WIB-San Francisco Bay Area: The Art of Scientific Storytelling With Lessons from the Front Lines

Our February 26 event brought together panelists from the field of scientific communication to discuss how to share science clearly and responsibly. The panel featured Rachel Henderson, Aparna Shetty, and Gwendolyn Wu, and was moderated by Holly Zoog, with about 45 WIB members and guests in attendance. The conversation highlighted that credible science communication—no matter the setting—means presenting the facts while also providing context, including what remains unknown. Panelists emphasized the importance of understanding your audience and simplifying complex ideas when needed—sometimes to the level your grandmother could understand—while keeping a clear one- or two-sentence elevator pitch ready, focused on big-picture so-what. They also discussed how new formats, like short podcasts or interactive data presentations, can help engage busy audiences, even if TikTok wasn’t quite on their list yet. An engaging audience Q&A touched on clickbait headlines and the spread of misinformation online, with panelists agreeing that clear, accurate communication remains the best antidote. Thanks to our panelists and attendees for the thoughtful discussion, and to The Landing for hosting the event.

Submitted by Astrid Heim