Welcome to
Conversations about Communication
Hosted by Zachary Carr
Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of communication. From the science of human interaction to the latest innovations in media and technology. Each episode features thought-provoking conversations with renowned scholars, industry professionals, and UB students who bring fresh perspectives and real-world insights.
Whether you're a current or prospective student, a communication enthusiast, or a working professional, this podcast offers something for everyone interested in how communication shapes our world.
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Episode 17: The Chair Returns!
A conversation with Melanie Green, Ph.D.
Dr. Melanie C. Green, chair of the Department of Communication at the University at Buffalo, returns to "Conversations About Communication" for another captivating discussion. This time diving deeper into the power of stories to shape our thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors.
A leading voice in narrative persuasion, Dr. Green shares her groundbreaking work on the theory of "transportation into a narrative world"—a concept that explains how immersive storytelling can influence real-world attitudes. From health communication to social advocacy, she explores how fictional stories and digital narratives impact our perceptions, decisions, and even our relationships.
In this episode, you’ll also hear about her research on social media and its evolving role in shaping interpersonal communication, along with reflections on leadership in academia and the value of communication in a rapidly changing world.
Dr. Green is a Fellow of the International Communication Association and the Society for Personality and Social Psychology. Her work has earned prestigious honors including the Innovation in Theory award and funding from the National Science Foundation, NIH, and the Spencer Foundation.
Episode 16: The Stories We Tell
A conversation with Art Raney, PhD
Art Raney, a professor in the Department of Communication at UB, dives into the psychology of media enjoyment and appreciation. Discover how moral emotions and self-transcendent media experiences shape our well-being. Learn more about his groundbreaking book, "Introduction to Positive Media Psychology," and his extensive research.
Episode 15: Communication Across Campus
A conversation with Anne Mecca
Anne Mecca, Assistant Director of Admissions and Student Services, shares her insights into fostering a vibrant campus community. From organizing commencement to spearheading UB’s creative video series, “Wingin’ It,” Anne reflects on the power of communication to build connections.
Episode 14: Connecting, Caring, Communicating
A conversation with Bonnie Nickels, PhD
Bonnie Nickels discusses how interpersonal and health communication can transform relationships and navigate life’s challenges. From teaching to researching end-of-life conversations, her work highlights the importance of communication in fostering support and connection.
Episode 13: Understanding Truth and Media
A conversation with Yotam Ophir, PhD
Explore the impact of misinformation, conspiracy theories, and media effects with Dr. Ophir, an award-winning scholar and head of UB’s MEME lab. Gain insights into his work on political and science communication and his upcoming book, "Misinformation & Society."
Episode 12: From the Student Perspective
A conversation with Dominick Matarese
Dominick, a communication major and "Outstanding Senior" award-winning student, shares his journey at UB, including his research experience and leadership roles. Hear his thoughts on navigating college and preparing for a career in communication.
Episode 11: Relationships Are Everything
A conversation with David Lee, PhD
David Lee, Assistant Professor at UB’s Department of Communication, explores the power of everyday social interactions. Learn how relationships impact mental and physical health, and discover how communication supports self-regulation and social connection across various contexts.
Episode 10: A View from the Other Side
A conversation with Ray Chan
Meet Raymond Chan, a communication major and Dean’s List regular, as he reflects on his UB journey. From studying abroad in South Korea and Japan to his plans for graduate school, Ray shares his passion for learning, traveling, and volleyball—and his contagious positivity.
Episode 9: Risky Business
A conversation with Janet Yang, PhD
Janet Yang, a leading expert in risk communication, discusses how perceptions of risk influence our decisions about health and the environment. From climate change to vaccination, her research delves into the ways we seek, share, and process critical information.
Episode 8: Innovation, the Buffalo Bills, and Lessons on What Not to Say
A conversation with Matt Parrino
Matt Parrino, Buffalo Bills beat reporter and co-host of the award-winning "SHOUT!" Podcast, shares his experiences covering one of the NFL’s most storied teams. Hear how his background as a journalist and adjunct instructor at UB shaped his approach to storytelling.
Episode 7: Entertainment, Education & Engagement
A conversation with Hua (Helen) Wang, PhD
Helen Wang discusses her innovative research on storytelling as a tool for social change. From web series to interactive games, she reveals how communication strategies can engage diverse audiences to address issues like gender equality and public health.
Episode 6: Friendship, Grit, and Curiosity
A conversation with Zach Glowacki
Doctoral student Zach Glowacki shares his research into nonverbal communication, microexpressions, and the subtle ways we connect with others. Discover how curiosity drives his exploration of emotions and social interactions.
Episode 5: Big Questions, Big Data
A conversation with Yini Zhang, PhD
Dive into the complexities of social media and political communication with Yini Zhang, a cutting-edge researcher in computational methods and big data. Explore her work on how people express themselves online, how social media platforms interact as ecosystems, and the ripple effects of communication across digital landscapes. Zhang’s collaborative approach pushes the boundaries of communication research.
Episode 4: Teaching Talk
A conversation with McKenzie Vorpahl, PhD
McKenzie Vorpahl brings her expertise in interpersonal and health communication to the forefront, highlighting how communication shapes our everyday lives. From patient-provider interactions to persuasive principles, Vorpahl’s work fosters awareness, self-reflection, and practical communication skills for navigating sensitive and impactful conversations.
Episode 3: Social Influence, Why Teaching Matters, and an Academic Appreciation for Music
A conversation with Thomas Hugh Feeley, PhD
Join Thomas Feeley, a prolific researcher and author, as he discusses compliance-gaining strategies in health and organizational contexts. Learn how his passion for teaching intersects with his research, and enjoy his reflections on the role of music in academia.
Episode 2:
Mass media, change and the pull of morality: A conversation with Lindsay Hahn, PhD
Explore the moral and cognitive impacts of mass media with Lindsay Hahn. Her work delves into how media shapes our conscience and behaviors, offering insights into its influence on audiences ranging from adolescents to adults.
Episode 1: The Chair Has the Floor
A conversation with Melanie Green, PhD
In the inaugural episode, Department Chair Melanie Green discusses the value of a communication degree and the importance of studying communication science. Gain a deeper understanding of her research on the power of storytelling and its role in shaping human behavior.
- Expert Insights: Learn from world-renowned scholars and seasoned professionals.
- Student Stories: Hear firsthand experiences from UB’s exceptional students.
- Practical Takeaways: Discover how communication influences every aspect of life.
Have thoughts, questions, or ideas for future episodes? We’d love to hear from you! Contact Zachary Carr at zmcarr@buffalo.edu.
Stay curious. Stay connected. Start the conversation with Conversations About Communication.