Research Outside of the Box - A Faculty Development Podcast
Research Outside of the Box is Faculty Development's podcast about unconventional and unique research happening at Texas State and the innovative research approaches faculty use along the way. We hope this podcast inspires you to stay curious, and dare to research outside of the box yourself.
Episodes
Episode 1: Rivers, Research, and Relationships (Dr. Weston Nowlin)
Dr. Weston Nowlin (Professor - Biology) is an ecosystem and community ecologist, specializing in aquatic ecosystems. We sat down with Dr. Nowlin to discuss his latest research initiative, the Army Corp Grant project focusing on predicting the future of river systems, and how collaboration is key to research success and fresh water sustainability.
Contact Info: wnowlin@txstate.edu
Episode 2: Nurture Neurodiversity (Dr. Maria Resendiz)
Dr. Maria Resendiz is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication Disorders. She has worked with bilingual children and children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in school, rehabilitation, and early childhood settings. In this episode, Dr. Resendiz highlights her recent project, Nurture Neurodiversity, a collaborative effort to create a hub of information for Autistic individuals and their families by redefining what “quality research” can and should mean. If you are interested in participating in this research, contact Dr. Resendiz.
Contact Info: mr54@txstate.edu
Episode 3: The Green-Green Dilemma (Dr. Sarah Fritts)
Dr. Sarah Fritts is an Associate Professor and wildlife biologist who researches the habitat use, movement, and spatial variations of various wildlife populations in response to changes that occur, naturally or by human-interaction, to a multitude of environments. One big research initiative that Dr. Fritts is overseeing is the correlation between an increase in wind energy production and an increase in bat deaths in Texas. Find out what is causing bat-demise, how researchers are working to combat the deaths, and what Dr. Fritts says is key to succeeding as a researcher.
Contact Info: fritts.sarah@txstate.edu
Episode 4: Enter: Fly Larvae (Dr. Merritt Drewery)
Dr. Merritt Drewery is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Animal Science focusing her research on the identification of novel feedstuffs to enhance livestock production. As a recent project wraps up, we chat with Dr. Drewery to learn about a new potential ingredient in cattle feed: fly larvae! Humans may not want to consume it, but the cows don't seem to mind. Listen in as we dive deeper into cow stomachs, sustainability, and advice on researching outside of the box.
Contact Info: m_d553@txstate.edu
Episode 5: What We Can Really Gain from Video Games (Dr. Brad Robinson)
Dr. Brad Robinson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction. Dr. Robinson's research examines the influence of digital platforms on the literate lives of young people both in and out of school. His latest research looks at the potential opportunities for video games—specifically how video game creation can help young people navigate self-discovery and practice identity reflection. Join us as Dr. Robinson talks about historical narratives surrounding video games and what can we unlock in ourselves when we are given the freedom of creativity, a platform with endless possibilities, and the bravery to break out of the box.
Contact Info: tbr52@txstate.edu
Episode 6: Fermented Landscapes (Dr. Colleen Myles)
Dr. Colleen Myles is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies studying human-environment interactions, cultural and political ecology, and qualitative methods. In this episode, Dr. Myles gives us insight into what it’s like to become the type of participant you are looking at—to truly dive headfirst. Join us as we also learn about fermented landscapes, tastemaking, and placemaking—and what the heck that all means in the wine industry!
Contact Info: cch64@txstate.edu
Episode 7: The Science of Sweat, Salt, and Self-Care (Dr. Stacy Hunter)
Dr. Stacy Hunter is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance. Studying the effects of yoga on vascular function, Dr. Hunter shares data on how yoga can literally transform your health in a matter of weeks. Join us for this episode as we talk about the importance of caring for one’s health as well maintaining healthy balances as researchers.
Contact Info: s_h393@txstate.edu
Episode 8: Rising Tides Lift All Boats: Small Businesses, Big Ideas (Dr. Joshua Daspit & Jessica Schneider)
Dr. Joshua Daspit is an Associate Professor of Management and the Dean Paul R. Gowens Excellence Professor in Business at Texas State University. He specializes in entrepreneurship research, focusing on family firms and small businesses. Jessica Schneider is the Director of the Resilience Research Programs at the TXST Translational Health Research Center and a certified research administrator with a master's degree in technical communication and over fifteen years of experience in higher education. Together, Dr. Daspit and Jessica created a unique way to learn about and connect with their research participants, underrepresented small business owners in Texas. Join us as we talk about GRIT, communities, and the power of celebration.
Contact Info: Dr. Joshua Daspit: j_d599@txstate.edu; Jessica Schneider: jaschneider@txstate.edu