Best Knowledge On The Rift Podcasts (2025)

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Rocks and Rules, Putting Things in Order (Re-Release #1) 34:36

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11d ago34:36

34:36

In this episode of Planet Geo, we share some exciting updates as Chris steps back a bit. Don’t worry; Chris will still join us regularly, but you'll also be hearing more often from fantastic guests like Dr. Rachel Phillips, Dr. Mike Ackerson, and Dr. Josh Davies. We’re diving deep into the geoscience topics we all love and bringing you insightful i…

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The Length of Day 2.5 Billion Years Ago - BIFs, Milankovitch, and Geochron with Dr. Josh Davies 1:25:27

18d ago1:25:27

1:25:27

Join us as we dive into an awe-inspiring chat with Dr. Josh Davies – an expert in high-precision geochronology! Josh and Jesse go way back to their University of Alberta days, and in this episode, they unravel a groundbreaking project involving banded iron formations. Together, they explore how these ancient rocks bring to light the Earth's history…

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What is a Continent? Part 1 - The Composition 38:17

25d ago38:17

38:17

In this episode, we dive deep into the composition and formation of the continental crust! We explore the tough questions about what makes up our continents, debunking some rudimentary class teachings and revealing the misunderstandings in our current knowledge! But don't worry—it’s not all sedimentary! We also ponder the role of basalt and Granite…

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Stories in Stone - with David Williams 57:49

1M ago57:49

57:49

Ready to rock your buildings with some fascinating geology tales? Join us as we chat with the amazing David B. Williams, author of 'Stories in Stone.' David shares his insights on the hidden geological marvels in urban landscapes and the history behind some iconic building stones. From Seattle's local quarries to Chicago's memorable marbles, this e…

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From Rifts To Rifles - The Regional Geology of the Battle of the Gettysburg 39:04

1M ago39:04

39:04

Join us in this action-packed final episode of our Gettysburg series as we uncover the rock-solid weathering patterns that shaped one of the most famous battles in history! Standing on the historic battleground, you'll see how two supercontinent formation and breakup events have influenced the topography and geology of Gettysburg. Discover the impa…

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Flash Floods 48:47

2M ago48:47

48:47

Join us for a deep dive into the world of flash floods in this exciting episode! Navigate the rapid waters of this intense topic with Chris and Jesse, as we unravel the captivating geoscience behind these dramatic events. From the devastating impacts of flash floods to the intricate balance of soil, vegetation, and slope, we leave no stone unturned…

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Calderas and Confederates - The Geology of South Mountain and the Gettysburg Campaign 33:55

2M ago33:55

33:55

In this action-packed episode of our Gettysburg Geology series, we dig deep into the dynamic geological history of South Mountain. Discover how this towering terrain played a pivotal role in the Battle of Gettysburg, from offering a sneaky passage for the Confederates to serving as a dramatic retreat route. We explore the fascinating world of fault…

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Eruptions and Extinctions - The Geology of the Gettysburg Sill 38:56

2M ago38:56

38:56

In this episode of our visual podcast series, journey back to the battlefields of Gettysburg to unearth the geological forces that played a pivotal role in history. Dive deep with Herr Professor Dr. Reimink and Chris Bolhuis as they explore the York Haven Sill and Rossville Dykes, parts of the massive Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP). Disc…

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Capitol Curiosities - Fanglomerate and the Gettysburg Basin 31:04

2M ago31:04

31:04

Join us on a rockin' journey as we explore the fascinating tale of Potomac Marble and its role in rebuilding the US Capitol after the War of 1812. From the emotional experience of visiting ancient quarry sites to the intricate details of fanglomerates and alluvial fans, we uncover the geology behind this historically significant stone. Whether you'…

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Magnetic Sand and Other Listener Questions 53:50

2M ago53:50

53:50

Join Chris and Jesse as they dive deep into your rock-solid questions! From magnetic sands on Lake Michigan's dunes to the ancient mysteries of plate tectonics, nowhere on Earth (or beyond) is safe from their geological curiosity. Ever wondered who names minerals or how to remember those complicated mineral formula? Tune in to this special listener…

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Sasquatch Eruptions 35:29

3M ago35:29

35:29

Join us for a rockin' episode where we dive into the explosive world of Yellowstone’s hydrothermal activity! Chris and Jesse chat about the intriguing 'Sasquatch eruptions'—no, not Bigfoot, but sudden hydrothermal explosions that have scientists buzzing. From close encounters with geysers to the epic history behind Black Diamond Pool, we break down…

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Landslides and Lidar - Dr. Phillip Prince @Geomodels 1:04:08

3M ago1:04:08

1:04:08

Get ready to dig deep into geology with the one and only Dr. Philip Prince! Join su as we rock out with discussions on the game-changing one-meter resolution lidar, geomorphology, landslides, and the captivating landscapes of the Appalachians. Learn about Philip's aha moments in geology, his journey from a trout fishing enthusiast to a top-notch ge…

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Silent Sculptors - The Stones Shaping Gettysburg's Battlefield 35:14

3M ago35:14

35:14

In this exciting episode of our series on Gettysburg's geology, we dive deep into the Gettysburg Basin to uncover how the rocks beneath the famous battlefield shaped the events of history. From the famous McPherson's Ridge to the subtle hills that played crucial roles, discover how changes in rock types have left their mark. Join us as we zoom in o…

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America's Oldest Rocks - Part 2 - The Unveil 44:57

3M ago44:57

44:57

In this episode, we dive back into the bedrock of America to reveal which state holds the crown for the oldest rocks in the U.S.! Join us as we unravel the mysteries of ancient metamorphic formations. From the Morton Gneisses in Minnesota, to the Wyoming craton out West, and ending in Upper Michigan, you'll find out what the oldest rocks are, and h…

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Rift, Rock, and Revolution - The Beginnings of the Gettysburg Basin 35:39

4M ago35:39

35:39

Join us as we explore the towering history of ancient mountain ranges, delve into the mysteries of the Appalachian Mountains, and break down the geological story behind the Gettysburg region. From the immense rift basins on the East Coast to the intricate details of the Allegheny Orogeny, this episode promises a thrilling ride through Earth's dynam…

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America's Oldest Rock - Part 1 58:40

4M ago58:40

58:40

What is the oldest rock you can stand on in the United States? As the title of Frost et al., 2025 says, it is a simple question with a complex answer. In this episode, we journey to the north-central United States, where you'll find some of the oldest rocks in North America. Join us as we go through the candidate locations and dive real deep into t…

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The Geology of the Battle of Gettysburg - A PlanetGeo Field Trip 1:37:01

4M ago1:37:01

1:37:01

Rockstars! Welcome to our first-ever Planet Geo field trip! Join us as we hit the road to Gettysburg and dig deep into the geology that shaped one of the most pivotal battles of the American Civil War. From the rocks that dictated troop movements to the geomorphology of battlefield ridges, we're taking you on an epic journey. Discover how ancient s…

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The White Cliffs of Dover - Nature's Chalkboard 49:42

4M ago49:42

49:42

Welcome to another thrilling episode of PlanetGeo! In this episode, we dive deep into the jaw-dropping geology of the White Cliffs of Dover. We explore the formation and significance of chalk, a rock star in the geologic world. Learn about its formation during the late Cretaceous period, its economic uses, and its pivotal role as an aquifer system …

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Of Stones And Startups: A Geoscience Transformation? 46:43

5M ago46:43

46:43

Join us as we explore the (lack of) intersection of geoscience and entrepreneurship. In this engaging discussion, we delve into the importance of business acumen in geological sciences, but also highlight the cultural obstacles within the field. We share personal insights and experiences while discussing how educators and institutions can better pr…

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The Great River - Boyce Upholt 54:10

5M ago54:10

54:10

In this exciting episode, we dive deep into the natural and geological wonders of the Mississippi River with Boyce Upholt, author of 'The Great River.' Join us as we unravel the mysteries and magnificence of this iconic waterway, exploring its historical, ecological, and engineering marvels. Boyce shares his personal journey, the challenges of writ…

