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Ever wondered what life is like for a scientist who works a volcano observatory during an ongoing eruption?! Well now you don't have to! In this special VolcaKnowledge episode we're joined by two of the science team from the United States Geological Survey Hawai'i Volcano Observatory (USGS HVO) to discuss the current* activity at Kīlauea volcano. HVO Research Geologists Dr. Kendra J. Lynn and Dr Heather Winslow take us through life working at a volcano observatory and what they are learning about this incredible volcanic system through a huge variety of data and observations. We discuss the volcanic activity from December 2024 - January 2026, managing the logistics of HVO during a time of ongoing volcanic activity at the surface, and highlight the incredible range of job roles and dedication needed to make an observatory run effectively! *NOTE: All topics, data, and current state of alerts and access to witness activity at Kīlauea discussed within this episode may only be relevant until the date of January 16, 2026 (Eruption Episode 40). Any changes to eruptive activity and alerts since then may not be reflected by specifics within this episode. Learn a little more about our guest observatory scientists: Dr. Kendra J. Lynn (she/her) - U.S. Geological Survey Research Geologist – Petrologist  As a Research Geologist at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, I leverage petrology and geochemistry to investigate the timescales of geologic processes operating in Earth’s mantle and volcanic systems – from the generation of magma during melting to its eruption. Understanding the timing and duration of magma storage and transport is critical for constraining the dynamic evolution of our planet and volcanic eruption scenarios. My ongoing work investigates these themes for Mauna Loa, post-2018 Kīlauea eruptions, and Kīlauea’s explosive eruptive past. Dr. Heather Winslow (she/her) - Mendenhall Research Fellow - Research Geologist As an igneous petrologist, I specialize in using crystal records from erupted volcanic products to determine pre-eruptive magma storage constraints and timescales of magmatic processes. My research has spanned from field areas in the Cascades, the Chilean Andes, and now to Hawaii. My research at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is focused on Mauna Loa and constraining its storage conditions and magma transfer pathways between its summit and rift zones. I am also involved in eruption response and research at Kīlauea.  Relevant links to the Hawai'i' Volcano Observatory: Multimedia pages (images and videos of the eruption)Kīlauea volcano updates from HVOMonitoring data from activityLive HVO webcams for KīlaueaAll USGS Volcano ObservatoriesHawai'i Volcanoes National Park (US NPS) NOTE: For anyone planning on visiting Kīlauea to observe any ongoing activity, please first check and be aware of all notices and alerts from the Hawai'i' Volcanoes National Park.

For our latest episode, we dig (literally) into the world of geological field tools with geologist Lauren Heerschap, CEO of Brunton - one of our sponsors. Join us as we discuss Lauren's journey from geologist to designing tools to running a company! Lauren Heerschap (she/her) is a geologist and educator whose invention of the revolutionary Axis transit led to her to working alongside Brunton for its launch. One thing led to another and in 2021, her and her husband, David, were able to purchase Brunton, helping ensure the brand's longevity as the main US manufacturer of quality compasses used around the world by geologists, outdoor recreationists, and military professionals. Social links: Brunton FB - https://www.facebook.com/BruntonInternational Brunton Insta - https://www.instagram.com/brunton_intl/ Brunton LinkedIn - Brunton International Brunton YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@bruntoninternational Lauren FB - https://www.facebook.com/lauren.heerschap.1 Lauren Insta - https://www.instagram.com/laurenheerschap/

Volcanic rocks can prove very versatile as building and construction materials , and in one site in south west England, a 400 million year old band of volcanic lava is being used for exactly that! In this episode, we speak to Ben Dormer, Operations Director and prior Quarry Manager, for John Wainwright & Co., an aggregates and asphalt quarrying operation in Somerset, England. At Moons Hill Quarry, Wainwright Aggregates have been quarrying a large body of andesite for over 130 years, providing a strong and robust material for construction and aggregate asphalt across the UK. Ever wondered what process goes into the quarrying industry? How rocks are chosen, how they are extracted, and how they become final materials for clients? We delve into this industry and the many roles needed for it to operate smoothly, with our podcast sponsor. Find out more about Wainwright Aggregates here: https://wainwright.co.uk/

Our relationship with the natural world can be both emotional and spiritual , as well as one of just physical science. But by blending those, we can create an even deeper understanding and respect for the processes and history of our planet. Here to talk to us more about this connection, and her new book "The Whispers of Rock" is Earth Scientist, Presenter and Author, Anjana Khatwa. Dr Anjana Khatwa (She/Her/Hers) is an award-winning earth scientist who has worked for several universities, the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and the National Trust. Dr Khatwa has contributed to and presented TV programmes for the BBC as well as ITV. She has been given the Geographical Award for public engagement by the Royal Geographical Society, the RH Worth Award by the Geological Society of London and the Halstead Medal from the Geologists’ Association. In 2021, she received a National Diversity Award in recognition of her work to champion inclusion within earth science and natural heritage and the same year was longlisted for the 2021 Nan Shepherd Prize for nature writing. She lives with her family in Dorset in a house filled with rocks and fossils collected from all over the world. The Whispers of Rock is her first book. Author of The Whispers of Rock: Stories from the Earth Released 4th September 2025 (UK) and 4th November 2025 (USA)https://geoscientist.online/sections/books-and-arts/whispers-of-rock-stories-from-earth/tiktok @jurassicg1rl instagram @anjanakhatwa X @jurassicg1rl   Bluesky  @anjanakhatwa   Youtube @dranjanakhatwa   website  www.anjanakhatwa.com

Imagine going to work every day with a volcano AS your backyard... and your job? to guide people around that volcano and it's incredible environment. In this episode we're joined by Shanda Ochs, an Interpretive Park Ranger for Lassen Volcanic National Park in California, USA. Shanda Ochs has been working as a ranger around Lassen and it's environment for over 20 years, learning about this incredible active volcanic landscape and passing that knowledge onto the many thousands who visit the National Park every single year. There is an incredible variety of geology, volcanic landforms, hydrothermal activity, culture, history, and wildlife with the park and Shanda takes us through all of it, with some incredible insights into the daily life and her responsibilities as an Interpretive Park Ranger. We hope this episode will leave you wanting to pack your bags to go and explore Lassen one day, or to even return (I know I want to...)! Lassen Volcanic National Park Here's another conversation with Shanda: Learn more

Ever wondered what happens behind the doors of a natural history museum? From collections, archives, conservation to research, there is so much to learn and that we don't see as visitors. To give us some insight into this, please welcome Chiara Maria Petrone from NHM London! Dr Chiara Maria Petrone (she/her) is head of Volcano Petrology at the Natural History Museum, in London, UK. Her research focuses on volcanoes, particularly those that are currently active. Her major research goal is to make robust estimates of the timescales of volcanic eruptions and thereby improve forecasting of future eruptions and their impact on society. She leads development in analytical techniques that push the boundaries of extracting time-related information from single minerals at the micron-scale. She uses the rocks erupted during volcanic eruptions to unravel the hidden processes inside the volcano, as a psychologist explores the human mind. Instagram - @chiara.petrone.1 Linkedin - Chiara Maria Petrone Webpage - NHM Mineral and Planetary Sciences

Volcanoes and earth science are a very visual field, where illustrations and sketches are critical for a targeted and simplistic understanding. In this episode we speak with scientific illustrator Annabelle Foster about the importance of accurate illustrations and schematics in Earth Science, as well as setting up her own business in this area. Annabelle is a scientific illustrator and Earth scientist with a PhD in volcanology from Durham University, where her love for turning complex science into visual stories first began. She specialises in illustrating Earth science research, but her freelance work spans a wide range of fields, including cardiology, neuroscience, immunology, physics, and bioengineering. Annabelle has travelled far and wide to study volcanoes up close. Her doctoral research focused on an obsidian-rich volcanic ridge in Iceland, where she investigated how obsidian can form from sintered volcanic ash, not just from rapidly cooling lava! Based in North Yorkshire, she works with clients around the world and is dedicated to making science more accessible, visual, and inspiring. Her illustrations have appeared in academic journals, education resources, public engagement projects, and international conferences. Website: www.annabellefoster.com Instagram: @geology_talk

Every continent has a highest mountain, but every continent also has a highest volcano! Wouldn't it be incredible to climb all seven?! So let's speak to someone who has done it! This episode we're joined by mountaineer, military veteran and volcanic climber, Ricardo Kaljouw, who recently completed the Seven Volcanic Summits challenge - to talk all about his experiences climbing these seven volcanoes. You won't believe how different each of these are! Ricardo Kaljouw, born on May 22, 1986, in Vlissingen, Netherlands, is a distinguished Dutch alpinist and military veteran. He is known for his achievements in mountaineering, particularly for completing the Volcanic Seven Summits challenge. This feat, which involves climbing the highest volcanic peaks across all seven continents, was capped by his historic summit of Mount Sidley in Antarctica in February 2025, making him the first Dutchman to complete this challenging endeavor. He is also ranked as number 50 in the world to have completed the Volcanic Seven Summits. Beyond his accomplishments in climbing, Kaljouw is a veteran of the Dutch Armed Forces, having served in multiple military missions. His experience in the military has shaped his approach to both mountaineering and life, instilling a sense of discipline, resilience, and determination that has propelled him through extreme challenges. Kaljouw has climbed over 50 high-elevation volcanoes around the world, some of which are still active. His passion for volcanic exploration goes beyond the summits, as he actively shares his experiences through various platforms. Engaging with a community of fellow explorers, he teaches newcomers about the fascinating world of volcanoes. Website: https://sevenvolcanicsummits.com/ Instagram: @sevenvolcanicsummits

