The Ocean Optimism Podcast Ellen Spooner

Dive into the transformative power of the Blue Economy with the Port of San Diego's pioneers: Former Commissioner and 2023 Chairman Rafael Castellanos, Program Director Paula Sylvia, and Vice President for Planning and Environment Jason Giffen. Explore the innovative Blue Economy Incubator and discover how it's pioneering a path towards ocean conservation through sustainable aquaculture and advanced blue technology ventures. This episode is a journey from arid heartlands to vibrant coastlines, united by the goal of harmonizing economic progress with the imperative to protect our marine environments. Be inspired by the success stories of companies nurtured by the incubator, spreading their influence globally and driving the emergence of careers in ocean sustainability.


The Port of San Diego’s incubator is among the first in the United States, dedicated to sustainable aquaculture and port-related blue technology ventures. It champions innovative solutions for ocean conservation, including the pioneering installation of bio-enhancing COASTALOCK armored concrete tidal units to bolster marine life and coastal resilience. This initiative cements the Port of San Diego's position as a leader in the blue economy and ocean conservation.


Curious about how you can contribute to ocean health and be part of a sustainable future? Our latest episode invites you to explore the diverse opportunities within the blue economy, regardless of your expertise or background. We illuminate the ways to engage with the community, from educational insights to active participation in groundbreaking ocean projects. Listen as our guests share their expertise and passion, empowering you to join those at the forefront of ocean health and sustainability. This isn't just a conversation—it's a collective march towards a thriving blue planet for future generations.


Interested in submitting your business idea to the Port of San Diego Blue Economy Incubator? Visit: Port of San Diego Blue Economy Incubator.

The Ocean Optimism podcast shares inspiring stories of ocean conservation successes and solutions, featuring interviews with scientists, activists, and leaders from diverse backgrounds who are revolutionizing the future of our ocean, challenging perceptions, and igniting belief in the power of individuals to make a difference. 

The host, Ellen Spooner, a scientist turned storyteller aims to fuel your passion, broaden your horizons, and empower you to have a meaningful impact on ocean conservation. 

Together, we'll explore captivating tales, proven strategies, and initiatives driving positive change, equipping you with solutions and opportunities to actively engage in safeguarding marine ecosystems and bringing the wonders of the ocean into your world. 

In today's unique episode, we are excited to engage with voices from the corporate world, advocating for sustainability. We sit down with two leaders from a company not only dedicated to sustainability but also one that sponsors our very own Ocean Optimism podcast. We want to delve deep into their sustainable endeavors and understand what fuels their eco-conscious passion.
We're joined by:
Ini Ghidirmic, the Director of Pacific Capital Partners and FMR Brands. Connect with Ini on LinkedInDoriane Zalewski, the Marketing Director of Pacific Capital Partners and FMR Brands. Get to know more about Doriane on LinkedInTogether, they are championing the cause of sustainability and propelling innovative solutions for ocean conservation. Although we often speak with scientists and conservationists, engaging with private industries is crucial. Businesses like theirs have the potential to bring about monumental environmental impacts, and both Ini and Doriane are pivotal in driving this change.
FMR Brands, in particular, stands out with its determined approach to combat plastic pollution. Their rehydration drink, Refix, exemplifies this commitment, being bottled in glass containers, among their many other sustainable initiatives.
In our conversation, we explore the motivations behind FMR Brand's green choices, the challenges they navigate, and the opportunities they grasp. The significance of businesses choosing sustainability, even when faced with higher initial costs, and how they can be a beacon for others will also be discussed.
Join us in this enlightening discussion with Ini Ghidirmic and Doriane Zalewski. Together, let's unveil the potential of businesses like FMR Brands in pioneering a brighter, sustainable future for our oceans.
Stay Connected: For more ocean conservation success stories and updates on upcoming episodes, follow us on Instagram and Twitter @oceanoptimism and TikTok @ellensoceaninspiration.
Support Us: If you're enjoying the Ocean Optimism podcast, kindly rate and subscribe on your favorite platform. Your support amplifies the Ocean Optimism message and motivates others to contribute towards safeguarding our oceans.
Special Thanks: This episode is brought to you by Refix, a brand echoing the values of sustainability and health. We deeply appreciate their role in nurturing a culture dedicated to ocean conservation and sustainability.

