In this episode of "Doing What Works: Exploring the Blue Economy," host Ashanti Blaize-Hopkins and guests Torre Polizzi and Leslie Booher delve into the world of aquaculture, specifically focusing on their company, Sunken Seaweed. Torre and Leslie share their journey from studying marine biology to founding a seaweed farming business and discuss the potential and challenges of the blue economy. They highlight the importance of seaweed aquaculture for environmental restoration, economic growth, and community development in California. The episode explores the dream state for the blue economy, hurdles to overcome, and lessons learned from successful initiatives like the Port of San Diego's blue economy program.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
- The potential of seaweed aquaculture for environmental restoration and economic growth.
- The challenges and opportunities in starting a seaweed farming business in California.
- The importance of collaboration and innovative policies in fostering the growth of the blue economy.
- The role of education in preparing the workforce for careers in aquaculture and marine conservation.
- The vision for a sustainable and inclusive blue economy in California and beyond.
About Our Guests
Torre Polizzi and Leslie Booher are the driving forces behind Get Inspired, an organization dedicated to connecting people with the ocean through impactful storytelling and educational initiatives. Torre, a skilled underwater cinematographer and science communicator, brings the wonders of the marine world to life through captivating visuals. Leslie, a marine biologist and educator, focuses on fostering ocean literacy and inspiring the next generation of ocean stewards. Their combined expertise creates powerful narratives that significantly impact promoting conservation and sustainable practices.
Impactful Quotes
"We have the ability to be really aggressive with ocean conservation policy while still facilitating meaningful aquaculture coming in."
– Leslie Booher
"My parents owned a family restaurant, so my first job ever was dishwashing, lots and lots of dishes. And I don't know if that exactly taught me too much, but it gave me a good work ethic and taught me how to be somewhere on time and how to work under some pressure."
– Torre Polizzi
"Aquaculture seaweed and other aquaculture becomes accessible to all interested and not just accessible to folks that have studied, have a master's in aquaculture, etc."
– Leslie Booher
"We've got so much potential to do good things for our coastlines and our oceans."
– Torre Polizzi
