The Conch podcast

On Season 6, Episode 5 of The Conch we're sharing the highlights from Season 5 with Julie, Cameron, and Crystal from Seaworthy! So what made this final season unforgettable? Women leading the charge in ocean tech, AI, and machine learning to tackle ghost gear and climate change Big conversations on climate justice in fisheries and social justice in seafood OYSTERS. Always oysters. A look at the green crab—one of the most infamous invasive species in the ocean And through it all, The Conch continued doing what it does best: sparking real connections across the seafood world Transcript Episode Guide 00:05 Julie and Cameron from SAGE and Crystal from Seaworthy continue the recap of five seasons of The Conch podcast! The fifth and final season of The Conch is featured in this episode 01:32 Women are leading the way in ocean tech, AI, and machine learning to address ghost gear and climate change 04:21 Climate justice in fisheries and social justice in food and seafood - trending discussions on this season of the podcast 08:54 This podcast is about growing existing and creating new connections, which we did with aplomb! 09:26 Oysters - yet another overarching theme of this season 10:24 The worst invasive species on the planet - green crabs 12:38 We're reeling in this podcast, but It's not goodbye, just goodbye for now. We learned a lot on this journey, so go check out In Hot Water, a Climate and Seafood podcast, to see how we bring what we've learned to our newest podcast venture Resources: A HUGE thank you to all the people who joined us in conversation on The Conch throughout the years. To the listeners, THANK YOU for tuning in. Never stop spreading the word - EAT SEAFOOD! Check out In Hot Water, a Climate and Seafood podcast to hear more from Julie, Cameron, and Crystal as we hit the road to explore key seafood producing regions across the U.S. and hear from people working at the intersections of fisheries, aquaculture, seafood, and conservation while grappling with the effects of the global climate crisis. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about seafood and the ocean.

Episode Guide 00:04 Julie and Cameron from SAGE and Crystal from Seaworthy continue the recap of five seasons of The Conch podcast! Here's your season four recap 03:16 SAGE's own Cameron and Becca are in the hot seat this season! 03:41 In this season, we touch on aquatic animal welfare - not a totally new topic in seafood 07:09 Where do we draw the line at sentience? 07:27 In season four, we heard from amazing women in seafood, like Tia Clark, Libby Davis, and Anoushka Conception, who introduced seaweed farming to our podcast 12:27 With the release of two papers, guest Katrina Nakamura offers a critical look at the Marine Stewardship Council's eco-labeling of tuna and shrimp farming in India 20:19 Final message: EAT SEAFOOD! Transcript Resources: Check out In Hot Water, a Climate and Seafood podcast to hear more from Julie, Cameron, and Crystal as we hit the road to explore key seafood producing regions across the U.S. and hear from people working at the intersections of fisheries, aquaculture, seafood, and conservation while grappling with the effects of the global climate crisis. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about seafood and the ocean.

This week in Season 6, Episode 3 of The Conch podcast, we're revisiting Season 3 in our ongoing recap series with Julie, Cameron, and Crystal from Seaworthy! From the rise of tinned fish queens to the grit of seafood entrepreneurs, we reflect on the stories and themes that made our third season unforgettable. What stood out? Women leading the tinned fish trend The power (and challenge) of family-founded businesses Why people stay committed to seafood despite the obstacles Plus, catch up on where some of our guests are now! Episode Transcript Episode Guide 00:05 Julie and Cameron from SAGE and Crystal from Seaworthy continue the recap of five seasons of The Conch podcast! Here's your season three recap 01:22 Women are leading the tinned fish craze 07:57 Another trend from this season - entrepreneurship! 09:59 Why our guests stay in the seafood sector 13:06 A missed opportunity? We didn't interview one person working on traceability in the seafood sector 15:04 Another interesting trend - a good portion of seafood businesses are family-founded, bringing its own set of challenges when trying to foster change in the industry 21:06 Updates on some of our fantastic guests from season three! Resources: Check out In Hot Water, a Climate and Seafood podcast to hear more from Julie, Cameron, and Crystal as we hit the road to explore key seafood producing regions across the U.S. and hear from people working at the intersections of fisheries, aquaculture, seafood, and conservation while grappling with the effects of the global climate crisis. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about seafood and the ocean.

