In this episode of the Lava Academy Podcast, host Iain MacKinnon sits down with Júlíus Ingi Jónsson, Mr. Lava Lava, the founder of Lava Show.

Júlíus shares the incredible story behind the creation of the world’s only live lava show, where real molten lava is superheated and poured safely in front of a live audience.

From childhood summers on a farm near Vík and family stories about the 1918 Katla eruption, to witnessing spectacular eruptions first hand and turning a wild idea into a global attraction, this episode explores the inspiration, risks, and determination behind Lava Show.

You’ll hear how a moment standing in front of cascading lava during the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption sparked an idea that would eventually grow into an award-winning Icelandic experience visited by hundreds of thousands of people.

Júlíus also talks about entrepreneurship, Iceland’s deep connection to volcanoes, and why storytelling is such an important part of sharing geology with the world.

Whether you’re fascinated by volcanoes, curious about Iceland’s volcanic landscape, or interested in the story behind Lava Show, this episode offers a fascinating look at the passion and perseverance behind one of Iceland’s most unique experiences.

In This Episode

• The childhood story that sparked Júlíus’ fascination with volcanoes • Surviving Katla: a family story from the 1918 eruption • Witnessing Icelandic eruptions up close • The moment that inspired the idea for Lava Show • Turning a bold concept into a real attraction • Why volcanoes are central to Iceland’s identity

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