Stay ConnectedThe Science Pawdcast breaks down the latest science happening in the human world AND the pet world.
Jason and Kris Zackowski break down a topical science news and pet science news every week with a dose of humour and heart.
You’ll also occasionally get a wonderful interview with a science expert about their area of knowledge, but ALSO some pet stories too!
It’s the perfect blend of education and fun!
Copyright: ℗ & © 2019 The Science Pawdcast - With Bunsen Berner!
What if quantum mechanics could revolutionize the way we compute? In this episode, we break down the seemingly "spooky" principles of quantum computing, exploring concepts like qubits, superposition, and entanglement. Kris and I make these complex ideas more approachable, showing how quantum computers can perform multiple calculations simultaneously and solve problems that stump classical computers. We also touch upon exciting applications like cryptography, aiming to demystify this cutting-edge technology for our listeners.
Switching gears, we enter the intriguing world of cat blood types and transfusions, inspired by Bunsen's recent medical journey. Using a fun analogy with quantum phenomena, we explain the critical importance of matching blood types in cats to prevent life-threatening reactions. Learn about the three primary blood types—A, B, and AB—within the AB blood group system, and understand why accurate blood typing and cross-matching are essential for successful transfusions, offering practical insights for pet owners and veterinarians.
Finally, we welcome Dave Latorra and Stephanie Ford from DNA Is Love, who share their heartfelt journey of blending science with sentiment through DNA keepsake jewelry. Discover how they preserve the DNA of loved ones and pets, creating lasting connections through personalized jewelry. Dave and Stephanie recount touching stories, from capturing a father's DNA in the ICU to preserving the DNA of beloved pets, highlighting the emotional significance and the innovative science behind these unique keepsakes. This episode is a beautiful exploration of the powerful intersections of science, emotion, and memory, designed to tug at your heartstrings.
DNA is Love:
Website
Social Media Instagram
Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!
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For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
What happens when a spacecraft designed for human travel can't safely carry its crew? Today, we unravel the latest updates on the Boeing Starliner and the safety decisions reshaping the missions of astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. Stranded on the ISS until February 2025, they'll make their return on a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. With historical nods to the Challenger disaster, we reflect on NASA's enduring commitment to astronaut safety and the current status of the Starliner as it preps for a crucial uncrewed landing.
Ever thought about how your neighborhood might influence your decision to get a dog? We share our personal journey from financially struggling students in a small trailer to stable dog owners in a rural setting, closely examining a 2021 study from Denmark. Discover how neighborhood wealth, more than income or education, plays a pivotal role in dog ownership and hear how our own experiences align with these findings. From companionship to physical exercise, dogs provide immense emotional benefits, and our discussion highlights how these factors resonate across different socioeconomic statuses.
Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Brandon Keim, author of "Meet the Neighbors: Animal Minds and Life in a More-Than-Human World." Brandon offers fascinating insights into animal intelligence and personhood, enriched by stories of animal behavior and ecological impact.
From the individuality within animal species to the impressive engineering feats of beavers, we delve into the heartwarming and thought-provoking tales of animal companions and bird migration. With a special spotlight on Norbert the beaver and emotional pet stories, this episode is a rich tapestry of science, nature, and the profound bonds between humans and animals.
Brandon's Links:
Website
Book
Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!
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For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
Ever had to suit up in the sweltering summer heat to tackle a sneaky wasp problem? In this hilarious yet slightly tense episode of Pet Chat, where Chris recounts her daring adventure dressed in a survival suit! Our beloved pets—Bunsen, Beaker, Bernoulli, and Ginger—add their own unique twists to our week, with Bernoulli making a memorable visit to a local school and Bunsen showing remarkable resilience as he recovers from major surgery.
Curious about how to handle a giant puppy with a penchant for chewing books and baseboards? We've got you covered! Tune in to hear about Bunsen's impressive training journey through multiple levels of puppy school and the unexpected impact of COVID-19 on Beaker's training. We’ll share practical tips for managing your pet's chewing habits and strategies for dealing with those pesky wasps that seem to pop up when least expected. Plus, a touching story about Sasha's trip to the Norwegian fjords, featuring some friendly goats in Bergen!
Looking for some heartwarming pet stories and maybe a chuckle or two? Bunsen's post-surgery recovery, Beaker's comforting presence, and Bernoulli's antics are sure to entertain. We wrap up the episode with a heartfelt thank you to our amazing community for their support during Bunsen's recovery journey and a nod to Ginger's latest catio adventures. Don’t miss this fun-filled episode packed with laughter, love, and the quirks of our furry family members!
Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!
Join the Paw Pack!
Check out Zencastr- it's the website we use to do interviews!
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Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:
Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
Ever wondered what bacteria might be lurking in your microwave?
You're about to find out! This episode kicks off with an emotional update on Bunsen's miraculous recovery from his near-death surgery, immersing you in the highs and lows of this heartwarming journey. We then shift gears to discuss a recent foodborne illness outbreak in Calgary, sharing our personal experiences and the hidden dangers in our kitchens, including the startling discovery of over 100 bacterial strains in microwave ovens. It's an eye-opener that will have you reconsidering the cleanliness of your own microwave.
