PlanetGeo: The Geology Podcast

Chris is back!! Today we answer the simple question - Why do we see a predictable geologic and topographic progression as we drive from flat plains into mountains? We use examples from Michigan to Tennessee, the Canadian Rockies, Glacier, the Bighorns, Colorado, and the Appalachians to walk through a common sequence: we start on broad areas of mostly flat-lying sedimentary rocks (sandstones, shales, limestones) deposited in shallow seas, rivers, intertidal settings, and deserts; as we approach the range, we cross subtle, long-wavelength, low-amplitude folds that are often hard to notice without measurements; then we enter the fold-and-thrust belt where anticlines, synclines, and large thrust faults stack sedimentary packages and create dramatic ridges, valleys, and cliff faces (thin-skinned deformation). We explain how the growing mountain load flexes the plate to form a foreland basin that fills with sediment eroded off the range, typically thickening and coarsening toward the mountains. Farther inboard, we describe how erosion and unloading help exhume deep, high-grade metamorphic “roots” in metamorphic core complexes (gneiss, schist, and other intensely metamorphosed rocks), and how overthickened crust can later relax and extend, aiding exhumation. We also discuss how some mountain belts preserve suture-related features like ophiolite complexes, while others show subduction-related batholiths (e.g., Sierra Nevada, Idaho Batholith), and we note modern analogs such as the Persian Gulf foreland basin. Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

On this episode of Planet Geo, we welcome Danielle Bennett—a startup operator with a venture capital background (and not a geoscientist by training) who’s been talking with tons of geologists, hydrogeologists, and engineers while helping build a geoscience-adjacent mapping company at Deep Earth Tech. Danielle shares how growing up with entrepreneur parents (who ran a groundwater-focused engineering firm) shaped her path, why she started a social-impact company in college, and how she moved from corporate finance to FinTech and then into venture capital for about six years. They dig into what she’s learned from working with the geoscience community—friendly, non-confrontational, and highly opinionated—and why geoscientists may be slower to found startups (a strong perfection/excellence culture and highly localized expertise). Danielle breaks down “deep tech” in practical terms (asset-heavy and/or science-and-engineering-driven tech), why capital is moving earlier into deep tech, and how VCs are increasingly pulling innovations from universities and incubators. The conversation also gets into which geoscience-adjacent areas feel investable (like shallow geothermal heating/cooling, critical minerals, and renewables) and why groundwater can be harder to fund due to public-agency buying cycles and complex bureaucracy. Danielle closes by defining key funding terms—bootstrapping, debt financing, private equity, and venture capital—plus what VCs look for (why now, why this team, and scale) and common red flags (unclear messaging, weak grasp of numbers, and unjustified mega-rounds). We hope you enjoy this excellent interview! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

In this riveting episode, we catch up with Dr. Jonathan Stock, Chief Scientist for Innovation at NASA's Intelligent Systems Division. We dive deep into the realms of geosciences and discuss how innovation can transform our understanding of the Earth and beyond. From quantum gravity gradiometers to AI-driven geophysical mapping, Dr. Stock reveals the tech that could redefine geospatial exploration. We also ponder why geosciences lag behind other fields in entrepreneurship and innovation and how cross-disciplinary collaborations could be the game-changers we need. Join us as we weave through tales of awe-inspiring geological discoveries and the frontier spirit that keeps the field exciting. Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

In this episode, we bring you a riveting Q&A session with GeoGirl Dr. Rachel Phillips and Dr. Joshua Davies, both experts in geology who explore the mysterious world of banded iron formations (BIFs). We dive deep into what BIFs are, when they formed, and their significance. Josh unpacks the debated origins of these rocks, discussing how they may be the most hotly contested rocks in the geological world due to our limited understanding of their formation process, despite their voluminous presence on Earth. We touch on how BIF layers represent cycles influenced by Milankovitch cycles, and whether microbial activity plays a role in their formation. Josh explains that while BIFs peters out around 1.8 billion years ago, there are unique conditions and debates on secondary processes that impact our current understanding. We humorously explore modern analogs, like weird anoxic lakes, and laugh about how our Earth would need a huge meteorite impact to revert to BIF-forming conditions—a scenario we're not quite rooting for! Finally, we ponder the possibility of extraterrestrial BIFs, symbolizing our endless curiosity about space and deep time. This one’s a dense, iron-packed dive for sure—just like BIFs! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

In this episode, we are kicking off a new series on Geology News. We delve into why Venezuela is rich in oil, the complex tectonic interactions, and the geological formations that make it a hotspot for heavy, sour crude oil. We also take a humorous stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about our hard rock geology days and the unintuitive yet captivating world of sedimentary rocks. Join us as we explore why Venezuelan oil isn't just black gold but a treasure trove of geological intrigue. Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

To kick off Season 6 of the Planet Geo Podcast, we invited Doug Heller, a Penn State alum and geoscience finance guru, to explore investment risk in the geosciences. Doug shares thrilling stories about turning modest funds into substantial investments and offers invaluable advice for budding geologists and students. The episode delves into Doug's journey from exploring oil in the Gulf of Mexico to managing a complex bankruptcy case, and running Sun Specialty Products. Doug sheds light on how to think about and manage risk, and provides tips for those interested in geoscience careers, the critical minerals sector, and much more. Join in for a fascinating conversation about the crossroads of geology and finance, complete with insightful risk analysis and career guidance for the next generation of geoscientists. Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

In this episode of Planet Geo, we dive deep into the fascinating phenomenon of petrification as we wrap up our season five re-release holiday series. From the beauty of petrified wood to its rare yet awe-inspiring occurrence, we explore how this natural wonder forms. We also tease exciting updates for season six, including segments with Dr. Rachel Phillips and interviews with top geoscientists. Strap in geologists and rock enthusiasts, because we're about to make some solid gains in your understanding of mother nature's mineralization marvels. And don't forget, the Camp Geo mobile app and our website have a treasure trove of geology content waiting for you! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

Welcome back to Planet Geo, the podcast where we delve into the wonders of our planet's geology, how it works, and why it matters. In this episode, part three of our holiday re-release series, we’re breaking down the basics of rock identification and collection techniques. Chris and I tackle the popular question: how do you identify rocks? We provide a general strategy perfect for budding rock hounds and outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, stay tuned for new episodes and exciting modifications coming to Planet Geo’s sixth year, including deep dives with Dr. Rachel Phillips and geology news segments with Dr. Josh Davies. Follow us on social media and check out our Camp Geo mobile app for tons of free, cool content! Today's discussion dives into the nitty-gritty of rock identification. We walk through our methods, distinguishing between sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks, and share handy tips like carrying a magnifying lens, a little acid bottle, and a hammer to reveal a rock’s true identity. We also chat about reliable resources like the Roadside Geology series to help you understand the geology of specific areas. We emphasize the importance of breaking rocks open to see fresh surfaces and narrow down your identification process methodically. Remember, even seasoned geologists take samples back to the lab for further analysis! Finally, we talk about the value of curiosity and the learning process. Whether it’s being the 'annoying student' who asks all the questions or participating in practical exercises like visiting a gravel pit, there’s a lot to gain from hands-on experience. We encourage you to do some research before your next trip and embrace the joy of discovery. If you have more questions or need help, hit us up at Planet Geo Cast on Gmail or on social media. Happy rock hunting and may your geological inquiries always rock! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

In this episode, we dive into the thrilling hobby of rock hounding, sharing our personal adventures and offering a Rocks and Minerals holiday re-release theme. We'll guide you through the basics of rock hounding, including crucial tips, resources, and a few funny anecdotes about our own experiences in gravel pits, quarries, and even snake-infested areas. Also, don't forget to follow us on social media, download the Camp Geo mobile app, and give us your feedback as we transition into the new year with more listener-focused content. So grab your gear, let's get digging, and marvel at the natural beauty of our planet! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

