A PhD student with a connective tissue disorder owning a Mardi Gras float is just the beginning of the interesting topics covered in this podcast. They discuss first tattoos, quirky parents, defining partying, rare diseases, writing separate alien books, Unitarian Universalism, and body incidents at apple orchards.
Owning a Mardi Gras float is a unique and incomparable experience, like being a rockstar with wild energy and lots of fun.
Having a connective tissue disorder like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can significantly impact daily life, but maintaining a positive attitude and creating memorable experiences is crucial.
Shifting science education towards developing analytical and critical thinking skills can better equip students to make informed decisions and contribute to innovation.
Deep dives
Owning a Mardi Gras float: A Wild and Rockstar-Like Experience
Owning a Mardi Gras float is like being a rockstar, with people screaming for your attention and wanting the beads you throw. The energy is wild, with music, dancing, and lots of fun. While people do drink, it's mostly a normal Mardi Gras experience, with substances such as cocaine not a part of it. The float owners are usually older, but as the next generation takes over, the culture may shift. The experience is unique and incomparable to anything else.
Navigating Life with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
The caller has Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a connective tissue disorder that affects joints and other organs in the body. She only discovered she had EDS two years ago, despite having symptoms her whole life. It has impacted her mobility and daily life, with joints frequently dislocating and resulting in pain. However, she remains positive and focuses on making the most of her experiences and creating memories while she still can.
Pursuing a PhD in Science Education
The caller is currently pursuing a PhD in curriculum and instruction with a focus on science instruction. She is passionate about shifting the approach to science education from simply cramming facts into students' heads to developing their analytical and critical thinking skills. By teaching them to think like scientists and evaluate evidence, she believes that students will be better equipped to make informed decisions and contribute to innovation.
The Caller's Fun and Party-Loving Personality
The caller is described as having both a serious and fun side. She enjoys the party atmosphere of Mardi Gras, owning a Mardi Gras float, and throwing the best party every year. Despite pursuing a serious academic career, she doesn't fit the stereotypes and surprises people with her unique experiences, including being heavily tattooed and engaging in various activities like making caramel apples and carving jack-o-lanterns with friends.
The Importance of Supportive Partnerships
The podcast episode explores the significance of having a supportive partner in dealing with chronic illness. The host discusses their own experience of having a supportive husband who helps them navigate their health challenges. The conversation highlights the importance of having someone who believes in and supports you during difficult times.
The Joys of Travel and Cultural Exploration
Another key theme in the podcast is the love for travel and the desire to explore different cultures. The host shares their passion for traveling and connecting with locals in various parts of the world. They emphasize the enriching experiences and personal growth that come from immersing oneself in different cultural perspectives. The conversation also touches on specific travel destinations such as San Francisco and New York City, as well as the desire to visit all inhabited continents.
This week’s caller is a PhD student with a connective tissue disorder who owns a Mardi Gras float. And that barely scratches the surface of what she and Gethard talk about. From first tattoos, to quirky parents, to defining what constitutes partying to this caller, she and Geth pack a lot into this hour long conversation.
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