Planet B612

Show Notes In this episode, Alix Sideris joins me to talk about art as a service, how spirituality plays a role in her life, and how she's responded to change with a global approach to art-sharing. (0:01:40) A massively hyphenated human: Acting, writing, directing, teaching, movement, intimacy direction and coordination. (0:02:42) A person of service: A purpose to uplift and expand. (0:04:10) What it is to be human: The ultimate exploration and investigation. (0:05:58) The Magnetic North Theatre Festival. (0:08:00) The newspaper interview. (0:10:08) Growing up in a Greek household and a love of learning and research. (0:12:10) Moving away from medical studies: The path towards becoming an artist.  (0:14:35) Working with disenfranchised and special needs youth: Teaching and acting. (0:17:01) The National Arts Centre and dealing with fear. (0:18:26) Success and failure: Changing the script. (0:20:37) Imposter Syndrome: Branding yourself. (0:23:10) Being thrust into environments: Throwing darts. (0:26:12) Spirituality, empathy and the pandemic. (0:28:56) Remote meditations and connections. (0:31:17) The transformation of the arts during the pandemic: Recognizing and responding to the changes. (0:35:54) Opening up the world: A chance for a global artistic community. (0:37:15) The exodus from the arts during the pandemic and thinking nationally. (0:39:50) How a health crisis affects you: Finding joy. (0:43:04) The youth of today and the arts. (0:44:51) Teaching in Toronto: The conversations and learning the language. (0:49:50) Co-existing when we remove the binary: The show in New York.  (0:54:33) Putting the spotlight on harm: The importance of intersectionality. (0:56:20) The intimacy workshop: The connection and beauty. (1:01:23) To find out more: AlixSideris.com Visit Alix's website: https://www.alixsideris.com/ Alix's meditation series: https://www.alixsideris.com/meditation Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

Show Notes**** In this episode, we talk about the realities, and challenges faced by today's University students, and professors. Are professors paid enough? Are there too many students today? How can education improve? Dr. Elaine Beaulieu joins me to explore these topics, and share her experience, and opinions, on the topic! (0:01:02) Beyond the Test Tube, research and the Faculty of Science. (0:01:37) Switching to innovation in education: The why and the how. (0:04:04) Working as a researcher: The PhD and PostDoc. (0:06:55) Science lecturers vs Tenured professors in academia. (0:08:30) Tenure: Why it is still the goal.  (0:10:48) The hierarchy of academia and adjunct professors in science.  (0:13:35) Being a professor: Is it a good choice for a career? (0:15:45) Post-Secondary education funding in Ontario and PhDs in science. (0:17:59) Canada: Not enough funding for science and education. (0:19:34) Job stability and contracts. (0:22:18) PhDs and PostDocs in other countries vs Canada. (0:25:08) Professorship: A vocation. (0:28:53) Studying science and the challenges for students today. (0:31:10) We are all different: The need for flexibility and micro credentials. (0:34:15) Preparing the students: A need for a new design. (0:37:47) Finding the right balance: Applying what is learned. (0:39:55) The peripheral needs: A necessity in the workplace.  (0:42:15) Universities vs Colleges. (0:43:55) Developing new programs for a new world: Turning the machine around. (0:46:55) Teaching online: A mixed experience for students. (0:49:11) Being tough and knowing when to back off. (0:50:35) Coddling and its aftereffects. (0:51:23) Designing policy to be flexible: The muffin comparison. (0:53:13) Being partners in education. (0:56:28) Readiness for work: Not all on the university. (0:58:15) Universities: The need to move away from being the gatekeeper. (1:00:03) Security issues and new ideas. (1:02:30) The public perception of universities and the importance of outreach. (1:05:19) Public lectures and gatherings: How do you market it? (1:07:51) Science communication: The importance of presentation. (1:10:01) Debunking pseudoscience, social media and animation. (1:11:20) Elitism in science and science communication. (1:13:33) Building trust with the community. (1:15:15) When logic goes out the window: Researching falsities.  (1:17:15) Analyzing what's real. (1:18:20) Communicating to teach: Entertain me.  Follow Dr. Beaulieu on Twitter: https://twitter.com/elainebeaulieu2 Beyond the Test Tube podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-test-tube-a-science-podcast/id1544148414 Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

Show Notes Tania is a public servant who's also a working artist. In this episode, we talk about what it's like to be an artist with a job. We also deep dive into design strategy, including design thinking, user research, and service design. (0:02:28) Artists in the office: The challenges and value. (0:03:50) Receiving flak: The art world vs the corporate world. (0:05:42) Finding time for art: Using your leave and dispelling the myths. (0:07:58) Modifying work hours in the public sector. (0:10:20) The demise of the 'Working class artist': The risks of a lack of diversity. (0:14:21) Plays about public service and how working within affects the art.  (0:18:14) Working inside a framework: How it benefits creativity. (0:19:56) Being bilingual in Ottawa and the journey to public service.  (0:22:14) What a contact center does and the concept of service. (0:24:07) Design Thinking: Improving service and user experience. (0:26:45) Change Management and Design Thinking's link to theater training. (0:29:00) Transferable skills: How they can be beneficial on both sides. (0:30:59) MIT lectures and marketing mishaps: Why the end user is essential. (0:33:42) Convincing people that end users matter: User research and feedback. (0:37:30) Evidence based decision making and empathy. (0:38:08) A captive audience: Believing people want to do better. (0:41:17) Agile methodologies and development in the public sector. (0:42:43) Service design: What it is and why it is important. (0:44:57) AI, Machine Learning and Omnichannel Service Delivery. (0:47:31) Acronyms, buzzwords and the move to Plain Language use. (0:50:01) Plain Language: The benefits of making sure everyone understands. (0:52:41) Gaming: Faster thinking and strengthening focus. (0:55:08) Fortnite, MMO games and griefers. (0:56:40) Keeping up with the kids and esports. Follow Tania on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tanialevy Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

Show Notes In this episode, we talk all about predators of North America! What's the best way to manage predators in a world where humans encroach more and more into their territory? What's the best way to deter them? Petros Chrysafis joins me to talk about this fascinating topic! (0:00:30) Central Valley and living in California.  (0:01:38) Wildlife in California and North American animals. (0:02:52) Marine Biology and Zoology: The journey to a career. (0:05:50) Social vs solitary predators. (0:07:02) Lynx and bears. (0:08:22) Grizzlies and Elk: California's wetlands of the past. (0:10:09) Wild pigs in California: Feral pigs and wild boar. (0:12:35) Culling pigs in California: Pig tags and permits. (0:13:47) The pig problem: No specialized predators in North America. (0:15:03) Eating wild boar and pigs. (0:17:02) Why work as an independent Predator Specialist? (0:19:30) Working with ranches: Trust and science. (0:21:41) Guardian dogs: Costly but effective. (0:22:38) Emus, llamas and alpacas: A good canine deterrent. (0:24:00) Livestock predation: Factors and methods. (0:25:12) How the process works. (0:28:40) Coyotes: Should homeowners be worried? And what to do. (0:30:49) Electric deterrents: Almost foolproof. (0:32:59) Our fear of predators and how to manage it.  (0:35:47) Wanting our woods to be wild. (0:38:15) Our selective memory. (0:39:56) Brown and Black bears vs Grizzly and Polar bears. (0:42:19) DnD and role playing games. (0:43:49) The many avenues of DnD: School programs and prisons. (0:45:43) DnD: A wide spectrum of gaming and imagination (0:47:20) DnD: Dealing with death and expanding the creative process. Visit Predator Deterrence: https://www.predatordeterrence.org/ Follow Petros on Twitter: https://twitter.com/pchrysafis Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

In this episode, we talk about how we know the climate is changing, as well as how and why we study past climates.We also explore things like mass extinction events, isotopes, and science communication. (0:01:06) So many specialities. (0:01:51) Turonian Global sea levels: Was there ice?  (0:03:45) Geochemical proxies: Helping reconstruct climate. (0:04:49) Milankovitch cycles and our wobbly Earth. (0:05:56) Our dependence on the other planets: A synergy that keeps us alive. (0:07:26) Mars: A butterfly effect. (0:08:23) Predictions and the climate archives. (0:09:05) Global warming today: Undoubtedly caused by humans. (0:10:50) The climate archives: Ice cores, gas bubbles and pollen records. (0:12:45) Energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence: How it helps us learn. (0:13:43) Radioactive isotopes vs stable isotopes. (0:14:30) Isotopes: What are they and what are we looking for? (0:16:41) How isotopes show climate changes in the past: The ice record and corals. (0:18:04) Field trips and the Niagara Escarpment fossils. (0:21:11) Focusing on global warming: Studying the rock record. (0:22:15) Carbon isotopes and what they tell us. (0:26:03) The effects of depleted carbon: A unique signature. (0:27:11) What does this mean for the atmosphere and the Earth itself? (0:31:19) The wobbly Moon and tidal sea level rise. (0:32:43) Science communication: Should it be a requirement? (0:34:41) Communicating in science: The importance of understanding the Why. (0:37:38) Moving to alternate fuel sources: Will it make a difference? (0:41:11) Climate cycles and C02: How the Arctic cooled. (0:42:38) Plankton, trapped carbon and bacteria: Cycles of oxygen levels. (0:44:31) Mass extinction events: Why we need to care because the Earth doesn't.  (0:46:36) Educating the public about climate change: One of many passions. (0:48:04) Working in forensics: A possible branching out. (0:49:31) Film criticism, stories and other interests. (0:50:46) Indiana Jones and Archeology in film: An untapped potential. (0:51:44) The artistic mindset: How art can make you think differently. (0:53:45) Classical art and appreciating the detail.  Follow Nic on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nic_Randazzo Visit Nic's website: https://www.nicolasrandazzo.com/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

What role might the environment play on autoimmune diseases, like asthma? What could we learn about antibiotic use in pregnant women? Reproductive immunologist, and researcher, Dr. Melanie Conrad joins me to talk about these topics, and about the work she, and her team, are doing to uncover new information about how the immune system works! (0:00:45) Moving to Germany and accents. (0:02:42) Research and the study of asthma. (0:04:07) The journey to studying asthma. (0:06:22) Environmental causes of asthma and the role of traditional farms. (0:08:00) Generational studies and the Dutch Hunger Winter. (0:09:35) Why growing up on a farm can help your respiratory health. (0:11:35) The mouse model. (0:12:38) Mechanisms, contributing factors and the immune response. (0:14:08) The chronological study of the fetus, newborns and breast milk. (0:16:06) Moving from mouse to human: The ethics and physiology involved. (0:17:47) Fruit flies studies and why they are important. (0:19:02) Farm analysis and the chosen bacteria. (0:20:34) Urban environments and pollution: Getting back to nature. (0:22:36) The Protection Model and the Antibiotic Model. (0:24:30) Antibiotics: Not always the best solution. (0:25:31) Microbiome Analysis and the Antibiotic Model. (0:26:30) The importance of fetal development of microbiomes: Where they come from. (0:29:05) Pre and postnatal development of microbiomes and antibiotics. (0:30:55) Targeted antibiotics: Is it a possibility in the future? (0:32:00) Bonnie Bassler and Quorum sensing. (0:33:39) Antibiotics, Hives and Mites: A need for new research and advances. (0:35:09) Five more questions. (0:37:03) When does science become medicine? Research and medicine. (0:39:05) Open access and publishing. (0:40:17) Science and policy: The need for a middle person. (0:41:43) Science communication and Twitter. (0:43:31) What's next? Models, models models and metabolism.  (0:45:35) PhD students. (0:46:15) Partner Acrobatics: A great hobby. (0:47:58) The cultural differences between Canada and Germany. (0:50:02) Being a scientist in Germany. (0:51:39) Berlin: Still loving it after over 10 years. Visit the Conrad Lab: https://www.conradlab.net/ Follow Melanie on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MLConradLab Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

How did Tardigrades evolve? Where can we find them? Are there Tardigrades in Space? All this, and more, with Biologist Dr. Frank Smith! (0:00:55) Tardigrades in concrete. (0:01:35) Finding tardigrades: Moss, leaf litter and lichens. (0:02:50) Marine tardigrades: The contraption and process for collection. (0:05:54) Cryptobiosis and marine tardigrades. (0:06:53) The study of land tardigrades vs marine tardigrades. (0:08:16) Studying the diversity of tardigrades: The tardigrade meeting. (0:09:16) Tardigrades in concrete: A lack of literature and study. (0:09:55) Reinhart Christensen: Echiniscus Bigranualatist. (0:12:01) Solving mysteries that pre-date the fossil record. (0:13:33) Tardigrade fossils. (0:16:11) Evolution of tardigrades: A big discovery. (0:20:13) Arthropods vs Tardigrades: Does the trunk make a difference? (0:21:53) Tardigrade's hind legs: Do they serve a purpose? (0:24:25) Tardigrades: An entire diverse phylum. (0:25:21) Do all tardigrades have eight legs and why did they develop this way? (0:29:39) Losing the ability to evolve: Is that why tardigrades are so tough? (0:32:06) Tardigrades vs Rotifers: Comparative studies. (0:32:55) Simplicity can be better: Losing body parts in evolution. (0:34:40) Tardigrade guts and how they work and eat. (0:37:52) The evolution of a tardigrade's guts: Comparisons to other animals. (0:41:40) Mapping the tardigrade genome. (0:43:24) Editing the genomes in tardigrades: Is it possible? (0:45:09) Tardigrades in space. (0:47:34) Tardigrades on the moon: The experiment. (0:48:33) A new puppy, dog parks and the DNA test. (0:50:11) NBA playoffs, basketball and music. (0:51:20) The similarities between artists and scientists. (0:54:45) Tardigrade society meetings. Visit the Smith Lab: https://franksmith.domains.unf.edu/ How to find Marine Tardigrades: https://tardigradehunters.weebly.com/marine-tardigrades.html Check out Creature Cast: http://creaturecast.org/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld In this episode, we'll learn all about spiders, specifically jumping spiders, and wolf spiders, with Arachnologist, Trinity Walls! (0:01:09) Loving and studying spiders: The journey. (0:02:51) Wolf spiders and their shining eyes.  (0:04:43) Spider hairs: How spiders sense prey and predators. (0:05:41) Wolf spiders vs Jumping spiders: The key differences.  (0:07:40) The eyes of a jumping spider. (0:08:48) Are jumping spiders venomous? (0:10:00) The diet of a jumping spider. (0:10:57) Spider cannibalism.  (0:11:57) Female spiders: Larger and longer lived. (0:13:21) Mating choice in jumping spiders: An interesting field of study. (0:17:25) Different colours in female spiders: An unsolved mystery.  (0:20:02) Jumping spider's jumps: The how and the why.  (0:21:51) The mating dance of male spiders. (0:22:47) Peacock spiders and Paradise spiders. (0:24:57) Do spiders dream? (0:25:35) The cognitive abilities of spiders. (0:27:09) Spider silk. (0:28:14) Wolf spiders and other uses for silk. (0:29:11) The effect of water on spider silk and webs. (0:30:41) Behavioural ecology and spiders. (0:31:47) Spiders and the winter season. (0:33:42) Climate change and its effect on spiders. (0:36:31) Arachnophobia: Why are spiders seen as the villians?  (0:40:45) How to properly relocate a spider. (0:41:23) Spider bites: The myths vs reality. (0:43:32) Dealing with spider webs in the home. (0:45:30) Science communication and outreach. (0:47:30) Girls and the study of spiders. (0:49:20) Dance and the Bachata. (0:52:04) Getting out of your head with dance. (0:53:19) The PhD defense and what's coming next. Follow Trinity on Twitter: https://twitter.com/trinitywalls9 Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

Dr. Gerold Baier joins me from the UK to discuss machine learning, and his research into algorithmic approaches in disease. He's been researching rhythms and patterns in epilepsy with the hope that one day, we can predict seizures before they happen! (0:00:55) Biochemistry and decoding the rhythms of the human brain. (0:02:13) The MEG and the study of epilepsy. (0:03:45) Using rhythm and audio recordings. (0:05:10) Epilepsy and the rhythms of seizures. (0:06:07) The goals: Being able to stop a seizure. (0:07:36) Implantation and the future.  (0:08:36) Surgery vs the needle: Lessening the destruction of brain tissue. (0:10:04) The current solution: Cutting and burning the tissue. (0:11:13) Machine learning and data science. (0:11:58) What is machine learning? (0:14:22) Isolating the rhythms. (0:15:03) What causes a seizure? (0:16:10) Where we are now with research: Identifying and classifying. (0:18:03) The upcoming study in Beijing. (0:19:20) The current scientific approach: A new approach is needed. (0:21:09) Algorithms: The mathematical vs the physiological. (0:21:53) Brain computer interfaces. (0:23:10) Are there any limits to understanding the human brain? (0:24:05) The auditory background in your brain. (0:27:13) Psychedelics and the brain. (0:30:31) Meditation, the brain and your inner self. (0:31:49) Creativity and the collaboration of networks. (0:33:38) Why use Python in machine learning? (0:35:20) Where Python is used: Teaching and research. (0:36:11) Python: Not the only language used. (0:37:10) The future and artificial intelligence: A good idea? (0:39:36) Seeing the danger and vulnerability. (0:42:03) Decoding the diseases: How close are we? (0:43:50) The consuming process of data points. (0:45:06) Studying nature.  (0:46:17) Mexico and settling in the United Kingdom. (0:47:40) Other collaborations: Working with the Children's Hospital. (0:49:01) Teaching in China. Dr. Baier's bio at UCL: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/biosciences/people/gerold-baier Follow Dr. Baier on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GeroldBaier Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I talk with plant pathologist, and TikTok scicommer, Sara Stricker about plant fungus, science communication, and agriculture. (0:01:19) The Plant Doctor and the PhD defense. (0:02:20) The PhD process. (0:03:57) Nerves, anxiety and a new job. (0:05:42) Why TikTok? (0:09:01) Vulnerability and coping with personal disclosures. (0:10:45) The importance of visibility and being a role model. (0:12:10) Who is your audience? (0:13:20) Teaching and the journey to grad school. (0:15:23) Advice for scientists joining TikTok. (0:17:29) Making partnerships. (0:18:50) Research into fungus and onion growth. (0:20:24) Weather patterns and fungal spores. (0:21:02) Chemical sprays and bacterial resistance. (0:23:44) Why study this fungus? Microdochium nivale and mineral oil. (0:25:20) The Muck Crops Research Station, The Growers Association and OMAFRA. (0:27:42) The areas and origins of the fungus. (0:28:21) Asparagus and Pears: Fungal spots. (0:30:09) What can farmers do to combat this fungus? (0:30:55) Intercropping vs Monocropping and disease. (0:32:12) Crop rotation and beneficial bacteria. (0:34:32) The micronetwork of fungi and how trees communicate. (0:37:20) The grass is screaming. (0:38:20) The Guelph Turfgrass Institute, lawns and helping the pollinators. (0:40:48) International grasslands and the role of ecosystems. (0:43:18) Vaccines and embracing the boring in science. (0:46:46) Dealing with repetition: How to combat boredom. (0:48:00) MineCraft, Animal Crossing and video games. (0:49:16) Twitch. (0:50:19) Killing plants and gardening. (0:51:29) Woodworking and wood burning. (0:53:11) Learning from Dad and small town living. (0:54:52) What's next? Teaching, outreach and family. Follow Sara on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sciencesara Follow Guelph Turf on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@guelphturf Follow Sara on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SaraMStricker Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, we'll be exploring the world of parasitic copepods! We'll also talk about Jimmy's decision to be infected with 50 hookworms in the name of science! (0:00:49) Working at the Natural History Museum: Parasitic Copepods.  (0:02:24) How do you tell if a copepod is parasitic? (0:04:28) What parasitic copepods live on. (0:05:34) Once a host is infected, is it still edible? (0:06:50) How to find a parasitic copepod on a specimen.  (0:07:39) Rock bass and the parasites that live on them: Trematodes. (0:09:55) White spots on fish. (0:10:26) Parasitic copepods in the ocean. (0:11:44) Copepods and parasitic copepods on corals. (0:13:48) Studying parasitic copepods: Where all the data comes from. (0:15:19) The coolest copepods: Marine invertebrates and sea squirts.  (0:18:01) Notodelphyidae and the search for photos. (0:19:58) The World Association of Copepodologists. (0:21:54) Parasitic copepods and climate change. (0:23:31) Evolving parasites: The generalist and the specialist. (0:24:56) The early life cycle of a parasitic copepod. (0:27:01) The mating process of parasitic copepods. (0:28:38) The journey to studying parasitic copepods: Dr.Janine Caira and tapeworms. (0:31:23) The captivating process and longevity of sample preparation. (0:33:32) The study of parasites and how it changes how we see the world. (0:36:25) The dramatic and diverse microscopic world. (0:39:59) Planarians. (0:42:52) Jumping to the study of copepods: A fascination about evolution. (0:46:00) The problems with parasitic nematodes and our health. (0:48:06) Developing a vaccine for hookworms: A challenge study. (0:49:31) Being infected with 50 hookworms. (0:52:00) Hookworm secretions and seasonal allergies. (0:53:59) Weightlifting, volleyball and a love of reading. (0:54:57) The Left Hand of Darkness: Ahead of its time. Visit Jimmy's website: https://jimmybernot.com/ Follow Jimmy on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jimmybernot?lang=en Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

Ever wonder how, and why, we research microscopic life in our oceans? In this episode, I speak with plankton ecologist, and head of the Continuous Plankton Recorder Survey about marine life, research, and more! (0:00:26) Plymouth, England. (0:02:07) Publication and reputation over a PhD in the UK. (0:04:56) What are plankton? Phyto and Zoo. (0:06:27) Zooplankton: Starting small. (0:08:35) Microscopic crustaceans: It's all relative.  (0:09:23) Copepods: A keystone species. (0:10:30) Key species: Playing a pivotal role. (0:11:54) Phytoplankton: Diatoms and Dinoflagellates. (0:13:29) Changing seasons and how it affects populations. (0:15:44) Marine Tardigrades. (0:17:02) What is the best way to sample marine plankton communities? (0:18:00) Microscopic Jellyfish and CPR Samples. (0:19:00) Why study the microscopic? The canary in the coal mine. (0:20:56) Moving North: The changing latitudes of plankton populations. (0:21:30) Calanus Finmarchicus and Calanus Helgolandicus. (0:23:16) The Global Association of CPR Surveys. (0:25:30) The origin of the Continuous Plankton Recorder Survey. (0:27:21) Plankton and changing water colours. (0:29:25) Red tides, toxic blooms and the Environmental Agency. (0:32:39) Ships of opportunity: How the CPR runs. (0:35:45) The CPR design. (0:36:40) Holographic 3D imaging and upcoming changes. (0:37:34) Data collection: Getting more accurate positioning in the future. (0:38:45) How far down does the CPR go? (0:39:44) Testing the plankton of the deep. (0:40:48) Long term trends and changes: What the data is used for. (0:42:56) CPR: High success, low errors.  (0:44:32) Surprising results and the diatoms of the NorthWest Atlantic.  (0:48:01) CPR: Free and available for everyone. (0:49:09) The CPR Survey and scientific research in the UK. (0:52:08) Hobbies and interests: Natural History and the outdoors. (0:53:04) If you could go anywhere, when and where would you go? (0:53:49) Observing the natural world around us. Visit the Continuous Plankton Recorder Survey: https://www.cprsurvey.org/ Follow David on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DavidGJOHNS1   Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, designer and gemologist Kate Hubley joins me to help me understand the difference between various kinds of gold, which gemstones are more valuable, how they're mined, and which gems are more rare than others. (0:00:52) Beginning a career in gemology and jewellery: So much to learn. (0:02:32) The certification process. (0:03:10) Gems and organic gems. (0:04:06) Canadian Ivory and Amber. (0:05:37) All about the colour. (0:06:46) Where to find gemstones. (0:08:28) How and where to purchase gemstones. (0:10:26) The security involved. (0:11:15) Spotting a fake: The heft test and spectroscopes. (0:13:53) Who do you trust? Knowing how to find a professional. (0:15:01) Lab grown diamonds: How to tell.  (0:16:41) The ethics of diamonds and smuggling. (0:17:55) The gem industries and opportunities for communities.  (0:20:32) Afghanistan emeralds.  (0:21:55) The Argyle mine and pink diamonds. (0:23:02) New gems and Eudialyte. (0:25:15) White gold: Nickel vs Palladium. (0:26:53) Gold and Karats. (0:28:04) Alloys and the recipes for different types of gold. (0:30:18) Valuing gems: Topaz, Rubies and Sapphires. (0:32:31) Emeralds: All about the origin.  (0:34:07) Pearls. (0:35:47) Slave ships and oysters. (0:37:19) Canadian Pearls. (0:39:27) Kate's design process: Celebration and fearlessness. (0:40:25) The Pendulum story. (0:42:19) Time and what we do with it. (0:43:47) Expanding The Precious Time Collection. (0:47:08) From a hobby to a business: The change in mindset. (0:48:30) Business: Being responsible for all the parts. (0:49:10) Getting it out there. (0:50:12) Custom work. (0:51:27) Working in the jewellery industry in Canada. (0:54:02) The currency exchange and sales from the United States. Visit K8 Jewelry: https://k8jewelry.com/ Follow K8 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k8jewelry/ Follow K8 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/K8Jewelry/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

Toronto-based artist Genevieve Langlois joins me to talk about her work as an actress and a painter. We also talk about voice acting and voice-over work, and we talk about imposter syndrome, aging and more! (0:01:37) An artistic family and education. (0:02:47) Moving to Toronto.  (0:03:37) Montreal and Toronto: Family and freedom. (0:05:28) The commercialization of art in Toronto: Past vs present. (0:06:48) The next steps: Trusting inner guidance.  (0:08:15) Slowing down and the pandemic. (0:10:15) Death and dignity.  (0:11:54) Yearning and new transitions. (0:12:39) Embracing the beauty in aging: Coping in different ways. (0:14:30) The industry and aging. (0:16:47) Weight and the pandemic. (0:18:09) Voiceover work and agism. (0:21:00) Accepting playing old and plastic surgery in the industry. (0:24:03) Tips for voiceover work. (0:25:29) Making demos: Fake it 'til you make it. (0:28:10) Filling your soul: Comedy and clowns. (0:29:15) Theater vs Television and Film. (0:30:01) Creating visual art during the pandemic. (0:31:28) Theater after the pandemic. (0:32:31) Future skits about aging women in their fifties. (0:34:21) A day in the life of Genevieve. (0:36:51) Sketching and painting: Dancing women and horses. (0:40:25) Imposter Syndrome. (0:41:05) Learning the art of art without the typical path. (0:43:04) Future work: Movement and women. (0:43:41) Succeeding financially in art: Finding the love. (0:45:58) The New York model. (0:47:02) The Toronto Art Fair and connecting with the people. (0:48:05) The graphic novel. (0:48:49) The whispers and next projects. (0:50:49) Aging women working together to work. (0:51:43) The beige period. (0:53:43) Some quick questions: Travel, books and music. (0:55:48) Leaving Toronto: What's next? Visit Genevieve's website: http://genevievelanglois.com/en/ Visit Genevieve's painting website: http://genevievelangloispeintre.com/ Follow Genevieve on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gen_langlois_/?hl=en Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

PhD Student Olivier Belli joins me from Switzerland to talk about genetics and gene editing. We talk about the human genome, epigenetics, and CRISPR technology! (0:00:35) A little background.  (0:01:32) What is Molecular Biology? (0:02:20) Gene editing and the academic path.  (0:03:30) The Human Genome: Where we are.  (0:04:33) The Human Genome: What is it? (0:05:36) Epigenetics. (0:08:10) Genetics: A young field. (0:09:00) Classical genetics of the past vs the present approach. (0:10:23) 23 and me: Genetics and our environment. (0:13:11) The evolution of essential genes and their effects. (0:14:59) Sickle cell disease and genetics. (0:19:20) Correcting a mutation: Hemoglobin and genetics. (0:20:30) What is CRISPR? (0:23:17) CRISPR: Not a scary thing, just an easier one. (0:25:05) The side effects of genetic modification: A work in progress.  (0:26:00) Genetic Modification: A centuries old practice in agriculture. (0:28:16) Cloning.  (0:29:20) CRISPR and DNA breaks. (0:31:46) Technology development in CRISPR: The study of disease mechanisms.  (0:33:43) The study and work with the SARS-CoV-2 Virus. (0:34:35) How viruses can infect and hijack our cells. (0:36:35) The next five years: What's coming next? (0:38:50) Ethical boundaries: Where do you draw the line? (0:40:00) Embryo editing and eugenics: A Pandora's box. (0:41:20) Science communication: Why it's so important. (0:44:10) Politicizing science: Taking a stand in the public debate. (0:45:30) Academics vs non-academics: The disconnect and how to solve it.  (0:48:06) Music, Monoatomic God and playing the bass.  (0:49:36) Science fiction and CRISPR. (0:50:57) Alien DNA. (0:52:13) Biology: Still so much to discover. (0:53:32) Future plans. Follow Olivier on Twitter: https://twitter.com/olivier_belli Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with John Launius. He's written a book about the life and work of Charles Parsons. We speak about the reasons why John wrote this book, but he also gives us a bit of a history primer on why the civil war occurred, and what life was like at the time. In order to understand the future, we must understand the past, and this episode aims to shed light on a brutal part of America's past, while also celebrating the people that fought for diversity, the arts, and freedom. (0:01:04) A bit of background.  (0:02:07) The career path: Being a media executive and brands. (0:04:35) The Civil War: How did it begin? (0:05:55) The economy of slave labour.  (0:07:35) States rights vs Federal Government: Solving the question of who is in charge.  (0:08:20) The importance of studying the Civil War. (0:09:55) The symbolism of the Confederate flag. (0:12:18) The Battle of Fort Sumter: War breaks out on the East Coast. (0:13:45) General William T. Sherman and California. (0:15:00) Railroads: The differences between North and South. (0:16:15) What do people really know about the Civil War? (0:17:27) The Civil War in film. (0:19:13) The weapons and brutality of the Civil War. (0:23:00) The Cherokee Nation and indigenous involvement. (0:25:50) The atrocities during the unification of the railroads. (0:27:33) Could the brutality of the Civil War occur today? (0:29:33) 1861-1865 vs the Present: The conversation today. (0:31:38) Why and how the Civil War ended. (0:34:20) The Life and Times of Missouri's Charles Parsons: Between Art and War.  (0:35:10) The study of incense. (0:36:52) Charles Parsons: An influential individual. (0:38:30) The Tokugawa Incense burner and the Charles Parsons art collection. (0:40:50) Charles Parsons: Using success for the common good. (0:41:48) Charles Parsons and artist Harriet Hosmer. (0:43:40) Notes of travel in 1894 and 1895. (0:45:43) Charles Parsons and the Wide Awakes.  (0:47:15) Lewis B. Parsons and the Union cause: Revamping the way business is done. (0:49:34) Martha Parsons: A bit of a mystery still. (0:51:30) Archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann and a clue in the letters. (0:53:30) What's next? Audiobooks and Love and Letters in WWII. (0:55:21) A poem by Charles Parsons. John Launius on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-launius-ab54a285/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.launius.906 On Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/john_launius/ On Instagram (Book): https://www.instagram.com/parsons_book/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with the founder of Commie’s Cupcakes, Amber Comadira-Smith. Amber is a cake designer, and we talk about the best way to bake cakes, how to use fondant, and why she enjoys working with miniature designs! (0:00:40) Queensland, Australia: the sunshine state  (0:02:00) Amber Comadira-Smith: the cake artist and designer (0:02:40) Helping people move from cake decorator to cake designer/artist  (0:03:05) Commie's Cupcakes (0:04:35) Leaving graphic design (0:08:15) The low point and finding a new creative outlet (0:10:10) The honeymoon period vs the business  (0:11:35) Inspiring creativity in others through cake (0:14:35) Baking is a science: follow the recipe! (0:16:43) Give your oven a hip check! How to know when your cake is ready. (0:19:20) Do different cake types make a difference?  (0:20:45) The easiest icing: American Buttercream  (0:21:44) The American Buttercream recipe  (0:22:40) Cream Cheese frosting  (0:23:40) Recommendations for piping bags    (0:25:27) The common mistakes  (0:28:22) Piping: A good starting point  (0:29:50) Why choose fondant? Taming the beast. (0:35:20) Sculpting miniature foods (0:39:41) Sculpture outside of food (0:42:10) Managing a creative businesses  (0:44:45) Learning to market yourself: a difficult transition  (0:46:15) Going all in: social media  (0:53:58) The future of Commie’s Cupcakes  Visit Commie’s Cupcakes: https://www.commiescupcakes.com/ Follow Amber on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/commies.cupcakes/ Follow Amber on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CommiesCupcakes/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

** Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld** In this episode, I speak with Arch DevOps CTO, Michael Fritzius. We talk about software testing automation, the purpose of documentation, why tech companies use DevOps, and we also talk about the quirky work environments we’ve worked in in the tech industry! (0:00:45) Who is Fritz? Arch DevOps  (0:01:30) Starting the business - The entrepreneurial path (0:03:10) Software Quality Assurance  (0:04:10) Why automate? (0:06:20) Is automation replacing the creative component of testing? Are companies missing the point? (0:08:10) The dark art of testing (0:08:50) A good tester is a communicative tester (0:09:35) QA Advocacy - Does it reach the right people? And how can you make it? (0:11:07) Going over their heads - Building rapport to stop the fear  (0:12:15) What should never be automated? Making the right decisions (0:13:30) 100% coverage - The warm fuzzy problem (0:15:40) Exploratory testing (0:18:04) The "I told you so" moment - How to manage it positively (0:19:45) The different flavours of fear - We are not the enemy (0:22:00) Playful environments - Building rapport through casual competence and comradery (0:25:00) Tech culture (0:26:00) Silicon Valley - perks, games and nerf guns (0:28:25) The weirdness of building rapport in tech (0:29:20) The different subcultures in tech  (0:32:30) Tech creatives  (0:33:30) Are the developers trying to take over? (0:34:50) DevOps - The mindset and the challenges  (0:38:25) Evaluations - Dev vs QA  (0:39:05) Developers- Where the bugs come from  (0:40:00) Logging bugs - Details, details, details (0:41:30) Documentation - Do they see the value? (0:43:30) The two roles of documentation - The where and the who (0:45:35) Cutting down on time with documentation (0:46:30) US vs Canada - The differences in technology and culture (0:47:30) "At least in Texas they stab you in the front" The three tech cultures (0:49:00) Working in a non-tech focused city - Finding the tech in non-tech  (0:50:48) The Canadian tech culture (0:51:10) Action driven culture - moving too quick (0:52:25) Directness, dreaming and finding the balance (0:53:50) Isn't tech just tech? (0:54:15) Automation - The fear of a new Depression (0:55:40) Changes - How we all move forward during automation Visit Arch DevOps: https://archdevops.com/ Follow Fritz on Twitter: https://twitter.com/archdevops Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

In this episode, I interview Canadian musician and DJ, Rise Ashen. Based in Ottawa, Rise is a 3-time Juno award nominee who has studied music in NYC, Montreal, and who has explored the various sounds and influences of music around the world. We talk about the arts in Canada, the influence of American music, and why online promotion and streaming isn’t necessarily a good model for today’s music artists. (0:01:00) The many facets of Rise Ashen (0:01:35) Growing up in Montreal (0:01:50) Why you should watch the Youtube link before listening any further! (0:02:10) Surviving as an artist in Canada  (0:02:50) Who has shaped your career?  (0:04:00) Figuring out the code  (0:05:15) Actualizing your childhood dreams  (0:07:10) When the magic shifts (0:08:00) Rise Ashen's genre of music - the ancient and the futuristic (0:11:00) The origins of hip hop and its influence on us (0:11:30) First trip to New York (0:12:15) Scratching the surface of the history of dance culture in New York (0:13:00) Why did you never move to New York? (0:14:45) Times are changing  (0:15:35) The New York Art Scene - making it and the star system (0:18:39) The star system in Montreal, Quebec  (0:19:30) The Arts in Canada - the differing arts communities  (0:22:46) Technology - changing the fabric of our society, art and how we consume it (0:25:42) The business of music - the good and the bad  (0:27:17) Self promotion and social media  (0:30:05) The pressure to be polished - self censoring and art (0:31:25) We are the bitcoin being mined (0:32:40) Where have all the rebels gone? (0:34:22) The Fountainhead experience - keeping it pure  (0:35:45) Archie Burnett - making time for your inner child (0:37:50) Discovering the pulse - finding the unsanitized art now  (0:39:15) After the pandemic - will it ever really end? (0:39:55) Kickstarting the art scene again - the ideal scenario (0:42:48) Art and the imposter syndrome (0:45:15) Kahil El'Zabar of the Chicago Ethnic Heritage Ensemble (0:48:10) Rise Ashen's family - growing up with art and preparing to live in our society (0:49:50) Making it rich from art - it won't be the only thing (0:50:35) Our economic system - breaking out of the imposed box (0:51:30) Celebrating the joy - home and design influencing your lifestyle (0:53:01) What's next? Mixed media, storytelling and roller skates (0:55:06) Build those synapses! Positive aging  (0:55:42) Guarding against the machine - maintaining peace in the rat race  WHO IS RISE ASHEN? https://youtu.be/iMrmg1MkC40 LISTEN! FREE Mix downloads and more at www.soundcloud.com/rise-ashen WATCH FREE Rise Ashen Music Videos! www.youtube.com/riseashen WATCH FREE Gone Monk TV shows: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKIiUL3UmYVAUKBkUWk5MyQ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riseashen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riseashen/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/riseashen www.riseashen.ca Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

In this episode, I’m speaking with early universe cosmologist Islam Khan. We talk about inflation theory, the multiverse, dark matter, and so much more! Is there such a thing as a parallel universe? Do we know why the universe has stretched? What does a cosmologist do for fun?  (0:00:50) What does a Cosmologist do?  (0:01:48) Islam Khan's journey into studying cosmology (0:04:50) The Infinite Universe vs The Observable Universe  (0:06:30) The Milky Way in the cosmic web (0:07:50) The scale of the Observable Universe (0:09:30) Are we alone out here? The possibility of alien life (0:11:50) The Inflation Theory - our stretchy Universe (0:12:45) How do we know it stretched? (0:13:30) The painting analogy  (0:14:35) How the Inflation Theory explains these problems (0:15:52) Multiverses: a consequence of inflation. What are they? (0:16:32) Max Tegmark - defining the four levels (0:17:55) Level 1: Inflation fields, Quantum Fields and the Higgs Boson (0:19:24) Level 2: Bubbles of Universes  (0:20:02) Level 3: The Many Worlds Theory (0:22:10) Level 4: An Abstract view: Changing the laws of physics (0:23:30) Do doppelgangers actually exist?  (0:24:20) Wave Function Collapse - Schrödinger's cat and Hugh Everett's theory  (0:26:03) Are we just a simulation?  (0:27:25) What caused the inflation? The ball and the hill  (0:29:10) Reheating the Universe  (0:30:25) Unifying Inflation Theory and dark energy/dark matter (0:31:45) The Theory of Everything (0:32:45) The real world applications - answering the big questions (0:34:46) The second stretching phase - what's happening now (0:35:50) Einstein's Cosmological Constant (0:37:35) Accelerated Expansion and Earth (0:40:00) Particle Cosmology - not just math (0:41:15) The Philosophical side (0:42:38) The Anthropic Principle (0:43:25) Evidence over opinion - why we can't all get along  (0:44:45) Working together - you need more than Theorists to make a theory (0:46:25) Exciting advances in research today! Stepping on Mars! New particles and more! (0:49:15) Islam Khan's interests; soccer, guitar and travel (0:52:25) Science and the arts - is there a link? (0:54:15) Conversations and discussions - other fields of interest  (0:56:20) Research is the dream Follow Islam Khan on Twitter: https://twitter.com/KhanCosmologist Islam Khan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/islam-khan-001915/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I interview Canadian Blacksmith, Lynndon Novak. Lynndon lives and works out of Winnipeg, Manitoba. He’s a welder, and an artistic blacksmith. We discuss what it takes to be a blacksmith, how to create a cheap forge, how artisans are doing in Canada, and why permanence in art is a beautiful thing. (0:01:05)  Canadian Blacksmiths and Bladesmiths group  (0:01:46)  Growing up in Manitoba (0:02:30)  The World of Trades  (0:03:25)  The School for Welding (0:04:05)  Leaving Tech and entering welding (0:05:47)  The many facets of welding and metalworking (0:06:35)  Working at New Flyer bus manufacturer (0:08:15)  Learning about welding  (0:09:00)  Winnipeg South Tech Welding Program and  choosing the right school and program for you (0:10:35)  The Abstract Blacksmith  (0:11:48)  You don't need to be a big dude to be a blacksmith - Kv Artist Blacksmith (0:13:43)  GS Tongs (0:14:35)  Building your own tools - Lynndon's tools and workshop (0:17:30)  Lynndon’s journey in blacksmithing (0:18:45)  Cloverdale Forge and Matt Jenkins (0:20:00)  Making a starter forge without breaking the bank (0:23:30)  Stepping up your game - Building a more professional forge  (0:25:58)  Fire hazards and safety awareness of building and running your own forge (0:27:40)  Building my brick propane forge (0:28:30)  Firebricks! (0:29:55)  Being a master of heat - the blacksmith wizard and metal magic (0:30:40)  What metals do you work with? Different metals and their properties (0:35:35)  Working with reclaimed steel (0:36:00)  Wootz Bloomery - the origins and history of damascus steel vs todays patterned damascus steel  (0:38:50)  Acid washing and the creation of patterns  (0:40:35)  Swords and knives  (0:42:58)  The dream of permanence in art (0:44:52)  The appreciation of artistic metalwork in Canada (0:48:30)  Building a better marketplace (0:49:30)  Manitoba Blacksmiths Guild and upcoming events (0:52:38)  Lego! Lego! Lego! (0:56:49)  Smithlist  Visit The Abstract Blacksmith on FB: https://www.facebook.com/abstractblacksmith/ Follow The Abstract Blacksmith on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abstract_blacksmith/ Visit Smithlist: https://smithlist.ca/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Science Writer and Founder of the Joyful Microbe blog and podcast, Dr. Justine Dees! We walk about why she got into content marketing, how she learned how to do it, and we get to talk about microbial life, too! Who is Dr. Justine Dees? (0:01:05) Writing for life sciences companies AND the public! (0:07:28) Learning how to do science writing (0:08:29) Marketing what you write (0:13:12) Influencing other scientists to learn marketing (0:15:28) What can be improved in science communication? (0:17:40) Scicomm on Twitter (0:20:15) What kind of content would Justine love to write about? (0:22:30) The Joyful Microbe Podcast (0:25:10) Is there a safe way to grow bacteria at home? (0:28:10) Does Justine miss the hands-on science work? (0:31:25) The science community on Twitter (0:37:09) What is a ‘Winogradsky column’? (0:38:20) Travel destinations for microbe lovers! (0:46:20) Communicating with fans (0:47:53) Discussing the Joyful Microbe podcast (0:49:30) A day in the life of a content writer (0:51:36) Visit Justine’s website: https://justinedees.com/ Follow Justine on Twitter: https://twitter.com/justineldees Follow Justine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/ Follow Joyful Microbe on Twitter: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe Visit Joyful Microbe on the web: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/ Check out the Joyful Microbe podcast: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/category/podcast-episodes/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Ben K.D. Pearce, again! This time, we talk about the latest Mars mission, as well as the building blocks for life in meteorites, and whether or not there’s phosphene on Venus! Introduction (0:00:38) Ben’s research on the origin of bio-molecules (0:01:35) Building blocks of life on meteorites (0:03:42) How do scientists know the composition of rocks in space? (0:06:10) What about drilling into asteroids? (0:08:33) Useful data in meteorites that land on Earth (0:12:32) Keeping on top of all the news in astrobiology (0:14:50) The role of nitrogen (0:15:43) Talking about the latest Mars mission (0:18:02) Could they find diatom fossils on Mars? (0:20:17) Was there life on Mars? (0:21:54) Phosphene on Venus? (0:27:14) No known chemistry (0:31:31) Why hadn’t we seen this before? (0:33:30) Common disagreements in the field of astrobiology (0:36:36) What’s the Canadian field like? (0:37:40) Saturn’s moon (0:40:40) The excitement around future expeditions (0:43:51) Rate of bombardment (0:46:46) The giant crater in Sudbury (0:48:50) The moon base (0:50:15) Ben’s work at Johns Hopkins (0:51:57) Visit Ben’s website: https://www.benkdpearce.com/ Follow Ben on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AstroBio_Ben Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with PhD student Gavin Campbell. Gavin studies the aquatic and terrestrial creatures that inhabit temporary ponds. We also talk about education in Jamaica, research on Mars, and Gavin shares some quirky facts about mosquitoes! Gavin lives and works in Jamaica (0:00:30) Talking about Perseverance on Mars (0:02:12) Collaboration within researchers (0:06:01) Differences between Jamaican and North American universities (0:07:08) Gavin’s research into aquatic and terrestrial organisms in temporary ponds (0:12:00) Gavin discovered a new species of shrimp in Jamaica (0:14:30) Where do new pond creatures come from? (0:17:33) How Gavin got the idea to research temporary ponds. (0:18:48) What does Gavin find when there is water in the pond? (0:21:01) What does Gavin find when the pond is starting to dry out? (0:23:33) The way creatures can change based on environmental changes (0:25:20) What happens when a pond is completely dry? (0:27:02) Experiments with temporary ponds (0:31:30) The species “Notonecta” eats a LOT of mosquitoes! (0:32:20) The kind of water that mosquitoes breed in. (0:34:25) Mosquitoes can smell predators from far away (0:36:58) Notonecta can be found in ponds (0:38:42) Pond jars (0:40:02) Gavin adopted and cared for a dragonfly. (0:40:29) Gavin’s obsession with dragons. (0:43:15) Cool facts about dragonflies. (0:44:20) Gavin’s obsession with his research (0:45:30) What cartoons does Gavin enjoy? (0:47:37) The desire to do voice acting. (0:49:25) Follow Gavin on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dragonecology Visit Gavin’s website: https://www.dragoninflight.com/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Rachel Diner. She is researching the microbiome of oysters. Her research helps us learn how oyster microbiomes affect human health. We also talk about science communication, surfing, and other microbes that exist in coastal areas! Dr Diner’s career path (0:00:48) Why are we studying the microbiome of oysters? (0:02:50) What is a ‘microbiome’? (0:04:28) Viruses as part of the microbiome (0:06:00) Learning about the oyster species (0:07:32) How learning about oyster microbiome informs human health (0:08:19) Artificial oyster reefs (0:10:42) Working at Scripps (0:12:54) What’s been surprising about her research so far? (0:15:01) Early days of microbiome research (0:16:02) Things humans can get from oysters (0:17:43) Threats to oyster microbiomes (0:21:54) How do microbes evolve within a microbiome? (0:23:54) How long do oysters live? (0:25:02) Fecal matter transplants? (0:26:14) Opportunities to study other microbiomes (0:27:20) Assumptions made about marine biology work (0:29:27) Science communication (0:30:17) The post-doc reality (0:33:52) Free Living microbes (0:35:52) Dr. Diner’s love of surfing (0:37:43) Ear infections from microbes (0:38:24) How and why she picked up surfing (0:40:27) Research freedom (0:43:18) Does Dr. Diner still eat oysters? (0:48:15) Visit Rachel’s website: https://racheldiner.com/ Follow Rachel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/racheldiner Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

** Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld** In this episode, I speak with Jenn Blanchett. Jenn has worked as a Science Communicator with Science North, and now works as a teacher. We talk about science communication for the public by non-scientists, the important role that artists play in scicomm, and the joys of sharing knowledge with different audiences. Introduction (0:00:30) What is Science North?(0:01:33) The animals at Science North (0:04:31) Jenn’s background (0:07:26) The controversy of scicomm when you’re not a scientist (0:12:45) The importance of simplifying scientific knowledge (0:18:51) The science community should work with artists (0:21:30) Grad programs in scicomm (0:25:07) Jenn Learns Stuff video series (0:28:15) Scicomm on TikTok and other video mediums (0:34:54) Targeting audiences (0:36:44) Science North theatre shows (0:39:18) Bizarre questions from the public (0:40:56) Communicating with different audiences (0:42:23) Scicomm training on the job (0:44:54) High school teaching (0:48:14) Is the talent for scicomm innate or learned? (0:51:50) What Jenn does for pleasure (0:53:33) Watch “Jenn Learns Stuff” on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCoUzSOhJy8&list=PLhAjGkpomY84qb4tDHLIVv-4McHMJat1u Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

** Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld** In this episode, I speak with Ira Seidenstein, PhD. He’s a teacher, author, and director currently living and working in Australia. We talk about the state of the arts today, teaching actors, as well as what it was like to work and tour with large productions like Cirque du Soleil. Introduction (0:00:30) Why he settled in Australia (0:01:38) The arts in Australian culture then, and now (0:02:53) Did the lack of work promote innovation or stagnation? (0:04:30) How bureaucracy and academia might stifle creativity (0:07:10) Local culture makes a big difference (0:11:00) Working at Cirque du Soleil (0:16:33) The culture of Cirque du Soleil (0:19:45) He’s worked on over a hundred shows (0:25:36) Transitioning to directing (0:28:43) Not fitting into the commercial environment (0:35:30) Stories from touring (0:37:20) Quantum Theatre: Slapstick to Shakespeare (0:40:00) Vulnerability and empowerment (0:51:30) A book recommendation for artists (0:56:09) Visit Ira’s website: https://iraseid.com/ Ira’s new book: https://iraseid.com/book-quantum-theatre-slapstick-to-shakespeare Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

In this episode, I speak with Jennifer Demitor, an installation artist, and an architect! I’d never spoken to an architect before, so we discussed what an architect does, how Jennifer plans for new projects, how inspiration plays a role in her work, and in her art. She also gives us some good tips on creating interesting spaces! Introduction to Jennifer’s work (0:00:50) Jennifer’s artistic process (0:04:15) Finding places to explore as an artist (0:05:25) Discussing concrete as a material (0:06:32) Can you sand or shape concrete? (0:08:51) Making an income as an artist (0:10:45) Private commissions vs public commissions (0:11:44) Working with, and bending wood (0:13:23) What kind of wood does Jennifer work with? (0:14:50) How does a new design start? (0:16:00) Working with steel (0:18:10) Collaboration in architecture (0:19:50) International differences in building materials (0:20:56) What kind of architect is Jennifer? (0:21:47) Architects are the ‘general practitioners’ of a build (0:23:20) How it would work to build an eccentric building! (0:25:09) Why do we have so many square rooms? (0:26:58) Meaningful designs (0:29:22) Castles are dark and cold! (0:34:26) Plants and vegetation (0:35:33) What role does nature play in Jennifer’s work? (0:38:20) Environmentally-friendly design (0:39:44) How to improve playgrounds (0:43:17) Designing for playfulness (0:45:36) Different architects, different styles? (0:47:01) Work-life balance and the personal side of things (0:49:23) Visit Jennifer’s Artist website: https://www.jenniferdemitor.com/ Visit Fabricae Architecture on the web: https://www.fabricaearchitecture.com/ Follow Fabricae Architecture on FB: https://www.facebook.com/fabricaearch/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Kel Pero, owner of KMP and Associates. Kel left academia to start her own business as an academic editor and copywriter. We discuss all sorts of topics relating to writing and editing, such as the importance of clarity, popular mistakes in writing, and how the command of language can play a big role in your success in the working world. Introduction to Dr. Kel’s background (0:00:54) Working independently vs working in academia (0:07:35) Advice for academics who want to communicate their research (0:09:45) “Alternative Academy” (0:15:35) The importance of clarity (0:19:57) How the editing process works (0:25:27) Popular mistakes in writing (0:30:07) Context, content, and the formal use of language (0:34:08) Being skilled at writing in the corporate world (0:39:03) Potential for work as a good writer (0:43:31) The Oxford Comma: yay or nay? (0:49:11) The acting business (0:50:46) Dr. Kel’s recommendations for writers (0:56:25) Visit KMP and Associates: https://www.kmpandassociates.com/ Follow Dr. Kel on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrKel_Editor Follow KMP on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kmpandassociates/ Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

In this episode, I speak with Hannah Davis, a PhD student in Biology. We talk about her research with fruit flies, her previous research with termites, and we talk a bit about wasps, hover flies, and what it’s like to be expecting a child for the first time! Introduction (0:00:30) Why fruit flies are a model organism in science (0:01:33) Choosing to study insects out of curiosity (0:02:50) What is a “chill coma”? (0:04:01) Fruit fly cold tolerance traits (0:06:12) The hardiness of one specific fruit fly species (0:08:40) Research during COVID (0:09:58) Differences between ants and termites (0:10:35) Body structure between ants and termites (0:12:55) Termites are social cockroaches! (0:14:09) The caste system in termite colonies (0:15:28) Termites have a king! (0:16:30) Lab colonies are different from the wild (0:17:45) Watching termites is fun! (0:18:48) The termite soldier class (0:19:27) What did they feed termites in the lab? (0:22:20) Hannah’s research with termites (0:23:42) Diseases that affect termites (0:25:20) Pest insects are great to study! (0:26:37) The smell in labs! (0:28:30) Studying science in Germany (0:31:20) University differences between Canada and Germany (0:34:39) Differences in creatures and fauna (0:37:50) Talking about hornets! (0:39:45) A hornet’s stinger is a modified lady part! (0:40:56) Hannah’s love of hover flies (0:43:20) Mimicry in nature (0:46:25) The love of spiders (0:48:07) Hannah is expecting a baby! (0:49:12) Plans for the next year (0:55:34) Hannah Davis on ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Hannah_Davis3 Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

** Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld** In this episode, I speak with Dr. Elie Diner, a former scientist turned marketer. He specializes in content marketing, SEO, and science communication. We end up talking a lot about how “marketing” is perceived in the science community, why SEO matters, and why storytelling is a crucial element in getting your brand or messaging out to more people. Introduction (0:00:30) Former scientist turned marketer (0:01:08) Is “marketing” a dirty word in science? (0:02:01) Dr. Diner’s work as a scientist (0:03:02) When did he decide, “that’s it, I’m done”? (0:05:07) Why go into Marketing? (0:06:30) Cultural differences in scicomm (0:10:10) “Science shouldn’t be marketed!” (0:11:38) Writing in marketing (0:12:43) What kind of clients does he work with? (0:16:51) Communicating with the public (0:18:56) Is there an organization that tackles science misinformation? (0:21:11) The importance of storytelling (0:23:02) How does Dr. Diner come up with a story? (0:25:39) SEO and making a story enjoyable to read (0:28:12) How to get people to find you on Google searches (0:29:17) Doing SEO with a limited budget (0:32:00) SEO long-tail keywords (0:34:34) Knowing your target audience (0:38:11) Clients who don’t follow professional advice(0:40:15) Reinforcing authenticity within clients (0:43:38) What makes Dr. Diner different from all of the other marketers? (0:45:20) Workaholism (0:48:16) A sense of play (0:50:18) What are Dr. Diner’s dream marketing campaigns? (0:53:01) The preference to work independently (0:54:37) Visit Werd Lab: https://werdlab.com/ Dr. Diner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliediner/ Follow Dr. Diner on Twitter: https://twitter.com/elie_diner As mentioned on the show, learn more about James Randi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Randi Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

In this episode, I speak with Paleolimnologist, Dr. Jeffery Stone. Dr. Stone explores diatoms and diatom fossils, teaches at Indiana State University, and he’s also a Twitch streamer! We talk about all of these things, and more! Introduction (0:00:24) What is a ‘paleolimnologist’? (0:01:48) What is a ‘diatom’? (0:02:49) Diatom motility - how they move! (0:03:58) Diatom shapes in different environments (0:05:16) How long do diatoms live? (0:06:32) How and what diatoms eat (0:08:15) Diatom fossils (0:09:50) Where to find a 10 million year old diatom! (0:11:16) Other microscopic creatures that leave fossils (0:14:05) Tardigrade fossils (0:15:30) Why study diatom fossils? (0:16:47) Studying diatom fossils in Lake Idaho (0:19:40) Diatoms evolve over time (0:21:21) Diatoms produce about 40% of the air we breathe (0:25:17) What diatom fossils tell us about climate change (0:27:40) Cross-specialty talk (0:32:05) Science is all about discovery (0:35:20) Professorship (0:36:04) How to teach so that people can understand you (0:36:50) Dr. Stone on Twitch! (0:39:30) The Twitch community (0:47:32) Twitch as an outreach tool for science (0:48:30) The scanning electron microscope (0:51:44) Follow Dr. Stone on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiatomsATTACK Watch Dr. Stone on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/diatomsattack Dr. Stone on RedBubble: https://www.redbubble.com/people/DiatomsATTACK/shop?asc=u Follow the SEM Lab on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sem_indiana_state/?hl=en Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

** Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld** In this episode, I speak with Kita Williams, a marine biologist in Australia! We talk about various sea creatures, like sponges, jellyfish, sharks, and sea slugs. We also talk about how to do rockpooling and how to find marine Tardigrades!  Introduction and background (0:00:40) Perception of marine biologists (0:02:16) Sea grass! (0:02:56) Colours in the ocean (0:05:11) Kita’s research on sponges (0:05:30) A sponge is an animal! (0:07:03) How do sponges reproduce? (0:10:25) Is it safe to hold a sponge in your hands? (0:12:20) Sponges are in every ocean (0:13:00) Jellyfish: friend or foe? (0:15:08) Blue dragon and borrowing from other creatures (0:18:56) Research from marine animals (0:20:30) Venomous creatures in the ocean (0:22:38) What is ‘rockpooling’? (0:25:20) Go to iNaturalist to find out what species are in your area (0:27:30) Creating salt-water pond jars? (0:29:00) Being cautious when handling sea animals (0:31:08) What creatures Kita hopes to find next! (0:32:14) Sharks! (0:33:52) Scuba diving (0:34:41) The curiosity of wild animals (0:36:39) The coral reefs (0:38:30) Environmental concerns about the marine environment (0:41:55) Marine Tardigrades (0:43:10) Kita’s Youtube channel (0:47:00) Tardigrade fossils (0:49:00) Science communication (0:50:30) Playing the piano (0:54:20) Kita’s next plans (0:56:25) Follow Kita on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SeaSpongeCake Subscribe to Kita on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAkVVV4SF1kdml16wfKP8g/videos Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

In this episode, I speak with Jules Poulin, owner of From the Neck Up. Jules has developed a unique massage therapy practice that focuses on the head, neck, jaw and mouth of patients. Jules has also innovated a new way for patients and massage therapists to communicate using hand signals! Introduction and background (0:00:30) From the Neck Up - the only of its kind in the world (0:01:50) RMTs aren’t allowed to use the word “Specialist” in Ontario (0:03:35) Creating a patient-focused business (0:05:45) What is TMJD? (0:10:30) How does Jules approach a new patient? (0:12:38) Staying on top of new research (0:14:30) The desire to work with scientists for research (0:15:55) Massaging the tongue (0:19:17) Helping with dysphagia (0:22:14) Has Jules ever been bitten by a patient? (0:23:18) Why communication is so important in manual therapy (0:25:07) Lack of proper communication with RMTs (0:28:00) Should massage therapy be covered by the government? (0:31:14) Differences in massage therapy practices per province/state. (0:32:40) Plans for expansion? (0:33:50) Self-care tips for performers (0:38:00) Stress-related pain (0:39:20) How Jules relaxes (0:40:45) Jules has a huge record collection (0:41:39) Music in the clinic (0:43:19) Being a maverick (0:44:58) The support of colleagues in the industry (0:47:10) Top three challenges as an entrepreneur (49:18) Advice for success: know your strengths (0:53:00) Visit From the Neck Up on the web: https://fromtheneckupmassage.com/ Follow From the Neck Up on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fromtheneckupmassage/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Sandrine Lafond. A trained dancer from France who worked with Marie Chouinard in Canada, danced for Celine Dion in Vegas, and then performed with Cirque du Soleil. Today, Sandrine is a co-owner and artist with Miyusaka, a kimono and japanese calligraphy business. Introduction and background (0:00:30) Sandrine’s beginnings in France and in dance (0:01:15) The appeal to work and create in Montreal (0:03:40) The decision to make a living as a professional dancer (0:05:52) How do you know when you’re a great artist? (0:07:45) The daily regimen of a trained dancer (0:10:50) Competition or community in the dance world (0:12:42) Balance between being directed and being yourself (0:15:10) Transition from Canadian productions to US productions (0:16:43) What’s it like to be on stage during a Celine Dion concert? (0:18:22) Being in the spotlight vs being in the background (0:20:45) Is talent innate or learned? (0:23:02) Giving it your all and work ethic (0:24:17) Drugs and alcohol in the arts and in dance (0:27:20) Studying clowning (0:30:33) “Little Lady” Sandrine’s one-woman show (0:34:30) The pressure to sell yourself as an artist (0:40:00) Artists and menopause (0:42:52) Shodo: the art of Japanese Calligraphy (0:48:20) Miyusaka: the art of kimonos (0:52:37) Visit Miyusaka on the web: https://miyusaka.com/ Follow Miyusaka on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/contactmiyusaka/ Follow Miyusaka on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ContactMiyusaka/ Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

In this episode, I speak with Nathalie Claude, an actor and director from Montreal, Quebec. Nathalie has had a long career in the arts both in independent theatre, as a clown and a coach for Cirque du Soleil, and as a collaborator on many extraordinary shows and performances. Nathalie joins me to talk about what inspires her work, why she loves living and working in Montreal, and why perfectionism and precision is crucial in her approach to her artistic work. Nathalie’s many roles in the creative industry (0:01:02) The difference between being on stage and behind the curtain (0:04:30) Exploring the possibilities of working in film (0:06:36) Perfectionism: innate or trained? (0:08:45) Personal creative challenges (0:10:44) Knowing when a concept is finished (0:13:01) The experience of working for Cirque du Soleil (0:14:14) Missing Montreal (0:18:00) The Quebec arts scene (0:20:15) The business of art (0:31:35) The impact of technology on art (0:33:23) “A funny woman is a scary thing.” (0:37:10) Experiencing a creative rut (0:43:05) Early beginning as an artist (0:47:11) Advice for young people who want to be actors (0:47:50) Nathalie’s curiosity about life (0:49:49) Nathalie’s current projects (0:52:43) Visit Nathalie Claude on the web: http://nathalieclaude.com/en/home Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with urban moss researcher, Alison Haynes. We talk about where moss can be found in cities, how research about urban moss can help design new sustainable options, and we learn a bit more about Alison switch from journalist to scientist, to the research she did in Antarctica! Alison’s research interests in moss (0:00:54) Awareness of moss (0:03:28) The beauty of moss (0:04:33) Moss in Australia (0:05:35) Moss in deserts (0:06:54) Looking for Tardigrades in moss (0:07:41) Creatures in moss (0:08:50) Where to find moss in a city (0:10:45) Invasive moss (0:12:00) The applications of researching urban moss (0:13:09) Moss carpets (0:14:52) International examples of using moss in green architecture (0:15:55) Moss and biodesign (0:17:10) Studying moss propagation with tiles (0:18:04) “Microtopography” (0:20:00) Creating cement environments (0:20:30) Can moss be microscopic? (0:21:53) Looking at moss under a microscope (0:23:30) Different species of moss (0:24:00) How beginners can learn more about moss (0:24:39) Common names for moss (0:25:53) Silver moss and moss colours (0:26:53) Difference between moss and lichen (0:27:43) Sexual reproduction of moss (0:28:30) Toxic moss? (0:30:36) From England to Australia (0:32:35) From Law to Journalism to Science (0:36:46) Science communication (0:40:50) Doing science in Antarctica (0:44:31) Future plans (0:50:20) “Living walls” (0:51:33) International study of urban moss (0:52:40) Follow Alison Haynes on Twitter: https://twitter.com/alisonhaynes1 Visit Alison Haynes’ website: https://alisonhaynes.wordpress.com/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