In this episode, we're back with the fabulous Dr. Rachel Phillips, also known as Geo Girl on YouTube, diving into part two of our intriguing Q&A session. This time, we cover listener questions about early Earth geology, the moon-forming impact, geochemistry, and much more. Spoiler alert: we journey into the cosmic and tectonic weeds, so grab your scientific hats as we ponder if the moon-forming whammy kickstarted plate tectonics and its broader implications on our planet! The center of our discussion revolves around a burning question: Did the moon-forming impact trigger plate tectonics? From vigorous debates on early Earth’s behavior to the staggering differences between Earth and its 'toxic twin' Venus, we leave no stone unturned—or unmelted. Dr. Phillips and Jesse examine the evidence, debunk some age-old myths (bye-bye, late heavy bombardment), and think about how a cataclysmic impact billions of years ago might have reset our planetary clock. Oh, and don't get us started on whether Earth or moon rocks are older—trust us, it's complicated. As we approach the end of our cosmic conversation, we speculate about how such colossal impacts might have played a role in developing early life on Earth. Did these monumental collisions cook up the perfect conditions for life's early proliferation, or did they serve as the ultimate reset button? Join us on this epic journey through time, magma oceans, and cratered landscapes. And hey, if you have more burning questions or just want to say hello, hit us up on all the social medias at Planet Geo Cast or visit our website planetgeocast.com. Cheers to more geological deep dives in the future! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

Jesse joins forces with Dr. Rachel Phillips, AKA Geo Girl, to tackle viewer questions about Earth's oldest rocks. We cover a wide range of topics, from how Earth's age is calculated using meteorites to the intriguing details of zircon dating. We also discuss the beginnings of plate tectonics, early continents, and the much-debated timeline of Earth's geological history. This in-depth discussion is packed with scientific insights, humorous quips, and plenty of geologic puns to keep you entertained. Don't forget to check out our Camp Geo mobile app for a deep dive into Earth's ancient rocks! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

In this episode of Planet Geo, we share some exciting updates as Chris steps back a bit. Don’t worry; Chris will still join us regularly, but you'll also be hearing more often from fantastic guests like Dr. Rachel Phillips, Dr. Mike Ackerson, and Dr. Josh Davies. We’re diving deep into the geoscience topics we all love and bringing you insightful interviews with geoscience leaders. We’re also eager to hear your feedback, so please reach out on our social media or website with your thoughts on the show's future direction. Before we usher in the new year, we're revisiting some classic episodes, including “Rocks and Rules: Putting Things into Order,” where we lay out the foundational principles of geology. From superposition to cross-cutting relations and inclusions, we tackle the basic yet essential concepts that make geology so fascinating. Imagine sorting a giant puzzle—except it's with rocks! Whether you're in the field, driving past road cuts, or just curious about those layered rocks on your hike, these principles bring a newfound appreciation for the Earth’s history. We also highlight the invaluable role of index fossils in correlating rock sequences across vast distances, even globally. So, if you're a puzzle enthusiast or a geology newbie looking to deepen your understanding, this episode is for you. Join us as we simplify these scientific principles and show you how they fit into the grand story of our planet's past. And don’t forget—your input is vital as we look to make Planet Geo awesome not just for today, but for years to come! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

Join us as we dive into an awe-inspiring chat with Dr. Josh Davies – an expert in high-precision geochronology! Josh and Jesse go way back to their University of Alberta days, and in this episode, they unravel a groundbreaking project involving banded iron formations. Together, they explore how these ancient rocks bring to light the Earth's history, dating back 2.5 billion years. Discover how the research reveals the Moon-Earth distance and the length of days billions of years ago. Plus, stick around to hear their field stories and the future of geochronology! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

In this episode, we dive deep into the composition and formation of the continental crust! We explore the tough questions about what makes up our continents, debunking some rudimentary class teachings and revealing the misunderstandings in our current knowledge! But don't worry—it’s not all sedimentary! We also ponder the role of basalt and Granite, the conundrum of exhumed terrain, and even how we get our data from the deepest boreholes. Plus, they touch on the notion that water might just be the secret ingredient to building continents! Ready to rock? Let’s dig in! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

Ready to rock your buildings with some fascinating geology tales? Join us as we chat with the amazing David B. Williams, author of 'Stories in Stone.' David shares his insights on the hidden geological marvels in urban landscapes and the history behind some iconic building stones. From Seattle's local quarries to Chicago's memorable marbles, this episode is a treasure trove of stone-cold facts! Dive in for a journey that melds earth science and architectural history in the most intriguing way. Also, stick around to hear about David's adventures as a park ranger and how that led him to become a geology writer and guide. Don't take this episode for granite! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

Join us in this action-packed final episode of our Gettysburg series as we uncover the rock-solid weathering patterns that shaped one of the most famous battles in history! Standing on the historic battleground, you'll see how two supercontinent formation and breakup events have influenced the topography and geology of Gettysburg. Discover the impact of weathering and time on the eastern U.S landscape, and how these factors played a crucial role in the outcome of the Battle of Gettysburg. From the rugged Blue Ridge Mountains to the fertile soils of the Great Valley, we dive deep into the geological features that made Gettysburg a strategic focal point. Packed with geological insights and battlefield stories, this episode captures it all—rock formations, troop movements, and even a bit of friendly banter! So grab your rock hammer and join us as we dig into the legacy of Gettysburg. Geology wins again! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

Join us for a deep dive into the world of flash floods in this exciting episode! Navigate the rapid waters of this intense topic with Chris and Jesse, as we unravel the captivating geoscience behind these dramatic events. From the devastating impacts of flash floods to the intricate balance of soil, vegetation, and slope, we leave no stone unturned. Discover how human activities and climate change are setting the stage for more frequent flash floods and learn the innovative engineering solutions designed to mitigate their effects. Buckle up and get ready to enhance your infiltration knowledge—because this is one flood of information you won't want to miss! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

In this action-packed episode of our Gettysburg Geology series, we dig deep into the dynamic geological history of South Mountain. Discover how this towering terrain played a pivotal role in the Battle of Gettysburg, from offering a sneaky passage for the Confederates to serving as a dramatic retreat route. We explore the fascinating world of faults, folds, and the incredible rocks that shape this region. From ancient basalt and rhyolite to the rugged sandstones that make up many of the highest peaks, you'll be on the edge of your seat as we unearth the layers of history and geology intertwined in this stunning landscape. Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

In this episode of our visual podcast series, journey back to the battlefields of Gettysburg to unearth the geological forces that played a pivotal role in history. Dive deep with Herr Professor Dr. Reimink and Chris Bolhuis as they explore the York Haven Sill and Rossville Dykes, parts of the massive Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP). Discover how these ancient volcanic events potentially triggered the end-Triassic mass extinction. Packed with juicy geochronology details, this episode mixes wit, history, and science—one sedimentary layer at a time. Tune in to see how geology not only provides the high ground but also might have set the stage for a global biological turnover. Remember, in the battle of fossils and igneous intrusions, geology always wins! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/

Join us on a rockin' journey as we explore the fascinating tale of Potomac Marble and its role in rebuilding the US Capitol after the War of 1812. From the emotional experience of visiting ancient quarry sites to the intricate details of fanglomerates and alluvial fans, we uncover the geology behind this historically significant stone. Whether you're a rock enthusiast or just love a good story, this episode has something for you. Don't miss out on learning how Leesburg Fanglomerate shaped American history and the geological processes that made it so unique! Plus, find out why keeping your 'rock friends' updated is crucial! Download the CampGeo app now at this link. On the app you can get tons of free content, exclusive images, and access to our Geology of National Parks series. You can also learn the basics of geology at the college level in our FREE CampGeo content series - get learning now! Like, Subscribe, and leave us a Rating! —————————————————— Instagram: @planetgeocast Twitter: @planetgeocast Facebook: @planetgeocast Support us: https://planetgeocast.com/support-us Email: planetgeocast@gmail.com Website: https://planetgeocast.com/