From the Amazon to Antarctica: A Brave Woman’s Call to Protect the Wild
Bia Figueiredo
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What does it take to answer the call—even when it scares you?
In this moving and powerful conversation, Chrystal Dawn speaks with marine scientist, nature guide, and ocean activist Bia Figueiredo, whose journey has taken her from the beaches of Brazil to the icy waters of Antarctica.
Bia opens up about her early love for the ocean, the moment fear kept her out of the water, and how a spark of curiosity—and a longing to serve something greater—led her to join Sea Shepherd, working directly under the leadership of Captain Paul Watson.
She shares what it was really like to be on the front lines of marine activism: pulling up 72 kilometers of illegal fishing gear, facing extreme weather conditions, and navigating the masculine world of maritime leadership as a woman committed to collaboration, softness, and purpose.
We also hear about the moment that changed everything—when someone believed in her before she fully believed in herself. And how that simple yes led her to years of bold, brave action for the planet.
Then, in a beautiful twist of synchronicity, Bia tells the story of how she became a contributing author to Dear World, a book published by the Jane Goodall Institute Australia, and how she came face-to-face with one of her lifelong sheroes—Dr. Jane Goodall herself.
This episode is a celebration of feminine leadership, intuition, and what happens when you say yes to the call—before you feel ready.
In This Episode:
Following the whispers of intuition
Women rising in male-dominated fields
The inner transformation that happens in nature
The reality of activism with Sea Shepherd and Captain Paul Watson
Contributing to Dear World with Dr. Jane Goodall
Why courage, collaboration, and kindness matter more than ever
From Captain Paul Watson to Dr. Jane Goodall | Ocean Activism, Feminine Power & Saying Yes Before You're Ready
Marine scientist and speaker Bia Figueiredo joins Chrystal Dawn to share her incredible journey—from growing up in Brazil with a dream of seeing whales, to serving on the front lines with Sea Shepherd, and eventually co-authoring Dear World with the Jane Goodall Institute Australia.
Brazilian by birth, Bia has always been drawn to the coast, where the ocean became her sanctuary and endless source of inspiration. With degrees in Biological and Marine Sciences, her journey has been defined by a profound passion for conservation and the wonders of the natural world.
Bia has worked alongside Sea Shepherd both onshore and offshore for many years, contributing to anti-whaling campaigns, illegal fishing initiatives, and various other conservation efforts. Currently, she is affiliated with the Captain Paul Watson Foundation, continuing her commitment to marine life protection through direct action. Her belief is clear: education is the key to individual and collective change, and she works tirelessly to spread this message.
Her career has taken her from the lush forests of the Amazon to the icy waters of Antarctica, collaborating with governmental and non-governmental organizations on projects that protect aquatic ecosystems and wildlife. Along the way, she has embraced roles as an expedition guide, skipper, lecturer, and photographer, sharing her knowledge and love for the planet in some of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring locations—including the Kimberleys, the Pacific, and the Amazon.
Now based in Australia, Bia dedicates her life to reconnecting people with the natural world, whether by leading adventures to uncover the secrets of tropical reef fish, the artistry of coral reef ecosystems, or the ancient navigation techniques of Micronesia. She brings to life not only the intricate beauty of marine biodiversity but also the rich cultural heritage tied to the ocean.
In her downtime, she continues to explore coastlines, freedive, and hike, all while volunteering with marine conservation groups. Her unwavering commitment to biodiversity and sustainability shapes everything she does, from guiding trips to giving lectures about coral reef ecology and whale sharks, to connecting with communities passionate about preserving our shared heritage.
A true "water child" and nature enthusiast, Bia lives to share the hidden treasures of our planet, inspiring others to help keep these wild places wild. For her, storytelling and exploration are the ultimate ways to nurture a deeper connection to the Earth and all its wonders.
Websites:
Instagram: @beyondthebigblue
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