In this special guest episode of Aqua Agenda, hosts Angel Fisher and Zia Yazdani welcome Emily Johnson and Lindsay Aker from the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society. With nearly two decades of hands-on experience each, Emily and Lindsay share their journey into marine mammal rescue, the challenges of 24-hour care, and memorable rescues—from sea lions entangled in ocean debris to cross-country releases of loggerhead turtles.

We also meet Tofino and Luna, two unforgettable sea otter pups, and hear how volunteers, practicum students, and even senior citizens become part of this vital mission.

Topics include:

• The rescue, rehabilitation, and release process for marine mammals

• Community reporting and how to help stranded animals

• Human impacts, climate change, and their influence on species like sea turtles

• Success stories: Cinco the sea lion and Moira the loggerhead turtle

• Ways to get involved—volunteering, donations, and even otter livestreams!

Whether you're an ocean lover, conservation enthusiast, or someone curious about the incredible work behind marine animal rescue, this episode is packed with emotion, insight, and inspiration.

In this episode, we welcomed Travis Fleet from Fort St. John, a key facilitator during our recent “Generations of Wisdom” retreat in Tofino, BC. Travis shared his insights into the dynamic conversations that unfolded among participants, highlighting the meaningful exchanges between youth and elders. These discussions touched on topics like the significance of traditional knowledge, the challenges of climate change, and the evolving Métis experience. His reflections offered a heartfelt glimpse into the retreat’s collaborative atmosphere, where bridging generational perspectives became a transformative journey for everyone involved.

Travis also recounted some of the unforgettable moments he experienced outside of the retreat’s discussions. From breathtaking helicopter rides to a serene boat tour exploring the coastal waters, and the incredible hospitality at Pacific Sands Resort, their time in Tofino was filled with adventure and awe-inspiring beauty. Through his stories, listeners get a sense of the retreat’s balance between enriching dialogue and connecting with the stunning natural surroundings.

Useful Links:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BC Métis Federation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Conservation Department ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate to support our initiatives⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, we uncovered the mystery of the Lophelia pertusa coral reef, a remarkable ecosystem thriving off British Columbia’s Pacific coast in conditions where scientists wouldn’t normally expect to find coral reefs.

Usually located in deeper, warmer waters further south, this cold-water reef has carved out a unique existence around 200 to 300 meters deep near the continental shelf. Discovered using remotely operated vehicles equipped with cameras and sensors, the reef has surprised researchers with its ability to sustain diverse marine life, creating a vibrant underwater community akin to tropical reefs in its ecological importance.

More than just an anomaly, the reef may hold clues about larger changes in our oceans. Cold-water corals like Lophelia are sensitive to environmental shifts, and its presence here could signal warming ocean temperatures or other changes linked to climate change. This makes protecting the reef essential - not only to safeguard the marine species that depend on it but also to deepen our understanding of shifting ocean conditions.

Useful Links:

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BC Métis Federation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Conservation Department ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate to support our initiatives⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Aqua Agenda, you will hear some exciting updates from recent conservation events, including a community event focused on the life cycle of Kokanee salmon and the 13th Annual General Meeting in Victoria. Also, a reflection on our shoreline cleanup efforts and emphasize the importance of community involvement in conservation.

The discussion then shifts to the impact of storms, exploring the differences between hurricanes, typhoons, and tropical cyclones, as well as the devastating effects of historical storms in British Columbia.

Tune in for insights on upcoming indoor events and how you can get involved in conservation efforts, all while enjoying a light-hearted conversation about the challenges and joys of working in environmental protection.

Join us as we dive into the waves of change, where every drop in the ocean counts!

