The Big Blue Rock Pod
Welcome to the Big Blue Rock Pod, produced by the Kentucky Geological Survey, at the University of Kentucky. This podcast is a fun, conversational approach to discussing all things geology and earth processes. We primarily focus on Kentucky. We talk emerging ideas in research, along with classic topics in earth science for all levels of interest.
Episodes

Thursday Jul 27, 2023
Ep. 20: Landslides are not bringing us down
Thursday Jul 27, 2023
Thursday Jul 27, 2023
It's a game of musical chairs on this episode of the BBRP. KGS landslides expert Matt moves into the guest chair, while Doug and newcomer Rebekah co-host the episode. We discuss how Matt started researching landslides, the types and causes of landslides, what landslide research looks like at KGS and nationally, landslides related to the July 2022 eastern Kentucky floods, Matt's bad-fitting suits, crashing drones, and more.

Wednesday Jun 28, 2023
Ep. 19: Hello! Nice to Meteorite You
Wednesday Jun 28, 2023
Wednesday Jun 28, 2023
Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss all things meteorites with KGS geologist and current graduate student Ethan Davis. We get into differences among space rocks, planet evolution, impact craters around the world, Chicxulub mysteries, "meteorwrongs", meteorite composition, meteorites in Kentucky, the newest meteorite found in Kentucky, and much more!

Friday May 26, 2023
Ep. 18: Kentucky Cooperative Extension -- more than free soil testing
Friday May 26, 2023
Friday May 26, 2023
Matt, Doug, and Sarah talk about everything extension with UK Professor Brad Lee, from soil and water quality to dog poop and lawn care. We also explore the role of extension in the University’s land grant mission and UK Extension’s environmental and educational services.
This week’s top takeaway? Check out the soil tests available from your local county extension office. Find the office online at https://extension.ca.uky.edu/county, or just google it.

Thursday Apr 27, 2023
Ep. 17: Schist Geologists Say
Thursday Apr 27, 2023
Thursday Apr 27, 2023
Matt, Sarah, and Doug have a lively discussion about geology jargon, odd and old geoscience concepts, and weird terminology that geologists love to use. KGS geologist Meredith Swallom is the guest and helps us decipher rocks vs. minerals, lithification, unconformities, how awesome (and outdated) graywacke is, accretionary wedges, and much more!

Friday Mar 31, 2023
Ep. 16: Exploring Cumberland Gap
Friday Mar 31, 2023
Friday Mar 31, 2023
"I'm just gonna to go ahead and say it. I love Cumberland Gap."
Matt, Sarah, and Doug discuss all things Cumberland Gap National Historical Park! KGS geologist William Andrews is our guest and we get into the park history, geologic setting, unique park features, Ridge Trail, rodents in cabins, Pinnacle Overlook, Hensley Settlement, the Tunnel, the first geology field camp, and much more!