Paramount Importance

In this episode, Winthrop Professor Marc Tennant, Chair of the Academic Board at The University of Western Australia, is one of Australia’s leading voices in public health dentistry. With over three decades dedicated to tackling health inequality, Marc has helped transform how dental care is delivered, especially for rural, remote, and disadvantaged communities across Australia.From teaching generations of dentists since the 1980s to driving the expansion of regional dental schools, his work has had a direct impact on access to care, shifting outcomes for some of the most vulnerable populations.But this conversation goes far beyond policy.We dive into the fascinating science of teeth, the surprising power of fluoride, and how something as simple as brushing your teeth can prevent serious disease. Marc unpacks the hidden link between oral health and socioeconomic inequality, shares practical tips that could save your teeth, and reveals the future of dentistry.This is a conversation about more than teeth, it’s

Dr Narelle Dybing is a parasitologist whose research investigates the hidden world of parasites and the role they play in wildlife health, invasive species ecology and biosecurity. After completing her PhD at Murdoch University, her work has focused on parasites carried by invasive animals such as feral cats, foxes, rats and wild dogs, helping to uncover how these often-overlooked organisms move through ecosystems and the risks they can pose to wildlife, livestock and even people. In this episode we explore the fascinating and sometimes unsettling world of parasites. Drawing on years of field and laboratory research, Dr Dybing shares stories from dissecting feral animals across Western Australia to investigating parasites on remote Christmas Island. Her work reveals that invasive species don’t just impact ecosystems through predation, they can also carry hidden pathogens and parasites capable of affecting native wildlife and altering ecological balance. We discuss the complex life cycles of parasites, zoonoti

WE DID IT! The world’s first live underwater podcast — hosted by Kurt Krispyn — went to air on February 27th at 10am, broadcast directly from a seagrass meadow off Rottnest Island for World Seagrass Day. Our seagrass expert and underwater guest was Associate Professor Mike van Keulen from Murdoch University. Mike is the chair of the IUCN Seagrass Specialist Group, Academic Chair of Marine Biology and Dean of Environmental of Conservation Sciences. With decades of experience Mike is the perfect person to speak to about seagrass.We streamed live into more than 12 schools and reaching viewers across the globe, the conversation was all about shining a light on our vital seagrass ecosystems — raising awareness, sharing science, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible when research meets technology.This milestone was made possible through the incredible innovation of Jason Maley, whose cutting-edge underwater system allows video, audio, and live streaming across platforms beneath the surface (connectingeyesto

In this episode, I chat with spider researchers Dr. André Wanderley do Prado and Dr. Pedro de Souza Castanheira to explore the remarkable and often misunderstood world of spiders. André and Pedro share their journey from researching Brazil’s dense, biodiverse forests to working hands-on with Western Australia’s unique species at the WA Museum, where live specimens, fieldwork, and careful taxonomy all play a role in uncovering new insights into arachnid life.We dive into what it is like to work with venomous species, why spider diversity is so much higher in some regions than others, and how museum collections help scientists trace evolution, behaviour, and ecological change. Along the way, André and Pedro break down common myths, highlight the surprising beauty and complexity of spiders, and reveal what these tiny predators can teach us about our rapidly changing planet.

In this episode Kurt dives into the wild coastline of Western Australia with whale researchers Katy Fannei and Max Fabry, two scientists who built a groundbreaking whale-monitoring program from scratch, fueled by passion, volunteers, and community pilots.From flying light aircraft over 450 km of coastline to navigating remote beaches with drones and 4WDs, Katharina and Max reveal how a chance meeting led to a unique collaboration linking whale behavior with estuaries, drones, and citizen science. Discover how storm-driven estuary openings may shape whale movements, hear incredible close-encounter stories with southern right whales and great white sharks, and learn how community-powered science can unlock secrets of our oceans.It is science in the sky and surf, equal parts inspiring, adventurous, and awe-filled. Tune in to explore the frontier where whales, people, and place meet.

In this episode, I am joined by Professor Treena Burgess, Executive Director of the Harry Butler Institute at Murdoch University, and one of the world’s foremost experts on Phytophthora, to unravel the fascinating biology and devastating impact of this plant pathogen. Together, they explore what makes it so persistent, how it spreads, and why climate change and human activity have amplified its reach.From the challenges of containment and restoration to new research uncovering potential resistance and soil microbiome defenses, this conversation shines a light on both the scale of the problem and the growing hope for solutions.Whether you’re a scientist, conservationist, or simply someone who loves the Australian bush, this episode offers a powerful look at how one tiny organism can reshape an entire ecosystem and what we can do to protect what remains.

In this episode, I sit down with Professor Jennifer Verduin, Oceanographer and Pro Vice Chancellor at Murdoch University, with a passion for seagrass. Fresh from an expedition to Antarctica as part of a global leadership program for women in STEMM, Jennifer shares what it was like to stand among thousands of penguins, witness icebergs the size of cities, and confront the stark realities of a changing climate.Together, we explore the emotional and scientific impact of seeing global warming up close, the interconnectedness of Earth’s oceans, and how collaboration between scientists and policymakers can help protect our planet’s most fragile ecosystems. From tales of whales and glaciers to reflections on leadership, eco-grief, and hope, this conversation captures both the awe and urgency of protecting our blue planet.

In a world shaped by headlines, algorithms, and endless scrolls, who really controls the narrative?Associate Professor Tauel Harper, media scholar at Murdoch University, joins Kurt Krispyn to unpack the complex intersections of democracy, persuasion, and misinformation. From political spin and media ownership to social media’s sway over truth and trust, they explore how our beliefs are shaped, and how we can sharpen our critical thinking in an age of constant noise.A thought-provoking conversation on free speech, manipulation, and the power of genuine understanding, a reminder that meaningful change starts with awareness.

Conversation Between Trees wasn’t just another podcast recording; it was a moment that redefined the idea of the public lecture, a tradition that has been with us for centuries. Hosted by the Harry Butler Institute at Murdoch University, this was the first live podcast I’ve ever done, and it was an experience that meant so much to both Rachel and me.Together, in front of a vibrant, engaged audience, we celebrated Rachel’s promotion to Professor while weaving science, storytelling, and laughter into something entirely new. Unlike the classic lecture format, this conversation unfolded in real time, unscripted, alive, bringing listeners and the audience into the heart of what science communication can be.This event marked a new way of sharing knowledge, bridging the deep roots of academic tradition with the dynamic immediacy of podcasting. For Rachel and me, it was more than a recording; it was a night that blended community, history, and innovation into one unforgettable exchange.

In a completely different field of science that I am used to, I sit down with clinical sexologist Melissa Hadley Barrett to talk about the science of sexual health and wellbeing. Melissa shares her expertise on common misconceptions around libido, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer recovery, the role of hormones, and how lifestyle factors influence intimacy.The discussion highlights the importance of open conversation, evidence-based care, and a broader understanding of sexual health as an essential component of overall quality of life. This episode is designed to educate, challenge stigma, and provide listeners with a clearer perspective on the science behind sex, relationships and their own bodies, because things change when you get older. 

Cyclones are among the planet’s most powerful forces- reshaping coastlines, reefs, and ecosystems with every storm. Dr. Marji Puotinen, a spatial ecological data scientist from the Australian Institute of Marine Science, joins Paramount Importance to break down what cyclones really are, how they form, why they differ from hurricanes and typhoons, and what they mean for coral reefs, migratory animals, and our changing climate.From the physics of waves and storm tracks to the surprising ways cyclones can both damage and protect reefs, Marji explains the science in a way that’s accessible and engaging. We also explore how climate change is altering cyclone behaviour, and why understanding these storms is essential for the future of our oceans.

In this episode, I sit down with Mark Synnott legendary professional climber, author, National Geographic Explorer, and member of The North Face Global Athlete Team. One of the most prolific big-wall first ascensionists of his generation, Mark has pioneered routes on some of the most remote and untouched cliffs on Earth. He has climbed Yosemite’s El Capitan alongside Alex Honnold, summited Everest, searched the mountain’s north face for Sandy Irvine’s lost camera, and even spent seven years living in a Yosemite cave to master his craft.Mark’s expeditions span the Arctic, Baffin Island, the jungles of South America, and the frozen peaks of the Himalaya. He has led groundbreaking projects for National Geographic, Disney, and Netflix—discovering the elusive pebble toad on Venezuela’s tepuis and probing the mystery of the Franklin Expedition in the Canadian Arctic. As an author, his acclaimed books The Impossible Climb and The Third Pole weave gripping adventure with deep reflections on why humans risk everything

Dive into the deep past of our oceans with evolutionary biologist Dr. Axelandre Siqueira, whose work uncovers the origins and transformations of coral reef fishes over millions of years. From rare fossil records to cutting-edge genetic research, Alexandra explains how mass extinctions, shifting climates, and reef expansion shaped the dazzling diversity of species we see today.In this wide-ranging conversation, we explore how fish evolved new feeding strategies, why coral reefs act as “fish factories,” and what ancient ecosystems can teach us about resilience in a warming world. Alexandre also shares his personal journey from inland Brazil to some of the most unique reefs on the planet, offering a fascinating perspective on science, discovery, and the wonder of marine life.Whether you’re obsessed with fish ID or just curious about life beneath the waves, this episode reveals how evolution’s grand story is written in the scales and shapes of reef fishes.

What happens when massive oil and gas platforms reach the end of their life? Are they just scrapped or could they become thriving artificial reefs?In this episode, Kurt sits down with marine ecologist Dr. Sean Van Elden, Deputy Director at the Marine Futures Lab at the University of Western Australia, to dive into the hidden world of decommissioned rigs and their surprising role as oases of marine life. From coral growth on steel legs to turtles, sharks, and even unexpected behaviours caught on underwater cameras, Sean reveals how these towering structures shape ecosystems and the complex debates around whether to remove them or let them live on as reefs.This conversation unpacks the science, the politics, and the awe-inspiring moments that come with studying life around these industrial giants. It’s a fascinating look at how human infrastructure can unintentionally create new habitats and what that means for the future of our oceans.

Step into the strange and fascinating world of marsupials and megafauna with Associate Professor Natalie Warburton, a comparative anatomist and paleontologist at Murdoch University. From tiny jellybean-sized joeys crawling into pouches, to giant wombats and kangaroos that once roamed Australia, Natalie reveals the evolutionary secrets written in bones. We explore bizarre adaptations like termite-eating numbats, the underground world of marsupial moles, and even tree-climbing kangaroos on the Nullarbor. This episode dives deep into how fossils unlock Australia’s unique evolutionary story, the surprising anatomy of marsupials, and what these discoveries teach us about life on an isolated continent. Science, storytelling, and a touch of wonder – this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 

In this special episode, marine scientist and host Kurt returns from a five-week sailing adventure through some of the most remote islands of the Pacific Ocean. From towering volcanic islands to pristine coral atolls, he shares how the journey reshaped his perception of the vast blue ocean, through to diving the 'Shark Wall' in Fakarava. There are breathtaking encounters with Humphead wrasse, revered as “kings of the reef,” lessons learned spearfishing Dogtooth tuna, and a surprising experience joining a local French Polynesian spearfishing competition that was nothing like he imagined.Back on shore, the conversation shifts to his new PhD journey, focused on classifying and conserving the unique estuaries of Western Australia. He reveals why these ecosystems are overlooked despite their vital role, the challenges of funding field research, and his vision for making science accessible, exciting, and impactful. Adventure, culture, conservation, and cutting-edge science all converge in a story that wil

After six years, shark scientist Dr. Oliver Jewell returns to the mic with an epic deep dive into the world of sharks. From surviving the global pandemic bubble in Western Australia to uncovering a jaw-dropping great white migration from South Africa to Indonesia, Oliver shares wild stories from the field, including camera tags, bull sharks in rivers, and surprising discoveries about shark behavior, social dynamics, and mysterious migrations.We explore why tiger sharks are turning up in unexpected places, how a shark can eat a whole bull shark, and whether great whites have personalities (spoiler: some don’t get along!). With mind-blowing science, global fieldwork, and real conservation insights, this episode is packed with energy, laughs, and revelations.A must-listen for shark lovers, marine science nerds, and anyone who's ever wondered what's lurking below the surface.

Animal Welfare, Captivity, and the Hidden Costs of the Exotic Pet Trade.  Dr. Phil Arena, biologist, academic, and animal welfare expert, for a deep and wide-ranging conversation on the complex moral landscape of human-animal relationships. With decades of experience in both fieldwork and ethical inquiry, Dr. Arena sheds light on the unseen suffering of reptiles, amphibians, and exotic animals in private collections and institutions alike. He explains how outdated “folklore husbandry”, the repetition of unscientific pet-keeping practices — continues to drive poor welfare outcomes, especially for snakes, lizards, and turtles.This episode dives deep into:Why 75% of reptiles die within their first year in captivityHow myths in the pet trade lead to inadequate enclosures and misunderstood needsThe concept of “control deprivation” and why space and environmental complexity matter for captive animalsHow animals like skinks, pythons, and crocodiles exhibit stress, social hierarchies, and even play behaviourThe illeg

In this episode of I sit down with my supervisor, mentor, and globally respected estuarine ecologist, Dr. James Tweedley senior lecturer at Murdoch University, for a deep and wide-ranging conversation about one of the most overlooked yet critically important ecosystems on Earth: estuaries.From the moment I stepped into his lab as an undergrad, James completely changed the way I saw the world—turning what I once thought were just “dirty puddles” into ecosystems that are dynamic, essential, and fascinating. In this episode, we explore why estuaries matter—ecologically, economically, and culturally—and unpack some of the challenges scientists face when even defining what an estuary is.We cover topics like nutrient cycling, fish nurseries, freshwater inflows, tidal limits, and ecosystem services, as well as broader discussions around human impacts, legislation, climate threats, and the global estuary squeeze. Whether you’re a scientist, student, policymaker, or just someone who loves the coast, this conversation

What is a parasite, and why do they matter? In this deeply engaging and unexpectedly funny episode, Associate Lecturer and Parasitologist Dr. Storm Martin from Murdoch University dives headfirst into the weird and wonderful world of parasitism. From fish tongue-biters to feather lice, from malaria to zombie snails, we explore what defines a parasite, how parasites shape entire ecosystems, and why most of Earth’s biodiversity might actually be parasitic.Storm breaks down the evolutionary origins and mind-blowing complexity of parasite life cycles (including the ones that require three hosts and a heron), the difference between parasites and predators, and why losing parasites might signal the collapse of an ecosystem.Whether you're a biologist, ecologist, or just curious, this episode will challenge your assumptions and make you rethink everything you thought you knew about life, death, and worms.