Jasmin Graham, a marine biologist and founder of Minorities in Shark Science (MISS), shares her inspiring journey from a disillusioned graduate student to a passionate advocate for sharks. She emphasizes the critical need for shark conservation and the vital role these creatures play in ocean ecosystems. Jasmin discusses the importance of diversity in marine research and highlights the invaluable knowledge shared by Black fishermen. The conversation also dives into the unique charms of bonnethead sharks and the fascinating anatomy of hammerheads, blending science with storytelling.
Jasmin Graham founded Minorities in Shark Science to enhance diversity in marine research and empower underrepresented communities in the field.
She aims to reshape public perceptions of sharks through education, emphasizing their ecological significance and the rarity of unprovoked attacks.
Deep dives
Instagram Teen Accounts for Safety
New Instagram teen accounts have been introduced to enhance safety for younger users. These accounts come with automatic protections that restrict who can contact teens and filter the content they can access. This initiative mirrors the necessity of protective gear for activities like riding, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding teens as they navigate social media. By implementing these features, Instagram aims to create a more secure online environment for its younger audience.
Empowerment through Representation in Shark Research
Jasmine Graham emphasizes the need for diversity in scientific fields, particularly shark conservation, which often lacks representation. She recounts a pivotal moment when she discovered another Black woman studying sharks, sparking the formation of Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), aimed at fostering community and support. This nonprofit organization's mission includes providing networking opportunities and resources for women of color in marine science. The success of MISS reflects the impact of representation in empowering marginal communities within scientific domains.
Changing Perceptions of Sharks
Common misconceptions about sharks contribute to their conservation challenges, with many people viewing them as dangerous killers. Graham explains that the rarity of shark attacks is often overstated, as most encounters are provoked by human actions. By engaging in educational initiatives, Graham seeks to shift public perception and promote a more nuanced understanding of sharks and their ecological significance. This re-framing is crucial for fostering conservation efforts and ensuring these vital marine species are protected.
The Importance of Fishermen's Knowledge
Graham highlights the invaluable insights that local fishermen provide in understanding marine ecosystems and fish populations. Their long-term experiences serve as a living data set, offering critical information on the health of oceanic environments that scientists may overlook. Collaborating with fishermen allows for a comprehensive understanding of ecological changes influenced by various factors, including climate and human activity. This partnership emphasizes the necessity of integrating community knowledge into scientific research to address conservation challenges effectively.
As a Black graduate student disillusioned with academia, she founded Minorities in Shark Science (MISS). She now pursues her passion for sharks and outreach to a public fearful of sharks as a successful independent researcher.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode