The Big Blue Rock Pod

Mystery Science Geology 2025: Netflix's La Palma Feb 28, 2025

Matt, Sarah, and Doug breakdown the 2024 television mini-series La Palma! They discuss the plot of the show, geologic character stereotypes, geologic details right and wrong, the geology of the Canary Islands, general geology movie cheesiness, and much more!

Ep. 38: 2025 Goals: Rock solid or shaky ground Jan 29, 2025

Matt gets philosophical about time management and Sarah gets anxious. Doug's just trying to get through the website redo.

Ep. 37: Rock, Paper, Data Dec 19, 2024

Matt, Sarah, and Doug talk about data with KGSers Cheyenne Hohman and Liz Adams. They dig into KGS history and mission, saving data and maps from threats, progress of storage and dissemination, data curation, data management, metadata (ugh!), UKnowledge, and the future of data storage for KGS.

Ep. 36: Dating profile: Earth, 4.567 billion Nov 22, 2024

"I'm a 4.567 billion-year-old planet with a rich history, constantly evolving, and always open to new experiences. You should leave a message if you like cheese and would like to discuss it further..."

This month Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss it further with UK Earth and Environmental Science professor Dave Moecher. Take a listen to their chat about the age of the Earth, the oldest rocks on earth, meteorites, petro-tectonics, terrane orogens, radiometric dating, zircons, and much more!

Ep. 35: Big BOO! Rock Pod Oct 29, 2024

This Halloween, step into Kentucky's spooky side with Matt, Sarah, and Doug as they explore eerie place names, reveal the surprising history of Transylvania, and uncover the haunting tale of Floyd Collins – the legendary cave explorer whose fateful journey into the depths became one of the state's most gripping stories.

Ep. 34: Bourbon and Geology (encore) Sep 26, 2024

September is National Bourbon Heritage Month and it's a celebration of bourbon as America's "Native Spirit". Check out one of our favorite episodes, Bourbon and Geology, where we discuss the link between Kentucky geology and all things bourbon. Fun fact, the episode's guest, Mike McGlue, is now the new Director of the Kentucky Geological Survey and the Kentucky State Geologist.

Ep. 33: Springs, Sinks, and a Big Blue Hole: McConnell Springs Revisited Aug 28, 2024

In case you lost your old CD or iTouch, Matt, Sarah, and Doug bring back to life an OLD KyGeocast that is a guided tour of Lexington’s McConnell Springs. McConnell Springs is a city park near downtown Lexington famous for its exposure of karst features such as springs and caves, but also as the founding site of the city.

Ep. 32: Going with the flow: Tobin on hydro Jul 19, 2024

Matt, Sarah, and Doug talk to KGS geologist Ben Tobin about all things hydrology. They discuss karst hydrogeology, the water cycle, dye tracing, water usage, integrated hydrologic modeling, the National Cave and Karst Research Institute, water data dissemination, student mentoring, climate change, and much more!

Ep. 31: Utah-kin' to me? Matt at AASG Jun 28, 2024

Matt, Sarah, and Doug talk about KGS summer activities including the Potter Internship, an Appalachian Karst Hydrogeology Workshop, and participation in the Association of American State Geologists meeting in Utah. They discuss all things state surveys, the first female state geologist, Utah geology, field trips, Snowbird, seismic base isolators, landslides, and much more!

Ep. 30: Critical minerals are so hot right now Jun 03, 2024

Matt, Sarah, and Doug sit down with KGS carbonate and mineral geologist Gina Lukoczki about carbonate petrology, critical minerals, rare earth elements (REEs), tools to assess REEs, the KY fluorspar district, rotten dikes, renewed interest in KGS core, the KGS Mineral Resources Information Map, and much more!

Ep. 29: Unstable Ground: Exploring Engineering Geology Apr 26, 2024

Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss all things engineering geology with UK Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences professor Sarah Johnson. They talk about engineering geology expertise, site investigations, geology-engineer jokes, terminology for geologists and engineers, engineering geology training, landslides, and the motivation for more applied geology.

Ep. 28: Rise and Brine Mar 25, 2024

Matt, Sarah, and Doug talk with KGS geologist Marty Parris about hydrocarbon reservoir geochemistry, water and rock interactions, brines, carbon storage, Kentucky’s orphaned oil and gas wells and much more!

