Dear Past, Present and Future Patrons,

It’s truly been a challenging year and a deeply devastating month. Your commitment to my work couldn’t be more appreciated. I hope my efforts will continue to ripple outward and help those most in need.

Many people from around the world have kindly reached out with support and well-wishes for our family and have asked "how can I best help you rebuild?"

My simple single answer is "please become a patron, invest $1/month (or whatever is comfortable) and invite others to back my continuing work."

All I really want to do is what I am good at — work that's useful, non-redundant and efficient.

Then they ask “why Patreon?”

So, I thought I’d simply put the question to you: why are you a patron of my work?

Could you take one minute and write a couple of personal sentences that I can share with those who want to understand? Send along an image that says "blue mind", if you'd like.

I’ll compile your testimonials and photos and add them to this post, below.

Then when people ask that question I’ll let all of you answer for me.

With appreciation,

J

"J has given so much for so long to help so many people, organizations and businesses to be smarter, stronger and better. The least I can do is become a patron of his work so he can keep doing what he's so good at. I can't afford to contribute much right now but I can help by inviting others to join me. I also love getting the thoughtful updates and my sticker : )"

— Anonymous patron

"J has the gift to make a person listen and pause for thoughtful contemplation, and realize the importance of the preservation of our natural environment. Our lives can move so quickly that we lose track of the movement of the world we live in.

J brings us back to Earth with compassion and insight.  Giving us the chance to realize the opportunities at our doorsteps to reconnect with, and sustain our ecosystems and the species within them.  He is a rare and brilliant visionary for the protection of our natural world."

— Barbara D. Andrews, California Academy of Sciences

"We were thrilled to have J. speak on the Google Campus for Earth Day. His work is bridging a critical gap in our understanding of how the human mind makes decisions in terms of ocean conservation. For cognitive scientists that seek to discover the science that underlies what we all know to be an incredibly powerful connection between humankind and our blue planet, I believe J.'s message is a critical and compelling one. I'm encouraged by the radical shift in marine conservation efforts that can result from the research that J. advocates for, to better understand the neurological processes that occur when we are in the presence of water."

— David Bennett, Green Team Operations & Innovations Lead, Google

"Warm and engaging, Dr. Nichols' anecdotal speaking style captures his audience, inviting them to share his passion for the ocean and drawing their attention to the plight of this critical cause."

— Elizabeth Borelli, co-Director Race Against Global Warming

I support the Blue Mind project because it brings a new science to the forefront and gives me ideas and support for helping my patients explore holistic healing. Water is the best psychotropic drug."

— Wendy Boren

"Honestly, I have never witnessed the level of awe and inspiration that J's talk appeared to have imparted to the student interns, and I have been to dozens of trainings and lectures given by internal and external speakers. His talk provided them with something much more than information, it gave them pause to think about the world and their connection to it in a different way than they had before. J. made it so genuinely relevant.

Alumni of this program have told us that interactions with engaging scientists like J. can be the pivotal moment when they decide what they want to do, and I think he may have positively changed the course of some lives when he spoke to them."

— Roberta Brett, Senior Science Specialist, California Academy of Sciences

“J participated  as our special guest at the First Youth Conference for the Conservation of the Gulf of California at the Mazatlan Aquarium.  His visit awoke a feeling of great pride, sense of identity and place in the 100 kids from more than 30 coastal communities who attended from the region (Sonora, Sinaloa, Nayarit and Baja California Peninsula, Mexico).  

All were touched in their hearts and minds in an irreversible way by the knowledge and love that J feels for this unique part of our planet.  J's commitment and dedication for conservation moves the consciousness of adults and children in favor of the necessary fight for our future, so that the magical mystery called LIFE continues to be the primary food of our body, soul and spirit of ours and future generations.”

— Raquel Briseno, Advisor, Children’s Conservation Education Program, Mazatlan Aquarium

"I am a patron of J's work because I believe he's doing something extraordinary and I want to support him. I support his desire to be unconventional and shake things up in the way that is most effective to him and the world. I value being part of the community and receiving updates about work and ideas that I might not have the opportunity to see otherwise."

— Louise Brooks Nelson

"When planning Ecomentum's launch party, we wanted to create a special and memorable evening for Monterey Bay's sustainability community.  Wallace 'J' Nichols was the first person who came to mind, and he did not disappoint.

J connected with the audience, inspiring a group of overachievers to do even more to save our planet.  I look forward to working with him again in the future, and highly recommend him if you're looking for an engaging and motivating keynote speaker."

— Peter Brumis, MBA; CEO, Ecomentum Consulting

"Wallace "J" Nichols' Blue Mind work bridges the scientific/physical reasons why every human needs water, with the spiritual quest innate in all of us. In a world that is dualistic in nature, we/humans are challenged to find balance in the midst of bliss and chaos. Water, the element most needed by us to survive physically, is sought after in many ways to lift our spirit and connect to all that is.

J. conveys this message as fluid as water itself, to anyone on any level. When these concepts are shared and understood, we have an opportunity to live better in every way, and in harmony on this big beautiful planet that is our home. This is the way, Blue Mind."

— Laura Castanza

"Growing up in Hawaii, I spent most of my life in or around the water. I always knew I was lucky, but living in on the mainland now and in cities like London in the past, showed me how much a truly depended upon water for balance in every area of my life — especially creatively. Needless to say, I am a big believer in the power of water and our oceans and am so excited for what you are cultivating on Patreon.”

— Cassidy Cavanah  |  Lead, Creator Success at Patreon

"I had the honor of inviting Dr. Wallace J. Nichols as the Earth Day keynote speaker at Duke University. Dr. Nichols, a former graduate of our Nicholas School of the Environment program, is an inspiring example of how one can use his or her formal education to spearhead movements and affect change in environmental science and conservation.

His humble yet powerful presentation - a presentation that combined a wealth of knowledge with a sense of commitment and passion for his work – provided a wonderful example for the Duke community and a most appropriate message for Earth Day. We all left with a renewed desire to participate in creating a more sustainable future. I would not hesitate to invite Dr. Nichols to give a lecture at Duke University again in the future."

— Dr. Bill Chameides, Dean, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University

“J. provided a clarity of vision and clear communication about the state of the world’s oceans for our film, The 11th Hour. He speaks from the heart and is a new leader and peaceful warrior for the planet.

When listening to J. one falls in love with the ocean and with the wildlife that lives there; and he makes you feel like you can made a difference. J. needs to be in front of as many people as possible, it would be best for all of us and especially for the oceans.”

— Leila Conners, Director, The 11th Hour, President, Tree Media Group

"J always provides an inspiring, well-focused, dynamic presentation.  Students fully engage in what he has to say — leaving the classroom eager to get involved and make things happen. Many of these students seek J out with the goal of working with him on his projects. He has served as an important role model and motivator for young eager minds. And this is why I cajole J into talking to my class every year since I first started teaching it. I can think of few individuals with this gift."

— Dr. Don Croll, Univ. of California, Santa Cruz

“I’ve known Wallace “J” Nichols for 10 years. I had heard of him from others, but it wasn’t until we met that I fully understood why others find him so engaging.

Our bond took only minutes, but has lasted for years.

J is a passionate advocate for the environment who lives his creed.  J is as authentic as anyone in the field—creative, entrepreneurial, bold, and innovative. He is an inspiration to everyone he meets—he is constantly inventing new environmental initiatives and enlisting others in his causes.

But he is most influential and inspirational when he speaks.  I have heard him speak in front of high school and college students, scientists, and the general public. He holds audiences spellbound with his stories; he is a master of the metaphor.  People are engaged by his sense of adventure and by his love of nature and people who interact with nature.  Students often leave this experience saying, “I wanna be like J!”

So do I!”

— Dr. Larry Crowder, Hopkins Marine Station, Stanford University

"J. Nichols is a crucial thought-leader of our time. He's one of the most important voices to demonstrate how vastly important water is as a source of spiritual and physical well-being. His tireless work shows us how in so many diverse circumstances water is both life source and healer. He has created great community around these ideas, bringing people from a wide range of fields together to explore how water is key to how people—and all living creatures—thrive.

He’s a trailblazer and a community-builder with great tenacity and compassion for the people around him."

— Liz Cunningham

"I am a patron because I believed in J's mission the moment I heard his voice in a video in 2010."

— Holly Danyliw

"I am happily a patron of J's work because not only did his book, Blue Mind, inspire me and let me know that others had the same experiences that I had from being in and on the ocean, it supported the multidisciplinary science that further reinforced my desire to incorporate bringing people to the ocean on my work as a psychologist in coastal California. His ongoing work,  and the foundations that support programs similar to those I envision is beyond inspiring.

I'm a happier person knowing there is someone like J in the world.  Thank you!"

— Tania Davidson

"As a young environmentalist, I asked "why should everyone care about the ocean?"

No one could provide a hopeful answer, until I met Dr. Nichols. Blue Mind connects the dots: healthy water = more happy + less stress.

That's something we all need, especially now."

— Taylor Dillon

“Eight Adventure Travel World Summits later, only two of our featured speakers out of more than 60 have received overwhelming call-backs by the incredibly demanding and progressive audience that is the adventure tourism sector - and J's one of 'em. So, what did we do? We called him back to pick up where he left off in 2009, and he'll keynote the 2010 Adventure Travel World Summit.

His talent's simply too hard to find these days — sure, he speaks year-round at conferences worldwide, but his tone, style and meaningful messages resonate in visceral ways, his talks are always fresh with every word uttered, and his accessible storytelling is packed with science...and heart and soul above all else.”

