What ignited your interest in geology or paleontology?

I would say that my fascination began with paleontology, though archaeology might have been a contender. It all started when I was just a child, around five or six years old, when I stumbled upon various rocks, including an arrowhead and a fossilized brachiopod. I was also interested in agates. My early experiences revolved around the thrill of discovery—be it finding coins with a metal detector or unearthing Indian artifacts.

My passion lay in the act of exploration; it was incredibly rewarding to visit a library, gather information, and then venture out to uncover treasures of nature. Initially, I didn’t differentiate between the types of objects I was discovering, but my focus quickly sharpened on fossils.

What’s the most geologically fascinating place you've explored?

As a paleontologist, I am drawn to locations where geological layers are exposed. These layers are formed as the Earth shifts, creating a vivid record of its history. The sites that captivate me the most are those that encapsulate extensive geological timelines in one view.

While the Grand Canyon is remarkable, it primarily showcases a relatively narrow slice of time—around 300 to 400 million years. My favorite place is the Bighorn Basin in Wyoming, east of Yellowstone. It provides a continuous record of geological time, showcasing approximately 35 layers from the inception of life on Earth to the cataclysmic eruption of Yellowstone. Standing at one point, you can visually traverse the planet's history, a truly awe-inspiring experience.

What common misconceptions exist about Earth's geology?

Many people struggle with the concept of Earth's age, often influenced by religious beliefs that suggest it is merely 6,000 years old. However, grasping that our planet is 4.5 billion years old is challenging, especially for beings with lifespans of 50 to 90 years. The vastness of time involved can be unfathomable.

Similarly, while we know the Earth's size quantitatively, we often fail to appreciate it in practical terms. Walking from Washington D.C. to San Francisco would offer a true sense of the continent's scale, contrasting greatly with the experience of flying. Our rapid movement through space leads to a disconnect with the immense distances and histories that geology encompasses.

Understanding the extensive time and space of geology is daunting, as is comprehending the hidden elements beneath our feet—what lies miles below the surface can be as mysterious as outer space or the ocean's depths. This duality of familiarity and ignorance makes our planet endlessly intriguing.

How has technology transformed your work?

The advancements in remote sensing and measuring techniques have significantly enhanced our understanding of phenomena that are invisible to our senses. The journey from the Enlightenment to today has seen technology revolutionize our grasp of the Earth’s workings.

Despite this, I often rely on simple tools like hammers and crowbars in my paleontological work. For instance, during the Making North America series, we collaborated with coastal geologist Brian Atwater, who discovered Seattle's risk for a 9.0 magnitude earthquake using basic tools—a canoe, a shovel, and a saw. His work involved digging into a buried coastal marsh, revealing a tsunami deposit and dating trees affected by the event. This demonstrates that monumental discoveries can arise from basic observational techniques, emphasizing that technology is vital yet not solely responsible for scientific advancement.

What sparked your interest in how individuals enter the field of science?

In around 2000, I began collaborating with artist Ray Troll on a book, which led us to travel and discuss fossils and their discovery. As we interviewed scientists, I found myself in an unexpected journalistic role, asking my colleagues about their journeys into science. This exploration revealed fascinating stories of their childhood experiences and initial discoveries.

During my tenure as chief scientist at the Denver museum and later at the Smithsonian, I made it a point to engage with scientists about their early interests in science. I discovered that most individuals do not decide to pursue science later in life; instead, they often have a clear vision of their scientific ambitions from a young age.

What common motivations have you observed for pursuing science?

From my interviews, distinct patterns emerged. Many individuals had memorable outdoor experiences as children, whether exploring tide pools, hiking, or fishing. These moments fostered a connection with nature and often led to personal discoveries—be it finding a unique rock or a fossil—without external prompts.

Supportive parents, whether themselves in scientific fields or encouraging of their children's interests, also played a crucial role. Additionally, mentorship from other adults, including teachers and family friends, often contributed to young people's engagement in science. Lastly, media influences—be it documentaries or shows like Jurassic Park—also sparked interest in the field for many.

What factors deter individuals from pursuing a career in science?

Conversely, it’s essential to consider why some individuals choose not to pursue science. Many recount experiences like having a challenging physics teacher, which can discourage them from continuing. Educators sometimes adopt rigorous approaches that inadvertently deter potential scientists instead of nurturing their curiosity.

Recognizing this issue, many educators are now focusing on making science more engaging to prevent losing interested students. Most crucial decisions regarding a future in science occur during elementary school, where many teachers lack a strong background in science and struggle to inspire their students.

How is the digital age influencing children's discovery experiences?

The rapid shift in how we engage with information is striking. For instance, young children are often captivated by smartphones, which can mesmerize them but may not foster scientific curiosity. While there may be future scientists influenced by digital experiences, true scientific inquiry often stems from understanding the concept of infinity and the unknown.

I recall my own pivotal moment while hiking with my father at the age of six. Despite my initial dislike for hiking, witnessing endless ridges in the Olympic Mountains sparked a realization about the vastness of nature and the possibilities of discovery. This awareness of the infinite is a fundamental driver for many scientists.

How effectively is the science media communicating discoveries?

Science has become increasingly complex, making it difficult for non-scientists to engage with it. Media coverage often highlights discoveries without adequately explaining the processes behind them, which are crucial for understanding the scientific method.

In my work on Making North America, I aimed to demonstrate the hands-on nature of scientific exploration rather than merely presenting conclusions. Failing to convey the behind-the-scenes processes can erode public trust in science, especially in an age where misinformation is easily accessible.

What qualities make a good science communicator?

I’ve noticed that when people respond positively to discussions about science, they often cite my passion for the subject rather than the information itself. This suggests that the manner of presentation significantly influences audience engagement.

Many museum visitors express admiration for the enthusiasm of scientists rather than the content being discussed. This reveals that human connections and shared passion can foster interest in scientific subjects, underscoring the importance of presenting information in an engaging manner.

How are museums evolving?

Museums have a rich history, evolving from private collections in the 17th century to educational institutions by the late 1800s. Initially seen as dusty relics, museums regained prominence following the launch of Sputnik, leading to increased public interest in science.

Today, museums focus on providing interactive experiences that engage visitors, particularly children, who learn through exploration. By allowing tactile interactions with exhibits, museums cater to the natural curiosity and sensory exploration that children crave.

However, accessibility remains a challenge, as many communities lack museums, preventing children from experiencing these educational spaces. While digital experiences can supplement learning, they cannot replace the tangible engagement that physical exhibits offer.

Ultimately, museums should strive to be more inclusive and accessible, enabling all children to discover the wonders of science and exploration in person.

If you weren’t a scientist, what would you be?

Throughout my career, I have oscillated between science and art, collaborating with artists to reconstruct ancient landscapes. I find the creative elements of both disciplines—imagination, creativity, and execution—are fundamentally aligned.

Both science and art require innovation and experimentation, and I believe that the creative spirit transcends categories. My passion for both fields continues to fuel my work and inspire my journey.