In Season 6, Episode 2 of The Conch podcast, Julie, Cameron, and Crystal from Seaworthy keep the retrospective rolling, this time diving into the highlights of Season 2. From oyster deep-dives to the balance between wild and farmed seafood, this season was packed with big conversations. Tune in for reflections on seafood as a nutritious food source (not just a commodity), updates on favorite past guests, and plenty of oyster love along the way! Episode Transcript Episode Guide 00:05 SAGE's Julie and Cameron and Crystal from Seaworthy continue the recap of five seasons of The Conch podcast! This episode features season two 02:47 Finding the balance between farmed and wild seafood 06:38 This season featured several experts in oysters. If you love oysters, this season is for you! 08:05 The nutritional benefits of seafood and sea veggies - an often neglected benefit of seafood when it is viewed solely as a commodity, as opposed to a nutritious food source 13:43 Updates on some of our fantastic guests from season two! Resources: Check out In Hot Water, a Climate and Seafood podcast to hear more from Julie, Cameron, and Crystal as we hit the road to explore key seafood producing regions across the U.S. and hear from people working at the intersections of fisheries, aquaculture, seafood, and conservation while grappling with the effects of the global climate crisis. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about seafood and the ocean.

We're kicking things off with a special retrospective series—each episode will look back at a different season of the podcast, starting with the one that launched it all back in late 2021. In this first episode, Julie and Cameron from SAGE join Crystal from Seaworthy Experiences to revisit Season 1 and the big themes that shaped it, including: How racism fuels forced labor in seafood What's changed since the pandemic Gen Z's influence on the industry Plus, learn where some of our very first guests are now & hear more about 𝗜𝗡 𝗛𝗢𝗧 𝗪𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗥, the SAGE x Seaworthy podcast series on seafood and the climate crisis. Transcript Episode Guide :05 Julie and Cameron from SAGE and Crystal from Seaworthy are recapping the last five seasons of The Conch podcast! 01:06 The podcast launched in 2021 and the Covid-19 pandemic was a major theme in season one. 03:16 The root cause of forced labor in the seafood sector is racism. Has the seafood industry addressed racism since we started this podcast? 13:04 Cameron, our resident representative of Gen Z, shares what we should know about this up-and-coming generation. 17:30 Fantastic updates on some of our guests from season one! 22:22 Introducing In Hot Water, a Climate and Seafood podcast! First stop on this deep dive into seafood and the climate crisis is the Gulf of Mexico and the coastal bend of Texas. 23:55 We reminisce on the advice given by some of our guests of season one for anyone thinking about starting a career in the seafood sector Resources: Check out In Hot Water, a Climate and Seafood podcast to hear more from Julie, Cameron, and Crystal as we hit the road to explore key seafood producing regions across the U.S. and hear from people working at the intersections of fisheries, aquaculture, seafood, and conservation while grappling with the effects of the global climate crisis. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about seafood and the ocean.

The world needs to know about the power of ✨𝗦𝗘𝗔 𝗩𝗘𝗚𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘𝗦✨—how they're regeneratively farmed, why they improve our coastal communities, and ways they shine as a culinary ingredient. 🌊🌿 In fact, there's so much to unpack on this fascinating topic that we brought on seaweed advocate Rachelle Hacmac to The Conch podcast! Rachelle is one of the co-founders of Winter Waters, an amazing seaweed-centric regenerative seafare dining series that is leading this conversation in Oregon. So hear all about sea veggies—including 3 key things to know when you're looking to try them—by tuning into Season 5, Episode 10! Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:02 Rachelle Hacmac, one of three founders of Winter Waters, shares why they started this regenerative seafare dining series in Oregon 05:42 There's a great reason why Winter Waters happens in February, one of the gloomiest months of all! 09:00 Seaweed is the new kale 10:21 Seaweed cocktails? Yes please! 11:43 How has the public reacted to Winter Waters? 13:19 Can we farm seaweed in Oregon's waters? 14:55 A deep dive into the connection between wild kelp forests and purple sea urchins (and sunflower sea stars!) 14:57 Winter Waters is also a fundraising tool for deserving nonprofits 19:33 Rachelle shares about the other two co-founders of Winter Waters, Alanna Kieffer and Kristen Penner 21:33 Why are seaweeds having such a big moment and advice for what to do if you want to start a seaweed farm 25:47 The importance of social media for the seafood industry 27:42 Three things you should know when you want to learn more about eating and foraging seaweed 30:39 Amplifying the voices of women in the seafood industry has been an unexpected, yet incredible component of Winter Waters 33:01 Rachelle's sage advice for anyone wanting to break into the seaweed industry 34:04 Shout out to an amazing chef and friend of both SAGE and Winter Waters—Maylin Chavez! 35:23 What's next for Winter Waters?Resources: Find @winterwaterspnw on Instagram and give a follow and browse the website for more resources, including recipes!! Learn more about the cool efforts of Winter Waters' other founders: Alanna Kieffer and Shifting Tides NW and Kristen Penner and Oregon Coast Visitors Association

Have you heard of the GREEN CRAB, which is commonly known as the "world's worst invasive species?" Harming ecosystems and other species, the green crab is bad news—which makes it a great species to eat! But how do you go about building a culinary market for an invasive species, especially given that many Americans don't stray too far from seafoods like salmon, tuna, and shrimp? Here to tell us on Season 5, Episode 9 of The Conch podcast is Mary Parks, the amazing Executive Director of Greencrab.org. On a mission to spread awareness of its invasive impact, Mary's taking the green crab from "problem to plate"! Transcript Episode Guide :04 Introducing Mary Parks, Executive Director of Greencrab.org. 01:00 Mary introduces us to the invasive green crab, commonly referred to as the world's "worst invasive species" and shares how they ended up in U.S. waters 04:08 The havoc that green crabs cause to both ecosystems and other animals 06:55 Green crabs are new(ish) to the West Coast 08:37 Mary's journey to start Greencrab.org, a nonprofit that builds and supports culinary markets for European green crab, and also spreads awareness of their invasive impact 12:17 Venetians traditionally eat green crab roe. It's a delicacy! 15:03 Mary shares the fascinating process of molting a green crab 20;00 How to build a market for an invasive species 25:39 Let's say you're a seafood harvester finding a lot of green crab—what do you do? Mary walks us through some critical steps and how Greencrab.org can help 31:23 A lot of communities, like the Khmer, cook green crabs in a variety of exciting ways and it's important to acknowledge these communities in terms of their seafood buying power 35:17 Greencrab.org launched a harvester survey to understand who is participating in the fishery 36:43 Mary gives a shout-out to Isaura Buasier, an incredible chef who is redefining New England's seafood cuisine Resources: Check out Greencrab.org to learn about the invasive green crab and even which restaurants serve them on their menus! Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about stopping the spread of the world's worst invasive species, the green crab

How can we use AI and Machine Learning to support Arctic fishing, shipping, and kelp mariculture—all of which are increasingly impacted by the climate crisis? Leslie Canavera, a Yup'ik Alaska Native and the CEO of PolArctic, is here to tell us on the latest episode of The Conch podcast! The PolArctic team developed the "first AI model of its kind to treat Indigenous Knowledge and Western science as equals, training with and validating both knowledge systems." If you're curious to hear how merging these two knowledge bases has helped strengthen the seafood industry in the face of climate change, you won't want to miss Season 5, Episode 8. You'll learn more about their impactful work and Leslie's journey from getting her Master's in Business Administration to serving in the Air Force to launching PolArctic! Episode Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:20 Introducing Leslie Canavera, founder of PolArctic, a company focusing on the Arctic and the ocean, creating custom, cutting-edge artificial intelligence models for forecasting future environmental change 04:19 Artificial Intelligence (AI) is challenging established paradigms in the Arctic environment. Leslie tells us how 05:59 The Arctic is experiencing incredible challenges due to climate change 10:12 Ice patterns in the Arctic are changing due to climate change. Leslie walks us through the impacts on fisheries and communities 13:40 PolArctic recently successfully developed the first AI model to integrate Indigenous knowledge, scientific data, and remote sensing techniques to assess potential inshore fishery locations for an Arctic community 16:15 The Arctic is a data desert 19:00 Parachute science: when we're collecting data sets and asking people for their knowledge, it's important to use CARE and FAIR principles 20:54 Leslie's career journey from growing up in Anchorage, to becoming an AirForce officer, to launching a tech startup 26:25 Leslie's advice to eliminate inequality in the tech sector 30:45 Reshma Saujani said, "We're raising our girls to be perfect, and we're raising our boys to be brave." The challenges of VC funding and the importance of networking and sponsors 39:05 Leslie uplifts Jennifer Brown from Foraged and Found! Resources: Check out PolArctic's website to learn more about solutions to business and policy questions about the Arctic through the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques. Interested in understanding why women-founded companies generate outsized social and financial returns? Read this article. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about the importance of Indigenous knowledge in developing solutions to the greatest challenges facing our planet.

When does a rising tide NOT lift all boats? How does U.S. militarization affect the people of Palau and their seafood? And, in what ways do economic, racial, gender, and environmental justice issues intersect in the seafood sector? We've got some mighty BIG questions on the latest episode of The Conch, and THE person to answer them. On Season 5, Episode 7, Dr. Caroline Ferguson Irlanda shares her eye-opening insights and solutions to pressing challenges. A postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University and the host of Surf and Turf Podcast, Dr. Caroline and her podcast guests are FOUNTAINS of knowledge. Audio production and sound design by Crystal Sanders-Alvarado for Seaworthy Experiences. Episode Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:15 Why Dr. Caroline Ferguson Irlanda, postdoctoral researcher, started a podcast called Surf and Turf, a seafood justice podcast 02:18 Caroline shares her conversation with Amal Bouhabib of Southern Migrant Legal Services, who represented local Black workers in the Mississippi catfish sector in a legal case where white South African workers were paid more than the local workers 05:50 Season Two of Surf and Turf focused on the privatization of fisheries through consolidation of catch shares, private equity ownership of fisheries, and illegal privatization of waterfronts 10:04 Racial challenges and how they manifest in the U.S. seafood system 14:01 The question that motivates Caroline in her research: how are the harms and benefits of the seafood trade distributed in fishing communities? She explains a case study of the sea cucumber fishery in Palau 19:38 Caroline supports opposition to the U.S. militarization of Palau through her privilege and nonprofit, Allies for Micronesia Project 23:55 Caroline and coauthors prepared Practical Ways to Implement Gender Sensitive Fisheries and Aquaculture Research in the Pacific to provide researchers training on how to account for gender in research design 27:57 How to lessen inequalities in the seafood sector? Recognize that this is a very gender-diverse sector and women are EVERYWHERE! 29:54 The driving questions behind Caroline's decision to earn her PhD 33:02 Caroline's advice for anyone considering a PhD 35:19 Caroline shouts out some of her incredible podcast guests: feini yin, Queen Quet, Nico Gomez Andujar, Kirby Page and Radhika Sharma Resources: Check out the incredible Surf and Turf podcast to learn more about the complex and often overlooked issues of access, equity, and justice in the U.S. seafood system Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about the extraordinary people working to create a more just seafood system that nourishes us all.

In what ways do food and social justice intersect? How can we help formerly incarcerated youth develop culinary careers? And why is it so important to support independent Black farmers? Chef Mavis-Jay Sanders digs into all of this with us on Season 5, Episode 6 of The Conch podcast! A James Beard Award-Winning chef, culinarian, and storyteller, Chef Mavis-Jay has supported so many wonderful organizations and initiatives, from the Coalition for Sustainable Aquaculture to the Queer Food Foundation (which she helped found!). So join us for this episode where she shares her insights on how to help communities celebrate the joys of life and humanity through food. Episode Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:03 Chasing childhood food memories: Mavis-Jay's journey to becoming an award-winning chef 07:48 Letting go of the ego of food: what accolades meant and now mean to Chef Mavis-Jay 12:50 The importance of investing in formerly incarcerated youth 17:06 How to celebrate Black American heritage through food 20:41 Reclaiming Black food sovereignty: what does success look like? 24:01 Supporting Black farmers: where food comes from is as much of an issue of justice and equity as food access is 27:47 Why Chef Mavis-Jay supports the Coalition for Sustainable Aquaculture 31:05 The Queer Food Foundation whose mission is to be a nationwide resource and platform for LGBTQIA+ individuals in food and promote, protect, and fund queer food spaces 35:02 What the restaurant industry can do to lessen inequalities 38:15 Chef shouts out Katherine Miller, whose book At the Table: The Chef's Guide to Advocacy, will positively support generations of chefs Resources: Find @chefmavisjay on Instagram and give a follow! Check the links for more information about the Queer Food Foundation, the Coalition for Sustainable Aquaculture, and Black Farmer Fund. Explore Katherine Miller's book, At the Table: The Chef's Guide to Advocacy

Whether you're brand new to OYSTERS or have been obsessed for years, you'll want to get to know Kamille Harris and Jasmine Hardy, the amazing gals behind @BlackGirlsNOysters! The Atlanta-based duo joins us on Season 5, Episode 5 of The Conch podcast to talk about the power of social media in spreading seafood positivity with the world, why representation matters, and their oyster eating tips. Episode Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:46 The first taste of an oyster leads to an obsession. Introducing Jasmine Hardy and Kamille Harris, aka @blackgirlsnoysters on Instagram! 04:27 There's an interesting theory as to what type of oyster you might prefer… 06:23 An impulsive decision leads to the birth of a new oyster appreciation Instagram account and exciting opportunities 09:09 Hot tip: Jasmine and Kamille share their favorite oyster festival in the U.S. 11:07 Social media: mixed feelings about this powerful tool that can be good and not-so-good 14:58 Tips for ordering oysters 18:40 The inside scoop: Future plans for @blackgirlsnoysters 21:13 Breaking down stereotypes: The importance of representation in the oyster community 24:02 Jasmine and Kamille have exciting careers outside of their robust social media presence 27:47 Patriarchy in aquaculture is pervasive. Let's teach young women that this is a viable career choice! 33:20 Jasmine shouts out Maurice and Sapelo Solo, whose mission is to preserve the culture, heritage, and traditions of the Saltwater Geechee people on Sapelo Island Resources: Check out @blackgirlsnoysters on Instagram and give them a follow! Find out more information about Oyster South and Landlocked, the favorite oyster festival of Jasmine and Kamille. Recommend this episode to one person who loves oysters!

Imagine a thriving, climate-resilient fishing industry that's fueled by renewable energy and led by people in boots—not suits. That's the vision and reality that Sarah Schumann, Campaign Director of the Fishery Friendly Climate Action Campaign, is working so hard to create. As a fisher and climate activist, Sarah knows firsthand how climate change affects fisheries and the livelihoods of the people behind them, along with the feasible, scalable solutions needed. On Season 5, Episode 4 of The Conch podcast, we chat with her about everything from the multifaceted challenges of offshore wind development to solarizing the seafood industry. Audio Production and Sound Design by Crystal Sanders-Alvarado for Seaworthy Experiences. Episode Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:36 Sarah Schumann, Campaign Director of the Fishery Friendly Climate Action Campaign shares insights into the climate effects currently faced by fishermen across the U.S. 05:47 The Fishery Friendly Climate Action Campaign has four workstreams: Fishery Friendly Climate Action Planning Accelerating a Transition to a Low Carbon Fishing Fleet Solarizing the Seafood Industry Fishery-sensitive Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal 12:16 What is needed to put the fishing industry in the driver's seat of its own energy transition 17:26 Conversations are key to understanding the gaps in education surrounding decarbonizing fishing fleets 19:13 Supporting climate action led by people in boots, not people in suits (you can get this slogan on a t-shirt to support the campaign!) 22:45 The multifaceted challenges to offshore wind development and the need to co-optimize multiple federal 30X30 goals that are seemingly contradictory 27:41 How to join the Fishery Friendly Climate Action Campaign 29:11 Sarah's journey from environmentalist to fisher to climate activist 36:58 Maintaining hope in the face of the climate crisis 37:47 Sarah shouts out a Texan HERO and An Unreasonable Woman: A True Story of Shrimpers, Politicos, Polluters, and the Fight for Seadrift, Texas Resources: Check out FisheryFriendlyClimateAction.org for more on the campaign that provides members of the U.S. commercial fishing community with tools, networking, knowledge, and opportunities to advance robust climate solutions that work for U.S. fisheries and not at their expense. Grab some swag to support this effort! Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about how fishers are leading the way towards a climate resilient future.

Lost and entangled fishing gear is a big problem for BOTH people in the fishing industry and ocean ecosystems. Thankfully, Kortney Opshaug and her team at Blue Ocean Gear are creating high-tech buoys that can track gear in the marine environment! Join us on Season 5, Episode 3 of The Conch podcast to hear all about Kortney's amazing startup journey and how she's making commercial fishing and aquaculture farms more sustainable with these exciting innovations in tech. Audio production and sound design by Crystal Sanders-Alvarado for Seaworthy Experiences. Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:37 Introducing Kortney Opshaug, the CEO and founder of Blue Ocean Gear, a startup company that provides technology solutions for IOT tracking on the ocean, creating high-tech buoys that can detect and locate gear in the marine environment, including lost or entangled fishing gear 04:41 What exactly are these high-tech buoys and how and where can they be deployed? 08:58 Consulting with fishers and researchers to build the best buoy based on their needs 10:47 The link between Blue Ocean Gear's buoys and sustainability 13:53 These buoys also help detect gear theft, an increasingly common occurrence 17:13 The challenges of designing technology for use on the open ocean and why creating strong partnerships is critical 21:08 Kortney shares her impressions of COP28, the international climate conference which she recently attended in the United Arab Emirates 24:00 Leaping from aerospace engineering to creating tech solutions for commercial fishermen, Kortney is using technology to bridge the gap between conservation and the fishing industry 25:35 The challenges of finding venture capital for a woman-led startup 29:38 Kortney's advice to those in the tech sector thinking about a career in ocean tech 31:45 Kortney uplifts her colleagues at Blue Ocean Gear! 32:31 These buoys also are a solution to improving animal welfare! Kortney explains how Resources: Check out Blue Ocean Gear for more info on these intelligent, connected buoys and supporting hardware that monitor the location and movement of any type of gear along with local conditions. Interested in learning more about the results of COP28? Find five takeaways here. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about the intersection of ocean and tech.

Imagine working on behalf of the ENTIRE fishing industry across America—from Alaska to Maine, from Hawaii to Florida. As the Executive Director of The Seafood Harvesters of America, that's exactly what Leigh Habegger does! On Season 5, Episode 2 of The Conch podcast, Leigh shares all about her critical work, including how the climate crisis is currently affecting fisheries and harvesters in REAL time, along with ways we can support them in the face of these challenges. Audio Production and Sound Design by Crystal Sanders-Alvarado for Seaworthy Experiences. Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:03 Introducing Leigh Habegger, the Executive Director of Seafood Harvesters of America, a first-of-its kind national commercial fishing association with members ranging from Alaska to Maine, Hawaii to Florida 03:39 Leigh shares some of the challenges facing members of the Association 05:43 A big challenge is convincing Congress and the federal government to invest in our fisheries now in order to be prepared for what's coming (HINT: the effects of climate change are happening NOW and will continue to exacerbate until we start to address them.) 07:39 What are the effects of climate change that the Association's members are experiencing in real time? 19:45 A big part of Leigh's job is working the halls of Congress and supporting legislation to benefit fisheries and their future. The Magnuson-Stevens Act is an important piece of legislation—Leigh explains what it is and why it's so important 25:43 As the new U.S. Commercial Industry Commissioner for ICCAT, the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas, Leigh recounts her experience representing the U.S. at her first multilateral meeting where countries vie for a fair share of quota to fish the several species of Atlantic tuna 35:03 In order to lessen inequalities in the sector, we need more awareness. 38:24 The importance of a strong network in your career cannot be overstated! The Bloom, SAGE's networking community, is a great source to find like-minded people with similar challenges. 41:02 Leigh's advice to young people thinking about a career in the seafood sector 44:20 Leigh uplifts Hannah Heimbuch - fisher, advocate, and teacher to the one and only Martha Stewart on how to fillet a salmon! Resources Check out Seafood Harvesters of America, where fishermen unite for the future. Interested in learning more about how quotas for Atlantic Tunas are allocated? Read more about ICCAT here. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about who is advocating for the U.S. commercial fisheries sector happens in the halls of Congress.

How do MICROPLASTICS wind up in marine life? What's their effect on ocean ecosystems and our seafood? And most importantly, what can we do to prevent this from happening? Thankfully, Taja Sims-Harper is here to tell us! A doctoral student in the marine biology department at the University of New Hampshire, Taja's research focuses on microplastics in oysters and other marine life. She also recently became an oyster farmer and is a proud member of Minorities in Aquaculture. Catch all of her insights and hear about her amazing journey on Season 5, Episode 1 of The Conch podcast! Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:20 Introducing Taja Sims-Harper, a doctoral student in the marine biology department at the University of New Hampshire studying microplastics in marine life AND seafood! 03:39 Taja shares her lab work and research with oysters and microplastics (BTW, it's stinky!) 13:30 Taja's journey - from Oakland to Maine; from Oregon to New Hampshire 18:20 How Taja became a fan, member, and intern of Minorities in Aquaculture and what this incredible organization means to her 24:30 Not only a doctoral student, but also an oyster farmer! Taja walks us through what it takes to farm oysters 28:41 How climate change factors into Taja's research on microplastics and as an oyster farmer 31:51 Favorite seafood memories usually involve oysters and Taja's favorite is no different 33:39 Taja shares some hurdles she's faced as a woman and as a Black woman throughout her career in academia and aquaculture, along with how she overcame them! Resources: Check out this report on microplastics in seafood and the implications for human health Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about how microplastics are affecting our seafood.

