Dr. Mikki McComb is a marine scientist, shark researcher, and executive director of the Ocean First Institute, a nonprofit whose mission is to promote ocean conservation through research and education. Mikki loves to share her enthusiasm for marine science and conservation with others, and through Ocean First’s exciting and educational outreach programs and expeditions, she helps youngsters connect to nature and learn more about the ocean and the incredible animals that live in it.
In this episode, you’ll hear from Dr. Mikki McComb on:
- (00:02:24) Conquering her fear. Mikki recalls the profound impression that the movie Jaws made on her as a young girl and describes how her initial terror turned into curiosity and led to her subsequent fascination with sharks.
- (00:15:46) The story of the shark. She reveals that sharks have been around for a long time and have survived five mass extinction events. Mikki also points out that sharks come in many different sizes, from the smallest ones that can fit into the palm of a human hand to the whale shark, which can exceed 50ft in length.
- (00:30:19) Oxygen and the ocean. Mikki explains that the ocean acts as the lungs of our planet and points out that three out of every five breaths we take come from the oxygen produced by tiny plankton plants in the sea.
- (00:50:07) Protecting the marine environment. We talk about conservation, and Mikki urges listeners to make sustainable food choices that do not cause damage to the environment or harm vulnerable species. She also recommends using a guppy laundry bag to prevent the microfibres in our clothes from ending up in the oceans.
- (00:53:18) Following your passion. Mikki remembers a .transformative moment in her life, and advises listeners to have the courage to be their authentic selves, find their purpose, and pursue whatever brings them joy and happiness.