Rising Tide: The Ocean Podcast
Podcast & Audio Production
Overseeing the Rising Tide: The Ocean Podcast's production, promotion, and strategic growth. Fluid Studios manages podcast development, from concept to publication, ensuring high-quality content that resonates with audiences. We develop social media and content marketing strategies to maximize engagement and reach. By collaborating with the Blue Frontier team, we maintain the podcast's vision, enhance its impact, and leverage analytics to optimize performance, drive continuous improvement, and contribute to the organization's dynamic leadership and innovative solutions.
A refreshing, irreverent dive into the lives, work, and explorations of today’s leading and diverse ocean voices.
Each half-hour episode co-hosted by David Helvarg of Blue Frontier and Vicki Nichols Goldstein of the Inland Ocean Coalition sails through lively discussions with our guests about marine life, culture, and critical issues affecting our rapidly changing seas. Informative, enlightening, and often humorous it is an invaluable resource for anyone passionate about understanding, enjoying, and protecting our salty blue world.
Sequoias of the Sea Hits the Big Screen
The latest episode of Rising Tide – The Ocean Podcast features a conversation with Natasha Benjamin of Blue Frontier and Ana Blanco of the International Ocean Film Festival, who recently took on the role of co-directors for Sequoias of the Sea. This 54-minute documentary explores the global crisis facing kelp forests, told through the experiences of the people of Fort Bragg, California—a former timber town on the state’s north coast.
The episode delves into the challenges of making the film, as well as the struggles Fort Bragg residents face in rebuilding a blue economy after the decline of their once-thriving kelp forests. Lost jobs, shifting cultural landscapes, and the disappearance of traditional ocean sports have left the community searching for new ways forward.
The discussion also highlights the film’s upcoming premiere at the International Ocean Film Festival in San Francisco on April 13, offering listeners insight into how they can see the film and learn more about the critical role of marine forests in ocean health.
From the Vents to the Arctic: Kathy Crane’s Ocean Explorations
This fall, NASA launched the Europa Clipper spaceship on a mission to Jupiter’s moon Europa to investigate the possibility of life in its subsurface ocean. In this episode of Rising Tide: The Ocean Podcast, Dr. Kathy Crane, a pioneering geologist, shares her experience mapping hydrothermal vents in the deep Pacific 45 years ago—an expedition that led to the discovery of chemosynthetic life, including giant clams and tubeworms. These deep-sea organisms offer clues about potential extraterrestrial life on Europa and beyond. Crane also reflects on her experiences as a woman in geology and her work exploring the Arctic seabed during the Cold War. This episode offers a compelling look at scientific discovery and the uncharted frontiers of both Earth and space. Dive in.
Nat Herz’s Northern Beat
In our latest episode of ‘Rising Tide the Ocean Podcast’ David and Vicki check in on Nat Herz founder and reporter at The Northern Journal. After covering our 49th state (including one third of America’s coastline) for the Alaska Daily News and Alaska Public Media Nick set out on his own in 2022, creating an Anchorage-based investigative newsletter covering issues from public lands and water, energy, mining, fisheries, politics, dog sled racing, everything the Alaskan public has a right to know. Now a must read in Alaska with stories picked up by every media outlet in the state the Northern Journal is what you might get if I.F. Stone met a polar bear. We ask Nat about his take on Alaska in the world, how things might change – or not cha nge – during Trump 2.0 and what it’s like covering a beat the size of Western Europe but mostly without roads. It’s a fascinating take on journalism on ‘The Last Frontier.’
Reef Report: The Unyielding Efforts for Ocean Health
In this episode of 'Rising Tide, the Ocean podcast,' hosts David Helvarg and Vicki Nichols Goldstein interview Melanie McField, the founder and director of Healthy Reefs for Healthy People. Melanie shares her journey from a childhood interest in marine biology to her work in Belize with the Peace Corps and beyond. She discusses the creation of the world's first science-based coral reef report card, which evaluates the health of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest coral reef system globally. Melanie details the indicators used in the report card, including coral cover, macro-algae levels, herbivorous fish populations, and commercial fish stocks. She explains the impact of COVID-19 on fishing practices and reef health, the importance of protected areas, and the ongoing challenges of pollution and nutrient management. The conversation also touches on global reef stressors like coral bleaching and disease and the potential for coral restoration projects. Melanie expresses cautious optimism for the future, citing the dedication of conservation groups and innovative restoration efforts.
