Earth on the Rocks Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/geology-on-the-rocks Welcome to Earth on the Rocks, a show where we get to know the person behind the science over drinks. Each episode will highlight a new scientist in the earth and atmospheric sciences to learn more about their journey, what interests them, and who they are outside of their science. Host: Shelby Rader Producer: Cari Metz Artwork: Connor Leimgruber Board Operator: Kate Crum, Betsy Leija Funding for this podcast was provided by the National Science Foundation grant EAR-2422824. © 2026 Shelby Rader ed427b55-c3d2-5dc6-ab1b-5059eb0e0b8a no Welcome to the show! en Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:00:06 -0400 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:01:37 -0400 https://img.transistorcdn.com/9j-kJ0RGK6AXcUdrsjas36k_2NzjuNFbhma4AwZ57h8/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9lZjMz/OWY1MDg1YjllYWU5/NzJlMWNmY2U2YWMx/NDE5OC5wbmc.jpg Earth on the Rocks episodic Shelby Rader Welcome to Earth on the Rocks, a show where we get to know the person behind the science over drinks. Each episode will highlight a new scientist in the earth and atmospheric sciences to learn more about their journey, what interests them, and who they are outside of their science. Host: Shelby Rader Producer: Cari Metz Artwork: Connor Leimgruber Board Operator: Kate Crum, Betsy Leija Funding for this podcast was provided by the National Science Foundation grant EAR-2422824. Welcome to Earth on the Rocks, a show where we get to know the person behind the science over drinks. Shelby Rader No No Sweet dreams are made of reefs - with Lorena Jevnikar 2 2 12 12 Sweet dreams are made of reefs - with Lorena Jevnikar full 00a94c7c-daab-47e1-bc13-028d9c603e10 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bc045888 On the show today is Lorena Jevnikar, a masters student focused on conservation paleobiology through studying coral diversity in the Caribbean. Hear about the Beverly (a drink you need to experience for yourself), how coral populations are declining and why we need to conserve them, coral bleaching and its relationship to algae, the state stone of Michigan and how it inspired Lorena's journey, and what life is like as a masters student.

]]> On the show today is Lorena Jevnikar, a masters student focused on conservation paleobiology through studying coral diversity in the Caribbean. Hear about the Beverly (a drink you need to experience for yourself), how coral populations are declining and why we need to conserve them, coral bleaching and its relationship to algae, the state stone of Michigan and how it inspired Lorena's journey, and what life is like as a masters student.

]]> Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2461 On the show today is Lorena Jevnikar, a masters student focused on conservation paleobiology through studying coral diversity in the Caribbean. Hear about the Beverly (a drink you need to experience for yourself), how coral populations are declining and why we need to conserve them, coral bleaching and its relationship to algae, the state stone of Michigan and how it inspired Lorena's journey, and what life is like as a masters student.

]]> coral, coral reef, paleobiology, biology, paleontology, conservation No Islands in the stream (that is what we build) - with Dr. Doug Edmonds 2 2 11 11 Islands in the stream (that is what we build) - with Dr. Doug Edmonds full a86c4f5c-ed72-4a4d-8e48-08e3dd35fea9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ff853590 Joining the show today is Dr. Doug Edmonds, a sedimentologist interested in how sediment is generated, transported, and deposited and how that may change over time. Hear about sediment's role in human habitation and resource development, whether state boundaries are accurate, how LiDAR works for measuring topography, the balance between field and computer work, and about cell phones in schools (and the olden days when you had to actually press out text messages using T9 - look it up).

]]> Joining the show today is Dr. Doug Edmonds, a sedimentologist interested in how sediment is generated, transported, and deposited and how that may change over time. Hear about sediment's role in human habitation and resource development, whether state boundaries are accurate, how LiDAR works for measuring topography, the balance between field and computer work, and about cell phones in schools (and the olden days when you had to actually press out text messages using T9 - look it up).

]]> Fri, 03 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2469 Joining the show today is Dr. Doug Edmonds, a sedimentologist interested in how sediment is generated, transported, and deposited and how that may change over time. Hear about sediment's role in human habitation and resource development, whether state boundaries are accurate, how LiDAR works for measuring topography, the balance between field and computer work, and about cell phones in schools (and the olden days when you had to actually press out text messages using T9 - look it up).

]]> geology, earth science, sediment, weathering, rivers, deltas, LiDAR No Cry me a(n atmospheric) river - with Diya Kamnani 2 2 10 10 Cry me a(n atmospheric) river - with Diya Kamnani full cca6c3b9-3f6c-461c-a54b-3039215a2d93 https://share.transistor.fm/s/57e0040b On the show today we have Diya Kamnani, a current PhD student studying atmospheric rivers. Hear about the health benefits of a gin and tonic, how you identify an atmospheric river, how pilots take atmospheric rivers into account for their flight plans, Diya's work with invasive species (and how her skills in the earth sciences translated there), and international versions of American fast food chains.

]]> On the show today we have Diya Kamnani, a current PhD student studying atmospheric rivers. Hear about the health benefits of a gin and tonic, how you identify an atmospheric river, how pilots take atmospheric rivers into account for their flight plans, Diya's work with invasive species (and how her skills in the earth sciences translated there), and international versions of American fast food chains.

]]> Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2537 On the show today we have Diya Kamnani, a current PhD student studying atmospheric rivers. Hear about the health benefits of a gin and tonic, how you identify an atmospheric river, how pilots take atmospheric rivers into account for their flight plans, Diya's work with invasive species (and how her skills in the earth sciences translated there), and international versions of American fast food chains.

