Shark Science and Poetry: A Conversation with Maria Cristina Oddone
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
Release Date: 03/18/2024
Guitarfish Genetics and Culture in Mexico: Bryan Huerta’s Journey Into Shark Science
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
Guitarfish genetics take center stage in this inspiring episode as Bryan Huerta shares how his fascination with sharks at the massive La Nueva Viga fish market in Mexico City sparked his entire scientific path. His early curiosity grew into formal research that now examines the guitarfish sold as Pez Diablo in Mexican markets, where he used molecular tools to identify species and highlight conservation concerns. Marine conservation research also shaped Bryan’s career through field experience in the Northern Gulf of Mexico where he helped run longline surveys, learned dissection and...
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Deep Sea Shark Discovery: Ivy Baremore and David Ebert Train the Next Generation in Honduras
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
Shark Identification Training In this episode of Beyond Jaws, Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert welcome back Dr. Ivy Baremore from MarAlliance to talk about an incredible deep-sea shark identification workshop held in Honduras. The workshop brought together scientists, students, and even local diving enthusiasts to learn how to identify some of the most mysterious sharks in the Caribbean. Ivy shares what inspired the training, how it came together after nearly a decade of planning, and why empowering local researchers is the first step in conserving deep-sea species. Deep Sea Conservation in...
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Madagascar Environment and Shark Discoveries with Dr. David Ebert
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
Madagascar Environment takes center stage in this episode of Beyond Jaws, where co-host Dr. David Ebert shares stories from his latest fieldwork on one of the planet’s most unique islands. From long days on the water to surprising new shark encounters, David reveals what makes Madagascar such an incredible place for marine research and conservation. This episode dives into the realities of working in remote field conditions, the thrill of discovering new species, and the importance of connecting local communities to conservation goals. Madagascar’s waters hold a mix of mystery and urgency,...
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Ghost Sharks with Dominique Didier: Unveiling the Hidden World of Chimaeras
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
Ghost Sharks are some of the most mysterious creatures in the ocean, and in this episode, we explore their story with Dr. Dominique Didier. She joins us to talk about her groundbreaking new book Ghost Sharks of the World, which she co-authored with Dr. Dave Ebert and others. From taxonomy and biology to personal stories of research, Dominique reveals why ghost sharks deserve as much attention as their shark and ray relatives. Ghost Sharks fascinate both scientists and ocean enthusiasts because of their evolutionary significance. In this conversation, Dominique shares her career journey, the...
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Sharks and Hurricanes: Aaron Carlisle’s Journey From Jaws Trauma to Shark Science
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
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 hurricanes also becomes a metaphor for navigating the whirlwind of academic expectations and public...
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The Shark Conservation Legacy of Leonard Compagno
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
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 into the classification and identification of sharks reveal why proper taxonomy is critical for...
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Shark Science Career Advice: Kenzie Horton on Tracking White Sharks and Finding Your Path
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
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 shark research, and what she’s learned through internships, grad school, and outreach. White...
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Shark Science: How International Trade Fuels Unsustainable Shark and Ray Fisheries
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
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 fishing, not just the science in the water. Chris describes his work using phylogenetic comparative...
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Deep Sea Exploration: Jonatha Giddens on Connecting People to the Ocean Through Science and Storytelling
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
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 sea. Ocean storytelling is central to her approach. Jonatha discusses how she uses writing,...
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Shark Week 2025 with Jesse Colaizzi: What It Really Takes to Make the Ocean’s Biggest TV Event
Beyond Jaws: Exploring Shark Science and Conservation
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 into sharp focus as Jesse explains the pressure to entertain while maintaining scientific integrity....
info_outlineToday on the Beyond Jaws podcast, Maria Cristina Oddone from Brazil shares her research on sharks and rays. Dive into the cellular level of shark science with her fascinating work. Join hosts Andrew Lewin and Dr. David Ebert as they explore the evolution of shark science from the early days of fear and curiosity to the diverse fields within the field today. Discover the incredible work of shark scientists like Maria Cristina Odane and expand your knowledge beyond jaws.
Connect with us:
Website: https://bit.ly/37TMqeK
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3eorwXZ
Beyond Jaws is supported by Save Our Seas
Website: https://saveourseas.com/
Dave:
Website: https://www.lostsharkguy.com/
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q1J9Q5
Andrew:
Website: https://www.speakupforblue.com/
Instagram: https://bit.ly/37g5WkG
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Maria Cristina Oddone's Accomplishments: Maria Cristina Oddone is a highly accomplished individual with a diverse range of interests and passions. She has made significant contributions to the field of shark research, particularly focusing on skates and skate egg cases. Her work in developmental biology, embryology, reproductive biology, taxonomy, phylogeny, fisheries, and conservation of chondrichthyans has been widely recognized. Maria has published over 75 papers and book chapters, showcasing her expertise in the field.
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Passion for Running: In addition to her academic achievements, Cristina is an avid runner. She started running at a young age and has continued to pursue this passion throughout her life. She competes in various distances, including 3, 5, and 10 kilometers, and is currently training for a half marathon. Running provides her with a mental escape and has even sparked creative ideas for her work while on the track.
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Love for Poetry: Cristina's talents extend beyond the scientific realm. She has been writing poetry since the age of 12 and has a deep appreciation for the art form. Despite not sharing her poetry widely, she dreams of organizing her poems into a book someday. Her ability to express herself through poetry showcases her creativity and introspective nature.
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Animal Rescue and Love for Cats: Cristina's compassion for animals is evident in her dedication to animal rescue. She has rescued four cats and a dog, all of whom were taken in from the streets. Her love for animals, especially cats, is a significant part of her life and reflects her caring and nurturing personality.
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Balancing Multiple Passions: Maria's ability to balance her academic career, running, poetry, and animal rescue is truly remarkable. She finds time for each of her passions, demonstrating her commitment and dedication to the things she loves. Despite the challenges of juggling multiple interests, Cristina's drive and perseverance allow her to excel in various areas of her life.
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Advice for Young Aspiring Scientists: Cristina's journey serves as an inspiration for young individuals aspiring to pursue a career in science. Her advice to not give up on dreams, despite obstacles or discouragement, resonates with those facing similar challenges. Maria's story highlights the importance of perseverance, passion, and support in achieving one's goals and making a meaningful impact in the world.
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Maria Cristina Oddone shared a personal anecdote from her childhood where an old friend of her mother's discouraged her from pursuing biology and oceanography, stating that it was a useless career choice. Despite facing this discouragement, Cristina remained determined to follow her dreams.
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She highlighted the crucial role her parents played in supporting and encouraging her aspirations, providing her with books, opportunities, and unwavering support.
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Cristina's journey serves as a testament to the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite being told that her chosen path was not valuable, she stayed true to her passion for biology and oceanography.
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Her advice to young people is to continue pursuing their dreams and not give up, even when faced with skepticism or negativity from others. She believes that with effort, work, and perseverance, anything is possible.
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Cristina's own experiences exemplify the power of determination and belief in oneself, showing that with dedication and persistence, one can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
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Maria's ability to quickly learn and teach a subject, such as embryology, showcases her talent and dedication to her work and students. This was evident when Maria mentioned that she wanted to teach embryology but felt she needed to enhance her knowledge in that area. She took a course in embryology and then successfully secured a position as a substitute professor in the field. This demonstrates Maria's proactive approach to learning and her commitment to providing quality education to her students.
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Cristina's willingness to take on new challenges and quickly adapt to new subjects highlights her versatility and passion for continuous learning. Despite not having prior formal education in embryology, she was able to grasp the concepts efficiently and effectively teach them to her students. This ability to quickly learn and teach a complex subject like embryology reflects Cristina's intellectual acumen and dedication to her role as an educator.
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Cristina's success in teaching embryology also underscores her strong work ethic and determination. By taking the initiative to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills in a short period, she exemplifies a proactive and dedicated approach to her professional development. Her commitment to enhancing her expertise in embryology not only benefits her own growth but also enriches the educational experience for her students, showcasing her dedication to providing high-quality instruction.
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Overall, Cristina's ability to swiftly learn and teach a subject like embryology exemplifies her talent, dedication, and passion for her work and students. Her proactive attitude towards professional development, coupled with her commitment to delivering exceptional education, sets her apart as a highly skilled and devoted educator in the field of shark science and academia.