Is there life on Mars? How did life form on Earth? And, how do scientists learn all of this stuff? In this episode, I speak with astrobiologist and astrophysicist, Ben K. D. Pearce. Ben helps us understand how scientists get clues about the origins of life, what would happen if we found life on Mars, and how atmospheres form on planets! What is an astrobiologist? (0:00:54) Ben used to be a software engineer. (0:01:37) The career re-evaluation process (0:03:10) The freedom and chaos of living in Berlin (0:06:10) Being an older grad student (0:09:10) Life at McMaster University and in Hamilton (0:09:58) The Origins of Life (0:11:21) Two theories about the origins of life (0:13:53) At what point do we think life happened on Earth? (0:17:30) How scientists get clues about the origins of life (0:19:30) The various kinds of scientists that study life (0:22:50) Examples of what Earth might have been like in the past (0:23:53) How does an atmosphere form? (0:24:56) Using info from the past to create an atmosphere in the future (0:26:45) Gazing at the sky when you’re an astrobiologist (0:28:40) What is an exoplanet? (0:30:01) Will we find other life in the universe? (0:31:15) Finding other life in our solar system (0:31:51) Life on Mars (0:33:43) What would happen if we found life on Mars? (0:34:12) The ethics of finding other life (0:35:29) Is it possible that we’ve already had extraterrestrial life on Earth? (0:37:25) Finding Tardigrades on Mars?! (0:39:22) Science communication (0:40:48) Ben’s hobbies: beer and rock-climbing (0:44:13) Brewing beer! (0:46:10) Ben’s love of hot sauces (0:48:44) Ben’s future plans (0:53:00) Ben’s recommendations to learn more about the origins of life (0:56:20) Visit Ben’s website: https://www.benkdpearce.com/ Follow Ben on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AstroBio_Ben Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Fat Cells Researcher, Dr. Ariane Pessentheiner. We talk about how obesity is technically a disease, how chronic inflammation is really bad for you, and how there’s no such thing as “burning fat”. Dr. Pessentheiner is a researcher in Austria who is now devoting her time to the communication of science! Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld Timestamps: Moving during a pandemic (0:00:37) Dr. Ariane’s work as a biochemist (0:01:46) What are fat cells, and what do they do? (0:02:33) Is there such a thing as a ‘slow metabolism’? (0:04:12) Myths and misconceptions about fat and obesity. (0:05:46) Top three reasons people gain weight. (0:06:52) Obesity is a disease. (0:10:06) There’s no current market solution for food addiction (0:11:32) Epigenetics and obesity (0:12:44) The socio-economic factors of obesity (0:15:35) Do different foods affect fat cells the same way? (0:17:23) Trans-fatty acids (0:19:55) What is Dr. Ariane’s specialty? (0:22:29) Type 2 Diabetes (0:24:18) Diabetes and obesity (0:26:00) Fat cells and inflammation (0:27:33) Communication between organs during imbalance of metabolism (0:28:34) Inflammation is serious (0:30:20) Sleep deprivation is a big factor in obesity (0:32:40) Metabolic diseases (0:34:43) What’s the difference between fat burning and fat storage? (0:35:37) Advertisements that say “burn fat!” (0:37:40) Personal connection to her research (0:39:12) Does Dr. Ariane enjoy being a scientist? (0:41:37) Imposter syndrome in science (0:45:15) Dr. Ariane’s other passion is art! (0:48:50) Creativity in the arts, and in science (0:50:41) Dr. Ariane’s long-term ambitions (0:53:15) Follow Dr. Pessentheiner on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArtSci_ARP Dr. Pessentheiner on ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ariane_Pessentheiner Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

In this episode, I interview a friend of mine, performance artist Jacqueline Van de Geer. Originally from the Netherlands, and now living in Montreal, Jacqueline is a multi-talented, multi-faceted artist. She is currently exploring the aging process in her work. We talk about interdisciplinary approaches in the arts, working class artists, and how obsession leads to new ideas. Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld Connecting with each other on Facebook (0:00:50) Jacqueline’s current work (0:02:15) Artists can express themselves in various ways (0:04:04) The aging process as an artist (0:07:55) The working class family background as an artist (0:13:34) Dealing with financial insecurity (0:19:03) Choosing Montreal over NYC (0:26:46) Becoming accustomed to the unexpected (0:31:09) The love and hate of the term “outsider art” (0:36:04) Obsession and interests (0:39:40) Life as an artist during the pandemic (0:43:05) The act of breaking walls and barriers (0:50:52) How can the public learn more about her work? (0:53:18) Visit Jacqueline Van De Geer’s website: http://www.jacquelinevandegeer.com/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm

In this episode, I speak with UK Herpetologist, Steve Allain. We talk about frogs, toads, and snakes, as well as the diseases that affect them! What is a herpetologist? (0:00:40) Chytrid: a fungal pathogen! (0:02:04) Chytrid in North America (0:05:36) Is chytrid harmful to humans? (0:08:00) Treating fungal infections in frogs. (0:09:01) Can we eradicate chytrid? (0:10:05) What you can do about it (0:12:30) The plague of frogs (0:13:38) Why did Steve become interested in this? (0:16:59) Best way to preserve habitat for amphibians (0:20:10) How to handle frogs (0:22:15) Myths about toads (0:25:08) Where to find toads (0:26:47) Differences between frogs and toads (0:28:18) Steve is a vegetarian (0:30:33) Why Steve is fascinated by snakes (0:31:34) Snakes in the Arctic (0:34:00) What do Arctic snakes eat? (0:35:46) Snake fungal disease (0:37:22) Good news in conservation (0:40:07) Science communication online (0:43:22) Youthful enthusiasm in academia (0:46:19) Book reviews by Steve (0:48:40) Does Steve want to write a book? (0:51:43) Steve’s dream job (0:52:30) Steve’s website: http://stevenallain.co.uk/ Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/stevoallain Follow Steve on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SJRAllain/ Follow Steve on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevoallain/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld Check out our podcasting host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free, no credit card required, forever. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-ee981d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Planet B612.

Dr Rose Hayden-Smith is the author of Sowing the Seeds of Victory: American Gardening Programs of World War I. We discuss Victory Gardens, food security, women in farming and more! Dr Hayden-Smith’s history specialty (0:00:54) What are Victory Gardens? (0:01:55) The Women’s Land Army (0:03:20) World War I movements (0:04:35) The art of the Victory Gardens posters (0:06:20) The adoption of planting gardens (0:08:12) School gardening (0:10:18) Funding from National Defence (0:12:43) How highways changed the way we eat (0:17:55) The desire for meaning (0:19:08) Cooking, bread-making today (0:22:54) Hunger and food access (0:24:30) Hydroponic indoor gardening (0:28:29) Sisters of the Soil (0:30:04) Women in farming today (0:32:19) How to keep the momentum going (0:32:55) Food security in politics (0:36:16) State-level food policies (0:37:10) Faith communities and agriculture (0:39:11) Optimism in the future (0:40:28) Good starter vegetables for beginners (0:42:15) Dr. Hayden-Smith’s memories in gardens (0:43:50) Dr. Rose Hayden-Smith’s website: https://rosehaydensmith.com/ Buy the book! https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/sowing-the-seeds-of-victory/ Dr. Rose Hayden-Smith on Twitter: https://twitter.com/victorygrower Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld Check out our podcasting host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free, no credit card required, forever. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-ee981d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Planet B612.

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Marjan Eggermont, an expert in bio-inspired design. We talk about design and sustainability, new innovations in design, why companies should hire scientists, and Marjan’s own work as an artist. Intro (0:00:42) Marjan has a degree in military history (0:01:25) How Marjan also ended up with a BFA and an MFA (0:03:08) Marjan followed her curiosity and then got a PhD (0:04:25) Interdisciplinary approach to the arts (0:07:54) Why is bio-inspired design part of engineering? (0:08:37) Is biomimicry the same thing as bio-design? (0:10:22) Have plastics become more sustainable because of biodesign? (0:12:31) Studying animals in biomimicry (0:13:34) Snakes in biodesign (0:16:48) Life in urban centres (0:18:06) Teaching biodesign (0:19:13) Interest in microorganisms and Tardigrades (0:20:33) Bio-inspired design inspired by the micro-world (0:24:15) Reverse-engineering in order to create (0:27:13) Companies are hiring biologists for design (0:29:20) How can scientists get jobs in this field? (0:30:50) Have animals mimicked humans? (0:32:22) Zygote Quarterly: a biodesign journal (0:34:32) How does Zygote find people to feature in their journal? (0:36:56) Marjan’s art (0:39:05) Moving to Canada (0:40:57) Perceptions of being an artist who’s also a professor (0:42:00) Pausing as an artist (0:44:25) What inspires new work? (0:45:50) Teaching as a passion (0:46:55) Teaching online during the pandemic (0:47:18) Using art in bio-inspired design classes (0:48:39) Twenty years of teaching (0:50:06) Living in Calgary (0:50:43) Impressions of living in Canada (0:51:30) First thing Marjan will do when the pandemic is over (0:55:50) Zygote Quarterly: https://zqjournal.org/ U of Calgary bio: https://schulich.ucalgary.ca/contacts/marjan-eggermont Marjan’s artwork: https://www.herringerkissgallery.com/marjan-eggermont Little Ray’s Reptiles: https://littlerays.org/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Peter Keep, more well-known as “Prof Peter” on Twitch. Peter teaches math in Chicago to college students, but what makes him unique is that he also teaches math online, through Twitch. I speak with him about teaching math, what motivates students, and why he loves teaching math. Join Julie’s World for additional content! Go to https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld Prof Peter discovered Twitch (0:00:32) The PigeonHole Principle (0:01:02) Using visuals when teaching math (0:02:12) Why did Prof Peter get interested in math? (0:03:22) What makes for a good high school math teacher? (0:05:10) What role does curiosity play in mathematics? (0:07:00) What is Calculus? (0:10:20) What is ‘infinity’? (0:11:37) The foundation of statistics. (0:13:15) What does Prof Peter teach? (0:14:30) How to motivate students? (0:15:25) How to deal with students who are gifted? (0:17:03) How does online teaching work? (0:19:42) Are the kids gonna be ok? (0:21:44) Dyscalculia and other challenges (0:22:53) Calculus reform and other changes in teaching (0:25:15) Why did Prof Peter decide to teach? (0:27:45) Teaching math on Twitch (0:30:15) Imposter syndrome in academia (0:35:20) Teaching the history of mathematics (0:37:06) The story of mathematician that died in a duel (0:39:02) Writing a book (0:41:30) Recommendations for “pop math” books (0:42:43) Learning math as an adult (0:44:34) What does a math prof do for fun? (0:48:30) Future-proofing your career (0:51:50) Movies and stories about math (0:53:15) Prof Peter on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/professorpeter Prof Peter on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MathProfPeter Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with singer, musician and artist, Julie McInnes. Born in Australia, Julie has always been a musical artist. From Circus OZ to Cirque du Soleil, and now, as an independent artist, Julie has a lot of info and wisdom to share about the art and craft of bringing music to life. Join Julie’s World for additional content! Go to https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld The experience of playing a cello (0:01:02) Cello demo (0:03:00) Julie’s early experiences with music in Australia (0:04:22) The support of family to pursue the arts (0:08:50) Being inspired by Canadian music (0:10:42) Julie’s transition from Circus OZ to Cirque du Soleil (0:15:20) Voice demo (0:21:17) How Julie uses her voice as an instrument. (0:22:55) The pressure of being like everyone else (0:26:57) Julie has always worked in collectives (0:31:53) Creativity blossoms under pressure (0:33:42) The joy of collaborations (0:35:04) Julie’s relationship with her wife who is also an artist (0:36:39) Working with various groups over time (0:40:45) Julie’s interests today, including visual art (0:44:53) Being a multidisciplinary artist (0:48:29) Living with imposter syndrome (0:52:50) Does Julie’s cello have a name? (1:00:07) Julie McInnes on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/julamac Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Stephen Thackeray, a Freshwater Ecologist in the UK. We learn a lot about plankton, invasive species, we talk climate change and warming. And then, we learn that Steve has an artistic side, too! Join Julie’s World for additional content! Go to https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld Many ecologists don’t use their “Dr” title. (0:00:24) Dr. Thackeray’s work as a freshwater ecologist (0:01:28) The kinds of tools to use to observe life in lakes (0:03:41) What are Plankton? (0:08:00) What are bacterial plankton? (0:09:35) The role of plankton. (0:10:49) What causes algal blooms? (0:12:44) Nutrients for growth of organisms (0:15:18) Can you grow algae at home? (0:16:03) Invasive species in lakes (0:16:40) Light penetration in lakes (0:22:56) Diseases in lakes (0:25:12) Steve’s favourite creature (0:26:07) How Steve got interested in wildlife (0:28:06) Communicating science to the public (0:29:33) Tardigrades in lakes? (0:34:26) Steve’s research and what it tells us about climate change.(0:35:42) What causes warming? (0:39:23) How to deal with the denial of science? (0:40:17) What does Dr Thackeray do for fun? (0:41:43) Decisions to make after a PhD. (0:46:46) Looking forward to life after the pandemic. (0:50:53) Follow Dr Thackeray on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SteveThackeray Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Daryl Traylor, a former combat medic who’s now a PhD candidate in Nursing. We talk about his experience in the Army, being a non-traditional student, and African-American healthcare in the US. Daryl is a man with a big heart and passion for learning! Join Julie’s World for additional content! Go to https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld Why study Nursing? (0:00:37) How does funding work for his PhD program? (0:02:05) “Non-traditional student” (0:02:39) Why did Daryl join the military? (0:04:48) Serving in the Gulf War (0:06:56) “Tribes”, or the bond between troops (0:08:11) Daryl’s Dad was a Pharmacist (0:12:00) His high school Biology teacher was a great mentor (0:13:58) Daryl’s Dad is a living example of evolving as a person (0:15:44) “People are just people” (0:17:10) Derek Anderson: living as a gay, black man in Detroit (0:18:10) African-American healthcare in the US (0:21:11) Medical textbooks rarely include PoC images (0:24:58) Is Daryl’s research personal? (0:27:50) Prescribing practices for African-Americans in the US (0:30:33) What is “PreP”? (0:31:40) When will Daryl complete his PhD? (0:34:53) Assessing HIV stigma and knowledge (0:36:22) Daryl’s wife is also an academic (0:39:00) Smoothies! (0:39:53) Daryl’s wife plays a big role in his education (0:41:13) Why medical school? (0:42:30) Prescription drug addiction (0:44:47) Daryl wants to do primary care (0:46:20) Life during a pandemic (0:47:35) Living in Texas (0:49:14) What does it take to be a good teacher? (0:50:37) Advice to young people (0:53:57) Potentially writing a book? (0:56:02) Daryl Traylor on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CaribMD2Be Daryl Traylor on ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Daryl_Traylor Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Dr Bryan Heit, an Immunologist with over twenty years of experience in the field. We talk about macrophages, T-cells, Tuberculosis and COVID-19! Dr Heit is also an experienced beer brewer! Wanna support the show? Go to https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld What is an Immunologist? (0:01:04) “Boost your immune system” (0:02:07) Immune responses (0:03:07) Taking additional vitamins (0:03:33) What is a macrophage? (0:04:45) Are we all born with macrophages? (0:06:11) How does a macrophage work? (0:06:35) What is a pathogen? (0:07:24) Why did Dr. Heit study immunology? (0:08:20) How pathogens work (0:10:26) Tuberculosis (0:11:41) How do we get rid of Tuberculosis? (0:12:38) Can you genetically modify macrophages? (0:13:31) Immune system treatments (0:15:07) Dr Heit’s courses (0:16:48) Misinformation about vaccines (0:17:39) Lack of funding in science communication (0:19:43) Vaccines are a different area of immunology (0:20:37) What is inflammation? (0:21:17) Does the immune system have a puppet master? (0:26:06) T-Cells in Cancer (0:29:50) Books about immune system (0:32:34) Writing about immunology (0:33:49) Recruiting post-docs (0:34:50) How COVID-19 impacts the immune system (0:37:15) Does Dr. Heit constantly think about work? (0:38:22) Raising goats (0:40:00) Male goats (0:40:35) Why goats?! (0:41:50) Brewing beer (0:42:59) Microbiology of beer (0:45:30) Capturing yeast from the environment (0:46:22) Experimenting for beer brewing (0:48:23) Beekeeping (0:49:45) Is it hard to take up beekeeping? (0:50:05) Dr. Heit and his wife enjoy nature (0:53:05) Relaxation and the immune system (0:53:48) Eating your veggies (0:55:01) Dr. Bryan Heit on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BryanHeit Dr. Bryan Heit’s Lab: http://phagocytes.ca/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Yinan Wang, a mineral and fossils expert. Yinan is also the author of “50 State Fossils”. We speak about how to find fossils, why meteorites are so valuable, how to tell if amber is fake, and we learn more about what books Yinan wants to write next! Join Julie’s World for additional content! Go to https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld Yinan is a jack of all trades (0:00:27) How Yinan got interested in fossils and minerals (0:01:20) Yinan’s book “50 State Fossils” (0:02:12) State Fossils quiz (0:03:10) Can you keep stuff you find? (0:04:34) Finding stuff in amber (0:07:18) What is amber? (0:08:22) Fake amber (0:09:14) Where to find amber (0:11:09) What can you find in a random hole? (0:12:09) Diamonds in Canada (0:13:10) Can anyone mine diamonds? (0:14:26) Yinan has tried prospecting (0:16:19) What is opal? (0:16:39) Have all minerals been identified? (0:17:58) Mineral hunting and buying (0:19:00) Yinan’s favorite mineral (0:19:45) How do you know when something is interesting? (0:20:43) How does rock/mineral hunting work? (0:21:18) Modern minerals and age of fossils (0:22:55) How is the age of a fossil determined? (0:23:52) What to do with a fossil you find? (0:24:45) Yinan’s favorite fossil (0:25:21) Living out the childhood dream (0:26:15) Do treasure hunters still exist today? (0:26:52) How they track meteorites. (0:28:46) How often do meteors fall? (0:30:12) Meteorites on the market (0:31:10) What are meteorites made out of? (0:32:12) Where to get a meteorite? (0:33:30) What tools should rockhounds have? (0:35:31) Yinan’s Patreon account (0:38:00) Tech tools (0:38:54) What other interests does Yinan have? (0:40:05) Yinan’s education (0:41:20) Yinan’s upbringing (0:42:51) Life at Princeton (0:44:06) Talking about music (0:44:57) What does Yinan tell people he does for a living? (0:45:55) Yinan is writing more books (0:46:20) Yinan talks about Dr. Gerta Keller (0:48:53) What websites does Yinan recommend for beginners? (0:53:43) Yinan Wang on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FossilLocator Yinan Wang on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/fossillocator Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld

In this episode, I speak with Fleche Love, a singer and songwriter whose work I’ve been enjoying for years now. Fleche is a talented artist who had to create her own path. Originally from Switzerland, and now living in Paris, she’s the type of artist who isn’t scared to share her vulnerability and passions with the world, whether it’s through song, through dance or through words. Join Julie’s World for additional content! Go to https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld Introductions and format of the interview (0:00:23) Fleche Love’s background (0:01:05) The challenge of being accepted as an artist (0:02:14) Moving to Paris (0:03:19) Why Paris is better for artists (0:04:16) Ottawa is the Switzerland of Canada (0:06:05) “My home is myself.” (0:06:33) Access to creative people in Paris (0:07:16) Writing “Castle in the Snow” (0:08:05) The creative process (0:09:56) Releasing music and being surprised by it (0:11:55) Fleche Love’s identity is always evolving (0:12:43) Other interests: bio-mimicry (0:14:03) How nature inspires Fleche Love (0:14:55) The song “Festa Tocandira” (0:15:57) The on-stage persona (0:20:10) Media interviews vs longer formats (0:22:03) The realities of touring (0:22:23) Missing the contact with fans in person (0:24:08) Differences in audiences around the world (0:26:05) Connecting with people online (0:28:10) Working with photographer Roberto Greco (0:28:58) How the creative partnerships work (0:30:40) Creating music is playing (0:32:20) Tiny houses (0:33:16) The importance of time alone (0:35:30) Playing by different rules (0:37:00) The push/pull of the music industry (0:38:13) Advice to young artists (0:39:50) Fleche Love and Patreon (0:40:56) Being a woman in the industry (0:43:54) The name “Fleche Love” (0:45:45) Masculinity and Femininity (0:47:30) Self-perception (0:48:50) Being grateful (0:49:50) Listening to her inner child (0:50:50) Writing a book (0:52:56) The writing process (0:54:08) Parting words (0:54:55) Fleche Love on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flechelove/ Fleche Love on Twitter: https://twitter.com/fleche_love Fleche Love on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/flechelove Fleche Love on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Flecheloveofficial/ Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld

Interview with John Hare: Burrows Forge (Blacksmith/Falconer) In this episode, I speak with John Hare of Burrows Forge. John is a blacksmith, falconer, bee-keeper and cigar aficionado! John describes the intimate details of his past, how he overcame challenges in his life, and why he pursued his passions. Burrows Forge is also on Twitch, so make sure to check out the links below! Join Julie’s World for additional content! Go to https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld Burrows Forge Twitch channel and intro (0:00:20) Sharing hobbies with people online (0:02:07) Where John lives and where he has lived (0:03:34) John’s former employment (0:04:11) Optimism after getting laid off (0:06:55) Talking about blacksmithing and ADHD (0:10:05) The support of the community on Twitch (0:14:14) Streaming setup and purpose (0:17:26) Managing ADHD (0:20:21) Talking video games (0:24:40) How John discovered falconry (0:26:56) How to get licensed in falconry (0:30:19) Caring for a hawk (0:33:10) Deciding when to release a bird (0:34:32) Between Blacksmithing and Falconry, which is easier to learn? (0:35:39) Discussing falconry with his wife (0:38:28) John’s connection with nature (0:39:54) Producing honey and growing hives (0:42:00) Being homeless as a kid (0:42:25) Living in Maui (0:44:50) How John’s past influences him today (0:48:11) Inspiring others (0:51:08) Discussing masculinity, toughness and softness (0:52:26) Anybody can do anything (0:55:48) John’s favorite cigar (0:59:03) Burrows Forge on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/burrowsforge Burrows Forge on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/burrowsforge/ Burrows Forge on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Burrowsforge Visit Planet B612 on the web: http://planetb612.fm/ Follow Planet B612 on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlanetB612fm Support Planet B612 on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/juliesworld