Dr. Andrew Thaler: 10 Years of Crowdfunding Success on Patreon
Release Date: 05/31/2024
Coral Restoration In Trouble: Why Saving Reefs Takes More Planting Coral
How To Protect The Ocean
Coral restoration is often seen as a beacon of hope for our oceans—but are we putting too much faith in it? In this episode, we dive into why coral bleaching has become an annual event, especially on the Great Barrier Reef, and whether restoration can keep up with the pace of climate change. We explore what recurring stress events mean for the long-term survival of reefs and how restoration, while helpful, might be insufficient if larger systemic issues like warming seas and pollution aren’t addressed. Restoration is discussed not just as a solution, but as a strategy that needs to be...
info_outline
Rebuilding Fisheries in Canada: Capelin Biomass Falling Yet Fishing Stays Open
How To Protect The Ocean
Rebuilding fisheries in Canada: Capelin biomass is only at 16% of its pre-collapse level, which spells disaster for northern cod's recovery. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin breaks down the troubling state of Canada’s east coast fisheries. With DFO ignoring science-based recommendations, capelin is being harvested despite dangerously low numbers—and the ripple effects are hurting northern cod and entire coastal ecosystems. Northern cod cannot recover without capelin, their primary prey, yet management plans still treat these species separately. Andrew explores...
info_outline
Shark Communication: Graduate Studies, Sharks Science, and TikTok with Kenzie Horton
How To Protect The Ocean
Shark communication is critical in changing their "man-eating" reputation from the movie Jaws. Sharks need protection so telling people about the wonders of sharks is essential. Marine biology is more than just a job — it’s a lifestyle driven by passion and purpose. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin speaks with marine biologist Kenzie Horton, who shares how her love for the ocean shaped her career. Based in Florida, Kenzie juggles a full-time role in state government, a master’s degree researching white sharks, and a growing platform on TikTok where she busts...
info_outline
Dire Wolf Brought Back? The Wild Science and Ethics of De-Extinction
How To Protect The Ocean
De-extinction is no longer just science fiction. In this episode, we dive into the controversial concept of bringing back extinct species—specifically the dire wolf—using cutting-edge genetic engineering. Inspired by the headline-grabbing efforts to resurrect woolly mammoths, scientists are now exploring how DNA from ancient canids could be used to reintroduce this Ice Age predator into modern ecosystems. Genetic engineering plays a central role in this story. From piecing together fragmented DNA to editing modern genomes, researchers face significant scientific, ethical, and ecological...
info_outline
Rare Intersex Southern Right Whale Discovered Through Genetic Testing
How To Protect The Ocean
Intersex marine mammals are an exceptionally rare topic in marine biology, and in this episode, we dive into a groundbreaking discovery of an intersex southern right whale. The whale, sampled in 1989, was recently found to possess XY chromosomes through genetic testing. This revelation opens up new conversations about sex differentiation in marine species and the complexities of whale biology that scientists are only beginning to uncover. Southern right whale research has long been essential to ocean conservation, but this case adds an entirely new layer. Through a discussion of how genetic...
info_outline
Why the US Might Start Deep Sea Mining (And What It Means for the Ocean)
How To Protect The Ocean
Deep sea mining is making headlines as the United States considers allowing operations within its boundaries. In this episode, Andrew Lewin dives into a recent development involving a Canadian company, The Metals Company, that is pushing to mine the deep sea in US territory. What does this mean for the environment, international law, and ocean conservation? The US government’s stance on deep sea mining could shift the global conversation around ocean resource extraction. Andrew explores the political, environmental, and legal implications of this move, the role of the International Seabed...
info_outline
Seafood Laws and Ocean Justice: How Legal Frameworks Shape the Future of Fisheries
How To Protect The Ocean
Fisheries are more than just the act of catching fish—they’re tightly woven into the fabric of science, activism, and community livelihoods. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, we speak with Eva van Heukelom about the many layers of fisheries management and how sustainable practices are shaped not just by data and tradition but by the legal frameworks that support them. Law plays a central role in determining how ocean resources are accessed, protected, and managed. Eva walks us through how international agreements, national regulations, and local community rights all intersect...
info_outline
Ocean Conservation Career Is Not A Straight Path...and that's okay
How To Protect The Ocean
Ocean conservation careers often don’t follow a predictable path—and that’s completely normal. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin shares why expecting a traditional, linear route in marine biology or conservation can lead to frustration. Instead, he reflects on the non-linear journeys many professionals, including himself, have taken to find meaningful work in the field. Marine biology career advice is often focused on degrees and academic milestones, but Andrew explains how flexibility, adaptability, and following your passion can lead to unexpected and...
info_outline
Why Talking About the Ocean in Everyday Life Can Save It
How To Protect The Ocean
Ocean conversations matter more than we think. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin explores how the simple act of bringing up marine topics in everyday conversations—with friends, at restaurants, during social gatherings—can lead to a ripple effect of awareness, engagement, and ultimately, protection. The ocean affects all of us, yet it’s rarely discussed in casual settings. So why not change that? Marine protection starts with awareness, and awareness begins with talk. This episode dives into why we need to normalize ocean discussions just like we do politics,...
