In part 2 of "Momma Sea Turtles" we're joined by Andy Dehart, a shark biologist turned CEO of Loggerhead Marinelife Center. Andy takes us on a journey through his career, from working with sharks to leading a turtle hospital. He shares captivating stories about tiger sharks and sea turtles, including the fascinating feeding strategies of tiger sharks and the incredible survival tactics of sea turtles when under attack. 

Throughout the conversation, Andy emphasizes the resilience found in both nature and humans, drawing important lessons from marine life’s ability to adapt. He also discusses the essential role aquariums play in educating the public and advocating for the protection of not only marine animals but their habitats, like coral reefs and seagrass beds, which are under threat from climate change and pollution.

Andy sheds light on the mission of purpose-driven organizations, the challenges they face, and the need for sustainable funding. He also discusses the future vision for Loggerhead Marinelife Center, which includes expanding community outreach and providing free access to marine life experiences for underserved communities. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Resilience is a key trait in both nature and humans, and nature offers valuable lessons in adaptation. 
• Tiger sharks employ unique strategies for feeding on sea turtles, including methods for dealing with turtle shells. 
• Aquariums play a vital role in conservation education and help raise awareness about protecting marine animals and their ecosystems. 
• Conservation efforts are crucial to preserving coral reefs and seagrass beds, which are under threat from climate change and pollution. 
• Stories of hope and positive examples of conservation inspire action in environmental protection. 
• There’s a balance to be found between purpose-driven and profit-driven organizations in making a lasting impact. 
• Learning from mistakes is essential to personal and professional growth. 
• Sound is an important tool for marine life in communication and navigation. 
• Loggerhead Marinelife Center aims to enhance community outreach and provide marine life experiences to underserved communities.

Resources from Today's Show:

• https://marinelife.org/
• https://www.facebook.com/loggerheadmarinelifecenter/videos/784831707169158/
• https://www.sharks4kids.com/post/2019/06/01/meet-biologist-andy-dehart
• Baltimore Fishbowl | Shark Week Wizard: The Nat'l Aquarium's Andy Dehart
• First Person Singular: Andy Dehart, 38, director of Fishes & Aquatic Invertebrates, National Aquarium in Baltimore
• Ripley's Toronto
• Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
• Subscribe to the Loggerhead Newsletter
• Loggerhead seeking volunteers

When nature wins, we win. Subscribe to "Resilience Gone Wild" wherever you listen to podcasts, and let's grow stronger together: https://pod.link/J4yd77 

Produced by BLI Studios in partnership with a WinWinWin Mindset

Connect with the host Jessica via email: jessica@winwinwinmindset.com 

Or on the web: winwinwinmindset.com 

Connect with producer Kai via email: kai@balancinglifesissues.com 

Or on the web: https://balancinglifesissues.com/podcast-bli/