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Shark Stories

Madison Stewart

Welcome to Shark Stories, the podcast that dives beneath the surface of one of the ocean’s most misunderstood creatures. Hosted by award-winning shark conservationist and filmmaker Madison Stewart, this show transforms her years of underwater exploration, frontline conservation, and encounters with both sharks and shark fishermen into captivating, eye-opening stories. Whether you're shark-obsessed or simply shark-curious, dive deep into an interview with the world's most famous shark hunter, hear from a navy diver turned cyborg after a shark attack learn about Shark attack First Aid or policy battles and conservation wins. You’ll hear firsthand what it means to coexist with predators, challenge fear with facts, and turn storytelling into action. Through raw conversations and real experiences, this podcast gives sharks a voice and gives you the tools to protect them, no matter where you live. Forget what you thought you knew about sharks. This is their story and yours.

 

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  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 58 min
  • English

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  • S4 · E9
    June 23 · 1 hr 8 min

    TIGER SHARKS EAT PEOPLE - with Richard Fitzpatrick

    An uncomfortable episode designed to being us all back to reality and discuss the darksides of sharks and the trauma around shark attacks. I bring back legend RichardFitzpatrick to discuss. Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S4 · E8
    April 23 · 1 hr 7 min

    Why Do We Cull Sharks? With Kate Sheridan

    In this conversation, biologist Kate Sheridan discusses her extensive experience in wildlife conservation, focusing on sharks and human-wildlife coexistence. She emphasizes the importance of ethical wildlife organizations, the psychology behind public perception of shark risks, and the effectiveness of various shark management strategies. Our talks highlight the need for transparency in conservation funding and the role of media in shaping public attitudes towards sharks. Ultimately, the conversation advocates for a balanced understanding of sharks as apex predators that require respect and coexistence rather than fear and lethal control. Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S4 · E7
    April 16 · 20 min

    BLOOD IN THE WATER: Can You Swim With Sharks on Your Period?

    This episode is designed to provide you with all the information on swimming with sharks on your period. If you’re a seasoned diver, a shark expert, or someone that’s never swum with sharks before, male or female, this is a great episode for you. And if you’ve ever entered the water on your period, let’s talk about how that monthly magic affects the apex predators around us. Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S4 · E6
    January 23 · 1 hr 36 min

    BONUS EPISODE: YEAH THE BOYS – TAGGING TIGERS

    Recorded on location during our 2025 shark tagging mission, I took my mic out to sea with 4 shark fishing boats on the never-ending search for answers on Indonesian tiger shark populations. Hear it from the fishermen themselves, scientist Dr Chelsea Black, shark handler Tanner Mansell (from the Felon episode), Cameraman Israel & yours truly- be right there in the field with us… with this episode. Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S4 · E5
    January 22 · 1 hr 30 min

    DEADLY 60 & SHARKS - The Steve Backshall Shark Story

    Chatting with my childhood hero and inspiration Steve Backshall, as we explore the profound impact of wildlife documentaries, particularly 'Deadly 60' on conservation awareness. We discuss his personal experiences with sharks, the importance of inspiring young conservationists, the role of social media in shaping public perception of sharks and the ethical considerations surrounding shark tagging. Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S4 · E4
    January 9 · 28 min

    SHARK FACTS: A Rant And Your Horror Stories Diving With Sharks

    Join me & only me as I read out some of your hilarious horror stories from diving with sharks & jump into some amazing shark facts about the six gill shark species... Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S4 · E3
    January 2 · 1 hr

    Are Sharks Social?

    In this conversationwe interview badass jiu-jitsu blackbeltshark scientist Yannis Papastamatiou, exploring the profound influence of the film Jaws on shark science, the ground breaking research conducted at the Shark Lab, and the fascinating social structures of sharks. We discuss the importance of technology in studying shark behaviour, the impact of human activity on shark populations, and the unique personalities of different shark species. Yannis shares valuable advice for aspiring scientists and emphasizes the need for a broader understanding of marine ecosystems and conservation efforts. Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S4 · E2
    Dec 26, 2025 · 1 hr 18 min

    Project Hiu

    A deep dive into my work in Indonesia, Project Hiu is my mission to repropose a fleet of sharkfishing vesselsin Indonesiain tourism, saving sharks but also changing the way we look at shark fishermen. On this episode, I answer your questions about the project written in on Instagram, the highs & the lows, who my favourite shark fishermen is and “how do I pronounce Hiu?” Website www.projecthiu.com Social media @projecthiu Introduction film: https://youtu.be/3I2tTNGU8-A?feature=sharedEpisode3 Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S4 · E1
    Dec 11, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min

    Valerie Taylor - Blue Water White Death, Jaws, & Meeting Brad Pitt

    One of the most influential ocean conservationists and underwater filmmakers of our time, with a career spanning more than six decades, Valerie has helped reshape theworld’s understanding of sharks and marine life. From her early days as a champion spearfisher to becoming a pioneering diver, photographer, and conservation advocate, she has played an instrumental role in changing public perception of sharks from mindless killers to misunderstood, essential predators. This episode is dedicated to the wise words of the greatest female shark diver to have ever lived. Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S3 · E9
    Jul 27, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min

    Bonus Episode: ALISHA - The Great White Discovery

    In 2024, Project Hiu becomes entangled in a wild goose chase to track down the owners of a retrieved shark tag, only to discover it was the key to uncovering the longest recorded migration of a white shark, all the way from South Africa to Indonesia. Read the paper here: https://www.publish.csiro.au/WR/justaccepted/WR24145 Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S3 · E7
    Jul 8, 2025 · 1 hr 15 min

    Shark First Aid - For Divers

    This is the second episode I have done about shark first aid, the first one acting as an extension to my surfing guide to sharks… and this one expanding on the topic to not only focus on potential attacks of surfers, but those we face in the shark tourism industry as well. Joined once again by Benjamin Crook… clinical nurse educator in emergency and creator of the ED jam medical podcast, we're going to run through some of the things you need to know… about shark attack first aid… ED jam podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YIYojOqLWI5twHHajZrsU?si=ec6492d85ed9428e Videos Tac MED video on how to apply a tourniquet https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zvx6LGR98dA https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zvx6LGR98dA First aid kits https://tacmedaustralia.com.au/products/operator-ifak-kit?variant=43597288776&country=AU¤cy=AUD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16926729736&gbraid=0AAAAADjEEaayH9SM_nYsensJeih3ScQ6V&gclid=CjwKCAjw24vBBhABEiwANFG7y_dEKWiR_Yd9dsPMYgDe_grPMIax4gXWVtYtkSBoQ57J1-vxHoynlBoCWxQQAvD_BwE Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S3 · E6
    Jun 29, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min

    Endangered Sharks on Etsy

    A groundbreaking study titled Prevalence of Endangered Shark Trophies In Automated Detection of Online Trade sheds light on the alarming online trade of endangered shark species right under our noses. Tune in for an insight into how you may have endangered shark species in your everyday life without even realizing it, and tune in to the end of the episode for a powerful call to action and ways to become involved. Vic Hislop sells a Great White https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3368592/Queensland-shark-hunter-Vic- Hislop-sells-frozen-great-white-shark-30-000.html Prevalence of endangered shark trophies in automated detection of the online wildlife trade https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320725000291 Off the shelf: Shark Cartilage supplements and the truth https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mw3BbWgslY Spencer's social media @Fish_defender Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S3 · E5
    Jun 12, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min

    Return of the MEG

    In the thrilling second instalment of our Megalodon series, PhD palaeontologist Jack Cooper returns to dive deeper into the legend and science of the Megalodon, debunking myths, exploring its extinction, and revealing what this ancient apex predator can teach us about modern shark conservation. Jack’s website: https://www.drjackacooper.com/ Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S3 · E4
    Jun 7, 2025 · 45 min

    THE SHARK FELON (A Presidential Pardon, Corruption & Why Saving Sharks Nearly Landed Me in Jail)

    In today’s very special episode, I sit down with my partner, Tanner, to discuss how his attempt to save sharks and do the right thing nearly landed him in jail. We recorded this episode a week after learning that Tanner had been pardoned by President Donald Trump. In August 2020, Tanner Mansell, a crew member on a shark-diving charter boat off the coast of Jupiter, Florida, came across a longline fishing setup approximately three miles offshore. Believing it to be part of an illegal operation, Tanner and the boat’s captain, John Moore, freed 19 sharks and a giant grouper that had been caught on the line. They reported the incident to state wildlife officials and brought the fishing gear back to shore. Unbeknownst to them, the longline belonged to a licensed fisherman. As a result, federal prosecutors charged Mansell and Moore with theft of property within special maritime jurisdiction—a federal felony. Book a trip with Tanner https://www.tannerunderwater.com And follow his social media, @tannerunderwater Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S3 · E3
    Jun 3, 2025 · 52 min

    Have Shark Populations Boomed?

    In this episode, we dive into the ongoing debate about whether shark populations are truly booming or if this claim is based on misconceptions. With growing concerns from fishermen, particularly in the U.S. and viral discussions on social media, we explore whether sharks are increasing in numbers or simply recovering to historical baseline levels. Joining the conversation is marine ecologist and investigative journalist Spencer Roberts, who provides insights into the factors fuelling the "shark overpopulation" hysteria. Tune in for an evidence-based look at shark conservation, media narratives, and what’s really happening in our oceans. The Great American Shark Slaughter Stop Shark Poaching (video, petition, thread) Pelagic shark declines: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-020-03173-9 Deep-sea shark declines: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ade9121 Coastal shark declines: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1079777Deep-sea Only shark sanctuaries have seen shark mortality decrease: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adf8984 Catch and release laws aren't enough to save sharks: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/faf.12892 Note: Within minute 41:00 of today’s episode, Spencer said NOAA but was talking about FWC. Please don’t panic, we’re aware. Carry on. Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S3 · E2
    May 23, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min

