New Tide Talk Podcast Is Making Waves with a Fresh Look at USCB Research
The University of South Carolina Beaufort has launched Tide Talk, a new podcast diving into vibrant coastal ecology and marine biology research unfolding across the Lowcountry and beyond. Produced by USCB students collaborating with faculty, Tide Talk brings science to life through candid, engaging conversations with researchers, students, and local experts who are passionate about understanding and protecting coastal ecosystems.
Hosted by Dr. Joe Staton, USCB Professor of Biology and Marine Science. the podcast is a team effort powered by Piper Davis (Biology, '25), student editor Taylor DeSilva, and executive producer Dr. Caroline Sawyer, associated professor of Communication Studies. They produce the podcast at on USCB's Bluffton campus.
“We explore the stories, people and passions that shape research,” Staton said. “We’re showcasing the groundbreaking work happening right here in our backyard—and now, even internationally.”
So far, three episodes are live.
Episode one:
- Introduces listeners to Pritchards Island, USCB's pristine research island and highlights studies being conducted there. Students and faculty are studying maternal DNA in loggerhead sea turtles, barrier island erosion patterns, bottlenose dolphin populations and more.
Episode two:
- Describes USCB's partnership with the Port Royal Sound Foundation (PRSF) and environmental education and conservation efforts spearheaded by the non-profit PRSF. Guests include Sarah Bourne, a USCB marine biology student who works in the university's Water Quality Lab; Dr. Tye Pettay, who directs the lab, and Chris Kehrer, science program manager at the Port Royal Sound Foundation.
Episode three :
- Takes listeners beyond the shores of the Lowcountry to the turquoise waters of San Salvador, Bahamas. Titled “Fieldwork in Paradise,” the episode features Dr. Kim Ritchie, associate professor of Natural Sciences, who created USCB’s immersive study abroad course Natural History of the Bahamas, hosted at the Gerace Research Center. Dr. Ritchie shares how her own undergraduate experience at the research station inspired the program, which introduces students to coral reefs, seagrass beds, iguanas, stromatolites, and more—no scuba certification required.
- Piper Davis, who participated in this field study in 2024, reflects on her time snorkeling with reef sharks, exploring iguana islands, and interviewing Kathy Gerace, co-founder of the Gerace Research Center. “This trip reignited my passion for biology and gave me a sense of purpose in the field,” said Davis.
A forthcoming episode—recorded on location at the Gerace Research Center during last month’s field study—will feature student-led interviews, natural soundscapes, and immersive storytelling from the heart of the Bahamas. It promises a vivid audio experience that captures the group's spirit of discovery, cultural exchange and ecological exploration.
With its blend of scientific insight, student voices, and compelling storytelling, Tide Talk is already drawing attention. Dr. Staton, Dr. Sawyer, Davis, and DeSilva have been selected to present the podcast at the Higher Ed Podcast Conference, a national event spotlighting innovation in academic media.
Tide Talk is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and through the USCB website. Whether you're a student, researcher or nature lover, each episode offers a meaningful look at the science and stewardship shaping South Carolina’s coastal—and now international—ecosystems.
To tune in, search “Tide Talk USCB” on your favorite podcast platform or listen at Tide Talk.
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CW 04/29/25