32- Marine Conservation Without a Degree? How to Do It w/ Maddie Howarth

Have you ever dreamed of working in marine conservation or diving with manta rays? But you don't have a science degree? In this episode, your host Clara Francken speaks with Maddie Howarth, a passionate scuba diver, content creator, and ocean advocate, who proves you don’t need a marine biology degree to make waves for the planet.

From a high school dream to filming dolphin research and marine wild life in Greece to diving Australia’s Great Barrier Reef - Maddie shares her journey of combining creativity and conservation. We talk about finding ethical conservation programs, what greenwashing looks like, how social media can support ocean activism, and what to do when you're seasick but still obsessed with the sea.

This episode is a beautiful mix of inspiring stories, practical advice, and honest conversations about purpose, privilege, and protecting what we love.

If you're curious about ocean work and need tips on how to get into volunteering and conservation opportunities, this episode is for you!

Connect with Maddie Howarth

• Watch her videos on YouTube
• Connect on Instagram

Chapters

• 0:00 From Creative Dreams to Ocean Activism
• 8:57 First Internship in Greece: Nerves, Growth & Purpose
• 17:24 Winning a Spot on the Great Barrier Reef Project
• 25:11 Rapid Fire: Marine Life Edition
• 28:30 Green and Red Flags in Conservation Programs
• 40:13 Memorable Stories and Why your Passion is Enough