What if the best conditioner you’ve ever used also happened to be plastic free? In this episode, we talk with Kate and Jonathan Assaraf, the minds behind Dip– “an environmental awareness company parading around as a damn good personal care company.”

Dip isn’t just selling shampoo bars that last forever. They’re challenging what we’ve come to expect from capitalism, consumerism, and convenience culture. We talk about how they’re rewriting the rules (no paid influencers, no Amazon, no growth-for-growth’s-sake) and redefining what success looks like in business.

We also dive into the complexities of speaking to sustainability-minded customers and reaching beyond that niche, why they’ve chosen to invest in real-world refill stores over algorithm-chasing online strategies, and how they’re carving out space for small, local retail in a culture addicted to big-box convenience.

If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to build a brand that prioritizes people and planet without sacrificing performance, this episode is your blueprint.

There’s a crisis unfolding at the U.S.-Mexico border that’s polluting beaches, harming marine life, and putting communities at risk…and it’s been happening for decades. In this episode, we chat with Patrick McDonough, an attorney from San Diego Coastkeeper, to break down the transboundary pollution crisis in Tijuana and Imperial Beach.

Millions of gallons of untreated sewage and toxic runoff are flowing from Tijuana into Southern California’s waterways, closing beaches, threatening public health, and devastating ecosystems. It’s a massive, complicated issue, but we’re unpacking it in a way that makes sense so you can walk away with a clear understanding of what’s going on, why it matters, and what’s being done to fix it.

We also dive into how Coastkeeper and other organizations are fighting back through litigation, pushing governing bodies to take real action and be held accountable. If you care about clean water, healthy oceans, and the communities that depend on them, this is an issue you need to know about.

🌊 Connect with San Diego Coastkeeper: @sd_coastkeeper

What happens when you follow your curiosity, trust the signs, and take the leap into something bigger than yourself? In this episode, I sit down with Brooke Buckman, the founder of a streetwear brand that doesn’t just look good…it does good, actively fighting ocean plastic with every purchase. Planet Deep Blue aims to be more than just clothing, from pulling plastic pollution out of the ocean to raising awareness about sustainability in the fashion industry.

Brooke has built a business that proves you can blend purpose with profit. We talk about what it takes to launch a mission-driven brand, the power of social media in spreading the message, and why being a “blue business” means doing business for the ocean, not at its expense. If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your passions into something that makes a difference, this episode is for you.

Planet Deep Blue: 

🩵www.planetdeepblue.org
🩵https://www.instagram.com/planetdeepblue/

Fast fashion is fueling ocean pollution. Are we even talking about that? Every time we wash synthetic fabrics tiny microplastic fibers shed into our waterways, harming marine life and ending up in our food. Add in the constant cycle of overconsumption, and it’s clear: the fashion industry is wreaking havoc on the planet. Why is fast fashion so hard to resist? What can we actually do about it?

In this episode we’re talking about the hidden environmental cost of our clothes, why brands make it so easy to overconsume, and simple, realistic ways to reduce our impact. From rethinking who we follow online to natural fibers to cutting back on Amazon… RESIST THE HAULS 

🛍️How to spot greenwashing and shop more sustainably with Krystalynn Gier - https://open.spotify.com/episode/7HELaBbnI05A37lKVhdc1R?si=8O0L44n3SB-8NB28G9yGuw

🛍️Brand ratings: https://goodonyou.eco/

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show! 

Thank you for listening 🩵

Welcome back! I wish it was under better circumstances. If you feel super in the dark on what’s going on with NOAA and the federal government, this is a very basic overview that I hope sheds some light. What is NOAA, and what does it actually even do? How are the layoffs at the National Park Service & NOAA potentially going to impact our daily lives? What does he mean, “drill baby drill”!?!? These are the topics we’re talking about today. Let me know what you think and what I missed. 

P.S. Sorry I’ve been MIA I miss talking about the ocean so much

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show! 

Thank you for listening 🩵

🐚 “How Americans will feel the impact of Trump’s weather forecasting layoffs”

🐚 “Trump officials fire 800 employees at weather forecasting and oceans agency”

🐚 “How Trump's 'drill, baby, drill' pledge is affecting other countries”

🐚 Ayana Elizabeth Johnson article- “What Now for Climate Under Trump? Act Locally”

🐚 5calls activation

🐚 Jainey Bavishi’s Linkedin Post

I always wondered what it takes to become someone that works with sharks for a living. Kaitlyn McQueeney walks us through her career journey, from studying marine biology to getting on boats and to finally becoming the wildlife guide and shark conservationist that she is today. We chat about what it’s like being responsible for the safety of others in the ocean with sharks around, and the most common misconceptions about the animals. If you've ever wondered how people get into the field of dive tourism, you'll like this episode!

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show! 

