How Does Nature Optimize Space and Manage Compression? With Dr. Clint Penick

Learning from Nature: The Biomimicry Podcast with Lily Urmann

MP3•Pagina principale dell'episodio

4:38

A woman’s search for her father—a pilot who disappeared during a mission in Vietnam—collides with the fight over what we owe those who never returned from war. From the producers of "America's Girls" and "Tom Brown's Body," and hosted by Texas Monthly writer Josh Alvarez, the show debuts April 2025. Texas Monthly Audio subscribers get early access to the show, plus bonus episodes and more subscriber-only audio. Visit texasmonthly.com/audio to learn more.…

2 anni fa 51:14

Honeycomb and the hexagon shape is very popular in the biomimicry design space, but what makes it efficient and resilient? In this episode, Dr. Clint Penick dives deep into the function of optimizing space and managing compression, as it relates to bee and wasp nests. There is so much more to the honeycomb shape than most people initially realize, and this conversation sheds light on some of the details behind this "genius" in the natural world. We also chat about urban ecology, social insects, the importance of collaborative research, and so much more.
Grab your Learning from Nature merch!
Follow Lily on Instagram: @lilylearnsfromnature
If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link.

Support the show

28 episodi

#Science #Environment #Lily Urmann #Podcasting Education #Natural Sciences

How Does Nature Optimize Space and Manage Compression? With Dr. Clint Penick

Learning from Nature: The Biomimicry Podcast with Lily Urmann

0-10 subscribers

published 2 anni fa

MP3•Pagina principale dell'episodio

Support the show

28 episodi

#Science #Environment #Lily Urmann #Podcasting Education #Natural Sciences

Tutti gli episodi

1
Bio-Alchemy and Diving into Nature’s Sleight of Hand with Andrew Meador 34:19

12 giorni fa34:19

34:19

Humans are a very young species. Compared to the other organisms that we share this planet with, we are novices in how to live in harmony here. Mimicking nature’s elegant and efficient structures on the micro-and nano-scale has been a major limiting factor in our designs. But we are making progress in learning from nature’s structure and chemistry. Doing reactions at ambient temperature and pressure with nontoxic materials is still mostly an aspiration for us; but nature can lead the way. Andrew Meador explores the momentum of different biomimicry applications on the chemical and physical level, and we discuss some mind-blowing examples of how organisms leverage chemistry in their habitat. Connect with Andrew Meador on LinkedIn. Watch Andrew's TEDx talk on biomimicry and birds. Grab some Learning from Nature merch including shirts and sweatshirts. If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Gain the skills to apply 3.8 billion years of research and development to your business, projects, and daily life. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link. Thank you Pine Peak Productions for helping to evolve Learning from Nature to the next level! Support the show…

1
Special Episode: Nature Journaling with John Muir Laws 57:13

20 weeks fa57:13

57:13

Cultivating a curiosity for our world is the first step in repairing our relationship with place, the organisms that we share our planet with, and ourselves. This reconnecting is at the core of a crucial and life-changing practice called nature journaling. John Muir Laws is a leader and innovator in the world-wide nature journaling movement and shares his wealth of knowledge in a very special Learning from Nature episode. This conversation invites you to ponder the intricacies of everyday life and encourages you to begin recording and reflecting. Nature journaling is especially important for biomimicry: this practice can help to shift perspectives and offers new inspiration! "A world of infinite beauty and discovery waits just beyond the point where we usually stop paying attention" (John Muir Laws). Learn more about John Muir Laws , and purchase his books . Join the Wild Wonder Foundation nature journaling movement. Get a nature journaling for biomimicry book (iSites). Grab some Learning from Nature merch including shirts and sweatshirts. If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Gain the skills to apply 3.8 billion years of research and development to your business, projects, and daily life. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link. Thank you Pine Peak Productions for helping to evolve Learning from Nature to the next level! Support the show…

