Joyful Microbe

Oysters can be risky to eat raw, but what microbes are actually responsible? Is there more to it than just chance? In this episode, I talk with Dr. Rachel Diner, Assistant Professor at the University of Memphis researching aquatic microbes, to find out.Here, we discuss the hidden world of bacteria in oysters, exploring the roles these organisms play in the environment and their impact on human health. Our conversation digs into the complexities of Vibrio bacteria and the environmental conditions that influence their prevalence, but it’s also full of practical advice.Listen to the episode to learn how there’s a lot more to the story when it comes to oysters and the bacteria they harbor.Topics covered in this episode:How Rachel got interested in microbiology and became an Assistant Professor researching aquatic microbes at the University of MemphisHow we get sick from oysters and what microbes are involvedCan you tell if oysters will make you sick from smelling them?How does Vibrio get into oysters?How much Vibrio will make us sick?The roles of Vibrios in the environmentHow environmental factors (water temperature, salinity, and nutrient levels) influence the prevalence and virulence of microbes in oyster populationsAre there certain times of year when it’s safer to eat oysters? (Only months that end in R)Rachel’s advice as a microbiologist when it comes to oystersMicrobiology misconceptionsShifts in the field of non-model systems’ microbiomesAt-home microbiology activity: Winogradsky columns (learn some helpful tips on running these columns)JOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/oyster-microbiology-rachel-diner/AT-HOME MICROBIOLOGY ACTIVITY: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/winogradsky-column/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

Gut health has become a major topic in wellness, influencing everything from grocery choices to discussions on social media. Research increasingly shows the gut microbiome’s role in digestion, immunity, and even mood. But with so much information available, it’s hard to separate science from trend. In this episode, I talk with Kristina Campbell, a science writer known for her expertise in the microbiome. As the author of Gut Health for Dummies, Kristina shares practical, research-based insights to help readers understand what gut health really involves — and how to make confident, informed choices.Topics covered in this episode:How Kristina got interested in microbiology and her path to becoming a science writer and gut health ambassadorWhat is gut health and how does it relate to the gut microbiome?What does the gut microbiome do for us?What motivated Kristina to write Gut Health for DummiesHow lifestyle factors can impact gut healthHow diet impacts gut healthOverview of “Biotics” - probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbioticsA common myth about probioticsWhy microbes can’t necessarily be labeled strictly as good and badGut health trendsHow to assess scientific informationAt-home microbiology activity: Kid-Friendly Gut Health Activity: Make Your Own Emulsifier-Free DressingJOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/gut-health-kristina-campbell/AT-HOME MICROBIOLOGY ACTIVITY: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/gut-health-emulsifiers-activity/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

Coloring books aren't just for kids anymore. In fact, one unique coloring book is bringing the fascinating world of bacteria to life for all ages. In this Joyful Microbe podcast episode, we’re exploring "Coloured Bacteria from A to Z" with the scientists behind this delightful educational resource.Whether you're a parent looking to spark your child's interest in science, a teacher searching for engaging hands-on learning materials, or an adult who enjoys the calming act of coloring, this microbiology coloring book offers something for everyone. By combining scientific accuracy with artistic creativity, the authors have created a one-of-a-kind tool for exploring the microbial realm.Too often, bacteria are portrayed in a negative light, associated only with illness and disease. This limited perspective can make it difficult to appreciate the incredible diversity and beneficial roles bacteria play in our world.But the authors of "Coloured Bacteria from A to Z," Drs. Sarah Wettstadt and Noémie Matthey are on a mission to change that. Through their coloring book, they aim to foster curiosity, dispel common misconceptions, and showcase the "superpowers" of these microscopic marvels through a balanced perspective.Topics covered in this episode:How two scientists with microbiology backgrounds came together to create the "Coloured Bacteria from A to Z" coloring bookThe unique format of the book, featuring one bacterium for each letter of the alphabetThe authors' strategies for balancing scientific accuracy with artistic representation in the illustrationsChallenges the authors faced in selecting which bacteria to feature and how to convey key concepts in a simple, engaging wayWays teachers, parents, and curious learners of all ages can use the coloring book to explore the microbial worldInsights into common misconceptions about bacteria that the authors hope to address through this educational resourceLet’s dive into the colorful, joyful world of bacteria! After listening to this episode, you’ll be ready to show off your microbiology artistic skills.JOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/bacterial-world-coloring-book/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

