Science, Solutions, Santa Cruz

Seymour Studios

Hosted by Jonathan Hicken, Executive Director of the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, this podcast spotlights groundbreaking research in Santa Cruz, California, and shares actionable, positive environmental news from the region. Featuring in-depth conversations with scientists from UC Santa Cruz and beyond, along with local leaders and environmental experts, the show makes complex science accessible while highlighting real progress and tangible solutions protecting our unique coastal community.

  1. 2d ago

    FIELD DIARY: Gelatinous Glowing Wonders of the Deep Sea with Steve Haddock

    Prepare to journey into a deep, mysterious realm on our planet from the comfort of your streaming device. In this special Field Diary episode, guest host Cassidy Beach follows marine biologist Steve Haddock from the podcast studio to a day of deep sea exploration with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI). Steve’s research focuses on the boneless, bioluminescent beings in a slice of the ocean thousands of feet below the surface. He brings Cassidy inside the control room for the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) Ventana as it descends to search for these little glowing jellies, then gently brings them up to the surface where they come face to face with scientists. Both in the studio and at sea, Steve and Cassidy discuss how the deep ocean is not a lifeless void, but a vast ecosystem teeming with fantastical lifeforms that support us surface-dwellers in ways we’re only just beginning to understand. Dive into this episode today to learn more about why this wondrous expanse deserves our protection and attention now more than ever before.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Deep Sea Exploration 01:04 Meet Steve Haddock and His Work at MBARI 03:22 Why the Deep Sea Matters to Us 06:25 Light in the Deep: Bioluminescence and Its Roles 10:59 Can We See Bioluminescence in Santa Cruz? 12:34 Accessing the Deep Sea: Technology and Location 13:28 Collecting and Studying Deep Sea Creatures 34:32 Threats to the Deep Sea: Mining and Pollution 43:36 The Impact of Human Activities on Deep Sea Ecosystems 44:21 Future of Deep Sea Research and Conservation 46:25 Citizen Science and Public Engagement in Marine Research 48:01 Lightning Round: Personal Insights from Steve Haddock Resources: MBARI Official Website - https://www.mbari.org Steve Haddock - MBARI Profile - https://www.mbari.org/person/steven-haddock/ Steve’s book: “The Radiant Sea”  - https://bookshopsantacruz.com/book/9781419772375 Bioluminescence Documentary - David Attenborough’s Light on Earth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rpmiaCxyEk Keywords Deep Sea Research, Marine Biology, Bioluminescence, Monterey Bay, Ocean Conservation, Deep Sea Mining, Offshore Drilling, Marine Biodiversity

  2. Jul 15

    DEEP DIVE: California's Marine Protected Area Network with Mark Carr

    In this special “Deep Dive” episode, guest host Eric Palkovacs, Director of the Institute of Marine Sciences at UC Santa Cruz, sits down with Mark Carr. Mark is a living legend of marine ecology who helped pioneer the concept of Marine Protected Areas (MPA'S) in California and now advises for new MPA’s all over the world. As a scientist, Eric brings a different perspective to his interviews. He still gets to the core of why this research matters to our community, but he also asks for some key behind the scenes details that reveal the thoughts, twists, and turns behind the science. Mark and Eric discuss land versus ocean conservation, how keystones species fluctuations and climate change have altered California’s underwater ecosystems, and much more in this all-encompassing chat.  If you’re a scientist or someone who likes watching the director’s commentary of a movie, then you’ll love this episode. Prep your SCUBA gear, because we’re going deep on this one.  Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest Mark Carr 02:09 Purpose of the deep dive episodes and scientific storytelling 04:55 Overview of California's Marine Protected Areas and their significance 09:02 History and motivation behind California's MPA network 12:06 Design principles and scientific basis for MPAs 17:07 Stakeholder involvement in establishing MPAs 22:01 Ecosystem types and habitat representation in MPAs 27:08 Monitoring outcomes and ecological responses to MPAs 33:03 Role of key predators and species in ecosystem health 38:52 Climate change impacts and resilience of MPAs 44:53 Future directions and expansion of the MPA network 51:50 Global perspectives and advice for other countries 01:00:03 Summary of lessons learned and importance of ongoing monitoring Resources: Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) - https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Marine/MLPA California Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) - https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Marine/MPAs UC Santa Cruz Institute of Marine Sciences - https://marine.ucsc.edu British Columbia Marine Protected Areas Planning - https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/plants-animals-ecosystems/marine-conservation First Nations Marine Protected Areas in Canada - https://www.bcnature.ca Deep Sea Conservation Coalition - https://www.savethehighseas.org Keywords Marine Protected Areas, California MPAs, Marine Conservation, Ecosystem Monitoring, Climate Change Impact, Marine Biodiversity, Fisheries Management, Marine Science, Conservation Policy

