How can we move beyond just explaining science to creating experiences that invite curiosity and connection?

In this episode of the Science with Impact Podcast,  Jocelyn Bosley, Research Impact Coordinator at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and curator of Fun Size Physics, explores how scientists can reconnect with their sense of wonder by sharing research in ways that resonate with broader audiences.

With a background that bridges physics, history of science, and interdisciplinary education, Jocelyn brings a unique perspective to the challenge of making complex ideas accessible without losing accuracy. She reflects on the role of broader impacts, the importance of defining concrete audiences, and how projects like Fun Size Physics can shift public perception of fields like condensed matter physics.

From mentoring middle school students to building national research impact capacity through ARIS, Jocelyn shows how thoughtful communication can both expand the reach of science and re-inspire the researchers doing it.

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🤔 Who is this for?

  1. Science communicators and impact leaders ready to turn complex research into stories that spark curiosity and connection.
  2. Researchers and educators who want to rekindle their love for science while making their work accessible and meaningful.
  3. Students and mentors eager to embrace interdisciplinary thinking and discover the human side of STEM.

📋 What is it about?

Jocelyn Bosley shares how her journey—from math puzzles to physics labs to history of science—shaped her passion for connecting people with science. She introduces Fun-Sized Physics, a project designed to make condensed matter physics accessible and awe-inspiring, and reflects on how interdisciplinary perspectives, storytelling, and even poetry can help researchers communicate with impact.

🔑 Key Takeaway:  Science isn’t one-size-fits-all. By embracing storytelling, metaphors, and audience-centered communication, researchers can make complex ideas resonate, reconnect with their own sense of wonder, and show people that there’s a kind of science for everyone.

⌚️ Time Stamps

00:00 Introduction: The Love for Science

00:37 Welcome to the Podcast

00:52 Meet Jocelyn Bosley

01:18 The Importance of Broader Impacts

04:27 Discovering a Passion for Science

10:23 The Marshmallow Experiment and Delayed Gratification

11:48 Interdisciplinary Perspectives in Science

16:29 Fun Size Physics: Bridging Gaps in Science Communication

17:44 Condensed Matter Physics: More Than Meets the Eye

21:42 The Impact of Poetry and Physics 21:58 Understanding Condensed Matter Physics

23:11 Translating Complex Science for General Audiences

24:38 Using AI to Aid Science Communication

26:26 Balancing Accuracy and Precision in Science Communication

28:20 The Importance of Audience in Communication

31:26 Objectivity and Passion in Science

36:27 The Role of Mentorship in Science

44:33 Closing Thoughts and Future Guests

📣 Guest:

Jocelyn Bosley — Research Impact Coordinator, University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Curator, Fun Size Physics

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Science with Impact provides:
1. Evidence-based impact measurement and communication.
2. Lasting national and local partnerships with STEM organizations.
3. Impact-centered professional development for students.