89 episodes

Dr. David Ebert and Andrew Lewin interview shark scientists and conservationists to find out the steps they took that lead them to study and work with sharks. Interviews include stories of field shenanigans; career choices and advice; and, the science of sharks that may or may not include great white sharks...mostly not.

Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation Speak Up For Blue

    • Science
    • 4.5 • 10 Ratings

Dr. David Ebert and Andrew Lewin interview shark scientists and conservationists to find out the steps they took that lead them to study and work with sharks. Interviews include stories of field shenanigans; career choices and advice; and, the science of sharks that may or may not include great white sharks...mostly not.

    Confessions of a Shark Cardiologist: Writing the Book - Sharkpedia

    Confessions of a Shark Cardiologist: Writing the Book - Sharkpedia

    On this bonus episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, Dr. Daniel C. Abel discusses his book "Sharkpedia," a must-have for shark enthusiasts of all kinds. The episode delves into the evolution of shark science, public interest in sharks fueled by movies like Jaws, and the diverse fields within shark research. Join hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert as they explore the world of sharks and take your knowledge Beyond Jaws.
    Get the book:
    Prince University Press: https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691252612/sharkpedia
    Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sharkpedia-Brief-Compendium-Shark-Pedia/dp/0691252610/ref=sr_1_1?crid=373H5Y7THYAZB&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.082floLBDowycF-ZWlPqfXiHtXzK2Q-xS24eCjw0gF7M5oJIRFIK5ASx31umutVaF78IkskVy6o4GaRWnIvhsEgywdK9XkYppT6f3SwtdZoqUhNONUG7sHBqzzCLzlBw.bQZ-y9KSj3mpvjCdtVn-YY95nj43pK3EsPt0WIvwgdU&dib_tag=se&keywords=Sharkpedia&qid=1719882184&s=books&sprefix=sharkpedia%2Cstripbooks-intl-ship%2C162&sr=1-1
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    Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
    Website: https://saveourseas.com/
    Dave: 
    Website: https://www.lostsharkguy.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q1J9Q5

    Andrew:
    Website: https://www.speakupforblue.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/37g5WkG
    Dr. Daniel C. Abel shared valuable insights into his book "Sharkpedia" during a podcast episode. He mentioned that the inspiration for writing the book came from an invitation from Princeton University Press to create a comprehensive resource defining sharks in various aspects such as history, evolution, physiology, ecology, and diversity. The book aimed to cater to a wide audience, from shark enthusiasts to students and educators, providing accessible information about sharks.
    Dr. Abel highlighted the collaborative process of working with illustrator Mark Dando, emphasizing the importance of having a skilled illustrator to complement the text. He mentioned that the illustrations by Marc Dando played a significant role in shaping the framework of the book and making it visually engaging for readers. The book's format, with concise and informative entries on different shark-related topics, was designed to be easily digestible for a broad audience, including young readers and those new to shark science.
    Furthermore, Dr. Abel discussed the challenges and rewards of writing books, mentioning the labor of love involved in the process. He shared his experiences with previous books and the importance of having a publisher like Princeton University Press to work with. Additionally, he expressed his future plans for writing fiction, including a shark-related murder mystery, showcasing his versatility as an author.
    Overall, Dr. Abel's discussion provided valuable insights into the inspiration, collaborative process, and audience considerations involved in writing "Sharkpedia." The book serves as a valuable resource for those interested in sharks, offering a blend of scientific information and engaging illustrations to educate and inspire readers about these fascinating creatures.
    The podcast episode featuring Dr. Daniel C. Abel discussing his book, "Sharkpedia," highlighted the crucial role that books play in providing accurate information about sharks and dispelling myths, especially in the age of social media and misinformation. "Sharkpedia" was described as a comprehensive resource that covers various aspects of shark biology, ecology, and behavior in an accessible and easy-to-digest format. The book serves as a valuable tool for shark enthusiasts, educators, and students to learn more about these fascinating creatures.
    In the discussion, it was emphasized that books like "Sharkpedia" offer a reliable source of information that can counteract the spread of misinformation often found on social media platforms. With the proliferation of sensationalized content and myths surrounding sharks, having a well-researched and expertly written book becomes essential in educat