  3. Jul 14

    "What would have to be true?" Sarah Newkirk of Land Trust Santa Cruz

    This week, we're sharing a bonus crossover episode with our friends at "Designing Tomorrow" - a podcast all about creativity and authenticity in social impact strategies. Host Eric Ressler sits down with Sarah Newkirk, Executive Director of the Land Trust of Santa Cruz, who shares her insights on conservation strategies, community engagement, and innovative climate adaptation projects. Tune in to discover how local efforts in places like Santa Cruz can inspire global impact initiatives, and learn more about the importance of guiding the vision of conservation through public engagement. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Designing Tomorrow 00:53 The Role of Conservation in Community Impact 02:55 Sarah Newkirk's Journey as Executive Director 05:35 Strategic Planning and Organizational Change 08:36 Innovative Conservation Projects 11:05 Leveraging Tools for Change 13:51 The State of the Conservation Movement 16:58 Connecting Local and Global Conservation Efforts 19:40 The Importance of Public Engagement 22:28 Joy in Conservation Work 25:26 Building Relationships for Success 28:12 The Role of the Public in Conservation 31:06 Conclusion and Call to Action Resources Land Trust of Santa Cruz - https://landtrustsantacruz.org/ Wildlife Crossing Project - https://landtrustsantacruz.org/wildlife-crossing Sea Level Rise Adaptation at Beach Ranch - https://landtrustsantacruz.org/beach-ranch Learning the Land Podcast - https://landtrustsantacruz.org/podcast Keywords: conservation, climate adaptation, community engagement, land trust, Santa Cruz, wildlife crossings, environmental impact, nonprofit leadership

  4. Jul 8

    Senator John Laird on 50 Years of Conservation in California

    Imagine sitting by Mission Street for an hour and only seeing 5 cars pass through, or being in one of the first graduating classes from the “new” school of UC Santa Cruz. That’s the perspective Senator John Laird brings to this episode as shares his extensive experience across California’s local and state governments. As he reflects on the past 50 years of environmental policy, he highlights the long-term mindset needed to tackle looming problems when short-term budgets and election cycles cloud the decision making process. Approaching the end of his term limit as a Senator is not slowing him down, but fueling his fire to do as much as he can to set future generations up for success. Check out this episode with Senator Laird for a deep discussion on purpose, politics, and perseverance in the past half century of California legislation. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Senator John Laird's Environmental Journey 01:38 Senator Laird's Early Years and Connection to Santa Cruz 02:35 Involvement in Santa Cruz City Council and Environmental Initiatives 04:23 The Blue Wall and Anti-Oil Drilling Campaigns 07:41 Origins of Environmental Advocacy and Water Policy in California 10:25 Water Independence in Santa Cruz and State Water Issues 12:21 Water Bond and Infrastructure Challenges in California 15:04 Levee Repair and Flood Prevention in Pajaro Valley 18:06 The Pajaro River Levee Breach and Emergency Response 20:18 Innovative State Funding for Local Water Projects 22:57 Climate Change, Ocean Health, and Water Recycling 27:15 Saltwater Intrusion and Groundwater Management 29:31 Bridging Short-Term and Long-Term Environmental Planning 38:20 Role of Long-Term Monitoring and Science in Ocean Protection 43:06 Future Challenges and Opportunities in Santa Cruz 48:01 Final Reflections and Call to Action Resources: Senator John Laird - Official Website - https://sd23.senate.ca.gov/ California Ocean Protection Council - https://www.opc.ca.gov/ Save Our Shores - https://saveourshores.org/ Water Recycling in California - UCLA Study by Andy Fisher - https://www.uclalawreview.org/ Cap-and-Trade Program - California Air Resources Board - https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/cap-and-trade Keywords: environmental policy, water management, climate resilience, Santa Cruz, ocean protection, levee repair, water recycling, coastal planning

  5. Jul 1

    CSI: Condors, Ep. 1 - “Guts Full of Lead” with Myra Finkelstein

    After chasing illegal fishing boats and skydiving to disrupt illegal wildlife hunts, Myra Finkelstein’s unique journey from the skies to the high seas led her to become a professor of environmental toxicology at UC Santa Cruz. Her research on lead poisoning has identified major threats to scavenging species, including the iconic California Condor, and helped inform a ban on lead ammunition in the state. Tune in to learn what an isotope actually is and discover how bird feathers can provide a toxin timeline. Myra also shares how, for once, a big problem actually has a simple solution.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to California Condors and Lead Poisoning 12:26 Myra Finkelstein's Journey to Environmental Activism 25:14 The Science of Environmental Toxicology and Condor Conservation 26:16 The Impact of Science on Policy Change 28:21 Community Engagement and Conservation Efforts 30:23 Challenges in Condor Recovery 33:11 The Role of Hunting in Lead Poisoning 37:46 Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Lead Ban 41:26 Future Directions in Conservation Efforts Resources Ventana Wildlife Society - Non-lead ammunition program - https://www.ventanaws.org Hunting with Non-Lead.org - Institute for Wildlife Studies - https://huntingwithnonlead.org California Fish and Wildlife - Lead Ammunition Ban - https://wildlife.ca.gov The Story of Plastic (Documentary) - https://www.storyofplastic.org Keywords California condors, lead poisoning, environmental toxicology, wildlife conservation, policy solutions, ecosystem health, non-lead ammunition, environmental science, California wildlife, conservation efforts

