Show Notes
We discuss the Zanclean Megaflood, a massive flood event that filled the Mediterranean Sea in a remarkably short period. The episode dives into the geological events and evidence leading up to this flood, challenging the earlier gradualist theories and promoting a catastrophic model.
We are joined by Mike Sowden, whose engaging Twitter thread about the Zanclean Megaflood reached over 10 million people. Sowden, a travel writer and science communicator, shares insights on his curiosity-driven approach to science writing and storytelling. They explore other massive geological events, the nature of scientific discovery, and the human stories behind scientific advancements.
The episode is filled with fascinating facts, storytelling techniques, and a deep appreciation for the wonders of our planet.
If you want to find out more about certain topics that come up, you can try these: Julian May Sci-Fi books. Roland Emmerich disaster films. Previous Al Humphreys and Brendan Leonard podcast episodes. Missoula Floods in the USA.
Episode Summary 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 00:45 Introducing the ZanClean Megaflood 01:43 Special Guest: Mike Sowden 03:01 Mike Sowden's Journey and Writing Style 07:29 The ZanClean Megaflood: Geological Background 12:55 The Catastrophic Flood Event 17:25 Speculations and Analogies 22:33 Doggerland and Other Historical Floods 23:43 The Storegga Slide and Doggerland Tsunamis 24:45 Dating the Storegga Slide 25:06 The Zanclean Megaflood 27:23 The Role of Storytelling in Science Communication 32:23 The Human Element in Engineering 34:30 The Fascination with Scientists' Obsessions 40:54 Geological Events and Their Impact 45:53 The Process of Science Writing 50:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
All music on this podcast series is provided by the highly talented Franc Cinelli Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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