Imagine a classroom where farm animals are your teachers! We explore the transformative power of animal-assisted education, recounting personal anecdotes and examining a fascinating study from Czechoslovakia. Fourth graders learned on a farm, showing significant improvements in long-term memory retention and cognitive performance. These hands-on, multi-sensory learning experiences foster emotional connections and enhance overall well-being—proving that sometimes, a goat can be the best teacher.
Dinosaurs have always sparked our imagination, and in this episode, we bring that fascination to life with an exclusive interview with Jay Balamurugan, assistant producer at BBC Studios. Jay shares her journey from joining the BBC to working on the highly-anticipated "Walking with Dinosaurs" series. We dive into the awe-inspiring world of paleontology, discuss the peculiarities of the Spinosaurus, and reflect on the ethical responsibilities of factual TV programming. Jay even shares personal pet stories and intriguing dinosaur facts that highlight the extensive history of these magnificent creatures. Join us for an unforgettable episode that blends heartfelt moments, scientific curiosity, and a touch of prehistoric wonder.
Jay's Links:
https://linktr.ee/kakapojay
Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!
Join the Paw Pack!
Our Website!
www.bunsenbernerbmd.com
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Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:
Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
Have you ever wondered how medications interact with summer heat, or why dog owners might be more resilient than cat owners?
Join us as we uncover these mysteries and more in an episode bursting with heartfelt stories, scientific insights, and thought-provoking discussions.
We kick things off by thanking our wonderful listeners for their support during Bunsen's emergency surgery.
As the mercury rises, we unpack recent studies on the risks certain medications pose during hot summer days and share vital tips on managing them safely. Kris celebrates her love for summer's warmth, even as we dig into the serious side of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
What kind of pet owner are you? We tackle this age-old debate by examining how our furry friends shape our personalities and stress coping mechanisms. Drawing from an intriguing Australian study, we break down the Big Five personality traits and reveal the surprising differences between cat and dog owners. We share our own pet stories and biases, offering a candid look at how past interactions have shaped our views. This segment challenges our preconceived notions and explores the fascinating ways pets can influence our mental health and resilience.
The science train doesn't stop there; we delve into the complex world of epigenetics with master student Melanie Lemaire. Melanie sheds light on DNA methylation and its impact on pregnancy complications like preeclampsia. We break down the science into digestible analogies, discuss ongoing research, and even touch on the artistic side of science communication.
Whether you're a science enthusiast or a pet lover, this episode offers a blend of knowledge, personal stories, and expert insights to keep you engaged from start to finish.
Melanie's Study!
Melanie on Instagram
Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!
Join the Paw Pack!
Our Website!
www.bunsenbernerbmd.com
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Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:
Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
What would you do if your beloved pet's life was hanging in the balance?
In this emotionally charged episode, we recount the heart-stopping ordeal our dear science dog, Bunsen, faced when he suddenly showed signs of severe bloat.
From the horrifying moment of recognizing his distress to the frantic rush to the emergency vet, we share the critical importance of swift action in life-threatening situations. Hear about the initial tests, the urgency of further investigation, and how the support from our social media community helped us through these tense moments.
Join us as we navigate the emotional rollercoaster of waiting for Bunsen's life-saving surgery. The night was filled with an incredible mix of anxiety and hope, compounded by an unexpected delay due to another emergency case. We'll also share the heartwarming encounter with a former student, Jennifer, who now works at the clinic and helped provide some solace during this stressful time. The support from our online followers truly underscored Bunsen's special place in many hearts, making the wait both bearable and poignant.
The climax of Bunsen's journey comes with the nerve-wracking surgical procedure where critical decisions had to be made. You'll hear about the successful removal of a massive growth and the immense relief that followed. As we discuss his miraculous recovery and the ongoing concerns about his health, you'll also get a glimpse into how our other pets, Beaker and Bernoulli, reacted to Bunsen's return home.
With heartfelt gratitude, we thank our community and encourage support for local charities, reflecting on the overwhelming love and support we've received. Don't miss this deeply moving episode that highlights the bond between humans and their pets and the incredible impact of community support.
Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!
Join the Paw Pack!
Our Website!
www.bunsenbernerbmd.com
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Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:
Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
Ever had one of those days where everything goes hilariously awry?
Join us on Pet Chat as Kris recounts an eventful outing to the puppy play area with Bernoulli, where unexpected warm weather and a wardrobe mishap led to some laugh-out-loud moments.
Kris braved the chaos solo while Jason battled a migraine, and despite the challenges, Bernoulli had a fantastic time, even taking an unplanned dip in the water. It's a heartwarming tale of perseverance and community spirit that pet lovers won't want to miss.
Imagine embarking on a beautiful Rocky Mountain hike, only to find yourself hilariously lost due to a map error. That’s exactly what happened on our memorable hike with Adam, Annalise, and our three dogs at Ptarmigan Cirque. Not only do we share the stunning scenery and cool weather, but we also address a listener's question about a dog’s behavior towards their husband, offering practical advice and our own personal insights. This segment is packed with a mix of useful information and entertaining stories that will keep you engaged.
