Author: Ariel Landrum
As a passionate advocate for mental health and conservation, I was excited to sit down with Tom “The Blowfish” Hird, the world’s only Heavy Metal Marine Biologist and a key figure in this year’s Shark Week special, 6000lb. Shark. Our conversation delved into his unique journey, his love for marine life, and his experiences filming his latest Shark Week episode. Tom’s energy and enthusiasm were infectious, making this interview an unforgettable experience.
From the moment we began speaking, Tom’s larger-than-life personality shone through. Known affectionately as “Fish,” Tom has carved out a niche by combining his love for heavy metal music with marine biology. He shared how he ignored naysayers and followed his passion: “I didn’t listen to anyone who told me I couldn’t. It’s about giving yourself permission.” This philosophy has guided him through a career that defies conventions, proving that passion and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Tom’s Shark Week episode, 6000lb. Shark, airing on Tuesday, July 9, at 9 PM ET/PT, takes viewers on a thrilling expedition to find and study the largest great white sharks off the coast of New Zealand. When asked about surprises during the expedition, Tom revealed, “We started with a simple question and came back with even more questions. One fascinating aspect was observing the unexpected social behavior among the sharks.” Instead of the typical dominance hierarchy, they discovered sharks of various sizes and statuses coexisting peacefully, raising intriguing questions about their social structures and interactions.
Curiosity and dedication to understanding these magnificent creatures underscore his commitment to marine conservation. Tom emphasized that the essence of scientific discovery lies in the ability to ask questions, remain curious, and be open to the unexpected. His findings not only add to our knowledge of shark behavior but also highlight the importance of continuous inquiry and exploration in uncovering the mysteries of the natural world.
Throughout our conversation, Tom emphasized the importance of authenticity and embracing one’s unique identity. He advised, “To hell with the rest of them. Don’t compare your chapter three with someone else’s chapter fifteen. It’s your book, and you’re writing it.” This message of self-acceptance and confidence resonates deeply with me. As a therapist, I agree that encouraging others to pursue their passions regardless of societal expectations is tenant to experiencing a fully joyful life and securing an authentic sense of self.
A particularly memorable moment during our discussion was Tom’s candid take on dolphins, humorously reflecting on the rivalry between shark and dolphin enthusiasts. Despite his jesting, Tom deeply respected all marine life, advocating for their freedom and natural existence. “Dolphins are incredible animals and deserve all the respect and attention they get. But they can be massive a*******,” he quipped.
Tom’s enthusiasm for sharks is palpable, and his adventures have brought him face-to-face with some of the ocean’s most formidable predators. His approach to wildlife presenting is refreshingly humble: “I don’t want to be the center of attention. The sharks should be the center of attention. I’ll tell you about them so you love them as much as I do.”
With Shark Week kicking off on Sunday, July 7, hosted by John Cena, viewers are in for a week of thrilling encounters with apex predators and deep-sea adventures. Tom’s episode, 6000lb. Shark, promises to be a highlight, showcasing his dedication to marine biology and entertainment.
Can’t wait for July 7th for Shark Week? Check out Shark Week: The Podcast with host Kasha Patel for thrilling tales from the ocean’s depths. Dive into the sea’s mysteries with your favorite apex predators and explore topics like shark telepathy and mating rituals. Listen to your podcasts on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get them.
Here’s a brief rundown of the Shark Week schedule:
SUNDAY, JULY 7
- “Belly of the Beast: Bigger and Bloodier” premieres at 8PM ET/PT
- “Jaws vs Leviathan” premieres at 9PM ET/PT
- “Makozilla” premieres at 10PM ET/PT
- “Sydney Harbor Shark Invasion” premieres at 11PM ET/PT
MONDAY, JULY 8
- “Big Shark Energy” premieres at 8PM ET/PT
- “Shark Frenzy: Mating Games” premieres at 9PM ET/PT
- “Great White Serial Killer: Sea of Blood” premieres at 10PM ET/PT
TUESDAY, JULY 9
- “Deadliest Bite” premieres at 8PM ET/PT
- “6000lb. Shark” premieres at 9PM ET/PT
- “Monster Hammerheads: Species X” premieres at 10PM ET/PT
WEDNESDAY, JULY 10
- “Great White North” premieres at 8PM ET/PT
- “Expedition Unknown: Sharks vs. Nazis in Paradise” premieres at 9PM ET/PT
- “Alien Sharks: Ghosts of Japan” premieres at 10PM ET/PT
THURSDAY, JULY 11
- “Monster of Oz” premieres at 8PM ET/PT
- “Caught! When Sharks Attack” premieres at 9PM ET/PT
- “Great White Danger Zone” premieres at 10PM ET/PT
FRIDAY, JULY 12
- “The Real Sharkano” premieres at 8PM ET/PT
- “Sharks of the Dead Zone” premieres at 9PM ET/PT
- “Shark Attack Island” premieres at 10PM ET/PT
SATURDAY, JULY 13
- “Sharktopia” premieres at 8PM ET/PT
- “Mothersharker: Hammer Time” premieres at 9PM ET/PT
Discovery Channel, renowned for its high-quality non-fiction content, brings Shark Week to life with captivating production values and stunning cinematography, showcasing the awe and diversity of the natural world.
As a narrative therapist, I believe in the transformative power of stories to heal and inspire. Tom “The Blowfish” Hird’s journey exemplifies the fusion of passion and perseverance in pursuing knowledge and conservation. By sharing his experiences, we gain a better understanding and deeper appreciation for the intricate beauty of our oceans and the creatures that inhabit them. Tune in to Shark Week and let Tom’s unique adventures motivate you to embrace your passions and contribute to preserving our planet’s precious ecosystems.
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