Brent Valentine & Keller Kramer

Discovering Academia

Education EN ↓ 90 episodes

Discovering Academia is an interdisciplinary podcast, with some of the world’s greatest thinkers and researchers. Brent and Keller sit down with these academics to have conversations about their background, research, passions and ways for others to get involved. Episodes last for roughly an hour, and they cover a plethora of topics. Our goal with these chats is to connect different fields in higher education and get people thinking across disciplines. We want to show off amazing research, introduce young students to potential career options, and bring together open-minded thinkers. We are stil...

Author

Brent Valentine & Keller Kramer

Category

Education

Podcast website

www.discoveringacademia.com

Latest episode

Jun 4, 2026

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Episodes

#039 - Giuseppe Ugazio: Neuroeconomics, Blended Finance & AI in the Future of Philanthropy 05.01.2024

In the latest episode of Discovering Academia, we're joined by Giuseppe Ugazio, an expert in Behavioral Philanthropy from the University of Geneva. Delve into a fascinating conversation with Professor Ugazio as he explores the intersection of moral philosophy, neuroeconomics, and behavioral science in philanthropy. He offers deep insights into how we value human lives and money, highlighting the i...

#038 - Bouke van Gorp: Cultural Geography, Media & Our Place in the Built Environment 29.12.2023

Bouke van Gorp is a Professor of Geosciences at Utrecht University in the Netherlands.  Her research focuses on Human Geography, Spatial Planning, and Geographic Education. In this episode, we talk about how geography helps us understand the world and its interconnectedness. We also discuss how the study of geography helps individual regions maintain their identities, as well as the role of media...

#037 - Silvia Mihaila: Organ-On-Chip Technology & The Future of Medicine 27.11.2023

Today we talked with Silvia Mihaila, Professor of Pharmacology at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. Her research focus lies in developing organ-on-chip models. These advanced in vitro systems can mimic the structure and function of many different organs. By utilizing these models, researchers can study specific biological processes without relying on animal experimentation, while also integra...

#036 - Aneesh Raghunandan: ESG Scores, Greenwashing & Corporate Misconduct 10.11.2023

Explore the world of environmental, social, governance in finance with Professor Aneesh Raghunandan on the latest episode of Discovering Academia. In this discussion, we delve into the nuances of ESG in financial institutions, covering its emergence, outcomes, and more. Discover the truth about ESG funds, including their tendency to underperform, impact on carbon emissions and profit, and the pers...

#035 - Galit Ashkenazi-Golan: Game Theory & AI Price Collusion 04.11.2023

Join us as we dive into the world of Game Theory and Artificial Intelligence with Professor Galit Ashkenazi Golan from the London School of Economics. In this episode, we explore the fundamentals of game theory and how it has evolved. We also discuss the profound impact of artificial intelligence on game theory models, addressing questions about its influence on corporate pricing strategies, its i...

#034 - Mohammad Sadoghi: Blockchain Technologies, Decentralization & How to Become an Extraordinary Human 27.10.2023

In this episode, we speak with Mohammad, who shares his journey and experience in the field of blockchain technology. Mohammad starts by discussing his work in making analytics real-time and unifying transactional and analytical platforms. He then delves into his interest in blockchain and how he saw an opportunity to explore secure transactions within this context. Mohammad highlights the differe...

#033 - Dewi Cahya Ambarwati: Indonesian Culture & Traditional Performance Arts 18.10.2023

Dewi Cahya Ambarwati is a Professor of Arts and Cultural Management in the Department of Languages at Gadja Mada University in Indonesia. Her work spans across many facets of Indonesian culture, looking at how media, discourse, religion, tourism and art intersect with the development of cultural identity. In this episode Professor Dewi highlights the importance of tolerance in Indonesia given the...

#032 - Greg Pasternack: Hydrology, Rivers & Environmentalism 09.10.2023

Join Greg Pasternack as we journey through the world of rivers, landscapes, and water. Explore how rivers have shaped our planet's unique landforms and nurtured diverse ecosystems. Uncover the intricate science behind it all, with a focus on hydrology, geomorphology, and ecohydraulics. Gain insight into the impact of societal decisions on water quality and availability. We'll discuss everything fr...

#031 - John Largier: Ocean Currents, Nearshore Ecosystems & Environmental Policy 02.10.2023

Dive into the captivating world of oceanography and environmental science with our latest podcast episode featuring Professor John Largier of UC Davis. Discover the delicate balance of life in the thin surface layer, and gain a deeper understanding of upwelling, a vital process that fuels ocean productivity and supports fish populations, accounting for around 20% of the world's catch. We also dive...

#030 - Bryan Enderle: Success in Chemistry & the Coexistence of God and Science 22.09.2023

Join us for a captivating episode with Bryan Enderle that delves deep into the intriguing relationship between chemistry and the discussion of God and Science. Enderle explains the administrative logistics behind running UC Davis’s undergraduate Chemistry series with over 12,000 students each year. Professor Enderle provides insightful perspectives on the connection between chemistry and profound...

#029 - Siobhan Brady: Root Systems, Plant Genetics, and Creating Resilient Agriculture 16.09.2023

Join us as we explore the research and fascinating insights shared by Professor Siobhan Brady. In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of roots, their remarkable functions beyond nutrient absorption, and the pivotal role they play in plant resilience. So, get ready for an engaging discussion that promises to enrich your understanding of plant biology and its implications for our planet's fu...

#028 - Andreas Albrecht: Quantum Physics & the Origins of the Universe 06.09.2023

Join us with Professor Andreas Albrecht on a captivating journey into the world of quantum physics and cosmic mysteries. Andreas takes us on a thought-provoking exploration of multiple worlds, quantum computers, and the mind-boggling possibilities they present.    We delve into the complexities of quantum cosmology, touching upon cosmic origins, the age and shape of the universe, and theories invo...