1
Behind the Scenes Biomimicry: Inside the Launchpad Program 33:02

26 weeks fa33:02

33:02

The Biomimicry Institute's Launchpad program supports scientists and designers who are addressing some of our biggest challenges with nature-inspired ideas. Every year, a cohort of innovators from around the world comes together to learn from each other and receive guidance and inspiration through mentoring, networking, and community-building. Dave Hutchins is the Launchpad Program Manager and dives into what it takes to get a biomimetic product to the next stage and the pathways that The Biomimicry Institute offers for folks who are in this space. Dave is an engineer, entrepreneur, creator, and educator who is passionate about expanding and deepening the biomimicry ecosystem. Whether you are pursuing a project or just want to peek behind the curtain, listen in for some motivation and a good dose of hope! Explore The Launchpad. Learn more about The Biomimicry Institute. Grab some Learning from Nature merch including shirts and sweatshirts. If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Gain the skills to apply 3.8 billion years of research and development to your business, projects, and daily life. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link. Thank you Pine Peak Productions for helping to evolve Learning from Nature to the next level! Support the show…

1
Behind the Scenes Biomimicry: Mycocycle is Transforming Waste with Fungi 43:49

30 weeks fa43:49

43:49

Humans view waste as a burden, but nature utilizes waste as a valuable resource in a cycle of continual renewal. The US Environmental Protection Agency estimates 600 million tons of construction and demolition debris is generated every year -- and Mycocycle knows this is an opportunity. Joanne Rodriguez discusses how Mycocycle leverages mycelium (fungal root structures) to consume and eliminate toxins from construction waste and produce raw building materials like MycoFILL, MycoFIBER, and MycoFOAM. Imagine a world where we can safely break down harmful materials, or eliminate the need for those materials in the first place. This impactful bio-inspired company is showing what's possible on the pathway to a truly regenerative future. Explore Mycocycle. Reach the TechCrunch article. Grab some Learning from Nature merch including shirts and sweatshirts. If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Gain the skills to apply 3.8 billion years of research and development to your business, projects, and daily life. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link. Thank you Pine Peak Productions for helping to evolve Learning from Nature to the next level! Support the show…

1
Behind the Scenes Biomimicry: ECOncrete is Creating Sustainable Marine Ecosystems 49:33

34 weeks fa49:33

49:33

Our coastlines are crucial buffer zones for climate chaos. Yet the current building strategies for concrete coastal marine construction can lead to low biodiversity, which impacts ecosystem health and water quality. ECOncrete's technology involves texture agents and molds that increase biological performance by creating a macro-surface that encourages organisms to colonize. This innovative company has implemented more than a dozen large-scale projects globally and is expanding rapidly as demand increases. By turning to nature for inspiration, we can adapt to the changing climate while also benefiting marine ecosystems globally. Explore ECOncrete Grab some Learning from Nature merch including shirts and sweatshirts. If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Gain the skills to apply 3.8 billion years of research and development to your business, projects, and daily life. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link. Thank you Pine Peak Productions for helping to evolve Learning from Nature to the next level! Support the show…

1
Behind the Scenes Biomimicry: GreenPod Labs is Reducing Food Waste 34:57

38 weeks fa34:57

34:57

Globally, more than 1.6 billion tonnes of food is wasted every year -- and in India, 40% of produce goes to waste before it even reaches grocery store shelves. By learning from plant protection mechanisms, Deepak Rajmohan of GreenPod Labs has developed a solution: using natural plant extracts to activate those built-in defenses. The simple yet effective solution is a satchel that can be dropped into produce transportation to slow down the ripening rate and limit microbial growth. All at ambient temperature with no toxic chemicals or extra plastic packaging. Listen in to hear how GreenPod Labs is making an impact in the market and on our planet. This episode will share a behind the scenes look into the biomimicry process and hopefully reveal that this practice is not only possible, but it's happening! Explore GreenPod Labs. Watch the innovation highlight video from World Economic Forum. Grab some Learning from Nature merch including shirts and sweatshirts. If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Gain the skills to apply 3.8 billion years of research and development to your business, projects, and daily life. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link. Thank you Pine Peak Productions for helping to evolve Learning from Nature to the next level! Support the show…

