Ocean Networks Canada began as a bold idea—to create a real-time, always-on listening system for the ocean. In this episode, Surfacing Secrets: Mavericks and Visionaries, we go behind the scenes with the individuals who brought that idea to life. From laying cables deep in the Pacific to building trust with research institutions and government partners, this is the untold story of how a world-leading ocean observatory came to life.

Our guests—Kate Moran (President and CEO of Ocean Networks Canada), John Delaney (Professor Emeritus, School of Oceanography, University of Washington), and Benoit Pirenne (Corporate Innovation and Technology Officer at ONC)—share what it took to turn an ambitious vision into the ocean science infrastructure Canada relies on today. From early technical hurdles to moments of breakthrough, they reflect on the innovations, partnerships, and persistence that helped ONC become a global leader in ocean monitoring.

If you care about ocean conservation, marine technology, or how visionary ideas turn into impact, this is a story you’ll want to hear.

The episode marks the beginning of a monthly series where I collaborate with Ocean Networks Canada and Balad'Eau podcast, where we explore the great work of ONC.

Ocean Networks Canada: https://www.oceannetworks.ca/

Chapters:
00:00 – Opening Quote & Introduction
02:00 – What is Ocean Networks Canada?
05:15 – Introducing the Mavericks: Kate Moran, John Delaney, and Benoit Pirenne
08:40 – The Big Vision: Real-time, Always-On Ocean Monitoring
12:10 – Why Canada? Why Now?
16:30 – From Concept to Cables: Building the Infrastructure
21:00 – Early Roadblocks and Game-Changing Moments
25:45 – International Collaboration and John Delaney’s Role
30:20 – How Benoit Pirenne Helped Scale Innovation
35:10 – Integrating Science, Technology, and Policy
39:50 – Bringing ONC to Life: First Deployments and Data
44:30 – Turning the Ocean into a Living Lab
49:00 – Education, Outreach, and Public Engagement
53:45 – Kate Moran on ONC’s Legacy and Future Vision
58:30 – Advice to Young Ocean Innovators
1:03:00 – Reflections on Risk, Reward, and Resilience
1:07:00 – Final Thoughts & What’s Next for ONC
1:10:00 – Closing Remarks & How to Get Involved

#OceanConservation #MarineBiology #SaveOurOceans #ProtectTheOcean #OceanAwareness #BluePlanet #ConservationMatters #ScienceForChange #SustainableOceans
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