Shows
Breaching Extinction122. SRKW's in Monterey and Life UpdatesThis is the first episode of season 5! Erica and Madi sit down and chat about the future of the podcast and the southern residents using the full extent of their home range.
If you are interested working with Breaching Extinction please send us an instagram DM or email Erica at erica@breachingextinction.com
2023-04-0743 min
Breaching Extinction100. Homosexuwhale BaleenThis week Erica celebrated our 100th episode and pride month with a special two-part episode. In the first part, she chatted with Kendra Nelson about homosexuwhality in the animal kingdom, as well as their personal experiences being part of the LBGTQ community. For the second part, she chatted with musician and og homie Ambur Wilkerson to write "Baleen" a whale rendition of the iconic Dolly Partons song Joleen.
2022-06-051h 25Breaching Extinction99. Snake River Savers ProtestThis we Erica chatted with Owen Begley-Collier and Lucy Larkin from the Snake River Savers about their upcoming protest in Seattle to remove the Lower Snake River Dams
Snake river savers social media sites:
https://instagram.com/snakeriversavers?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
https://www.facebook.com/snakeriversavers/
https://twitter.com/riversavers?s=21&t=OkJuFQGKoTa5Mc-7NBltag
Washington resident and can’t make the rally? Take action:
https://actionnetwork.org/letters/tell-governor-inslee-and-washingtons-senators-to-save-the-southern-resident-orcas
Other states take action:
https://saveourwildsalmon.salsalabs.org/bidenadminalert2022/in...
2022-05-2728 minBreaching Extinction0.33 Loving the Whales to DeathIn this weeks porpisode Erica, Liam and Kendra dive into the first two chapters of listening to whales by Alexandria Morton.
2022-05-2332 minBreaching Extinction98. Normal People Encouraging Normal People to do Extraordinary ThingsThis week Erica chatted Alex Haraus, an impact producer focused on saving our natural world. Alex talks about how he has used TikTok as a vessel for conserving wild places and shares some of his life experiences and philosophies.
2022-05-201h 00Breaching Extinction97. It Take a VillageThis week Erica chatted with Mumbai researcher and PhD Candidate Ketki Jog about her recent publication Marine Mammal Interactions With Fisheries: Review of Research and Management Trends Across Commercial and Small-Scale Fisheries. Ketki discussed her research and how she used the help of local fishers to collect data. She also shared her insight on how we can be better scientists and stewards of the environment by working together and staying humble.
2022-05-1341 minBreaching Extinction96. Inking about Squid and Mental IllnessThis week Erica chatted with one of her favorite humans Madison Bashford about her novel research tagging and studying market squid at the John Hopkins Marine station during her undergraduate career at California State Monterey Bay. They also have a very real discussion about the role of mental wellness in their personal and professional journeys, as well as larger environmental issues.
2022-05-061h 17Breaching Extinction95. Exploring the Mystery of Frequency Decline in Blue WhalesIn this week's episode, Erica chats with Ally Rice researcher at Scripps Whale Acoustic Laboratory about her most recent publication Update on frequency decline of Northeast Pacific blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) calls. Ally discusses her study and drives into the unexplainable conundrum behind this phenomena and shares current theories for why this may be happening. Erica and Ally also touch on noise pollution and Ally shares advice on how to better care for our environment.
2022-04-2950 minBreaching Extinction94. Dale off the RailsWARNING: This episode features explicit content and language that may be offensive to some viewers and inappropriate for children. The following episode is intended for a mature audience.
This week Erica interviewed marine naturalist and feral Alaskan Dale Frink about his personal life, feelings, and whales. Dale sheds much insight on what it means to be feral and have worms. Hope you enjoy this epsiode.
2022-04-151h 06Breaching Extinction0.32 Ego ExtinctionKendra, Liam, and Erica finished up Being Salmon Being Human by Martine Lee Mueller, they discuss our role in major climate issues, our geostory, and accountability in regard to these issues.
2022-04-1230 minBreaching Extinction92. Barataria Dolphins, Imposter Syndrome and Whale ScientistThis week Erica chatted with PhD student and co-founder of Whale Scientists, Naomi Mathews about science communication, imposter syndrome, and the vulnerable Barataria Dolphins.
2022-04-0150 minBreaching Extinction0.31 Dolly Parton and Salmon, the Most Important Things in the WorldErica, Kendra, and Liam dive into chapters 11 & 12 of Being Salmon Being Human by Martin Lee Mueller. They discuss the role of capitalism in environmental issues as well as how scientific exploration can occasionally lead to unintended exploitation. Tune in in two weeks for the final porpisode of this series.
2022-03-2835 minBreaching Extinction91. Ecosystem Jenga, the Role of Sunflower Sea StarsThis week Erica chatted with Senior Research Scientist, Jason Hodin from the University of Washington Friday Harbor Labs about his work studying the metamorphosis of Sunflower Sea Stars. They also dove into the ecological importance of Sunflower, the idea of ecosystem Jenga, and the mystery of Sea Star Wasting Syndrome.
Resources:
On Kelp Forest Declines
The Nature Conservancy of California (partner in the captive breeding program) page on "Transforming Ocean Conservation in California"
Stars for the Sea: our online funding campaign through UW! If your listeners might be inc...
2022-03-2551 minBreaching Extinction0.30 If there an "ism" or an "ist" in it, its in EnvironmentalismKendra and Erica dive into Chapters 10 & 11 of Being Salmon Being Human; Encountering the Wild in Us and Us in the Wild by Martin Lee Mueller. Much of their conversation focuses on colonialism. Disclaimer, we are two white women having this conversation. We highly urge people who want to learn more about the impacts of colonialism on the environment to seek information from or endorsed by indigenous people.
2022-03-1149 minBreaching Extinction0.29 Anthropomorphizing Wildlife and The Idea of ObjectivityLiam, Erica, and Kendra dive into chapters 7 & 8 of “Being Salmon, Being Human” by Martin Lee Mueller. They discuss the role that anthropomorphizing wildlife plays in science and human connection. They also discuss if it is possible to truly see things objectively.
2022-02-2548 minBreaching Extinction89. Discussion on Orcas: Our Shared Future ExhibitKendra Nelson, Fred DeNisco, and Erica discuss the Royal Musem Orcas: Our Shared Future exhibit.
2022-02-1856 minBreaching Extinction88. Exploring New Methods for Measuring Vessel SpeedIn this week's episode, Erica chatted with Researcher Cathrine Lo from Oceans Initiative about her recent study titled, Measuring speed of vessels operating around endangered southern resident killer whales (Orcinus orca) in Salish Sea critical habitat.
Episode Mentions:
Orca Conservancy
Delphinus Orcastra Youtube & Etsy (Use code:BREACHINGEXTINCTION for $2 off)
2022-02-0429 minBreaching Extinction0.28 Human NatureHarry Potter, Jesus, and Erica discuss Chapters 5 & 6 of Being Salmon Being Human. They dive into philosophies about humans and their relationship with nature.
2022-01-1449 minBreaching Extinction0.27 Who is SheLiam, Kendra, Erica and Shelby in spirit dive into chapters 3 & 4 of Being Salmon, Being Human.
2021-12-3153 minBreaching Extinction87. Coextinction Q & AErica sat down with Tori Obermeyer, Nicholas Castle, and Andrew Luba from the Coextinction film crew to talk with them about their new film and dive into the lessons learned along the way.
2021-12-1743 minBreaching ExtinctionDescartes + Fish Farms = Happy KendraKendra Nelson joins Liam and Erica to dive into the book Being Salmon Being Human by Martin Lee Mueller
2021-12-1029 minBreaching Extinction86. Youth with the TruthThis week Erica chatted with Owen one of the youth leaders at Snake River Savers as well as Shiva Rajbhandari, another youth leader from Idaho about their current efforts to push for the removal of the Lower Snake River Dams
Links:
Week of Action Description
RSVP
2021-12-0343 minBreaching Extinction85. One the 7th Day God made Sharks MetalThis week Erica chatted with Kendra Neslon and Orca Man, Fred Dinesco about shark eating killer whales and briefly discussed the current ecotourism situation in Norway.
Resources:
Orcas eat great white sharks—new insights into rare behavior revealed (Nat Geo)
Killer Whales 'Ripped Open' Great White Sharks, Ate Liver, Heart and Testes, Autopsy Reveals (Newsweek)
Shark predation and tooth wear in a population of northeastern Pacific killer whales
THE LIVES OF HAWAI‘I’S DOLPHINS AND WHALES
Episode with Emma Luck about ecotourism in Norway
2021-11-1950 minBreaching Extinction84. Obnoxious ObserversThis week Erica chatted with Tim Harrison, founder of Outreach for Animals about his work trying to eliminate the exotic pet trade. While this is not directly related to the Southern Resident, there are many themes that are parallel in their conservation story. Tim has been featured in two films, The Elephant in the Living Room which is out now, and The Conservation Game which is premiering at various film festivals. He recently wrote a book White Magic going more in-depth about these issues and exploring the world of White Tigers in the United States.