You've likely heard of "calling out" someone—or letting them know that their behavior is harmful and unacceptable. But a tool that can drive real change is "calling someone IN" or engaging them in a deeper discussion where there's room for questions and introspection. So join us on Season 4, Episode 10 of The Conch podcast to hear Cameron Moore, SAGE's Program Assistant, share on how we can call people IN to create an inclusive, diverse seafood sector built for everyone! And if you're curious about… How do you petition a National Park to make ranger outfits more equitable for people of all genders? What's it like being vegan while working in the seafood industry? How do factors like gender and race play into getting social license to farm seaweed or oysters? …You'll LOVE this episode! Episode Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:00 Introducing Cameron Moore, SAGE's Program Assistant! 03:11 There was more than just vibes that interested Cameron in the position at SAGE. 06:07 Why would a vegan promote the consumption of seafood? 10:04 Cameron shares their efforts to build a more inclusive national parks system (Hint: ranger uniforms are problematic.) 17:04 Climate change is not gender neutral: the intricate connections between gender and climate change 22;29 Cameron shares an important "what the heck" moment they've experienced since entering the workforce. 29:10 Have you joined The Bloom? Here's what to expect! 33:59 What do dismantling the patriarchy and fighting white supremacy have to do with the seafood industry? 38:46 Two pieces of advice for industry newcomers. 41:50 Not one, but two shoutouts! 43:37 Cameron's favorite seafood memory involves a seafood that brings people together. Resources: Explore SAGE's programs! Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about why Gen Z is our future!

Show Notes Seafood can change hands many times before it reaches your plate, which is why we need to know about all of the hard-working people who helped get it there. Were they treated fairly? Are their rights being respected and upheld? Here to help answer those questions and ensure human rights due diligence across seafood supply chains is Dr. Katrina Nakamura, CEO of Sustainability Incubator! Tune into Season 4, Episode 9 to catch Katrina's insights into what's happening with forced labor in seafood, how women influence FIPs (aka: Fishery Improvement Projects), and how her diverse career path led her to the current impactful work she does today. Audio production and sound design by Crystal Sanders-Alvarado for Seaworthy. Episode Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:34 Dr. Katrina Nakamura walks us through human rights due diligence in seafood: what it is and why it's critical. 04:42 There are two types of human rights abuses in seafood supply chains—Katrina breaks it down. 10:13 Labor is the first place the seafood industry squeezes to cut costs of production. Why are low labor costs becoming less of an asset and quickly becoming a liability? 15:50: Katrina shares the two things that are driving improvements in labor conditions in the sector. 18:26 As one of the biggest investments a company has, labor means a lot. The Labor Safe Screen is a human rights due diligence service that shows the value the company places on the relationships with their labor force. 24:09 You've uncovered abuses in your supply chains, how do you respond? 29:42 The time for forced labor in seafood supply chains is up as human rights due diligence is becoming mandatory globally. 33:25 The victim, the villain, and the hero: Is there a correlation between environmental sustainability and forced labor? 37:50 Fishery Improvement Projects: what are they and how are women influencing fisheries progress in innovative, yet invisible, ways? 46:22 Sidelining women and upholding barriers to leadership have very real consequences that hold back progress. 49:32 Katrina uplifts an angel! Resources: Explore Katrina's work on human rights due diligence at Sustainability Incubator. Read more from the International Labor Organization (ILO) about forced labor and human trafficking in fisheries. Recommend this episode to one person who is concerned about forced labor in seafood production.

It's crystal clear — seaweed aquaculture is a big part of our future! Seafood harvesters are looking for ways to diversify in the age of climate change, and farming seaweed is the path for many of them. But it certainly has its challenges, as any crop does, and MUST be done sustainably, safely, and ethically. That's where Anoushka Concepcion is helping pave the way. As an associate extension educator with Connecticut Sea Grant, a faculty member at UConn's Department of Cooperative Extension, and a Board Member of Minorities in Aquaculture, Anoushka works intensively with aquaculture communities, sparking conversations so everyone can work together to have seaweed benefit ALL—including growers, regulators, consumers, and kids! Hear all about why aquaculture as an essential path to feeding people high quality proteins with low costs so people of all ages and income levels can access health and wellness on Season 4, Episode 8 of The Conch podcast! Audio Production and Sound Design by Crystal Sanders-Alvarado for Seaworthy. Episode Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 01:18 Anoushka Concepcion of Connecticut Sea Grant explains why 34 Sea Grant programs are the boots on the ground for the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 05:00 What does the term "extension" mean and why is it important in aquaculture? 07:13 Seaweed aquaculture: the challenges are universal but not unique to Connecticut. 11:15 The National Seaweed Hub - what it is and why it's needed 16:09 How are public health concerns and food safety with seaweed aquaculture addressed? 19:51 How a fascination with marine science and a trip to visit family in India launched Anoushka's career supporting seaweed farming and aquaculture production. 22:04 A personal experience with the dangers of kelp farming. 24:35 How climate change affects shellfish and seaweed farms in Connecticut. 29:36 Representation is everything. Why Anoushka joined the board of Minorities in Aquaculture (MIA). 34:07 What the seafood industry must do to support women in the sector. 37:28 Anouska's advice to address inequality in the sector - keep talking about the issues until you find people with the solutions. They're out there! 43:07 Shout out to the absolute bedrock of civilization! Resources: Read more about Anouska's work at Connecticut Sea Grant and the National Seaweed Hub. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about the multiple benefits of seaweed aquaculture!