Plastic waste in our oceans is a significant problem, but some bacteria might offer a solution. Did you know that certain bacteria can break down plastic?Plastic pollution affects wildlife and can even enter our food and water. As plastic production increases, finding better ways to manage this material is essential.Current recycling methods are not very efficient. Most plastic ends up in landfills or the environment after just one use, and it can take centuries to degrade.Researchers are investigating plastic-degrading microbes and enzymes that could improve recycling. These microbes can break plastic into its original building blocks, allowing for more effective recycling.Join me as I talk with Angie Beckett, a researcher at the University of Portsmouth, about the potential of plastic-degrading microbes to enhance recycling and reduce plastic pollution.In this episode, we will explore:The discovery of plastic-eating bacteriaHow microbes break plastic down and their potential for large-scale useChallenges in finding and engineering efficient plastic degradersUsing portable DNA sequencing to discover new microbial solutionsThe importance of collaboration in applying microbiology to real-world problemsAt-home microbiology activity: Find Plastic-Degrading Bacteria via Sequencing SimulationJOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/plastic-degradation-angie-beckett/AT-HOME MICROBIOLOGY ACTIVITY: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/plastic-degrading-bacteria-activity/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

Have you ever noticed little white fluffy spots or yellowish patches on your lettuce at the grocery store? This could be downy mildew, a microbe that infects lettuce and other leafy greens.This microbe might not be well-known, but it's of great importance due to its effects on the agriculture industry and the food we buy. It poses a significant challenge for farmers by potentially wiping out entire crops. If we unknowingly purchase lettuce or herbs infected with downy mildew from the organic section, we might end up with unappealing produce.Understanding downy mildew can help us make informed choices at the store and gain insight into the challenges faced by farmers in controlling this pathogen.So, in this episode we'll learn about downy mildew from plant pathology researcher Dr. Kelsey Wood. She'll explain what this organism is, how to identify it, and the latest research aiming to control it in a more sustainable way. We'll also cover its life cycle, genetics, and impacts on agriculture. Tune in to discover this intriguing plant pathogen.Topics covered in this episode:What downy mildew is and its life cycleWhy downy mildew is not a fungusHow downy mildew spreadsDowny mildew’s impact on agricultureSpotting downy mildew in your local grocery storeDiscovering a highly resistant lettuce varietyAt-home microbiology activities: grocery store hunt and vinegar wash experimentJOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/downy-mildew-kelsey-wood/AT-HOME MICROBIOLOGY ACTIVITY: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/downy-mildew-activity/AT-HOME MICROBIOLOGY ACTIVITY: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/mold-vinegar-wash-activity/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

Have you ever stopped to think about the bustling world of life thriving right on your skin? Billions of microscopic organisms, collectively known as the skin microbiome, call this complex ecosystem home, playing a vital role in our health.Many of us are unaware of the intricate dance between our skin and its microbial residents. This delicate balance can tip, potentially leading to various health concerns. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating realm of the skin microbiome with microbiologist Dr. Aayushi Uberoi.Dr. Uberoi shares her research on how the skin microbiome strengthens our largest organ's crucial barrier function. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of skin microbes.Topics covered in this episode:Dr. Uberoi's journey to microbiologyThe skin's barrier functions and ecosystemThe role of the skin microbiome in health and diseaseMicrobiome changes in skin disordersPotential for novel skin microbiome-based therapiesAntibacterial soap misconceptionsAt-home microbiology activity: Accessible Microscopy: Discovering Microbes with a FoldscopeJOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/skin-microbiome-aayushi-uberoi/AT-HOME MICROBIOLOGY ACTIVITY: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/foldscope-activity/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

