Jackson Yip is an atmospheric researcher by training who specializes in cloud-microphysics as well as a deeply passionate climber and alpinist who has coupled his interests in a myriad of ways.
What are the things in your life that have infinite complexity upon closer inspection?
I’m betting you didn’t expect that question on a podcast about ice climbing.
But that’s Jackson Yip for ya. An atmospheric researcher by training who specializes in cloud-microphysics, Jackson is also a deeply passionate climber and alpinist who has coupled his interests in a myriad of ways.
Whether scrabbling through murky datasets or slogging to break trail, Jackson finds beauty in the mundane and labyrinthine.
In this wide-ranging conversation, we talk about:
Hope you enjoy this chat, I certainly did.
Timestamps:
01:41 - The concept of heat death and its implications
04:00 - Having perspective
05:37 - The complexity of cloud micro-physics
09:15 - Observing and first-hand experience
11:30 - Engineering challenges in climate research
17:58 - Predicting ice formations
20:20 - The tragic consequences of misreading ice conditions
23:10 - Mechanics of slip-out pillar collapse
28:31 - The importance of patience in climbing and life
35:38 - Accessible doesn't mean easy or safe
41:13 - The seasons of life
42:43 - Supporting socioeconomic equality
Resources and links:
If you’re interested in collaborating on one of the ice climbing models that Jackson mentioned, you can reach him at jackson.yip@utah.edu. To connect with him on Instagram, he’s @jp_yip. You can learn more about his research on his website: jpyip.com
Find the rest of the notes, timestamps, resources, and more on the episode page.
Credits:
Episode cover photo provided by Jackson Yip
Intro music by Hannah Noelle Enomoto (thanks, sis!).
Patreon:
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