— Chris Doyle, Vice President, Adventure Travel Trade Association, Director of ATTA's Annual Adventure Travel World Summit events

"It’s rare to meet someone in your life that helps your brain work better, makes your courage grow, and makes your struggles and sacrifices seem small. We’ve had plenty of brilliant thinkers in the world of environmental conservation. There have been lots of excellent organizers.

But, only a few times in our lives do we hear someone speak from the heart, with facts, wisdom, and humor on how to make decisions that define and drive the vision of the world we want to live in."

— Tim Dykman, co-Director, Ocean Revolution

"I support J because his work has inspired me for 10 years, both personally and professionally. I work for a big global environmental organization, where the norm has become connecting with people over clicks and negative messages about urgent crises. It can be stressful and exhausting. But J offers some respite from all that, he pushes us and many others to connect over awe, wonder, and the desire to protect what you love. That’s what the world needs, now more than ever.

I see him give his time and his ideas so freely, it’s only right to try to give something back. He’s one of the most sincere, thoughtful, inspiring people I know. J is authentic in a way that’s hard to find. You’ll get much more out of being a patron than you give."

— Jen Fela

"Wallace “J” Nichols is an amazing person with an incredible mission whose engaging and eloquent style captures an audience’s interest and attention.  As travel radio broadcasters we know that it requires a special communication skill to paint a picture that would allow a listener to visualize a scene.  This task is easier to accomplish when the speaker has a passion about his/her subject matter.  Indeed, J clearly has a passion for his work and experiences and he shares this with a sense of compassion and urgency which encourages action and involvement from his audience.  

The mission of the Travel’n On Radio Show is three-fold:  to encourage cross-cultural understanding, global citizenship and sustainable tourism and “J” embodies all three elements of our mission.  What turned out to be a wonderful interview with a “guest” and fellow traveler has turned into a life-long friendship with a beautiful humanitarian and we are pleased that he is now a part of our Travel’n On family."

— Ian and Tonya Fitzpatrick, Esqs., Hosts + Producers, Travel’n On Radio Show

“I’d describe J as a “surround sound system”… once you get inside the room where he is speaking, there is no way you won’t hear what he’s saying. From the first time I heard J giving a public speech in Mexico, I knew he was a man that could speak to all kinds of people, no matter the diversity of backgrounds, countries or realities they had.

At first I thought of this as a great ability, and I figured out J was the person we needed at the Universidad de las Américas to convince students to stand up and act for the Ocean. This was, at first, the reason why I invited him to give at talk at our International Congress: GAIA.

After being around J a little bit more, and watching him interact with people, I realized it was not necessary to have him standing on a scene giving a speech to convince people; you just need to have him in a boat, at a party, at dinner… you just need to have him around, no matter where, since J actually speaks from his heart, about things that represent his passion for life all the time. That’s the key!

Having J at GAIA was a great experience, he connected with students and passed along his message.  As an organizer of this conference I’ll say without hesitating that J’s talk was the most outstanding at our event!  It’s always pleasant to have him around, since no matter how, his “”surround sound system” always gets you!”

— Egle Flores, Universidad de las Américas, Puebla, Mexico

“J is truly a kind soul and his pioneering work has changed and continues to change the lives of many for the good.  His identification of water being a source for social good needs to be fully substantiated and his work is focused on this.

I for one believe J’s work to be game changing in moving from pharmaceuticals to water therapy.  This is but one of many benefits of this work.

I do wish you do decide to support him in his endeavours!”

— Chris Gunn

"I support J because I believe fervently in the good he's doing for both our environmental and mental health. Supporting J through Patreon allows him to pursue his passions objectively, without the undue political or financial pressure of an employer."

— Paul Hilbink, Digital Latitudes, Inc.

"It is hard for me to say just how much J's work means to me in just a sentence or two, but I will try to keep this brief. I lived most of my life in southern California where the ocean and the beach were a huge part of my world. I was also fortunate to spend quite a bit of time in Big Sur and Monterey County. Then I was blessed to live in Maui for 17 years where the ocean was a 10 minute walk from my front door. A year ago I made the difficult decision to move back to the mainland to be closer to family and currently live in the landlocked city of Fort Worth, TX . I sorely underestimated how hard it would be being so far from my mother ocean.

A couple months ago I found Blue Mind and it has been a lifesaver. I've always known the benefits of water and the sea but your book has shown me how through art and music and poetry and literature and scents and even baths I can still experience some of the joy that water and the ocean have always given me.

Thank you for your work and book and for loving the ocean the same way I do. I am proud to be a patron and happy to give each month to help it continue. To all the other ocean lovers and swimmers like myself out there who are reading this, your support is truly worth the investment."

— Megan Jones

"I am a patron of Dr. Wallace J. Nichols because he continues to cause real change in our perception of water and our oceans. He also helps people without expectation of something in return. On a personal level, several years ago, he allowed my high-school-age daughter to interview him for a school paper. She then went on to study environmental studies and now writes about the environment. I know his work will continue to have a positive impact on the planet and its inhabitants."

— Avis Kalfsbeek [author of the Pedro the Water Dog Saves the Planet book series]

"J has an amazing way of engaging with people that seems like you’ve known him before. I’ve observed in his interviews, talks and conversations a unique way of communicating his keen intelligence that beckons one to want to learn more and help in sharing this fascinating—and what I think is vital—information."

— Mira Kanter

"As the Director at Save Our Shores for the past few years, I have had the pleasure of working with J Nichols several times as we share similar passions in our work and personal life for ocean protection.  J was kind enough to speak at one of the first fundraising events I put on. He engaged a very diverse crowd of several hundred people who might have been more interested in all the activities going on at the festival, but stopped to listen to his message about the importance of ocean health.

We then were fortunate to have him present to our group of dedicated volunteers for a 2 hour session through use of a very effective powerpoint presentation that impacted all the audience members with his simple to remember, but powerful message of, "Our ocean, we're putting too much in, taking too much out, and destroying the edges".  Folks still recite that to me even though the presentation took place almost a year ago.  J gave the most inspiring presentation I have seen at our recent training of volunteers.  He demonstrated with great photos, which really kept the crowd entertained, but most importantly his passion came across throughout the entire presentation He is very skilled at leaving the crowd feeling inspired, as he gives them easy suggestions for how they can make changes to help improve the health of the ocean.

Finally, I saw J speak at an event to raise awareness about climate change.  Many of the other presenters were very informative but not very charismatic.  When J got up to speak, he put a very humorous spin on the topic.  He asked people, "To do nothing".  Don't drive your cars, don't pollute, don't consume resources.  It was quite a different approach that certainly got people's attention.  Out of all of the presenters we have had for SOS, I must say that J was the most dynamic and interesting speaker - a very tough act to follow - which is why, as happened in this event, he's most often asked to speak last."

— Laura Kasa, Executive Director, Save Our Shores

"Wallace J. Nichols is my eco hero.  At Environmental Charter High School, Nichols gave one of the most inspiring speeches to have occurred on our campus.  He spoke to raise funds  at our "Green Gala" Event.  J also appeared with us on a national public radio station as a featured guest.  Because Nichols' gregarious influence he attracted lots of guests to our campus.  During his presentation the entire audience was silently engaged and besides the organic, local food Nichols was the hit of party.  Numerous guests were inspired by Nichols way of presenting and he was asked to present at other events in Los Angeles.  Nichols not only raised funds for us, he raised awareness of our organization, and he left our audience inspired to be eco-daredevils."

— Sara Laimon, Green Ambassadors Founder

"I am a patron of J's work because at the very core of our shared intentions lies a deep compassion for our beautiful ecosphere. I value his ability to not only convey ideas in a creative and compelling way, but also the way he expands and connects insights.  He is truly warm and encouraging, and fearlessly generous in the way he shares his thoughts and feelings - a tenacious spokesperson who finds ways to bring healthy water to the agenda in a wide range of contexts, without which the water equation would be at worst unrecognised and at best undervalued.  J's work is needed now more than ever and whilst much of it might be not immediately tangible the groundswell J and our wider team are creating will have far reaching significance."

— Lizzi Larbalestier

"Gracias a Dr. Wallace por su aporte en abrir una nueva mirada del agua en el bienestar y salud. Cuenta con nosotros. Su amiga CetHums Escuela Oceanica siempre presente con Blue Mind. Estamos organizando un curso para docentes donde hablaremos de su investigación. Sabemos que el 2021 será de grandes logros. Lo queremos mucho. Un abrazo cálido a ud. a su familia incluyendo a George."

— Dinorah Lares Bigott

"I have had the pleasure to work with Wallace J. Nichols on several occasions, and he has proven himself to be an exceptionally strong and influential speaker.  J has been a guest on my radio program, Tomorrow Matters,  I have heard him at lectures and we've spoken together on panels... at every opportunity J was prepared, informed, lively and motivating.  Audiences take well to Dr. Nichols as his speaking style is relaxed but compassionate. He is able to adjust his material from professional to layman and gives equal value and effort to both.  I highly recommend Dr. Wallace J. Nichols for your event."

— Deborah Lindsay, Producer and Radio Host Tomorrow Matters KRXA 540 AM “Talk Radio for a Better Tomorrow”

“As a conservation ecologist, I have attended many seminars and research presentations.  While most speakers are able to effectively explain their findings and discuss the science with interest and enthusiasm, few presenters have demonstrated the passion and dedication that is so apparent in Dr. Nichols when he speaks about his work.  

