Welcome to the Wild Voices podcast, hosted by Donna Thomas and Nicci Gano, where nature speaks and stories come alive.

In this episode, Donna talks with Joe Meisel, biologist, conservationist, and educator. He is the author of two books about the wonders of the natural world: The Marlin’s Fiery Eye and Other Tales from the Extraordinary World of Marine Fishes (Cornell Press, 2025) and Orchids of Tropical America: An Introduction and Guide (Cornell Press, 2014). He is a co-founder of the Ceiba Foundation for Tropical Conservation and has led research, education, and habitat protection programs for nearly thirty years. In Ecuador, he and foundation staff established two extensive tropical forest reserves in collaboration with local rural families, the first through South America’s first conservation easement.

Mentioned in the show:

• Ceiba Foundation for Tropical Conservation - a U.S. 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1997 on a mission to connect tropical nature and sustainable livelihoods through habitat conservation and environmental education

• The Marlin's Fiery Eye and Other Tales from the Extraordinary World of Marine Fishes - Joe’s book dives into the mystery and wonder of the daily lives of saltwater fishes. Joe E. Meisel introduces readers to the fascinating behaviors, remarkable adaptations, and complex life histories of the many species that call the oceans home.

• Joe E. Meisel

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For more information about the podcast or to be a guest on our show, email wildvoicespodcast@gmail.com