Oceanography Podcast
Oceanography: Science Beneath the Surface
Oceanography is a weekly podcast that explores the ocean’s most urgent stories—from marine biology and conservation to climate science and global policy. Hosted by science communicator Clark Marchese and produced by Pine Forest Media, each episode dives into the challenges and discoveries shaping our relationship with the sea.
Through conversations with oceanographers, leading researchers, policymakers, and climate scientists from around the world, the series brings listeners beneath the surface to understand why healthy oceans matter—and what it will take to protect them.
Whether you’re passionate about biodiversity, curious about underwater ecosystems, or following international conservation efforts, Oceanography offers an immersive, interdisciplinary look at the blue heart of our planet.
This podcast been recognized as an official project of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).
This endorsement celebrates our mission to bring critical ocean science research and stories to the world, connecting global audiences with the scientists, innovators, and communities shaping the future of our oceans.
Why the UN declared an Ocean Decade -
The United Nations Ocean Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) is more than a global framework—it’s a chance to rethink how science informs action. In this episode, Alison Clausen, Global Deputy Director of the Ocean Decade at UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, explains what the Decade is aiming to achieve by 2030 and how its legacy will carry forward. We discuss the role of Indigenous and local knowledge, the meaning of “success” beyond the ten-year mark, and how upcoming international ocean conferences fit into the bigger picture. Whether you’re just hearing about the Ocean Decade for the first time or looking for context behind the headlines, this conversation offers a clear and timely introduction.
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Plastic straws and sea turtles collide in this episode featuring marine biologist Dr. Christine Figgener, whose viral 2015 video of a straw pulled from a turtle’s nose launched a global anti-plastic movement. We explore the long history of sea turtles, the modern threats they face from plastic pollution, and how science and activism can work together to drive change. From migration research to marine conservation, Dr. Figgener reflects on a decade of impact and the future of ocean health. Originally aired on Plastic Podcast, this episode is cross-posted on Oceanography due to the urgent overlap between ocean ecosystems and plastic waste.
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How deep sea worms eat without a mouth is just one of the astonishing discoveries in this episode with microbial symbiosis expert Dr. Shana Goffredi. We dive into the strange and beautiful world of methane seeps and hydrothermal vents, where animals form life-saving partnerships with chemosynthesizing bacteria. From feather duster worms powered by natural gas to mixotrophic anemones thriving in volcanic vents, learn how cooperation fuels entire deep sea ecosystems — and helps prevent methane from reaching our atmosphere. These microscopic alliances are transforming how we understand evolution, resilience, and oceanic carbon cycling.
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Fish full of pharmaceuticals. Submarine groundwater discharge is quietly delivering human contaminants—like heavy metals, fertilizers, and even antidepressants—into our oceans. In this episode of Oceanography, marine geochemist Dr. Tristan McKenzie explains how these hidden pathways are impacting coastal ecosystems around the world. Drawing from fieldwork in Hawaii and Sweden, he breaks down the science behind groundwater pollution, shares the results of a global contamination risk map, and discusses the surprising ways contaminants disrupt both marine life and biogeochemical cycles. You’ll also learn why some of the world’s most biodiverse coasts are at highest risk—and how you can help. This is a deep dive into ocean contamination, climate interactions, and the data behind it all.
Full transcript here.
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Episode Description: Whales whisper, volcanoes rumble, and fish sing at sunset. In this episode of Oceanography, host Clark Marchese explores the science of underwater sound with marine biologist and bioacoustics researcher Dr. Jesús Alcázar-Treviño. You'll learn how toothed whales use echolocation to hunt in the deep sea, how volcanic eruptions reshape marine soundscapes, and why some whales may be mistaking plastic for prey. We also dive into the impacts of human-made noise—like shipping and seismic testing—on marine ecosystems. With fascinating stories from the Canary Islands and deep-sea research insights, this episode is your gateway into the hidden world of ocean acoustics and marine conservation.
Full transcript here.
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Episode Description: New tech is making waves in marine science. In this debut episode of Oceanography, we dive into the world of innovative fishing gear designed to protect endangered species—especially the North Atlantic right whale. Guest Megan Amico, a fisheries biologist with NOAA, shares how scientists and fishermen are working together to reduce harmful bycatch through smart design, including on-demand lobster traps and turtle excluder devices. It’s a story of unlikely partnerships, inventive problem-solving, and measurable success. If you care about marine life, sustainable fisheries, or just love a good science story, this is one you won’t want to miss. Learn how collaboration is helping coastal communities thrive while giving ocean wildlife a fighting chance.
Full transcript here.
Listen now on Spotify, on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you stream.