The Big Blue Rock Pod

Latest Episodes:

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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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