"J’s presentations go beyond the scientific research itself. They offer a picture of how science can and should be combined with community outreach, cooperation and environmental education.  In doing so, J truly connects with a wide audience, not just academic researchers.  For me, his discussion of the results that such an integrated approach to conservation can produce was both exciting and highly motivating.”

— Hannah Lucas, Western Washington University

"Wallace J. Nichols is an eloquent spokesperson, one may go as far as to say an avatar of water-health which encompasses both peace and unity, helping define who we essentially are as human beings — a "water species”.

His networking, Patreon site and Blue Mind Summits broaden and deepen our conversations about what we gain in embracing water to support our lives, in and through a rainbow of connections. They are legion: economic to therapeutic, synaptic to energetic, social to syncretic. Water awareness and action which, in all its forms, enlivens and soothes us, transports and cleans us, harbors and heals, whether rain, bath or shower. Aquifer, river or ocean. Pond, pool, or fountain.

Water, which indeed J points out so understatedly, needs our help as well.

J’s a friend, not just due to common associations with water (I am an ocean swim guide.) He’s as a sibling colleague, along with many a diver, oceanographer (as J was for years, and still is), surfer, swimmer, and water therapist who is "most at home” when near, on, in, or under water. I speak to this personally from difficult recent experience. During COVID-19 lockdown since March 2020, as soon as I could get outside in water on Martha’s Vineyard, starting in freshwater ponds, then especially in the ocean I so love and cherish, daily swimming has been keeping me sane and centered. Even I daresay, happy. (Besides playing music, empowering others to establish a water discipline such as ocean coastal swimming, has been the genuine thrill of my life!)

The thesis of Blue Mind is as straightforward as its practice is wholly inclusive. When we are "in touch with” water, especially in nature, our brain and body's genetic heritage causes us to auto re-set, recharge, and re-create. Water asks that we detach from rumination, and become acutely or hyper-aware, as in big-wave surf and diving with large marine life, such as whales or white shark. Or, as J documents in his book, when we're in calm situations, say, sitting by the seashore, water lightly lapping to shore  invites a meditative default state, ready to respond to anomalies, but continually soothed by the sea's irregular rhythms, as our minds are freed to observe and connect. Identifying with(in) and to water, we are drawn to feel connected with empathy, and to feel awe for creation, eliciting our instinctual care for life. For the sake of health and resiliency. Ours, and of all others.

Especially in our times of stacked crises: Climate-exacerbated fires and floods; COVID-19 Pandemic; police killings of innocent blacks calling for local to national systemic re-calibrations of power; economic insecurity outfalls of all the above; and on top of this, intense political polarization. Now more than ever, we need what J Nichols and others have been working to wake ourselves to: a conscious focus for individuals of water’s healing, energizing, community connecting ability— and J’s emphasis on multiple widespread introductions to schools/institutions of its theoretical, and proven practices.

Please support J's work on any level on his Patreon site, for as low as $1/month. Help him continue his work since lectures and conferences were cut-off by COVID-19 pandemic. Give his family some very needed support from their personal home's loss, burnt in the CZU Lightning Complex fires in their hometown of Davenport, California.

Written and sent with affection and our waters’ connection,

— Bob MacLean, Inner Vision Ocean Swimming

"I just wanted to say thank you again for all the great insights you shared so long ago about working in Baja.

Sea of Shadows just won Best Impact Campaign at Jackson WILD and you really were foundational to setting me on the right path."

I'm so grateful.

— Ru Mahoney

"I’ve followed and supported Wallace J Nichols’ work ever since hearing him present at a conference at De Pauw University more than 15 years ago. I was inspired by his conservation work around endangered sea turtles and then by his brilliant book, Blue Mind.

He is the real deal, a lover of water who recognizes and communicates that the health of humans, more than humans, and the waters of the earth are interdependent."

— Kim Manley Ort

"I love J's Blue Mind concept. I am trying to use the Blue Mind for a community grant in Rhode Island. RI is the ocean state but our organization is the Blackstone River Watershed Council/ Friends of the Blackstone has been cleaning the Blackstone River for 30 years. The Blackstone Valley is the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. The river was deemed a dead river in the 1970's. But that is another story that as a watershed group does not want to promote.

We have received a community grant called Project Blue Mind. The purpose of the grant is to bring the community on and around the Blackstone River and the 12 acres called Sycamore Landing because of a huge 300 year old Sycamore by the river.

We are using the river and Mother Nature to help the community with stress and anxiety. The center point of our project is a turtle pollinator garden. We also are working with the Narragansetts Native Americans to promote some basic values related to the turtle. We have local girl and boys scouts helping as well as the local chamber of commerce. The virus has hampered our volunteer base. We have received a lot of press. The potential of the grant is great.

Today we need a stress and anxiety reliever more than ever. I would like to become a patron and help Blue Mind help our communities heal."

