Imagine feeling safer floating in pitch-black water than standing on dry land.For Meghann McDonald, the ocean isn't just a field site; it is a portal. While she technically holds the title of Executive Director at the Vermilion Sea Institute in Baja, she prefers to view herself as a bridge. Whether she is navigating the dusty roads of a fishing village or the complex emotions of a student panic-stricken by a snorkeling mask, Meghann's work is about dissolving the lines between "local" and "tourist," and between "fear" and "awe."In this conversation, Meghann takes us beyond the typical field study experience. She opens up about the "invisible barriers" that keep local children from the water in their own backyards and how she’s working to dismantle them. We also discuss the messy reality of caregiving, the power of "Blue Mind," and why true growth only happens when we are willing to get a little wet and a little uncomfortable.Tune in to hear:The "Scared vs. Awesome" Scale: A brilliant mental tool Meghann uses to help kids (and adults) navigate fear in real-time. The Legend of Puma: How a street dog became the most important emotional support staff member on Baja expeditions.The Mermaid Theory: Why some of us feel more human underwater, and the neuroscience that backs it up.A Special Note: Since the recording of this interview, Meghann's father, Lane McDonald, who we talk about in the episode, has passed away. Lane was a huge inspiration for the work done at VSI. Here is a link to the Institute’s tribute to his legacy (scroll down on page):https://vermilionseainstitute.org/mission-history/https://vermilionseainstitute.org/https://miamioh.edu/cas/graduate-studies/project-dragonfly/earth-expeditions/courses-landing-pages/baja.html