Episodes

Sharks and hurricanes: that’s not a Sharknado sequel, it’s real research. In this episode of Beyond Jaws, Dr. Aaron Carlisle shares how a childhood moment of terror watching Jaws turned into a career in shark science. Aaron is now an Assistant Professor of Fisheries Ecology at the University of Delaware, where he explores how the physical and biological environment influences shark behavior, distribution, and ecology using cutting-edge tools like stable isotopes and biologging. Sharks and hurri...

Shark Conservation has been shaped by the tireless work of scientists like Leonard Compagno. In this episode, Andrew speaks with the legendary ichthyologist whose contributions to shark taxonomy and conservation have influenced generations of researchers and advocates. Compagno shares how he became fascinated by sharks, his groundbreaking work cataloging shark species, and his role in shaping the IUCN Shark Specialist Group. Shark Taxonomy is at the core of Compagno’s career, and his insights i...

Shark Science Career Advice: In this episode of Beyond Jaws, we sit down with Kenzie Horton, a passionate early-career shark biologist who’s turning childhood snorkel trips into a mission to protect sharks and educate the public. From chasing fish with a disposable underwater camera to studying white shark migration off the Carolinas, Kenzie’s story is one of drive, persistence, and unshakable curiosity. She discusses the ups and downs of becoming a marine biologist, how she found her way into s...

Shark science isn’t just about understanding biology, it’s about tackling the global forces that threaten these species. In this episode of Beyond Jaws, research scientist Chris Mull explains how international trade has become a powerful driver of unsustainable shark and ray fisheries. From luxury markets for shark fins to emerging demands for meat and cartilage, trade dynamics are reshaping conservation challenges worldwide. Shark conservation must consider the economics and policies behind fi...

Deep sea exploration is more than science—it’s an invitation to connect with the largest, least understood part of our planet. In this episode, Jonatha Giddens, a PhD researcher from the University of Hawai‘i, shares how her global work on deep-ocean ecosystems blends scientific discovery, creative communication, and human connection. From working aboard research vessels to translating complex ocean data into emotional stories, Jonatha explores how we can better understand and protect the deep s...

Shark Week 2025 takes center stage in this conversation with Jesse Colaizzi, one of the producers behind the most-watched week in ocean television. We go behind the scenes of what it takes to pitch, plan, film, and deliver a compelling Shark Week segment, how ideas are selected, and how shows make the leap from concept to global audience. Jesse also discusses what it means to represent sharks accurately while keeping the drama that draws millions of viewers each year. Ocean storytelling comes i...

All The Sharks Netflix introduces us to a new way of seeing sharks—not as mindless monsters, but as awe-inspiring animals coexisting with skilled divers. In this episode of Beyond Jaws, Aliah Banchik, one of the contestants on the show, takes us through her experience competing in this thrilling underwater game show. She opens up about what it was really like swimming among sharks, the rigorous training involved, and the relationships she built with fellow contestants and apex predators alike. ...

Mick Grant is a postdoctoral researcher at James Cook University, and in this episode of Beyond Jaws, he takes us on a journey from his childhood passion for nature to working with some of the world’s most elusive shark species. His story spans groundbreaking fieldwork in Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, including the rediscovery of species like the sailfin houndshark, and the challenges of conducting research in remote regions. River sharks and sawfish are among the most threatened species in o...

Why the 50th Anniversary of Jaws Still Matters for Shark Science The movie Jaws terrified audiences and demonized great white sharks, but it also inspired a generation of shark researchers and boosted funding for marine science. In this special anniversary episode of Beyond Jaws, co-hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert revisit the legacy of Jaws 50 years later. They speak with leading shark researchers—Lisa Natanson, Greg Skomal, and Chris Lowe, about how the film influenced their careers and ...

Shark Conservation drives today’s conversation with Guido Leurs, a marine scientist whose research spans multiple shark species and explores how we connect with them through images and media. Guido shares his unique career path, from his early fascination to postdoctoral work, and how visual storytelling has played a critical role in understanding and protecting these misunderstood predators. Marine Science Communication is at the heart of Guido’s journey. This episode covers the evolution of h...

Learning about whale sharks with Dr. Simon Pierce reveals a world of mystery behind the ocean’s largest fish. As co-founder of the Marine Megafauna Foundation, Simon shares surprising insights into whale shark behavior, global tracking efforts, and the challenges of conserving these gentle giants. A must-listen for anyone curious about ocean science and megafauna conservation. Marine MegaFauna Website: https://marinemegafauna.org/ Connect with us: Website: https://bit.ly/37TMqeK Instagram:...

Sharks: In this special bonus episode of Beyond Jaws , we dive deep into a fresh perspective on sharks through the eyes of marine biologist and science communicator Sophie Maycock. Sophie joins co-hosts Dr. David Ebert and Andrew Lewin to discuss her new book Shark: An Illustrated Biography , which not only showcases the beauty and complexity of these creatures but also challenges long-held misconceptions. Sophie: We explore Sophie’s journey from her scientific background to becoming a publ...

Technical diving opens up a whole new world for shark researchers like Dr. Yannis Papastamatiou, who has built a career studying predator dynamics in some of the most remote and challenging underwater environments. In this episode, Yannis shares his...

Sawfish shark conservation might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of sharks, but Dr. Barbara Wueringer is here to change that. Co-hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert sit with Barbara to discuss her passion for sawfish and...

In this episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, we follow the inspiring journey of Adriana Gonzalez-Pestana, one of Peru’s first shark biologists. She shares her experiences from working in Peru, writing a children’s book on conservation, and moving...

🐟 Shark conservation just got a powerful ally: Genetics! In this episode of Beyond Jaws, we talk to Dr. Diego Cardenosa, a leading marine biologist who is using DNA analysis to detect illegal shark fin trade. Learn how cutting-edge science is...

In this episode of the Beyond Jaws Podcast, we dive into the fascinating journey of videographer and documentary maker Denise Sotomayor. Denise shares her passion for capturing the beauty of sharks and the broader ocean ecosystem through her lens....

In this episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert welcome Sabine Wintner, a pioneer in shark research from South Africa. With over three decades of experience, Sabine shares her journey from Germany to the...

In this episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, co-hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. Dave Vertebert welcome back Dr. Michelle Heupel, who has recently been appointed as a fellow of the Australian Academy of Technology, Science, and Engineering (ATSE). This...

In this episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, Dr. Chris Lowe discusses the future of the Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach, reflecting on its past research and the challenges it currently faces. Key Points: California Shark Beach...

A career in science communication wasn't exactly what our guest, Jasmine Corbett, expected when she grew up, but now she is the Media and Communications Manager at the Manta Trust living out her dream to help share their work with the world.  In...

In this bonus episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, co-hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert interview Mark Packer, the host of the newly launched Shark Trust podcast. The episode highlights Mark's journey into marine conservation and his role at the...

In this episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, Dr. Alexandra McInturf shares her journey in shark science and conservation, highlighting her impressive academic and research background. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, a landlocked state, Alexandra...

In this special 100th episode of the Beyond Jaws podcast, hosts Andrew and Dr. David Ebert reflect on their journey over the past four years and the significance of reaching this milestone. They express gratitude for the support they've received from...