PODCAST · education
It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science
by The University of New Mexico
It’s (Probably) Not Rocket Science is a University of New Mexico podcast that explores some of the hottest and most complex topics impacting our society, through conversations with experts, artists, and researchers. And look, we get it: we know that some issues are tough to unravel and even tougher to comprehend. But on this podcast, we’ll peel away some of those complicated layers for a genuine conversation where we can arrive at understanding and answers. That way, we can honestly say no, it’s not rocket science—and we promise it won’t be. Well . . . probably.
Episodes
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Research in the Interdisciplinary Arts
University of New Mexico Honors College assistant professor Johannes Barfield joins It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science to discuss his Soft Crash exhibition currently on display in Philadelphia, how research is part of his artistic process and his road to both art and UNM.
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Learning about ancient peoples through stable isotope analysis
In this episode of It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science, UNM Anthropology professor Keith Prufer and PhD Student Nadia Neff join the show to discuss a pair of recent papers. Neff published groundbreaking research last summer regarding ancient maize farmers, and the two collaborated on a paper that...
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El Puente Research Fellowship
IPNRS sits down with Alejandro Mendiaz-Rivera and Rodolfo Becerril from El Centro de la Raza to discuss the El Puente Research Fellowship, a program that gives undergraduate students an introduction to research, and the importance of getting students involved early. Some of the other programs...
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Collections Year at UNM Art Museum
It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science returns for season four with a look inside the UNM Art Museum. Andrea Perez-Martinez, the collections manager for UNMAM, joins the show to discuss what collections year, when the museums exhibit halls were closed to the public for a major internal project,...
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It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science Trailer
Join us every two weeks as we break down the latest research happening at The University of New Mexico.
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We R1: A conversation with UNM's Vice President for Research
Ellen Fisher, the Vice President for Research for The University of New Mexico, joins the show to discuss the state of research at the institution and to highlight some of the hidden gems in UNM's research portfolio.
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Part two: Project ECHO helping improve outcomes worldwide
Project ECHO, founded at The University of New Mexico in 2003, is a telehealth model that allows providers across the world to connect and improve outcomes for their patients. Andrea Zurawski and Matt Bouchonville join It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science to discuss their work around diabetes here…
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Part one: Project ECHO helping improve outcomes worldwide
Project ECHO, founded at The University of New Mexico in 2003, is a telehealth model that allows providers across the world to connect and improve outcomes for their patients. Andrea Zurawski and Matt Bouchonville join It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science to discuss their work around diabetes here…
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What is UNM's Office of Community Engagement?
University of New Mexico professor of architecture Tim Castillo discusses his role as the director of the UNM Office of Community Engagement, which was recently recertified with the Carnegie Foundation Classification for Community Engagement. Castillo discusses his background that led him to this...
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Part two: UNM professor helps shape signed language research
Erin Wilkinson, a professor of linguistics at The University of New Mexico, is helping to chart the future of signed language research. Wilkinson, who is deaf, discusses her recent research on the similarities between American Sign Language and Langue des Signes de Côte d’Ivoire as well as her…
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Part one: UNM professor helps shape signed language research
Erin Wilkinson, a professor of linguistics at The University of New Mexico, is helping to chart the future of signed language research. Wilkinson, who is deaf, discusses her recent research on the similarities between American Sign Language and Langue des Signes de Côte d’Ivoire as well as her…
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Goals vs Rewards: What We Can Learn from Positive Reinforcement
James Cavanagh, a professor at The University of New Mexico, joins It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science to discuss his recently published theoretical review about the Reward Positivity brain signal and its role in linking high level control and low-level rewards processes together. Cavanagh worked...
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Tamalewood: A Look at the Impact of the Film Industry in New Mexico
Gabriela Guajardo, a graduate student at The University of New Mexico in the Department of Chicana and Chicano Studies joins It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science to discuss her LoboBITES winning research, Tamalewood: The Sparkling Cinematography of Colonization in the New Southwest, where she…
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Little Lanterns: The History of Farolitos and Luminarias
Luminarias, or Farolitos, are synonymous with the holidays in New Mexico. Dr. Carmella Scorcia Pacheco, a postdoctoral fellow at The University of New Mexico shares the history of these little lanterns, and of one of UNM's oldest traditions, Hanging of the Greens.
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The High Stakes of Sports Betting & Binge Drinking
Since sports betting became legal in most U.S. states, millions of fans now place wagers—often with a drink in hand. UNM psychologist Dr. Joshua Grubbs explains how sports gambling and binge drinking are more connected than you might think, and why this mix could reshape American sports culture.
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Inside UNM's Hidden Museum
Hidden in plain sight at the heart of the University of New Mexico’s campus lies a scientific treasure few people know about — the Museum of Southwestern Biology. Home to more than five million preserved animals and plants, this behind-the-scenes research powerhouse is shaping the future of...
