Minerals – Discovery to Recovery
- Episodes
- 63
- Released
- monthly
- Latest episode
- May 27, 2026
About the podcast
A podcast produced by the Society of Economic Geologists (SEG), bringing you geoscience and technology stories from the world of ore deposits. Season 3 is sponsored by Goldspot.
Episodes 63
SEG 2025 Student Chapter Challenge 3: New Technologies and the Future of Geoscience
The future of geoscience is being shaped by our students. In this episode host Joy Carter showcases two top student entries. We're diving into emerging technologies and exploring how they may shape our …
Show notes
The future of geoscience is being shaped by our students. In this episode host Joy Carter showcases two top student entries. We're diving into emerging technologies and exploring how they may shape our industry in the years ahead. First we are featuring the first place team from the University of Toronto in Canada about a topic on everyone's mind these days, artificial intelligence. This is the third and final episode highlighting the SEG 2025 Student Podcast Challenge and we finish it with the team from the University of Namibia and their take on the 'Mineral Mindset'.
SEG 2026 Student Podcast Challenge
Chapter 1: The Evolution of Mineral Exploration Tools & AI’s Role in the Future
University of Toronto
Host Eve Carrothers
In this episode of Geochronicles, host Eve Carrothers, a master’s student in economic geology at the University of Toronto, explores how new tools in mineral exploration often face scepticism before becoming standard practice, drawing parallels between early geophysical and geochemical instruments and the current debate surrounding Artificial Intelligence. Joined by Professors Andrei Swidinsky (geophysics) and Dan Gregory (geochemistry), Eve discusses the historical reception of tools like magnetometers, gravimeters, and petrographic microscopes, showing how resistance to change has long been part of the geoscientific journey. The conversation then shifts to AI, examining how it mirrors the same cycle of doubt and eventual acceptance seen with past innovations. The guests share their thoughts on how AI may transform mineral exploration in the coming decades, while also offering advice to geoscientists who may be hesitant to adopt it. The episode encourages a thoughtful, informed approach to new technology, reminding listeners that many of today’s essential tools were once met with uncertainty.
This podcast features the song “Beer Blues” by Koi-discovery, available under a Creative Commons Universal Licence.
Chapter 2: The Mineral Mindset
University of Namibia
Host Ama Geingos
with Guests Senamile Dlamini, Ndinelago Johannes, Obey Haufiku, Eli Kaushiningwa, Eunice KamoshoThe Mineral Mindset podcast, presented by the UNAM Society of Economic Geologists Student Chapter, explores the rising demand for lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. The discussion highlights how these critical minerals power modern technologies, the role of new exploration methods like AI and drone technology, and the environmental challenges associated with mining. Future trends, including recycling, urban mining, and alternative resources, are also examined. The discussion also underscores the geopolitical and economic implications of the growing demand for critical minerals, as nations and industries compete for access to these essential resources. Speakers stress the need for responsible mining practices, stricter regulations, and government-industry collaboration to ensure long-term sustainability. As the world transitions toward greener energy and advanced technologies, the role of geologists and mining professionals becomes even more crucial in balancing resource extraction with environmental stewardship. Moreover, insights into sustainable mining practices, such as gas turbines, water treatment, and eco-friendly extraction methods are discussed. Finally, episode wraps up with a call to action, encouraging young geologists to embrace innovation and drive positive change in the field.
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
Chapters
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SEG 2025 Student Chapter Challenge 2: Copper & Uranium Potential in Latin America
What is the potential for copper mineralization in the northern Peruvian Andes? Could uranium be important in the future of South America? Today's episode features two of the top SEG 2025 Student Podcast …
Show notes
What is the potential for copper mineralization in the northern Peruvian Andes? Could uranium be important in the future of South America? Today's episode features two of the top SEG 2025 Student Podcast Challenge entries. First, we are featuring the third place team from the competition, the students at the National University of Engineering in Lima, Peru.
SEG 2026 Student Podcast Challenge
Chapter 1: The potential for copper mineralization in the northern Peruvian Andes: Support for the sustainable green energy transition
National University of Engineering in Lima, Peru.
Hosts, Milagros Del Rosario De la Cruz Chanco and Erick Ronaldo Romani Pongo
Production Team, Jean Pierre Avendaño Quispe, Felipe Ramiro Robles Salvador, Antonio Chavez Anccasi, Nicolas Valentino Bances Camacho, Jhonny Angelo Urbano Ramos, Lorena Naydelin Rojas Hernandez, Jerry Junnior Ramirez GuadalupeWe address Peru's role in the global energy transition and its relevance as the world's third largest copper producer, with 10% of the world's reserves. The southern region dominates production, while the north, despite hosting important projects, remains underdeveloped due to socio-environmental conflicts, lack of infrastructure and a historical bias in exploration.
Geologist Pedro Reyes proposes three strategies to reverse this situation: expanding exploration in poorly studied areas, analysing geological transitions between epithermal and porphyry deposits, and evaluating new mineralised styles in the north. He also stresses that the success of these projects depends not only on technical aspects, but also on adequate social management. Finally, he emphasizes that the future of the sector depends on innovation and the training of new generations capable of discovering and exploiting Peru's enormous copper potential, especially in the northern Andes.
Chapter 2: Uranium in Latin America: Powering the Future?
University of El Paso Texas
Hosts, Paola Salas, Aaron Atkins and Bardo Tavizon
Editor, Daniel Castano MadrigalIn this episode Paola, Bardo, and Aaron, representing the SEG Student Chapter at UTEP, dive into the exciting possibilities of uranium in shaping the region's energy landscape. Their discussion highlights its vital role as a low-carbon alternative in our global energy mix. While it's true that the public often associates nuclear energy with past disasters and weapons, the hosts shine a light on the technological advancements that are making nuclear energy safer and more sustainable today.
The conversation shifts to the immense potential of Latin America, with Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina standing out as key players due to their uranium reserves and growing interest in nuclear power. Yet, they also address the challenges ahead, including environmental concerns, political instability, and public scepticism. The presenters stress the importance of responsible mining, open communication, and investment in education to tackle these issues. In the end, they present uranium as a promising avenue toward a cleaner energy future, provided we approach its development thoughtfully and inclusively.
SEG Minerals - Discovery to Recovery theme music is Confluence, by Eastwinds.
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
Chapters
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SEG 2025 Student Chapter Challenge 1: What It Means to Be An Explorer
What does it mean to be a geologist and an explorer? With introductions by Joy Carter, this is the first of three special episodes. We hear from two individuals with a rich history in geology and exploration …
Show notes
What does it mean to be a geologist and an explorer? With introductions by Joy Carter, this is the first of three special episodes. We hear from two individuals with a rich history in geology and exploration, how the industry has changed throughout their careers and their advice to geologists.
These episodes were top entries from the Society of Economic Geologists’ 2025 Student Podcast Challenge. The 2026 competition is now underway! Submissions are due August 21, 2026. For information check out the SEG website
SEG 2026 Student Podcast Challenge
Chapter 1: From Field to Verse: Exploration Geopoetry
Universidad Central del Ecuador
Host Stalyn Paucar
Cohosts and production Eslendy Zurita and Dálember Vallejo
Martin Litherland, born in 1945, had a remarkable career as a geologist. After earning his PhD from Liverpool University in 1970 for his research of Dalradian rocks in Scotland, he joined the British Geological Survey. This role led him to explore vast, uncharted regions of Africa, and South America. In Bolivia he ventured into the legendary “Lost World” of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle; in Ecuador he led the Cordillera Real Project. His efforts in mapping the Cordillera Real revealed unexpected geological un-Andean features that challenged conventional knowledge.
He wrote many scientific papers, memoirs, and geological maps, and in 1993, Queen Elizabeth II honored him with the The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. Throughout his career, he sometimes felt limited by the formal style of scientific writing, which focuses on data and analysis rather than personal expression. After retiring, Litherland found a new passion in poetry, using it to convey not only his deep connection to geology but also his reflections on various aspects of life.
Chapter 2: From Outcrop to Ore Deposit
University of British Columbia
Host Maya Saldanha
Welcome to From Outcrop to Ore Deposit, the episode where we dive into the world of economic geology: research, fieldwork, and the people shaping the next generation of geologists.
Maya Saldanha is joined by Dr. Kenneth Hickey, the Director of UBC’s field school and an expert in ore deposit geology. We’ll chat about his journey from working at the Karangahake mine in New Zealand as a fresh grad to running field courses in the Okanagan Valley, in British Columbia, Canada. Ken shares why field-based learning is so important, how geoscience education is evolving, and what it really takes to prepare students for the fast-changing world of mineral exploration.
If you're curious about how geology is taught, what makes a great field school, or how we bridge the gap between academia and industry, this one’s for you. Let’s get into it!
Music is ‘Jamcito - Cumbia Deli’ from Youtube Audio Library
Theme music for SEG Discovery to Recovery is Confluence, by Eastwinds.
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
Chapters
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57. Arizona’s Porphyry Copper Story: Exploring the Tectonic and Geologic History of the Laramide Province
Host Maxwell Porter is joined by two experts to explore the geological and tectonic evolution of the iconic Laramide Porphyry Copper Province, focusing on its complex geodynamic history and the key exploration …
Show notes
Host Maxwell Porter is joined by two experts to explore the geological and tectonic evolution of the iconic Laramide Porphyry Copper Province, focusing on its complex geodynamic history and the key exploration criteria that define this world-class copper belt. Our guests share complementary academic and industry perspectives, offering insights drawn from decades of research and field experience.
The Geological Framework and Exploration vectors in the Globe-Miami District
Our first guest is Dr. Robert Lee. Robert earned his PhD at Oregon State University studying the El Salvador porphyry copper deposit in Chile. He then joined Freeport-McMoRan as a greenfields exploration geologist working across North America, the Philippines, and Europe. In 2014, he moved to UBC’s MDRU, leading and contributing to research projects on tools to vector towards economic ore deposits, across the Western Tethyan Belt to the Andes and British Columbia. Since 2022, Robert has been a Principal Geoscientist with BHP’s Generative Porphyry Copper team. His expertise centers on porphyry copper formation, mineral chemistry, and innovative tools for exploration, including zircon as a vector to ore.
Tectonic controls on porphyry deposit formation in Arizona
Our second guest is Professor Thomas Lamont. Thomas is a structural geologist and petrologist whose work links tectonics, crustal evolution, and the formation of major ore systems. His research combines field mapping with advanced analytical tools, from EPMA and thermobarometry to isotopic and geochronological techniques. He completed his DPhil at the University of Oxford, investigating how the Cycladic Islands in Greece evolved from a compressional to an extensional tectonic regime. In a later postdoctoral role, he focused on the Laramide porphyry province of the southwestern United States, showing how flat-slab subduction drove water-fluxed melting and porphyry copper formation. Thomas now leads research into how subduction geometry shapes the thermal and mechanical state of the lithosphere and its mineral endowment in addition to other topics, as an assistant professor of Structural Geology and Tectonics at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Many thanks to VRIFY for sponsoring Season 5 of Discovery to Recovery.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.com
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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56. The Future of Mining - Innovative Pathways to a Skilled Workforce
Host Anne Thompson explores the diverse and innovative methods being employed in Australia to build and retain the technical workforce in the mining industry. From attracting new talent, to supporting early …
Show notes
Host Anne Thompson explores the diverse and innovative methods being employed in Australia to build and retain the technical workforce in the mining industry. From attracting new talent, to supporting early career geoscientists, to training professionals from other industries - this episode might just change your perspective on what is possible.
First up, Brendan Howard, General Manager for Technical Capability at Rio Tinto and a founder of the MiEX (Minerals Industry Experience) Program, addresses the mining sector’s shrinking and less diverse talent pipeline. The success of MiEX, a collaborative industry-led program, highlights the value of early engagement with undergraduate students. The pilot in January 2025 drew over 500 applicants for 69 places with 90% of participants expressing intent to pursue mining careers. New conversations are underway in North America to bring this exciting opportunity to more students.
Richard Lilly, the University of Adelaide presents NExUS (National Exploration Undercover School) based in South Australia, which provides hands-on experience and essential training to geoscience students, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements. NExUS combines technical learning with professional networking, using the South Australian Drill Core Library and nearby field sites to expose students to geophysics, core logging, and exploration through cover. Lilly is now stepping down after 10 years as Director, with the hope that this successful model will continue and be expanded to other jurisdictions to better prepare geoscientists for evolving exploration challenges.
Lastly, Deng Ngang Deng, from Target Mining Resources, shares his inspiring journey from South Sudan to professional geoscientist in Western Australia. Deng was involved in establishing the Pan Africa Resource Reporting Code (PARC) and an invited plenary speaker at SEG 2024 in Namibia. At home in Australia, he has developed an innovative approach to training and employing geoscientists and other technical mining workers. Initiated during the pandemic, the company continues to expand and add to their portfolio of skills they train for, successfully filling a gap in mining recruitment.
Many thanks to Avo Media for production support.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.com
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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55. Diamonds in Transition: Markets, Mining and the Future
The diamond industry has a rich and complex history, influenced by discoveries, geoscience and marketing. Join host Halley Keevil as she explores the industry’s history from the onset of modern diamond mining …
Show notes
The diamond industry has a rich and complex history, influenced by discoveries, geoscience and marketing. Join host Halley Keevil as she explores the industry’s history from the onset of modern diamond mining in Kimberley, South Africa in the 1800s, to the advent of laboratory grown diamonds and new platforms for marketing. Featured guest Eira Thomas is complemented by Natasha Oviatt and Reid Mackie, who all have deep knowledge and understanding of the diamond industry.
Natasha Oviatt provides her perspective as a previous glacial geology specialist with De Beers Canada, discussing recent changes in the diamond mining industry, consumer preferences and marketing strategies through time, ESG issues, past and present economic downturns, and her opinions on lab-grown diamonds and the future of the natural diamond industry.
Next, Reid Mackie, VP Diamond Marketing of Mountain Province Diamonds, discusses the diamond industry from a marketing perspective. He gives his opinions on the biggest trends in the history of the diamond industry and what he thinks are the biggest trends shaping its future. He also discusses market strategies for younger generations and how lab-grown diamonds are affecting the industry, as well as the shifts we are starting to see in the natural diamond mining industry.
Lastly, renowned Canadian geologist Eira Thomas, widely known as the ‘Queen of Diamonds’, and previous CEO of Lucara Diamond, gives her opinions on the past, present, and future of the diamond industry. She discusses the reasons the industry is struggling at present and how lack of alignment in the supply chain drives volatility. She talks about the advent of lab-grown diamonds, the intrinsic value of natural diamonds, and the public perception of the industry. She also discusses how advances in technology, including her new rough diamond digital marketplace, Clara, are revolutionizing the diamond mining industry.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.com
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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54. The Bushveld - Decoding a Mega-magmatic Mineral System
Dive deep into a mega-magmatic mineral system — the Bushveld Complex with host Maxwell Porter. Max is joined by Professor Wolfgang Maier and Dr. Erin Thompson who share their insights on the geological setting …
Show notes
Dive deep into a mega-magmatic mineral system — the Bushveld Complex with host Maxwell Porter. Max is joined by Professor Wolfgang Maier and Dr. Erin Thompson who share their insights on the geological setting, economic significance, and evolving scientific understanding of this world-class mineral province.
Wolfgang Maier discusses the Bushveld Complex’s geological framework, its importance in today’s resource landscape, and the controversies surrounding models for its genesis — and how these models have shifted over time. Wolfgang Maier completed his PhD on the Bushveld at Rhodes University, South Africa in 1992. He taught igneous petrology and economic geology at the Universities of Port Elizabeth, Pretoria (South Africa), Chicoutimi (Canada), UWA (Perth, Australia) and Oulu (Finland). He is now Professor for Ore Geology at Cardiff University, UK. Wolf’s research deals with petrological and geochemical processes in mafic-ultramafic igneous systems that contribute to our understanding of continental magmatism, mantle evolution, plate tectonics and the formation of magmatic ore deposits including PGE, Ni-Cu, Cr, and V-Ti-Fe deposits.
Erin Thompson shares what drew her to study the northern limb, why it holds both geological and economic importance, and how magmatic architecture and mineralisation controls shape exploration strategies. She explains the once-overlooked yet powerful tool of Niggli numbers, and how geochemistry and isotope studies inform exploration and the future of the Northern Limb. Dr Erin Thompson has recently completed her PhD at the University of Leicester, which focused on constraining the magmatic controls on Ni-Cu-PGE mineralisation in the world-class Platreef deposit, northern limb of the Bushveld Complex. Her research was funded by Anglo American as part of the Northern Limb in 4D (NL4D) research consortium, which included researchers from across the UK at the University of Leicester, Cardiff University and Camborne School of Mines. She is now applying her background in magmatic processes and geochemistry in her new role as an exploration geologist.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.com
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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53. Advancing Science and Discovery in Australia - SEG 2025
Come explore geoscience innovation and collaboration in Australia with host Anne Thompson. We talk to researchers at three universities and one geologic survey - who are also all involved in the Society of …
Show notes
Come explore geoscience innovation and collaboration in Australia with host Anne Thompson. We talk to researchers at three universities and one geologic survey - who are also all involved in the Society of Economic Geologists 2025 Conference in Brisbane, Queensland.
Joins us to learn more about advancing science and discovery in Australia!
Rick Valenta, chair of SEG 2025 provides a broad view of the work of the SMI (Sustainable Minerals Institute, University of Queensland) and how his role there as Director has influenced the conference. What makes minerals mineable includes all the other aspects that sometimes are neglected, including the impact of geoscience on society, and on individual communities.
A recent highlight in Australia is the final release of the Queensland Deposit Atlas, a vast and comprehensive public data set. The Atlas was commissioned and funded by the Queensland Geologic Survey and completed by SMI. Vladimir Lisitsin provides an overview of the data and the many and varied mineral deposits found in Queensland.
To get a flavour of what might be in the technical program I chatted with two keynote speakers. Angela Escolme, CODES, University of Tasmania provided insights into her work with a large collaborative project aimed at understanding the overprinted, transition zones in porphyry systems. Lastly, David Giles, University of South Australia delved into how a structural geologist got to be involved in creating the innovative coiled tubing drill rig and what it really means to be truly collaborative.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.com
SEG 2025 is in Brisbane, Australia, September 26-29th. This will be a dynamic conference with cutting edge science, new discoveries, technology and more. Opportunities for networking and learning include several workshops and field trips before and after the event, relaxed social events and of course the conference itself. See you there!
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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52. Redefining Exploration Business Models - Changing Perceptions and Attracting Capital
Alternative business models in mineral exploration and mining can build value for communities, benefit resource companies and influence perceptions in our industry. This episode highlights two innovative …
Show notes
Alternative business models in mineral exploration and mining can build value for communities, benefit resource companies and influence perceptions in our industry. This episode highlights two innovative companies who are changing the business of mining: Nations Royalty and VRIFY.
Nations Royalty, a TSXV-listed royalty company, is focused on creating royalty diversification for indigenous people. Kody Penner, VP of Corporate Development at Nations Royalty, joined host Halley Keevil to explain the background and the business model. First, he tells his own story as an indigenous person growing up surrounded by British Columbia’s mining industry. The company, Nations Royalty, is the first indigenous-owned mining royalty company, and their indigenous ownership and management make them unique. He elaborates on how they balance corporate goals with indigenous goals and values, how they are creating wealth for indigenous groups, and what is next for the company in the future.
Next, Steve de Jong, CEO of VRIFY, talks about the company’s history and how they came to their current business model as an AI-focused mineral exploration and software service provider. Launching at PDAC in 2024 with just 4 clients, VRIFY now has 30 clients and gains 5-7 new clients per month. Steve discusses how their team of geoscientists and machine learning experts utilize every scrap of data from a company in order to build predictive models that deliver targets to their clients. He reviews the many ways in which VRIFY is unique in the industry, including the symbiotic relationship they have with clients, enabling them to use their proprietary software alongside the VRIFY team. He hints at some exciting current and future successes that the listener should stay tuned for. Steve believes we are about to enter into a period where AI will be ubiquitous in the mining industry, and VRIFY will be ahead of the game.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.com
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
Chapters
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SEG 2024 Student Chapter Challenge 3: Exploring Deposit Models and Mineral Systems from China to Peru
We are thrilled to bring you the top entries from the 2024 SEG Student Chapter Podcast Challenge as a special set of three episodes. This is the third and final bonus episode in this special series. We'll …
Show notes
We are thrilled to bring you the top entries from the 2024 SEG Student Chapter Podcast Challenge as a special set of three episodes. This is the third and final bonus episode in this special series. We'll hear two segments that consider ore deposit models and environment of formation for Au deposits, traveling from China to Japan.
Chapter 1: From mineral system to exploration: a case in giant Zaozigou Au-Sb deposits
SEG STUDENT CHAPTER: China University of Geosciences, Beijing (CUG-B)
Host: Jiayi Wang
Guest: Jingyuan Zhang
This podcast episode focuses on the understanding of mineral systems and their role in shaping exploration strategies, with the giant Zaozigou Au-Sb deposits as a case study. Detailed geological mapping, geochronology, fluid inclusion, and structure analysis have revealed the structural framework, precipitation mechanisms, and the separation of gold and antimony in the Zaozigou deposits. These theoretical insights lead to practical exploration advancements in predicting the gold-antimony orebody occurrence, avoiding ineffective engineering practices, and locating the distribution of native gold
Chapter 2: Hot spring deposits - key finder for hidden ore deposits along the Peruvian Andes
SEG STUDENT CHAPTER: SEG - NMSM (Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos)
Hosts: Rosa Razuri Prado and Paula Martinez Segura
Producers: Alvaro Zapata Cornejo, Jean Crisólogo Zapata, Braian Vara Guzman
Guest: Diana Pajuelo Aparicio, Professor at Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Peru
Peru is a country well-known for its complex geology, with hot springs distributed along high altitudes surrounded by unconsolidated deposits overlapping exhumed ore deposits. This podcast episode is focused on understanding the presence of economically important metals trapped inside hot spring deposits, revealing a potential key finder for uncovering hidden ore deposits.
Diana Pajuelo, geologist with 11 years of experience in regional geology and geothermal energy, participated in various projects with the Geological Survey of Peru. Her expertise provides a perspective on two types of hot spring deposits, the capacity for hosting metals influenced by biotic or abiotic factors, and the overlap between ore deposits and hot springs along the Andes.
Theme music is Hot Wheel Breakdown by Elliot Holmes stock.adobe.com epidemicsound.com
Adobe Stock ID: #356951050
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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SEG 2024 Student Chapter Challenge 2: Evolution of Geology in Brazil to the Mineral Potential of Northern England
We are thrilled to bring you the top entries from the 2024 SEG Student Chapter Podcast Challenge as a special set of three episodes. This second episode in the mini-series pairs the 2024 Silver the intriguing …
Show notes
We are thrilled to bring you the top entries from the 2024 SEG Student Chapter Podcast Challenge as a special set of three episodes. This second episode in the mini-series pairs the 2024 Silver the intriguing stories and history shared by an esteemed geologist in Brazil, with a second segment that uncovered the history and mining potential of northern England.
