Gut health has become a major topic in wellness, influencing everything from grocery choices to discussions on social media. Research increasingly shows the gut microbiome’s role in digestion, immunity, and even mood. But with so much information available, it’s hard to separate science from trend. In this episode, I talk with Kristina Campbell, a science writer known for her expertise in the microbiome. As the author of Gut Health for Dummies, Kristina shares practical, research-based insights to help readers understand what gut health really involves — and how to make confident, informed choices.

Topics covered in this episode:

• How Kristina got interested in microbiology and her path to becoming a science writer and gut health ambassador
• What is gut health and how does it relate to the gut microbiome?
• What does the gut microbiome do for us?
• What motivated Kristina to write Gut Health for Dummies
• How lifestyle factors can impact gut health
• How diet impacts gut health
• Overview of “Biotics” - probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics
• A common myth about probiotics
• Why microbes can’t necessarily be labeled strictly as good and bad
• Gut health trends
• How to assess scientific information
• At-home microbiology activity: Kid-Friendly Gut Health Activity: Make Your Own Emulsifier-Free Dressing

JOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/gut-health-kristina-campbell/

AT-HOME MICROBIOLOGY ACTIVITY: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/gut-health-emulsifiers-activity/

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Have you ever stopped to think about the teeming world hidden beneath your feet? It's not just dirt down there; it's a vibrant ecosystem teeming with microbes!

These unseen organisms play a critical role in our daily lives, impacting everything from the food we eat to the air we breathe. In this episode, we'll delve into the fascinating world of soil microbes and explore how they're revolutionizing agriculture.

As the agricultural sector faces growing challenges from rising input costs, herbicide and pesticide resistance, soil degradation, and climate change, the need for more sustainable and efficient farming methods is critical.

Microbial agricultural biologicals offer an exciting solution. These bio-based products — biofertilizers, biopesticides, and biostimulants — harness the power of microbes to support farming and create a more sustainable future for agriculture.

In this episode, Dr. Barry Goldman, founder and Chief Science Officer of Pluton Biosciences, shares insights into the remarkable potential of these invisible allies in agriculture.

Join us as we discuss how innovative companies like Pluton Biosciences are developing cutting-edge solutions to tackle the challenges faced in modern agriculture.

In this episode, you will learn about…

• Dr. Goldman's journey into microbiology
• The importance of soil microbiology in agriculture
• Agricultural biologicals, including biopesticides, biofertilizers, and biostimulants, and companies developing these products
• Pluton Biosciences and its microbial discovery platform
• Challenges and misconceptions in the use of microbes in agriculture
• At-home microbiology activity: Exploring Photosynthetic Microbes in Our Soil

Get ready to be inspired by the power of microbes and their transformative potential for the future of our food and our planet.

JOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/microbes-in-agriculture-barry-goldman/

AT-HOME MICROBIOLOGY ACTIVITY: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/photosynthetic-microbes-activity/

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Coloring books aren't just for kids anymore. In fact, one unique coloring book is bringing the fascinating world of bacteria to life for all ages. In this Joyful Microbe podcast episode, we’re exploring "Coloured Bacteria from A to Z" with the scientists behind this delightful educational resource.

Whether you're a parent looking to spark your child's interest in science, a teacher searching for engaging hands-on learning materials, or an adult who enjoys the calming act of coloring, this microbiology coloring book offers something for everyone. By combining scientific accuracy with artistic creativity, the authors have created a one-of-a-kind tool for exploring the microbial realm.

Too often, bacteria are portrayed in a negative light, associated only with illness and disease. This limited perspective can make it difficult to appreciate the incredible diversity and beneficial roles bacteria play in our world.

But the authors of "Coloured Bacteria from A to Z," Drs. Sarah Wettstadt and Noémie Matthey are on a mission to change that. Through their coloring book, they aim to foster curiosity, dispel common misconceptions, and showcase the "superpowers" of these microscopic marvels through a balanced perspective.

Topics covered in this episode:

• How two scientists with microbiology backgrounds came together to create the "Coloured Bacteria from A to Z" coloring book
• The unique format of the book, featuring one bacterium for each letter of the alphabet
• The authors' strategies for balancing scientific accuracy with artistic representation in the illustrations
• Challenges the authors faced in selecting which bacteria to feature and how to convey key concepts in a simple, engaging way
• Ways teachers, parents, and curious learners of all ages can use the coloring book to explore the microbial world
• Insights into common misconceptions about bacteria that the authors hope to address through this educational resource

Let’s dive into the colorful, joyful world of bacteria! After listening to this episode, you’ll be ready to show off your microbiology artistic skills.

JOYFUL MICROBE SHOW NOTES: https://joyfulmicrobe.com/bacterial-world-coloring-book/

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