The ISAT Podcast

As stated in the titular song, “Video Killed the Radio Star,” it is often interpreted as a commentary on how visual media superseded the popularity of radio. However, radio has taken on a new, more popular form in recent years — podcasts.

With innovation comes practical application, and Jadon Moon, an Integrated Science and Technology major, harnessed the medium to create an ISAT podcast — a result of his capstone project.

Initially, Moon planned to produce a film to educate viewers about a science-related concept. However, after consulting with his ISAT professors and advisers, Rafaat Zaini and Emily York, Moon developed a podcast instead. While his goal remained educational, Moon narrowed the focus to show prospective students, educators, and those interested in ISAT “how science is relevant to them and how they can contribute and get involved.”

Choosing a podcast format allowed Moon to add a conversational feel to the show, engaging listeners and fostering a connection with the speakers. “Conversation can really ebb and flow and be more or less formal,” York explained. “And I think that is both engaging [and enables] us to have pretty interesting kinds of conversations.”

Moon collaborated with fellow ISAT students to produce a pilot episode. Selina Matolak designed the podcast’s logo and social media page, while Chad Kassan worked with Moon to write the inaugural episode. The pilot featured Zaini and York discussing their current work, their involvement in the podcast, and the importance of ISAT.

Moon aims to refine the successful elements for future episodes and invite a broader range of guests, including students, alumni, faculty and community members. Episodes will address topics on the impacts of science and technology. “We’ll talk about topics that are engaging and helpful for both scientists and people who aren’t really interested in science,” Moon explained. This approach ensures accessibility, allowing those outside the ISAT major to appreciate the interdisciplinary perspective embraced by ISAT students and faculty.

“I think since ISAT is a one-of-a-kind major,” Moon said. “[Its] interdisciplinary nature and broad topics are what makes it relevant to almost everyone.”

The inaugural episode premiered in December 2023, and the second episode will be released in late April and can be found on Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram.