Ben’s podcasting experience
Ben Rush rediscovered his interest in sound during his PhD program. He started this hobby in 8th grade, and during the beginning of the pandemic, it became more relevant than ever. While confined to his apartment, he wrote comedy scripts, voiced characters, and produced parody podcast episodes. Ben realized that a podcast could be an ideal platform to combine his scientific knowledge, curiosity, digital audio skills, and humor for a meaningful purpose, inspired by Jessica Abel's book "Out on the Wire".
His podcast, "Deeper Than Data," debuted in February 2021 and aimed to humanize science. The goal was to support graduate students and early-career scientists, encourage open and vulnerable leadership among faculty, and enhance public trust in science. The podcast features candid conversations on diverse topics, including personal failures and successes, and strives to show scientists as relatable humans. Science fields ranged from bacteriology to biochemistry, with guests discussing both their professional and personal lives. You can listen to all the episodes below or choose your favorite way to listen here.
The podcast ended with an episode with Adam Kuchnia, Ben's main professor, exploring their working relationship. Deeper Than Data became Ben’s first official step on the path in science communication. Ben’s podcasting days have passed, but he created resources for anyone who is curious and he is still committed to sharing Deeper Than Data episodes to help early career scientists. Resources include:
A podcasting guide on software, decisions for content, interviewing, and more
Badger Talks Podcast originally created, hosted, and produced by Ben is still going strong
For a deeper dive on Ben’s podcasting origin and beyond, check out the Podcasters of CALS article
Ben worked with The Link by the Alda Center for Communicating Science on a 3-part intro to podcasting series: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
Ben was also featured on the podcast “Under the Microscope with Scintica” about his nonlinear path, which you can listen to here.