Thank you for listening 🩵

Today we chat with Hannah Tizedes, microplastics artist and founder of The Cleanup Club, about her journey from growing up by the Great Lakes to starting a nonprofit dedicated to tackling plastic pollution. She shares her experience organizing creative, social, and fun trash cleanups and offers practical advice for anyone wanting to make a difference, whether you’re near the ocean, a lake, or completely landlocked. Tune in to learn how you can turn eco-action into a community effort and help tackle the plastic crisis in your own backyard.

Connect with Hannah & The Cleanup Club 🚮🪩

@hannahtizedes @the.cleanup.club

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show! 

Thank you for listening 🩵

Everyone deserves the chance to learn how to swim and feel safe around water, no matter their background or age! Plenty of adults don’t know how to swim, yet there aren’t enough resources specifically designed to help adults learn water safety and confidence. Jacqueline Wong founded The Swim Project to do just that– to help those uneasy around water, or those with a past traumatic experience in the ocean, overcome their fears and gain swimming skills. Learning to swim presents challenges for people from multicultural backgrounds and access to learning resources is not equal among communities.  We talk about the logistical aspects of learning how to swim as an adult, what to look for in a teaching program, and some of Jacqueline's experiences helping others gain the skills needed to access the beauty of the ocean.

Connect with Jacqui & The Swim Project on Instagram: @theswimproject

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show! 

Thank you for listening 🩵

Ever wondered how to turn your passion for wildlife into a career in conservation photography? In this episode, we sit down with Kaush Subramaniam, wildlife biologist and photographer, to explore what it takes to break into the field of conservation biology and filmmaking. Kaushiik shares his own journey, from studying conservation science to working with organizations like the BBC, and how he uses photography as a powerful tool to drive awareness and action. We chat about his love for whales, the impact of storytelling on conservation efforts, and what it takes to navigate this competitive and rewarding career path. If you’re dreaming of a career in wildlife conservation or looking for practical tips on how to make a difference with your camera, this episode is full of advice for you. 

Connect with Kaush on Instagram & check out some of his work! @kaushman 📷

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show!

🦀Use code oceanstories for $$ off your order at Stream2Sea for products guaranteed safe for you & the ocean.

What does holiday shopping have to do with ocean conservation? So much more than you might think! In this episode, we’re diving into how you can vote with your dollar to support the planet this holiday season. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are great for deals, but 80% of those purchases end up in landfills. That’s bad news blues for marine life, coastal ecosystems, and our climate. But we have the power to make change here people!! RESIST THE TJ MAXX CHECKOUT LINE AISLE

We’ll chat about how to support small, sustainable brands instead of falling for the tricks of big corporations that just want to take your money. Plus, I’m sharing thrift store gift ideas (perfect for the budget and the planet!) and offering some tangible tips to resist the pull of overconsumption.

It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being thoughtful. Let’s make this holiday season one that uplifts our communities, supports our oceans, and gives back to the planet. 

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show! 

🦀Use code oceanstories for $$ off your order at Stream2Sea for products guaranteed safe for you & the ocean.

🐠Sustainable outdoor clothing from Alder apparel 15% off with code oceanstories.

What’s at stake for ocean conservation during the Trump years? Knowledge is power so let’s get engaged! In this episode, I’m broadly outlining the biggest threats, the policies to watch, and what we can do to protect our seas. What exactly do we have to worry about when it comes to the new administration and ocean conservation policy? Plus, it’s not all bad news. I’ve rounded up some positive updates from my favorite organizations and inspiring wins for our oceans! Because amongst the bad there are always people doing good 🩵

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show! 

🦀Use code oceanstories for $$ off your order at Stream2Sea for products guaranteed safe for you & the ocean.

🐠Sustainable outdoor clothing from Alder apparel 15% off with code oceanstories.

This is a quick recap of random thoughts on my brain plus a little celebration of the past year of Ocean Stories. Our first episode was released on Nov. 7th, 2023. Plus some thoughts on how I'm dealing with election anxiety and trying to trust in the good of humanity no matter what (lol).

Thank you for listening 🩵

In this episode we’re talking with Laura– Australian surfer, ocean lover, and the creative mind behind Froth Nugget, a small surf brand featuring her quirky and relatable illustrations. Laura’s content captures the ups and downs of surfing, reminding us that everyone, even seasoned surfers, wipe out sometimes, worry about sharks, and keep paddling out because of a true love for the ocean. We chat about how her passion for both surfing and beer collided with her artistic talents to inspire Froth Nugget. Laura also tells us the story of her worst injury and the challenges of getting back on the board. She’s as funny and down-to-earth as her art; this convo will definitely leave you smiling.

🏄‍♀️https://www.instagram.com/froth_nugget/

🏄‍♀️frothnugget.com 

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show! 

🦀Use code oceanstories for $$ off your order at Stream2Sea for products guaranteed safe for you & the ocean.

