In this episode of South Pole, host Clark Marchese interviews Dr. Javier Arata, a marine biologist specializing in fisheries management in Antarctica. They delve into the sustainable harvesting of Antarctic krill, a crucial species supporting ecosystems for penguins, seals, and whales. Dr. Arata shares his experiences as a scientific observer, his work with CCAMLR, and his role in promoting responsible practices through the Association for Responsible Krill Harvesting Companies. They discuss...

In this episode, we sink our teeth into the Antarctic food web with marine ecologist Dr. Jose Xavier. Dr. Xavier, an expert in predator-prey interactions in the Southern Ocean, shares his insights on the complex relationships between species like penguins, squid, and krill. The conversation explores how biodiversity supports ecosystem resilience and how climate change threatens these delicate food webs. Dr. Xavier also discusses his research on squid beaks, the impact of climate change on top...

In this episode of South Pole, we explore the use of satellite imagery to track Weddell seals and Emperor penguins in Antarctica. Dr. Michelle LaRue, a leading researcher in the field, explains how high-resolution imagery from space provides crucial insights into these marine predators' populations, habitats, and behaviors. We dive into the challenges of studying wildlife remotely, the surprises in population estimates, and the innovative Satellites Over Seals (SOS) project. Tune in to...

In this episode of South Pole, we learn about sea level rise with Dr. Heiko Goelzer, an expert in ice sheet modeling at the Norwegian Research Center, to explore the dynamics of Antarctica's ice sheets and their contribution to rising sea levels. The conversation delves into the differences between ice sheets, ice shelves, sea ice, and icebergs, while addressing the potential 57-meter sea-level rise if all Antarctic ice melted. Dr. Goelzer explains the complex climate tipping points related...

Join us on South Pole as we explore the adventures of Lincoln Ellsworth, the first person to fly across Antarctica. Author Jeff Maynard shares insights from his book, "Antarctica's Lost Aviator," revealing Ellsworth's pioneering spirit, personal challenges, and the significant yet overlooked contributions to antarctic exploration. Discover the fascinating interplay of adventure, historical context, and queer history in this captivating episode. Listen in as we delve into the life of an...

In this episode of South Pole, host Clark Marchese interviews Dr. Soledad Leonardi, a parasitologist at the National Research Council in Argentina, about her research on the fascinating interactions between elephant seals and seal lice in Antarctica. They discuss the coevolution of these species, the role of seal lice in disease transmission, and how these parasites have adapted to the extreme conditions of the Southern Ocean. Dr. Leonardi also shares insights into how climate change could...

This episode delves into the intriguing world of astrophysics and cosmic research in Antarctica. Featuring Dr. Jim Madsen, interim director of the Wisconsin IceCube Particle Astrophysics Center, the episode explores the fascinating work of the IceCube Neutrino Observatory. Discover the differences between astronomy and astrophysics, the significance of neutrinos, and the unique advantages of conducting cosmic research at the South Pole. Dr. Madsen shares insights on how studying these...

In this episode of "South Pole," host Clark Marchese is joined by Dr. Meagan Dewar, a wildlife disease specialist from Federation University Australia, to explore the alarming spread of avian influenza to Antarctica. Dr. Dewar shares insights into how this disease has reached such remote regions, its impact on local wildlife, and the ongoing research aimed at understanding and mitigating its spread. As they discuss the broader implications of wildlife diseases exacerbated by human activity...

In this captivating episode of "South Pole," host Clark Marchese explores the profound impact of Antarctic literature on public perceptions of the icy continent. Joined by Dr. Elizabeth Leane, a scholar who bridges the worlds of science and literature, they delve into how novels, poetry, and other media have historically shaped our understanding of Antarctica. From early gothic influences to modern environmental concerns, discover how fictional depictions influence real-world views and...

Join us on South Pole as we delve into the fascinating world of pelagic notothenioids, genomics, climate change, and the Southern Ocean. Hosted by Clark Marchese, this episode features marine biologist Dr. Jilda Alicia Caccavo from the Institut Pierre Simon Laplace in Paris. Discover why these unique fish are vital to the Antarctic ecosystem, how they evolved to survive in frigid waters, and the significance of their antifreeze proteins and white blood. Dr. Caccavo explains how studying their...

Join us on "South Pole," where host Clark Marchese explores the unexpected presence of plastic in Antarctica. Today's guest, Dr. Clara Manno, a marine ecologist at the British Antarctic Survey, discusses the extensive pollution reaching even the most remote ecosystems. Learn about the various forms of plastic infiltrating the Antarctic environment, their pathways, and the profound impacts on local wildlife and ecological functions. This episode highlights the urgent need for global...

In this episode of South Pole, host Clark Marchese engages with Dr. Elin Darelius, an esteemed physical oceanographer, to unravel the complex behaviors of Antarctica’s ice shelves. Together, they explore the vital interactions between the ice shelves and the Southern Ocean, illuminating their pivotal role in regulating the global climate and the serious implications of their melting. Dr. Darelius sheds light on the distinctions between ice shelves and ice sheets, discussing how the melting of...

In this enlightening episode of South Pole, host Clark Marchese takes us above the icy landscapes of Antarctica for a closer look at its less-celebrated but equally fascinating avian residents—albatrosses and petrels. Join us as we explore the crucial roles these seabirds play in the Antarctic ecosystem and how their behaviors provide insights into climate change and environmental health. Our guest, Dr. Richard Phillips, a seasoned seabird ecologist from the British Antarctic Survey, shares...

Join host Clark Marchese in this enlightening episode of "South Pole," the podcast that delves deep into the fascinating history and enduring mysteries of Antarctica. In today’s show, we explore the extensive and multifaceted history of the world’s coldest continent. Clark is joined by Dr. Ursula Rack, a distinguished polar historian from the University of Canterbury, who shares intriguing stories from her research on Antarctic expeditions. From the earliest Indigenous connections to the...

 In the inaugural episode of "South Pole" starts the series off with a deep dive into public engagement with Antarctica. Joined by Dr. Katie Marx, an Antarctic social scientist and tour guide, the conversation explores the unique relationship people around the world have with this icy continent. From the concept of Gateway Cities like Hobart to the profound social interactions among those who travel or work there, this episode sheds light on how Antarctica is much more than a remote...

South Pole is the Podcast that explores all things Antarctica. Whether you’re a polar enthusiast or simply curious about the icy expanse, South Pole has something for you.  Throughout the series, frozen landscapes are brought to life by discussing a broad range of topics. From the towering glaciers and sprawling ice sheets to the unique wildlife like elephant seals and penguins, each episode unpacks the science behind this frigid frontier. But that's not all—prepare to dive into episodes...