Science

Rust Belt Science

by Dr. Maggie Fink and Dr. Shahir Rizk

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Latest episodes

Why Basic Research and Bacteria Matter and: An Interview with Dr. Dan Kearns

October 11, 2026 · 1 hr 29 min

On Rust Belt Science, hosts Maggie Fink and Shahir Rizk talk with Dr. Daniel Kearns, a biology professor at Indiana University Bloomington, about his research on Bacillus subtilis, bacterial movement, and how life in the lab can change the…
The AI Con: A Conversation with Dr. Emily M. Bender on the Power of Language, AI and Education, and the Part of our Humanity We Lose to Artificial Intelligence

September 29, 2026 · 1 hr 3 min

In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving conversation surrounding artificial intelligence, featuring insights from Dr. Emily M. Bender, a distinguished linguist and professor at the University of Washington. Her unique perspective…
Exploring Space, Storytelling and Asteroids with Dr. Amy Mainzer

September 3, 2026 · 1 hr 25 min

In this episode of Rust Belt Science, Maggie Fink and Shahir Rizk welcome Dr. Amy Mainzer, a professor at UCLA and principal investigator at NASA, to discuss her fascinating work on near-Earth objects and her unique perspectives on science…
Exploring Chemistry of the Ocean with Dr. Claire Till

August 20, 2026 · 59 min

In this episode, we journey into the depths of ocean chemistry with Claire Till, a professor at California State Polytechnic University Humboldt. Claire specializes in the intricate relationships between trace metals and marine life…
The Science of Waxes and AI: Unlocking Plant Secrets with Dr. Luke Busta

August 7, 2026 · 1 hr 28 min

In this episode, Luke Busta, an associate professor at the University of Minnesota Duluth, shares his fascinating research on plant chemistry, the potential of plant-derived waxes for industrial use, and the role of AI in scientific…

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The Science of Coffee: From Farm to Cup with Tyler Sutch, Owner and Operator of A Roaster Called Revenant

June 22, 2026 · 1 hr 22 min

Join us as we explore the science and art of coffee with Tyler Sutch, owner of Revenant Coffee. Discover the intricate processes behind sourcing, roasting, and brewing coffee, and learn how science influences flavor profiles and quality…
Bridging Science and Community: Insights from Dr. Sean Decatur, President of the American Museum of Natural History

May 14, 2026 · 1 hr 16 min

In this conversation, Dr. Sean Decatur, president of the American Museum of Natural History, discusses the museum's history, its educational programs, and the importance of engaging the public in science. He emphasizes the role of museums…
The Future of Science Publishing and the Importance of Science Communication: Insights from Dr. Holden Thorpe

March 31, 2026 · 51 min

Join us as we explore the fascinating intersection of science, art, and communication with Holden Thorpe, editor in chief of Science Magazine. Discover insights into scientific publishing, the role of art in life, and strategies to combat…
Beyond the Cell: Understanding Cancer with Dr. Nick Pulliam

January 8, 2026 · 1 hr 19 min

In this episode of Rust Belt Science, hosts Maggie Fink and Shahir Rizk speaks with Dr. Nick Pulliam, a cancer researcher and science communicator. They discuss Nick's journey to obtaining a PhD in cancer biology, the importance of…
From Plants to Power: The Untold Story of Biofuels with Dr. Eric Hegg

December 4, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min

In this conversation, Dr. Eric Hegg discusses the complexities of biofuels, particularly focusing on the role of lignin and cellulose in biofuel production. He explains the challenges of breaking down lignin, the balance between nature and…
Sharks and Science Communication: A Deep Dive with Michelle Jewell

November 20, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min

In this episode of Rust Belt Science, host Maggie Fink and Shahir Rizk speak with Michelle Jewell, a science communicator and shark researcher at the Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center. They discuss Michelle's journey from growing…
Science, Education, and UFOs with Dr. Mike Dennin

November 6, 2025 · 57 min

In this conversation, Mike Dennin, a professor at UC Irvine, discusses his multifaceted roles in academia, the evolution of UC Irvine, and the challenges faced by students in the current educational landscape. He emphasizes the importance…

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About the show

Rust Belt Science: down-to-earth conversations about cutting-edge research, Maggie Fink and Shahir Rizk sit down with passionate scientists to dive into their work, making complex ideas easy to grasp for everyone—no lab coat required! But it’s more than just science talk. We pull back the curtain to show that researchers are everyday people, living and working in our communities. Our conversations dive into how science connects to art, culture, mythology, and all other aspects of our daily lives. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just curious about how the world works, even if you find science to be intimidating, Rust Belt Science connects you to groundbreaking ideas and the inspiring stories of the people behind them.