Ocean Pod

Nina Wootton and Bronwyn Gillanders

Ocean Pod is a marine science podcast hosted by Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders—two Australian marine scientists with a passion for all things to do with ocean. Whether you're an ocean lover, student, or part of a coastal community, this podcast invites you into engaging conversations that explore marine life, uncover ocean mysteries, and spotlight the people working to protect our blue planet. Ocean Pod is your meeting place for stories from the sea—one episode at a time.

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21 episodes
Avg 36 min
English

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#26
Today · 36 min
Recreational fishing
In this episode of Ocean Pod, we take a look at the world of recreational fishing with Tom Tyczenko, Director at RecFish South Australia, passionate recreational fisher, content creator, and emerging fisheries scientist. We explore why recreational fishing is such an important part of Australian culture, what species people are targeting, and how science helps ensure our fisheries remain sustainable for future generations. Tom also shares insights from his honours research on mulloway, one of South Australia’s most iconic recreational fishing species, and discusses how understanding the biology and life history of fish can support better management and conservation. This episode offers a fascinating look at the connection between people, fish, and the marine environment. In Tide Talk this week Bronwyn speaks about a paper that uses recreational fishing photos to get more information on fish - https://doi.org/10.1111/faf.70097
#25
August 4 · 39 min
Scuba diving
In this episode of Ocean Pod, join Nina and Bronwyn for a relaxed chat all about scuba diving! We share our first experiences underwater, how we got our dive licences, how you can get your own dive licence, and why we love exploring the ocean beneath the surface. Whether you’re a seasoned diver, dreaming of getting certified, or just curious about what lies beneath the waves, this episode is for you. 🌊🤿 In this weeks tide talk, Bronwyn speaks about reef life survey - you can read more here: https://reeflifesurvey.com Nina talks about humpback whale migration using citizen science photos - the paper can be found here: https://doi.org/10.1098/rsos.260251
#24
July 24 · 29 min
Life as a Marine Research Assistant
Have you ever wondered who helps make marine science happen behind the scenes? In this episode of Ocean Pod, we’re joined by marine research assistant Rhiannon Van Eck to explore what it's really like to work behind the scenes in a marine science laboratory. From seafood fraud and fish ageing to microplastics, science outreach, and graphic design, Rhiannon's role spans an incredible variety of projects that keep research moving forward. We discuss what a research assistant actually does, what a typical day looks like, and how the role differs from that of a PhD student or academic researcher. Rhiannon also shares how her background in graphic design has become a valuable part of communicating science, and why creativity and communication are just as important as technical skills. Join us as we go behind the science and discover the people who help turn ideas into research! Nina's tide talk this week spoke about a recent study that used eDNA to find traces of the giant squid in Ningaloo reef - read it here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/edn3.70261 Bronwyn spoke about a new Aboriginal-led south coast sea urchin enterprise: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-05-17/nsw-government-grant-aboriginal-led-sea-urchin-enterprise/106627704
#23
July 7 · 44 min
Cephalopods
In this episode of Ocean Pod, we’re diving into the fascinating world of cephalopods – the incredible group of marine animals that includes octopus, squid, nautilus and cuttlefish. Known for their remarkable intelligence, rapid colour-changing abilities, and extraordinary behaviours, cephalopods are some of the ocean’s most captivating creatures. We explore what makes them so unique, how they are responding to our changing oceans, and why they are becoming increasingly important for fisheries around the world. We’re joined by marine ecologist Dr Zoe Doubleday from Adelaide University, whose research spans marine ecology, fisheries, and animal biology. Zoe shares her passion for cephalopods, discusses the science behind their fascinating behaviours, explains their role in sustainable seafood and food security, and highlights why communicating science beyond academia is so important.
#22
June 4 · 40 min
Researching Antarctica
In this episode of Ocean Pod, we take a journey to one of the most remote and extreme environments on Earth - Antarctica. We’re joined by Dr Tess Cole, who shares her firsthand experiences working in this chilly (literally) environment. From the logistics of living and working on the frozen continent to the incredible wildlife that live there, Tess gives us a glimpse into what it’s really like to conduct research at the bottom of the world. We explore the unique challenges of Antarctic fieldwork, including extreme weather, isolation, and the complexities of conducting science in such a fragile environment. Tess also discusses the importance of Antarctic research in understanding global climate systems, ocean processes, and the impacts of environmental change. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live and work in one of the most untouched places on the planet, this episode offers a fascinating insight into science at the edge of the world. In this weeks episode of tide talk Nina spoke about using old cans of fish to look at parasites in salmon - https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.11043
#21
May 19 · 38 min
Oysters oysters oysters!!
In this episode of Ocean Pod, we are talking about oyster reefs - one of Australia’s most important, yet often overlooked, marine ecosystems. Once widespread along our coastlines, oyster reefs supported incredible biodiversity, improved water quality, and provided vital habitat for marine life. Today, however, they are largely gone. We’re joined by marine ecologist Dr Dominic McAfee from Adelaide University, who is leading large-scale oyster reef restoration efforts across South Australia through the 25 Reefs Project. Dom shares insights into what we’ve lost, why oyster reefs matter, and how scientists, communities, and industry are working together to bring them back. In this episode's tide talk Bronwyn talks about the recent Ghoti paper in Fish and Fisheries on aquaculture feed, you can read it here: https://doi.org/10.1111/faf.70080. Nina talks about baby corals in the Great Barrier Reef, which you can read more about here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-30/thousands-of-baby-corals-transplanted-onto-great-barrier-reef/106502008
#20
March 26 · 39 min
Searching for seadragons
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Bronwyn and Nina dive into the world of seadragons. From their intricate camouflage to their unique reproductive strategies, we explore what makes these animals so special and why they are so closely tied to the health of our coastal ecosystems. Joining us is Professor Greg Rouse, from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Greg shares insights from his global career in marine biology, including his work on deep-sea ecosystems and his journey from studying in Australia to leading research in the United States. We also explore his work on seadragons, including the innovative SeadragonSearch project, which uses citizen science and photo identification to track individual animals and support conservation efforts. We discuss what we’re learning about seadragon populations, the challenges they face - from habitat loss to environmental events like harmful algal blooms - and how the community can get involved in protecting them. Plus, as always, we kick things off with Tide Talk, where Bronwyn and Nina share something from the ocean world that caught their attention this week. 🌊 In Bronwyn’s tide talk she spoke about new species evolving within a few thousand years of a mass extinction event. You can read that here: https://doi.org/10.1130/G53313.1 The link that we spoke about showing the first time weedy seadragons have been recorded mating: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8-3mln3q8I Seadragon search: https://seadragonsearch.org
#19
March 11 · 33 min
Whale sharks
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Bronwyn and Nina dive into the world of whale sharks - the largest fish in the ocean. Joining us to explore the science behind whale shark behaviour and migration is Dr Ben D’Antonio, a Research Scientist at the Shark Research Foundation. Ben’s work focuses on understanding how sharks and other marine megafauna move through the ocean using cutting-edge biologging technology. We also hear about Ben’s journey into marine science - from studying at the University of Adelaide to completing his PhD at the University of Western Australia and the Australian Institute of Marine Science - and what inspired him to focus his career on whale sharks. Plus, as always, we kick things off with Tide Talk, where Bronwyn and Nina share something from the ocean world that caught their attention this week.