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Blue Gold? The Geology of Cobalt 49:56

5M ago49:56

49:56

Join us as we dig deep into the world of cobalt! This episode covers everything from the explosive growth in cobalt demand to the intriguing geology behind this critical element. We traverse through magmatic, sedimentary, and laterite cobalt deposits, touching on the societal and environmental issues tied to cobalt mining. Fun and intriguing, this …

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Think Like a Rock Star - It's a Good Time to Be a Geologist 44:11

5M ago44:11

44:11

Join us as we delve into a thought-provoking discussion on whether geologists truly think differently. From contemplating the scale of tectonic plates to grappling with deep time and dealing with complex, data-rich scenarios, this episode digs deep into the elements that shape a geologist's unique perspective. Featuring intriguing anecdotes, our cl…

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Caldera Chronicles - Unzipping the Mysteries of Long Valley With Dr. Andy Calvert 1:04:24

6M ago1:04:24

1:04:24

Join us in this explosive episode as we dive deep into the hot topics of Long Valley Caldera with knowledgeable volcanologist Dr. Andy Calvert! Get ready for a magmaficent discussion on one of the most studied volcanic regions in the world. From discovering the volcanic history and understanding the geothermal wonders, to deciphering the processes …

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The Boiling Point - Decoding Long Valley Caldera's Volcanic Future 36:17

6M ago36:17

36:17

Discover the uplift-ing story of Long Valley Caldera! 🌋 In this riveting episode, we dig deep into tremors and uplift, unraveling the saga of resurgence domes and the seismic swarms shaking up the geoscience world. From the fascinating formation and swelling of the dome to the debate between magma intrusion and second boiling, we explore the cuttin…

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Heat Without the Show - Long Valley's Hydrothermal System 36:07

6M ago36:07

36:07

Join us as we dig deep into the steaming secrets of Long Valley Caldera's hydrothermal activities! We discuss the unique geological features that make Long Valley Caldera a hotbed of hydrothermal phenomena, from hot springs and fumaroles to the mysterious lack of geysers. Learn about the dynamic interplay of magma, groundwater, and the geothermal p…

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The Geological Fruit Fly - The Bishop Tuff and Long Valley Caldera Eruption 37:40

6M ago37:40

37:40

Join us as we dig into the hot (and viscous!) topic of the Long Valley Caldera's explosive history. 🪨 From the dramatic six-day eruption that shaped this geological wonder to the intricate details of the Bishop Tuff, you'll get a front-row seat to the science behind these monumental volcanic events. Discover how a simple basalt intrusion led to a m…

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The Basalt Before the Blast - The Leadup to The Long Valley Caldera 33:03

6M ago33:03

33:03

Join us as we embark on a volcanic journey delving deep into the fiery mechanics of the Long Valley Caldera. In this episode, we dissect the intricate process of mantle-derived basalt and its trans-crustal journey leading to magmatic differentiation and colossal eruptions. We explore the evolution of magma, touching on essential principles like par…

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Between a Rock and a Hot Place: Long Valley's Tectonic Tale 30:22

7M ago30:22

30:22

Join us as we hack our way through the geological 'weeds' of the Long Valley Caldera! In today's episode, we simplify complex tectonic interactions, explaining how a perfect storm of tectonics led to one of Earth's largest volcanic eruptions. Whether you're a geology novice or a seasoned expert, you'll discover the role of trans-tension, decompress…

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Evolution of Eruption - Intro to the Long Valley Caldera 28:57

7M ago28:57

28:57

In this introductory episode, we plunge into the depths of the Long Valley Caldera's explosive history! 🌋 Join us as we unravel the volcanic secrets behind one of the biggest eruptions of the last 2 million years. From the initial mantle melting to the mind-blowing eruption 767,000 years ago, discover how this geological marvel evolved. Dive into t…

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How to Get Hired - CEO Lindsey Schultz 1:15:00

7M ago1:15:00

1:15:00

In this episode of Planet Geo, we speak with Lindsey Schultz, the CEO of MRC Recruiting, a leading recruitment agency in the mining sector. The discussion explores the evolving landscape of geoscience and mining careers, emphasizing the significant demand for geologists and the factors impacting employability. Lindsey shares personal anecdotes and …

