New ‘Science Spotlight Podcast’ helping CoS make connections

A year ago, Elizabeth Graves turned her reading hobby into a podcast with her friend Liz Schurtz. It’s called “Liz and Liz Get Literary” and the discussions focus on female authors. The two have a blast conversing about their passion, which comes through to the listeners.

The experience also got Graves, a lead administrative assistant at Purdue University Fort Wayne, thinking about proposing a podcast for the College of Science. Luckily, she works next door to Ron Friedman, dean of the college, and he’s usually open to trying new things.

With Graves already owning the necessary equipment, Friedman recently started hosting the “Science Spotlight Podcast,” where he interviews PFW educators about their interests, background, and research.

The first podcast featured Jolene Lawton, clinical assistant professor in the Department of Communication Science and Disorders, followed by Michelle Drouin, the Jack W. Schrey Professor of Psychology, and then Alessandro Selvitella, assistant professor of data science and applied statistics. Other participants have included PFW newcomer Patrick Murphy, assistant professor of psychology, and the trio of Scott Bergeson, assistant professor of biology, Ben Dattilo, professor of geology, and James Farlow, adjunct professor in biological sciences, who discussed their roles in the recently completed mastodon bones display at Walb Student Union.

Along the way, Friedman realized he was enjoying himself.

“I think I’m inquisitive anyway, and I knew I was social, but I think I’ve learned that I know to ask questions at the appropriate times that are relevant,” Friedman said. “I really like thinking on my feet and not knowing exactly what questions I’m going to ask but knowing it needs to flow. I’ve learned I’m not as bad at podcasts as I thought I would be.”

The interviews sound unforced and the relaxed atmosphere makes guests comfortable and encourages them to open up.

The podcast also serves to explore the depth of excellence among the faculty.

“I think it really helps us build a good rapport and relationship,” Friedman said. “Patrick came and talked about his history and what made him decide to go into psychology. It made me get to know him, which is more than I usually get in my interactions. I like that. I just like talking with people, having those conversations.”

But it’s the guests’ time, and he wants them to tell the audience about what they do. According to Friedman, this has also become a new way to market and publicize the CoS, for which he credits Graves. The conversations generally last an hour.

It’s a nice problem to have, but Friedman and Graves have concluded that they currently have more potential guests than they have time, which excites them. Down the road, they also plan on reaching out to students to learn about their experiences and research.

“What I envisioned was letting students know that learning isn’t confined to their major alone,” Graves said. “They can explore opportunities beyond their major, engage with faculty, and discover ways to get involved. We want them to know we’re approachable, here to support their curiosity, and excited to connect them with research, projects, and experiences that make their education even more meaningful. If the podcast allows us to convey that, then it’s wonderful.”