    • 43 min
    Behind the Scenes: A Filmmaker's Journey in Wildlife Documentaries

    Behind the Scenes: A Filmmaker's Journey in Wildlife Documentaries

    On this episode of Beyond Jaws, filmmaker Jesse Colaizzi shares his journey from producer to wildlife filmmaker focusing on sharks. Discover the evolution of shark science, fueled by public interest and movies like Jaws. Join hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert as they dive into the world of shark filmmaking with insights from experts in the field.
    Connect with us:
    Website: https://bit.ly/37TMqeK
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/3eorwXZ
    Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
    Website: https://saveourseas.com/
    Dave: 
    Website: https://www.lostsharkguy.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q1J9Q5

    Andrew:
    Website: https://www.speakupforblue.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/37g5WkG
    Jesse Khaleesi's Filmmaking Process Jesse Colaizzi's unique approach to filmmaking involves starting by creating a soundtrack based on the mood and tone of the project. This initial step serves as a guiding force throughout his editing process, shaping the narrative and enhancing the overall impact of the final product.
    In a podcast episode, Jesse explains that he meticulously builds a soundtrack for each project by curating a playlist of real music that aligns with the desired vibe of the show. He spends days or even weeks on this process, selecting tracks that evoke specific emotions and set the tone for the storytelling. By immersing himself in the music, Jesse establishes a creative anchor that influences his perspective on the project.
    Furthermore, Jesse's use of music extends beyond setting the mood. He leverages the soundtrack as a storytelling tool, allowing the music to enhance key scenes, evoke certain emotions, and create a cohesive narrative flow. Whether it's a scene featuring majestic animals, a night dive off the coast, or an exploration of a lagoon, Jesse's curated soundtrack plays a pivotal role in shaping the viewer's experience.
    By integrating music into his editing process, Jesse not only enhances the visual elements of the project but also adds depth and dimension to the storytelling. His attention to detail and thoughtful selection of music demonstrate his commitment to creating a compelling and immersive viewing experience for the audience. Through his innovative approach to filmmaking, Jesse Khaleesi showcases the power of music as a storytelling tool in the world of wildlife documentaries.
    Music plays a crucial role in Jesse's editing process, serving as a powerful tool to enhance scenes and elevate the storytelling in the documentaries he works on. Jesse's background in music appreciation and his keen understanding of how music can influence emotions and mood are evident in his approach to editing. He meticulously curates soundtracks for each project, often starting with a playlist of real music to set the tone and mood for the documentary.
    By creating a soundtrack in advance, Jesse immerses himself in the desired atmosphere of the film even before the footage is edited. This allows him to envision how different tracks will complement specific scenes and evoke certain emotions in the audience. Whether it's a majestic animal encounter, a serene underwater moment, or a thrilling chase sequence, Jesse carefully selects music that enhances the visual storytelling and engages the viewers on a deeper level.
    Jesse's process of using music as a creative anchor not only guides his editing decisions but also influences the overall narrative arc of the documentaries he works on. The choice of music can set the pace, build tension, convey emotions, and create a cohesive flow throughout the film. By incorporating a variety of music genres and styles, Jesse ensures that each project has a unique and dynamic soundtrack that resonates with the audience.
    Furthermore, Jesse's ability to connect music with the visuals on screen demonstrates his skill in translating the essence of a scene into a musical language. Whether it's a lighthearted moment, a poignant revelation, or an action-packed sequence, the right music can enhance the im

    • 1 hr 10 min
    The Multi-Faceted Role of a Global Communications Manager

    The Multi-Faceted Role of a Global Communications Manager

    On this episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert are joined by Jade Schultz, the global communications manager for Save Our Seas. They dive into the world of science communication, focusing on engaging audiences with sharks and ocean species. From the historical perception of sharks to the diverse fields within shark science, listeners will gain insight into the fascinating work of shark scientists.
    Tune in to explore the efforts to demystify these incredible creatures and expand your knowledge Beyond Jaws.
    Website: https://saveourseas.com/
    Connect with us:
    Website: https://bit.ly/37TMqeK
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    Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
    Website: https://saveourseas.com/
    Dave: 
    Website: https://www.lostsharkguy.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q1J9Q5

    Andrew:
    Website: https://www.speakupforblue.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/37g5WkG
    Social media has significantly impacted the field of science communication, as discussed in the podcast episode featuring Jade Schultz, the global communications manager for Save Our Seas. She emphasized how social media has revolutionized the way organizations interact with their audience, democratizing science communication and enabling individuals to establish themselves by consistently sharing content.
    Jade highlighted the vital role of social media in education and awareness, particularly in marine conservation. She noted that social media has provided a platform for researchers and organizations to share their work and stories with a broader audience, allowing for diverse voices to be heard and information to be disseminated in a more accessible and engaging manner.
    Moreover, Jade delved into the challenges and opportunities of managing social media for a conservation organization like Save Our Seas. She stressed the importance of fact-checking, relevance, and engaging content to effectively convey the organization's message. Social media management involves not only posting photos and captions but also planning events, engaging with sponsors, sending out press releases, and coordinating various initiatives within the organization.
    The podcast episode illustrated how social media has transformed science communication, expanding outreach, engagement, and impact in marine conservation. The evolution of social media has empowered organizations like Save Our Seas to reach a wider audience, educate the public, and inspire action towards ocean conservation.
    The role of a communications manager in marine conservation organizations is multifaceted, extending beyond social media management. As discussed in the podcast, Jade Schultz highlighted the diverse tasks involved in her position, such as event planning, sponsorships, and press releases.
    Additionally, the communications manager plays a crucial role in maintaining consistency in messaging and upholding high standards for the organization. Save Our Seas has set a high standard, and the communications manager ensures this standard is maintained across all communication channels.
    Engaging with the audience through storytelling and sharing success stories is essential for inspiring behavior change and raising awareness about conservation issues. Jade Schultz emphasized the power of storytelling in science communication, bridging the gap between researchers and the public. By sharing engaging content like the Super Sharks campaign, Save Our Seas aims to make conservation messaging more accessible and inspiring.
    Furthermore, Jade discussed the challenges researchers face in communicating their work and highlighted the opportunities presented by social media and digital platforms. By utilizing various communication channels, organizations can effectively convey conservation messages and reach a wider audience.
    Overall, the episode underscored the importance of engaging with the audience through storytelling and sharing success stories to drive behavior change and raise

    • 1 hr 9 min
    Exploring the Unknown: Shark Research in Angola with Ana Lucia Furtado Soares

    Exploring the Unknown: Shark Research in Angola with Ana Lucia Furtado Soares

    Today's episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast delves into the Angola Project, a groundbreaking research initiative in Africa led by Ana Lucia Furtado Soares. Discover how this project started, Lucia's connections to Angola, and the research findings since 2016. Join hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert as they explore the fascinating world of shark science with a rising star in the field. Tune in to gain valuable insights Beyond Jaws.
    Website: https://www.sharkproject.org/en/protection/angola-elasmo-project/
    Connect with us:
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    Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
    Website: https://saveourseas.com/
    Dave: 
    Website: https://www.lostsharkguy.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q1J9Q5

    Andrew:
    Website: https://www.speakupforblue.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/37g5WkG
    Building trust and relationships with local communities is crucial for successful research in new areas. Ana Lucia Furtado Soares, a researcher working in Angola, emphasized the importance of gaining the trust of the local communities she works with. She highlighted the significance of understanding the culture, respecting the elders, and being patient with the local customs and way of working, especially when conducting research on sharks and rays, which are vital to the livelihoods of the fishers in the area.
    Ana Lucia shared her experiences of working with the fishers in Angola, where she had to establish trust and rapport with them to collect data and conduct her research. Despite facing challenges such as uncertainty, lack of resources like electricity and water, and the need to adapt to the local conditions, she stressed the importance of being patient, understanding the local dynamics, and building relationships based on mutual respect and trust.
    Her experiences in Angola underscore the importance of building strong relationships with local communities when conducting research in new areas. By gaining the trust of the community members, researchers can access valuable information, collaborate effectively, and ensure the success of their research projects. This trust is not only essential for conducting research but also for promoting conservation efforts and sustainable practices in the area.
    In the episode, Ana Lucia Furtado Soares shares her experiences conducting research in Angola, a remote location with limited resources and infrastructure. One of the key challenges she highlights is the uncertainty that comes with working in such areas. From unreliable electricity to lack of access to basic facilities like generators, researchers like Lucia must learn to adapt to these challenges.
    Lucia emphasizes the importance of patience and adaptability when working in remote locations. She mentions the need to dance to the local rhythm and be prepared for unexpected situations, such as waiting for hours for people to show up for a presentation or dealing with the absence of basic amenities like electricity.
    Moreover, Lucia's experiences in Angola demonstrate the necessity of being open to different cultural practices and communication barriers. While Portuguese is the primary language in Angola, there are variations in dialects and language proficiency among the local population. Researchers must be willing to navigate these linguistic differences and find ways to effectively communicate with the community members.
    Overall, the episode highlights the significance of embracing uncertainty and being adaptable when conducting research in remote locations. Researchers like Lucia demonstrate that success in such environments requires a willingness to face challenges head-on, be patient, and adjust to the unique circumstances of each location.
    Appreciating and being grateful for the resources and facilities available in more developed countries is crucial when working in areas with limited resources. In the podcast episode, Ana Lucia Furtado Soares shared her experiences working in Angol