info_outline
How D and D Can Help with Environmental Education Through Immersive Learning
How To Protect The Ocean
D and D can help with environmental education by creating immersive, story-driven learning experiences that engage students on a deeper level. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Andrew Thaler, who’s using Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) to teach environmental concepts in a way that feels more like play than a lesson. Through world-building, role-playing, and strategic storytelling, students aren’t just learning—they’re adventuring through ecosystems, facing climate-related challenges, and discovering how natural systems work in real time. Environmental education is often limited to...
info_outlineDr. Andrew Thaler, a deep-sea biologist, and expert in utilizing crowdfunding for marine science projects, shares his success in funding side projects through platforms like Patreon, Kickstarter, and experiment.com. Over the past 10 years, he has raised $50,000 for various initiatives involving 3D printing, ROV technology, and sampling bottles.
Tune in to learn how Dr. Thaler's crowdfunding campaigns have made a significant impact and gain valuable insights for funding your marine conservation projects.
Andrew Thaler's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Andrew_Thaler/posts
Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp
Connect with Speak Up For Blue:
Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue
Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc
YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube
Crowdfunding platforms like Patreon and Experiment.com have been recognized as valuable tools for funding side projects in marine science and conservation, as discussed in a podcast episode featuring Dr. Andrew Thaler, a deep-sea biologist. Dr. Thaler shared his successful experience using Patreon to fund various projects, including the OpenCTD, research papers, and aid missions to countries affected by natural disasters.
Dr. Thaler stressed the importance of cultivating a dedicated audience and engaging with them through platforms like Twitter and Patreon. He noted that Patreon enabled him to raise funds for projects that traditional sources might overlook, such as high-risk pilot studies and creative media endeavors.
The benefits of Experiment.com were also highlighted as a platform that combines foundation support with crowdfunding, making it easier for researchers to secure funding for their scientific projects.
The podcast episode also addressed the challenges of using social media platforms for crowdfunding, noting the evolving landscape. While platforms like Twitter were once effective for promoting campaigns, their effectiveness has diminished in recent years. Dr. Thaler emphasized the importance of direct outreach to potential supporters, engaging with communities, and utilizing traditional platforms like email to promote crowdfunding efforts.
In summary, the episode showcased how crowdfunding platforms like Patreon and Experiment.com offer researchers and conservationists an alternative funding source for their marine science and conservation side projects.
Maintaining support on crowdfunding platforms like Patreon requires engaging with your audience and providing regular updates on your projects. Dr. Andrew Thaler, a deep-sea ecologist and conservation technologist, shared his experience with Patreon, emphasizing the importance of transparency and communication with supporters.
Dr. Thaler keeps his patrons informed through his blog, Southern Fried Science, rather than posting private content on Patreon. By sharing updates on his projects, research findings, and activities, he ensures his supporters are aware of how their contributions are being utilized, building trust and keeping patrons engaged.
Additionally, Dr. Thaler highlighted the significance of providing value to patrons through perks like custom stickers. Introducing a sticker campaign on Patreon significantly increased his funding and engagement levels. By offering tangible rewards and involving other artists in creating unique stickers, he enhanced the overall experience for his supporters.
Furthermore, Dr. Thaler stressed the importance of personal interactions and one-on-one conversations in securing support for crowdfunding projects. Many of his donations came from in-person conversations and direct outreach efforts, establishing connections with potential supporters and leading to long-term commitments.
In conclusion, maintaining a strong relationship with your audience, providing regular updates, offering valuable perks, and engaging in personal interactions are key strategies for sustaining support on crowdfunding platforms like Patreon. By fostering a sense of community and transparency, creators can cultivate a loyal and supportive fan base for their projects.
Building partnerships and engaging with other creators on platforms like Patreon can be a valuable strategy to connect with communities interested in supporting your work. Dr. Andrew Thaler, a deep-sea ecologist and conservation technologist, highlighted the importance of interacting with other Patreon creators who produce similar creative media. Subscribing to other creators and engaging with their content can establish connections within communities sharing an interest in your work.
Dr. Thaler emphasized utilizing Patreon as a social network to connect with like-minded creators. While some campaigns may not yield significant financial returns, engaging with other creators can lead to valuable partnerships and collaborations. By interacting with fellow creators on Patreon, you can tap into existing communities interested in supporting your projects.
Moreover, Dr. Thaler mentioned that in-person conversations have been instrumental in securing donations for his projects, underscoring the importance of building personal connections and engaging directly with individuals to garner support for your work. Actively reaching out to potential supporters, whether online or in person, can expand your network and connect with communities aligned with your goals and interests.
Overall, building partnerships and engaging with other creators on platforms like Patreon can not only help access funding but also foster a sense of community and collaboration within your niche. By actively participating in the Patreon community and forming connections with other creators, you can enhance visibility, attract supporters, and establish meaningful relationships contributing to the success of your projects.