
In this conversation, Storm Chaser, Engineer and Educator Seth Price discusses his experience with storm chasing and his involvement in a high school storm chasing program. He shares the impact of storm chasing on high school students and the challenges of coordinating trips. Seth also talks about his choice of vehicle for storm chasing and the use of ham radio in communication. He reflects on the changes in storm chasing technology over the years. This conversation covers the importance of storm chasing tools, the upside and downside of storm chasing tools, the experience of storm chasing, early interest in weather and storm chasing, childhood fascination with storms, choosing a career path, personal setbacks and motivation, chasing in different regions, challenges of chasing in wooded areas, memorable chasing experiences, personal setbacks and pursuing storm chasing, challenges in the field of meteorology, and teaching and inspiring students. In this conversation, Seth Price shares his experiences as a storm chaser and the impact it has had on his personal growth. He discusses the educational opportunities he provides to students through field trips and the importance of exposing them to real-life experiences. Seth also reflects on how storm chasing has changed his perspective on fear of missing out and the concept of success. He emphasizes the value of embracing the journey and finding joy in the process rather than focusing solely on the end result. Seth also addresses imposter syndrome and the importance of celebrating personal accomplishments. He concludes by discussing his bucket list and the continuous learning that comes with storm chasing.TakeawaysStorm chasing can have a profound impact on high school students, exposing them to new experiences and broadening their horizons.Choosing the right vehicle for storm chasing is important, considering factors such as trunk space, power supply, and durability.Ham radio can be a valuable tool for communication during storm chasing, allowing for local and long-distance communication.Advancements in technology have greatly enhanced the capabilities of storm chasers, providing real-time radar and satellite data. Storm chasing tools have become essential for making informed decisions and staying safe during storm chasing.While storm chasing tools provide valuable information, it is important to understand their limitations and not rely solely on technology.The experience of storm chasing is a combination of knowledge, intuition, and learning from past experiences.Early interest in weather and storms can shape a person's passion for storm chasing.Personal setbacks can sometimes lead to new opportunities and a change in career path.Chasing storms in different regions presents unique challenges and considerations.Chasing storms in wooded areas can be particularly challenging due to limited visibility and road networks.Memorable chasing experiences include witnessing significant tornadoes and experiencing successful chase days.Personal setbacks can sometimes hinder the pursuit of storm chasing, but resilience and adaptability are key.The field of meteorology can be competitive, and job opportunities may require perseverance and flexibility.Teaching and inspiring students about storm chasing can broaden their horizons and expose them to new experiences. Field trips and real-life experiences can provide valuable educational opportunities for students.Storm chasing can lead to personal growth and a shift in perspective.Embracing the journey and finding joy in the process is more important than focusing solely on the end result.Imposter syndrome can be overcome by recognizing and celebrating personal accomplishments.Continuous learning and exploration are key components of storm chasing.
Apr 3, 2024
1 hr

SummaryIn this podcast episode, Lori Grace Bailey discusses her experience with lightning capturing devices for photographers. She talks about the frustration of trying to capture lightning with DSLR or mirrorless cameras and shares her verdict on three devices: the Lightning Trigger LT4, the Lightning Bug Plus from MK Controls, and the MIOPS Lightning Trigger. She praises the Lightning Bug Plus for its reliability and success rate in capturing daytime lightning shots. She also mentions the responsiveness of the MK Controls company. Overall, she recommends the Lightning Bug Plus as the top choice for lightning capturing.TakeawaysCapturing lightning with DSLR or mirrorless cameras can be frustrating without the right devices.The Lightning Bug Plus from MK Controls is highly recommended for its reliability and success rate in capturing daytime lightning shots.The Lightning Trigger LT4 is also a good option, but it has some drawbacks such as easily broken hot shoe connectors.The MIOPS Lightning Trigger is another device to consider, but it may have a lower success rate compared to the other two.It's important to communicate with the device manufacturers if you're experiencing issues to see if they can help resolve them.Using intervalometer mode and longer shutter speeds can be effective for capturing lightning during the evening or sunset hours.ND filters can be used to capture lightning during the daytime, but it's not recommended to use very dark filters.Lori Grace Bailey is passionate about capturing lightning and encourages others to pursue their interests in extreme weather and sports.Sound BitesChapters00:00Introduction and Storm Season01:00Frustrations of Capturing Lightning06:04The Real Lightning Trigger11:40Review of Lightning Bug Plus16:44Miops22:22Review of Strike Finder Two25:00MK Controls Lightning Bug Plus as the Top Choice28:03Using Lightning Capturing Devices during the Daytime29:58Conclusion and Invitation
Mar 31, 2024
28 min