Chapter 1: Title: The Evolution of Geology in Brazil with Reinhardt Fück
SEG STUDENT CHAPTER – University of Brasilia
Hosts: Amanda Rompava and Gustavo D’Amore Heer
Producers: Juliana Berbert and Mariana
Guest: Professor Reinhardt Adolfo Fück
The theme of this episode tells the story behind the articles and mapping work of one of Brazil's greatest geological characters, with special emphasis on the magmatic arc of Goiás in the Brasília belt, where important deposits reside, as well as his significant work on crustal structure, the Tocantins Province, and Goiás Massif.
With a cautious eye and carrying the experience of working with geology since the 1960s, Professor Reinhardt shares with us the unwritten history behind published articles, his perspecitve on the evolution of knowledge in the field and also the importance of mapping for a geology career.
Chapter 2: ‘The Critical Mineral Potential of the North of England’
SEG STUDENT CHAPTER NAME: University of Leeds
Hosts, Lily Dickson and Brayden Pickard
Guests: Dr. James Shaw (structural geologist) and Adam Eskdale (Rio Tinto)
provides an overview of mineral exploration and extraction in our region of the UK, the North of England (Figure 1) and its critical mineral potential. In February 2024, our student chapter hosted a mini-conference on the subject of critical minerals (Figure 2) with talks from companies including British Lithium, the Critical Minerals Association (UK) and Green Lithium. We were inspired to carry out further research into the critical mineral potential of the region we live in, the North of England, which we present in this podcast. At present, the UK does not extract any of the 18 critical minerals on the 2021 list published by the British Geological Survey (BGS). This renders the UK completely reliant on international supply which is a big problem, and one that we must try to address through increased mineral exploration and mining in the near future.
In order to provide a full picture of the critical mineral potential of our region, we explore the rich mining history of the North of England, dating back to the Bronze Age at sites such as Alderly Edge (Figure 3). We also investigate current critical mineral projects: Li exploration around the Weardale Granite and Potash mining near the town of Whitby. Finally, we speak to Dr James Shaw and Dr Adam Eskdale who have worked on fluorspar mineralisation in the South Pennine Orefield and cobalt mineralisation in the Lake District, respectively. They provide insights into these deposits and to potential barriers to their extraction in the future.
A big thank you goes to Dr James Shaw and Adam Eskdale for sharing their expertise with our student chapter!
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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SEG 2024 Student Chapter Challenge 1: Mining Challenges from Greenland to the Deep Sea
We are thrilled to bring you the top entries from the 2024 SEG Student Chapter Podcast Challenge as a special set of three episodes. This episode pairs the 2024 Bronze winner with another that explored some of …
Show notes
We are thrilled to bring you the top entries from the 2024 SEG Student Chapter Podcast Challenge as a special set of three episodes. This episode pairs the 2024 Bronze winner with another that explored some of the political and environmental challenges in developing mineral deposits.
Chapter 1: The deposit that brought down a government
SEG STUDENT CHAPTER NAME: The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
Co-hosts: Rory Changleng, Alex Cerminaro
Producer: Rory Changleng
Chapter Notes
What mineral deposit became such a politicised commodity that it brought down a government? In this episode, two Penn State students, Rory and Alex, discuss what got them into geology and inspired them as budding economic geologists to begin a new SEG Student Chapter at Penn State. Alex reminisces about how trying to discover gold in his grandmother's garden in Pennsylvania led to his working with an Alaska exploration company to date gold mineralisation using a novel geochemical technique. Rory tells the story of the Ilimaussaq intrusion in Southern Greenland, home of the Kvanefjeld deposit. It was visiting this deposit during undergraduate fieldwork that opened his mind to the turbulent and consequential world of economic geology. Exploiting Kvanefjeld proved so divisive that it drove the collapse of the Greenlandic government. But as the second largest rare earth element deposit on Earth, surely it’s just a matter of time until mining begins?
Chapter 2: Should we Mine the Seafloor?
SEG STUDENT CHAPTER NAME: SEG of Athens
Host: Pavlos Zambras
Guests: Evi Dimou and Revekka Avoukatou
Chapter Notes
Exploring the depths of the ocean for valuable resources presents an alluring frontier in human endeavor: Deep Sea mining. This venture entails a journey into the unknown, facing both mysteries and challenges while uncovering the potential of extracting precious materials from the ocean floor.
The vast expanse of the deep sea, encompassing more than 65% of Earth's surface, harbors immense reservoirs of base metals, precious metals, and critical elements like nickel, copper, cobalt, and manganese. These elements are indispensable for powering the transition towards clean green energy. Whether it's polymetallic nodules or seafloor massive sulfide found at hydrothermal vent fields, these resources offer the promise of driving technological progress and fostering economic development in the years ahead.
However, the pursuit of these underwater treasures is not devoid of controversy. Deep sea mining raises profound concerns regarding its environmental impact, sustainability, and the ethical utilization of Earth's resources. It's crucial to acknowledge that these deep-sea environments host unique life forms not found elsewhere on the planet, including highly complex prokaryotic communities and microbes with exceptional tolerance to acidity and antibiotics.
International regulations governing deep sea mining are still under development, adding to the uncertainty surrounding this practice. Many fear the potential ecological disruption it could bring to an area of our planet that remains largely unexplored. The question arises: Can we afford the environmental and ecological risks associated with deep sea mining? Or, put more simply, should we proceed with mining the seafloor?
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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51. Africa - Geoscience Capacity Building and Collaboration for the Future
What is needed to build geoscience skills for mining and exploration in Africa? This wide-ranging panel discussion highlights industry, academic and government perspectives on establishing enduring …
Show notes
What is needed to build geoscience skills for mining and exploration in Africa? This wide-ranging panel discussion highlights industry, academic and government perspectives on establishing enduring relationships with local communities, with a focus on building geoscience and technical capabilities. The discussion explored the development of local technical staff for exploration and mining operations, the role of geological surveys in skill development and the impact of research carried out without local collaboration (‘parachute science’).
Hosted by Anne Thompson, the panel included Kurt House, CEO KoBold Metals, Kombada Mhopjeni, National Program Officer for Natural Sciences (UNESCO Windhoek), Benjamin Mapani, Professor Namibia University of Science and Technology and Franck Twite, Chief Geologist, Kamoa Copper S.A.
The discussion was recorded live in front of the conference audience in the Windhoek, Namibia on the 27 September 2024. We covered
The panel started with introducing themselves and the challenges they face or approaches they take to capacity building (skills training) in their work. The discussion including the following questions:
· How do exploration and mining companies create real change with long lasting community benefit? What makes a difference to community and government relationships?
· What can research and geological survey scientists do to help build global geoscience capacity and support public education?
· What do you think is the most important area to focus on as we look to the future?
· What makes you optimistic for the future of collaboration and our ability to build geoscience capacity?
We covered a lot, insights on the use of data science, how to get high school students interested in geoscience and even how cultural differences can impact our communication with each other.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.comCome join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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50. The Diverse Mineral Deposits and Geology of Namibia
Namibia is a country of diverse geology and mineral deposits that is also embracing the green energy transition. The diversity of critical minerals and metals and the expansion of green energy sources for …
Show notes
Namibia is a country of diverse geology and mineral deposits that is also embracing the green energy transition. The diversity of critical minerals and metals and the expansion of green energy sources for mining are all exciting for the future of Namibia.
Namibia is 'elephant country' in more than one way!
The Society of Economic Geologists is thrilled to collaborate with our partners the Geoscience Council of Namibia and the Geological Society of Namibia to host the SEG 2024 conference in Windhoek, September 27-30.
This episode explores the geology and mineral deposits, from the Proterozoic to the present and the mineral potential that exists throughout the country. We hope you will listen in and then join us in Windhoek in a few months!Anna Nguno, Deputy Director at the Geological Survey of Namibia (GSN), Ministry of Mines and Energy and co-chair of SEG 2024 introduces the episode with a conference teaser: what to expect at the conference, the main themes, technical sessions, field trips, and more.
Geological Mineral and Information System - Namibia (Geological Survey of Namibia)Next Roy Miller, previous Director of the Geological Survey of Namibia, provides an overview of the regional geology and tectonic history of Namibia, including the mineral deposits and economic potential of the various belts.
- Paleoproterozoic basement rocks contain the 1.2 Haib porphyry deposit.
- Mesoproterozoic rocks in the country are divided into 3 complexes, none of which contain extensive mineralization.
- The Neoproterozoic to Cambrian Damara Supergroup is the most extensive succession in Namibia, contains a wealth of different types of ore deposits, and is found in three belts: 1) the Damara belt in central Namibia; 2) the Kaoko belt in the northwest; and 3) the Gariep in the southwest
- The Carboniferous to Jurassic Karoo Supergroup contains thin lenses of coal and sandstone aquifers.
- Cretaceous continental breakup resulted in Etendeka flood basalts.
- At the end of the Cretaceous the region became semi-arid and the Kalahari Desert began to form. In wetter periods, the Orange River flooded and deposited diamonds from inland to the coast, 90% of which are gem quality and mined today by De Beers.
- From 21 million years ago, sand began to accumulate in major dune fields.
Finally, Mary Barton, Principal Geoscientist at Odikwa Geoservices, talks about her introduction to the field of geology and what a day in the life of a Namibian greenfields exploration geologist looks like. She discusses above ground risks in the country (including lions and cheetahs!), the placer diamond mining industry, and what opportunities the green transition might bring to the country.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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49. Lithium Brines, Clays and Pegmatites - Understanding a Metal on the Move
Understanding the earth processes that control lithium is key to exploration and developing the resources needed for society and the energy transition. The lightest of the metals, lithium moves easily in fluids …
Show notes
Understanding the earth processes that control lithium is key to exploration and developing the resources needed for society and the energy transition. The lightest of the metals, lithium moves easily in fluids and is found in a variety of geologic environments from brines to pegmatites to clays.
Host Anne Thompson explores the geoscience of lithium, assessing what we know and what are the challenges in the quest to supply the lithium needed by human society. Our three guests provide insights into the variety of lithium sources that potentially allow for geographically distributed supply.
We talked first to Rebecca Paisley, a geochemist with WSP Canada, to consider the diversity of lithium bearing brines and the fundamental nature of the metal. Its natural affinity to partition into the liquid phase means that lithium occurs in salty salar brines, a variety of geothermal brines and oil field brines. The value of your brine, however, also depends on the end-product required and the steps needed to extract it from the solution. Rebecca connects the value of lithium in brines to the whole mining circle.
Bob Linnen, Chief Geologist – Lithium, KoBold Metals, spent his academic career studying pegmatites and now continues to develop his ideas through global exploration. The high grades in lithium pegmatites make them appealing targets for exploration, and better positioned to survive big fluctuations in commodity price. Not all pegmatites, however, are created equal and much is still being learned about this important host for lithium resources as the mineral system view evolves.
Koopmans et al., 2023Lastly, we talked to Tom Benson, VP Global Exploration for Lithium Argentina. Tom thought he was going to be an academic after completing a PhD on Thacker Pass, Nevada, USA, but an opportunity to engage in research and exploration was too good to pass up. His work includes active collaboration with researchers around the world as well as exploration for new deposits. Tom frames the occurrence of lithium in clays at Thacker Pass within the context of volcano-sedimentary systems. The deposit has unique features, including the presence of higher grade illite in addition to lithium-bearing smectite.
New research globally focused on lithium resources continues to push our understanding and highlight the importance of its volatile nature in the ways in which it is concentrated and trapped.Next week is the last episode of Season 4 – we will head to Namibia, host to the SEG 2024 conference September 27-30, to explore the diverse geology and mineral deposits and hear about what the conference has in store.
Many thanks to our season 4 sponsor, Anglo American.
Our theme music is Confluence, by Eastwinds.Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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48. Big Data Wrangling for Core Sensing Technology
As our geo-toolkit expands, how can we equip ourselves to deal with these large volumes of highly diverse, dense data that are available and at higher speeds than ever before? This week’s episode is a companion …
Show notes
As our geo-toolkit expands, how can we equip ourselves to deal with these large volumes of highly diverse, dense data that are available and at higher speeds than ever before? This week’s episode is a companion to episode 47 (Core Sensing Technology) and host Britt Bluemel (Global Business Development Manager, ALS GoldSpot Discoveries) is joined by experts in the field of big data wrangling. They discuss considerations when dealing with data from core sensing systems, with the aim of empowering geologists with better decision-making tools throughout the mining value chain.
New out this week is also a great paper in the SEG Discovery Magazine by Anthony Harris and co-authors - Empowering Geologists in the Exploration Process - Maximizing Data Use from Enabling Scanning Technologies. Check it out for diagrams and case studies that demonstrate the use of core scanning technology.In this week's episode, our first guest, Dr. McLean Trott (Director, Ore Body Knowledge at ALS GoldSpot Discoveries) just completed his PhD on the topic of tackling big data and integration of various data streams, and how to extract the most value from datasets, including image data. Mac also discusses the utility of point measurement compared to line scanning or full core imaging, with an emphasis on fit-for-purpose data, while considering bottom line factors like speed and cost of data acquisition.
Next, we’re joined by Dr. Jack Milton, VP Geology at Fireweed Metals, and he provides the ‘end user’ perspective. Fireweed Metals has used XRF core scanning technology for several years and Jack describes some of the key benefits and real time decision making that is enabled by this technology. Jack also discusses good connectivity for transferring these huge data files (their on-site scanner has its own dedicated Starlink system) and the necessity of high quality calibrations when collecting XRF data in the field.
Our final guest, Brenton Crawford (Datarock’s Chief Geoscientist) cautions us not just to choose the coolest machine, but to select the sensor that’s right for the job. He discusses utilizing scanning data to create geometallurgical domains, and how project success can be increased by including your IT team in the early stages of the conversation.
Next week, Anne Thompson will be back with three exceptional guests, to discuss the geology of lithium and explore three different host environments, brines, clays and pegmatites.
Our theme music is Confluence, by Eastwinds.
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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47. Core Sensing Technology for Mineral Exploration and Mining - What, How and Why?
Drill core scanning technology is rapidly developing for use in exploration and mining. The future holds great promise if we can leverage all the data sets available from multiple sensors, but critical for …
Show notes
Drill core scanning technology is rapidly developing for use in exploration and mining. The future holds great promise if we can leverage all the data sets available from multiple sensors, but critical for success is understanding how the sensors and scanning systems work. What are the right questions to ask when picking our tools? Host Britt Bluemel, Global Business Development Manager for ALS Goldspot Discoveries, discusses three different types of sensors: hyperspectral for mineralogy, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for elements and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for data at the level of atoms.
Setting the scene in the first segment is Cari Deyell, Principal Spectral Geologist, Veracio. Cari takes us through the fundamentals of reflectance spectroscopy and builds out the case for mapping mineralogy from exploration through to mine development and ore body knowledge. The mineralogical data set provided by #spectroscopy can be enhanced when integrated with XRF and RGB photography. This integration will lead to fundamental advances in how we understand and mine ore bodies.
Our next story focuses on the benefits of using XRF scanners on drill core with Michelle Legat, Vice President at GeologicAI. Scanning up to 650m per day, they are able to map the elements present and correlate with grades and minerals. Good data from any system is important and Michelle addresses key parts of the data collection process, to ensure that you get the best possible result. Acquiring XRF data also means a better understanding of mobile and immobile elements, supporting lithogeochemistry and produces some exciting results for exploration programs.
François Doucet founder and CEO of Elemission, joins Britt for the last conversation and takes us through the background of LIBS and how it relates to other well-known geochemical analysis. Francois tells the story of the ground breaking moment of Curiosity landing on Mars in 1999 to the founding of Elemission, applying LIBS to the mapping of drill core. Scanning rates are dependent on the grain size of the minerals, with adjustments to higher speeds for pegmatites and coarse-grained rock. A breakthrough technology that takes the mapping of core down to the level of atoms.
Next week Britt will be back to explore how to handle the volumes of data generated by core scanning systems for use in all parts of the mining value chain.
Our theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds.
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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46. Rethinking Mineral Exploration - Less Carbon, Less Water, Better Data
Reducing the environmental impact of mineral exploration can reap benefits beyond the immediate obvious reduction of harm on the local flora and fauna. Perhaps unexpected for some are the savings in carbon and …
Show notes
Reducing the environmental impact of mineral exploration can reap benefits beyond the immediate obvious reduction of harm on the local flora and fauna. Perhaps unexpected for some are the savings in carbon and water, the positive impact on data collection, the response from local communities and the cost savings. Add to that an ability to recruit outstanding employees and you have a compelling argument for rethinking mineral exploration.
To find out what ideas a random sample of folks involved in mineral exploration had, we toured the exhibit hall of the recent AME Roundup 2024 in Vancouver, British Columbia. What did they think would reduce the environmental impact of mineral exploration? The ideas are wide ranging but hit on the critical point - take better data, be smart and be efficient.
Careful program planning, building new camp systems and continuing to innovate as they grow their business is built into the fundamental framework of Anomalous Exploration. Join us as we explore with Ellen Hunter-Perkins, CEO, how they approach small scale programs and the perhaps unexpected benefits of more time on the ground, in the field, to collect high quality data and the response they have had from potential employees.
Anomalous ExplorationInnovation is a core part of how Hy-tech operates, based out of Smithers, British Columbia. We talked to Brian Butterworth, President Hy-Tech Group about how they continue to adapt their systems and also build their international operations. For several years now, they have been operating centrifuges on their diamond drills, resulting in most of the water needed in diamond drilling being recycled. Several of their innovations result in lower fuel consumption and reduced equipment transportation. Paying attention to how we drill diamond holes can significantly reduce our environmental footprint.
Hy-tech Drilling
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds.Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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45. Career and Family in Exploration - the Benefits of Balance for the Industry
How can we balance the demands of careers in exploration with family life? How has the industry at large dealt with this in the past versus how companies handle it today? Filling the expected gaps in the …
Show notes
How can we balance the demands of careers in exploration with family life? How has the industry at large dealt with this in the past versus how companies handle it today? Filling the expected gaps in the exploration and mining workforce requires us to look internally at how we support employees to start families, care for parents or manage other personal circumstances. Communication with our managers, colleagues, spouses, and families are all equally important. Managing it collaboratively and with flexibility can make the difference, determining who stays and who leaves the industry.
Anne Thompson introduces the episode with some stories from her own early career as a field exploration geologist and while starting a family in the late 1980s. Anne’s early work in Utah, where she took her young daughter into the field was recently featured by the Utah Geological Survey.
Next, a husband-and-wife pair, Duncan and Catherine Proctor, discuss their own career paths and how they changed when they started a family. They tell the listeners how they balance their careers and their family and make sure both can be fulfilling for them. They also discuss the importance of being versatile when circumstances inevitably change in both their personal and professional lives.
Find out more about their story at ndp40 .Barbara Romero, Superintendent Exploration at BHP in Santiago, then discusses the challenges and opportunities of being a single mother in a job that requires significant travel. She talks about her experiences working for a major company raising a young daughter, from her first time away from home when her daughter was 6 months old to what life with her daughter is like now in a modern, post-pandemic world where flexible work schedules are the norm. She also discusses her challenges and her goals for the future.
Duncan, Catherine, and Barbara all discuss how they stay connected to their families while they are away, and give the listeners advice on how they can advocate for themselves in the workplace.
Tune in to get some stories and words of wisdom from these fantastic guests! Next episode we will switch gears and learn about the environmental impacts of exploration with host Anne Thompson.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds .
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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44. Seeing the Rocks - New Ideas in the Kiruna Mining District, Northern Sweden
The Kiruna Mining District, 200km north of the Arctic Circle in Sweden, is well known for the giant Kiruna Iron-Oxide-Apatite (IOA) deposit. The district has a long history of iron production extending back to …
Show notes
The Kiruna Mining District, 200km north of the Arctic Circle in Sweden, is well known for the giant Kiruna Iron-Oxide-Apatite (IOA) deposit. The district has a long history of iron production extending back to the late 1800s. Less well known are the copper deposits that are spatially associated with Kiruna. New work by both researchers and explorationists is providing a better understanding of the complicated relationships in these Proterozoic rocks. A shift in mindset is allowing for new perspectives and an opportunity for discovery.
We first talked to Leslie Logan, PhD candidate at Luleå University of Technology. Her study focuses on the tectonic framework of the Svecokarelian greenstone belt and uses a mineral systems approach to understand mineral occurrences in the district. The origin of the copper deposits has long been debated. Leslie’s work provides new data and interpretation to understand the origins and relationship of the deposits with each other.
Leslie Logan - Luleå University of TechnologyOur second guest was Marcello Imaña, Chief Geologist from Copperstone Resources to talk about the history of Viscaria Cu-Fe deposit which is immediately adjacent to the giant Kiruna IOA deposit. Mining at Viscaria was carried out from 1982 to 1997. Most recently, Copperstone Resources acquired the deposit and are aiming to be in full production again in 2026 after a very successful exploration phase. Their secret was going to an old place with new ideas. Marcello shares how they changed their mindsets staying away from models and relying on what they saw in the rocks. He believes that successful efforts at Viscaria will transform and promote the Kiruna Mining District for copper.
Copperstone Resources Viscaria
Our music is Confluence by Eastwinds.Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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43. Let the Rocks Talk - Mineral Systems and Deposit Models in Northern Sweden
Exploration and mining have a long history in northern Sweden, host to the Skellefteä, Bergslagen, and Kiruna Mining Districts. What are the underlying characteristics that make this region rich in …
Show notes
Exploration and mining have a long history in northern Sweden, host to the Skellefteä, Bergslagen, and Kiruna Mining Districts. What are the underlying characteristics that make this region rich in mineralization? We explore the metallogeny, mineral systems and deposit models that guide exploration for base metals and gold. What has changed over the last century and what do we know now that will help guide the next discoveries?
First, we talked to Nils Jansson, Associate Professor at Luleå Tekniska Universitet about the metallogeny and diverse mineral occurrences in the Skellefteä, Bergslagen, and Kiruna Mining Districts. His academic and industry background helped us understand how and why some deposit types occur together and the challenges of using genetic models. An open mind, an understanding of the complexities present and a mineral systems approach are all important in guiding exploration for deep, hidden deposits.
In our second story, Mac Persson, an exploration geologist from Boliden Minerals shares the history, culture, and challenges in the Skellefteä District. The world-class mining district has been explored for over a century and hosts numerous deposits, dominantly VMS mineralization, but also porphyry, orogenic gold and magmatic nickel deposits. He talked about the significance of Au-rich VMS deposits for Boliden Minerals and how the company explores them using innovative methods and legacy data.
Both of our guests were field trip leaders at the SEG 2022 Base, Precious and Critical Metal Deposits of the Paleoproterozoic Skellefteä District, Sweden. They have extensive experience and perspective on working in this challenging terrain.