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Psychedelics and the Science of Suffering
University of New Mexico researchers are joining a multi-site clinical trial of an experimental psychedelic drug intended to alleviate the mental suffering many patients experience when they receive a life-altering disease diagnosis. In this episode of It’s Probably Not Rocket Science, lead...
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Detained and Dismissed
A new study from The University of New Mexico’s Institute for Social Research shows nearly half of all people held in jail on a granted pretrial detention motion until their trial are not being convicted in Bernalillo County. According to the October 2024 study, "Bernalillo County Second Judicial...
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Two paintings, 40 years, One unexpected homecoming
It was 1985 when a couple strolled into the Harwood Museum of Art in Taos, New Mexico, but they weren’t there to admire the creations. By the time they left, two paintings had vanished from the walls, stolen in broad daylight by a pair of now-notorious art thieves. For nearly four decades, the...
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One Step Closer to a Cure for Cancer
Imagine a world without cancer. We can all agree that it would be a better place, and researchers are striving for that every single day. For centuries, doctors have been working to find a cure for cancer. While we still don’t have one, significant milestones have been reached, like at The...
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Algorithm Matchmaker: Online Dating Leading to More Diverse Couples
From arranged marriages to swiping left and right on your phone, the so-called “traditional” way of dating has changed drastically over time. While most couples used to meet in person through family and friends, today their matchmaker is an algorithm. Research done by The University of New Mexico...
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Keeping up with Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence doesn’t need much of an introduction anymore. Today, some of us see AI in our daily lives, changing how we work, learn, and play at an alarming rate. In this episode, we’re sitting down with Dr. Leo Lo, the Dean of UNM’s College of University Libraries and Learning…
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How a Higher Alcohol Tax Could Save Lives
It’s no secret drunk driving is a problem across the United States, and it seems to be an even bigger problem in New Mexico. According to statistics, New Mexico ranks within the top five states in the country with the most drunk-driving fatalities. So how do we fix it? While it wouldn't end drunk...
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Black History: The More We Know, The More We Grow
When you think of February, you might associate the month with two things: Love and Black History. Black History Month was officially recognized in 1976 in the United States. 48 years later, the celebration continues across the country and at the University of New Mexico. In today’s episode, we…
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And the Oscar goes to UNM Students
It’s Hollywood's biggest night for filmmakers and film stars, honoring the best of the best in the movie industry. Since the 1920s, the Oscars have separated actor nominees by gender, but nearly 100 years later, several students from the University of New Mexico’s Constitutional Law class are...
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A Geological Timeline of the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is beautiful, no matter what rim you see it from, but its history is even more mesmerizing. How the canyon was formed, how old the rocks are, and what the layers mean inside only make the national park more fascinating. In this episode, we hear from two UNM Distinguished...
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How Climate Change Impacts Wildfires
As climate change has impacted weather conditions around the world, forests have become increasingly susceptible to wildfires and eventually even people living thousands of miles away could be impacted. Today we hear from Matthew Hurteau, an expert in forestry and climate change mitigation about...
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Improving Road Safety for Pedestrians and Bicyclists
Where do you go when you leave your home and how do you get there? In the United States, there is often a car involved and even people who walk and bike to work or school have to exist near cars. Now transportation experts are faced with figuring out why pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities are...
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How the Internet Impacts Politics and the Election
How do the internet, social media and the news impact our political affiliations and the election? In this episode co-hosts Carly Bowling and Alexa Skonieski discuss tips and expertise from University of New Mexico Political Science Associate Professor Jessica Feezell. Dr. Feezell specializes in...
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How Do Scientific Discoveries Make it Into The Community? (LIVE from BioVenture)
From cancer treatments to technology to monitor exposure to UV, scientific discoveries each face a unique journey before they reach the public. Today we’re exploring how innovation makes it to the community with excerpts from the Clinical and Translational Science Center's annual BioVenture…
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It (Actually) Is Rocket Science
How hard is rocket science? Fifty-five years after Apollo 11 landed on the moon, students at the University of New Mexico built and launched their own rocket. In this casual episode, we explore why rocket science may not actually exist. Then, we hear from Fernando "Doc" Aguilar, who served in the...
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Everything You Should Know About Microplastics
Microplastics have been found in human placentas, testicles, brains, and more, so what happens now? In this episode, we talk with Matthew Campen, Regents’ Professor in the UNM Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, about what these findings mean for our health, how we can (or can't) find avoid...
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Can You Overdose on Ozempic or Wegovy?
Ozempic and Wegovy have exploded in popularity for their ability to help people lose weight. Now, Poison Control Centers around the country are sounding the alarm over a growing trend of semaglutide overdoses and incorrect use. We explore the problem and what consumers should know with Dr. Joseph...
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Finding Solutions for Uranium and Toxic Metals Exposure
The Western U.S. is home to thousands of abandoned hard rock and uranium mines that pollute nearby water, soil and air with radiation and create health problems in nearby communities. This episode of It’s (Probably) Not Rocket Science explores the research of the UNM METALS Superfund Research...
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Introducing PlaceKnowing with Dr. Ted Jojola
Today we're sharing the first episode of a brand new podcast with you called PlaceKnowing with Dr. Ted Jojola. The show is co-produced by the Indigenous Design and Planning Institute at The University of New Mexico and The Aunties Dandelion media organization. The six-episode production will...
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How Combining Race and Ethnicity Could Make Equity Research Harder
The Office of Management and Budget announced it would be combining race and ethnicity questions on all Federal forms, but one UNM scholar says the change could impact the ability to research and understand equity issues ranging from poverty to housing discrimination in the U.S. In this episode,...
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With Liberty And Justice For High Schoolers
What should a 16-year-old say if a police officer asks to search them? Law students from the UNM chapter of the Marshall-Brennan Constitutional Literacy Project have spent months teaching students from underserved high schools about their constitutional rights, how to interact with law…
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How To Be Happy: Tips From A Positive Psychology Professor
How can mindfulness and the hero's journey help make us happier? A professor of Positive Psychology discusses proven strategies for happiness, thriving, and resilience to hardship with tips and exercises he teaches students at The University of New Mexico in one of the most popular courses…
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Exploring James Webb Space Telescope Results with Nobel Laureate John C. Mather
Take a trip to outer space as we discuss early results of the James Webb Space Telescope, what astrophysicists think about astrology and how an expert in space optics suggests you clean your iPhone. In this episode, we speak with Dr. John C. Mather, a Nobel Laureate and senior astrophysicist with...
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Developing a Vaccine to Lower Cholesterol
Scientists at The University of New Mexico have developed a groundbreaking vaccine targeting high cholesterol, a leading cause of heart disease and stroke. The vaccine, aimed at lowering LDL cholesterol levels by targeting the PCSK9 protein, offers a potentially more affordable treatment option...
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How To Deal With Seasonal Depression
Millions of Americans experience seasonal affective disorder each year. In this episode, we explore the cause, symptoms, and tips for both dealing with SAD and improving mental health with Dr. Kristina Sowar, a psychiatrist and Associate Professor in the Department of Child and Adolescent...
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Reclaiming Spanish: Learning a language you grew up hearing
What does a language mean to a culture? In this episode, we learn about why it can be difficult to keep heritage languages like Spanish alive in the U.S. and how programs like the Spanish Heritage Language program at UNM can help students reclaim their cultural identity. Learn more about Spanish…
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Cradle of culture: How do children learn Navajo?
A baby’s first words are an exciting milestone, but how does the language the child is learning play a role in what sounds and words they learn first? Linguists have long studied these topics in majority languages, but few studies have explored Navajo and other indigenous languages. Dr. Melvatha...
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Spooky Folklore and the Psychology of Horror
Welcome to the Spooky Spectacular! In this episode we’ll share some of New Mexico’s classic ghost stories and folklore, then we’ll talk about what it means to be horrified and why the horror movie genre is not quite what it seems. This Halloween podcast episode delivers eerie expertise just in…
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What is a substance use disorder and what treatments are available?
Substance use disorders are complicated. This episode includes discussions on factors that contribute to substance use, research on treatments, how substance use impacts the brain, and how we can all help reduce the stigma around this topic by talking about it more openly. The episode features…
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Water 101: How does the West get its water?
Class is in session for Water 101. John Fleck, a professor of practice and expert on the governance and management of the Colorado River discusses what is happening with water in the West. Then, Heather Himmelberger from the Southwest Environmental Finance Center walks us through how water…
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How Will Artificial Intelligence Impact Higher Education and Criminal Justice?
Faculty experts discuss the impacts of artificial intelligence on higher education and criminal justice. Leo Lo, dean of the College of Libraries and Learning Sciences, discusses how AI will change education and how people can set themselves up for success. Then, Sonia Gipson Rankin, professor of...
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It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science Trailer
It’s (Probably) Not Rocket Science is a University of New Mexico podcast that explores some of the hottest and most complex topics impacting our society, through conversations with experts, artists, and researchers. And look, we get it: we know that some issues are tough to unravel and even…
more
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
It’s (Probably) Not Rocket Science is a University of New Mexico podcast that explores some of the hottest and most complex topics impacting our society, through conversations with experts, artists, and researchers. And look, we get it: we know that some issues are tough to unravel and even tougher to comprehend. But on this podcast, we’ll peel away some of those complicated layers for a genuine conversation where we can arrive at understanding and answers. That way, we can honestly say no, it’s not rocket science—and we promise it won’t be. Well . . . probably.
HOSTED BY
The University of New Mexico
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science have?
It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science currently has 48 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science about?
It’s (Probably) Not Rocket Science is a University of New Mexico podcast that explores some of the hottest and most complex topics impacting our society, through conversations with experts, artists, and researchers. And look, we get it: we know that some issues are tough to unravel and even tougher...
How often does It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science release new episodes?
It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science has 48 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
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You can listen to It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science?
It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science is created and hosted by The University of New Mexico.
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