]]> atmospheric science, atmospheric river, NCAR, modeling, graduate school No Lucy in the Sky with Aerosols - with Dr. Ben Kravitz 2 2 9 9 Lucy in the Sky with Aerosols - with Dr. Ben Kravitz full e0c42588-ce24-47dc-92ce-708df25a3450 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1d44b464 Leading off the second half of season 2 is Dr. Ben Kravitz, a climate scientist who focuses on modeling Earth's response when we push the Earth system involving things like greenhouse gas emissions or geoengineering. Hear about trash rain (and why weather balloons may not be the best bet for geoengineering), how we can model the impacts of stratospheric injection (where we intentionally put things in our air to try to combat climate change), what goes into a Model Intercomparison Project (MIP), and some thoughts on the Winter Olympics.

]]> Leading off the second half of season 2 is Dr. Ben Kravitz, a climate scientist who focuses on modeling Earth's response when we push the Earth system involving things like greenhouse gas emissions or geoengineering. Hear about trash rain (and why weather balloons may not be the best bet for geoengineering), how we can model the impacts of stratospheric injection (where we intentionally put things in our air to try to combat climate change), what goes into a Model Intercomparison Project (MIP), and some thoughts on the Winter Olympics.

]]> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2537 Leading off the second half of season 2 is Dr. Ben Kravitz, a climate scientist who focuses on modeling Earth's response when we push the Earth system involving things like greenhouse gas emissions or geoengineering. Hear about trash rain (and why weather balloons may not be the best bet for geoengineering), how we can model the impacts of stratospheric injection (where we intentionally put things in our air to try to combat climate change), what goes into a Model Intercomparison Project (MIP), and some thoughts on the Winter Olympics.

]]> climate science, geoengineering, marine cloud brightening, climate modeling No All I want for Christmas is my two shark teeth - with Molly Karnes 2 2 8 8 All I want for Christmas is my two shark teeth - with Molly Karnes full 3e2946a0-c3b0-4d66-8e6e-455765d96833 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2ed53416 On the season 2 midseason finale we welcome Molly Karnes, a stable isotope ecologist and lab technician. Hear about a new regional drink - Cheerwine, using shark teeth (both modern and ancient) to understand the environment in four dimensions, predatory snails, how a lab technician is a bit like an instrument mechanic, and a new crossover between Sonic and Jello.

]]> On the season 2 midseason finale we welcome Molly Karnes, a stable isotope ecologist and lab technician. Hear about a new regional drink - Cheerwine, using shark teeth (both modern and ancient) to understand the environment in four dimensions, predatory snails, how a lab technician is a bit like an instrument mechanic, and a new crossover between Sonic and Jello.

]]> Fri, 26 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2602 On the season 2 midseason finale we welcome Molly Karnes, a stable isotope ecologist and lab technician. Hear about a new regional drink - Cheerwine, using shark teeth (both modern and ancient) to understand the environment in four dimensions, predatory snails, how a lab technician is a bit like an instrument mechanic, and a new crossover between Sonic and Jello.

]]> stable isotopes, shark teeth, ecology, snails, geology, earth sciences No Just add water - with Janie Wittmer 2 2 7 7 Just add water - with Janie Wittmer full e7d65213-a9d8-470c-9bdf-2b0c271f4d83 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a6312819 Joining the show today is Janie Wittmer, a PhD student focusing on hydrogeochemistry. Hear what happens if you were to drink incredibly pure water (hint: it's not great), what life is like in environmental consulting, how rocks can actually help with carbon emissions, and a recommendation for a potential electronic album of the year.

]]> Joining the show today is Janie Wittmer, a PhD student focusing on hydrogeochemistry. Hear what happens if you were to drink incredibly pure water (hint: it's not great), what life is like in environmental consulting, how rocks can actually help with carbon emissions, and a recommendation for a potential electronic album of the year.

]]> Fri, 19 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2457 Joining the show today is Janie Wittmer, a PhD student focusing on hydrogeochemistry. Hear what happens if you were to drink incredibly pure water (hint: it's not great), what life is like in environmental consulting, how rocks can actually help with carbon emissions, and a recommendation for a potential electronic album of the year.

]]> geology, hydrology, hydrogeology, environmental consulting, groundwater, carbon capture No The defense rests (congratulations Doctor!) - with Dr. Danielle Peltier 2 2 6 6 The defense rests (congratulations Doctor!) - with Dr. Danielle Peltier full fa68268c-7524-4c09-aacb-dcebc19f6f13 https://share.transistor.fm/s/057d44b3 Joining us today is the newly minted Dr. Danielle (Danny) Peltier, a paleontologist or geologist/paleoanthropologist that studies human evolution through time. Ever wondered what it means when someone says they've defended their PhD? Listen to hear about everything that leads up to and then what happens during that process, culminating in becoming a doctor, along with learning about the volcanic connections to human evolution, working at White Sands National Park through Geoscientists in the Park (including why the sand stays so cool), the transition from undergraduate to graduate school, and tips for cooking for one or meal prep.

]]> Joining us today is the newly minted Dr. Danielle (Danny) Peltier, a paleontologist or geologist/paleoanthropologist that studies human evolution through time. Ever wondered what it means when someone says they've defended their PhD? Listen to hear about everything that leads up to and then what happens during that process, culminating in becoming a doctor, along with learning about the volcanic connections to human evolution, working at White Sands National Park through Geoscientists in the Park (including why the sand stays so cool), the transition from undergraduate to graduate school, and tips for cooking for one or meal prep.

]]> Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2718 Joining us today is the newly minted Dr. Danielle (Danny) Peltier, a paleontologist or geologist/paleoanthropologist that studies human evolution through time. Ever wondered what it means when someone says they've defended their PhD? Listen to hear about everything that leads up to and then what happens during that process, culminating in becoming a doctor, along with learning about the volcanic connections to human evolution, working at White Sands National Park through Geoscientists in the Park (including why the sand stays so cool), the transition from undergraduate to graduate school, and tips for cooking for one or meal prep.

]]> paleontology, paleoanthropology, geology, PhD defense, Olduvai Gorge, volcanism, eruption, evolution, White Sands No Sliiiide to the left, sliiiide to the right, earthquake - with Dr. Ginny Gong 2 2 5 5 Sliiiide to the left, sliiiide to the right, earthquake - with Dr. Ginny Gong full d3e65734-c34a-4420-89aa-182a8a76eb62 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5ea29a66 Joining us today is Dr. Ginny Gong, an observational and earthquake seismologist studying what causes earthquakes and what they can tell us about our planet. Learn about white coffee, how we can tell the structure of the Earth deep below the surface, what a seismometer is and how we install or deploy them, the logistics of measuring plate movement and deformation in the oceans (which can involve a cruise, some melting metal, and balloons), and IU's connection to CBS's Sunday Morning. 

]]> Joining us today is Dr. Ginny Gong, an observational and earthquake seismologist studying what causes earthquakes and what they can tell us about our planet. Learn about white coffee, how we can tell the structure of the Earth deep below the surface, what a seismometer is and how we install or deploy them, the logistics of measuring plate movement and deformation in the oceans (which can involve a cruise, some melting metal, and balloons), and IU's connection to CBS's Sunday Morning. 

]]> Fri, 05 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2744 Joining us today is Dr. Ginny Gong, an observational and earthquake seismologist studying what causes earthquakes and what they can tell us about our planet. Learn about white coffee, how we can tell the structure of the Earth deep below the surface, what a seismometer is and how we install or deploy them, the logistics of measuring plate movement and deformation in the oceans (which can involve a cruise, some melting metal, and balloons), and IU's connection to CBS's Sunday Morning. 

]]> earthquake, seismometer, Earth, geophysics, ocean, Pompeii No You are what you eat - with Dr. Peter Sauer 2 2 4 4 You are what you eat - with Dr. Peter Sauer full 3d971165-b19a-4557-8766-35adf5c6d96a https://share.transistor.fm/s/71004855 Join us today to hear from Dr. Peter Sauer, a low-temperature geochemist who specializes in stable isotopes and organic chemistry. Learn about his work on Earth's surface that encompasses living things, geology, and history (both Earth and human history), how isotopes were applied to identify and understand the life of King Richard III, lake sediments and their connection to ice sheets, the art to problem solving and troubleshooting, and the benefit to being curious.

]]> Join us today to hear from Dr. Peter Sauer, a low-temperature geochemist who specializes in stable isotopes and organic chemistry. Learn about his work on Earth's surface that encompasses living things, geology, and history (both Earth and human history), how isotopes were applied to identify and understand the life of King Richard III, lake sediments and their connection to ice sheets, the art to problem solving and troubleshooting, and the benefit to being curious.

]]> Fri, 28 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2670 Join us today to hear from Dr. Peter Sauer, a low-temperature geochemist who specializes in stable isotopes and organic chemistry. Learn about his work on Earth's surface that encompasses living things, geology, and history (both Earth and human history), how isotopes were applied to identify and understand the life of King Richard III, lake sediments and their connection to ice sheets, the art to problem solving and troubleshooting, and the benefit to being curious.

]]> geochemistry, archaeology, ivory, stable isotopes, diet, climate, lake sediment No Mountain lions, birds, and bears - oh my! - with Dr. Erika Elswick 2 2 3 3 Mountain lions, birds, and bears - oh my! - with Dr. Erika Elswick full 333f6453-3548-4fe5-a24a-e800658ede00 https://share.transistor.fm/s/be5f2d23 Join us today to hear from Dr. Erika Elswick, a low temperature geochemist and Director of the IU Field Station. Learn about the aggressive squirrels in the Grand Canyon, museum work, legacy mines and Superfund sites (including the Berkeley Pit), a bit about the IU Field Station, and some fun side quests of Erika's including her impressive birding abilities.

]]> Join us today to hear from Dr. Erika Elswick, a low temperature geochemist and Director of the IU Field Station. Learn about the aggressive squirrels in the Grand Canyon, museum work, legacy mines and Superfund sites (including the Berkeley Pit), a bit about the IU Field Station, and some fun side quests of Erika's including her impressive birding abilities.

]]> Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2881 Join us today to hear from Dr. Erika Elswick, a low temperature geochemist and Director of the IU Field Station. Learn about the aggressive squirrels in the Grand Canyon, museum work, legacy mines and Superfund sites (including the Berkeley Pit), a bit about the IU Field Station, and some fun side quests of Erika's including her impressive birding abilities.

]]> geochemistry, earth science, field camp, geology, mine, mining, legacy mines No No bones about it - with Owen Madsen 2 2 2 2 No bones about it - with Owen Madsen full f8b8a8ee-6639-4044-9dc7-b566a28ece99 https://share.transistor.fm/s/599164c1 On this episode, hear from Owen Madsen, a current Ph.D. candidate studying paleontology and self-proclaimed professional question asker. Learn about the Gray Fossil Site, an unusually fossil-rich site in eastern Tennessee that gives us a window into the climate of the past for this region, the importance of science communication and how that works at different levels, the North American lion - a now extinct lion species that is a favorite of Owen's, and the appeal of physical media. 

]]> On this episode, hear from Owen Madsen, a current Ph.D. candidate studying paleontology and self-proclaimed professional question asker. Learn about the Gray Fossil Site, an unusually fossil-rich site in eastern Tennessee that gives us a window into the climate of the past for this region, the importance of science communication and how that works at different levels, the North American lion - a now extinct lion species that is a favorite of Owen's, and the appeal of physical media. 

]]> Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2787 On this episode, hear from Owen Madsen, a current Ph.D. candidate studying paleontology and self-proclaimed professional question asker. Learn about the Gray Fossil Site, an unusually fossil-rich site in eastern Tennessee that gives us a window into the climate of the past for this region, the importance of science communication and how that works at different levels, the North American lion - a now extinct lion species that is a favorite of Owen's, and the appeal of physical media. 

]]> fossils, paleontology, geochemistry, outreach, science communication No Navier-Stokes for different folks - with Dr. Paul Staten 2 2 1 1 Navier-Stokes for different folks - with Dr. Paul Staten full 42354b7f-37ff-45ae-a074-a630e68c2c9f https://share.transistor.fm/s/f9b5f000 Join us as we talk with Dr. Paul Staten, an atmospheric and climate dynamicist interested in large-scale wind patterns that impact weather and climate. Hear about the importance of the winds near the tropics for our weather all across the globe, orchestral video game music, how we can understand fluid behaviors through Navier-Stokes (and Paul's attempt at a million dollar prize), and one of the (IMO) greatest scientific success stories - the ozone hole - and its relation to weather and climate.

]]> Join us as we talk with Dr. Paul Staten, an atmospheric and climate dynamicist interested in large-scale wind patterns that impact weather and climate. Hear about the importance of the winds near the tropics for our weather all across the globe, orchestral video game music, how we can understand fluid behaviors through Navier-Stokes (and Paul's attempt at a million dollar prize), and one of the (IMO) greatest scientific success stories - the ozone hole - and its relation to weather and climate.

]]> Fri, 07 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2482 Join us as we talk with Dr. Paul Staten, an atmospheric and climate dynamicist interested in large-scale wind patterns that impact weather and climate. Hear about the importance of the winds near the tropics for our weather all across the globe, orchestral video game music, how we can understand fluid behaviors through Navier-Stokes (and Paul's attempt at a million dollar prize), and one of the (IMO) greatest scientific success stories - the ozone hole - and its relation to weather and climate.

]]> atmospheric sciences, wind, weather, climate, reanalysis, modeling No Until next time - with Dr. Kaj Johnson 1 1 17 17 Until next time - with Dr. Kaj Johnson full b5d6df00-0b5c-4f28-8db8-15ae865fe92a https://share.transistor.fm/s/367beabb We have a few surprises for our season 1 finale featuring Dr. Kaj Johnson, a geophysicist studying earthquakes remotely. Hear about Kaj's journey into the field, the connection between show choirs and teaching, listen in on a couple of potential new segments he promotes (including a drink of non-choice and a friendly competition), hear from a couple of new voices with familiar names - Cari Metz (our producer) and Betsy Leijas (our technical board operator), and stick around for Walther's Outlaws (our department band)...it's worth the wait.

Thanks to all of our listeners for sticking with us over the season, it has been so much fun getting to highlight so many great and interesting people in the field. I hope you join us again next season for new guests and stories (and maybe a new segment or two if Kaj has his way).

Special thanks on this episode to Cari Metz and Betsy Leijas for their contributions. Thanks, too, to Walther's Outlaws members - Kaj Johnson (vocals and guitar), Andrea Stevens Goddard (mandolin), Stuart Kenderes (banjo), Andrea Bridges (vocals), Jake Gearon (guitar), Mel Humbarger (bass), Arya Gotoh (vocals). Special thanks to Kyle Fulford for his technical expertise and leading the band recording. And thanks overall to the National Science Foundation for their financial support that makes the show possible.

]]> We have a few surprises for our season 1 finale featuring Dr. Kaj Johnson, a geophysicist studying earthquakes remotely. Hear about Kaj's journey into the field, the connection between show choirs and teaching, listen in on a couple of potential new segments he promotes (including a drink of non-choice and a friendly competition), hear from a couple of new voices with familiar names - Cari Metz (our producer) and Betsy Leijas (our technical board operator), and stick around for Walther's Outlaws (our department band)...it's worth the wait.

Thanks to all of our listeners for sticking with us over the season, it has been so much fun getting to highlight so many great and interesting people in the field. I hope you join us again next season for new guests and stories (and maybe a new segment or two if Kaj has his way).

Special thanks on this episode to Cari Metz and Betsy Leijas for their contributions. Thanks, too, to Walther's Outlaws members - Kaj Johnson (vocals and guitar), Andrea Stevens Goddard (mandolin), Stuart Kenderes (banjo), Andrea Bridges (vocals), Jake Gearon (guitar), Mel Humbarger (bass), Arya Gotoh (vocals). Special thanks to Kyle Fulford for his technical expertise and leading the band recording. And thanks overall to the National Science Foundation for their financial support that makes the show possible.

]]> Fri, 02 May 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 3421 We have a few surprises for our season 1 finale featuring Dr. Kaj Johnson, a geophysicist studying earthquakes remotely. Hear about Kaj's journey into the field, the connection between show choirs and teaching, listen in on a couple of potential new segments he promotes (including a drink of non-choice and a friendly competition), hear from a couple of new voices with familiar names - Cari Metz (our producer) and Betsy Leijas (our technical board operator), and stick around for Walther's Outlaws (our department band)...it's worth the wait.

Thanks to all of our listeners for sticking with us over the season, it has been so much fun getting to highlight so many great and interesting people in the field. I hope you join us again next season for new guests and stories (and maybe a new segment or two if Kaj has his way).

Special thanks on this episode to Cari Metz and Betsy Leijas for their contributions. Thanks, too, to Walther's Outlaws members - Kaj Johnson (vocals and guitar), Andrea Stevens Goddard (mandolin), Stuart Kenderes (banjo), Andrea Bridges (vocals), Jake Gearon (guitar), Mel Humbarger (bass), Arya Gotoh (vocals). Special thanks to Kyle Fulford for his technical expertise and leading the band recording. And thanks overall to the National Science Foundation for their financial support that makes the show possible.

]]> geology, geophysics, earthquakes, earth sciences, music, band, show choir No Blowing your socks off - with Dr. Arndt Schimmelmann 1 1 16 16 Blowing your socks off - with Dr. Arndt Schimmelmann full 5aad224c-28de-4b4d-970d-815f15b1d270 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f7fa247d Dr. Arndt Schimmelmann joins us today, a geochemist focusing on organics in both natural systems and when developing lab standards. Listen in to hear about a couple of close calls in the lab, exciting field work in caves and lakes in Vietnam, his well-known reference materials program (including a range of standards from foods to hydrocarbons to caffeine!), and his views on the current state of the public trust in science.

]]> Dr. Arndt Schimmelmann joins us today, a geochemist focusing on organics in both natural systems and when developing lab standards. Listen in to hear about a couple of close calls in the lab, exciting field work in caves and lakes in Vietnam, his well-known reference materials program (including a range of standards from foods to hydrocarbons to caffeine!), and his views on the current state of the public trust in science.

]]> Fri, 25 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2738 Dr. Arndt Schimmelmann joins us today, a geochemist focusing on organics in both natural systems and when developing lab standards. Listen in to hear about a couple of close calls in the lab, exciting field work in caves and lakes in Vietnam, his well-known reference materials program (including a range of standards from foods to hydrocarbons to caffeine!), and his views on the current state of the public trust in science.

]]> earth sciences, geosciences, organic geochemistry, caves, lake cores No A dose of vitamin sea - with Dr. Claudia Johnson 1 1 15 15 A dose of vitamin sea - with Dr. Claudia Johnson full 8ebb7828-f8c7-473f-8d09-c2a93604e3f6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4da0a890 On the show today is Dr. Claudia Johnson, a geobiologist studying ecosystems of the past and present to understand what adaptations things like corals have made to survive environmental changes over geologic time. Hear about coral reefs and coral farming (or growing baby corals to then place in various spots in our oceans), the role of reefs in our daily lives (even when we don't realize it, like for fisheries, hurricane protection, and the global economy), how we are always evolving as learners and teachers, and the surprise appearance of scuba gear at the Oscars.

]]> On the show today is Dr. Claudia Johnson, a geobiologist studying ecosystems of the past and present to understand what adaptations things like corals have made to survive environmental changes over geologic time. Hear about coral reefs and coral farming (or growing baby corals to then place in various spots in our oceans), the role of reefs in our daily lives (even when we don't realize it, like for fisheries, hurricane protection, and the global economy), how we are always evolving as learners and teachers, and the surprise appearance of scuba gear at the Oscars.

]]> Fri, 18 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2909 On the show today is Dr. Claudia Johnson, a geobiologist studying ecosystems of the past and present to understand what adaptations things like corals have made to survive environmental changes over geologic time. Hear about coral reefs and coral farming (or growing baby corals to then place in various spots in our oceans), the role of reefs in our daily lives (even when we don't realize it, like for fisheries, hurricane protection, and the global economy), how we are always evolving as learners and teachers, and the surprise appearance of scuba gear at the Oscars.

]]> geology, geobiology, fossils, coral reefs, paleontology, scuba No Ice, ice baby - with Dr. David Lilien 1 1 14 14 Ice, ice baby - with Dr. David Lilien full 028e90a7-1a2f-4ca1-9b10-fd49230024b4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a4acd4ce Joining us today is Dr. David Lilien, a glaciologist studying glaciers and ice sheets and how ice moves. Learn about party ice - popping and fizzy glacier ice, how ice flows and moves (and how we measure it!), what goes into a field excursion to study ice (like in Antarctica or Greenland), and mushroom hunting!

]]> Joining us today is Dr. David Lilien, a glaciologist studying glaciers and ice sheets and how ice moves. Learn about party ice - popping and fizzy glacier ice, how ice flows and moves (and how we measure it!), what goes into a field excursion to study ice (like in Antarctica or Greenland), and mushroom hunting!

]]> Fri, 11 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2613 Joining us today is Dr. David Lilien, a glaciologist studying glaciers and ice sheets and how ice moves. Learn about party ice - popping and fizzy glacier ice, how ice flows and moves (and how we measure it!), what goes into a field excursion to study ice (like in Antarctica or Greenland), and mushroom hunting!