    • 1 hr 12 min
    Protecting Sharks and Empowering Communities: The Story of Fundacion Mundo Azul

    Protecting Sharks and Empowering Communities: The Story of Fundacion Mundo Azul

    Tune in to the Beyond Jaws podcast to hear Elisa Areano, Executive Director of Fundacion Mundo Azul, share her inspiring journey from real estate developer to shark conservationist. Discover how her foundation protects sharks and collaborates with fishing communities to reduce shark fishing impacts. Join host Andrew Lewin and co-host Dr. David Ebert as they delve into Elisa's innovative approach to shark conservation on this engaging episode.
    Website: https://fundacionmundoazul.com/home-english/
    Connect with us:
    Website: https://bit.ly/37TMqeK
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/3eorwXZ
    Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
    Website: https://saveourseas.com/
    Dave: 
    Website: https://www.lostsharkguy.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q1J9Q5

    Andrew:
    Website: https://www.speakupforblue.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/37g5WkG
    Elisa Areno's organization, Fundacion Mundo Azul, is dedicated to protecting sharks and rays in Guatemala and Central America through a multifaceted approach. The foundation collaborates closely with fishing communities to address their challenges while promoting conservation efforts. One key initiative of Fundacion Mundo Azul is providing scholarships to fishers' families, offering educational opportunities for children and young adults in these communities. By supporting education, the foundation aims to create alternative livelihoods for community members, reducing the reliance on shark fishing as a primary income source.
    Fundacion Mundo Azul also works with the government to advocate for conservation laws and regulations that safeguard sharks and rays. Elisa and her team focus on developing non-detrimental findings (NDFs) and legal acquisition findings to ensure that the exported organisms are from Guatemala and comply with international agreements like CITES. By engaging with the government, the foundation plays a crucial role in shaping policies that promote sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation.
    Moreover, Fundacion Mundo Azul conducts scientific studies to track sharks and identify critical habitats, such as nursery areas for hammerhead sharks. By collecting data and monitoring shark populations, the organization contributes valuable information to conservation efforts and aids in the management of marine species. Through these initiatives, Fundacion Mundo Azul strives to protect the marine biodiversity of Guatemala and Central America while fostering collaboration among stakeholders for sustainable ocean management.
    The organization collaborates closely with shark fishers in Guatemala to gather valuable data on shark landings. They train fishers in shark identification techniques, such as measuring sharks, taking pictures, and identifying different species. This collaboration not only helps in collecting important scientific data but also empowers fishers by involving them in conservation efforts.
    In addition to data collection and training, Fundacion Mundo Azul provides alternative livelihood opportunities for shark fishers, such as producing honey from mangrove trees. This project offers a sustainable income source for fishers and promotes conservation by utilizing the resources of the mangrove ecosystem in a beneficial way.
    Elisa Areno's team includes scientists like Omar Santana and Juan Carlos Perez, who play crucial roles in engaging and educating fishing communities, conducting scientific studies on sharks, and advocating for conservation policies. Omar Santana, with extensive experience working with great whites, brought his expertise to Guatemala to assist Elisa in her shark conservation efforts. Despite the limited biology careers in Guatemala, Elisa wisely sought experts like Omar Santana abroad, who possess the necessary knowledge and experience to contribute to the conservation projects.
    Additionally, Juan Carlos Perez is another scientist working with Elisa to cultivate a new generation of shark scientists. Together, they focus on educating and training young