From serving in the Peace Corps in Madagascar to serving oysters in Maine, Libby Davis is changing the industry paradigm with her mobile raw-bar and event catering company. She and her team source world-class Maine oysters directly from a network of WOMEN-owned sea farms, delivering a best-in-class raw-bar experience while increasing visibility for underrepresented groups on the working waterfront. To hear Libby's story and how she's amplifying diverse voices in aquaculture, tune into Season 4, Episode 7 of The Conch podcast. Episode Transcript Episode Guide :00 Intro 00:52 Introducing Lady Shuckers, Libby Davis' mobile raw bar and event catering company on a mission to support women in aquaculture and increase representation and visibility of underrepresented groups on the waterfront. 02:42 Why oysters? 10:52 Lady Shuckers was born from a "desire to shuck oysters and change the industry paradigm"—with their support, women are making big strides in Maine's oyster farming sector. 14:56 What are the barriers to women's participation in aquaculture? 18:40 Libby served three years in the Peace Corps in Madagascar in 2015. She recently returned for another exchange and paints a picture of development work in one of the poorest countries in the world. 30:31 Inequality is everywhere. How can we address inequality in the seafood sector? (Hint, think about how you spend your dollars!) 36:49 Libby gave a LOT of shoutouts in this episode: Amanda Moeser of Lanes Island Oysters Emily Selinger of Emily's Oysters John Herrigel of Maine Island Oyster Company Jaclyn Robidoux Alicia Gaiero of Nauti Sisters Sea Farm The Briny Babe Andy Rogers of Jolie Rogers Traveling Raw Bar Sister Island Oysters Resources: Read more about Lady Shuckers mobile raw bar and catering company, the farms they source from, and grab some merch at ladyshuckers.com Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about why women are drawn to the close-knit oyster farming community in Maine.

Ever wondered… Why do algal blooms harm fisheries? How can we get a ​​farmer in Iowa to care about a shellfish farmer in the Gulf of Mexico? What it takes to design aquaponics for SPACE? InspectorPlanet—aka Dr. Tracy Fanara—is here to answer all of these questions and more! Besides her very cool role at NOAA where she dives into earth systems and investigates what's needed to protect human lives and livelihoods from environmental threats, Dr. Tracy has appeared on everything from the Science Channel's Mythbusters to Nat Geo's SharkFest. Hear all about this real life superhero on Season 4, Episode 6 of The Conch podcast! Episode Transcript Episode Guide: :00 Intro 01:11 Dr. Tracy Fanara combined sustainability and innovation to invent her alter ego, Inspector Planet, and to give young girls a role model in STEM. 02:12 At the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Tracy works with academia, industry, other government agencies, and scientists to protect lives and livelihoods. 03:11 A primer on coastal and ocean modeling and why it's important. 07:44 There are no local problems. 10:01 Tracy, once called the "Face of Red Tide," earned that moniker because of her holistic approach to understanding it and communicating important information to people affected by it. 12:39 What is the difference between toxic red tide algae and popular sea vegetables, like kelp and seaweeds, that we are starting to see on store shelves? 15:58 Recognizing that everything we do affects everyone else, how do we get a farmer in Iowa to care about a shellfish farmer in the Gulf of Mexico? 19:48 Tracy was THIS close to going to space on the SpaceX journey to the moon. What happened? 20:20 Why space, when Earth? The answer might surprise you. 25:13 If you're not ok with failing, you're not ok with winning. Why failure excites Tracy. 29:29 Change is coming—more women are advancing into careers in STEM. 32:59 Tracy is a climate optimist and everyone can play a role in addressing the climate crisis. 36:06 Shoutouts! Resources: Read more about Dr. Tracy and why everything is connected at Inspector Planet. Recommend this episode to one person who is curious about the incredible potential of aquaponics in space!