By Jonathan Larson

As an extension entomologist, I am always on the lookout for new ways to reach greater numbers of people in order to provide them research-based information and help with insect ID and pest management. In the past other entomologists noted that podcasting presents a way to consistently reach citizens and engage classrooms. So, about a year ago I decided to try my hand at an entomology-themed podcast show and thus Arthro-Pod was born!

Jonathan Larson

The exciting news to share today is that Arthro-Pod will have a booth at Entomology 2015 in Minneapolis, and we want to hear YOUR STORIES. I did ten interviews last year at Entomology 2014, and hope to do even more this year. I will be joined by a new co-host, Dr. Laura Higgins, and we want to know all about the weird, cool, or fascinating experiences you have had in our science. We are sort of aiming for a nice Story-Corps vibe.

About Arthro-Pod

I try to produce an episode a month. The bulk of the show is used for interviews with entomologists to talk about their work and a little about how to become a scientist! If you are ever interested in joining me for an episode, don’t hesitate to tweet at me at @JLarson_UNL and email the show at unl.jonathanlarson@gmail.com!

Just like an insect, each episode features three distinct segments meant to educate the public about our science and to help with pest management. We begin with the Pest Profile, which highlights an annoying critter and provides best management practices for homeowners to enact. We follow that up with Entomology Today blog posts to showcase two or three interesting entomological news topics that are changing the bug world.

So, keep your eye open for the booth and be sure to stop by for a couple of minutes and share your stories in entomology!

Dr. Jonathan Larson is an extension entomologist in Omaha, NE. His main focus is pests of the urban landscape. He’s a newly minted Nebraskan, having gone to Purdue for his BS and to Kentucky for his PhD. You can follow him on Twitter at @JLarson_UNL.