Ever wondered how to break into marine biology or find your place in the field? In this episode we sit down with Madysson (Marine Science with Mady on Instagram) to talk about what it really takes to study marine biology and make it your career. Mady shares bits from her own journey– balancing full-time work, school, and family life– while offering insights on how to figure out if this path is for you. We dive into the ups and downs of studying marine science, how to carve out your niche in conservation, and tips for making it all work. If you’re curious about marine biology or searching for some real talk about finding your way, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.

🐠For more on this, join Mady’s community: https://www.instagram.com/marinesciencewithmady/

🐠Follow along on Instagram for more content and BTS: https://www.instagram.com/oceanstories_podcast/

Tourism and travel are closely linked with ocean health, as more than 50% of tourism happens in coastal or marine ecosystems. What about the carbon emissions from planes? Long haul vs. short haul flights? Reef safer bodycare and waste reduction? This episode is me just talking your ear off about traveling with some ideas about sustainable travel sprinkled in. Some topics are so complex, and I don’t have all the answers, but I do have my own personal experience which I hope inspires at the very least some intriguing reflections for you. And I hope I don't sound too preachy, this was my second or third time recording some of this episode thanks to technical difficulties. If I missed anything major let me know on instagram (@oceanstories_podcast). 

🐠 Really great article that inspired this episode: https://shorturl.at/fYlMZ

🐠 Donate to Hurricane Helene relief efforts: https://www.nvoad.org/current-members/

Building a surf brand from the ground up is no easy feat, especially when you’re navigating the complex world of sustainable business. In episode 33 of Ocean Stories, we chat with Manon Erné, founder of SunDaze Surf, about how she’s started a surf brand. From finding the right production house to making decisions about the brand’s identity, Manon shares about balancing creativity, sustainability, and practicality. We explore the challenges of marketing, building a community online, and how to find sustainable compromises in the manufacturing world. It’s all about staying true to your vision while being mindful of your environmental impact. Manon’s experience is full of valuable lessons.

🌊 Check out SunDaze Surf and connect with Manon: @sundaze_surf

📹 Scripp's Pier underwater live cam: https://coollab.ucsd.edu/pierviz/

Let me know your thoughts on this episode or what you’d love to hear more of next 🌞

Our consumption patterns and habits create MAJOR impacts on our oceans– from ocean plastics to harmful ingredients to unethical labor to false advertising, it’s ROUGH out there in terms of shopping sustainably. We all want to support brands that are good for the Earth, but it isn’t always easy or clear. Krystalynn Gier creates tools and content to help taking care of our mind, body, and planet an easier task. She’s the host of the Mind Body Planet podcast, and believes taking care of yourself and the Earth go hand in hand. An expert in greenwashing, she’s all about making sustainability simple, fun, and actually sustainable for everyone. 

We talk about how to shop better, vote with our dollars, keep hope alive, and actually afford sustainable options. It’s one of my favorite conversations we’ve had on Ocean Stories and hits on so many intersectional & important topics that impact our blue planet 🌎

🛍️ Krystalynn has a ton of useful resources to learn more– 

IG: @krystalynngier

Youtube: @krystalynngier

Podcast: Mind, Body, Planet (look out for a swap episode coming soon!) 

If you’re reading this, let’s connect 🐚🤝

No seriously, it keeps me going & means everything to hear your feedback, let me know what how-to we should do next 🐠

Breathwork + zen + relaxation = freediving? Luciana is a holistic freediving instructor and competitor who shares some of her best freediving tips for beginners. We talk about her experience learning how to freedive and her connection to the sea. Plus I ask just a few of my burning questions about how to hold my breath underwater for just a bit longer. 

Luciana’s IG: @lucianaloveslife

(what a cute username)

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show! 

👇 What how-to should we do next? 

Today we're chatting with content creator and surfer Jade Darmaswangsa about her journey learning to surf. Jade's experience began with a simple surf lesson and quickly spiraled into her conquering one of the most infamous surf breaks in the world. She'll share her ups and downs, tips for beginners, and what kept her motivated along the way.

👀 more how-to surfing episodes to come 👀

🏄‍♀️ Jade’s YT & IG: @jadedarmawangsa

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show! 

Irene is a marine biologist working in the Maldives to protect, preserve, and grow new corals. I don’t think I’ve ever met someone that loves corals as much as Irene– she explains their importance to the Maldives, the impact of tourism, and how Save the Beach Maldives is working with local communities to reduce plastic pollution. How does bleaching actually work? What even is it? I loved hearing how delicately and carefully they have to transfer the baby corals to new areas when new resorts or highways are being built.

We’re taking a short break from weekly episodes but will be back ASAP with a new look and new Ocean Stories to share🫶

🐚 If you liked this episode, please follow & leave a review to support the show!