Ep. 27: Ask Us Anything: Volume II Feb 28, 2024

Matt, Sarah, and Doug answer questions submitted from listeners, members of the general public, and attendees at the KGS Open House. The trio discusses the Findlay Arch, Kyrock, lack of dinosaur bones in Kentucky, oldest specimen in the KGS lobby, quicksand, world water total, cool places to hike, and more!

Ep. 26: Between a Rock and A Hard Cover: Our Favorite Geology Books Jan 31, 2024

Matt, Sarah, and Doug talk about their favorite geology books! Don’t fear, these aren’t the hard-core, in-depth science text books you might think. You will be surprised at what is discussed and hopefully enjoy their take on books that connect to careers, sharing ideas, and a general passion for earth science.

Ep. 25: Arches, We Know You Love Em Dec 20, 2023

Matt, Sarah, and Doug talk with KGS geologic mapper Steve Martin about all things natural rock arches! They discuss the difference between arches and natural bridges, arches around the world, evolution of arch formation, fractures, freeze-thaw, arch openings, measuring arch spans, monitoring arch behavior, arches in Kentucky, and much more!

View the KGS map of publicly accessible KY arches.

Ep. 24: Let’s get geochemical Nov 30, 2023

Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss all things geochemistry with UK Earth and Environmental Sciences professor Andrea Erhardt. The trio tackles the importance of geochemistry to our understanding earth processes, the atmosphere, and other planets. Dr. Erhardt takes them through a wide-range of topics including geochemical spheres, high and low-temp geochemistry, chemical weathering, paleo climates, mineral precipitation, the dolomite problem, geochemical environments, pH, acid mine drainage, water contamination, eutrophication, and much more!

Ep. 23: October Conglomerate Oct 31, 2023

Matt, Sarah, and Doug are catching up on a busy October at KGS with a conglomerate of topics. There is no guest this month but we summarize the successful KGS Earth Science Open House, KGS’s participation at the Geological Society of America Annual Meeting in Pittsburgh, and Matt’s trip to Sri Lanka.

Ep. 22: Scientists or Philosophers. Who can ask more questions? Sep 28, 2023

Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss the philosophy of science with UK professor Julia Bursten. They talk about the foundations of science, purpose of science, theories, truth, epistemology, misinformation, classification in science, philosophy of geology and much more!

Ep. 21: A Slick Conversation About Petroleum Geology Aug 30, 2023

Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss petroleum geology with KGS geologist Dave Harris. They talk about the basics of hydrocarbons, source rocks vs reservoir rocks, structural traps, oil and gas producing areas in Kentucky, unconventional reservoirs, KGS oil and gas data services, Dave’s retirement and much more!

Ep. 20: Landslides are not bringing us down Jul 27, 2023

It's a game of musical chairs on this episode of the BBRP. KGS landslides expert Matt moves into the guest chair, while Doug and newcomer Rebekah co-host the episode. We discuss how Matt started researching landslides, the types and causes of landslides, what landslide research looks like at KGS and nationally, landslides related to the July 2022 eastern Kentucky floods, Matt's bad-fitting suits, crashing drones, and more.

Ep. 19: Hello! Nice to Meteorite You Jun 28, 2023

Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss all things meteorites with KGS geologist and current graduate student Ethan Davis. We get into differences among space rocks, planet evolution, impact craters around the world, Chicxulub mysteries, "meteorwrongs", meteorite composition, meteorites in Kentucky, the newest meteorite found in Kentucky, and much more!

Ep. 18: Kentucky Cooperative Extension -- more than free soil testing May 26, 2023

Matt, Doug, and Sarah talk about everything extension with UK Professor Brad Lee, from soil and water quality to dog poop and lawn care. We also explore the role of extension in the University’s land grant mission and UK Extension’s environmental and educational services.

This week’s top takeaway? Check out the soil tests available from your local county extension office. Find the office online at https://extension.ca.uky.edu/county, or just google it.

Ep. 17: Schist Geologists Say Apr 27, 2023

Matt, Sarah, and Doug have a lively discussion about geology jargon, odd and old geoscience concepts, and weird terminology that geologists love to use. KGS geologist Meredith Swallom is the guest and helps us decipher rocks vs. minerals, lithification, unconformities, how awesome (and outdated) graywacke is, accretionary wedges, and much more!

Ep. 16: Exploring Cumberland Gap Mar 31, 2023

"I'm just gonna to go ahead and say it. I love Cumberland Gap."

Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss all things Cumberland Gap National Historical Park! KGS geologist William Andrews is our guest and we get into the park history, geologic setting, unique park features, Ridge Trail, rodents in cabins, Pinnacle Overlook, Hensley Settlement, the Tunnel, the first geology field camp, and much more!

Ep. 15: Unpacking Science Communication Feb 28, 2023

Matt, Sarah, and Doug unpack all things science communication! We talk with Dr. Sarah Vos from UK Department of Health Management and Policy and the Director of Undergraduate Research in the College of Public Health. We discuss communication spanning many scientific disciplines, bridging the gap between science and the public, disaster communication, getting your message to stick, building trust, and why it all matters!

About our guest:

Sarah C. Vos, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the Department of Health Management and Policy and the Director of Undergraduate Research in the College of Public Health at the University of Kentucky. Her research explores how public health organizations can use social media and other short message systems to improve health outcomes, particularly during a public health crisis. Her work has been published in Cancer Control, Health Security, Risk Analysis, and the Journal of Health Communication. In her free time, she likes to run, hike, and watch birds.

Ep. 14: Thinking About Climate Science Feb 01, 2023

Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss all things climate science with Dr. Alice Turkington, geography professor at the University of Kentucky. We get into climate terminology, climate change indicators, extreme events, climate change education, and much more!

Dr. Alice Turkington is an associate professor of physical geography with affiliations in environmental and sustainability studies and historic preservation at the University of Kentucky. A native of Northern Ireland, she has lived in Kentucky since 2001. Dr. Turkington holds both an BA and PhD in Geography from Queens University of Belfast. Her doctoral and postdoctoral research examined the breakdown of rock in deserts and conservation of European cultural stone and monuments. She has worked in diverse global landscapes including the Australian outback, volcanic regions of New Zealand, high Arctic glaciers, and the national parks of the Southwestern United States. Her research focuses on geomorphology, examining the control rock weathering exerts on landform and landscape evolution and the role microclimates play in forcing rock decay. Dr. Turkington has taught courses on climate change at the University of Kentucky for 20 years. This year, she will offer a freshman course, Global Climate Change, and several upper division undergraduate courses, including Science and Policy of Climate Change and Rising Seas: Our Changing Coastline.

Ep. 13: Ask Us Anything? Dec 19, 2022

For our lucky 13th episode and to mark the end of the year, Matt, Sarah, and Doug answer your geology questions! Listen to our answers to your questions on the KGS mission, unique geologic places in Kentucky, innovation, social media, oil and gas, and more. We'll be doing this again, so please contact us at kgsmail@uky.edu with your pressing questions about geology. Wishing all of our listeners a great holiday season and a happy New Year!

Ep. 12: Earthquakes! Nov 29, 2022

Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss earthquakes with KGS geophysicist Seth Carpenter. Tune is as they talk about global and regional activity, mystery of Kentucky’s biggest quake, frog seismometers, and earthquake hazard and risk. And check out our webpage for more information about earthquakes, earthquake hazards, and to view the Kentucky Seismic Network recordings: www.uky.edu/KGS/earthquake/.

Ep. 11: Lakes and rivers and streams, Oh My! A lively discussion about Kentucky’s surface hydrology Oct 28, 2022

Matt, Doug, and Sarah discuss surface hydrology, differentiating natural and engineered lakes, Kentucky watersheds, geology's role in Kentucky lake characteristics, and cool factoids about the Commonwealth's rich surface freshwater resources. And poke a little fun at a few of our border states (who we love). Photo is from Grayson Lake in eastern Kentucky (by Doug Curl).

Ep. 10: Diving Into Geologic Time Sep 29, 2022

Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss all things geologic time with KGS geologist and geomorphologist Jason Dortch (a lover of geologic time and our first repeat guest!) including the abstract concept itself, the geologic time scale, deep time, love/hate with the Anthropocene, geologic hazards and resiliency, and much more!

Ep. 9: A Chat with Ky State Geologist and KGS Director, Dr. Bill Haneberg Aug 26, 2022

Our guest is Bill Haneberg, State Geologist of Kentucky and Director here at the Kentucky Geological Survey. Listen as we talk about all things geological surveys, where they fit into the geologic community, KGS accomplishments, Bill's background, current research, and his billiards game.

Ep. 8: GIS and Spatial Data in KY: Leading the Way Jul 28, 2022

In this episode, we talk with Kent Anness, Director of the Kentucky Division of Geographic Information, about the wealth of cutting-edge spatial data, like aerial photography and lidar, available in Kentucky. We discuss uses and analysis that go well beyond geology, including disaster planning, emergency 911 location, business siting, and transportation planning.

Program note: we recorded this episode before the recent flooding in eastern Kentucky (July 2022), and in the weeks, months, and years ahead many of these GIS resources we discussed will likely be used for rescue, recovery, and planning in the affected areas. Our thoughts are with those impacted by the flooding in eastern Kentucky. If you would like to help, here are some links for donations and needs: Team Eastern KY Flood Relief Fund: https://secure.kentucky.gov/FormServices/Finance/EKYFloodRelief Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, Appalachian Crisis Fund: https://www.appalachianky.org/ Appalshop Flood Relief Resources: https://appalshop.org/news/appalachian-flood-support-resources

Ep. 7: The Brachiopodcast: Paleontology, Fossils, and More! Jun 15, 2022

The Big Blue Rock Pod hosts talk with Steve Greb, KGS geologist and resident paleontology expert, about fossils, fossil preservation, paleontology’s role in other geologic theories and disciplines, shark jaws, and Matt’s love of stromatoporoids. Does Sarah mention caves and karst? Tune in to find out!

Ep. 6: Bourbon and Geology May 24, 2022

Listen to Matt, Sarah, and Doug talk with geologists and spirits enthusiasts, Mike McGlue (University of Kentucky Earth and Environmental Sciences) and John Hickman (KGS) about the link between Kentucky geology and all things bourbon. They discuss bourbon basics, rock type and groundwater influence on bourbon production, bourbon myths, that shady guy Elijah Craig, the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits at UK, and favorite bourbons!

Ep. 5: Geology of Mammoth Cave Apr 25, 2022

Mammoth Cave is the longest cave system in the world and it's right here in Kentucky. Listen in as we talk with our co-host Sarah Arpin about all things Mammoth Cave including the fascinating geology, hydrology, and culture that make this cave system unique and world-renowned.

Ep. 4: Don’t say the ”T” word! A conversation about southern Appalachian geology Mar 28, 2022

The Big Blue RockPod discusses the complexity and intrigue of southern Appalachian geology, covering everything from physiography, tectonics, mountain building, age, cool rocks…just don’t say the "T" word! What's the "T" word? Listen to our conversation with University of Kentucky professor Dr. Ryan Thigpen (Earth and Environmental Studies, Structure and Geodynamics Group) to find out!

Ep. 3: Glaciers in northern Kentucky? Tell me more... Feb 25, 2022

In this episode, we talk with Jason Dortch, a geologist and geomorphologist here at KGS, about glaciers and glacial processes. While continental-scale glaciers did not cover all of Kentucky, they caused major impacts to the landscape in northern Kentucky and the greater Cincinnati area and beyond. Listen to our conversation with Jason and learn about all things glaciers (and glacier adjacent activity) in Kentucky (or as much as we can fit in under an hour)!

Ep. 2: Red River Gorge: Geology, Culture, and the Future Jan 27, 2022

Listen in as we talk with Matt Massey, a KGS field geologist and rock climber, about the geology of the Red River Gorge in eastern Kentucky. There’s a unique intersection between fascinating geology, spectacular landscape, and culture that makes "The Red" world famous.

Ep. 1: Introducing the KGS Big Blue Rock Pod Jan 27, 2022

Welcome to the Big Blue RockPod, sponsored by the Kentucky Geological Survey, at the University of Kentucky. This podcast is a fun, conversational approach to discussing all things geology and earth processes, primarily focused on Kentucky. We talk about the past, present, and exciting future of earth science for all levels of interest.

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