2021-11-051h 22Breaching Extinction0.25 Whale FrustrationIn this week's propisode Shelby and Erica continue with the book review of Endangered Orcas by Monika Wieland Shields.
(Chapters 9 & 10)
2021-10-2941 minBreaching Extinction83. Protected Habitat and Renewable EnergyIn this week's episode, Erica chats with Deborah Giles and Colleen Wieler about the expansion of protected areas for Southern Resident habitat and new renewable energies that may be placed in those areas.
Sources:
Washington governor, senator want answers on how to replace benefits of Lower Snake River dams
Southern resident killer whales encounter higher prey densities than northern resident killer whales during summer
2021-10-2250 minBreaching Extinction0.24 Love not LustIn this week's porpisode Erica, Shelby and Liam discuss chapters 7 & 8 of Endangered Orcas by Monika Wieland Sheilds and their thoughts on orca politics.
2021-10-1134 minBreaching Extinction82. The Sensory World of the Southern ResidentsIn this week's episode, Erica chats with Marie Souhaut about her master's thesis titled, Stereotyped whistles in southern resident killer whales. In her research, she was able to find new sounds produced by the Southern Residents. We discuss how she conducted the study and the implications of her research.
Note: The noise used when talking about abherant may not definitively be an abherant sound, these are hard to classify. Just wanted to demonstrate some of the different types of calls the orcas can make.
Thanks, Orca Behavior Institute for al...
2021-10-091h 09Breaching Extinction81. Ranking EcotypesBEWOW BEWOW BEWOW, in this weeks episode Erica ranks killer whale ecotypes with Kendra Nelson and Orca Man (Fred Denesco) they also discuss whale names and classifications.
Sources Referenced:
Killer whale ecotypes: is there a global model?
WDC Ecotypes Page
NOAA Images
Handbook of Whales, Dolphins and Propoises of the World by Mark Carwardine
2021-09-241h 13Breaching Extinction0.23 Do it for the whalesShelby, Liam, Peaches and Erica discuss chapter 5 & 6 of Endangerd Orca.
2021-09-2134 minBreaching Extinction80. Burnout in ConservationThis week Erica is joined by Gloria Pancrazi producer of the Co-Extinction film to discuss the role of burnout in conservation work and the importance of self-care.
2021-09-1045 minBreaching Extinction0.22 SealsThis week, Shelby, Liam, and Erica dive into Chapters 3 & 4 of Endangered Orca.
2021-08-3022 minBreaching Extinction79. Norway with the Northern NaturalistThis week Erica chatted with Emma Luck, also know as the Northern Naturalist to discuss her undergraduate piolt research project studying the ecotourism around Orcas in Norway. They also discuss Emma's current role in marine science and what she is doing to contribute to science.
2021-08-2757 minBreaching Extinction78. 1,000 Band-aids for 1,000 CutsThis week Erica is joined by Chief Scientist of the Orca Conservancy Dr. David Bain to discuss OC's Southern Resident conservation initiatives, including their new hydrophone project with Microsoft. David shares his thoughts on how to better help the Southern Residents through policy, science, and community collaboration. Please consider donating to the Orca Conservancy to help fund the hydrophone project!
Note: This episode was recorded before K21 Cappuccino was presumed dead.
2021-08-201h 01Breaching Extinction0.21 Homosexuwhales & Book ReviewsShelby, Liam and Erica review Monika Wieland Shields book Endangered Orca, discuss life updates and vegetables.
2021-08-1630 minBreaching Extinction77. #TheBestWhaleErica sits down with Kendra Nelson and Orca Man (Fred Dinesco) to decide which species is #TheBestWhale
2021-08-131h 36Breaching Extinction76. The Sensory World of WhalesIn this episode, Erica chats with Dr. Marla Holt Research Wildlife Biologist for the Marine Mammal Ecology Team at NOAA. Marla's current research focuses on marine mammal acoustics including the effects of noise on the acoustic signals and behavior of Southern Resident killer whales, their use of sound during different activity states, and the cost of sound production in odontocetes.
Correction:
There are now currently 74 SRKW's at the time of recording there were 75
2021-08-0652 minBreaching Extinction73. Kicking Off Orca MonthThis week Erica chats with Howard Garret, sociologist from Orca network about how he came to foud Orca Month. Check out Orca Months Website for more info!
https://www.orcamonth.com/events-1
2021-06-0441 minBreaching Extinction72. Can you not?Shelby, Liam, and Erica discuss the impact of Sonor will impact the SRKW's and how current testing plans will impact them.
Sources:
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/does-military-sonar-kill/#:~:text=While%20little%20is%20known%20about,from%20the%20sounds%20of%20sonar
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2017.00295/full
https://www.nature.com/news/2008/080801/full/news.2008.997.html
https://www.orcanetwork.org/news/shoup.html
https://www.orcanetwork.org/news/shoup.html#cwrsonar
2021-05-2848 minBreaching Extinction71. OrcaholicsThis week Erica chatted with Orca Man (Fred Dinesco) about the concept of Orca Man, connecting people to killer whales and the captivity era.
2021-05-211h 07Breaching Extinction70. Human and Cetacean CommunicationThis week Erica chatted with Moss Landing Marine Labs masters student Jack Barkowski about his research studying the anthropogenic impacts of sound throughout the ocean as well his thoughts on issues surrounding the Southern Residents and how we can use personal accountability and science communication to help them.
Jack has graciously offered to answer any lingering questions, to talk to contact him send an email to jbarkowski@mlml.calstate.edu
2021-05-141h 09Breaching Extinction0.19 Positive UpdatesLiam, Shelby and Erica sit down and chat about the recent new updates in Washington.
2021-05-1213 minBreaching Extinction69. Mugs and Mental HealthThis week Erica chatted with entrepreneur and high school student Oliva Perez about her new initiative to help the Southern Residents. Oliva shows us how we can all get creative to spread positivity and help the Orcas.
2021-05-0733 minBreaching Extinction68. Forming and Orca-straIn this week's episode, Erica sits down with Howard Garret and Brian Jenkins to discuss Biden's infrastructure bill, the It's About Dam Time campaign, and the Red Road to DC Initiative. Howard is a sociologist and one of the founders of Orca Network, a non-profit dedicated to raising awareness about the whales of the Pacific Northwest, and the importance of providing them healthy and safe habitats. Brian the founder of Blackfin coffee and SRKW activist. We urge everyone to continue to write our senators!
Sources:
It's About Dam Time Infographics
I...
2021-04-3057 minBreaching Extinction0.18 Red Road to DCIn this week's Porpisode Shelby, Liam, and Erica urge listeners to continue to participate in the It's About Dam Time campaign and discuss a new initiative Red Road to DC urging Biden to remove the Lower Snake River Dams and honor agreements with indigenous people.
Sources:
It's About Dam Time Infographics
It's About Dam Time Video
Red Road to DC
Seattle Times: Lummi Nation carvers and allies to embark on national tour to D.C., give totem pole to President Biden
2021-04-2614 minBreaching Extinction67. Snake River SaversThis week Erica chatted Owen Begley-Collier one of the founders of Snake River Savers, an organization that works to help members of the public voice their concerns about the Southern Residents with government officials.
2021-04-2330 minBreaching Extinction66. It's About Dam TimeIt’s time to breach the Snake River dams, for endangered orcas and salmon, climate action, and social justice. And Biden’s Infrastructure Plan is the way to do it. Brian Jenkins from Blackfin Coffee and Gloria Pancrazi from the Coextinction film & PNW Protectors chatted with Erica about the new Infrastructure Plan and how we can use it to help the Southern Residents.
Call to action:
Call and write to Senator Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell!
Here are some bullet points of what to include in your call or letter:
⁃ Biden's infrastructure...
2021-04-1644 minBreaching Extinction65. Emoceanial CurrentsThis week Erica chatted with Kelly Biedenweg professor at Oregon State University in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife about her publication Mixed emotions associated with orca (Orcinus orca) conservation strategies. Kelly is an interdisciplinary social scientist who evaluates conservation through the lens of psychology, anthropology, sociology, geography, political science, and other disciplines. Her study provide important insight on the role of emotions in Orca conservation.
2021-04-0935 minBreaching Extinction64. Scientific Discovery on the Road to RecoveryThis week Erica chatted with Lynn Barre Southern Resident Recovery Coordinator at NOAA about current efforts in place to help the SRKW's. She talks about the role of science, NOAA, and how we can help as individuals.
2021-04-0239 minBreaching Extinction0.21 How Sea Stars KelpLiam, Shelby, and Erica discuss the importance of sea stars in the Salish and sea star wasting disease.
Video of sea star eating urchin (Disclaimer: please review wildlife viewing guidelines in your area when handling wildlife)
2021-03-3015 minBreaching Extinction63. Salmon, Our Power CordIn this weeks episode Erica chatted with Alexandra Morton about her work conserving salmon populations. She shares her experiences with the Northern Resident Killer Whales as well as her insights on what we can do to conserve salmon along the west coast of Canada and the United States.
2021-03-2655 minBreaching Extinction62. Endangered Predators & Endangered PreyIn this weeks episode Erica chats with Brad Hanson wildlife biologist at NOAA about his most recent publication Endangered predators and endangered prey: Seasonal diet of Southern Resident killer whales. They also discuss his thoughts on science and orca recovery.
2021-03-1953 minBreaching Extinction0.20 It's a girl!Liam, Shelby and Erica share recent southern resident news. Please send us any questions you have. We will be doing a Q & A episode this Friday!
Sources:
Endangered predators and endangered prey: Seasonal diet of Southern Resident killer whales
CWR Whale Report
2021-03-0815 minBreaching Extinction60. Emotion(wh)al(e)In this weeks episode Erica chats with Jim Whitehead, new up and coming SRKW podcasters about his experience as an activist, thoughts on the emotional value of whale, and his new podcast Seaquarium's Shame. We want to give Jim a warm whalecome to the podcast community and fish him the best!
2021-03-051h 23Breaching Extinction59. State of SalmonIn this weeks episode Erica chats with Erik Neatherlan about salmon recovery efforts in Washington. He shares information about the history of salmon and its importance though out the Pacific North West.
Correction: There are 14 species listed on the ESA in Washington
Sources:
https://rco.wa.gov/salmon-recovery/
2021-02-2636 minBreaching Extinction58. You Know That You're ToxicHis week Erica chatted with PNW Protectors new biologist Kendra Nelson about marine toxins an their impact on the Southern Residents. Kendra shares her knowledge and her experiences working as an influencer and biologist thus far. Follow her on tiktok and instagram @intertidalkendy
Sources:
EFFECTS OF POLLUTANTS ON THE REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH OF MALE VERTEBRATE WILDLIFE - MALES UNDER THREAT
Southern Resident Killer Whales
Endocrine-disrupting Chemicals
2021-02-1959 minBreaching Extinction56. Drowning in SoundIn this episode Erica is joined by Megan Hockin Bennett, decade long volunteer at Orcalab. She talks about what make this institution unique, some of the most current threats Northern Residents and how this year has been different in light of covid.
2021-02-051h 02Breaching Extinction0.18 New Whale and More TalesOur Propisode's are back!! New host Liam Docet & Shelby Nielson join Erica to discuss the latest Southern Resident news, fisheries regulations in BC, and the most recent study looking at the impacts of vessel noise.
Sources: https://youtu.be/tQ0JPLyYoJk
NPR Article on Rice's Whale
Rice's Whale Study
Cavitation
Effects of Vessel Distance and Sex on the Behavior of Endangered Killer Whales
Artifishal Documentary
Let’s Talk Science (a charitable organization that promotes Canadian youth in STEM)
Whale and Dolphin Conservation (global charity)
Atlas of the Future
Our Sound, Our Salmon (A campaign by the Wild Fish Conservancy Northwest)
A few...
2021-02-0146 minBreaching Extinction55. Capitalism, Culture & OrcasThis week, Erica chatted with Breaching Extinction's Cultural Resources Intern Jake Rider about his current research project with Eckerd College evaluating the impacts of capitalism and culture on our views of Orcas. They discuss in depth the impact of capitalism on commodification and public view of killer whales.
Sources:
Scholarly Articles:
Cultural Staples in Crisis: A Historical Analysis of Southern Resident Orcas and Chinook Salmon /By, Dylan Farrell Seidler
Books:
A Puget Sound Orca in Captivity The Fight to Bring Lolita Home /By, Sandra Pollard
2021-01-2959 minBreaching Extinction54. A Crisis with ColeIn this weeks episode Erica chats with naturalist, captain and fisherman Cole Basar about his career, fishing culture, how to be the best hypocrite and whale dreams. This episode is not recommended with minors or those who do not appreciate humor. While they do discuss serious topics, there are some jokes that may not be whale received by all audiences.
Links for info discussed:
Vermillion Institute
Update: This episode was reposted at 9:52 am
2021-01-2247 minBreaching Extinction53. A Vessel for ConversationIn this weeks episode Erica chats with Shelby Nielson, PhD student studying epidemiology about a study evaluating the impact of vessel traffic on foraging behavior of the SRKW's. They discuss this study, new regulations in Washington and the recent siting of what was thought to be a long lost Norther Resident Killer Whale. See link's below for more information!
Studies:
Vessel traffic disrupts the foraging behavior of southern resident killer whales Orcinus orca
Effects of Vessel Distance and Sex on the Behavior of Endangered Killer Whales
Credible Scientific Institutions: Center for Whale Research, Wild Orca, & Whale Museum UPDATE: received some new...
2021-01-1544 minBreaching Extinction52. History of the Dams, Mystery of Natural ConnectionIn this episode Erica chats with Liam Doucet, activist and high school student from Portland, Oregon about the history of the Lower Snake River Dams as well as their current function. They expand the conversation, exploring the spiritual connection between orca and humans.
2021-01-081h 29Breaching Extinction48. Whale of a WomanIn this weeks Erica dives into more facets of intersectionality within the environmental field in a discussion with Erica Page, co-host of the Ocean Lovers Podcast. The Erica's talk about challenges women face in the field, personal experiences and suggest tips for creating an inclusive work environment.
2020-10-0148 minBreaching Extinction47. OrcaholicsThis week we took a little break from our usual discussion about the Southern Residents and intersectional environmentalism to talk to Erica Page & Kirstie Bashford from the Ocean Lovers Podcast about their recent trips out on the ocean, fun fact, internet friends & more.
2020-09-2550 minBreaching Extinction46. Orca Lab, Ego & EmoceansGloria Pancrazi comes back on for a special episode to share her experience volunteering at Orca Lab & thoughts anthropogenic contributions to Orca conservation. Her and Erica chat about the role of ego & emotions in conservation, and ways ensure these factors have a positive impact while directly supporting our goals. This episode is another reminder, that it is the humans who need managing not the whales.
2020-09-181h 00Breaching Extinction45. Whale SoupIn this weeks very exciting episode, Ellie Sawyer shares her experience being on scene at the most recent super pod event where J57 was discovered. They discuss the birth of the new baby, excitement in the Salish Sea, and as always encourage everyone to continue pushing dam removal. Erica also share the story of the time she met Ronnie Vannucci Jr, drummer from The Killers. Peace, love, whales
2020-09-1135 minBreaching Extinction40. WHALES ARE BOMBDiGGiTYIn this weeks episode, Erica chats with one of her best friends Madi Franklin about the stellar whale website http://Whalesarebomdiggity.shutterfly.com circa 2009. Madi shares her fear of dolphins and other life experiences. The world is heavy right now, so we hope you enjoy this light hearted giggly episode.
Click here to learn more about Navy interference with whales, and how to help!
2020-07-3132 minBreaching Extinction36. Success Is a Process not an EventThis this weeks episode, Erica chats with Bonny Glambeck, life long activist and founder of Clayoquot Action. She discusses her work with the foundation as well as tip for cultivating healthy and successful activism culture.
Recommended Links:
Salmon People
Beautiful Trouble
2020-07-0338 minBreaching Extinction34. Ecotourism, Bro Buds & JesusIn this episode Erica talks with Florida State University graduate Lindsay Hooper, about her masters thesis evaluating compliance levels of ecotourism boats in relation to NOAA's viewing guidelines. They discuss the importance of science of community involvement in sustainable ecotourism.
2020-06-191h 12Breaching Extinction33. Exploring the Intersectionality of Race and EnvironmentalismThis week Erica chatted with Fana Scott & Alexandria Gordon students at Eckerd College and members of the EC Afro-American Society. They shared their thoughts on combating racial issues in the environmental field and provided insight for cultivating inclusivisity.
Link to ejnet here!
Learn more about John Francis here!
2020-06-1241 minBreaching Extinction32. Cultivating Connection through Creativity, Part 3In this final part of the Cultivating Connection through Creativity Erica talks to the fintastic Nyk Lifson about their coloring book the Fluidity of Fish. They divulge into other topics like the intersectionality of queer issues, race, economics, and environmentalism and discover they are both gay for the ocean.