Are you curious about how microbes are involved in creating a more sustainable world? Those tiny, often-overlooked organisms hold a remarkable secret — the power to break down chemicals through biodegradation. Imagine a world where plastics and other challenging compounds, often seen as environmental villains, could be transformed into environmentally-friendly products.In this episode, I chat with Dr. Jhonatan Hernandez Valdes to discuss how these microbes are revolutionizing our approach to sustainability. He shares about his role as a microbiologist at Nouryon, investigating and understanding how microbes degrade chemicals in the environment. Ultimately, his research aims to help in developing more environmentally friendly products.Tune in if you want to explore how we can work with microbes to leverage their transformative powers to pursue a greener, cleaner world.Topics covered in this episode:What is biodegradation?The challenge of persistent chemicalsHow microbes adapt to biodegrade novel chemicalsBiodegradation and environmental sustainabilityJOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/sustainability-through-biodegradation-Jhonatan/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

Are you a science educator who wants to spark curiosity in your high school students with microbiology? In this world of information overload and digital distractions, capturing the attention of today's learners might seem like an uphill battle. That’s why, in this podcast episode, I chatted with Clara Marcelín, a seasoned high school science educator. She shares her methods for transforming microbiology education into an engaging and lifelong passion. Get ready to discover fresh strategies that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and hands-on exploration, all while reshaping the way students view the captivating realm of microscopic life.We also discuss the exciting paradigm shift in how microorganisms are perceived and the importance of conveying the positive aspects of microbes, dispelling misconceptions, and helping students recognize the integral role microbes play in human health, nutrition, and well-being.Overall, Clara's approach to microbiology education champions hands-on experiences, personal connections, simplicity, and positive perceptions of microbes. Her insights are valuable for educators seeking to inspire curiosity, resilience, critical thinking, and a lasting passion for science among high school students.Topics covered in this episode:Clara’s path to science and science educationHow to engage science students in the classroomThe importance of connecting with studentsChallenges of teaching microbiologyAdvice on keeping it simpleAt-home microbiology activity: Making TepacheJOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/high-school-microbiology-clara/AT-HOME MICROBIOLOGY ACTIVITY: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/tepache/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

In a world where news articles claim that your water bottle has more bacteria than a toilet seat, it's natural to worry about microorganisms making you sick. However, it’s important to embrace the microbial world around us because they play crucial roles in our lives, and without them, we would be in bad shape. So, in this episode of the Joyful Microbe podcast, we’re covering how to appreciate microbes while maintaining a healthy respect for them.For this topic, I wanted to discuss these ideas with someone who understands them well, which brought me to Dr. Sandra Wilks. She is a researcher specializing in infection prevention and control, specifically focusing on the contamination of medical devices. Here, we discuss how to enjoy the microbial world around us without fear.With her vast knowledge and genuine enthusiasm, she shares her journey from childhood curiosity to a passion for microbiology. Sandra's fascination began with tools like magnifying glasses and a microscope, allowing her to discover unseen microorganisms on leaves, moss, and in pond water. She was captivated by the diverse communities of diatoms, amoebas, and other microscopic life forms. This curiosity grew during her time at the British Antarctic Survey, where she explored samples from icy seas and deepened her understanding of marine microbiology. She then went on to complete her PhD in marine microbiology.Over the years, Sandra's research expanded to include various aspects of microbiology, such as animal waste, sewage, drinking water, food, and everyday surfaces. Her current focus lies in studying the contamination of medical devices and the microbial environments in hospitals and beyond.Join us as we uncover misconceptions about what “dirty” actually means, appreciate the wonders of the microbial world, and learn to responsibly share our world with these invisible organisms that shape our lives, whether we realize it or not.Topics covered in this episode:Fear of microbes and perception of cleanlinessWhat is actually dirty?Balancing good hygiene practices with coexisting with microbesDifferences between cleanliness in medical and home settingsThe misleading nature of articles comparing the number of microbes on different surfacesNeed for risk assessment and understanding actual risks associated with microbesDefinitions of cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfectingAdvice on which areas of the home to focus on for cleaningImportance of preserving good microbes and maintaining a healthy microbiomeBalancing cleaning products with exposure to beneficial microbes and environmental impactAt-home microbiology activity: Discovering the Microbial World: Create Your Own Agar PlatesJOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/sandra-wilks/AT-HOME MICROBIOLOGY ACTIVITY: Discovering the Microbial World: Create Your Own Agar PlatesJOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