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The Answers Are in the Rocks - It's a Good Time to Be a Geologist 42:26

7M ago42:26

42:26

In this rock-solid episode, we dive into Part 3 of their exciting geology series! 🪨 We discuss why it's a golden age to be a geologist, focusing on how the answers to many of today's challenges are literally set in stone. From contact metamorphism to the fascinating world of serpentinites, we explore how these natural processes are crucial in addre…

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Induced Earthquakes, Fracking, and the Future of the Subsurface with Dr. Katie Smye 1:16:06

8M ago1:16:06

1:16:06

Join us for an exciting episode as we dive deep into the world beneath our feet with Dr. Katie Smye, a renowned research associate professor at the University of Texas at Austin. In this interview, Dr. Smye takes us on a full journey through the intricacies of fracking, induced seismicity, and the oil industry. Learn how modern drilling technologie…

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The Future Lies At Depth - It's a Good Time to be a Geologist 47:15

8M ago47:15

47:15

In this episode of Planet Geo, Jesse and Chris delve into why now is an exhilarating time to be a geologist. They explore the importance of understanding what's beneath our feet—literally—and its implications for everything from finding deeper, smaller, and more costly geothermal energy sources to creating metamorphic reactions. There's emphasis on…

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The Geology of Petoskey Stones 46:41

8M ago46:41

46:41

Join us as we dive deep into the world of Petoskey Stones, Michigan’s state fossil! 🌊 In this episode, Chris and Dr. Jesse explore the beautiful, fossilized coral known as Petoskey Stones. Discover how these unique stones, beloved by collectors, tell a story of ancient tropical seas and glacial movements. Learn about their formation, significance, …

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Buy Low, Sell High - It's a Good Time to Be a Geoscientist 38:17

8M ago38:17

38:17

It's a good time to Buy Geoscience! Join Chris and Jesse as they kick off an exciting series on why it's a great time to be a geoscientist! They dive into enrollment trends, industry demands, and the bright future ahead for those passionate about rocks and the Earth. The discussion covers the evolving perception of geosciences, the decline in geosc…

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Navigating Rocks - Field Geology and the Evolving Geosciences 36:46

9M ago36:46

36:46

Join us as we tackle the rocky topic of field geology's relevance in today's world, sparked by a listener question from Taylor. We delve deep into whether mapping rocks and fieldwork are becoming outdated or if they still hold significant value. Chris and Jesse share personal anecdotes, debate the evolving landscape of geoscience education, and hig…

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Geology of Puddingstone 44:26

9M ago44:26

44:26

In this exciting episode of Planet Geo, Chris and Jesse dive deep into the fascinating world of pudding stones! From the picturesque Hertfordshire pudding stones in England to the Roxbury conglomerate in Massachusetts, and finally the scientifically wondrous Lorraine Quartzite pudding stone abundant in Michigan. They discuss the unique geological s…

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Gaia - The Earth As a System with Dean Lee Kump 57:17

9M ago57:17

57:17

In this episode of Planet Geo, hosts Jesse and Chris have an in-depth conversation with Dr. Lee Kump, Dean of the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences at Penn State. In a chat that's more exciting than discovering a trilobite fossil, they explore Lee's profound career journey, paper citations thick enough to bury any rock hound, and his transition…

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Geology's Ologies 29:28

9M ago29:28

29:28

In this episode, Chris and Jesse delve into the various 'ologies' within geology, sparked by a listener question regarding the differences between geology and geography. The discussion explores the evolution and rebranding of geology departments, their experiences with different specializations, and the significance of courses like mineralogy and p…

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Are These Earth's Oldest Rocks? 1:08:23

9M ago1:08:23

1:08:23

Get ready to dig deep into the geological weeds with Dr. Jesse Reimink and Chris Bolhuis as they tackle the rock-solid debate about Earth's oldest rocks! Is the Ujaraaluk unit in Northern Quebec truly 4.25 billion years old? Or is it just a rocky mix-up? We meticulously break down isotope geochemistry, hydrothermal beauties, and field observations.…

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The Hit and Run Rockies - With Professor Basil Tikoff 1:20:45

10M ago1:20:45

1:20:45

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Basil Tikoff, a geoscience professor at the University of Wisconsin. We dive deep into the intriguing and controversial 'hit and run' model of the Rocky Mountains formation. From structural geology to the battle of geological models, this episode covers groundbreaking research, debates in the geologic…

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Idaho to Iceland - Shawn Willsey 1:07:42

10M ago1:07:42

1:07:42

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Shawn Willsey to explore his journey as a geologist and educator. We discuss his impactful YouTube channel, where he brings the wonders of geology to a broad audience, how COVID-19 influenced his educational outreach, and delve into his contributions to seminal geology books like 'Geology Underfoot in …

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Earth's Oldest Sediments - The Isua Supracrustal Belt 42:45

10M ago42:45

42:45

Hold onto your rock hammers, folks! 📉🌎 In this episode, we're peeling back the layers (pun intended) of the Isua Greenstone Belt in Southwest Greenland. Tune in as we dive into debates about changing the name of geology classes, virtual Fight Clubs, and the complexities of Earth's ancient rocks. Could sediments, pillow basalts, and potential signs …

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The Geology of Quartz 56:53

10M ago56:53

56:53

Quartz crystals are often the first example of minerals that people see, and are a source of inspiration for many a young geologist. In this episode, we delve into a comprehensive discussion about quartz, a major rock-forming mineral characterized by its durability and prevalent in various geological environments. Key topics include the physical pr…

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Our Past Favorites #8 - Plants, Meanders, and How to Read a Geoscience Paper 37:38

11M ago37:38

37:38

Here is a link to the paper we discuss in this episode: In this episode, we talk about meandering streams. Why don't rivers flow in straight paths? As soon as a river flattens out, it begins to meander. It’s these meanders that manage the energy of the water. How? They really do 2 things: 1- they increase the resistance (physics) and 2- they decrea…

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Our Past Favorites #7 - Not All Who Meander Are Lost 42:06

11M ago42:06

42:06

In this episode of Planet Geo, we delve into the fascinating world of meandering streams. Join Dr. Jesse Reimink and Chris Bolhuis as they reminisce about their favorite episodes and explore the dynamics of meandering rivers. We discuss why they’re one of our favorite topics, from the patterns in geology to the intricate details of stream meanders.…

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Our Past Favorites #6 - The Geology of Wine with Brenna Quigley 1:02:00

11M ago1:02:00

1:02:00

n this holiday re-release episode of Planet Geo, we revisit our exciting conversation with Brenna Quigley, a geologist turned wine consultant and terroir expert. We discuss her unique career trajectory, the fascinating intersection of geology and wine, and the concept of terroir. Brenna shares insights into her work, how geology influences vineyard…

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Our Past Favorites #5 - Geology and National Defense with Dr. Stefanie Tompkins 49:58

11M ago49:58

49:58

In this episode of PlanetGeo, we chat with Dr. Stefanie Tompkins, the director of DARPA, about her incredible journey from geologist to leading one of the most innovative research organizations in the world. We discuss everything from her early passion for geology and the unexpected ways it prepared her for a career in national defense, to DARPA's …

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Our Past Favorites #4 - The Geology of Countertops 38:29

12M ago38:29

38:29

In this episode we dive into the fascinating world of countertops, exploring the geology behind the materials commonly used in kitchens and homes. They discuss the different types of rocks, including granite, pegmatite, marble, schist, gneiss, quartzite, and even synthetic options like quartz and engineered stones. With their engaging banter and de…

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Our Past Favorites #3 - The Age of the Earth or, How to Build a Planet 33:09

12M ago33:09

33:09

In this episode of Planet Geo, we dive deep into the fascinating topic of the age of the Earth and how planets form. We talk about why the age of the Earth is estimated to be around 4.55 billion years and the scientific methods behind determining this age, dating back to the 1955 discovery by Claire Patterson. We discuss the processes involved in p…