Into the Abyss: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Deep Ocean with Dr. Sönke Johnsen

The Not Old - Better Show

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today’s episode is truly special. We are diving—quite literally—into one of the most mysterious, vast, and awe-inspiring environments on our planet: the open ocean. Our guest today, Smithsonian Associate Dr. Sönke Johnsen, a distinguished oceanographer and professor of biology, will guide us on this incredible journey. Please check out our show notes and the Smithsonian Associates website for more details on Dr. Sönke Johnsen’s upcoming Smithsonian Associates presentation titled ’The Great Wide Ocean.’

Smithsonian Associate Dr. Sönke Johnsen has spent his career exploring the world far beyond the shore,

where sunlight disappears, and the rules of survival defy everything we know. From bioluminescent creatures that light up the abyss to translucent animals so clear they become invisible to predators, the open ocean is teeming with life forms that are as bizarre as they are fascinating. But this fragile ecosystem is under threat from human activity and climate change, and Dr. Johnsen's work reveals both its beauty and the urgent need to protect it.

His latest book, available at Apple Books, Into the Great Wide Ocean, gives us an intimate look at how these deep-sea creatures thrive in the face of crushing pressures, extreme darkness, and the constant battle for survival. Through vivid storytelling and groundbreaking research, Dr. Johnsen opens our eyes to the wonders hidden beneath the waves.

Today, we’ll hear firsthand about his daring expeditions, the breathtaking discoveries, and the challenges of working in such a formidable and enigmatic environment. Prepare to be amazed as we explore what Dr. Johnsen calls “the last great frontier on Earth.”

Please check out our show notes and the Smithsonian Associates website for more details on Dr. Sönke Johnsen’s upcoming Smithsonian Associates presentation titled ’The Great Wide Ocean.’ My thanks, always, to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show. My ongoing thanks to excutive producer Sam Heninger, and my thanks to you, our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast. Be well, be safe and Let’s Talk About Better™. The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast.

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