Salmon State Revisited with Tim Bristol
Last fall David & Vicki spoke with a University of Alaska scientist about the state of salmon. Today they speak with Tim Bristol, the Director of ‘Salmon State’, a Juneau based environmental initiative to protect and sustain Alaska’s wild salmon that include some of the largest runs in the world. But all’s not well in their river and ocean home.
Working with Alaska Native people, commercial fishermen, river guides, and conservationists Salmon State aims to protect and restore these iconic fish. Tim talks about some of the challenges they face from mining, logging, offshore factory trawlers and of course climate change. He also discuss the mixed signals Alaska’s getting on how the new Trump administration may deal with salmon. So, join us for a fascinating and informative episode.
Richard Charter on Biden’s Historic Offshore Drilling Ban
In this episode of Rising Tide the Ocean Podcast David Helvarg & Vicki N. Goldstein talk with longtime anti-offshore drilling activist Richard Charter about one of President Biden’s last acts in office, his January 6th ban on future offshore oil and gas drilling permits along the entire Atlantic and Pacific coasts of the U.S. in the eastern Gulf of Mexico and the northern Bering Sea off Alaska.
Richard, whose been a leader of citizen campaigns to protect offshore waters for 48 years discusses the legal strength of Biden’s declaration, the difficulties incoming president Donald Trump will have in trying to reverse these protections and why he thinks this is one of the greatest environmental victories since the establishment of our national parks.
Whales, Waves, and Wonders
In this episode of the Rising Tide Ocean Podcast, David Helvarg presents a compilation of the most impactful ocean voices of 2024. The episode features commercial fisherman turned journalist Nick Raheim discussing sperm whales in Alaska, artist Rachel sharing her fish-inspired art, Dr. Sarah Frees Torres on her marine biology journey, author Shelby Van Pelt on her book's influence, Nancy Rabley on the Gulf’s dead zone, Rear Admiral Andy Sugimoto on Coast Guard missions, Sherry Goodman on clean energy's military advantages, Craig Foster on tracking underwater life, and Wendy Benchley on the revival of the Peter Benchley Ocean Awards. The episode highlights inspiring stories and calls for donations to support ocean conservation efforts.
Development Dreams to Parkland Reality
Sometimes you save the world 413 acres at a time. In our latest Rising Tide Ocean Podcast Vicki asks some probing questions of David and former guest Andres Soto, a longtime Richmond California activist, musician and radio host recently relocated to Portugal. They talk about their years of work helping to establish Point Molate Park which will soon be dedicated as the next green Jewel and public headland on San Francisco Bay.
They recount two decades of grassroots bottom-up organizing that helped save this unique habitat. In explaining how the Point Molate Alliance led a successful campaign to stop developer schemes for a mega-casino and luxury housing estate they discuss how other low-income waterfront communities can win similar climate justice battles while protecting biologically rich lands and waters.
Environmental & Cultural Shifts of the Pribilof Islands
Join David Helvarg and Natasha Benjamin on this episode of the Rising Tide Ocean Podcast as they discuss environmental changes and community impacts on St. Paul Island, the largest of the Pribilof Islands, with residents Destiny Bristol Kushin, a 20-year-old college student, and Zinaida Melovidov, her grandmother and lifelong island inhabitant. The conversation delves into the shifting climate patterns, the decline in local wildlife, the community's adaptation strategies, and the significant cultural heritage surrounding traditional fishing and hunting practices. With personal anecdotes and reflections, this episode paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced and the resilience shown by the residents of St. Paul.
From Jaws to Jubilation: The Legacy & Return of The Peter Benchley and the Ocean Awards
In this episode of the Rising Tide Ocean podcast, hosts David Helvarg and Vicki Nichols Goldstein discuss the Peter Benchley Ocean Awards revival with co-founder Wendy Benchley. After a hiatus since 2017, the awards are set to return on May 8, 2025, at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, backed by the National Aquarium Conservation Partnership.