Time to get artistic, as nature IS one of our greatest artists, but sometimes we also need human artists to help us better visualize and interpret the world around us. We're joined in this episode by nature illustrator and geologist, Vojta Hybl, as he takes us through his journey across geology and art, and how he is using art as a way of communicating the geological world with the public. Vojta (he/him) is a nature illustrator, writer and educator based in Scotland. He works at the intersection of art and science, exploring the interconnectedness of the natural world as well as our relationship with it. Vojta studied Geology and Physical Geography at The University of Edinburgh and found his way into illustration when doing field sketches. He began communicating geology through art on Instagram as 'Rocks on Paper' in 2021. Since then, Vojta's practice has grown to include all parts of nature and he has worked on science communication and creative projects with National Museums Scotland, Dynamic Earth, The University of Edinburgh and The Nature Library. Socials and links: Instagram: @vojta.illustrates BlueSky: @vojtahybl.com Website and shop: vojtahybl.com Newsletter: https://vojtahybl.com/subscribe

How can we use the ever-growing world of social media to educate people about volcanoes?? We're joined by volcano science communicator and content creator, Denali, to discuss everything from creating funny and informative videos to battling viral misinformation during volcanic crises. Denali (they/them) is a graduate student pursuing a PhD in volcanic geochemistry. They obtained a Bachelors of Science degree from University of Florida, completing an honors thesis on mid-ocean ridge volcanism before working as a laboratory technician at the Alaska Volcano Observatory. They now research the evolution of plagioclase ultraphyric basalts in Iceland as a part of their PhD. Denali is very active in science communication and outreach and currently run three different social media accounts focused on increasing public knowledge of geoscience and encouraging young students to pursue a career in the Earth sciences, and promoting equality in STEM as a whole. All socials are under @dykanite:Instagram , Tiktok, Youtube , Bluesky, Facebook 

We kickstart Season 3 diving into one of the founding places for the modern study and science of geology... Scotland. Three billion years of history, with plenty of volcanic activity along the way! But what if you had someone to guide you through this incredible landscape?? In this episode we're joined by geoscience communicator, presenter and "scottish geologist" Luisa Hendry (she/her) to explore what Scotland has to offer as a geo-teaching paradise, and also Luisa's role a geological tour guide. Enjoy, and maybe sign up for one of Luisa's tours if you're ever in the neighbourhood! Luisa Hendry, known online as @scottishgeologist, is a Scottish geologist and science communicator renowned for her engaging educational content on Scotland’s geology. She graduated from the University of Glasgow with a Bachelor of Science in Earth Science (Geology) in 2015.  After graduation, Luisa worked as a Senior Engineering Geologist within the engineering sector. In 2023, she began creating educational videos on TikTok and Instagram, sharing her passion for rocks and geological formations. Her authentic and accessible approach quickly earned her a substantial following with over 500K across all her social media accounts.  Building on her online success, Luisa founded “Scot Rock Walks – Geology Tours Ltd” in March 2024, offering guided geology tours across Scotland to educate the public about the nation’s rich geological heritage. She also delivers workshops and educational talks through “Scot Rock Talks,” aiming to inspire future generations of geologists.  Luisa’s contributions have significantly raised public awareness and appreciation of geology, particularly Scotland’s diverse geological landscapes. Her work exemplifies how passion and modern communication platforms can effectively promote science education. Socials: IG – https://www.instagram.com/scottishgeologist/?hl=en FB – https://www.facebook.com/scottishgeologist/?locale=en_GB YT – https://www.youtube.com/@Sco ttishgeologist Threads – https://www.threads.com/@scottishgeologist TT - https://www.tiktok.com/@scottishgeologist?lang=en X – https://x.com/scotgeologist?lang=en