]]> ice, glaciers, glaciology, climate change, Antarctica, mushroom No In the AI of the hurricane - with Dr. Chanh Kieu 1 1 13 13 In the AI of the hurricane - with Dr. Chanh Kieu full a16efd3e-aa67-4255-bfd4-3ebbab6c3e21 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b4d7dd82 Joining us today is Dr. Chanh Kieu, an atmospheric scientist using modeling and machine learning to understand weather phenomena, particularly hurricane intensity and prediction. Listen to learn more about all that goes into weather prediction (and be thoroughly impressed that we can do what we can in that field!), the role of AI (artificial intelligence) in improving weather predictability, how you can think of training a model as building with LEGO bricks, and his transition from growing up in Vietnam to moving to Maryland.

]]> Joining us today is Dr. Chanh Kieu, an atmospheric scientist using modeling and machine learning to understand weather phenomena, particularly hurricane intensity and prediction. Listen to learn more about all that goes into weather prediction (and be thoroughly impressed that we can do what we can in that field!), the role of AI (artificial intelligence) in improving weather predictability, how you can think of training a model as building with LEGO bricks, and his transition from growing up in Vietnam to moving to Maryland.

]]> Fri, 04 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2549 Joining us today is Dr. Chanh Kieu, an atmospheric scientist using modeling and machine learning to understand weather phenomena, particularly hurricane intensity and prediction. Listen to learn more about all that goes into weather prediction (and be thoroughly impressed that we can do what we can in that field!), the role of AI (artificial intelligence) in improving weather predictability, how you can think of training a model as building with LEGO bricks, and his transition from growing up in Vietnam to moving to Maryland.

]]> machine learning, AI, artificial intelligence, hurricane No I lava good volcano - with Dr. Elizabeth Kenderes 1 1 12 12 I lava good volcano - with Dr. Elizabeth Kenderes full 6036bcce-bdb0-456a-9e9f-eeb9ee6ea33a https://share.transistor.fm/s/a79c44ae On today's show we have Dr. Elizabeth Kenderes, an igneous petrologist interested in the stories that lavas and igneous rocks may tell about how or why a volcano erupted (or didn't!). Hear about some weird volcanoes that drew her into the field as a student, what makes a good gemstone for jewelry, underground mines and drilling blast holes, and fluid inclusions - literal pockets of fluid trapped in solid, crystallized rock!

]]> On today's show we have Dr. Elizabeth Kenderes, an igneous petrologist interested in the stories that lavas and igneous rocks may tell about how or why a volcano erupted (or didn't!). Hear about some weird volcanoes that drew her into the field as a student, what makes a good gemstone for jewelry, underground mines and drilling blast holes, and fluid inclusions - literal pockets of fluid trapped in solid, crystallized rock!

]]> Fri, 28 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2607 On today's show we have Dr. Elizabeth Kenderes, an igneous petrologist interested in the stories that lavas and igneous rocks may tell about how or why a volcano erupted (or didn't!). Hear about some weird volcanoes that drew her into the field as a student, what makes a good gemstone for jewelry, underground mines and drilling blast holes, and fluid inclusions - literal pockets of fluid trapped in solid, crystallized rock!

]]> volcano, rocks, eruption, gemstones, fluid inclusion, mining No I'm gonna make him a proxy he can't refuse - with Dr. Simon Brassell 1 1 11 11 I'm gonna make him a proxy he can't refuse - with Dr. Simon Brassell full 05ea748d-752d-4233-9d70-9b161edfcc09 https://share.transistor.fm/s/204cfd38 On the show today is Dr. Simon Brassell, a molecular biogeochemist who specializes in organic matter and isotope geochemistry. Hear about his revolutionary work that has earned him the nickname "the Godfather of alkenones", his experiences at sea (including finding out about 9/11 while on a research cruise), the current uncertainties with US-based research cruises moving forward, and his favorite British cuisines. 

]]> On the show today is Dr. Simon Brassell, a molecular biogeochemist who specializes in organic matter and isotope geochemistry. Hear about his revolutionary work that has earned him the nickname "the Godfather of alkenones", his experiences at sea (including finding out about 9/11 while on a research cruise), the current uncertainties with US-based research cruises moving forward, and his favorite British cuisines. 

]]> Fri, 21 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2649 On the show today is Dr. Simon Brassell, a molecular biogeochemist who specializes in organic matter and isotope geochemistry. Hear about his revolutionary work that has earned him the nickname "the Godfather of alkenones", his experiences at sea (including finding out about 9/11 while on a research cruise), the current uncertainties with US-based research cruises moving forward, and his favorite British cuisines. 

]]> geochemistry, organic geochemistry, alkenone, ocean, molecules No Head in the geoengineered clouds - with Dr. Paul Goddard 1 1 10 10 Head in the geoengineered clouds - with Dr. Paul Goddard full c8215de3-a752-4cc1-95de-ba8421f55a84 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6fa08f0c We are back for the second half of our first season! Joining us to kick things off is Dr. Paul Goddard, a climate scientist and modeler who looks at how Earth may react to CO2 emissions and how we may combat some of those changes. Hear about geoengineering, or large-scale attempts to counteract anthropogenic climate change, Cincinnati chili (a warm-spiced chili with things from cinnamon to chocolate - but so, so good!), and a new way to think about golf course design. You can find more about Paul's work at http://climateengineering.indiana.edu/.