In this conversation, Christopher Wicklund discusses his experience with storm chasing and his passion for photographing auroras. He shares the story of getting a new computer and the issues he faced with his old one. Christopher also talks about his first high-risk storm chasing experience and the adrenaline rush that comes with it. He highlights the importance of personal connections and storytelling in his podcast. Overall, the conversation explores Christopher's journey as a meteorologist and photographer, and his love for capturing the beauty and power of nature. In this conversation, Chris W discusses his mental preparation for storm chasing, the challenges and setbacks he has faced, and the role of perseverance in his pursuit of extreme weather. He shares his favorite locations to chase and talks about upcoming projects and adventures. The conversation highlights the importance of mental resilience, learning from failures, and finding inspiration to keep going.TakeawaysStorm chasing can be an exhilarating and unpredictable experience, with each chase offering unique and memorable moments.Auroras are a captivating natural phenomenon that can be seen and photographed in certain locations, and they have become a niche interest for many photographers and weather enthusiasts.The pursuit of a career in meteorology requires a strong passion for weather and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt to new technologies and research.Personal connections and storytelling are essential in creating engaging and meaningful content, whether it's through a podcast or other forms of media. Mental preparation is crucial for storm chasing, as it involves managing emotions and keeping a clear head in potentially dangerous situations.Challenges and setbacks are inevitable in any pursuit, but they can be overcome through perseverance, learning from failures, and maintaining a growth mindset.Favorite locations for storm chasing vary among individuals, but South Dakota is often praised for its scenic landscapes and potential for capturing stunning storm footage.Continued learning and staying open to new experiences are key to personal and professional growth in storm chasing and other endeavors.
Mar 15, 2024
49 min

n this conversation, storm chaser Hunter Fowkes shares his journey and passion for storm chasing. He discusses his early fascination with weather, particularly dust storms and monsoons in Arizona. Hunter explains how his love for storms grew and eventually led him to become a storm chaser. He also opens up about the challenges of constantly moving and maintaining friendships, and how storm chasing became a source of purpose and stability in his life. Hunter also discusses the emotional impact of storm chasing and the responsibility he feels to help others in severe weather situations. In this part of the conversation, Hunter Fowkes discusses the role of faith and family in grounding him and shaping his values. He emphasizes the importance of blending science and religion to find purpose and make a positive impact on the world. Hunter also shares his most exhilarating moment of storm chasing, where he witnessed a massive tornado up close. He talks about upcoming projects and his excitement for life after graduation. Lastly, he highlights the support he receives from his partner, Lucia, and the ways they navigate his dangerous passion together. In this conversation, Hunter Fowkes shares his experiences and insights as a storm chaser. He discusses his passion for storm chasing, the different approaches to chasing storms, and his favorite weather phenomenon. Hunter also emphasizes the importance of appreciating loved ones and the feeling of relief when conquering a challenge. The conversation concludes with a discussion on sunrise vs sunset and Hunter's top item on his bucket list.TakeawaysEarly experiences with dust storms and monsoons in Arizona sparked Hunter's fascination with weather.Moving frequently as a child made it challenging for Hunter to maintain friendships, but storm chasing became a constant source of purpose and stability in his life.Hunter emphasizes the importance of pursuing what brings you joy and not letting others' opinions deter you.Storm chasing can have an emotional impact, and storm chasers often grapple with the responsibility of helping others in severe weather situations. Appreciate and cherish your loved ones.There are different approaches to storm chasing, and each person has their own preferences.Conquering a challenge brings a feeling of relief and satisfaction.Sunrise and sunset offer different experiences and beauty.Hunter Fowkes is a storm chaser and soon to be a meteorologist. He currently lives in Ames, Iowa finishing his Bachelor's degree in Meteorology from Iowa State University in 2024. He is married to his wife, Lucia Fowkes, and have been married for 5 years in September. He has lived across much of the western/central US including Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Nevada, Idaho, and Iowa. His greatest passion stemmed from watching dust storms and monsoons in Arizona. This led to a hobby of chasing storms which began in 2009 where, with his family, he saw his first tornado, a EF-1 tornado in northeast Iowa. 15 storm seasons have passed and he has chased well over 100 tornadoes and hundreds of other storms. He had the opportunity to run a couple successful private chase tours over the 2022 and 2023 seasons. His interests expanded towards chasing a hurricane for the first time in 2020 (Hurricane Delta) and is looking to chase storms for the rest of his life. He enjoys photographing not only storms and tornadoes but also capturing the northern lights for 2 years across mid-latitudes in the US. He enjoys spending time outside and going on adventure whether it be mountain biking, hiking, skiing, etc. In his time not spent in college or storm chasing, he is involved in his church, and involved in the local AMS (American Meteorological Society) and Center Iowa NWA chapters.
Feb 23, 2024
1 hr 13 min
