Willis Spears Jr. speaks about his 54 years as a commercial fisherman off of Cousins Island, ME, focusing on the history of shrimping, the differences between dragging and trapping shrimp, and the changes in the Portland working waterfront over his lifetime. He describes the interaction between fishermen and Portland authorities in their efforts to advocate for the fishing community’s needs and emphasizes the importance of passing information and knowledge to future generations.

Stephen Train is a seasoned commercial fisherman hailing from Long Island, Maine, a tight-knit community deeply rooted in maritime traditions. Born into a family with a rich legacy of fishing, Train has spent the majority of his life navigating the waters of the North Atlantic, harvesting the sea's bounty. His intimate knowledge of the local marine environment, coupled with years of hands-on experience, has made him a respected figure among his peers.

Russell Brohl, a retired ship captain and member of the port authority, is a long-term resident of South Bass Island, Ohio, with deep roots in the local community. His life has been intricately woven into the fabric of the island, where he has witnessed and participated in its evolution over the years. Brohl's background is a tapestry of experiences that range from the day-to-day management of island affairs to the stewardship of its natural and cultural heritage.

Roland Lewis, the president and CEO of the Waterfront Alliance, is a prominent figure in urban planning and environmental advocacy, particularly in the context of New York City's waterfronts. Lewis has dedicated his career to the revitalization and sustainable development of the city's coastal areas. His expertise encompasses a range of issues from urban design to policy reform, with a focus on creating resilient and accessible waterfronts for both economic and recreational purposes.

Peter Huston is a filmmaker and active member of the Chamber of Commerce on South Bass Island, Ohio. His professional and personal endeavors have positioned him as a knowledgeable figure in the community, particularly in matters concerning the local waterfront. Huston's engagement with the island's development and his creative background give him a unique perspective on the historical and contemporary issues facing his community. His work in the film industry has likely honed his storytelling abilities, enabling him to articulate the narrative of the island's evolution effectively.

Nicole Faghin is a coastal management specialist affiliated with Washington Sea Grant, an organization dedicated to fostering sustainable use of marine resources. Her professional endeavors are primarily centered around the Puget Sound region, where she engages with waterfront communities. Faghin's work encompasses a broad spectrum of issues, including the preservation of working waterfronts, the mediation of land use conflicts, the addressing of environmental concerns, and the advancement of workforce education.

From initially moving to Traverse City, Michigan, to open a dive shop, Mike Wills has worked in a variety of waterfront-related jobs, from working on boats, operating two marinas, opening a community sailing program, and developing three waterfront real estate in downtown Traverse City. Wills serves as the chair of the Discovery Center Great Lakes, a prominent organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the working waterfront in Traverse City, Michigan.

Meaghan Gass serves as an extension educator with Michigan Sea Grant, a collaborative effort that fosters economic growth and protects Michigan’s coastal, Great Lakes resources through education, research, and outreach. In her role, Gass is deeply involved in the Great Lakes region, particularly focusing on the working waterfronts. Her work is driven by a commitment to the understanding and stewardship of freshwater resources.

Working for a non-regulatory group, the Michigan Office of the Great Lakes in Lansing, MI, Matthew Preisser does statewide and regional planning work to protect and restore the Great Lakes and the communities that depend on them. He serves in a professional capacity within the Michigan Office of the Great Lakes, where his responsibilities are centered on coastal zone management and the execution of federal programs pertinent to the region. His role is critical in fostering connections and providing support to the island communities scattered throughout the Great Lakes.

Matt Campo is a senior research specialist at Rutgers University, where he has dedicated his career to the study and advocacy of sustainable urban planning, with a particular focus on waterfront communities. His expertise encompasses a broad range of issues related to coastal areas, including industrial development, commercial fishing, recreational use, and the challenges posed by climate change and sea level rise. Campo's work is characterized by a deep understanding of the complex dynamics that shape waterfronts and the diverse needs of the populations that depend on them.