We finish this season with a focus on training the next generation of geoscience communicators. We're joined by Sharon Backhouse, Director of the GeoTenerife research and training program based in Canary Islands. We talk about the program and also delve into tourism on volcanic islands, geo-sustainability, and public education of risk and hazards. I (Sharon) am a journalist and an ardent lover of communication and the Canary Islands. We set up GeoTenerife over a decade ago to provide quality learning experiences for international students and showcase these dramatic volcanic islands in the Atlantic we are so passionate about. We have evolved into a science training and research company, collaborating with a range of local, national and international institutions and experts, running field trips and training camps.  We make all of our research output freely available online via our project VolcanoStories. We focus on the three hot issues where we believe change is most needed: La Palma and the response to the 2021 eruption and reconstruction; volcanic readiness in the Canary Islands and sustainable tourism. We self-funded Lava Bombs, a film about the impacts of the 2021 eruption in Cumbre Vieja, to enable the lessons learned here to travel far and wide to advocate for change in the face of any future event. Shortly we will release Lava Bombs 2 on the reconstruction.  As a communicator, I strive to forge communication links between the key stakeholders: politicians, scientists, emergency managers, residents and the press. We all speak and hear differently, and it's vital to ensure messaging is helpful, particularly in times of crisis. We run free courses and events for residents, and interactive sessions where they can meet and question decisionmakers. We were at IAVCEI in New Zealand to show and run a panel discussion on Lava Bombs and will run various sessions at COV12 to bring all those voices to stakeholders in Guatemala and the wider community. The topics we tackle are emotive and difficult, but we advocate for constructive discussion and listening to ensure all viewpoints are respected and strive for change where necessary. All our training courses include a SciComm training element. Science is at its best when it's unlocked from closed academic circles at the service of the people. We empower our students to go out into the world and communicate effectively across boundaries. Website: www.geotenerife.com VolcanoStories: https://geotenerife.com/volcanostories/ Socials - Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok: @GeoTenerife Lava Bombs:www.lavabombsfilm.com  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lavabombsfilm7918

What was your first geology or earth science class? Did you have someone that was an influence in your path? We're joined by community college geology professor Edith Rojas to talk about her personal journey from Nicaragua to the USA, changing career paths, and now passing on geological inspiration to a new diverse generation. Edith Rojas Salazar (she/her/ella) is an associate professor of Geology at College of the Desert. Edith’s area of expertise is volcanics and geochronology. Professor Rojas is a dynamic force in the geology field nestled in the picturesque Coachella Valley. As a passionate Latina Immigrant, professor Rojas brings a unique perspective to her role, infusing her love for science with a commitment to diversity and accessibility. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom as she engages in science communication initiatives,  striving to break down barriers and make STEM fields more inclusive.  Instagram: @Latina_geologist X: @LatinaGeologist

Did you know that there are volcanoes in Australia?! Well, it's time to take a journey down under for fascinating insight into the history of Australia's volcanoes, the importance of indigenous aboriginal history, and bringing together that knowledge with new physical scientific data.... and Dr. Heather Handley is the perfect guide for this journey! Dr. Heather Handley is an Associate Professor Volcanic Hazards and Geoscience Communication, University of Twente and Adjunct Associate Professor Monash University. Heather’s research takes a multidisciplinary approach to better understand how volcanoes work in order to reduce the risk from volcanic hazards. She is Co-Founder of the Earth Futures Festival, an international film and video festival uniting the arts and science to showcase the role of geoscience in sustainable development. Heather strongly advocates for Women in STEM, diversity and inclusion and is Co-Founder and Inaugural President of the Women in Earth and Environmental Science Australasia (@WOMEESA) Network. In her spare time she is writing a book on Australia’s little known but absolutely amazing volcanoes.  Twitter: @heatherkhandley @FacultyITC @MonashEAE Website: https://www.heatherhandley.com/

Video games and volcanoes... who knew?! Ed and Jazmin take us through their gaming experiences as trained volcano scientists, and how they blended their two loves into educational research assessing the accuracy of geology in video games. No surprise, some are more accurate than others! What memories of volcanoes do YOU have in video games? Ed McGowan (he/him) is a PhD researcher at the University of Leicester. His project focuses on using geochemistry to correlate ancient caldera-forming pyroclastic flow deposits and determine their source vent location within the English Lake District. Additionally, Ed investigates geology within popular video games and how they could be used as an educational tool. Twitter - @The_Volcano_Guy Blue Sky - @thevolcanoguy Website – www.volcanoguyblogs.com Dr Jazmin Scarlett (she/her) is a Flood Resilience Officer, involved helping communities prepare, respond and recover from flooding, maintenance of the flood warning service and reviewing flood alert and warning thresholds and assisting the Area Incident Team in emergency management. BlueSky - @grumpyvolcano.bsky.social Video Games and volcanoes: Paper - https://gc.copernicus.org/articles/4/11/2021/ Blogpost - https://phdvolcanology.wordpress.com/tag/videogame/ Paper - https://gc.copernicus.org/articles/5/325/2022/