— John Marsland

"I applaud you for staying your ground about emotion and science, I think your stand will make all the difference in the world."

— Cindy Mason, U.C. Berkeley, Co-Chair Technology & Philosophy, BISC Program, Computer Science

"J says it in his work, when we care about “something” we want to take care of it. Water, all forms, is so essential to my (our) wellbeing. I am so moved by how J's collaborative work with healthcare workers, scientists, artists, veterans, etc. proves again and again how water keeps us well. I am honored to be a part of this groundswell.

Being a patron gets me a little “Blue Mind” everyday."

— Gaye Muir

"I support J because it is vital to understand how healthy and accessible waterways affect our brains and bodies. More than ever, we need ways to recharge and restore naturally and Blue Mind is one of the best ways to do that.

I hope you'll join me in supporting his groundbreaking work."

— Brad Nahill

"I am a patron because J. asked and I respect and trust the way he wants to do and fund his work.

It’s automated. It’s impactful. It’s easy."

— Artie Nelson

“J’s work and friendship has been invaluable to me and to the success of my project The Last Plastic Straw. His useful words -- written and spoken -- have helped me craft my inclusive messaging, navigate the murky waters of non-profit politics & funding and rise above the negative messaging around environmental issues. There were many lean days when I just wanted to throw in the towel because of lack of collaboration and mindful messaging.

J has kept me connected to what is most important through his book, his Blue Mind heart-centered messaging,  his friendship and his informal mentorship whenever we speak. My experiences at Blue Mind conferences throughout the years have been the deep “continuing education” I have needed to stay resilient and relevant in my work.

The moment I was able to gain fiscal sponsorship and a steady paycheck for my efforts, was the moment I became a Patreon of J’s work. It is not nearly enough, as the returns continue to outweigh the small monthly inputs that I invest in J’s continued useful words and work that he shares with the world. J continues to be ahead of his time, and will help us all get to where we need to be, to not only survive but thrive in a Blue Mind state of mind in a world we all want to live in ”

— Jackie Nuñez

"On the occasion of meeting Wallace J. Nichols you know, right away, you have found a friend. Beyond the gentle gestures of this wise scholar, visionary thinker, intrepid adventurer, synthesizing author, and devoted inhabitant of this earth (and our oceans), I get the sense there is a lot more to come.

In fact, I know there will be plenty more insights from J. That’s why I walk with him."

— Neil Ever Osborne

“In an era when so many of us — especially young people — are concerned about our environment and what we can do to improve it — J's message is powerful, persuasive and personable.  He inspires his audiences to dream big when they consider what to do with their lives, and to also consider that small gestures can have a major impact on our planet over time.  He also took the time to meet with a great many of our graduates after his commencement speech.  They left our campus with a great sense of possibility as well as responsibility, and I'm confident they'll carry J's message (and his blue marble) with them for many years as they help to build a better future.”

— Ken Owen, Executive Director of Media Relations, DePauw University

"When I was first introduced to the work of Wallace J Nichols and the Blue Mind Summit (s) and the future plans for his book, I immediately thought of Thoreau.

As the project played out and his book came to life it became very obvious that shifting the manner in which we perceive this spinning blue ball we rocket through space and time on by connecting people to it via their natural essence (water) was a fantastic step towards personal health, freedom and creative power.

Though I am actually in the book, I have read it several times. It always brings me back to center, and renews my love and respect for our Ocean Ohana. I need that sort of life support at times. I believe everyone does.

In a world full of dissonant voices, J Nichols' stands out as one which will endure the test of time in his book and indeed all of his incredibly generous endeavors."

— David Pu'u

"The simple answer is that J is selfless in his advocacy for water.  The benefits of his work cascade well beyond individual benefits.

I feel it is my duty to honor that any way that I can."

— Scott C. Ramsey, PhD

"My heart goes out to J in these devastating times. I am touched by his authenticity and vulnerability in sharing his story. The world needs J's work. Just this last week, I shared in my webinar the power and beauty of Blue Mind with my participants. May you find (or rebuild) a new home with grace, beauty and inspiration."

— Sylvie Rokab

"I have become a Patreon just recently, but have been J's mentee, colleague, and friend for many years.

As a young Latin student full of passion and willingness to work in conservation, I joined an initiative in Mexico for the conservation of Pacific loggerhead sea turtles you were part of. My biggest dream of working with this magnificent species came true, and I still use so many of the lessons I learned in those years. Later on, J opened the doors of his beautiful home and family, and then supported me through my journey into being a Fulbright scholar.   After about 20 years in the conservation field I have learned that there are two main approaches to conservation outreach, mainly complementary. One instigates our urgency to act by teaching us about extinction, our negative impact on the planet, and the many things we can do to minimize or change them. The other one, more recent, tries to make us act by understanding the benefits we get from nature, the importance of nature for our survival, and how collectively investing in a healthy planet make us more resilient.

But then there is the “J approach”, which goes one step further and connects elements of the latter with many other fields such as neuroscience, psychology, marketing, etc. To my view, his approach dives deep into human emotion and makes us “think” about our connection with nature, but most importantly, it makes us “feel” how we belong to and are one with nature.

I think one of the incredible powers of this approach is that it can transcend individual groups of expertise and beliefs and bring us all together. I value enormously reading J's blogs and messages. It makes me stop for five minutes, take a deep breath and go outside myself and think of something greater, or sometimes smaller and essential. As we deal with so many local and global environmental challenges and feel sometimes hopeless or cynical, J's views, research and humanity help me navigate my work in conservation and in life with energy, positivity and a sense of belonging to a larger group of people across the world. It also brings new perspectives and ideas, triggering more curiosity and creativity on the reader’s side. I just wanted to say THANK YOU, stay strong, and keep me posted."

— Dr. Natalia Rossi

“I am a patron because Dr. Nichols puts into words and actions what I have felt from my first memory – water is joy, health, and well-being. His work to make people aware of the healing effects of water and the urgent need to keep our waters clean is so important, especially now. I am proud to be a part of helping him spread this message.”

I wish him well as he and his family move on from the devastating loss of their home."

— Katie Ryan-Lambert

"I have been on, under and near the water for most of my 64 years. I get tremendous healing when I jump off of my boat into the water. Swimming underwater truly is a blessing. If only every human felt comfortable being underwater. Supporting Blue Mind is a passion of mine. I am always talking about it. I have just ordered a bag of Blue Marbles,yeah! The work J is doing is crucial to the well-being of mankind. A Blue Mind is a healthy mind. My other passion is Laughter Yoga. Water and Laughter are my mental healing components. I will continue to spread the water."

— Doug Savage

"I'm a patron because years ago I reached out to ask if J would share information and resources with readers of my Climate of Our Future blog. J's whole purpose is to share his vision about the marine life and pure blue oceans that we're connected to. This vision is worth supporting and preserving."

— Deborah Scott

"I believe in the power of water, thanks to your persistent efforts to educate all of us. I also both admire and relate to that the way you've engaged with so many communities impacted by the dynamic climate changes in our world.

Over many years, you have constructed a compelling, compassionate, and pragmatic narrative and you practice what you preach, as a father, a scientist, a writer, a creator, and as a friend."

— Ben Sharp

"J. Nichols is among the most devoted, innovative, effective and humble advocates for our blue planet home I’ve ever encountered.

After 30 years of featuring leaders who understand the environment as the mother of all issues at Bioneers, J. stands out among so many who are making potent stands to heal our relationships -with our selves, each other and of course, all of life.

His understanding and integration of the human/nature balance and dance, and his creativity in bridging the false sense of separation we’ve inherited from a skewed culture, inspires me deeply.

I am honored to be among his patrons, and feel awed by his devotion and congruity."

— Nina Simons, Co-Founder & Chief Relationship Officer, Bioneers

"For me, being a patron is a way to express my appreciation of your work. I find J's environment conservation efforts and Blue Mind science to be of great value."

— Kumud K Singh

"J has a way of connecting the public to the real value of water!"

— Mike Sipe

"[Dr. Nichols] really understood our interdisciplinary interests and that made him the ideal CMBC speaker going beyond marine biology to economics, communication, health sciences, neurology and more. It was incredibly engaging for our students and a most entertaining presentation.  I'm sure the blue marbles will be a reminder and inspiration for all of us as we continue to love our water!"

--Penny Dockry, The Center for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation at Scripps Institution of Oceanography

"Your 'outside the box' collaboration resulted in a very insightful and thought provoking presentation that would have stood on its own as one of the highlights of the festival [BLUE Ocean Film Festival]."

— Matthew Spiegl, Esq.

"We support J because his voice rises above the chorus to offer insights from the unexplored corners of the environmental movement , where it bumps into human health and well being. What he finds there is often a cool drink of water for thirsty minds – and parched souls. Come on in, the water is fine..."

— Michael Stewart / Founder, Sustainable Surf & SeaTrees

"I am a patron because I believe in J's work, mentorship, vision, and values. J has always been 10 years ahead of the science/conservation community.

Live migratory tracking on the web? 1996 J was on it.

Concerned about plastic pollution? J was there from the mid-90's on.

Neuroconservation? You're not there yet but J's been on it for the last decade..

He is ahead of the curve, and the way he and Blue Mind approaches conservation has deeply influenced how we talk about Save The Waves, and I believe how we help people understand the value it delivers.

Plus, J was my Davenport neighbor office guy, and he has a very friendly big dog and beauty family."

