Set sail with us to the Galapagos Marine Reserve, one of the most unique and stunning environments on Earth! In this special episode featuring live interviews from the expedition at sea, you'll hear from an unlikely group connected by an immense love for the ocean. Olly, Henry, and Angus are three friends from the UK who took a sabatical year to sail their vessel Good Mood 4 from England to Australia. On the way, they made a stop in San Cristobal, Galapagos, to pick up researchers from Universidad San Francisco de Quito and the Galapagos Whale Shark Project. Katie, SeaKeepers' Science Liaison and podcast host, hopped on too, to document the scientific impact of the expedition. Though the elusive constellation of female whale sharks remained just out of reach, the team shared compelling insights about marine conservation efforts, the unique biodiversity of the region, and the ongoing quest to protect these gentle giants. We reconvened later with Dr. Alex Hearn to chat about the data collected during the week and reminisce about our time conducting shark research, snokeling with penguins and manta rays, and connecting with each other and nature under sunsets on the open sea. 

To support this ongoing research or host scientists from the Galapagos for another leg of their research, visit www.SeaKeepers.org.

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

As we enter a season of reflection and gratitude, we turn our attention to one of the most awe-inspiring and least explored parts of our planet: the seafloor. In this episode, we’re joined by Steve Hall and Helen Snaith from Seabed 2030, a global initiative working to map 100% of the world’s ocean floor by the year 2030. Together, we explore the importance of ocean mapping for science, conservation, climate resilience, and navigation—and how citizen scientists around the world are playing a surprising and essential role. From submarine canyons to undersea mountains, the ocean floor holds answers to questions we haven’t even thought to ask. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of exploration and give thanks for the ocean's vast, mysterious depths.

Every mission begins with a map. Explore the BathyGlobe at https://seabed2030.org/ and learn more about The International SeaKeepers Society at www.SeaKeepers.org. 

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

This October, we’re heading into the abyss—where the pressure is crushing, the darkness is complete, and the mysteries of the deep sea await. In this special spooky-season episode, we’re joined by bestselling author Susan Casey (The Underworld: Journeys to the Depths of the Ocean) and deep-sea explorer Dr. Dawn Wright, the first Black woman to dive to the deepest part of the ocean. Together, they unravel the science and storytelling behind deep ocean exploration, mapping the unknown, and the power of women in STEAM fields. From bioluminescent creatures to submarine descents that feel like science fiction, we explore how curiosity, courage, and communication drive conservation in one of Earth’s most extreme environments.

Journey with us beyond the limits of light and sound, where science meets the unknown, at www.seakeepers.org.

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

This month, we're celebrating one of the ocean’s most graceful and awe-inspiring creatures: the manta ray. Lydia Green from Manta Watch New Zealand joins us to explore the fascinating science of manta conservation and the deep cultural connections these gentle giants hold in communities across the Pacific. We’ll also hear a special feature from Melissa White, SeaKeepers’ South Pacific Director, who shares insights into the significance of mantas in the region and the growing efforts to protect them. From sacred symbolism to citizen science, discover how research, respect, and local knowledge are shaping the future of manta ray conservation.

Learn more and support ongoing manta research at www.SeaKeepers.org.

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In celebration of UN International Youth Day, this episode shines a light on the power of education and youth engagement in ocean conservation. We’re joined by Bailey Dawson from the Georgia Aquarium and Melissa Rowe, an educator who participated in the SeaKeepers' Georgia Aquarium Teacher Workshop. Together, they share how hands-on experiences and immersive programming are inspiring both teachers and students to become ocean advocates, starting right in the classroom. From lesson plans to field trips, and from student curiosity to real-world science, discover how the Georgia Aquarium is helping to foster the next generation of ocean stewards through education, creativity, and collaboration.

Learn more about how SeaKeepers and Georgia Aquarium are working together to make marine science more accessible and impactful at www.SeaKeepers.org.

In this special episode honoring Shark Awareness Day on July 14th, we explore how one of Hollywood’s most iconic films, Jaws, transformed global perceptions of sharks and unexpectedly sparked a wave of scientific curiosity and conservation. Joining us are Dr. Mike Heithaus, marine ecologist and Dean at Florida International University, and Wendy Benchley, renowned ocean advocate and partner of the late Peter Benchley, author of Jaws. Together, they reflect on the film’s cultural impact, how it influenced public fear, and how it ultimately inspired a generation of scientists and ocean advocates to better understand and protect these misunderstood predators. From fear to fascination, this episode dives into the evolution of shark science, media responsibility, and why changing the narrative around sharks is more important than ever.

Celebrate Shark Awareness Day early with us and learn more about shark conservation at www.SeaKeepers.org.

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Welcome back to SeaKeepers: Voyages of DISCOVERY! We're kicking off Season 2 with a deep dive into the power of marine protected areas (MPAs) in ocean conservation. Our guests, TJ Tate and Cortney Benson from the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation (NMSF), share how sanctuaries protect biodiversity, preserve cultural heritage, and support resilient coastal communities.

We also spotlight a collaborative expedition in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, where SeaKeepers, NMSF, and Sail & Explore teamed up to study microplastic pollution. Plus, hear how TJ and Katie are bringing ocean advocacy to Capitol Hill Ocean Wave (CHOW) in Washington, D.C. – the nation’s leading ocean policy event. Follow us on Instagram @SEAKEEPERS for exclusive coverage and live updates from CHOW!

Whether you're a returning listener or new to the voyage, this season opener sets the tone for a season full of insight, collaboration, and impact. Learn more about The International SeaKeepers Society at WWW.SEAKEEPERS.ORG.

Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In our concluding episode of "SeaKeepers: Voyages of DISCOVERY” Season 1, we cross oceans to focus on the initiatives of the SeaKeepers Asia chapter. Join us as we chat with Gail Tay and Julian Chang, two passionate members of the SeaKeepers Asia team, who share their experiences and insights into the region's unique marine conservation efforts. From innovative community engagement projects to collaborations with local academic experts and the yachting community, discover how SeaKeepers Asia is making waves in protecting and preserving marine ecosystems. Learn about the challenges they face, the successes they've achieved, and the future plans that drive their mission forward. Check back in soon for news on Season 2 of “SeaKeepers: Voyages of DISCOVERY”, where we’ll be exploring new waters, learning about fascinating marine creatures, and chatting with top experts working to save Earth’s most precious resources.

Join us as we delve into the intricate world of dolphin communication and the growing threat of underwater noise pollution. We explore how human activities, such as shipping and naval sonar, are disrupting the acoustic environment that dolphins rely on for navigation, hunting, and social interaction. Hear from leading marine biologists and acoustics experts who reveal the latest research on the impacts of noise pollution on dolphin populations and the innovative strategies being developed to mitigate these effects. This episode highlights the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and the urgent need for sustainable practices to ensure the survival of these intelligent and charismatic creatures. Together, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges dolphins face in our increasingly noisy oceans and what we can do to help protect them.

We’re trading the sunny shores of the Caribbean for the icy frontiers of Alaska to uncover the dramatic story of glacial recession. Join us as we sit down with Dr. Bruce Molnia, a seasoned scientist whose decades-long dedication has captured the breathtaking yet concerning retreat of Alaskan glaciers through stunning photographic evidence. Discover how these vital ice formations have changed over time and the profound implications of their decline for global sea levels and local ecosystems. We'll also hear from Captain Rodney Moll, whose expertise and dedication have made this vital research possible. Check out SeaKeepers' YouTube page after you listen to see Dr. Molnia's photographs through decades of glacial change. This episode is a poignant reminder of the urgent need for collective action to protect our planet's glacial giants and the marine life that depends on them.