I'm thrilled to announce that in this podcast episode, I read the introduction chapter of my brand new ebook, Joyful Microbiology Activities. This book has been a labor of love, and I'm so excited to share it with you.Microbiology is a fascinating subject studying organisms that are often viewed negatively as “those gross and scary germs.” However, my goal with this ebook is to shift that perception and show you that microbes are incredibly important in our lives and can even bring joy! Through a collection of hands-on activities, I hope to inspire your curiosity, help you gain a deeper understanding of the microbial world around us, and allow you to have some fun with these tiny but mighty creatures.Whether you're a science teacher, a parent with curious kids, or simply someone who loves learning new things, there is something for everyone in this ebook. From exploring the microbes in our homes and living in our yards to investigating the microbial communities in soil, this book covers a wide range of topics that will spark your interest and expand your knowledge. These activities work for multiple ages and grade levels, with some very simple activities that are suitable for elementary students and others for middle and high school students.I’ve had people ask me if I’ll release a print version of it eventually, and my answer is maybe. For now, it makes the most sense to me to provide it as an ebook so that you can print out the pages for the single activity you plan to do. That way, you can also write your notes on the printed pages because I encourage documentation of your results in each activity.I'm truly passionate about sharing the joy of microbiology with others, and I hope that this book will inspire you to see the world of microbes in a new light. So sit back, relax, and join me as I read the introduction chapter of Joyful Microbiology Activities.GET THE EBOOK HERE: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/activities-book/JOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/introducing-joyful-microbiology-activities/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

We are celebrating, microbe friends! This month marks the 4th anniversary of Joyful Microbe!!! I’ve had such a blast creating articles, podcast episodes, and other resources to help you enjoy microbes in your daily lives and spread knowledge about the microbial world with others.In this episode, I’m featuring ideas and tips about microbiology education from folks in the Joyful Microbe Community! You all came up with some great ideas: fun ways you’ve explored or learned about the microbial world at home and ways you’ve engaged your students about microbes.JOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/joyful-microbe-community-microbiology-education-tips/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/

Tardigrades are beloved microorganisms. These little water bears hide in moss, lichen, and bark of trees. When kids discover tardigrades, it often sparks an interest in science. If you haven’t personally experienced finding a tardigrade under the microscope, I promise it makes a significant impact.In this podcast episode, you’ll get the chance to learn about tardigrades from Dr. Sandeep Eswarappa, who studies these delightful organisms in his laboratory. After listening to the interview, you’ll see that he has a clear passion for the microbial world. So, you’re sure to enjoy this episode of the podcast.Topics covered in this episode:What are tardigrades?Where can you find tardigrades?What other organisms live in the same places as tardigrades?What do tardigrades eat?Tardigrade life stagesAre tardigrades immortal?Applications of tardigrades survival in extreme conditionsAt-home microbiology activity: Watch tardigrades emerge from tun to active stateJOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/tardigrades-sandeep-eswarappa/JOYFUL MICROBE TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joyfulmicrobe/JOYFUL MICROBE INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/justineldees/SUPPORT JOYFUL MICROBE: https://ko-fi.com/joyfulmicrobe/