
Science and entertainment come together in this unique presentation created by shark diver and ecologist, Skyler Thomas, to provide an insightful look into marine biology presentations. With over 20 years of his own footage and experience, this interactive experience not only highlights shark conservation but also helps audiences grasp the ecological purpose by posing a simple yet profound question: 'How am I still alive?'






Sharks capture the attention of most of us, regardless of age. It is the ability to use heart-stopping footage while connecting that emotion to both common sense and ecological scientific observations that make this presentation a winner for grade-school students and adults, especially in the context of marine biology presentations focused on shark conservation and their ecological purpose.
An award-winning filmmaker, the presenter is also an accomplished public speaker, credentialed educator, and active ecologist with a strong commitment to ecological purposes. Additionally, they frequently deliver marine biology presentations focused on shark conservation.
Once the shock and awe of fear is removed, we can begin to appreciate the intentional design of animals, particularly in marine biology presentations, and how those designs reflect their ecological purpose. Once we understand their purposes, we can then start to question our own roles in shark conservation.
Skyler Thomas’s White Shark Video school presentation on sharks and ocean ecology is terrific. From the dramatic opening video sequence of sharks in their natural habitat to the easy-to-grasp explanation of the ecological purpose of the food web, the presentation flowed nicely in an accessible combination of science and storytelling. The talk was well organized and well-structured, and Skyler’s engaging speaking style and humor worked seamlessly with his incredible slides, video, and first-person stories. Overall, this presentation would be a worthwhile supplement to any marine biology presentations or shark conservation curriculum.
We would like to express our gratitude and delight at having Skyler Thomas on stage at our Education Program. Over the past several years, we have screened three of his films, which focus on shark conservation and the ecological purpose of these magnificent creatures. Skyler has kept our young audience spellbound, answering their questions about shark ecosystems and sharing insights from his marine biology presentations on what it’s like to film sharks in their underwater habitat. We highly recommend him and look forward to having him inspire thousands more middle and high school students at our program in the years to come! - Diane and Bob Brockob, Education Outreach Volunteers, San Francisco International Ocean Film Festival
Skyler Thomas has presented to youth groups, including at-risk youth, on several occasions for the Farallones Marine Sanctuary Association. His dedication to shark conservation and marine biology presentations reflects his ecological purpose, while his enthusiasm and personal style with students make him an excellent choice for any event focused on shark conservation. I would highly recommend him for his engaging approach to educating others.
Gabrielle Sturm, One Planet Living

Please specify your desired date or date range, along with the location and age range of your audience. Additionally, let us know the type of organization you represent.
We encourage you to include some information about yourself and your organization, as well as the necessary contact information requested on the left. If you have any special requests or concerns regarding the content of the marine biology presentations, particularly if they relate to ecological purpose or shark conservation, we can discuss these further. Several past presentations have been tailored to meet the specific needs of clients, such as incorporating more ecological information relevant to the local area.
These marine biology presentations are part of the educational outreach programs offered by Skyler's nonprofit organization, 'The Coexistence Initiative' (formerly White Shark Video). As such, your organization can book these presentations as donations and receive a tax-deductible benefit. Donations are processed via Mazlo.
With an ecological purpose at its core, the documentary work of Skyler Thomas has evolved from a focus solely on sharks to encompass the understanding that the health of our seas is interconnected with our actions on land.

Understanding the ecological purpose of our planet involves recognizing that everything is interconnected. Skyler's marine biology presentations extend beyond just sharks and the ocean; they also illuminate controversial conservation issues occurring closer to home. The staff at One Planet Living have invited Skyler to explore both terrestrial and marine life.

From great white sharks to seven gill sharks, Skyler has shared open water with over 20 species without incident. Is this due to elite survival skills, or does it relate more to the ecological purpose of the sharks? Additionally, what insights can we derive from the physical design of each shark in the context of marine biology presentations and shark conservation?

From small classrooms to auditoriums, various organizations have different means available to them. That is why this organization allows the purchaser to set their donation amount based on what they are able to give, supporting initiatives like marine biology presentations and shark conservation, all while serving an ecological purpose.
Understanding the ecological purpose of our planet involves recognizing that everything is interconnected. Skyler's marine biology presentations extend beyond just sharks and the ocean; they also illuminate controversial conservation issues occurring closer to home. The staff at One Planet Living have invited Skyler to explore both terrestrial and marine life.
Skyler came to Credo High for our One Planet Living sustainability week to discuss animal agriculture and his films about Point Reyes National Seashore. The group of 11th grade students had watched the film the day before and were thoroughly engaged and excited for the filmmaker to come in the next day. Some staff members who happened to view the film were intrigued and ended up attending his presentation out of sheer curiosity as well.
Skyler immediately captured the attention of the students by sharing his own footage of activism related to shark conservation and the local tule elk populations. His marine biology presentations were exceptionally well prepared, and many teachers commented on his natural ability to connect with the students, keeping them engaged in such an extensive topic that carries significant ecological purpose.
In the brief time we allocated for his presentation, he covered many facets of this incredibly complex issue in an interesting manner. He presented various perspectives and encouraged the students to think critically and arrive at their own conclusions. By allowing them to form their own opinions, he prompted many important and thoughtful questions.
The general feedback we received from the students after the film and presentation revealed that they were previously unaware of this issue, but they were glad to learn about it now. They expressed feeling more compelled to engage in activism work within their own community, and they found that Skyler made a difficult topic both interesting and even humorous!
This presentation was one of the students' favorites of the week, and we hope to have Skyler return to share more about his other work! A huge thank you from Credo!
- Gabrielle Sturm, One Planet Living Fellow, Climate Corps AmeriCorps

Filmmaker, ecologist, activist, and educator focused on ecological purpose. With over 25 awards for his independently produced films, including 'Great White Lies', 'Monsters', 'Balance', and 'The Shame of Point Reyes', he also delivers marine biology presentations that emphasize shark conservation. He holds an MFA in Digital Media, a BA in Liberal Arts, a California Teaching Credential, an AS in Natural Science, and is currently pursuing an MS in Ecology and Evolution.
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