356 - Abandoned, Lost, and Discarded Fishing Gear in Lake Victoria with Drake Ssempijja

This week, Conrad had the pleasure of interviewing two of his coworkers within the Marine Fisheries Ecology Program at Mississippi State University — Danielle McAree and Alena Anderson — to discuss their journeys through fisheries science, their graduate research on shark life history, and the unique experiences that shaped their careers. Together, they explored how hands-on fieldwork, data analysis, and mentorship within the program have deepened their understanding of fisheries science.  Takeaway message: Never say never. Contact them: Marine Fisheries Ecology Program website  Email: - Danielle: [email protected]  - Alena: [email protected]    #sharkbiology #acoustictelemetry #fisheriesscience #marinebiology    “Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).”        

This week, Alanna chats with Fisheries Podcast guest Drake Ssempijja. Drake was born and raised in Uganda along Lake Victoria and is now a PhD student at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth School for Marine Science and Technology. Drake shares all about his work on Abandoned, Lost, and Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG) in Lake Victoria, some of the most important regional fisheries, and discusses his dream plans for expanding his work around Africa. We hope you enjoy this episode!   Main point: "Sustainability is a shared responsibility."   Contact Drake by email at [email protected]   Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).    

This week, Preston visits with SCDNR's head malacologist, Ericah Beason. They with the basics of describing what freshwater mussels are and why they are important, before covering the diversity of mussels and the threats they face. Along the way, they cover the formation of SCDNR's freshwater mussels program and how it has evolved since its creation. We hope that you enjoy this episode!   Main point: "The environment is not infinite!" Ericah's email address: [email protected]   Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

This week, Elise (IG: @elisemobranchii) sits down with Dr. Marcus Reamer, a Lecturer at the University of Miami, to discuss his research on communication and media as an invisible and influential force in conservation. They focus on his exploration of the media portrayal of North Atlantic right whale conservation and conflicts between various stakeholder groups, namely, New England American lobster fishers. They also discuss how media is often overlooked as a tool for conservation, and how the language used to frame and shape our perceptions of complex conservation topics can either help or hinder efforts to create equitable solutions. His research asks us to take a step back from science and policy jargon, and instead explore the story being told around these complexities, and who is telling them, in order to better address conservation challenges. Main Point: Conservation IS political. Find Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mreamer/ Find Marcus' work here: https://www.marcusreamer.com/ Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries- podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity that those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

On this weeks episode Brendan is joined by Jason Barnucz, an Aquatic Science Biologist with Fisheries and Oceans Canada's Ontario Mussel team to talk about his 30+ years of field work in Ontario working on species at risk, including his work on the ground floor of the then new Species at Risk program in 2002!  We also dive into Jason's new work with the mussel team, why he made the switch, a bit of his work with anglers in Ontario, and him and his sons recent forays into kayak fishing around Ontario. Check out his fishing photos and angling promotion work here: https://www.instagram.com/jason_barnucz/  You can find the Canadian Mussel team's work here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadian_mussels/  Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).  

What happens beneath the surface of an aquatic system is a world most people never see—but today’s guest is bringing that hidden world to life through science and underwater storytelling. This week, Conrad had the pleasure of speaking with PhD candidate and underwater videographer Graham Montague from the University of Vermont in a fascinating conversation that explored both his research and creative work beneath the surface. The discussion dove into the intersection of science communication and underwater videography, highlighting how visual storytelling can help audiences connect more deeply with aquatic ecosystems and the life they support. He also shared insights into his current research as a PhD candidate at the University of Vermont, where he studies landlocked Atlantic salmon in Lake Champlain; the perspectives he has gained throughout his career; and the unique challenges and rewards of filming underwater. Blending passion, science, and artistry, this episode offers a compelling look at how creative media can inspire curiosity, understanding, and conservation of aquatic life. Takeaway: Follow and pursue what you're most passionate about in life.  Email: [email protected] Affiliation: PhD Candidate, University of Vermont Instagram: @grammontague_ “Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).”  

On this episode of The Fisheries Podcast, Alanna hosts Dr. Gretchen McCarthy. The two discuss experiences in oyster farming, Gretchen's time as a Hollings Scholar and her bivalve research, as well as her more recent work into kelp forests, polyculture systems, and the importance of ecosystems for major bivalve resources in New Zealand. We hope you enjoy this episode!   Main point: "People are a part of their biosphere."   Find Gretchen on LinkedIn, ResearchGate, or Facebook.   Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).    

This week, Preston sits down with Dr. Mike Allen from the University of Florida. They discuss just a few of the myriad research projects that Mike has been a part of since getting to Florida, from the impacts of Lionfish to Florida Bass and from forward facing sonar to his current work with snook in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico. We hope that you enjoy this episode!   Main point: "Make your job fun!" Mike's email address: [email protected]   Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).

On this weeks episode Brendan is joined by the delightful minds behind Gonzo Ichthyology, A Graphic Guide. This incredibly illustrated book is a hilarious guide on the history of ichthyology, anatomy, behaviour, evolution, and achievements of fish.  This book is absolutely filled with illustrations that are both surreal and hilarious.  This book is both engaging, funny, and absolutely Gonzo.  We dive into what exactly gonzo means and how this passion project came to be, how humor can be used to communicate science, and how the fish in the book would feel about how they've been talked about.  From Marlon Brando to Peron parody is on full display in the podcast and the book! Please check out the Social Media feeds for the podcast for some more images from the Book! Dr. Milton Love is a research biologist at the Marine Science Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara and wrote most of the words in the book.  Jessica Eggers holds a Masters of Science from Rhodes University in South Africa and has published scientific illustrations, her art can be found at galleries around Europe as well as online, she drew all of the illustrations. Please note that this podcast has a little bit more profanity and silliness than normal, I think you'll enjoy the ride!      Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).     You can find the book on Really Big Press - https://really-big-press.myshopify.com/ ,  as well as Jessica's webstore here: https://www.jessieggers.com/gonzo-ichthyology-a-graphic-guide/. You can also find the book on Amazon if you get really desperate.  Jessica's Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/Roughforradio?ref=seller-platform-mcnav   

Conrad sat down with Michael Sipos, Florida Sea Grant Agent, to explore his journey from aquarium hobbyist to marine biologist—connecting his passion for science, sustainability, and the sea. From his master’s research on hormonal induction spawning in ornamental fish, advancing sustainable aquaculture practices, to his current work addressing invasive species and fishing education in Florida, Mike blends research with real-world impact. Off the clock, he channels that same curiosity into spearfishing, among many other hobbies, combining skill, respect, and sustainability in everything he does. #FisheriesPodcast #SeaGrant #Spearfishing #Aquaculture #SustainableFishing #MarineScience #StayCurious  Takeaway: stay curious   “Get in touch with us! The Fisheries Podcast is on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, and Bluesky: @FisheriesPod  Become a Patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/FisheriesPodcast Buy podcast shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more: https://teespring.com/stores/the-fisheries-podcast-fan-shop Thanks as always to Andrew Gialanella for the fantastic intro/outro music. The Fisheries Podcast is a completely independent podcast, not affiliated with a larger organization or entity. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the podcast. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by the hosts are those of that individual and do not necessarily reflect the view of any entity with those individuals are affiliated in other capacities (such as employers).”