Episode Highlights:

• The surprising reason scientists should let filmmakers into their labs

• What it's really like filming science in Antarctica and at deep-sea volcanoes

• The hidden challenge of running a grant-funded research lab

Timestamps:

0:44 - What is a Science Filmmaker and Food Systems Researcher?

4:45 - What does a typical day look like?

13:56 - What do you enjoy?

25:43 - What do you dislike?

32:33 - How does your career compare to your initial aspirations?

33:42 - What were your career milestones?

41:18 - What advice would you give an aspiring professional?

About Our Guest:

Dena Seidel is an interdisciplinary social scientist and Emmy Award winning science filmmaker who combines Anthropology, science storytelling and ethnographic documentary filmmaking as part of science communication, STEM learning and food systems research. Seidel is the director/producer of several original long form documentaries featuring Rutgers scientists on journeys of discovery. She is the Founding Director of the Rutgers Center for Digital Filmmaking during which time she designed Rutgers BFA in Digital Filmmaking and she also served as the Director of Digital Storytelling in the Rutgers English Department. Seidel has a Masters Degree in Anthropology with years of experience learning from Pacific indigenous cultures. Seidel has spent years working in Micronesian island nations with cultural leaders supporting community led sustainable development projects. She has developed innovative International and university programs combining anthropology, filmmaking/storytelling and sustainable development including traditionally based food systems and interdisciplinary education. Seidel designed the impactful Science-in-Action Storytelling™ model and oversees Rutgers Immersive Learning through Science Storytelling Research Lab found that was recognized by a 2025 New Jersey State Senate Resolution for increasing public trust in science.

• Connect with Dena on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dena-seidel-4859b645/

• Recommended Resources From Dena:

• • storytellinglab.rutgers.edu

• Extended Interview: ⁠patreon.com/diverseroutes

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