Useful Links:

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BC Métis Federation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Conservation Department ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate to support our initiatives⁠⁠⁠⁠

Prepare for a hauntingly good time as we bring you our Halloween special, where the mysterious world of the ocean meets the eerie vibes of the season. In this spine-tingling episode, we dive deep into the unknown, exploring the darker, more mysterious side of the sea. It’s a perfect blend of Halloween chills and oceanic wonder, offering a uniquely spooky experience that will leave you both intrigued and a little unsettled. Whether you're a fan of the supernatural or simply fascinated by the ocean’s secrets, this episode is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Whether you’re a Halloween lover or a curious ocean enthusiast, this episode promises to send shivers down your spine while keeping you hooked from start to finish. Join us for a thrilling audio adventure that celebrates the season of frights while taking you on a journey through the ocean’s depths. It’s the perfect way to embrace the spookiest time of year with a splash of maritime mystery!

Useful Links:

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BC Métis Federation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Conservation Department ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate to support our initiatives⁠⁠⁠⁠
  

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Jonah Lee-McNamee to dive into his latest documentary, Hope for the Humpbacks. Set against the stunning backdrop of British Columbia’s Pacific waters, the film explores the remarkable resurgence of humpback whales in the region. Jonah brings together a diverse cast of voices, including Indigenous knowledge holders, former whalers, climate activists, and scientists, to paint a vivid picture of the whale's return to these waters. We’ll hear firsthand about the challenges of filming these ocean giants and the emotional stories behind the lens.

Jonah also shares his personal journey in creating the documentary, his passion for character-driven storytelling, and how Hope for the Humpbacks became a powerful narrative about conservation and cultural heritage. Whether you're an ocean enthusiast or just curious about the intricate lives of whales, this episode is full of fascinating insights and inspiring stories that remind us of the fragile balance between nature and human impact. Tune in for a deep dive into the making of this important film and what it means for the future of our oceans.

Useful Links:

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BC Métis Federation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Conservation Department ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate to support our initiatives⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Film Website/Support
• Jonah's Website
• News Article
• Film Instagram

In this episode, we delve into the complex world of eco-anxiety - a growing emotional response to the mounting environmental crises that surround us. As concerns about climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss intensify, many individuals find themselves grappling with feelings of dread and helplessness. We explore the roots of eco-anxiety, how it affects mental well-being, and the unique challenges faced by different communities. With insights from mental health experts and personal narratives, we aim to create a deeper understanding of this pervasive issue.

But it’s not all doom and gloom! We also highlight empowering stories of resilience and action, showcasing individuals and organizations that are turning their eco-anxiety into a force for positive change. From grassroots initiatives to personal coping strategies, this episode is filled with practical advice and inspiring examples to help listeners navigate their feelings and foster a sense of hope. Join us as we confront eco-anxiety together, transforming our concerns into collective action for a healthier planet.

Useful Links:

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BC Métis Federation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Conservation Department ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate to support our initiatives⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Aqua Agenda, we dive into some of the most astonishing and lesser-known facts about our incredible oceans. Imagine a world where over 80% of the ocean remains unexplored, a vast, mysterious realm teeming with life that scientists have barely scratched the surface of.

We’ll take you deep into the ocean’s darkest corners, where bizarre and resilient creatures have adapted to thrive without sunlight, surviving in extreme conditions. From otherworldly animals that glow with bioluminescence to underwater ecosystems so remote they seem almost alien, you’ll get a front-row seat to the most mind-blowing discoveries beneath the waves.

Beyond the mysteries of the deep, we also uncover some of the ocean’s surprising secrets, like how it plays a crucial role in regulating our planet’s climate and produces more than half of the oxygen we breathe. We’ll reveal how certain fish have the remarkable ability to change their gender, a survival adaptation that makes them some of the ocean’s most versatile inhabitants.

You’ll come away with a newfound appreciation for the sheer wonder of the ocean, understanding not only its vast unknowns but also its intimate connection to life on Earth. Whether you're an ocean lover or simply curious about the natural world, this episode promises to expand your horizons and make you fall in love with the sea all over again.

Useful Links:

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BC Métis Federation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Conservation Department ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Donate to support our initiatives⁠⁠⁠⁠