#027 - Tessa Hill: Ocean Environments, Acidification & Climate Change 01.09.2023

Explore the fascinating world of marine science in our latest podcast episode featuring Professor Tessa Hill. She takes us on a journey through coastal areas, highlighting the significance of studying the ocean's depths and mapping the ocean floor. Tessa's research delves into the impact of climate change on our oceans, particularly focusing on ocean acidification caused by rising CO2 levels.    D...

#026 - Warwick Vincent: Polar Expeditions, Climate Change, and Inuit Knowledge 25.08.2023

Join us for a captivating journey into aquatic ecosystems with the esteemed Professor Warwick Vincent, a professor of Limnology and Microbial Ecology at Laval University and former President of Canada’s National Antarctic Committee.    In this episode, he shares his research from cellular techniques to groundbreaking research in polar regions. Immerse yourself in his vivid narratives of expedition...

#025 - Michael Yonan: Rococo & the Vital Role of Art History Today 19.08.2023

Join us as we dive into the captivating world of art history, with Professor Michael Yonan of UC Davis. Professor Yonan explores art accessibility, the enchanting world of Rococo, and the value of studying art history in today’s world.   Professor Yonan describes his specialty, European art and Rococo, spotlighting its allure and charm while weaving in the complexities of art history as a discipli...

#024 - Damien Caillaud: Mountain Gorillas, Behavioral Ecology, & Conservation 11.08.2023

Join us as we dive deep into the fascinating world of animal behavior, shining a spotlight on the enigmatic mountain gorillas and their captivating stories. Professor Damien Caillaud uncovers the mysteries of non-human primate behavior, revealing how these incredible creatures provide vital clues to our own actions.    We shine a spotlight on the majestic mountain gorillas. From male dispersal dyn...

#023 - Ashutosh Bhagwat: The Legality of Free Speech & Social Media 27.07.2023

In this captivating episode, Professor Ashutosh Bhagwat takes center stage as we delve into the debate surrounding the purpose and scope of constitutional rights, with a specific focus on free speech. As the Boochever and Bird Endowed Chair for the Study and Teaching of Freedom and Equality and the Martin Luther King Jr. Professor of Law, Professor Bhagwat delves deep into our constitutional right...

#022 - Geoffrey Schladow: Exploring Lake Tahoe’s Ecosystem From Clarity to Microplastics 20.07.2023

Join us for an exciting episode with Professor Geoff Schladow as we delve into the captivating world of Lake Tahoe's cutting-edge research.  As the director of the prestigious Tahoe Environmental Research Center, Professor Schladow unveils the groundbreaking studies taking place in this sanctuary. Lake Tahoe's unique environment attracts global attention and resources, driving research with profou...

#021 - Jan Nolta: Stem Cells & the Future of Regenerative Medicine 14.07.2023

In this episode, we have Dr. Jan Nolta joining us to discuss her work in stem cells and regenerative medicine. Dr. Nolta explains the different types of stem cells, including adult stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which have the potential to differentiate into any tissue in the body. She talks about the shift away from using embryonic stem cells and the practicality of using...

#020 - Laramie Taylor: What Influences Our Sexual and Romantic Relationships? 07.07.2023

Join us for an engaging conversation with Laramie Taylor, Professor and Department Chair of Communication at UC Davis. With a keen focus on the intersection of media and society, Professor Taylor's research delves into the profound ways in which media shapes our lives within a social context.   In this captivating episode, we dive deep into the realm of the media and its influence on romantic rela...

#019 - Brant Allen: Aquatic Explorations: Lake Tahoe & Why You Need to Get Your Face Wet 30.06.2023

In this captivating episode, we delve into the fascinating world of Lake Tahoe with our guest, Brant Allen, the boat operator and Director of Field Research at UC Davis. Brant discusses the changes in clarity over the years and the use of a Secchi disc for measurement. As we explore the depths and geography of the lake, we gain profound insights into the ecosystem's dynamics.   Brant also sheds li...

#018 - Hildegarde Heymann: All Things Sensory Science & Wine 23.06.2023

Join us in a captivating conversation with Dr. Hildegarde Heymann, distinguished professor and Ray Rossi Endowed Chair in Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis. As a seasoned expert in sensory science, Dr. Heymann shares her extensive knowledge on evaluating various items, including the beloved beverage of wine. In this episode, we dive into the fundamental principles and rich history of sensory sci...

#017 - David Rapson: Electrifying Economics (EV’s & Grid Infrastructure) and the Role of the Federal Reserve 09.06.2023

Join us in this episode as we delve into the fascinating world of economics with our special guest, David Rapson. David is a Chancellor’s Leadership Professor at UC Davis and a senior research economist for the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. We'll be discussing the economics of electrification, with a particular focus on electric vehicles and grid infrastructure. Discover the impact of these adva...

#016 - Flagg Miller: Exploring Islam’s History, Cultural Impact, and the Yemeni Civil War 02.06.2023

Join us in this captivating episode as we dive deep into the history and cultural impact of Islam, as well as the current Civil War in Yemen with Flagg Miller, a Professor and Chair of the Religious Studies department at UC Davis. With a specialization in the Middle East and South Asia, Professor Miller brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our conversation. Delving into the roots of Islam...

#015 - Aaron Smith: Agricultural Econometrics, Biofuels, & the Future of Ethical Technology 26.05.2023

Join us on this exciting episode as we sit down with Aaron Smith, a professor of agricultural economics at UC Davis. As the cluster lead of ethics for the AI institute for Food Systems and co-director of the center for data science and artificial intelligence, Aaron brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. His research focus is on econometrics, commodity markets, agriculture, and e...

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