1
Behind the Scenes Biomimicry: Amphico is Revolutionizing the Textile Market 51:58

44 weeks fa51:58

51:58

The ideal adventure apparel is both waterproof and breathable. Yet the tragic irony for outdoor enthusiasts is how toxic and wasteful the current clothing and gear options there are on the market. That's where Amphico comes in: a UK-based biomimicry company learning from waterproofing strategies in nature to create options without harmful chemicals while also eliminating the excessive waste. Isabella MacKenzie, the Lead Color and Textile Designer at Amphico, discusses their novel material and how they are accomplishing functionality without compromising human or environmental health. This episode will share a behind the scenes look into the biomimicry process and hopefully reveal that this practice is not only possible, but it's happening! Explore Amphico and the new technology "Amphitex". Read an article by Isabella MacKenzie to learn more . Grab some Learning from Nature merch including shirts and sweatshirts. If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Gain the skills to apply 3.8 billion years of research and development to your business, projects, and daily life. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link. Thank you Pine Peak Productions for helping to evolve Learning from Nature to the next level! Support the show…

1
How Does Nature Cooperate? All About Lichens with Dr. Troy McMullin 51:00

49 weeks fa51:00

51:00

It's on every continent, and in every terrestrial ecosystem. It's beneath our feet on most hikes and it's often overlooked: lichens! In this episode, Dr. Troy McMullin, the chief lichenologist at the Canadian Museum of Nature, gives an insightful overview of what lichens are, describes their many interesting strategies, and shares why you should care. We dive into their unique symbiotic partnership, their range of amazing structures, and how they are an important part of our future here on Earth. Grab a jeweler's loupe, put on your adventure shoes, and immerse yourself in a tiny world of awe and wonder. Troy McMullin Biography Lichens: The Macrolichens of Ontario and the Great Lakes Region of the United States The Secret World of Lichens: A Young Naturalist's Guide Grab your Learning from Nature merch! Follow Lily on Instagram: @lilylearnsfromnature If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link. Thank you Pine Peak Productions for helping to evolve Learning from Nature to the next level! Support the show…

1
Knowledge Symbiosis with Roxanne Swentzell and Anne LaForti 1:01:55

1 year fa1:01:55

1:01:55

In the fourth episode of our limited series Knowledge Symbiosis: Can Biomimicry and Indigenous Science Harmonize?, Roxanne Swentzell and Anne LaForti engage in a conversation hosted by Sara El-Sayed, converging Indigenous ideologies and scientific understanding of soils, seeds, regenerative versus sustainable terminologies, and steps to healing ourselves and our ecosystems. This limited series is produced by The Cultural Conservancy's Native Seed Pod , Arizona State University, and Learning From Nature: The Biomimicry Podcast, with music and soundscapes by Colin Farish . Support the show…

1
Knowledge Symbiosis with PennElys Droz and Maibritt Pederson 1:05:37

1 year fa1:05:37

1:05:37

In the third episode of our limited series Knowledge Symbiosis: Can Biomimicry and Indigenous Science Harmonize?, PennElys Droz and Maibritt Pederson Zari engage in conversation hosted by Lily Urmann, exploring cosmologies, paradigm shifts and how to be in good relationship while we co-create and design as humans within creation. They outline principles of regenerative design in communities, and how we all might engage in decolonization as well as learn from Indigenous ecological relationships. This limited series is produced by The Cultural Conservancy's Native Seed Pod , Arizona State University, and Learning From Nature: The Biomimicry Podcast, with music and soundscapes by Colin Farish . Support the show…

1
Knowledge Symbiosis with Dayna Baumeister and Melissa K Nelson Part 2 1:00:07

1 year fa1:00:07

1:00:07

In this second episode of the limited series Knowledge Symbiosis: Can Biomimicry and Indigenous Science Harmonize?, Dayna Baumeister and Melissa K Nelson continue their conversation, hosted by Sara El-Sayed, exploring the common ground and mapping the divergences between Indigenous science and biomimicry. They dive into the nature of biomimicry and Indigenous knowledges and how they are often misconstrued by non-practitioners; potential ethical limits to seeking knowledge; and an ethical space of engagement for biomimicry practitioners and Indigenous knowledge-holders. This limited series is produced by The Cultural Conservancy's Native Seed Pod , Arizona State University, and Learning From Nature: The Biomimicry Podcast, with music and soundscapes by Colin Farish . Support the show…

1
Knowledge Symbiosis with Dayna Baumeister and Melissa K Nelson Part 1 56:45

1 year fa56:45

56:45

In this inaugural episode of the limited series Knowledge Symbiosis: Can Biomimicry and Indigenous Science Harmonize?, Dayna Baumeister joins Melissa K. Nelson and Sara El-Sayed in a conversation exploring the common ground and mapping the divergences between Indigenous science and biomimicry. SERIES SYNOPSIS Biomimicry, nature-inspired design, and Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), or Indigenous Knowledge Systems, both have roots in nature and a deep respect for natural processes. However, the two fields have different worldviews: biomimicry is oriented from a Western science perspective, while TEK emerges from Indigenous, spiritual, and cosmological worldviews. With a common source of inspiration, professionals in both fields recognize the potential for collaboration, yet no formal efforts or conversations in this realm have been published for a wide audience. This podcast series, Knowledge Symbiosis: Can Biomimicry and Indigenous Science Harmonize? invites dialogue from both perspectives—practitioners in biomimicry, and elders, practitioners, and Indigenous scholars—so we might better understand each other and explore opportunities to weave these learnings. Five episodes will be available on The Native Seed Pod and Learning From Nature:The Biomimicry Podcast for listeners to tune in and reflect. The episodes are hosted in rotation by Dr. Melissa Nelson, Dr. Sara El-Sayed, and Lily Urmann, and feature conversations between Kim Tall Bear, Janine Benyus, Dayna Baumeister, PennElys Droz, Maibritt Pederson, Anne LaForti, and Roxanne Swentzell. These conversations delve into the ethics of science, human-nature connection, regenerative design, and our relationship to all other kin on this planet. This limited series is produced by The Cultural Conservancy's Native Seed Pod , Arizona State University, and Learning From Nature: The Biomimicry Podcast, with music and soundscapes by Colin Farish . Support the show…

1
Multi-functionality of Mucus and the Microbiome with Erin Miller 49:48

2 years fa49:48

49:48

A fun fact for your next party conversation: humans have over 30 trillion cells in our bodies, and 70-90% of those cells are bacterial and fungal! Look no further than exploring the microbiomes of biology when you need your next existential crisis -- or next rabbit hole of fascination to dive into. While mucus and the microbiome might not be the classic poster-child of biomimicry, there is so much we can learn from these elegant, strange, and efficient strategies. Erin Miller discusses the power of a beginner mindset, companies leading the way in developing applications, and curiosity-driven learning. Grab your Learning from Nature merch! Follow Lily on Instagram: @lilylearnsfromnature If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link. Support the show…

1
Green Chemistry: The Beauty of Nature's Processes with Dr. John Warner 55:22

2 years fa55:22

55:22

Many of us are either afraid of or avoid chemistry simply because of the way we were taught the topic in school. Yet chemistry is all around us: in the leaves of your backyard tree and the snail inching along the sidewalk. It's also a crucial component to the practice of biomimicry. In this episode, explore the topic of green chemistry with one of its founding members: Dr. John Warner. Nature runs on sunlight, breaks down products into benign constituents, builds selectively with a small subset of elements, and does chemistry in water. It's beautiful and elegant. Yet most of the chemicals we use to make our products, create our designs, and even add to the food we eat are toxic for the planet and our bodies. We have a lot to learn from nature's time-tested and life-friendly chemistry! Grab your Learning from Nature merch! Follow Lily on Instagram: @lilylearnsfromnature If you want to begin your own learning from nature journey, take a course from Learn Biomimicry. Listeners can save 20% on the Biomimicry Short Course Set, and 10% on the Biomimicry Practitioner and Educator Program with code LEARNINGFROMNATURE or by visiting this link. Support the show…

1
Mushroom Magic: How Does Nature Modify Light/Color? With Ximena Curiel 52:54

2 years fa52:54