The Science Pawdcast Jason Zackowski

Kris and I uncover the secrets of lab-grown diamonds, embracing the science that sculpts these lustrous marvels.

We'll even delve into the high-stakes world of diamond selection, sharing a tale from my own quest for the perfect engagement ring.

But the sparkle doesn't stop with gemstones; we're beyond thrilled to welcome Michelle Waitzman to our show. Her insights on the therapeutic wonder of dogs, and her book "Be as Happy as Your Dog," promise to shed light on how our furry friends can teach us to cherish the joys of life, wagging tails and all.

This week's conversation is a heartfelt blend of the technical and the tender, as we examine the remarkable role of therapy dogs in supporting patients through the rigors of hemodialysis. These four-legged companions offer more than comfort; they're a beacon of hope and adherence in a sea of medical monotony. As we pivot from the clinical to the canine, Michelle Waitzman captivates us with her tales of rescue dogs and the paw-prints they leave on our hearts. Her approach melds the wisdom of wagging tails with the principles of positive psychology, unlocking the secret to a more fulfilled existence.

Finally, we wrap up with a nod to life's simple pleasures, and how moderation can make a treat truly a treat—cue memories from "Parks and Recreation" and the exuberance of "Treat Yo' Self" day. From self-publishing trials to pet antics, we share a slice of our lives, including the gentle giant, Bunsen, and his escapades as a misunderstood 'big baby' dog!

Michelle's Links!
Book!
Website

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook
Support the Show.
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Caught in a gust of post-blizzard bliss, Bunsen's snowy romp reminds me of the simple joys our pets bring into our lives.

Ginger's clever feline shenanigans, creating a cat food piñata, had me in stitches, proving once again that our four-legged companions are adept at sprinkling humor throughout our daily routines.

This week's episode is brimming with tales of mischief and warmth, from Ginger and Beaker vying for the remnants of my spicy tuna lunch to the collective nod we all share as pet parents facing quirky challenges. We celebrate those small victories and the undeniable bond between us and our pets, exploring the emotive tapestry that makes each of our furry friend's personalities so endearing and sometimes utterly unpredictable.

Amidst the laughter, we navigate the complexities of pet behavior, acknowledging that even the most harmonious of homes can experience tension. Join us as we unwrap these tales and tips with the infectious enthusiasm of a chat among friends, all the while marveling at the unique quirks and needs of the animals we hold dear.

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook
Support the Show.
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Have you ever wondered about the mysterious connections we share with our four-legged friends, even beyond their passing?   Maybe some of you have superhuman sweat!  You'll have to listen on!

Losing a pet can leave a void filled with sorrow and, sometimes, unexplainable occurrences that offer solace in the midst of grief. We'll navigate the delicate terrain of pet loss with a study by Dr. Jen Golbeck, delving into supernatural experiences that challenge the boundaries of our understanding.

 Discover how these encounters serve as therapeutic touchstones, providing comfort to many who have loved and lost their animal companions. Plus, prepare to be inspired by tales of quiet kindness in schools, revealing the often-overlooked acts that foster an environment of empathy and emotional intelligence.

Dr. Golbeck's Study
B.A,R,K.
Bark on Twitter (X)

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook
Support the Show.
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

This week's bonus podcast is an eclectic mix of travel hijinks, pet antics, and celestial phenomena. We discuss the unique challenges of selecting a rental car equipped for the future, navigating the technology frontier, and the joy of witnessing an eclipse in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Our furry companions Bunsen and Beaker might not have joined us on the trip, but they certainly provided plenty of stories to share, including Beaker's regal birthday bash preparation.

Our community segment is where the heart truly lies, as we welcome stories from our listeners like Paula, who shares her quirky eclipse viewing techniques and pet sitting adventures. We laugh over the escapades of grooming Trixie and invite valuable tips from our fellow pet parents. Meanwhile, we ponder the finer points of pet nutrition, celebrate Beaker's fourth birthday, and highlight our delightful encounters with some standout canine personalities, Kuno and Chesney. It's this sense of shared experience that binds us all, and we're delighted to have such engaging contributions to our conversation.

Wrapping up, safety takes center stage as we tackle the topic of transporting larger dogs in vehicles and ensuring their well-being. A listener's practical concerns spark a discussion on harnesses and safe travel, reminding us of the responsibilities that come with the joy of pet ownership. As we say goodbye, we extend a heartfelt thanks to our community, including Indra from the positivity vibe tribe, for their unwavering support and shared stories. This episode celebrates the special moments with our pets, the excitement of travel, and the profound connections we share with our four-legged friends – all under the shadow of a solar eclipse.

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook


Support the Show.
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Back from the eclipse!

Ok let's delve into how the simple act of writing and ditching our negative thoughts, inspired by a Japanese study, could be the outlet we've been searching for.

I also weave in a heartening snippet of pet science, revealing the profound influence our furry companions wield over children's lives, and set the stage for a fascinating discussion with conservation biologist

Sam Helle, whose passion for wildlife conservation ignites our conversation with tales from her path into this vital field.

Embark on a journey with us as we navigate the dense terrain of tiger conservation, guided by Sam Helle's insights into the admirable progress of Nepal's community forestry and the ambitious WWF's TX2 initiative. The narrative of how Nepal nearly tripled its tiger population is not just a success story; it's a clarion call to action, reminding us of the potency of localized conservation strategies. In this engaging narrative, we also offer guidance for eco-conscious tourists and introduce a children's book designed to stoke the flames of curiosity in young, aspiring biologists and conservationists.

As we wrap up, prepare to be moved by stories of the animal kingdom, from Gwendolyn, the fiercely protective collie-border collie mix, to the paralyzing power of a tiger's roar. These anecdotes underline the profound connections between humans and animals, from the humorous misconceptions children have to the unique bonds pets form with their families.

Until next week!



Sam's Links
https://twitter.com/samanthaiam
https://www.projectconservationfund.org/
https://www.amazon.ca/Tiger-Young-Zoologist-First-Stripes/dp/1684493595

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook
Support the Show.
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd

Prepare to be tattooed with knowledge as we trace the lines of ancient artistry on the skin of Otzi the Iceman, whose 5,200-year-old tattoos might just share a lineage with the buzzing machines in your local tattoo parlor. Ever caught yourself in that high-pitched cooing when talking to your pets or a baby? It's not just you—it turns out there's a science to our soppy speech, and we're unpacking the adorable why's in this episode.

Mary Reiter, a wizard of Geographic Information Systems, charts her course from a childhood awash with globes and atlases to becoming a maestro of maps and spatial data. While your phone's map app casually leads you to the nearest coffee shop, the GIS technology behind it is revolutionizing our world in ways you've probably never imagined. Mary helps us navigate this terrain, sharing how satellite imagery and data management are more than just waypoints on a map—they are tools that shape our understanding of the world.

Finally, get ready for a tail-wagging conclusion as we share chuckles over pet antics and the unexpected friendships that blossom between our four-legged family members. And if you've ever wondered who first thought to computerize the world of mapping, Mary drops a super fact about the Canadian pioneer of GIS. This episode is not only a journey through time and technology but a tribute to the curiosity that guides us, the laughter that binds us, and the pets that bring joy to our steps along the way.

Bunsen and Beaker Links:

30% off the first month at Zencastr - use the code in the show!
https://zen.ai/3LXIX2UYb1RLXwtWHHjryXAutdr3HS5EpVHMW80BOKg

Save 10% at Bark and Beyond with the coupon code BUNSEN!

The Ginger Stuffie is on presale so check the link here!

Join The Paw Pack to Support The Show!

https://bunsenbernerbmd.com/pages/paw-pack-plus-community

Our Website!

The Bunsen and Beaker Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!

www.bunsenbernerbmd.com

Sign up for our Weekly Newsletter!

Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:

Bunsen and Beaker on TikTok:

Bunsen and Beaker on Facebook



Support the Show.
For Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!
Being Kind is a Superpower.
https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmd