From Molecules to Mycelium: Mandie Quark on DNA Barcoding, Rainforest Mycology & Citizen Science

🎙️ Heal With Mushrooms https://healwithmushrooms.kit.com/profile Episode Title: From Molecules to Mycelium: Mandie Quark on DNA Barcoding, Rainforest Mycology & Citizen Science Guest: Mandie Quark Host: Cassandra Beaumont 🌿 Episode Summary: In this episode, Cassanda welcomes molecular biologist turned rainforest mycologist Mandie Quark — a leading visionary in the world of mushroom DNA sequencing and citizen science. From her early days in pharmaceutical research to her rainforest expeditions and public education projects, Mandie shares how she’s transforming the field of mycology by making DNA barcoding accessible and engaging. They dive into: The power of iNaturalist and citizen-generated data Mycology as a portal to healing, curiosity, and community Upcoming field forays, courses, and tips for aspiring mushroom photographers Mandie shares the story behind her course Molecular Biology for Mycologists, her fieldwork in Ecuador and Costa Rica, and why women belong front and center in the future of fungal science. Whether you’re an amateur forager or advanced researcher, this episode invites you to see fungi — and your place in the mycelial web — with fresh eyes. 🍄 Top 3 Takeaways: 1. DNA Barcoding Is for Everyone. Mandie breaks down how citizen scientists can meaningfully contribute to fungal research — no PhD required. Tools like iNaturalist, a jeweler’s loupe, and a dried specimen in a bag are all you need to start observing mushrooms in your region. 2. The Field of Mycology Is Wide Open. With less than 5% of the world’s fungi formally described, we’re in a golden age of discovery. Mandie emphasizes that anyone — especially women — can make a lasting impact by collecting, photographing, and sharing fungal observations. 3. Education is a Portal to Empowerment. From her online course offerings to in-person Costa Rica forays and NAMA workshops, Mandie is committed to making molecular mycology accessible, practical, and joyful. Her classes combine scientific rigor with real-world application, inviting everyone to learn at their own pace. 🔗 Links & Resources: 🌐 Mycena LLC Website & Courses: www.mycena.llc 📸 Instagram: @mandie_quark 🧬 Submit specimens (CA residents): https://mycota.com/the-mycomap-ac-network/ Mycota https://mycota.com/ Ohio Mushroom DNA Lab https://www.ohiomushroomdnalab.com/ 📚 Sign up for Mandie’s newsletter: via https://www.mycena.llc/newsletters/mycena-news 🎓 Mushroom Photography Course (happening now!) https://www.mycena.llc/mushroom-photography-course 🌍 Upcoming Foray: Costa Rica, July 20–26, 2025 https://www.mycena.llc/costa-rica-foray 🎶 Mycena x Atlantic Connection Music: Available on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/1FNiIXYlH4vmvFhvqpL6BM?si=mBvIPXBERs62-f4Hk6ZunQ 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Subscribe to Heal With Mushrooms on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4FZvg7jiTYSWmbEQizARFK?si=5de8a99f537e43bf Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-with-mushrooms/id1796591242 Listen on Pocketcasts https://pca.st/iytnkvce https://healwithmushrooms.kit.com/profile Follow us on Instagram: @healwithmushrooms