]]> We are back for the second half of our first season! Joining us to kick things off is Dr. Paul Goddard, a climate scientist and modeler who looks at how Earth may react to CO2 emissions and how we may combat some of those changes. Hear about geoengineering, or large-scale attempts to counteract anthropogenic climate change, Cincinnati chili (a warm-spiced chili with things from cinnamon to chocolate - but so, so good!), and a new way to think about golf course design. You can find more about Paul's work at http://climateengineering.indiana.edu/.

]]> Fri, 14 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2677 We are back for the second half of our first season! Joining us to kick things off is Dr. Paul Goddard, a climate scientist and modeler who looks at how Earth may react to CO2 emissions and how we may combat some of those changes. Hear about geoengineering, or large-scale attempts to counteract anthropogenic climate change, Cincinnati chili (a warm-spiced chili with things from cinnamon to chocolate - but so, so good!), and a new way to think about golf course design. You can find more about Paul's work at http://climateengineering.indiana.edu/.

]]> climate science, geoengineering, modeling, atmospheric science, chili, golf No A river runs through it (and quickly aggrades) - with Dr. Brian Yanites 1 1 9 9 A river runs through it (and quickly aggrades) - with Dr. Brian Yanites full 2cc90f11-d076-474f-aa95-37c372031c0e https://share.transistor.fm/s/6067ba8c On our midseason finale we hear from Dr. Brian Yanites, a geomorphologist looking at how changes on Earth's surface can impact or are impacted by people, weather, animals, and even ore deposits. Learn a little bit about the history of topography, how the geosciences incorporates drones and lasers (and a time when the drones weren't very well received by some folks on the ground), and his time pre-geomorphology as a collegiate athlete playing football.

]]> On our midseason finale we hear from Dr. Brian Yanites, a geomorphologist looking at how changes on Earth's surface can impact or are impacted by people, weather, animals, and even ore deposits. Learn a little bit about the history of topography, how the geosciences incorporates drones and lasers (and a time when the drones weren't very well received by some folks on the ground), and his time pre-geomorphology as a collegiate athlete playing football.

]]> Fri, 27 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2257 On our midseason finale we hear from Dr. Brian Yanites, a geomorphologist looking at how changes on Earth's surface can impact or are impacted by people, weather, animals, and even ore deposits. Learn a little bit about the history of topography, how the geosciences incorporates drones and lasers (and a time when the drones weren't very well received by some folks on the ground), and his time pre-geomorphology as a collegiate athlete playing football.

]]> geomorphology, earth science, earth surface, drones, football No Here comes the rain again (get on the porch!) - with Dr. Cody Kirkpatrick 1 1 8 8 Here comes the rain again (get on the porch!) - with Dr. Cody Kirkpatrick full 5338f7a4-f9b9-427e-9ef4-e522a70d0f75 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1d2fd0ca Joining us today is Dr. Cody Kirkpatrick, a meteorologist who is interested in weather phenomena and related events. We hear about the Golden Guide that set his course, some aspects of storm chasing (and storm watching), and his passion and skill for sports analytics and prediction (apologies in advance to any Auburn fans that may listen). 

]]> Joining us today is Dr. Cody Kirkpatrick, a meteorologist who is interested in weather phenomena and related events. We hear about the Golden Guide that set his course, some aspects of storm chasing (and storm watching), and his passion and skill for sports analytics and prediction (apologies in advance to any Auburn fans that may listen). 

]]> Fri, 20 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2591 Joining us today is Dr. Cody Kirkpatrick, a meteorologist who is interested in weather phenomena and related events. We hear about the Golden Guide that set his course, some aspects of storm chasing (and storm watching), and his passion and skill for sports analytics and prediction (apologies in advance to any Auburn fans that may listen). 

]]> weather, storm chasing, thunderstorms, earth science No Insane in the big brain, insane in the brain - with Dr. Jackson Njau 1 1 7 7 Insane in the big brain, insane in the brain - with Dr. Jackson Njau full 02134e1b-ad56-4097-b1d9-8e63b44e205e https://share.transistor.fm/s/83d2edb8 Joining us today is Dr. Jackson Njau, a paleoanthropologist working to understand how early humans evolved and why. Hear about his work in Olduvai Gorge, a key anthropology site in Tanzania, how our brains have grown over time (as hard as that may be to believe sometimes), and a favorite dish of his - Ndizi.

]]> Joining us today is Dr. Jackson Njau, a paleoanthropologist working to understand how early humans evolved and why. Hear about his work in Olduvai Gorge, a key anthropology site in Tanzania, how our brains have grown over time (as hard as that may be to believe sometimes), and a favorite dish of his - Ndizi.

]]> Fri, 13 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2583 Joining us today is Dr. Jackson Njau, a paleoanthropologist working to understand how early humans evolved and why. Hear about his work in Olduvai Gorge, a key anthropology site in Tanzania, how our brains have grown over time (as hard as that may be to believe sometimes), and a favorite dish of his - Ndizi.

]]> anthropology, geology, earth sciences, neanderthals, Olduvai Gorge No Super(computer climate)model - with Dr. Travis O'Brien 1 1 6 6 Super(computer climate)model - with Dr. Travis O'Brien full 5edc363b-bf80-45f5-945e-c3fc428c5045 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0f58f2df Today we get to know Dr. Travis O'Brien, a climate scientist who looks at and models extreme weather and other climate phenomena that could impact our day-to-day lives. We get to hear about some of his more recent work, including using climate models, his time at a national lab and how that works, and a really interesting time living on an alpaca ranch.

]]> Today we get to know Dr. Travis O'Brien, a climate scientist who looks at and models extreme weather and other climate phenomena that could impact our day-to-day lives. We get to hear about some of his more recent work, including using climate models, his time at a national lab and how that works, and a really interesting time living on an alpaca ranch.

]]> Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2305 Today we get to know Dr. Travis O'Brien, a climate scientist who looks at and models extreme weather and other climate phenomena that could impact our day-to-day lives. We get to hear about some of his more recent work, including using climate models, his time at a national lab and how that works, and a really interesting time living on an alpaca ranch.

]]> climate change, extreme weather, modeling, atmospheric science No To be(er) or not to be(er) - with Dr. Ed Herrmann 1 1 5 5 To be(er) or not to be(er) - with Dr. Ed Herrmann full 8b3a292f-275c-47b8-9279-4cfc741bc8a1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0a484870 Joining us today is Dr. Ed Herrmann, a microbiologist by training who is a geoarchaeologist by way of the pharmaceutical industry and beer brewing. His geoarchaeology work draws on and builds from his experience and time in both of these seemingly unrelated fields that makes for a really exciting and unique perspective.

]]> Joining us today is Dr. Ed Herrmann, a microbiologist by training who is a geoarchaeologist by way of the pharmaceutical industry and beer brewing. His geoarchaeology work draws on and builds from his experience and time in both of these seemingly unrelated fields that makes for a really exciting and unique perspective.

]]> Fri, 29 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2911 Joining us today is Dr. Ed Herrmann, a microbiologist by training who is a geoarchaeologist by way of the pharmaceutical industry and beer brewing. His geoarchaeology work draws on and builds from his experience and time in both of these seemingly unrelated fields that makes for a really exciting and unique perspective.

]]> archaeology, beer, brewing, microbiology, earth sciences, anthropology No The Lab Rat Pack - with Dr. Julia Kelson 1 1 4 4 The Lab Rat Pack - with Dr. Julia Kelson full b31ad5a7-1ad6-4997-a25e-501675528284 https://share.transistor.fm/s/248c6a8e Listen in today and get to know Dr. Julia Kelson, a sedimentary geochemist looking at past Earth climates. Julia talks us through how she entered the field (you might say it runs in the family), some of her field experiences, and a bit about what work is like in the lab.

]]> Listen in today and get to know Dr. Julia Kelson, a sedimentary geochemist looking at past Earth climates. Julia talks us through how she entered the field (you might say it runs in the family), some of her field experiences, and a bit about what work is like in the lab.

]]> Fri, 22 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 1929 Listen in today and get to know Dr. Julia Kelson, a sedimentary geochemist looking at past Earth climates. Julia talks us through how she entered the field (you might say it runs in the family), some of her field experiences, and a bit about what work is like in the lab.

]]> geology, climate, earth science, geochemistry, sediment No From Russia with love (of rocks and hazards) - with Dr. Michael Hamburger 1 1 3 3 From Russia with love (of rocks and hazards) - with Dr. Michael Hamburger full f3f08b77-9bf1-4060-bb52-54e635b29caf https://share.transistor.fm/s/702b6666 Today Dr. Michael Hamburger, an earthquake seismologist and hazards specialist, joins us. We'll hear about his atypical journey into the geosciences, some incredible field experiences, and his time rubbing elbows with some of the Who's Whos of the climate world.

]]> Today Dr. Michael Hamburger, an earthquake seismologist and hazards specialist, joins us. We'll hear about his atypical journey into the geosciences, some incredible field experiences, and his time rubbing elbows with some of the Who's Whos of the climate world.

]]> Fri, 15 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2765 Today Dr. Michael Hamburger, an earthquake seismologist and hazards specialist, joins us. We'll hear about his atypical journey into the geosciences, some incredible field experiences, and his time rubbing elbows with some of the Who's Whos of the climate world.

]]> earthquake, hazards, geology, geosciences No Stuck between a rock and a sledge hammer - with Dr. Andrea Stevens Goddard 1 1 2 2 Stuck between a rock and a sledge hammer - with Dr. Andrea Stevens Goddard full 229515a7-9e73-4426-90c6-b1908b9ae959 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e46d34cc Today we get to chat with Dr. Andrea Stevens Goddard, a low-temperature thermochronologist (and proud Hoosier!) looking at how sediment is moved and stored in geologic basins.

]]> Today we get to chat with Dr. Andrea Stevens Goddard, a low-temperature thermochronologist (and proud Hoosier!) looking at how sediment is moved and stored in geologic basins.

]]> Fri, 08 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 2079 Today we get to chat with Dr. Andrea Stevens Goddard, a low-temperature thermochronologist (and proud Hoosier!) looking at how sediment is moved and stored in geologic basins.

]]> geology, earth science, thermochronology, sediment No Welcome to the show! 1 1 1 1 Welcome to the show! trailer 4b1e7528-e87d-4945-8b03-ecce2a375ffe https://share.transistor.fm/s/6f6cb348 Welcome to Earth on the Rocks with your host, me - Dr. Shelby Rader! On this episode, we dive in to what to expect for the rest of the season and hear a bit about how I ended up in the field.

]]> Welcome to Earth on the Rocks with your host, me - Dr. Shelby Rader! On this episode, we dive in to what to expect for the rest of the season and hear a bit about how I ended up in the field.

]]> Mon, 04 Nov 2024 11:17:46 -0500 Shelby Rader Shelby Rader 1882 Welcome to Earth on the Rocks with your host, me - Dr. Shelby Rader! On this episode, we dive in to what to expect for the rest of the season and hear a bit about how I ended up in the field.

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