The Ocean Optimism podcast features inspiring stories of ocean conservation successes and solutions. The host, Ellen Spooner, interviews scientists, activists, and leaders who are creating a better future for our oceans. The aim is to broaden listener horizons and inspire them to make a difference in ocean conservation.
In this episode, Ellen introduces her guest, Dr. Joeli Veitayaki, a renowned scientist from Fiji. Dr. Veitayaki serves as the Blue Prosperity Fiji advisor for science, community engagement, and cultural aspects and is a co-primary investigator for Fiji's largest ocean science expedition. He has an extensive career in marine studies, serving as an associate professor at the University of the South Pacific and as campus director at the university's Samoa campus.
Dr. Joeli Veitayaki shares his unique insights into the crucial importance of partnerships in ocean conservation. He reveals challenges faced by small island nations, such as limited resources, logistical hurdles, and the struggle to attract reliable partners. Nevertheless, Dr. Veitayaki paints a picture of relentless determination in the face of these obstacles, underlining the value of scientific research, strategic decision-making, and the preservation of cultural traditions.
Diving deeper into the cultural aspects, he explores the social fabric of Pacific Island communities, highlighting the importance of communal resource management and readiness to receive guests, a social expectation intrinsically tied to one's reputation and the concept of prosperity. His compelling narrative of resilience and community-centric conservation efforts serves as a beacon of hope for listeners.
We encourage you to delve further into Dr. Joeli Veitayaki's work by reading his book "Living from the Sea: Culture and Marine Conservation in Fiji". It's a remarkable exploration of the intersection of culture and marine conservation that will provide an even deeper understanding of the topics discussed in this episode.
To stay updated on future episodes and ocean conservation success stories, be sure to follow us on social media. You can find us on Instagram and Twitter @oceanoptimism, and on TikTok @ellensoceanoptimism.
Finally, if you enjoy the Ocean Optimism podcast, please take a moment to rate and subscribe on your preferred platform. Your support helps us spread the message of Ocean Optimism and inspires others to play their part in preserving our oceans.
This episode is sponsored by Refix, a brand synonymous with sustainability and health. We appreciate their support in fostering a culture of ocean conservation and sustainability.
Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Dr. Veitayaki, as it provides an enlightening perspective on the significant role that small island nations play in global conservation efforts.

In this episode of the Ocean Optimism podcast, host Ellen Spooner interviews Anupa Asokan, Senior Ocean Advocate for the Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC https://www.nrdc.org/ ). Anupa's extensive experience includes work with the World Surf League, the X Prize Foundation, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This discussion revolves around the 10 year review process for California's Marine Protected Area (MPA) Network.
The episode emphasizes the significance of long-term monitoring and adaptive management in evaluating the effectiveness of MPAs. Scientific research has shown that protected areas promote biodiversity, increase fish populations, and contribute to ecosystem resilience. Anupa explains that different levels of protection exist within MPAs, with fully protected and highly protected areas offering the greatest benefits.


The interview touches on the pressures facing California's marine ecosystems, including fishing activities, climate change impacts such as kelp forest loss and sea star wasting disease, and water quality issues like nutrient runoff and plastic pollution. Anupa emphasizes the need for compromise, valuing diverse perspectives, and incorporating marginalized communities, such as indigenous tribes, in decision-making processes.


Regarding the ongoing ten-year review of California's MPA Network, Anupa encourages listeners to get involved and support organizations aligned with their values. Supporting nonprofits, volunteering time or expertise, and engaging in conversations about marine conservation are practical ways for individuals to contribute. Anupa also highlights the importance of equitable access to nature, which creates opportunities for more communities to experience and value marine ecosystems.


The episode concludes with a sense of optimism stemming from the recognition of new voices and perspectives in marine conservation and the existence of solutions and tools to address the challenges faced by our oceans. Follow Ocean Optimism on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @OceanOptimism and on TikTok @EllensOceanOptimism 

Dive in with us on the season 2 premiere of the Ocean Optimism Podcast! Host Ellen Spooner interviews Dr. Kathryn Mengerink, Executive Director of the Waitt Institute, as they explore marine spatial planning, sustainable fisheries, Blue Economy, and the Blue Prosperity programs. Dr. Mengerink shares her journey from being inspired by Jellyfish neuroscience to working in the world of law and policy to preserve our ocean resources for future generations. Discover how her team partners with island nations around the world, providing technical assistance and empowering local communities to create a sustainable ocean future. In this episode, you'll learn about the crucial role of marine spatial planning, the challenge of cumulative impacts, and the importance of stakeholder engagement in creating a sustainable blue economy. Don't miss this exciting conversation on the cutting edge of ocean conservation!

In this episode, we dive deep into the shores of change and unity with a truly inspiring guest – Risa, the visionary founder of Paddle for Peace. In the aftermath of George Floyd's tragic passing, Risa organized an event, which unexpectedly saw hundreds of attendees. With passion and eloquence, she delivered a speech that not only moved hearts but also ignited a movement. Paddle for Peace was born.
Paddle for Peace, now a San Diego-based 501(c)(3) Organization, has an undying commitment to diversifying our coastal spaces. Their mission is clear: empower members of the BIPOC and underserved communities to revel in ocean recreation while also educating them about the significance of ocean conservation and safety. They achieve this by shattering barriers and generously providing resources to participants at zero costs.
For those of you who have been looking for avenues to make a difference or simply be inspired, Risa’s journey and story will undoubtedly strike a chord.
🔗 Connect with Paddle for Peace and explore the waves of change they’re creating:
Website: https://www.paddleforpeace.org/Instagram: @paddleforpeaceTwitter: @paddleforpeacesdJoin us, as we ride the waves of inspiration with Risa. 🌊