Conversations about Communication

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.