  6. Jun 24

    Julie Packard, Live from Seymour Center

    Julie Packard shares her journey from a UCSC student to a global leader in ocean conservation, highlighting the importance of science, policy, and community action in protecting our oceans. Resources: Seafood Watch Program - https://www.seafoodwatch.org/ Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust - https://montereybayfisheries.org/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:54 Journey into Science and Conservation 06:05 The Role of Kelp in Ecosystems 09:59 Challenges in Kelp Restoration 14:48 The Southern Sea Otter Recovery Program 18:16 The Role of Science in Conservation Solutions 21:29 Hope vs. Fear in Environmental Advocacy 26:06 Taking a Stand on Conservation Issues 27:47 Exploring Ocean Conservation Initiatives 29:55 The Evolution of Public Awareness and Engagement 30:51 The Seafood Watch Program: A Global Movement 34:27 Innovative Solutions in Fisheries Management 37:08 Global Perspectives on Ocean Stewardship 40:33 Progress on Marine Protected Areas 43:29 The Recovery of Marine Ecosystems 51:21 A Legacy of Ocean Advocacy

  7. Jun 17

    FIELD DIARY: Gena Bentall on Sharing the Surf with Our Sea Otters

    When Otter 841 started hijacking surfboards at Steamer Lane, she exposed a much deeper conflict brewing just beyond the breakers. In this special episode, guest host Cassidy Beach hits the cliffs of Lighthouse Point with Gena Bentall, director and senior scientist of Sea Otter Savvy. Together, they look past the viral headlines to track the energetic costs of sharing an intensely crowded coast with wild marine mammals. But as human curiosity pushes deeper into these fragile kelp forests, the boundary between innocent admiration and a dangerous ecological deficit is wearing thin. With surf lineups more congested than ever, the future of coastal coexistence is being tested, leaving local communities to re-evaluate what it truly means to be a good neighbor to the wildlife in our backyard. Sea Otter Savvy👉 www.seaottersavvy.org/  Gena’s Recommendation: Serendipity by Jim Estes👉 www.barnesandnoble.com/w/serendipity-james-a-estes  Gena’s Recommendation: Serengeti Rules on PBS Nature👉 www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/serengeti-rules-dhbtnm/19906/  01:22 - Gena Bentall's Journey into Marine Biology 05:00 - Field Research and Sea Otter Tracking 09:19 - Human Disturbance and Sea Otter Savvy's Mission 13:22 - Energetic Costs of Human Interaction 21:10 - Entering the Field at Lighthouse Point 28:18 - Ecological Importance of Sea Otters 35:00 - Solutions and Certification Program 45:41 - Hope and Resilience in Conservation Efforts

  8. Jun 10

    Transforming the Pájaro River Levee with Andrew Fisher

    Andrew Fisher, a distinguished professor of Earth and Planetary Sciences at UC Santa Cruz, shares insights on hydrogeology, water management, and flood risk mitigation along the Pájaro River. Discover how long-term monitoring, community engagement, and innovative engineering are shaping sustainable solutions for flood control, habitat restoration, and groundwater recharge. 00:00 The Pájaro River Flooding and Community Response 10:14 Understanding Flood Risk and Management Strategies 25:56 Exploring Co-Benefits of Flood Risk Mitigation 33:35 Innovative Flood Management Strategies 34:07 Community Engagement in Environmental Science 38:48 Balancing Flood Control and Habitat Preservation 44:35 The Complexity of River Management 50:51 Groundwater Recharge and Its Importance 54:27 Long-Term Environmental Restoration Efforts UC Santa Cruz Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences - https://eap.ucsc.edu/ Army Corps of Engineers - San Francisco District - https://www.spn.usace.army.mil/ Environmental DNA (eDNA) technology - https://ucedna.com/ The Dreamt Land by Mark Arax - https://mark-arax.com/the-dreamt-land/

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4.8
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Hosted by Jonathan Hicken, Executive Director of the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, this podcast spotlights groundbreaking research in Santa Cruz, California, and shares actionable, positive environmental news from the region. Featuring in-depth conversations with scientists from UC Santa Cruz and beyond, along with local leaders and environmental experts, the show makes complex science accessible while highlighting real progress and tangible solutions protecting our unique coastal community.

Information

  • Creator
    Seymour Studios
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Seymour Studios

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