Episode #118
118. Protecting the Ocean Starts with People: Lessons for Everyday Changemakers with Andrew Lewin
The ocean can feel distant from everyday life, particularly if you don't live near the coast. Yet every second breath we take is made possible by the ocean, and its health shapes everything from our climate and food systems to weather patterns and biodiversity. Marine biologist and science communicator Andrew Lewin has spent more than a decade helping people understand why protecting the ocean matters and, more importantly, showing them that anyone can be part of the solution. Our conversation explores what changemakers can learn from science communication, why conservation is ultimately about understanding people as much as ecosystems, and how genuine curiosity, storytelling, and community are often the most powerful tools we have for creating lasting change. Whether you're passionate about environmental issues or simply interested in becoming a more effective changemaker, this episode offers practical lessons about communicating complex ideas, building movements, and helping people care about the world around them. About Our Guest: The ocean can feel distant from everyday life, particularly if you don't live near the coast. Yet every second breath we take is made possible by the ocean, and its health shapes everything from our climate and food systems to weather patterns and biodiversity. Marine biologist and science communicator Andrew Lewin has spent more than a decade helping people understand why protecting the ocean matters and, more importantly, showing them that anyone can be part of the solution. Our conversation explores what changemakers can learn from science communication, why conservation is ultimately about understanding people as much as ecosystems, and how genuine curiosity, storytelling, and community are often the most powerful tools we have for creating lasting change. Whether you're passionate about environmental issues or simply interested in becoming a more effective changemaker, this episode offers practical lessons about communicating complex ideas, building movements, and helping people care about the world around them. About Our Guest: Andrew Lewin is an Ocean Communications Manager at Pisces Oceans, marine biologist, science communicator, and passionate advocate for making ocean conservation accessible to everyone. He is the host of How to Protect the Ocean and co-host of Beyond Jaws , where he connects audiences with marine science, conservation, shark research, and the people working to protect our oceans. Through nearly 2,000 podcast episodes and years of science communication, Andrew has developed a particular interest in translating complex environmental issues into conversations that help people understand why the ocean matters and how they can take meaningful action. At the heart of his work is a simple belief: protecting the ocean starts with helping people build a genuine connection with it—and empowering communities to become part of the solution. Read the accompanying article for this podcast episode here. Join the Changemaker Q&A Community & ASK YOUR QUESTIONS HERE If you find this podcast valuable, it would really help us out to leave a rating & review wherever you're listening. Social Impact Foundations FREE Training Bundle Follow HCN on Instagram @humanitarianchangemakers Follow Tiyana on Instagram: @tiyanaj The views expressed in this podcast are those of Tiyana J & guests and are not reflective of all members of the Humanitarian Changemakers Network.
