Set sail with maritime historian Sal Mercogliano as we dive deep into the enduring mystery of the Edmund Fitzgerald, a legendary ship lost on the Great Lakes 50 years ago this week. From chilling tales of mariners’ lives and the critical role of iron ore trade, to the evolving challenges facing commercial shipping, this episode explores what really happened that stormy night in 1975—and why the story resonates today. Join host Jeff Malec and Sal for a wide-ranging conversation about Great Lakes lore, the economics and environmental impact of shipping, and what the future holds for this vital but often-overlooked industry. Whether you’re a shipping enthusiast or new to the story, you’ll come away with fresh insights and a newfound appreciation for the ships and people that keep goods moving around the globe. SEND IT!

Chapters:

00:00-00:50= Intro

00:51-4:04= From the High Seas to the Classroom: A Mariner’s Journey and Life Aboard

4:05-19:48= Lost Legends and Great Lakes Mysteries: The Edmund Fitzgerald and Life Aboard

19:49-34:45= From Iron Ore to Global Trade: Modern Shipping, Infrastructure, and Industry Shifts

34:46-39:32=Charting a Greener Course: The Future of Shipping and Environmental Innovation

39:33-57:05= Shipping’s Allure: Public Fascination, Industry Mystique, & Movie magic

From the Episode:

Sal Mercoglianos Youtube Channel - What’s going on with Shipping?

Highlighted Seafaring movies:

Action in the North Atlantic

Moby Dick

Captain Courageous

Disclaimer: This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, or tax advice. All opinions expressed by podcast participants are solely their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RCM Alternatives, their affiliates, or companies featured. Due to industry regulations, participants on this podcast are instructed not to make specific trade recommendations, nor reference past or potential profits. And listeners are reminded that managed futures, commodity trading, and other alternative investments are complex and carry a risk of substantial losses. As such, they are not suitable for all investors. For more information, visit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.rcmalternatives.com/disclaimer⁠⁠⁠⁠

When the Gales of November Come Early: the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, and Modern Maritime Trade with Sal Mercogliano

The Derivative