    • 1 hr 7 min
    The Field Guide to Sharks, Rays, and Chimeras: A Deep Dive with Dr. David Ebert

    The Field Guide to Sharks, Rays, and Chimeras: A Deep Dive with Dr. David Ebert

    Today's episode features Dr. David Ebert discussing a newly released field guide to sharks, rays, and chimaeras of the East Coast of North America, co-authored with Marc Dando. The guide is designed to help identify these fascinating elasmobranch species. The episode delves into the history of shark science, from early misconceptions to the growth of the field and public interest, spurred by movies like Jaws. Listen to the Beyond Jaws podcast to learn more about shark scientists and their work beyond the realm of fear-inducing stereotypes.
    Get the Book: 
    Princeton Press: https://press.princeton.edu/books/paperback/9780691206387/field-guide-to-sharks-rays-and-chimaeras-of-the-east-coast-of-north
    Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Field-Sharks-Chimaeras-America-Nature/dp/0691206384/ref=tmm_other_meta_binding_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.MmtU26mctpU9oWs-iHl9Oj7FGgLdNJzoulVHs62dOh2_fzvZ_UqdqfBkud3kCCOpmbRmRbb-exgC1Bu4aw-WP6SYwaft5XW_tG56eGut-OwIeT2yp0NsFsKoiET6sjxK9Qt8UgKp4gV_6BBsp-BW4kHysQIZOjIIlukgLC7eOPhgboEc5YJJl541THpp5EsvJXrDB-qqisgMbgKnyLRECqn8om4D7EPVTkw8OazzXEA._WUlFKrLA1d7-iyRi0U0PZ1u_1RwhlZ7nAIuWVxKUak&qid=1714956730&sr=1-5
    Connect with us:
    Website: https://bit.ly/37TMqeK
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/3eorwXZ
    Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
    Website: https://saveourseas.com/
    Dave: 
    Website: https://www.lostsharkguy.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q1J9Q5

    Andrew:
    Website: https://www.speakupforblue.com/
    Instagram: https://bit.ly/37g5WkG
    "The Field Guide to Sharks, Rays, and Chimeras of the East Coast of North America" is a newly released book authored by Dr. David Ebert and Marc Dando. This book serves as a valuable resource for a wide range of individuals, including shark enthusiasts, scientists, and students. Here are some key points highlighting the value of this book:
    Identification and Information: The book is designed to help readers identify and learn about the various species of sharks, rays, and chimeras found along the East Coast of North America, including the Gulf of Mexico. With detailed illustrations by Marc Dando, the book provides comprehensive information on 173 species, including their morphology, distribution, and behavior.
    Educational Tool: For students interested in marine biology, conservation, or shark science, this field guide offers a wealth of information. It can be used as a reference for research projects, species identification, and understanding the diversity of elasmobranchs in the region.
    Conservation and Management: The book is not only informative but also serves as a tool for conservation and management efforts. By providing detailed information on lesser-known species and highlighting the importance of studying flat sharks, ghost sharks, and other less charismatic species, the book encourages a broader perspective on shark conservation.
    Inspiration for Future Research: Dr. David Ebert's passion for lost sharks and deep-sea species is evident in the book. His dedication to studying and documenting these lesser-known species can inspire future scientists to explore new avenues of research within the field of elasmobranch biology.
    Practical Use: The book is not just for academics but also for enthusiasts and beachgoers. It can be a handy guide for those interested in shark watching, beachcombing, or even diving. The detailed descriptions, illustrations, and identification keys make it accessible to a wide audience.
    In conclusion, "The Field Guide to Sharks, Rays, and Chimeras of the East Coast of North America" is a valuable resource that bridges the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding of elasmobranch species. It serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in learning more about the diverse marine life along the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico.
    Dr. David Ebert's passion for sharks and dedication to sharing knowledge through books has inspired many individuals to pursue further studies in shark s

    • 39 min

Customer Reviews

4.5 out of 5
10 Ratings

10 Ratings

fugyij ,

This podcast was such a perfect find!

I am not sure how I stumbled across this podcast, but this is the rare-to-find elasmobranch podcast I’ve been missing! I am a PhD student at JCU working on coastal stingrays, and it’s so great there is a podcast spreading our love of sharks and rays to a broader audience. I particularly liked the interview with Dr. Chin!

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