    Confessions of a Shark Tracker- Richard Fitzpatrick

    This episode is ideal for anyone pursuing a career in marine biology as we sit down with Richard Fitzpatrick, an Australian marine biologist, award-winning cinematographer, and shark expert. Based in Queensland, he has spent decades studying marine life, particularly sharks and other large predators, contributing to scientific research and conservation efforts. Fitzpatrick is well known for his work with National Geographic, the BBC, and Discovery Channel, where his stunning underwater cinematography has brought the ocean’s most fascinating creatures to global audiences. As a key researcher at the Australian Institute of Marine Science, he’s also played a crucial role in tagging and tracking sharks to better understand their behaviour and migration patterns. His passion for marine conservation and storytelling has made him a leading voice in ocean preservation. Check out on instagram @biopixeloceans Web is biopixeloceans.org Shark Tracking website: Biotracker.org Read the book: https://www.amazon.com/Shark-Tracker-Confessions-Underwater-Cameraman/dp/1742234933 * Butler, F., Holcomb, J. B., Dorlac, W., Gurney, J., Inaba, K., Jacobs, L., ... & Danyliuk, O. (2024). Who needs a tourniquet? And who does not? Lessons learned from a review of tourniquet use in the Russo-Ukrainian war. Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 97(2S), S45-S54. Link to articleWho needs a tourniquet? And who does not? Lessons learned... : Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery * Dupuy, C., Martinez, T., Duranteau, O., Gauss, T., Kapandji, N., Pasqueron, J., ... & TraumaBase Group®. (2025). Comparison of the lethal triad and the lethal diamond in severe trauma patients: a multicenter cohort. World Journal of Emergency Surgery, 20(1), 2. Link to article https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-5434464/v1 * Goralnick, E., Chaudhary, M. A., McCarty, J. C., Caterson, E. J., Goldberg, S. A., Herrera-Escobar, J. P., ... & Haider, A. H. (2018). Effectiveness of instructional interventions for hemorrhage control readiness for laypersons in the public access and tourniquet training study (PATTS): a randomized clinical trial. JAMA surgery, 153(9), 791-799.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6583882/ * Hicks. C.(2020). Trauma! Extremity Arterial Hemorrhage.Life in the Fast-lane. Retreived on the 20th April 2025 from Trauma! Extremity Arterial Hemorrhage * Holcomb, J. B., Dorlac, W. C., Drew, B. G., Butler, F. K., Gurney, J. M., Montgomery, H. R., ... & Linchevskyy, O. (2023). Rethinking limb tourniquet conversion in the prehospital environment. Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 95(6), e54-e60.Rethinking limb tourniquet conversion in the prehospital environment - PMC * Kragh Jr, J. F., Wallum, T. E., Aden III, J. K., Dubick, M. A., & Baer, D. G. (2015). Which improvised tourniquet windlasses work well and which ones won’t?. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, 26(3), 401-405. Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S3 · E1
    May 14, 2025 · 42 min

    Did Social Media Screw Sharks?

    Welcome back to Shark Stories! After a long break, join us for a good old-fashioned rant as I ask my social media following to tell me… has social media screwed our sharks? In this episode, I read your answers and give you my personal take on the issues. From redirecting shark videos to recreational shark fishing, has social media screwed our sharks? Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S2 · E5
    Jan 13, 2022 · 43 min

    The Meg

    The one shark we all wish was still with us… well, maybe not all of u: The Megalodon. The only thing left of this revered species is its fossilized teeth, which scientists use to measure its total length… It's been the subject of horror films and conspiracy theories but the evidence of its disappearance is perhaps the scariest thing of all. Using advanced scientific methods, we are able to estimate how they hunted, what they hunted, their evolution based on their teeth alone, and even what they looked like. This episode offers an insight into the largest shark to have ever lived, the Megalodon shark. Follow Jack Cooper, PH Student ON Twitter Follow Me On IG Follow Project Hiu www.projecthiu.com Got a sponsorship or collaboration offer? Send it here: sharkstoriespodcast@gmail.com Cover Art by photographer Tanner Mansell Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

  • S2 · E4
    Jan 6, 2022 · 58 min

    Shark First Aid

    Of the 470 shark species, only 30 species of sharks have been found to have attacked humans, and only 4 of the 30 species make up the majority of attacks. Yet with everything we know about sharks, with everything we do in their home, whether it's surfing, diving, or spearfishing as a mere few examples… why do we not talk about first aid for shark attacks as commonly as we do CPR or vinegar for jellyfish stings? Alongside an Australian paramedic who has treated shark attack victims, we outline things that may just help you save a life one day. This podcast is a must for anyone that goes in the ocean around sharks, or in general anyone who wants to know more about why and how they attack. An extension of the surfing guide to sharks, this episode is about safety and responsibility, and just what to do in the unlikely, unfortunate yet possible, event of a shark attack. Terra Australlis first aid for shark attacks video Surfing guide to sharks free download Shark bite first aid kit 🦈🦈🦈 Follow Me On IG Follow Project Hiu www.projecthiu.com Got a sponsorship or collaboration offer? Send it here: sharkstoriespodcast@gmail.com Cover Art by photographer Tanner Mansell Support the show @projecthiu www.projecthiu.com @sharkgirlmadison

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