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PlanetGeo: The Geology Podcast
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PlanetGeo: The Geology Podcast

Author: Chris and Jesse

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A Geology and Earth Science Podcast. Join Chris, an award-winning geology teacher, and Jesse, a geoscience professor, in discussing the amazing features of our planet and their impact on your everyday life. No prior knowledge required. New episodes coming at you every week. Listen, subscribe, share with someone you know!
281 Episodes
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Chris is back!! Today we answer the simple question - Why do we see a predictable geologic and topographic progression as we drive from flat plains into mountains? We use examples from Michigan to Tennessee, the Canadian Rockies, Glacier, the Bighorns, Colorado, and the Appalachians to walk through a common sequence: we start on broad areas of mostly flat-lying sedimentary rocks (sandstones, shales, limestones) deposited in shallow seas, rivers, intertidal settings, and deserts; a...
On this episode of Planet Geo, we welcome Danielle Bennett—a startup operator with a venture capital background (and not a geoscientist by training) who’s been talking with tons of geologists, hydrogeologists, and engineers while helping build a geoscience-adjacent mapping company at Deep Earth Tech. Danielle shares how growing up with entrepreneur parents (who ran a groundwater-focused engineering firm) shaped her path, why she started a social-impact company in college, and how she moved fr...
In this riveting episode, we catch up with Dr. Jonathan Stock, Chief Scientist for Innovation at NASA's Intelligent Systems Division. We dive deep into the realms of geosciences and discuss how innovation can transform our understanding of the Earth and beyond. From quantum gravity gradiometers to AI-driven geophysical mapping, Dr. Stock reveals the tech that could redefine geospatial exploration. We also ponder why geosciences lag behind other fields in entrepreneurship and innovation and ho...
In this episode, we bring you a riveting Q&A session with GeoGirl Dr. Rachel Phillips and Dr. Joshua Davies, both experts in geology who explore the mysterious world of banded iron formations (BIFs). We dive deep into what BIFs are, when they formed, and their significance. Josh unpacks the debated origins of these rocks, discussing how they may be the most hotly contested rocks in the geological world due to our limited understanding of their formation process, despite their voluminous p...
In this episode, we are kicking off a new series on Geology News. We delve into why Venezuela is rich in oil, the complex tectonic interactions, and the geological formations that make it a hotspot for heavy, sour crude oil. We also take a humorous stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about our hard rock geology days and the unintuitive yet captivating world of sedimentary rocks. Join us as we explore why Venezuelan oil isn't just black gold but a treasure trove of geological intrigue. ...
To kick off Season 6 of the Planet Geo Podcast, we invited Doug Heller, a Penn State alum and geoscience finance guru, to explore investment risk in the geosciences. Doug shares thrilling stories about turning modest funds into substantial investments and offers invaluable advice for budding geologists and students. The episode delves into Doug's journey from exploring oil in the Gulf of Mexico to managing a complex bankruptcy case, and running Sun Specialty Products. Doug sheds l...
In this episode of Planet Geo, we dive deep into the fascinating phenomenon of petrification as we wrap up our season five re-release holiday series. From the beauty of petrified wood to its rare yet awe-inspiring occurrence, we explore how this natural wonder forms. We also tease exciting updates for season six, including segments with Dr. Rachel Phillips and interviews with top geoscientists. Strap in geologists and rock enthusiasts, because we're about to make some solid gains in your unde...
Welcome back to Planet Geo, the podcast where we delve into the wonders of our planet's geology, how it works, and why it matters. In this episode, part three of our holiday re-release series, we’re breaking down the basics of rock identification and collection techniques. Chris and I tackle the popular question: how do you identify rocks? We provide a general strategy perfect for budding rock hounds and outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, stay tuned for new episodes and exciting modifications coming ...
In this episode, we dive into the thrilling hobby of rock hounding, sharing our personal adventures and offering a Rocks and Minerals holiday re-release theme. We'll guide you through the basics of rock hounding, including crucial tips, resources, and a few funny anecdotes about our own experiences in gravel pits, quarries, and even snake-infested areas. Also, don't forget to follow us on social media, download the Camp Geo mobile app, and give us your feedback as we transition into the new y...
Jesse joins forces with Dr. Rachel Phillips, AKA Geo Girl, to tackle viewer questions about Earth's oldest rocks. We cover a wide range of topics, from how Earth's age is calculated using meteorites to the intriguing details of zircon dating. We also discuss the beginnings of plate tectonics, early continents, and the much-debated timeline of Earth's geological history. This in-depth discussion is packed with scientific insights, humorous quips, and plenty of geologic puns to keep you enterta...
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 interviews with geoscience leaders. We’re also eager to hear your feedback, so please reach out on our social media or website with your thoughts on...
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, dating back 2.5 billion years. Discover how the research reveals the Moon-Earth distance and the length of days billions of years ago. Plus, stic...
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, the conundrum of exhumed terrain, and even how we get our data from the deepest boreholes. Plus, they touch on the notion that water might just b...
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 episode is a treasure trove of stone-cold facts! Dive in for a journey that melds earth science and architectural history in the most intriguing way...
Flash Floods

Flash Floods

2025-10-1648:47

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. Discover how human activities and climate change are setting the stage for more frequent flash floods and learn the innovative engineering ...
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 Q&A episode to unearth some epic answers! Plus, find out what really rocks Dr. Reimink's boat. Don't miss it! Download the CampGeo...
Sasquatch Eruptions

Sasquatch Eruptions

2025-09-1135:29

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 the steamy details. We even touch on the purported stories of animals 'fleeing' the park and what it really means. Plus, citizen scientists play a...
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 geomorphologist, and the incredible insights revealed by lidar technology. Plus, discover some fascinating lesser-known geological mysteries - all se...
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 on sedimentary rocks, explore the reddish Gettysburg Formation, the Heidelsburg member, and reveal some truly fossil-iferous finds. Rock on with us ...
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 how we know! Hit that subscribe button, because this episode rocks! The paper that served as the basis for this episode is Frost, C.D., Muelle...
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Comments (15)

1 Top 2 Clean.

36:19 Lidar Images in Google Maps 👌 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 STAR Tip (^^,) Great Episode ‼️

Oct 24th
Reply

1 Top 2 Clean.

See the episode video here https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=--ZNKIqZF6Y

Mar 23rd
Reply

1 Top 2 Clean.

Great Episode on this stone (^^,) Find and look at them from here,. And many more. https://rockseeker.com/puddingstones/ Zircons—Time Capsules from the Early EarthDiamond paste is a water-based polishing compound that is used for polishing the surfaces of many types of materials including stone, metal, ceramic, gemstones and glass You can also use Vienna Lime or Vienna chalk is a very fine powdered dolomite rock. https://www.geologybites.com/nadja-drabon Barberton Greenstone Belt of South Africa

Mar 17th
Reply

En Malton 🌍

it's great 👍🏽

Nov 15th
Reply

1 Top 2 Clean.

Zircons—Time Capsules from the Early Earth. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YwbK9jkQHJM&list=PLFvjMOwDLtDB8EmA0SYY6f-hhyYPwmi3n&index=66&pp=gAQBiAQB Search for this (^^,) 'Jack Hills in Western Australia' Zircons are the oldest known materials on our planet. They offer a window in time back as far as 4.4 billion years ago, when the planet was a mere 160 million years old. Because zircons are exceptionally resistant to chemical changes, they have become the gold standard for determining the age of

Mar 7th
Reply

1 Top 2 Clean.

"Git it, Got it, GONE"! (^^,) https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=rxtqFIUCCT0&list=PLOf4plee9UzAwmHsbygddxR--zHcY21t1&index=3&pp=iAQB Zircons are the oldest known materials on our planet. They offer a window in time back as far as 4.4 billion years ago, when the planet was a mere 160 million years old. Because zircons are exceptionally resistant to chemical changes, they have become the gold standard for determining the age of ancient rocks.

Mar 7th
Reply

1 Top 2 Clean.

Pegmatites in The Black Hills 👍 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=rxtqFIUCCT0&list=PLOf4plee9UzAwmHsbygddxR--zHcY21t1&index=3&pp=iAQB How to find Rare Earth Elements, Minerals and Crystals in Pegmatites.

Mar 7th
Reply

1 Top 2 Clean.

The Great Unconformity video in Grand Canyon. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=9DGxbhnlkwQ Enjoy your 🌎 (^^,)

Mar 7th
Reply

1 Top 2 Clean.

Two Movies ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ ⭐1.) How the earth was made (2007-2009). https://archive.org/details/How.The.Earth.Was.Made ⭐2.) NOVA - Rise of the Mammals (2019) https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x8mn6hk Enjoy 🌎 (^^,)

Feb 19th
Reply (1)

1 Top 2 Clean.

Thank you for yet another great Episode. A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐5 star Podcast. (^^,) And with the Great Unconformity and the Vishnu Schist, in the bottom of Grand Canyon. See the video here https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=6R_NAV8Ieuo&list=PLi6K9w_UbfFRC8P7CPSWi7YEBwyM3ytOx&index=6&pp=iAQB Enjoy your Planet. (^^,)

Feb 19th
Reply

1 Top 2 Clean.

Thanks for the very good Podcast 👍 and this episode. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ See more here (^^,) https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=p_fgCumTAtE&pp=ygUGNTM2IEFE Or SEARCH. --- > "536 AD"

Aug 14th
Reply

1 Top 2 Clean.

Great Info and great Podcast. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Ian Miller and more of this find is here ". After the Asteroid." https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=D24guLxtBvI&pp=ygUSSWFuIE1pbGxlciBnZW9sb2d5

Aug 1st
Reply

Valeria Mizuno-Turner

I love this show. it is my favourite podcast of all times. Chris and Jess are so fluent in the earth sciences, and their guest sure don't fall short. Just listen to it, and you will love it too.

Apr 3rd
Reply

Barry Caldwell

Great episode demonstrating the fact that plate tectonic theory is still a very young science and many questions, known and unknown, remain to be answered and posed.

Feb 25th
Reply