Their conversation covers the origins of the awards, their impact on the ocean conservation community, and the excitement surrounding their return. Wendy Benchley shares memorable moments from past awards and highlights the importance of recognizing leaders in various sectors including policy, science, grassroots activism, and sustainable business.
David, Vicky, & Wendy also delve into Peter Benchley's legacy and his contribution to marine conservation.
Crisis to Conservation: The Inspiring Journey of Dune Lankard
In our latest episode of Rising Tide the Ocean Podcast David heads to Alaska to interview Dune Lankard, a member of the Eagle Clan of the Eyak tribal nation based in Cordova Alaska, on Prince Williams Sound. Dune talks about his life as a commercial fisherman and his response to the 1989 Exxon-Valdez oil spill, the largest U.S. environmental disaster till that time.
He talks about his founding of the Native Conservancy and its work with 32 tribes across Alaska, including protecting over a million acres of land. They also talk about his kelp farming to restore the ocean, traditional food sources and provide indigenous people and fishermen a chance to be part of a new regenerative food industry in a time of climate disruption. Check out Dune’s spiritual, practical and innovative ideas on the new Rising Tide Ocean podcast.
Sherri Goodman on Global Security in the 21st Century
On this episode of Rising Tide Vicki and David speak with Sherri Goodman of the International Military Council on Climate and Security. The former Pentagon Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Environmental Security is out with a new book, ‘Threat Multiplier – Climate, Military Leadership and the fight for global security.’ We’ll talk about the changing Arctic, the role of the Pentagon in preparing for disasters, the role of climate change in global wars and more. It’s a fascinating topic so join us with Sherri Goodman.
Resilience in Change: The Evolution of Salmon in Dynamic Landscapes with Peter Westley
In this episode of Rising Tide David and Natasha Benjamin delve into the fascinating resilience of Pacific salmon, creatures that have thrived in dynamic landscapes shaped by natural forces like volcanoes, earthquakes, and landslides with the University of Alaska’s Dr. Peter Westley. As the environment changes at unprecedented rates, including the rise of hatchery-supported fisheries, we discuss how these shifts impact salmon populations in places like Alaska and California. From dam removals and urbanization to climate change, salmon continue to adapt. Join us as we explore the complex web of factors shaping the future of these remarkable fish.
Navigating Ocean Policies with Mark Spaulding: Diving into the Impact of Elections on Our Waters
On the latest episode of Rising Tide the Ocean Podcast, David Helvarg and Vicki Nichols Goldstein talk with Mark Spalding, President of the Ocean Foundation and an expert on international law and policy about the Ocean and the Elections. They discuss how starkly different the two 2024 presidential candidates are when it comes to marine conservation and climate issues. Also why, after the hottest summer in human history, there’s been so little talk about climate and the environment.
Vicki and David also look at the record of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump and pull some recent quotes from each of them about coastal resiliency, living reefs, windmills and whales and fear of sharks. So, with just weeks to go to November 5th remember, dolphins can’t vote for the ocean so you’ll have to.
Exploring the Depths with Craig Foster: Oscar-Winning Filmmaker Dives into the Mysteries of the Great African Seaforest
On this episode of Rising Tide David Helvarg and Vicki Nichols Goldstein speak with Craig Foster, the Academy Award winning filmmaker of ‘My Octopus Teacher’ co-founder of the ‘Sea Change Project’ and the author of a new memoir – ‘Amphibious Soul.’
Craig discusses his daily underwater explorations of the ‘Great African Seaforest’ near his home and the importance of tracking skills in discovering life both within the kelp forest and on the shore. His encounters include not only octopuses and sharks, but seaweed eating ostriches and burrowing beach crabs. He also finds deep connections to our human past and our natural spirit. So, join us for some cold-water enlightenment.
Fishing with Whales in Alaska
On this Rising Tide the Ocean Podcast episode, David Helvarg & Natasha Benjamin speak with Nick Rahaim, a former commercial fisherman, journalist, researcher, and now public spokesman for NOAA (though speaking on his own behalf). We’ll talk about his adventures, from the shocks of squid fishing to confrontations between fishermen and whales in Alaska (including a shooting incident), to whale intelligence, whale depredation, and what it was like in Southwest Alaska when migrating salmon met “the blob.” So, join us for this fascinating episode.
Nick Rahaim is an award-winning writer, researcher, and former commercial fisherman. He's currently a Public Affairs Officer for NOAA Fisheries and is the Programs Director for volunteer-led Jiquilisco Bay Alliance, an organization that runs sustainable fishing, mangrove reforestation, and community empowerment projects in El Salvador. Nick's work in El Salvador began in 2022 when he moved to the country for a Fulbright fellowship, following his graduation from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies with a masters in International Environmental Policy. Nick was also a member of the 2018 Pulitzer Prize-winning team at the Press Democrat in Santa Rosa for their coverage of the devastating North Bay wildfires. As a commercial fisherman has worked in more than a dozen fisheries from Southern California to the Bering Sea, logging nearly 1,500 days at sea. Check out his blog at outside-in.org.
Sarah Frias-Torres & The Lord of the Rocks
On this episode of Rising Tide the Ocean Podcast, David & Vicki speak with Florida-based oceanographer and marine ecologist Dr. Sara Frias-Torres about her life and work, the tragic “death by a thousand cuts” of the Florida Keys coral reef tract, and the more hopeful recovery of the “Lord of the Rocks” the Goliath Grouper. Despite poaching and pollution, this massive, curious fish is making an impressive comeback from near extinction.
It’s essential for the ecosystem and inspiring for divers. Yet, it could be lost again if the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission doesn’t listen to scientists like Dr. Frias-Torres, who say their protection must be continued.
Free Paul Watson!
On Sunday, July 21, Ocean Activist and Sea Shepherd Society founder Paul Watson was arrested in Greenland, a territory of Denmark, on an Interpol warrant issued by Japan. Japan claims he damaged one of their commercial whaling ships while protesting and helping to end Japanese whaling off Antarctica. France, where Watson now lives, has asked Denmark not to extradite him.
We're replaying our October 2022 interview with Watson so you can better understand his perspective on fighting for whales, against pirate fishing, and for the health of the Ocean. In this episode, we talked to Captain Paul Watson, founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, about his background fighting for beavers, seals, and whales and the breakup with Sea Shepherd over its purpose and direction. We also discussed the Paul Watson Foundation, his biocentric religion, phytoplankton, and the planet, and how his time at the siege of Wounded Knee taught him not to fear for the future.
Ray Troll Spawns Art
On this episode of Rising Tide the Ocean Podcast we speak with world-famous Ketchikan Alaska-based artist and illustrator Ray Troll about his art – from Tee-shirts to wall murals - highlighting ocean life present and prehistoric (he summers in the ancient seas of Kansas). Combining the sensibilities of Gary Larson and Winslow Homer he can take your breath away with laughter and beauty. We discuss his 40-year retrospective art book – ‘Spawn Till You Die – The fin art of Ray Troll,” his upcoming documentary profile, his popular ‘Paleo Nerds Podcast’ and more. So, dive in.
Wildfires and Blue Mind
In this rebroadcast of episode 13 of the Rising Tide Ocean Podcast, we pay tribute to the late Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, a distinguished marine biologist, passionate water lover, and dedicated turtle advocate. In this poignant conversation, Dr. Nichols opened his heart and shared the deeply personal story of losing his home in the devastating California Lightning Complex fires. We felt his profound loss through his words and admired his unwavering resilience.
Dr. Nichols also enlightened us with his profound knowledge about the 'Blue Mind'—the captivating science of how being in and around water transforms our brains. His insights revealed the powerful, healing connection we share with water and how it brings us peace, joy, and solace, even in the face of unimaginable adversity.
This episode is a testament to Dr. Nichols' enduring spirit and lifelong commitment to understanding and protecting our oceans. It reminds us of the beauty and fragility of our natural world and the incredible strength of the human spirit. As we reflect on this moving episode, we honor Dr. Nichols' contributions and the powerful message of hope and healing he shared with us all.
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