The Discovery Files
Podcast Description
What really makes a discovery?This isn’t another podcast about the next big deposit or the person who “called it.” This is a journey into the human side of discovery—the stories behind the core sheds, drill pads, and field maps. We talk to the people who make exploration work: core loggers, drillers, project geologists, senior geos, and everyone in between.Through honest, unfiltered conversations, we explore the emotions, lessons, failures, team dynamics, and quiet wins that rarely make it into the headlines. We ask: what does a truly successful exploration team look like? How much of discovery is science, and how much is intuition, collaboration, or even chaos?If you’ve ever wondered whether our industry really understands what drives discovery—or if we’re missing the bigger picture—this podcast is for you.Real people. Real stories. Real discovery.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
Explores themes of teamwork, the nuances of geological exploration, and the unpredictable nature of discovery, with episodes featuring discussions on the human aspects behind exploration challenges, learning from failures, and the balance between luck and skill, such as Ayesha Ahmed's experiences in the St. Ives Gold Camp and the examination of team dynamics.
What really makes a discovery?
This isn’t another podcast about the next big deposit or the person who “called it.” This is a journey into the human side of discovery—the stories behind the core sheds, drill pads, and field maps. We talk to the people who make exploration work: core loggers, drillers, project geologists, senior geos, and everyone in between.
Through honest, unfiltered conversations, we explore the emotions, lessons, failures, team dynamics, and quiet wins that rarely make it into the headlines. We ask: what does a truly successful exploration team look like? How much of discovery is science, and how much is intuition, collaboration, or even chaos?
If you’ve ever wondered whether our industry really understands what drives discovery—or if we’re missing the bigger picture—this podcast is for you.
Real people. Real stories. Real discovery.
In this episode of Discovery Files, Scott Briscoe interviews John Marma, a geologist with a rich family history in mining. John shares his journey into geology, his experiences at the Midas deposits, and the transition from production to exploration. He discusses the importance of team dynamics, exploration strategies, and the lessons learned throughout his career. John emphasizes the significance of perseverance, curiosity, and the value of time in geological exploration, while also encouraging young geologists to engage with experienced professionals in the field.
00:00Introduction to John Marma and Midas Deposits
05:01John Marma’s Journey into Geology
11:02Transitioning to Midas and Exploration Challenges
15:49Discovering New Veins at Midas
20:06The Importance of Exploration and Credibility
24:15Challenges in Drilling Techniques
26:24Understanding Vein Structures and Mineralization
28:21Exploration Strategies and Basin Architecture
30:17Team Dynamics in Geological Exploration
34:50Lessons from Historical Constraints in Geology
40:43Personal Reflections on Success and Passion in Geology
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