The Stories We Tell

Sea stories from ancient oral traditions to modern-day pirates

The ocean has been a source of inspiration throughout human history. Where did we come from? What’s over the horizon? How does our planet work? Join us to learn how different storytelling traditions have helped inform and enrich our knowledge about ourselves and our planet for generations.

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Season 2, Episode 3
Originally aired October 7, 2020

Speakers & Host:

Amy Bower

Senior Scientist and Physical Oceanographer, WHOI

Skip Finley

Author and Historian

Tobias Vanderhoop

Aquinnah Wampanoag Storyteller

Veronique Lacapra

Host and Director of Special Projects, WHOI

SEASONS All Climate & Weather How the Ocean Works Ocean & Human Lives Ocean Life Ocean Tech Sustainable Ocean

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Rethinking Ocean Predators

The ocean is home to many of Earth’s most iconic and often feared predators. But did you know that some of the largest are actually gentle giants that feed on the tiniest prey?

Season 8, Episode 1

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An Ocean of Sound

Communication, soundscapes, and noise under the sea

Season 7, Episode 3

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Small but Mighty

Microscopic marine life and its outsized role in the ocean

Season 6, Episode 4

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Seabirds

Season 6, Episode 1

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Becoming a Marine Biologist

What it takes, and where it can take you

Season 5, Episode 6

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Jellies — The surprising role of gelatinous creatures in ocean and human health

The surprising role of gelatinous creatures in ocean and human health

Season 5, Episode 2

Hydrothermal vents Ocean Encounters event title

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Hydrothermal Vents

Like geysers and hot springs on land, hydrothermal vents form in volcanic regions on the ocean bottom, gushing hot, mineral-rich fluids from beneath the seafloor.

Season 5, Episode 1

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Giving Reefs a Chance

Coral reefs are in trouble. We have already lost more than half of the world’s reefs in just 50 years, while climate change, pollution, and other stressors continue to decimate what remains of these biodiverse and beautiful ecosystems.

Season 4, Episode 4

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Seaweed Solutions

As our climate continues to change and food insecurity grows worldwide, scientists and others are looking to solve these problems without harming marine ecosystems.

Season 4, Episode 1

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Weirdly Wonderful: Creatures of the Twilight Zone

The twilight zone is a place of wonder, mystery, and abundance that reminds us our choices mean the difference between a future of loss and sustainability.

Season 3, Episode 5

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Alvin: Ocean Discovery at New Depths

Hear from a volcanologist, a marine biologist, and Alvin’s senior pilot about how the iconic sub enables scientific discovery in the far reaches of Earth’s ocean.

Season 3, Episode 4

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Saving the North Atlantic Right Whale

The North Atlantic right whale is one of the most endangered whales in the world, with an estimated 340 left on the planet. How can we explore partnerships and solutions for their survival?

Season 3, Episode 2