Reframing the narrative of sharks
Show Notes
Grab your gear and get ready for an adventure, because this week I am joined by extreme explorer, naturalist and presenter Steve Backshall MBE! Throughout his career, Steve has endeavoured to change public perception of species perceived as 'deadly' or 'dangerous' - changing the narrative from fear to respect, joy and awe. He's spent a lot of time in the water among sharks, most recently for his latest Sky series 'Shark with Steve Backshall' which aims to promote wonder and dispel popular myths about these animals. In this episode, we discuss some of the most common misconceptions of sharks, the role of the media in perpetuating fear and spreading misinformation, and how we can begin to flip that narrative to build support for shark conservation. And, of course, we hear some of Steve's fascinating stories from the field and introduce the next generation to the adventure and wonder of the natural world. We begin by hearing of some of these incredible experiences (04.40). Steve recalls his most memorable experience, an encounter that has surprised him (07.05) and the first time he ever saw a shark in the wild (09.53). This sets the scene for the rest of our conversation, as we talk about Steve’s surprise and joy at finding sharks to be sometimes curious, but overall placid animals with little interest in humans. We also find out what it’s like to do ballet with one of the largest mammals on earth!
Although this episode is about changing negative perceptions of sharks, we discuss that fear is natural and, in some parts of the world, it comes from a very real place (12.07). Adverse interactions between sharks and humans are rare but do happen – many species of shark are predators that need to be treated with respect. The conversation around sharks needs to be nuanced, and Steve explains that although we will be talking about how sharks are portrayed unfairly by the media, we need to be thoughtful and careful in how we discuss this subject.
With this in mind, Steve tell us all about his new series for Sky ‘Shark’ (13.50). He explains that the drive behind this series was to promote awe and wonder about sharks. The goal was to never mention the conflict between sharks and humans and simply showcase the beauty and fascinating world of these animals. We talk about how unusual this still is, even in 2022. Steve then recalls some of his favourite moments of the series (16.06), which include finding enormous flapper skate eggs at the bottom of a Scottish sea loch and observing mating in several other species (which, as we’ve already talked about on this podcast, is pretty brutal!). However, he also mentions that one of the most shocking aspects of filming was observing just how many were carrying evidence of human activity, including hooks and lines (17.32). This is something Steve has noticed more and more during filming, especially in the last five years. We then dive into some listener questions! Steve answers a question from Charlotte on Instagram, who asks “am I at risk of being attacked by a shark when surfing?” (23.15). We talk about how this depends on where you are in the world, and also that there are certain steps you can take in places with higher risk, to minimise the chances of a potentially negative encounter.
This also brings us on to a conversation about just how few shark-related incidents there are worldwide (25.00). Steve tells us that this is often exaggerated by the media, something which hasn’t changed since his first production on sharks in the early 2000s (29.14). He recalls meeting the legendary Dr Sam Gruber during a National Geographic filming expedition and seeing for the first time the international shark attack file, and being “gobsmacked” at how small the number of incidents was. You have more chance of being killed by a coconut falling on your head, than a shark! However, Steve emphasises that 22 years after that film, he is still repeating those same facts to the public (30.00).
We talk about how many of us ‘shark advocates’ live in a bubble (31.00). The wider perception of sharks is still pretty negative, built on fear and misinformation. We discuss sensationalist media coverage (32.44) as one of the primary reasons why these perceptions are still so widespread. Steve states the need to call these media outlets out (33.00), highlight any incorrect or ‘fearmongering’ articles and outweigh them with positive news stories. When it comes to promoting public support for shark conservation, Steve feels strongly that this is an area where the media can help. He talks of his work with Bite Back Shark Conservation and his mission to continue to flip the popular narrative of sharks through inspiring and educational films. We round off our interview by asking some more listener questions (35.33), including one from Emma, a marine biology undergraduate, who wants to know how we as individuals can influence the government to put better protections in place for sharks. And, of course, we find out which species of shark or ray Steve would be if he had the chance!
About our guest
Steve Backshall
Steve is one of the most beloved adventurers and naturalists on the planet. Steve captivates millions with his TV shows and expeditions ranging from the BAFTA-winning Deadly 60, to the critically acclaimed Shark with Steve Backshall, Big Blue Live, Alaska Live, Lost Land of the Volcano, Lost Land of the Jaguar, Extreme Mountain Challenge, Down the mighty River with Steve Backshall and Expedition with Steve Backshall.
Steve’s Great passion is discovery - investigating new places and new species. He is prepared to go to the ends of the Earth to satisfy this passion.
Steve’s international acclaim extends off-screen too. Steve is an accomplished author penning both fiction and non-fiction books for adults and children. Steve is also a patron for numerous charities and an ambassador for Sky Zero and the Scout Association.
