Shark conservation often feels like something only experts or elite scientists can do, but what if one unexpected decision could completely change your life and impact an entire ecosystem? In this episode, we unpack how a student who never planned to study the ocean ended up leading a major conservation effort focused on thresher sharks in Indonesia, and why his journey matters for anyone trying to build a meaningful career.

Marine biology careers are rarely linear, and this story proves it. From struggling to find direction to discovering purpose through internships and hands-on experience, Raffid Shidqi shows how curiosity, persistence, and taking chances can open doors you didn't even know existed. You'll hear how he built an organization with 25 local staff, why community-based conservation is essential, and how real change happens on the ground.

Ocean conservation impact becomes real when local people lead the work, and that's exactly what makes this story powerful. One surprising insight from this episode is that Raffid didn't start with a clear plan or passion for sharks, he developed it through exposure and opportunity, which challenges the idea that you need everything figured out before you begin.

Listen to the full episode.

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Dave:
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