Ever find yourself captivated by the flickering dance of the northern lights or the serene gaze of your pet cat? Today's episode is a cosmic journey juxtaposed with the grounding presence of our feline friends. We begin under the celestial canvas, reflecting on a geomagnetic storm's nighttime spectacle and diving into the European Space Agency's research on solar campfires—could these be the key to the sun's fiery corona mystery? Then, we turn to a UK study shedding light on what influences cat longevity, offering rich insights into how we might help our pets lead longer, healthier lives.

Transitioning from the cosmic to the personal, Stephanie Duesing returns to unfold more about her son's life with Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI), a journey that redefines what it means to 'see.' His world is one where words paint pictures, and his mind's eye interprets what his physical eyes cannot. Stephanie's powerful narrative takes us into groundbreaking research on visual neuroplasticity, offering hope and understanding for CVI's invisible challenges. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless possibilities of the mind.

As we draw this episode to a close, we revel in the heartwarming and sometimes humorous stories of our pets.

Stephanie's Links:
https://stephanieduesing.com/

Bunsen and Beaker's Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

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The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

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For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
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In this episode, we explore the significance of those wild patches on our lawns and why they're crucial for our buzzing friends. We also navigate the emotional landscape of new mothers who find solace, challenge, and joy in their pet companions amid the transformational journey of parenthood.

Ever been face to face with someone you've known for years, only to realize you can't quite place them? Imagine that being your constant reality. Joining us is Stephanie Duesing, a mother who shares the startling discovery of her son Sebastian's covert struggle with blindness and prosopagnosia, a condition that profoundly alters one's perception of the world.

Together, we traverse the intricate pathways of the brain that give rise to visual recognition and the impact that conditions like Cortical Visual Impairment can have on everyday life. Her story is one of resilience, scientific intrigue, and the paramount importance of awareness.

The tale of Sebastian, who navigated the world with topographical agnosia, challenges our understanding of perception and raises poignant questions about how we support those with unseen disabilities. Through this episode's intimate discussions, we gain insights into the power of the human brain and the unexpected pathways it can take, drawing parallels with the legendary neurologist Dr. Oliver Sacks.

Prepare to embark on a narrative journey that offers both enlightenment and empathy, reminding us of the diverse tapestry of human experience.

Stephanie's Links:
https://stephanieduesing.com/

Bunsen and Beaker's Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook

Support the Show.

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

If you've ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes magic that pairs rescue dogs with loving homes, Skarlet Rockwood from Fur Social joins us to reveal just that.

Our furry family members, Bunsen and Beaker, often steal the show with their shenanigans, but today we're peeling back the curtain on the touching adoption stories fueled by social media know-how. Settle in for an episode where we celebrate the quirks of our pets, explore the impact of animals on local ecosystems, and share the milestones of sanctuary residents like James Earl Jones the dog.

When Bunsen came home from Comic-Con with a limp, our hearts sank, and our community rallied with support and advice. Keeping an energetic dog like Bunsen quiet is an art form we're perfecting, and we'll share the tips we've learned along the way. We'll also reel you into the world of dog sports with updates from Marla's obedience trials, and you'll be amused by the great escape of Chopper, the brown kelpie, during a sunny Sunday adventure. This episode is a patchwork of narratives that cast a spotlight on the rollercoaster of pet ownership.

Wrap up your day with us as we reminisce about our costume charity event, where we channeled "The Mandalorian" for a school fundraiser—cosplay for a cause, you might say.

So, join the conversation, where we celebrate our love for pets, community, and the occasional Canadian delicacy.

Skarlet's Links:

Linkedin
Website

Bunsen and Beaker's Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook

Support the Show.

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Step into the captivating world of biotech innovation with the delightful MJ Huntsgood, who joins our Science Chat straight from the life sciences hub near Washington DC. MJ's journey from a bug-loving biology aficionado to a biotech manufacturing maven, intricately involved in the development of pharmaceutical marvels like Keytruda, is nothing short of inspiring. Our conversation paints a vivid picture of the science behind everyday wonders, with a splash of MJ's Spider-Man-inspired charm, lifting the veil on the complex process of vaccine manufacturing with stories that connect the dots between high-tech labs and the medications that change lives.

Eager to understand what goes into making the medications you rely on? We've got the insider's take! MJ Huntsgood unravels the transformative shift in biotech manufacturing, from stainless steel tanks to single-use bioreactors, and celebrates the unsung heroes of quality control. You'll get a firsthand look at the teamwork necessary to bring life-saving treatments from the lab bench to bedside. Plus, we tackle the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, demystifying adenovirus vector technology, and addressing public concerns with clarity and care to reveal the meticulous science behind each vial.

We round off this episode with heartfelt discussions on the profound impact vaccines have on our lives, sharing personal tales and the broader societal trust these medical advances command. I delve into my unexpected foray into speculative fiction writing, offering a peek into worlds woven from my imagination. And, of course, no episode would be complete without our weekly pet chat, where lovable cat tales and the shenanigans of Ginger the dog leave us with a sense of the joy and comfort our furry friends provide. Tune in for an episode that bridges the gap between hard science and the human heart, where curiosity meets compassion in every story told.

MJ's Links:

https://twitter.com/MJHuntsgood
All MJ's Links!

Bunsen and Beaker's Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook

Support the Show.

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Kris and I uncover the secrets of lab-grown diamonds, embracing the science that sculpts these lustrous marvels.

We'll even delve into the high-stakes world of diamond selection, sharing a tale from my own quest for the perfect engagement ring.

But the sparkle doesn't stop with gemstones; we're beyond thrilled to welcome Michelle Waitzman to our show. Her insights on the therapeutic wonder of dogs, and her book "Be as Happy as Your Dog," promise to shed light on how our furry friends can teach us to cherish the joys of life, wagging tails and all.

This week's conversation is a heartfelt blend of the technical and the tender, as we examine the remarkable role of therapy dogs in supporting patients through the rigors of hemodialysis. These four-legged companions offer more than comfort; they're a beacon of hope and adherence in a sea of medical monotony. As we pivot from the clinical to the canine, Michelle Waitzman captivates us with her tales of rescue dogs and the paw-prints they leave on our hearts. Her approach melds the wisdom of wagging tails with the principles of positive psychology, unlocking the secret to a more fulfilled existence.

Finally, we wrap up with a nod to life's simple pleasures, and how moderation can make a treat truly a treat—cue memories from "Parks and Recreation" and the exuberance of "Treat Yo' Self" day. From self-publishing trials to pet antics, we share a slice of our lives, including the gentle giant, Bunsen, and his escapades as a misunderstood 'big baby' dog!

Michelle's Links!
Book!
Website

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook

Support the Show.

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Caught in a gust of post-blizzard bliss, Bunsen's snowy romp reminds me of the simple joys our pets bring into our lives.

Ginger's clever feline shenanigans, creating a cat food piñata, had me in stitches, proving once again that our four-legged companions are adept at sprinkling humor throughout our daily routines.

This week's episode is brimming with tales of mischief and warmth, from Ginger and Beaker vying for the remnants of my spicy tuna lunch to the collective nod we all share as pet parents facing quirky challenges. We celebrate those small victories and the undeniable bond between us and our pets, exploring the emotive tapestry that makes each of our furry friend's personalities so endearing and sometimes utterly unpredictable.

Amidst the laughter, we navigate the complexities of pet behavior, acknowledging that even the most harmonious of homes can experience tension. Join us as we unwrap these tales and tips with the infectious enthusiasm of a chat among friends, all the while marveling at the unique quirks and needs of the animals we hold dear.

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook

Support the Show.

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Have you ever wondered about the mysterious connections we share with our four-legged friends, even beyond their passing?   Maybe some of you have superhuman sweat!  You'll have to listen on!

Losing a pet can leave a void filled with sorrow and, sometimes, unexplainable occurrences that offer solace in the midst of grief. We'll navigate the delicate terrain of pet loss with a study by Dr. Jen Golbeck, delving into supernatural experiences that challenge the boundaries of our understanding.

 Discover how these encounters serve as therapeutic touchstones, providing comfort to many who have loved and lost their animal companions. Plus, prepare to be inspired by tales of quiet kindness in schools, revealing the often-overlooked acts that foster an environment of empathy and emotional intelligence.

Dr. Golbeck's Study
B.A,R,K.
Bark on Twitter (X)

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook

Support the Show.

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

This week's bonus podcast is an eclectic mix of travel hijinks, pet antics, and celestial phenomena. We discuss the unique challenges of selecting a rental car equipped for the future, navigating the technology frontier, and the joy of witnessing an eclipse in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Our furry companions Bunsen and Beaker might not have joined us on the trip, but they certainly provided plenty of stories to share, including Beaker's regal birthday bash preparation.

Our community segment is where the heart truly lies, as we welcome stories from our listeners like Paula, who shares her quirky eclipse viewing techniques and pet sitting adventures. We laugh over the escapades of grooming Trixie and invite valuable tips from our fellow pet parents. Meanwhile, we ponder the finer points of pet nutrition, celebrate Beaker's fourth birthday, and highlight our delightful encounters with some standout canine personalities, Kuno and Chesney. It's this sense of shared experience that binds us all, and we're delighted to have such engaging contributions to our conversation.

Wrapping up, safety takes center stage as we tackle the topic of transporting larger dogs in vehicles and ensuring their well-being. A listener's practical concerns spark a discussion on harnesses and safe travel, reminding us of the responsibilities that come with the joy of pet ownership. As we say goodbye, we extend a heartfelt thanks to our community, including Indra from the positivity vibe tribe, for their unwavering support and shared stories. This episode celebrates the special moments with our pets, the excitement of travel, and the profound connections we share with our four-legged friends – all under the shadow of a solar eclipse.

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook

Support the Show.

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Back from the eclipse!

Ok let's delve into how the simple act of writing and ditching our negative thoughts, inspired by a Japanese study, could be the outlet we've been searching for.

I also weave in a heartening snippet of pet science, revealing the profound influence our furry companions wield over children's lives, and set the stage for a fascinating discussion with conservation biologist

Sam Helle, whose passion for wildlife conservation ignites our conversation with tales from her path into this vital field.

Embark on a journey with us as we navigate the dense terrain of tiger conservation, guided by Sam Helle's insights into the admirable progress of Nepal's community forestry and the ambitious WWF's TX2 initiative. The narrative of how Nepal nearly tripled its tiger population is not just a success story; it's a clarion call to action, reminding us of the potency of localized conservation strategies. In this engaging narrative, we also offer guidance for eco-conscious tourists and introduce a children's book designed to stoke the flames of curiosity in young, aspiring biologists and conservationists.

As we wrap up, prepare to be moved by stories of the animal kingdom, from Gwendolyn, the fiercely protective collie-border collie mix, to the paralyzing power of a tiger's roar. These anecdotes underline the profound connections between humans and animals, from the humorous misconceptions children have to the unique bonds pets form with their families.

Until next week!



Sam's Links
https://twitter.com/samanthaiam
https://www.projectconservationfund.org/
https://www.amazon.ca/Tiger-Young-Zoologist-First-Stripes/dp/1684493595

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook

Support the Show.

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Prepare to be tattooed with knowledge as we trace the lines of ancient artistry on the skin of Otzi the Iceman, whose 5,200-year-old tattoos might just share a lineage with the buzzing machines in your local tattoo parlor. Ever caught yourself in that high-pitched cooing when talking to your pets or a baby? It's not just you—it turns out there's a science to our soppy speech, and we're unpacking the adorable why's in this episode.

Mary Reiter, a wizard of Geographic Information Systems, charts her course from a childhood awash with globes and atlases to becoming a maestro of maps and spatial data. While your phone's map app casually leads you to the nearest coffee shop, the GIS technology behind it is revolutionizing our world in ways you've probably never imagined. Mary helps us navigate this terrain, sharing how satellite imagery and data management are more than just waypoints on a map—they are tools that shape our understanding of the world.

Finally, get ready for a tail-wagging conclusion as we share chuckles over pet antics and the unexpected friendships that blossom between our four-legged family members. And if you've ever wondered who first thought to computerize the world of mapping, Mary drops a super fact about the Canadian pioneer of GIS. This episode is not only a journey through time and technology but a tribute to the curiosity that guides us, the laughter that binds us, and the pets that bring joy to our steps along the way.

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook

Support the Show.

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Have you ever pondered the intersection where cutting-edge technology meets the human mind? Prepare to be captivated as we navigate the fascinating realm of brain-computer interfaces like Neuralink. Alongside our insightful discussion on the ethical considerations of these devices, we highlight Nolan Arbaugh's remarkable ability to play chess using nothing but his thoughts, thanks to Neuralink's implant.

But our journey doesn't stop at the wonders of the human brain. We also turn our attention to our four-legged companions, diving into research that suggests dogs may have a deeper understanding of language than we once believed. We share touching stories about our own pets, Bunsen and Beaker, that echo the findings of scientists and challenge our assumptions about animal cognition. And we don't shy away from the less cuddly topics, like the potential risks of brain-eating amoebas from seemingly innocuous activities such as nose rinsing.

From the chemicals lurking in our homes that could be impacting our neurological health, to the awe-inspiring discovery of celestial fragments from the early days of the Milky Way, this episode is a rollercoaster of emotion and intellect.

Don't miss this episode; it's an experience that will leave your heart, and your mind, wonderfully full.

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook

Support the Show.

For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd