Josh (given the nickname “Toad” while in undergrad) developed his passion for science, music, and nature while growing up in the small harbor town of San Pedro, California. Home to a biodiverse coastline as well as a vibrant punk community, the town nurtured both his scientific curiosity and creative spirit. This passion led him to pursue a Master’s degree at San Francisco State University and a PhD at the University of Nevada, Reno, both in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology. Along the way, photography became a natural extension of his scientific perspective and artistic sensibilities, offering a way to tell stories that blend art, exploration, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.