From Beaker's impressive agility skills to tech troubles and the quirks of managing device storage, our episode explores a range of engaging topics. You'll hear about Millie the critter detector, Norbert the beaver's nocturnal schedule, and even a pond rescue that had Chris teary-eyed.
We wrap up with discussions on outdoor adventures, food safety, and the exciting launch of our 2025 calendar pre-sale. With something for every pet enthusiast, this episode promises a blend of humor, heart, and helpful tips.
Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!
Join the Paw Pack!
Our Website!
www.bunsenbernerbmd.com
Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!
Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:
Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
Could ancient microbial life have once thrived on Mars? Join us as we explore this tantalizing possibility, revealed by the Perseverance rover's groundbreaking discovery of organic molecules in Jezero crater. Learn about the mission's history, the significance of these findings, and how they compare to previous discoveries by the Curiosity rover in Gale crater. We also dive into the fascinating details of the rock sample named Cheava Falls, uncovering its unique characteristics and the challenges scientists face in identifying Martian organic compounds.
Our next topic takes us back to Earth, where we discuss the CDC's new rabies regulations for dogs entering the United States. With stricter verification requirements for dogs from high-risk countries, we emphasize the importance of mandatory vaccinations and microchipping. Through an engaging personal anecdote about travel preparations in rabies-prone areas like Costa Rica, we highlight the critical need for timely post-exposure treatment and the dangers posed by fraudulent paperwork.
In our expert segment, we are joined by cephalopod scientist Meg Mindlin for an intriguing exploration of octopus intelligence and behavior. Discover the remarkable RNA editing capabilities of octopuses, their ability to change color, and their complex behaviors such as puzzle-solving and long-term memory. We also critique the popular documentary "My Octopus Teacher" and celebrate the broader impact of octopuses in pop culture. To wrap things up, we share heartwarming pet stories and astonishing super facts about these incredible marine creatures, making for an episode filled with curiosity and wonder.
Meg on Twitter/X
Other Links
Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!
Join the Paw Pack!
Our Website!
www.bunsenbernerbmd.com
Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!
Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:
Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
Ever wondered how a mischievous puppy can outsmart older dogs? Join us in this lively episode of Pet Chat!
We share laugh-out-loud moments, like Bernoulli's surprising ability to share chews with his doggy siblings and his playful tussles with Ginger.
Our adventurous hikes with our dogs in Grotto Canyon and White Goat Falls add a touch of thrill as we navigate challenging terrains, creating unforgettable family memories.
Our episode takes a nostalgic turn as we reminisce about classic children's TV shows like Mr. Rogers and The Friendly Giant, while also celebrating the heartwarming achievements of Rich's daughter, Hannah, at the Nova Scotia Special Olympics. Rich's stories are brimming with pride and joy, capturing the essence of true sportsmanship. Amidst these anecdotes, we touch on amusing topics like glow-in-the-dark nails and invite our listeners to join the conversation, sharing their own pet stories and interactions.
Lastly, we dive into the playful dynamics between dogs, especially Baden's unique bond with golden retrievers, and share Ginger's adventurous escapades in her catio. Listener comments offer insights into dog breed affinities, while we acknowledge Dr. Zazie Todd's contributions at BarkFest. We extend our support to a listener grieving the loss of their cat and end with an entertaining tale of a little mountain goat-like character and his thrilling outdoor adventure with Beaker.
This episode is a delightful blend of humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt pet stories, perfect for any animal lover.
Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!
Join the Paw Pack!
Our Website!
www.bunsenbernerbmd.com
Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!
Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:
Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster as we kick off this riveting episode with a deeply moving update on the recent Jasper, Alberta forest fire and the unfortunate loss of the beloved Jasper Veterinary Clinic.
We transition into the fascinating realm of chemistry, unveiling a revolutionary technique that might just add a super heavy element to the periodic table. Chris and I reveal our favorite elements, sparking a lively conversation about Mendeleev's enduring legacy and the relentless evolution of chemical science.
Dog owners, this one's for you. We break down groundbreaking research from the University of California Davis on the health impacts of neutering dogs, revealing how breed-specific timing can be crucial. Larger breeds like Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds face increased risks of joint disorders and cancers, while smaller breeds like Shih Tzus fare differently. We provide detailed insights into how these findings affect popular breeds and emphasize the need for tailored recommendations rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Our conversation with media expert Dr. Kyle Stanley takes us through the transformative power of social media and internet culture. From the rise of memes as a cultural touchstone to the influence of social media influencers, we explore how digital platforms shape societal norms and consumer behaviors. Don't miss our light-hearted adventure stories from Quebec and a charming pet tale about a quirky miniature Schnauzer named Duke. This episode offers a unique blend of scientific knowledge, heartfelt stories, and entertaining anecdotes that you won't want to miss.
Link to the Neutering Article
Red Cross For Jasper
Dr. Stanley on Twitter
Bunsen and Beaker Links to support us!
Join the Paw Pack!
Our Website!
www.bunsenbernerbmd.com
Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!
Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:
Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
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