— Nik Strong-Cvetich

"When we got the email that Dr. Nichols was coming to discuss the merger of the ocean and neuroscience, I was ecstatic to hear how he planned to make that work, and I must say, it was the most inspiring lecture I've ever attended at the Georgia Aquarium."

— Erika Stuebing, Senior Animal Care and Training Specialist, Georgia Aquarium

"I am a Patron of Wallace J. Nichols because I believe passionately in the work he does--and has been doing for decades--to help transform and better the lives of humans across the globe. J's creation of the "Blue Mind" concept, and his work in helping people lead a more balanced, happy life by being in, on, and around bodies of water; is more vital than ever in today's crazy world.

I'm grateful that there are still people out there like J willing to put the wellbeing of others ahead of his own. I would encourage anyone who would like to contribute to a healthier society to support his work by becoming a patron yourself.

Thank you J!"

— Sean Swentek

"J Nichols is one of the very best at engaging an audience, sparking meaningful thought and debate, and linking his message to your key objectives."

— Shane Toohey, Founder, AIP Group

"Everyone in the room was inspired and completely mesmerized by J's talk on the linkages between neuroscience and marine conservation. A friend even told me that J's message reminded him of why he was studying marine biology in the first place.  Being able to inspire any person whether it be at Every Body Eats eight months ago or at a small panel last Wednesday is truly a gift, and I am so glad that Dr. Nichols was able to bring positivity to the work we do and share that true conservation requires a person entirely--their intellect, time, physicality, empathy, and love."

— Natalie Tran, Food Systems Education and Research Coordinator, University of California, Santa Cruz

"Why am I a Blue Mind Patreon?

J’s heart, passion and wisdom. His love for the water and all life. He is a voice for a better world.

I’ve always wanted to give back in some way, to contribute to help the oceans and our planet.

I found J when researching the science behind why we feel the way we do when we are in the presence of the beautiful, deep blue… knowing there must be more to it. His book was everything I was looking for.

Now, as a patron, I know I am making an investment not only in J’s work, but also in it rippling out and making this world a better place, for all of us here, and all to come. Thank you J for keeping our blue marble blue with all the work you do.

If you’re reading this and thinking of joining Patreon, I invite you to invest — even if simply a dollar a month, and know it is well spent — in the hands of a true heart, a wise soul, and a generous man, making this world a better, more connected, place for all.

As J says, 'I wish you water.'"

— Bobbie Jo Van Den Plas

"I joined Patreon as a fellow Keeper, a believer in the power of water in the everyday and in the quest for a future of joy and balance. It is my privilege to know kinship through these fractured days.

I joined Patreon as a child growing up in Capitola in the 50s, a student at Santa Cruz in the late sixties and early seventies, and a resident of San Francisco now.  It reinforces my geography of hope.

I smile at, cling to, respect, and take heart from the  blue marble."

— Diane Walton

"It has been wonderful discovering that Dr. Nichols is not just an important thinker with global outreach, but also a local hero.

"Blue Mind" gave support to my long-held but hard-to-articulate instincts about how water heals.

When a 2016 concussion led me to seek frequent comfort on the shores I have always enjoyed--which I later learned he had called the Slow Coast--I noticed that the ocean was my most reliable salve. In exploring this idea, I found his work and now share it widely."

— Erika Weisbrich

"I'm a patron because J's shares his artist's heart and science mind with humbleness, grace, and courage. Because Blue Mind. Because of his searing honesty, vulnerability, and willingness to share his path forward, no matter the stumbles. Because your rare genius and open heartedness inspire so many of us as we work through these times. Because I love the ocean and my heart breaks for what humanity has done. With deepest gratitude."

— Candace Calloway Whiting

"In his book J bridges the gap between the science and the feeling many of us get when in, on, under or close to the water.  The power of Blue Mind is real, is important and needs to be shared.  That is why I am a patron."

— Mark Wilson

"I support J because I think his work is valuable and significant for the future of how we understand our relationship to water."

— Tom Woodard

Patron Photos:

1. Dr. Scott Ramsey: Standing in the 40 degree Chilkat River talking Blue Mind and paying homage.

2. Diane Walton.

3. Artie Nelson.

4. Kim Manley Ort: from Lake Ontario.

5. Paul Hilbink.

6. Nina Simons.

7. Candace Calloway Whiting: It's hard to put words to the feelings I had when I snapped this picture - the emotions were too elusive and maybe larger than my capacity to process, but the sense lingers to this day when I look at the photo.  Black Diamond Summit, Blue Mind interlaced with aloha. Honolulu, Hawaii, 2007.

8 & 9. Erika Weisbrich: In the water in Cornwall and seeking healing at Gray Whale Cove State Beach.

10. Bob MacLean: Inner Vision Ocean Swiming

11. Jackie Nuñez: River Canyon Selfie.

12. Bobbie Jo Van Den Plas: Blue Mind declared a mermaid must-read!