Anastasia Mikhalochkina: Lean Orb Founder

Podcast Episode #57

Anastasia is the founder of the Miami-based startup Lean Orb, using agricultural byproducts to create plant-based food service products and packaging that can actually be easily composted as opposed to tricky alternatives like bioplastics. Inspired by her connection to and appreciation of nature, her interest in the circular economy, and her desire to make a positive impact as an entrepreneur, she is making products to replace the single-use plastic and styrofoam items we wastefully and dangerously use, that often end up in the ocean.

Learn more about Lean Orb products at leanorb.com, follow them on Facebook and Instagram, and check out miamiisnotplastic.org too!

Shannon Switzer Swanson: Ocean Photojournalist & Nat Geo Adventurer

Podcast Episode #47

Shannon is an ocean scientist, photojournalist, and conservationist working to share her stories with the world – on topics ranging from storm water pollution to the global aquarium fish trade. She was recently honored as one of National Geographic’s 2017 Adventurers of the Year. In this episode we discuss the importance of curiosity, Shannon’s interest in photography and writing, and how her definition of adventure has no boundaries.

Connect with Shannon on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

David Helvarg: Executive Director of Blue Frontier

Podcast Episode #34

David is an award-winning journalist and author, having written six books on a range of topics relating to our blue planet, including 50 Ways to Save the Ocean and his latest book The Golden Shore. Hear David’s perspectives on ocean policy and change, as he’s always on the front lines, getting the ocean recognized in the political arena, with his marine conservation lobbying organization Blue Frontier.

Visit the Blue Frontier website at bluefront.org to learn more and read David’s Blue Notes, find all six of David’s books on his Amazon page, and follow @helvarg on Twiter.

Kyle Thiermann: Pro surfer and video journalist documenting ocean issues and solutions

Podcast Episode #26

Kyle is a pro surfer documenting ocean issues that aren’t directly connected to the ocean at first glance. Mixing in elements of economics, politics, education, and culture, Kyle is uncovering opportunities for individuals around the world to be a part of the solution. Hear what motivated this big wave surfer from Santa Cruz to start his own film series called Surfing for Change, and what’s on the horizon for this ocean advocate.

Check out Kyle’s homepage kyle.surf to find links to his Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube channels. And visit surfingforchange.com to learn more.

Margo Pellegrino: Long-distance paddler for clean waterways

Podcast Episode #25

Margo is a long-distance paddler currently going from Chicago to New Orleans in her outrigger canoe to raise awareness about the importance of clean waterways and healthy oceans. Hear this mother of two describe what inspires her to complete these incredible journeys in the face of harsh weather, long tiring days, and highly polluted waterways.

Follow Margo on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.  Visit her website paddle4blue.wordpress.com and you can support her cause by making a donation.