2020-06-0534 minBreaching Extinction31. Cultivating Connection through Creativity, Part 2This is part 2 of our 3 part short series exploring this importance of creative expression in conservation. This week Erica chatted with Michelle Fleur , conservation artist based in western Australia about the importance of using art as a bridge to connect everyone to wildlife. She discusses her two projects, Whales for a Wild World and 200 Whales which directly support cetacean conservation efforts.
2020-05-2941 minBreaching Extinction30. Cultivating Connection through Creativity, Part 1This is Part 1 of a 3 part series, showcasing the the bridge between people and science through art. In this episode, Erica chats with Rosmary Connelli of Connllie Designs about her work as a conservation artist, the importance of art, and its roll in accessible science based education.
2020-05-2236 minBreaching Extinction28. Man Made ExtinctionIn this episode, Erica chats with Alexandra Johnston one of the executive producers of the film Searching for Chinook. She shares what inspired her to produce the film, and how she hopes to impact the fate of the Southern Residents.
2020-05-0831 minBreaching ExtinctionBONUS: Collaboration with Ocean Lovers PodcastIn this episode Erica chats with Erica Page and Kristie Basford hosts of The Ocean Lovers podcast. If you are interested in learning more about the ocean in general check out their podcast for a variety of interesting topics! (There were some technical issues so please excuse to not so perfect audio compiling
2020-05-041h 03Breaching Extinction27. Sanctuaries, Science & AdvocacyIn this episode Erica explores ideas about cetacean brains, the whale sanctuary project and the relationship between science and advocacy with Neurobiologist Lori Marino. Lori is the President of The Whale Sanctuary Project and Executive Director of the Kimmela Center for Animal Advocacy. She has spent over two decades to dedicated to understanding the behavior of cetaceans in captivity through research, which she has used as a platform for Animal Advocacy.
2020-05-0145 minBreaching Extinction26. Emulate to Eliminate ExtinctionIn this episode, Erica interviews Snow McCormick and Cy Scammell co-founders of PNW Protectors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the Salish Sea and its inhabitants through education, science and empowerment. They share the inspiring story of how the got involved working to conserve and the magic that has come out of being connected to this community. They elaborate on their mission, current projects and thoughts on how best to save the SRKW's.
2020-04-2451 minBreaching Extinction25. It's Time to Turn to the WhalesThis week Erica checked back in with Gloria Pancrazi, who we interviewed in episode 20 prior to the initial March for the Dams too, discuss what she learned and her thoughts on how best to proceed going forward.
2020-04-1743 minBreaching Extinction24. Spiritu(Whale)ityIn this episode Erica interviews Heather Green, an author and intuitive healer about the spiritual elements of conservation, and human-animal relationships. Heather earned a bachelors degree in Nursing from Clarke College and went onto pursue a masters degree in Counseling Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute. She spent thirteen years working as a registered nurse and several years as a counselor before transitioning into her current role. She elaborates on why spirituality plays an important role in conservation and what she thinks we can learn from the whales. (Correction: Erica meant to say Noah's Arc not Joan of Arc)
2020-04-1038 minBreaching Extinction23. We Need to Connect in Order to ProtectIn this episode Erica interviews Orca Network Co-Founder & Director, Howard Garrett about his life's work understanding and conserving the Southern Resident Killer Whales. He shares thoughts and experiences which have led him to dedicate his time working to connect people to the whales, and return Tokitae (Lolita) back to her family.
2020-03-2037 minBreaching Extinction22. Shedding Light on ParasitesErica explores the world of parasite ecology with marine mammal researcher Natalie Mastick. They discuss her current project assessing parasite prevalence in killer whales, her partnership with Oceans Initiative, & work with the Women in Marine Mammal Science project. She encourages those of you feeling inspired to contribute to marine mammal science to donate to Oceans Initiative. CORRECTION: There has been a mix of increasing and decreasing parasites in the Puget Sound
2020-03-1322 minBreaching Extinction0.16 Geeked about the Beaked (Whales)This week, Ellie and Erica chat about the march for the dams, news sources and beaked whales.
2020-03-0227 minBreaching Extinction20. March to Avoid ExtinctionIn this episode Erica interviews Gloria Pancrazi, co-founder of the Coextinction film and organizer for the March for the Dams. This discuss the importance of taking action and unpack Glorias motivation behind the movement. We are again reminded that this is a group project and urge people to join the movement!
2020-02-2838 minBreaching Extinction0.15 Sharing is CaringThis week Ellie and Erica answer a pod members question about killer whales in captivity, they also continue to urge everyone to march for the dams and take action!
2020-02-2429 minBreaching Extinction19. OrCommunicationIn this episode Erica interviews Biola University Communication graduate Emily Castro about effective communication skills when sharing science and navigating social media while (orca)hestrating dissemination of accurate information.
2020-02-2129 minBreaching Extinction0.14 Lizzo the RissoThis week Ellie and Erica debrief the previous episode, encourage people to march for the dams, & explore weird things that whales do.
2020-02-1726 minBreaching Extinction18. Research Survey with Adelaidee FouacheIn this episode, Adelaidee Fouache's masters student from the Swedish University of Agriculture studying Environmental Communications and Management interviews Erica for her thesis evaluating the human side of SRKW conservation, giving listeners the unique opportunity to experience part of the scientific process.
2020-02-1451 minBreaching Extinction0.13 Plant your seed because size does matterIn this weeks porpisode Erica and Ellie examine the importance of sexual dimorphism, discover that pineapples are not citrus fruit & explore the possibility of whales hiccups. Also, Erica's roommate Lara reminds everyone of legal age to vote!
2020-02-1027 minBreaching Extinction0.12 Chasing RabbitsErica & Ellie tangent hop 🐰 through subjects such as soul animals, animal farts, social media & other food stuff. We’re jammin’
2020-02-0440 minBreaching Extinction0.11 Evidence based scientific NarwhalingDespite the title of this episode, we are actually focused on discussing gray whales. Additionally, Ellie and Erica answer a listeners question about motivation. Recent SRKW news was also a prominent part of the conversation. You will dolphinatley enjoy it🐬
2020-01-2931 minBreaching Extinction0.10 Its a tough life in the pondGrandma Ellie and Erica are up to their normal shenanigans except now its long distance :( they discuss ditches, favorite animals and the bush fires in Australia.
2020-01-1335 minBreaching Extinction0.09 Narwhals and NonsenseIn this porpisode Erica and Ellie discuss narwhals, frog skin, and conflicts between culture and conservation.
2020-01-0632 minBreaching Extinction0.09 Cultural intersectionality in Science & Ellie the whale pimpThis week Ellie, Anna & Erica discuss the role of culture and gender within the scientific community. They discover that marine biologist are just the 'horse girls' of the ocean and Ellie suggests some rather radical ideas for new conservation efforts.
2019-12-2332 minBreaching Extinction0.08 Christmas Crikey CrockErica and Ellie get extra spicy recording on the eve of Friday the 13th under a full moon. They mostly discuss lemons and the grandmother effect among other whaley important topics.
2019-12-1631 minBreaching Extinction0.07 Meaning of life: SevenThis week Ellie and Erica find more evidence based science facts that marine biologists are goobs, answer some riveting questions and discuss the importance of combatting culturally rooted issues with heart and community.
2019-12-0939 minBreaching Extinction0.06 Wigs for WhalesThis week Ellie and Erica has the pleasure of answering some riveting questions from Hailey Broker, one of Erica's childhood friends and law student at Lewis and Clark College. They discuss whale self expression, reproductive behaviors and orca longevity. No fun was had during the recording of this porpisode.
2019-12-0236 minBreaching Extinction0.05 Turk Turk Turkey and Happy Week!Erica and Ellie talk turkeys, the possibility of killer whales holidays and Ellies family traditions.
2019-11-2531 minBreaching Extinction0.04 Law of the Fit, Empathetic Humpbacks, and Ellie's Three Grey HairsIn this porpisode the fourth, we bring on Anna Meyer, fellow naturalist, to discuss the humpback comeback in the Salish Sea in juxtaposition to the decline of the Southern Residents, Erica gives Ellie more grey hairs, and we dive deeper into Peaches's backstory. We also discuss the importance of empathy and interconnectedness, and what we can learn from humpback whales.
2019-11-1843 minBreaching Extinction10. Check in and Pod GoalsIn this tenth episode, Erica and Ellie take time to check in and evaluate the goals of this podcast as well as reiterate the issues remaining with the 73 Southern Residents, emphasizing the need for accessibility, checking one’s privilege, and learning how to be empathetic.
2019-11-151h 25Breaching Extinction1. Like the first episodeThis episode features field biologist at Oceans Initiative, Sarah Colosimo. Sarah and Erica discuss the basics of souther resident killer whale population, behavior and threats as well as meaningful experiences they have had working around these animals.
2019-09-1832 min