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Rocks for Jocks

RfJ Media

Welcome to Rocks for Jocks, a Science podcast for everyday people with a focus on Climate and Natural Hazards! Each episode covers a new topic or features insights from guests, including scientists and industry professionals. Whether you're a student, a working professional, or just curious about the world, this podcast has something for you.

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20 episodes
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English

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July 12 · 13 min
Pluto's Surface Podcast
Today I’m reviewing an open-access Comment published in Nature Communications called, “Pluto: dazzling, dynamic, and not so dead” by Perianne E. Johnson & Benjamin Proudfoot. I talked about this comment in a Substack article a few weeks ago so definitely go check that out if you haven’t yet! This video also works as audio-only for the podcast listeners out there. Like this show? Send it to a friend! Hate this show? Send it to an enemy! Link to paper (Nature Communications, open access): https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-72084-6 Image: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pluto-01_Stern_03_Pluto_Color_TXT.jpg Music: 368 by Dyalla
April 25 · 14 min
Japan's Earthquakes, Tsunamis, and Advisories
This week, a 7.4 Magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of northern Japan! This caused shaking, a tiny tsunami, and an advisory about a possible mega-quake. Listen to learn more about what this means for Japan, natural disaster preparation, and earthquake advisories everywhere! Like this episode? Pick one of the following! Subscribe wherever you're listening! Send this episode to a friend or family member! Follow on Substack: https://substack.com/@rocksforjocks Sources: Original article posted on Substack Music: 368 by Dyalla Cover art and earthquake information: USGS AP News article describing impacts and advisories
March 15 · 10 min
Want to Solve Hard Problems? Fund Niche Research.
Why fund research into so many narrow questions far removed from everyday problems? Solving niche science problems expands bounds of human knowledge and makes new breakthroughs possible! In this episode, I walk listeners through a recent article I wrote on this topic posted on Substack. Read along (and subscribe) here: https://rocksforjocks.substack.com/p/want-to-solve-hard-problems-fund Music: 368 by Dyalla
February 17 · 43 min
Stories in Stone with author David B. Williams
In this episode I was lucky enough to discuss the book "Stories in Stone" with the author, David B. Williams! We talk about how geology weaves its way through human history and touch on some highlights from the book, including the Bunker Hill Monument's granite and how Michelangelo got his marble! My substack: https://rocksforjocks.substack.com/?utm_campaign=profile_chips David's website: http://geologywriter.com David's substack: https://streetsmartnaturalist.substack.com/?utm_campaign=profile_chips Music: 368 by Dyalla
Dec 20, 2025 · 36 min
Glacier Recession with Andy Jones, PhD Candidate
Andy's recent paper discussed: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adx9442 Substack: https://substack.com/@rocksforjocks In this episode, I host Andy Jones, a PhD candidate in Geoscience at the University of Wisconsin Madison. We focus on Andy's recently published research in California’s Sierra Nevada, where glaciers are disappearing for the first time in 30,000 years! We cover the formation, recession, and climatic impact of glaciers. Andy also talks about glacier studies in the Tropical Andes, emphasizing the need for climate action. Listen and follow “Rocks for Jocks” on Substack! 00:00 Intro 04:18 Glaciers' Role in Climate Regulation 06:51 California's Disappearing Glaciers 08:39 Historical Context of Expansion and Retreat 20:00 Climate Change and Glacial Response 29:59 Future Research Music: 368 by Dyalla
Nov 16, 2025 · 51 min
Geotech Talks with Marshall Pontrelli, PhD
This month, I bring back Marshall Pontrelli, a fan-favorite former guest and graduate school coworker! We talk about Marshall's research on geotechnical engineering, site response, and earthquake hazard mapping. We also get into Marshall’s thoughts on the peer review process and the application of scientific thinking to broader contexts. Subscribe on Substack: ⁠⁠https://rocksforjocks.substack.com⁠⁠ 00:00 Welcome and Intro 02:01 Marshall's Graduate School Research 08:31 Mexico City Earthquake Study 16:37 Geological Mapping and Hazard Analysis 28:43 Depth to Bedrock, Shear Wave Velocity, and Cone Penetration Tests 41:48 Design-Build vs. Design-Bid-Build 49:29 Reflections on Scientific Thinking Music: 368 by Dyalla
Oct 5, 2025 · 43 min
Seismic Site Effects with Ellie Meyer and Maggie Roberts, PhD Students
Today’s interview is with not one, but TWO researchers from the Tufts Geohazards Research group! I host Maggie Roberts and Ellie Meyer, PhD students learning about how Earthquake shaking waves affect structures at the surface. Maggie and Ellie discuss methodologies using HVSR measurements, the limitations of traditional VS 30 models, and human-reported seismic data. Subscribe on Substack: ⁠https://rocksforjocks.substack.com⁠ 00:00 Welcome Back 04:44 Ground motion Geohazards Research 07:43 Challenges and Progress in Earthquake Research 23:45 HVSR pros and cons 31:34 Human Data in Earthquake Studies 36:43 Future Goals for HVSR Models 40:22 Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Benefits Music: 368 by Dyalla
Jul 14, 2025 · 39 min
Seismicity, Site Response, & Nuclear Weapons with Jeremy Salerno
In this episode of Rocks for Jocks, I reunite with a grad school colleague, Jeremy Salerno! We talk about Jeremy's research on earthquake waves and site response during our time In the Geohazards Research Lab at Tufts University. I worked in the lab for 2 years, where I also overlapped with prior Rocks for Jocks guests, Christina Sanon and Marshall Pontrelli! Jeremy and I talk about detecting seismic activity, monitoring nuclear weapons testing, and his roles working with different companies and defense projects. Rate this podcast 5 stars, and send it to a friend! 00:00 Intro 03:57 Field Work and Data Collection 06:21 Nuclear Monitoring and Seismic Sensors 12:30 Earthquake Waves, Resonance, and Site Response 20:08 Using data for Earthquake Engineering 23:01 Ambient Noise & Soil Vibration Analysis 23:31 Unexpected Earthquakes and Thesis work 29:08 AI in Coding and Professional Use 33:31 Classes and their Impact Music: 368 by Dyalla
Jun 16, 2025 · 49 min
The Science of Podcasts with Sydney DeMets, PhD Candidate
This week, I host Sydney DeMets, PhD candidate at the University of Washington, to talk about her research on podcast networks! We chat about the polarization within podcasting spaces, the influence of moderate shows on bridging political divides, and the gender disparity in podcast hosts and guests. My favorite part was Sydney highlighting how guests spread across different shows in a similar way to the diffusion of viruses! Sydney also gives some podcast recommendations and reflects on potential future research directions. If like this episode, please send it to a friend, and rate it 5 stars on Spotify & Apple Podcasts! 00:00 Intro 04:11 The Influence of Podcasts on Public Opinion 07:28 Methodology and Findings 16:13 Challenges and Surprising Discoveries 36:20 Concerns About Information Veracity 41:26 Future of Podcast Moderation 46:34 Podcast Recommendations Music: 368 by Dyalla Disclaimer: all opinions are our own and not representative of any companies or organizations.
Jun 2, 2025 · 43 min
Planets, Meteorites, & Paleoclimate with Professor Roger Fu
This week, I had the privilege to interview Professor Roger Fu from Harvard's Earth and Planetary Sciences department. We cover planet formation in our early solar system, harvesting samples from meteorites, tectonic plate motion, paleoclimate research, and science funding in Boston! Professor Fu has a really unique perspective from his time studying astronomy in Chile and also leading research projects in university settings. If you like the episode, please subscribe and rate the episode wherever you're listening, and send it to a friend! 00:00 Intro 01:57 Astronomy in Chile 12:38 Planetary Formation 15:21 Meteorites and Magnetic Fields 20:34 Paleoclimate Research 33:04 NASA’s Influence 35:29 Engaging Students and the Public Music: 368 by Dyalla
May 19, 2025 · 54 min
Teaching Comp Sci with David Zabner, PhD Candidate
I host David Zabner, 4th year PhD Candidate at Tufts University to tell me all about his research — improving Computer Science education! I start with an intro about why this subject specifically can be so challenging to teach and learn, then David tells me about his background and different research projects he’s done to improve education at different levels. He emphasizes the importance of interactive and practical learning, comparing it to learning a second language. Enjoy, thanks for listening, and send this episode to a friend! 00:00 Intro & Background 06:15 Learning Theories and Teaching Methods 11:49 Challenges in Computer Science Education 36:31 Impact of Large Language Models 41:08 Future Projects Music: 368 by Dyalla
Apr 28, 2025 · 25 min
Ancient Earth with Amanda Calhoun, PhD Candidate
In this episode, I host Amanda Calhoun, PhD candidate in the Earth and Planetary Sciences program at Harvard! In one project, Amanda uses carbon isotopes to uncover signs of ancient life. In another project, Amanda uses pyrite (fool’s gold!) to understand Earth’s oxygen history. Listen to hear about the history of both our atmosphere and life itself! 00:00 Intro and Overview 02:46 Research Projects Explained 05:41 Fieldwork and Sample Collection 12:35 Goals & Implications of projects 15:27 Origins of Life, Applications, and Environmental Impact 21:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Music: 368 by Dyalla
Apr 14, 2025 · 17 min
Why Science Funding Matters
Today is a solo episode with your host, Alex Chansky! I talk about why I do this show — in addition to some personal reasons, this channel is a great opportunity to make scientific research more accessible and understandable to the public! This is especially important in recent months as research funding cuts are proposed and our country’s top research institutions are cutting people & projects. So why is science funding important? Listen to find out more! 00:00 Why I do this show 01:20 Why Public Understanding of Science matters 05:36 Current Funding Threats 08:51 Long-term Funding cut impacts 15:30 Ask Some Questions Music: 368 by Dyalla
Mar 31, 2025 · 43 min
Water Diplomacy & Uncertainty with Catherine Knox, PhD Candidate
In this week’s episode, I host Catherine Knox, PhD candidate at Tufts University, to discuss water diplomacy and decision-making! We talk about different ways to think about water management, especially when it stretches across multiple boundaries. Catherine goes on to discuss her work on sea-level rise adaptation in Boston and also how decisions can be made under both uncertainty and ambiguity. For example, me saying “I have no idea what to write next in this description” is uncertainty. Saying “this description is funny” is ambiguous. Listen and subscribe for more great jokes! 02:55 Water Diplomacy and Transboundary Water Management 04:04 Sea Level Rise Adaptation Project 11:14 Regional Coordination and Stakeholder Engagement 17:48 Public-Private Partnerships and Model Applications 23:47 Paper 2: Decision Making under Uncertainty & Ambiguity 38:27 Personal Insights and Future Directions Music: 368 by Dyalla
Mar 3, 2025 · 44 min
Mapping Earthquake Hazards with Christina Sanon, PhD Candidate
This week, I reunite with Christina Sanon, a researcher and PhD candidate at Tufts University, to discuss her journey and recent research developments! Christina discusses a recent seminar and her ~groundbreaking~ earthquake research. We also talk about water diplomacy, a recent Maine Earthquake, and the practical applications of Christina’s projects. Subscribe to hear more scientists discuss climate and natural hazards research projects! 00:00 Intro and Water Diplomacy 06:00 PhD Journey and Career Aspirations 16:54 Earthquake Loss Estimation Project 22:40 Understanding Hazard Maps and Soil Amplification 28:14 Real-World Earthquakes and Damage State Probabilities 35:14 Communicating Science Effectively Music: 368 by Dyalla
Feb 17, 2025 · 37 min
Navigating Physical Therapy with Matt Curran
In this episode of Rocks for Jocks, I chat with Dr. Matt Curran, a recent doctorate in physical therapy. Together, we talk through aspects of the physical therapy field, including the differences between hospital and outpatient settings, nerve repair, and cadaver dissections. Matt shares what it’s like working with patients of different age groups, his research on post-stroke rehabilitation, and his transition into home care. If you like the episode, please subscribe and share it with a friend! 00:00 Intro and Matt's Journey 09:16 Cadaver Dissections and Unique Cases 21:38 Clinical Experiences and Working in Hospitals 26:45 Transition to Home Care 35:09 Reflections and Advice for Upcoming PTs
Feb 3, 2025 · 40 min
Dissecting Medical School with Aidan Bailey
I welcome back Aidan Bailey, a close friend and first-year MD/PhD student at Wayne State University! Aidan shares his experiences in medical school, reflecting on his study strategies, dissecting cadavers, and balancing extensive coursework. He discusses the structure and goals of the MD/PhD program, the value of both degrees, & his future research plans. Our conversation also touches on life in Detroit, highlighting its vibrant culture and sports! 00:00 Intro and Guest Background 01:20 Med School Journey Begins 08:32 Anatomy Lab and Clinical Skills 15:38 Favorite Professors & Classes 18:50 Program Structure and Classmates 30:29 Choosing the Right Advisor 32:30 Benefits of an MD-PhD 37:40 Life in Detroit Disclaimer: all opinions are our own and not representative of any companies or organizations. Music: 368 by Dyalla
Jan 20, 2025 · 27 min
2025 Los Angeles Wildfires with Dr. Peter Sousounis
I interview Peter Sousounis, an atmospheric scientist who now works as a climate and catastrophe modeling consultant. We discuss the recent January 2025 Los Angeles, California Wildfires, global catastrophe modeling, and the rising impacts of secondary perils (like smoke damage). Peter explains the factors contributing to winter wildfires in California and highlights the broader implications on human health and insurance in the region. 00:53 Introducing Dr. Peter Sousounis 04:36 Catastrophe Modeling 08:46 Winter Wildfires 14:48 Mitigate and Prepare 22:15 Future Outlook Blog post discussed: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/peter-sousounis-b7b19133_la-wildfires-initial-thoughts-activity-7285042301372911617-VTRP?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop Disclaimer: all opinions are our own and not representative of any companies or organizations. Music: 368 by Dyalla. Photo: US Forest Service photo by Jason Benton/ Captain, SRF Engine 341. Accessed using Wikimedia. Photo Link: https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:2025_Southern_California_fires_and_the_United_States_Forest_Service_(USFS)_-_Eaton_Fire_Initial_Attack_(54263489694).jpg&oldid=984491561
Jan 6, 2025 · 37 min
Climate History using ocean cores with Dr. Danielle LeBlanc
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Danielle LeBlanc, a researcher at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Danielle and I discuss her journey from studying petroleum engineering to her PhD research on ocean sediments. Danielle explains why she studies sediment components to understand Earth's climate history, ice sheet dynamics, and ice-rafted debris. She also talks about the challenges of her research and offers advice for rising scientists. If you like this episode, please subscribe and share it with friends! 04:30 Paleoclimate Research 08:14 Isotopes Explained 14:59 Laurentide Ice Sheet 26:42 Career Reflections and advice 32:34 Opportunities for Future Scientists Note: the cosmic flux consists of high-energy particles originating from both our sun and other sources in space. Danielle also discusses "sun rays," which she uses here to refer to ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet rays consist of lower energy particles relative to cosmic rays (or radiation), which consist of higher energy particles. Music: 368 by Dyalla Disclaimer: all opinions are our own and not representative of any companies or organizations.
Dec 23, 2024 · 14 min
Climate Change: Natural Cycles vs. Human Impacts
In this episode of Rocks for Jocks, I explore the frequently asked question: “isn't the climate always changing?”. I break down the components of climate change, distinguishing between natural cycles and human-caused impacts. Learn about solar radiation, greenhouse gases, airborne particles, climate feedbacks, and tipping points! Very fun! I also go into some details about Earth's orbital patterns, using animations from NASA to help understand long-term climate trends. Listen and subscribe for an in-depth discussion on driving our planet's climate! 00:00 Intro 01:29 Climate Forcings 03:24 Feedbacks and Tipping Points 04:38 Solar Radiation 06:59 Orbital changes 12:08 Human impacts Sources: https://climate.nasa.gov/nasa_science/science/ https://science.nasa.gov/science-research/earth-science/milankovitch-orbital-cycles-and-their-role-in-earths-climate/ ⁠https://science.nasa.gov/science-research/earth-science/why-milankovitch-orbital-cycles-cant-explain-earths-current-warming/⁠ http://www.climatedata.info/proxies/ice-cores/ Cover art: https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=File:Ocean_world_Earth.jpg&oldid=946589202

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