In Exposure Episode 7, we sit down with Bob and Darlene Williamson—lifelong residents of Jefferson County, Ohio—whose quiet country life has been upended by the rapid encroachment of oil and gas infrastructure. Their story is not one of opposition to energy development, but a deeply personal account of how fracking infrastructure—particularly compressor stations—can devastate a family's health, property, and peace of mind. What unfolds is a raw, emotional portrait of forced sacrifice in the name of industry profit.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Nicole Deziel, Associate Professor at Yale School of Public Health, to explore her groundbreaking research on the health impacts of fracking and petrochemical development.

From growing up near cancer clusters in Long Island to leading a pivotal study in Barnesville, Ohio, Dr. Deziel shares what led her to become one of the nation’s top exposure scientists.

We dig into:

• The hidden chemicals in our water and air

• The link between fracking and plastics

• What her studies reveal about cancer, birth defects, and environmental injustice

• The political pressure scientists face when researching oil and gas

Nicole’s work has resulted in over 30 peer-reviewed studies and secured the only $2M EPA grant for fracking research under the Trump administration. Set in the Ohio River Valley, this conversation is a vital listen for anyone concerned about the intersection of public health, science, and industry.

🌐 Learn more or take action: ohiovalleyallies.org
📺 Watch on YouTube: @exposurepodcast

#Fracking #EnvironmentalJustice #PublicHealth #Petrochemicals #ScienceMatters #Yale #NicoleDeziel #ExposurePodcast

Disclaimer: Exposure is an editorial and investigative journalism platform produced by Ohio Valley Allies. The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the organization or its affiliates. Our mission is to investigate and document the impacts of extractive industries—including oil, gas, petrochemicals, and plastics—through in-depth interviews, research, and storytelling. We aim to expose the truth behind these industries’ operations and consequences using good-faith inquiry, verified sources, and the protections afforded to journalists under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. The content presented in this podcast is intended for informational, educational, and documentary purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice, a call to action, or an endorsement of any specific viewpoint, protest, or organization. We do not knowingly publish false or defamatory statements. All claims are based on publicly available information, firsthand accounts, expert interviews, or journalistic analysis. Where allegations or critical claims are made, we strive to provide context and sourcing. We are committed to correcting material errors. If you believe a factual inaccuracy has occurred, please contact us at info@ohiovalleyallies.org for timely review and, if warranted, correction. While Exposure covers controversial and high-stakes topics, we do so as journalists seeking transparency, accountability, and the free exchange of ideas—not as advocates for any political party, protest strategy, or legal action.