Welcome back to The Cosmic Shed! In this episode, host Andrew is thrilled to bring you a fascinating interview with Fabrice Schnoller, an engineer, biologist, and filmmaker known for his exploration of ocean life and the study of dolphin and whale communication.

Fabrice joins Andrew after they met at the Wild Screen Festival in Bristol, where Fabrice's film "Valdimir: Conversation with a Spy Whale" captivated audiences with the story of Valdimir, the charismatic beluga whale. Andrew and Fabrice discuss the complexities of animal communication, the philosophical questions it raises, and the potential implications of unlocking these mysteries.

Fabrice Schnoller in the wild.

Fabrice also delves into his unique approach to studying whales, including the innovative use of technology and the challenges of marine research. He shares some fascinating stories of the eperiences he and his fellow researchers have had with whales and dolphines and we discuss the emotional connections between humans and whales, as well as the broader significance of understanding these majestic creatures.

Hvaldimir spyhopping to inspect a boat...or is he looking at the people on it?

Join us for this fascinating conversation that bridges science, storytelling, and the quest for deeper connections with the natural world.

show notes The Cosmic Shed is part of the Stimulus Network You can subscribe to The Cosmic Shed podcast

Planet Earth III is the latest and greatest installment in the BBC's landmark Natural History series and we are joined by three of the people behind this stunning new television event.

Abi Lees is the Director of the Forests episodes

Producer/Director Abigail Lees, Assistant Producer Georgie Ward and Junior Production Manager Georgie Collingwood join Andrew and Steve to talk the making of, and our deep love of, Planet Earth 3.

Georgina Collingwood is a Junior Porduction Manager of Planet Earth III

As the shed is currently a little worse for wear, this podcast was recorded on a 117 year old Dutch Barge in Bristol Harbour.

Georgina Ward is the Assistant Producer of the Coasts and Extremes episodes

Just what does go into making such an amazing series? Download and listen or simply press play on this page to find out now.

show notes Planet Earth III is here We did 2 episodes on Planet Earth II - The Science and The Producers You can find our episode on Blue Planet II here Our episode on Seven Worlds One Planet is here The Cosmic Shed is part of the Stimulus Network You can subscribe to The Cosmic Shed podcast

Screens of Matter is a cinema development project, specialising in screening science fiction films. The long-term aim of the company is to secure permanent premises in Bristol (UK), to build on venue capacity in the city. The project also aims to attract and support neurodiverse audiences by testing ideas to create more inclusive cinema environments.

Founder/Producer | Emmeline Rodman

Emmeline is a Bristol based producer who currently works in the charity and education sectors. She is an experienced events manager and lectures in events management and design. She is proudly neurodiverse, diagnosed with ADHD and Dyslexia. Science fiction films provide her with a place of solace from these conditions.

Programme advisor | Owen Van Spall

Owen is a London based film programmer for a major arts venue. He has worked in a variety of cinemas for nearly a decade, from pop-up events to community projects across the UK. He is a film history postgraduate and has also worked in the comic book publishing industry.

Their launch event is a double bill of Judge Dredd films.

To get your tickets and find our more visit www.screensofmatter.com

show notes

The Cosmic Shed is part of the Stimulus Network You can subscribe to The Cosmic Shed podcast