#18
February 24 · 37 min
Ocean comedy
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders are joined by stand-up comedian and former marine biologist Forrest Shaw to explore what happens when ocean science meets humour. After spending a decade working as a marine biologist in Florida, US, Forrest swapped fieldwork for the stage - but he hasn’t left the ocean behind. Now a professional comedian, Forrest uses comedy to shine a spotlight on pollution, overfishing and climate change in the sea. The conversation dives into Forrest’s journey from marine science to stand-up, how he balances humour with serious environmental issues, and why giving the ocean a “voice” in his Adelaide Fringe show The Ocean Hates You! might be one of the most effective ways to get people thinking about conservation. Along the way, he shares insights into science communication, audience reactions, and why laughter can sometimes open doors that data alone cannot. Plus, in this week’s Tide Talk, Nina and Bronwyn chat about what’s been making waves in ocean science recently. To see Forrest's show at the Fringe, buy tickets here: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/forrest-shaw-usa-the-ocean-hates-you-af2026 Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#17
Dec 23, 2025 · 47 min
Sea snakes
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders learn about some of the ocean’s most specialised and least understood reptiles - sea snakes. They are joined by Dr Jenna Crowe-Riddell, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Adelaide, whose research explores how sea snake brains and sensory systems have evolved for life underwater. Jenna unpacks the remarkable sensory “toolkit” that allows sea snakes to navigate, hunt, and survive in the marine environment, from their unique adaptations to their often misunderstood behaviours. The conversation also touches on why sea snakes are so frequently overlooked in discussions of marine wildlife, the ecological roles they play, and the challenges they face in a rapidly changing ocean. Plus, in this week’s Tide Talk, Nina and Bronwyn chat about what’s been making waves in ocean science recently. Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#16
Dec 15, 2025 · 36 min
Busting ocean myths
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders dive into a fun and science-backed ocean myth-busting session, unpacking some of the most common “facts” we’ve all heard growing up by the sea. Using scientific evidence and real-world examples, they separate fact from fiction and explain why these myths persist. This episode highlights how misinformation about the ocean can shape the way we understand marine life and ocean processes - and why getting the science right matters for ocean literacy and conservation. Some key resources from this weeks episode include: Professor Cullum Brown talking about goldfish memories - https://www.livescience.com/goldfish-memory.html Mark Rober's YouTube testing if sharks can smell blood - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugRc5jx80yg Journal of Biological Rhythms study talking about different shark species rhythms - 10.1177/0748730420932066 Plus, in this week’s Tide Talk, Nina and Bronwyn discuss what’s been making waves in ocean science. Bronwyn talks about how the Great Australian Bight might soon become a UNESCO world heritage site, and Nina talked about Narwhals behaviour changing from noise pollution. Read more here: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/nov/25/shipping-noise-arctic-whales-narwhals-sound-quieter-vessels Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: Nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#15
Nov 25, 2025 · 29 min
Why do we fear sharks?
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders are joined by Dr Brianna le Busque, an Environmental Psychology Scientist whose research looks into how humans perceive and interact with the ocean’s most misunderstood predators - sharks. Bri explores how human behaviour and fear shape our relationship with sharks, from how children develop curiosity or concern to how media portrayals influence public attitudes. Her research challenges common misconceptions and highlights why understanding human psychology is essential for effective marine conservation. In this episode Brianna also recommends a few shark documentaries. These include Blue Planet (a classic!), as well as Sharkwater Extinction on Amazon/Apple TV and Super Shark Highway on ABC iview. Plus, in this week’s Tide Talk, Nina and Bronwyn discuss what’s been making waves in the world of ocean science - from fish kills to citizen science. Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: Nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#14
Nov 5, 2025 · 33 min
Live coral trade
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders are joined by Jasmin Broadbridge, a PhD candidate in the Wildlife Crime Hub at the University of Adelaide, whose research focuses on the world of the live coral trade. From vibrant reef ecosystems to bustling aquarium markets, Jasmin explores how live corals are harvested and traded across Australia, uncovering the complexities of domestic and international supply chains. Her work investigates where unsustainable practices or legal loopholes may occur, and how better management could protect these delicate, reef-building organisms for future generations. Plus, in this week’s Tide Talk, Nina and Bronwyn share what’s caught their attention in the world of ocean science - from the health benefits of seafood to Nina's recent field trip to remote South Australia. Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: Nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#13
Oct 21, 2025 · 34 min
Bowhead whales
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders are joined by Nick Freymueller, a paleoecologist and biogeographer whose research explores how species respond to a changing climate.. Nick recently completed a joint PhD between the University of Copenhagen and the University of Adelaide, using fossils and ecological modelling to understand how Arctic species like the bowhead whale have survived dramatic shifts in climate over time. From whale fossils and ancient DNA to modern conservation, this episode dives into what the past can teach us about resilience, adaptation, and the future of our oceans. Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#12
Oct 8, 2025 · 27 min
Nature's blue climate solution
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders are joined by Dr Sophie Russell, an ecologist from the University of Adelaide’s Future Coasts Lab. Sophie’s research explores how restoring coastal ecosystems like seagrass, mangroves, and saltmarsh can help combat climate change through blue carbon—the carbon stored in ocean and coastal habitats. She shares insights into the power of natural climate solutions, the science behind coastal restoration, and why healthy coastlines matter for both people and planet. As Sophie prepares to take on a new role at the South Australian Department for Environment and Water, this episode dives into how nature itself can help heal the climate. In this episode Nina's tide talk spoke about a new paper about wetsuits that can reduce the impact of shark bites. You can read that paper here: https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr/Fulltext/WR25019 Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: Nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#11
Sep 12, 2025 · 28 min
Exploring the Galápagos Islands
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders take listeners on a journey to one of the most iconic places in marine science - the Galápagos Islands. Bronwyn has just returned from a trip to the islands, scouting potential study tours alongside students and supervisors from James Cook University. She shares her experiences in the field, from the unique wildlife encounters to the challenges and opportunities of learning in such a remote, world-famous location. Nina and Bronwyn also reflect on the importance of the Galápagos for conservation and marine research, and what makes it such an inspiring place for the next generation of scientists. Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: Nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#10
Aug 25, 2025 · 31 min
Rewilding our oceans
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders are joined by Professor Sean Connell, a world-leading marine ecologist from the University of Adelaide. From the resilience of kelp forests to the pressures of climate change and conservation, Sean shares insights from his groundbreaking research on temperate reef ecosystems. With reflections on long-term monitoring, science-policy challenges, and the joy of scientific discovery, this conversation offers a rare window into a career dedicated to understanding and protecting our oceans. Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#9
Aug 5, 2025 · 44 min
Lets talk sharks
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders sit down with Professor Charlie Huveneers, one of Australia’s leading shark scientists, to explore the fascinating world of shark research. Charlie leads the Southern Shark Ecology Group at Flinders University and shares insights from decades of work tracking, tagging, and studying sharks—from great whites to school sharks and rays. They chat about the science behind shark behaviour, how research is helping to shape conservation and fisheries management, and what it’s like working with some of the ocean’s most misunderstood animals. This episode also dives into public perceptions of sharks, the role of science in reducing fear, and how emerging technologies are changing what we know about these top predators. Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#8
Jul 22, 2025 · 37 min
How to become a marine scientist
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders shift focus to a question they get asked all the time—how do you become a marine scientist? If you've ever wondered what marine science actually is, what kinds of jobs exist in the field, or how people get started working with the ocean, this episode is for you. Nina and Bronwyn share their own stories, from early interests to their current roles, and explore the many different pathways into a career in marine science. They also chat about the realities of the job—what it’s like working in research, the skills that matter, and their advice for future marine scientists, students, and anyone curious about life beneath the surface. Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au
#7
Jul 8, 2025 · 35 min
Sea Country
In this episode of Ocean Pod, Dr Nina Wootton and Professor Bronwyn Gillanders explore the concept of Sea Country—First Nations peoples’ deep, enduring connections to ocean and coast that have guided sustainable marine management for tens of thousands of years. They’re joined by Shane Holland, a proud Kaurna and Narungga man with over 30 years’ experience in government and marine policy. Shane shares his powerful perspective on Indigenous leadership, co-design, and shifting the way research and policy engage with Traditional Owners. From marine parks to fisheries, Shane unpacks why Sea Country matters—not just to First Nations communities, but to the health and future of Australia’s oceans. Follow us on Instagram: @oceanpod Get in touch: nina.wootton@adelaide.edu.au

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