In this podcast, six different researchers share what motivated them to pursue their studies. The beginning of each of these journeys look different — a gentle push from a friend, a role model to aspire after, or even a crush that happened to be working in the lab. The common thread, though, is a flame that was carried on by a long-lasting curiosity. Learn about these unique research topics and the first step that started the journey for each of the researchers in today’s episode.


Episode clips from

Episode 23
Witches, ghosts, and pesky high schoolers; polishing-up your legend detector, with Dr. Jeannie Thomas

Episode 17
Don't touch my hive! Honey bees and killer hornets with Dr. Joe Wilson

Episode 5
Earthquakes on the wasatch, with Dr. Alexis Ault

Episode 53
Spiders and silkworms and hagfish, oh my! Justin Jones on spider silk research at USU

Episode 35
Horses & Veterans; judgement free help in the therapy arena with, Judy Smith

Episode 57
Dust. Janice Brahney explains how synthetic materials are driven into a natural phenomenon