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The Fermilab Physicist Saving the World's Oceans in His Free Time
Episode 67 • 23rd July 2026 • Area Code: Batavia • Area Code Audio
00:00:00 00:58:16

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Arden Warner is an accelerator physicist and a self-described "simpleton." His uniquely straightforward way of looking at the world has made him uniquely equipped to solve some of the world's biggest problems.

When Arden saw coverage of a devastating oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico back in 2010, he had an idea: what if we could remove oil from the ocean using magnets? It turns out, not only did his idea work, but it turned out to be a revolutionary approach to cleaning up oil spills.

On this episode, I talk to Arden about the life-long journey that lead him to being on the verge of solving one of earth's most significant problems, and how working and hanging out in Batavia keeps him feeling grounded and connected to community.

PLUS: Richard and Alexa talk smoke, bees, blood rivers, gambling, movies, and cocktails. Vices and plagues!!

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  • Free access to quarterly live shows.
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  • Regular opportunities to meet up in person with fellow Batavians who share your passion for our town and want to build stronger bonds.

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Area Code: Batavia is produced by Area Code Audio. It's hosted and produced by Richard Clark. Our associate producer and co-host is Alexa Swidenbank. Edited and mixed by Matt Linder. Additional production help from Jennifer Clark.

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