Being a Scientist

#18 Cassandra Fieldson: The Science of Mosquitoes: Beyond the Bite

Mosquitoes are one of the most disliked insects — but how much do we actually understand about them? In this episode, I’m joined by Cassandra Fieldson, who studies mosquitoes and brings a refreshing, curiosity-driven perspective to understanding them. Together, we explore the lifecycle of mosquitoes, how they are bred and studied in research, and clear up some common misconceptions — including the surprising fact that most mosquitoes don’t feed on blood. We also dive into their ecological role — from pollination to their place in the food chain — and what their presence tells us about how nature works as a system. This conversation is a reminder that even the most overlooked or disliked creatures can reveal something fascinating when we take the time to understand them. [science podcast, mosquito lifecycle, do mosquitoes drink blood, ecology and food chain, science of insects, biology explained simply, nature and ecosystems]

#18 teaser: Exploring Why Mosquitoes Exist with Cassandra Fieldson

Mosquitoes are often seen as nothing more than a nuisance — but do they actually have a purpose? In this conversation with Cassandra, we explore their role in ecosystems, from pollination to their place in the food chain and their function as decomposers in early life stages. It’s a simple and eye-opening look at how even the most disliked species can play a role in maintaining balance in nature.

#16 teaser: Microbes Producing Human Proteins by Joni Symon

How can microbes be used to produce human proteins? In this clip, Joni Symon explains precision fermentation — a process where a human gene is introduced into microbes, allowing them to produce proteins efficiently due to their rapid growth. It’s a simple yet powerful example of how biotechnology is transforming the way we produce essential biological materials.

#17 teaser: Beginning of Life inside a womb by Dr. Deepak Modi

How does an embryo actually attach during pregnancy? In this short clip, Dr. Deepak Modi explains the fascinating “cross-talk” between the embryo and the endometrium — the lining of the uterus that is only one cell thick. Before implantation happens, the embryo and the uterus communicate in a delicate biological interaction that helps start the earliest stage of life. A simple and fascinating look at one of the most remarkable processes in human biology.

#15 Alex Dainis: Why the 5-Second Rule Doesn’t Work (and Other Science Surprises)

We often grow up hearing science “rules” and simple explanations — like the famous five-second food rule or the idea that DNA is the main character running everything inside our cells. But science is rarely that simple. In this conversation with geneticist and science communicator Dr. Alex Dainis, we explore what happens when curiosity meets real scientific investigation. From testing the five-second rule myth, to understanding why hesitation shows up when we try something new, to unpacking the surprising teamwork happening inside our cells, Alex brings science to life in a way that feels relatable and human. This episode is a reminder that science isn’t just about facts — it’s about asking questions, challenging assumptions, and staying curious about the world around us. [science communication, science myths, Genetics, women in science, science podcast, learning mindset]