Our music is Confluence by Eastwinds.Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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42. Tethyan Belt in Türkiye – Exploration Potential and Recent Discoveries
Türkiye forms an integral part of the Tethyan Belt, extending from the Balkans in the west to Iran in the east. The complexity of the geology in Turkish Tethyan Bet also offers diverse mineralization styles and …
Show notes
Türkiye forms an integral part of the Tethyan Belt, extending from the Balkans in the west to Iran in the east. The complexity of the geology in Turkish Tethyan Bet also offers diverse mineralization styles and is still considered underexplored compared to other countries. We talked to our guests with diverse backgrounds to understand the exploration potential and recent successes across the regions.
Our first guest is İlkay Kuşçu, Exploration Projects Consultant with SSR Mining, who has over three decades of experience on the Turkish Tethyan Bel. He provides a valuable overview of the belt and exploration history of the country.
Then, we talked to Firuz Alizade, Head of Global Exploration with Lidya Mining. In 2015, he led the team in discovering a high-grade Au-Cu Hod Maden deposit and was also the recipient of 2020 PDAC’s Thayer Lindsley award. He shared Hod Maden's exploration story.
The third guest, Ali İmer, is an assistant professor of Economic Geology at METU Turkey. His primary focus has been on the Porphyry-Epithermal System in Eastern Anatolia, sharing the tectonomagmatic evolution of the region with a comparison to Iran.
Our last guests are Elif Tekin, Business Development Manager with ESAN and past-chair WIM Turkey, and Bader Bilgin, Exploration Geologist with SSR Mining. Elif Tekin informs us about WIM's activities and future goals in Turkey. She also remarks on the importance of resourcing geologists. Then, Bader Bilgin tells us why an early career geologist would need a mentor and how SEG and WIM mentorship benefited her.
Our music is Confluence by Eastwinds.Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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41. Artisanal Mining - Building Geoscience Capacity with Collaboration
Artisanal mining is full of both opportunities and challenges. How can we collaborate to build capacity for artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), particularly in Africa? We talk about the many aspects of ASM …
Show notes
Artisanal mining is full of both opportunities and challenges. How can we collaborate to build capacity for artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), particularly in Africa? We talk about the many aspects of ASM and the importance of geology in creating longer term, sustainable mining operations. Each of our guests has personal experience and knowledge to bring to the conversations.
We talked first to Nicole Smith, assistant Professor at the Colorado School of Mines and an expert on artisanal and small-scale mining. She provides an excellent overview of the sector and its many facets and addresses the fundamental question of why we should be working towards formalization of artisanal mining globally.
In our second story, Manuel Nopeia, a post-doctoral fellow at Akita University in Japan addresses the need for use of geological models in establishing formalization of artisanal mining in Mozambique. We connected just a few days ago to find out more about his story and the importance of ASM in his home country, where exploration and discovery of gold deposits is dominated by artisanal miners. Manuel published a thought provoking paper in Science Direct that addresses the need for geological models in the formalization of artisanal mining in Mozambique.
Nopeia et. al, 2022Having heard what the challenges are and how important building capacity is – we turned to John Tychsen, CEO at ASSM Consult, to learn what the PanAfGeo program is doing to help. PanAfGeo is a European Union funded effort that brings 12 European geological surveys together with all the surveys and ministries of mines in Africa to support advancing geoscience. John has delivered workshops to representatives from all 54 African countries as part of the ASM work package.
PanAfGeo - ASM
Our music is Confluence, by Eastwinds.
EastwindsCome join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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40. Fit for Purpose Mining Methods
Three completely different types of ore deposits demand 'fit for purpose' mining methods. We consider the move in the last 20 years to ‘super’ block caving, unlocking massive deep resources, then …
Show notes
Three completely different types of ore deposits demand 'fit for purpose' mining methods. We consider the move in the last 20 years to ‘super’ block caving, unlocking massive deep resources, then change scale and examine an innovative new technology that enables ‘surgical mining’. Lastly, changing the mining method for Cobre's project in the Kalahari Copper Belt, Botswana, to in-situ leach may unlock new potential for the region.
We start with a look at block caving to consider the benefits and challenges of working in large deposits at greater and greater depths. We talked to Katrina Crook a mining engineer, currently with Glencore where she is Lead - Governance & Integration, Value Realisation. Her diverse experience provides provides a great overview of how the method works, the importance of geological knowledge and expertise and the challenges that need to be overcome.
Epiroc Youtube Video - Block CavingIn our next story we consider a completely different mining challenge and change the scale of the target. Allan Cramm is the VP Innovation for Novamera – a technology company with a new approach to mining, finding ways to unlock value in high grade narrow zones by using ‘surgical mining.’ They are employing a large diameter drill in conjunction with an innovative sensor technology and software to mine a range of targets that previously would have been stranded.
Novamera - Surgical Mining VideoLastly - what do you do when you the high grade, underground mining target eludes you, but what you discover is too deep for an open pit? In the case of Cobre, an Australian listed company, they recognized an opportunity for an in-situ copper recovery operation. We talked to their CEO, Adam Wooldridge to find out the story behind the discovery and their plans going forward.
In-Situ Recovery - Sinclair and Thompson, 2015
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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39. Crystallizing your Communication - the Power of Words
Effective geoscience outreach and scientific collaboration are enhanced by our choice of words and communication tools. Our guests Sam Illingworth and Chris Jackson offer fresh perspectives based on their own …
Show notes
Effective geoscience outreach and scientific collaboration are enhanced by our choice of words and communication tools. Our guests Sam Illingworth and Chris Jackson offer fresh perspectives based on their own experience and work. They focus on what we as individuals can do, from using poetry to solve scientific roadblocks, to ways in which we can better connect with audiences of all types – even those within our own work environments. Both challenge us to be more professional in our geoscience communication and work on measuring our impact.
Sam Illingworth, an Associate Professor at Edinburgh Napier University discusses his work, specifically using poetry as a tool for dialogue and reimagining a problem. Sam views poetry as being able to provide a space for dialogue. It connects scientists and non-scientists, enabling the development of research and enabling knowledge dissemination. He encourages us to do a better job of measuring the value of our geoscience outreach projects. Sam produces a poetry podcast, is an editor of Consilience (science poetry journal) and the journal Geoscience Communication.
Geoscience Communication journal
Geologize Communication Course
Our second guest, Chris Jackson, is the Director of Sustainable Geosciences at Jacobs and Visiting Professor of Basin Analysis at Imperial College in London. He brings all our themes together and emphasizes how important it is for geoscientists to be effective communicators. His participation in shows like ‘Expedition Volcano’ on the BBC has allowed him to bring geoscience to a broader audience and engage them in a different, more accessible manner. Whoever is the audience, whether it be colleagues or school children, the key to success is making them feel smarter by the end of your presentation. This results also results in a more engaged and interested audience. The key questions are - How can we simplify without losing accuracy? What are the benefits and challenges in diversifying voices? Everyone can embrace geoscience communication at whatever level works for them.
Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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38. New Horizons in Geoscience Communication
In the evolving world of communication in geology and geoscience, the importance of dialogue leads the way to deal with some of society’s grand challenges. Iain Stewart is at the forefront, helping build …
Show notes
In the evolving world of communication in geology and geoscience, the importance of dialogue leads the way to deal with some of society’s grand challenges. Iain Stewart is at the forefront, helping build effective communication strategies to advance the global geoscience mission. We also explore an example of empathetic, community centred dialogue with Kate Moore. A two-way conversation is critical to building the mines of the future, supplying the energy transition and supporting a broad range of geology-related societal challenges.
Iain Stewart is the El Hassan bin Talal Research Chair in Sustainability at the Royal Scientific Society (Jordan) and Professor of Geoscience Communication at the University of Plymouth (UK). Iain has spent decades honing his communication skills, including a 15-year partnership with the BBC, but his thinking around communication continues to evolve. We talked to him about how he arrived at an approach of seeking to understand what people want to know, ultimately summed up by the question ‘how can we help?’. Importantly, he recently published a paper , Three Horizons for Future Geoscience, that uses the dialogic tool of the three horizons as a framework for thinking about systemic change and what pathways we can use to move away from the ‘business as usual’ approach. The paper evaluates the current state of geoscience, particularly in advanced economies, and poses one narrative that can be used to reimagine the global geoscientific mission. There aren’t easy answers, but there are ways in which we can build dialogue and seek solutions together.
Dialogue and asking the question ‘how can we help you?’ was fundamental to Kate Moore’s team on the large EU Horizon 2020 project, IMPaCT. Kathryn Moore, Senior Lecturer in Critical and Green Technology Metals, Cambourne School of Mines, was part of the team that worked with Mineco, a small mining company operating in Bosnia. Success in the project required multidisciplinary dialogue, across all technical disciplines and with the local community. One of their big challenges was also to create enduring and effective public outreach. Through both creative thinking and a series of fortuitous and challenging events, the final product was a thoughtful and provocative book entitled ‘Of Earth, For Earth.’ The book was published by the University of Exeter and is available from a variety of sources.
Our theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds.Come join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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37. Geoscience Communication on Three Continents
In many geoscience communities, the topic of declining enrollments globally across the discipline is very worrying. How can we demonstrate to the public the critical role earth science plays in supporting …
Show notes
In many geoscience communities, the topic of declining enrollments globally across the discipline is very worrying. How can we demonstrate to the public the critical role earth science plays in supporting well-being of both human society and ecological systems? This episode highlights inspiring stories from three continents in the southern hemisphere – all early career scientists who are engaging with the public, running education programs for students, conducting interviews and more. What do all three have in common? They are passionate and curious, not afraid to ask questions or step out of their comfort zones, and willing to work on their own time. Join us and get inspired!
Irene Del Real used her major international L’Oréal award as a springboard, building on opportunities given to her to extend her reach. She regularly gives interviews on CNN Chile and presents at public forums, including a recent major science conference in Santiago. She is currently writing a book on the history of metals and human society and is an assistant professor at Universidad Austral de Chile in Valdivia. We talked to her about what resonates with her audience and how she develops her messaging.
After his village was hit by a devastating earthquake in 2016, George Rwegoshora, who was then a second-year university student, decided that he could help provide information and educate his community about earthquakes. He since graduated, worked in coal mines for 3 years and then in 2021 founded the Afrikagera Geological Center in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. As the Executive Director, he works with a group of 18 scientists to develop educational programs for students. These include classroom and field excursions, covering a range of topics, including mineral resources.
Combining her passion for geoscience and earth history with communication seems to come naturally for Holly Cooke, but her success really comes from the hours put in on her own time creating content and designing programs. Holly is a student geologist with Oz Minerals and an outreach officer with the Nexus Program in South Australia. She is an articulate and excellent communicator. She seized on an opportunity to bring high school students into the South Australia drill core library, giving them a hands on tour of the geological history of South Australia, and creating opportunities for informal challenging conversations.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.comCome join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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36. Two Facets of Diamonds
Diamonds have long captured the imagination and interest of people across the globe. Each stone has a unique story to tell, and those stories are only becoming deeper and more fascinating with the latest …
Show notes
Diamonds have long captured the imagination and interest of people across the globe. Each stone has a unique story to tell, and those stories are only becoming deeper and more fascinating with the latest advancements in geoscience, social science and consumer activism.
This week’s episode looks at two different facets of diamonds. Evan Smith is a Senior Research Scientist at the Gemological Institute of America. He introduces us to superdeep diamonds, a small subset of diamonds produced globally that have both exceptional monetary and scientific value, especially when it comes to learning about processes that operate deep inside Earth’s mantle.
Gemological Institute of AmericaAbout 2 million women and men globally are involved directly in mining for diamonds, primarily at artisanal and small-scale (ASM) operations. Cristina Villegas is Director of Sustainable Markets at Pact, a Washington D.C. based NGO. She sets out how ASM today contrasts with the often-tainted picture from popular fiction and discusses recent innovations involving the ASM and big-business community that are bringing life-changing, positive transformations millions of diamond miners around the world.
Pact - Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.comCome join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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35. Drilling - All the Angles
Arguably the most important tool in exploration and mining is the drill, without it we lack the ability to collect data in that critical third dimension. We start with the basics of drilling technologies and …
Show notes
Arguably the most important tool in exploration and mining is the drill, without it we lack the ability to collect data in that critical third dimension. We start with the basics of drilling technologies and communication between geologists and drillers, then delve into the power unleashed by oriented core and real-time data collection of critical drilling metrics. From the current state of the art to the changes on the horizon for drilling, this episode covers all the angles.
Kevin Slemko, Corporate Business Development Manager, Major Drilling kicks off this episode by first reviewing the standard drilling techniques used by the industry. That discussion provides the platform to discuss wedges, directional drilling, and automation. The industry is much closer than ever before to have standard automation on rigs. Kevin is also a passionate believer in bridging the gaps between drillers and geologists such that everyone benefits from understanding what each other is doing.
Did you know that porphyry stockworks can have a preferred orientation? Chris Brown, Principal Consultant , Oriented Targeted Solutions explains the processes available to orient core as well as the big wins that can come from spending the extra time and money to acquire oriented core. A big factor in success is the training of geologists on-site for quality control and to support real-time targeting. Chris also shares the successes achieved at the Bullfrog project in Nevada once oriented core was obtained and used.
Spurred by frustrations in acquiring and tabulating drill data reports, Jody Conrad, founder and CEO of Krux Analytics channeled her energy into building a drilling metrics SAS business for the mining industry. There is more to be gained, however, than just knowing how many meters were drilled in a day. Complete, real time, drilling data could yield important information about geology and the targets we are seeking.
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.comCome join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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34. Exploring Spatial Mineralogy Data
Linking whole rock geochemistry with mineralogy provides tremendous value to exploration and mining projects. We all want high quality, reliable results to make the best maps and models. What are the critical …
Show notes
Linking whole rock geochemistry with mineralogy provides tremendous value to exploration and mining projects. We all want high quality, reliable results to make the best maps and models. What are the critical factors in acquiring spectral or geochemical data? How can we be sure our spectroscopy and geochemistry are the best they can be? How do we integrate our mineralogy data sets? Join us to learn the questions you should be asking!
Sebastian Benavides is Discovery Manager for Peru and Ecuador, Anglo American. A geoscientist passionate about generative work, he manages exploration teams and uses spectral data to enhance their capacity to identify targets at multiple scales. Sebastian also shares with us the unusual alteration at the Taca Taca porphyry in Argentina where spectroscopy and mineral chemistry helped to improve understanding of the main ore zone.
Spectroscopy is widely used in a variety of exploration and mining projects. We checked in with Sam Scher of LKI Consulting and podcast host of GeocHemisTea to talk about important issues in spectral data collection. What do we need to know to get good data? Why worry? We also considered how you might vary what options you use depending on the goals of the work.https://lkiconsulting.com/
To bring it all together, Scott Halley shows us the power of linking whole rock geochemistry and spectral mineralogy – especially mineral chemistry. He provides all the incentive you need to work on getting the best spectral data possible. The conversation is focused on the special synergies between the two data sets, but also on the benefits of bringing the data back to the core shack and the geologist.
https://www.scotthalley.com.au/
Theme music is Confluence by Eastwinds
eastwindsmusic.comCome join us in Salt Lake City, Utah for SEG 2026, September 30th to October 3rd.
You can expect world-class technical content, including iconic ore deposits and the geological processes of North American Cordillera. The program balances applied case studies, framework geology, and technological innovation. The conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of economic geology. See you there.
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