29 lug 2025
Lava Academy Podcast by Lava Show welcomes geology star Shawn Willsey
The latest episode of the Lava Academy Podcast, by Lava Show, is out now, and it features none other than Professor Shawn Willsey — geologist, educator, author, and the brain behind the wildly popular YouTube channel Geology Explained.
Whether you're a die-hard volcano buff or just lava-curious, this is an episode you cannot miss.
Why this episode is a must-Listen
In this unmissable interview, Shawn joins Lava Show's own Iain MacKinnon (our resident Lava Master) and Jón Heiðar Ragnheiðarson (aka “Volcano Man”) for an illuminating journey through Iceland’s volcanic heart — from the historic eruptions of the past to the ground-shaking action unfolding right now on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
But this isn’t just another geology lecture. With wit, warmth, and plenty of "wow" moments, Shawn dives into:
What drew him back to Iceland again and again since his first visit in 2015
How magma moves underground and why recent eruptions are rewriting the textbooks
What makes the Reykjanes Peninsula the most exciting place in the geological world today
The deeper meaning of standing before an eruption — a moment he compares to going back in time
And yes — his review of Lava Show itself (spoiler: 🔥🔥🔥)
Meet the guest: Shawn Willsey
If you love volcanoes, chances are you’ve already stumbled across Shawn’s work. A geology professor at the College of Southern Idaho, he’s gained global recognition for turning complex earth science into accessible, awe-inspiring content.
🔗 willseygeology.com
🎥 YouTube: Geology Explained
Shawn’s passion for Iceland is infectious — and his ability to explain the forces shaping our land makes him one of the most compelling voices in science communication today.
Eruptions, earthquakes, and... nuns in slippers?
Yes, this episode has everything: protective berms, being built overnight, GPS sensors predicting eruptions, festival-like volcano hikes, and even a volcano-themed Woodstock moment with nuns, guitars, and COVID ropes.
Image mentioned in the podcast: Graph showing earthquake swarm from eruption in the Reykjanes peninsula on the 12th of November 2023

Listen, subscribe & join the Lava Academy
Lava Academy isn’t just for geologists — it’s for the endlessly curious. Whether you’re planning a trip to Iceland, following the Reykjanes eruptions, or just love hearing from people who really know their rocks, this podcast is for you.
🎧 Listen to the episode on LavaShow.com
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📩 Got thoughts? Email us at podcast@lavashow.com
And don’t forget to subscribe — new episodes drop monthly, and the next one might just blow your mind.