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The Discovery Files

The Discovery Files

Written by: Scott Briscoe and Ahmad Saleem
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What really makes a discovery?

This isn’t another podcast about the next big deposit or the person who “called it.” This is a journey into the human side of discovery—the stories behind the core sheds, drill pads, and field maps. We talk to the people who make exploration work: core loggers, drillers, project geologists, senior geos, and everyone in between.

Through honest, unfiltered conversations, we explore the emotions, lessons, failures, team dynamics, and quiet wins that rarely make it into the headlines. We ask: what does a truly successful exploration team look like? How much of discovery is science, and how much is intuition, collaboration, or even chaos?

If you’ve ever wondered whether our industry really understands what drives discovery—or if we’re missing the bigger picture—this podcast is for you.

Real people. Real stories. Real discovery.

Scott Briscoe and Ahmad Saleem 2025
Earth Sciences Nature & Ecology Science
Episodes
  • #18: Andover #2 Eleanore Dowling
    Dec 15 2025

    In this episode, Eleanore Dowling shares her journey in geology, from her early experiences in data entry to her current role in lithium exploration with the Andover discovery. She emphasizes the importance of networking, the challenges of transitioning from academic knowledge to fieldwork, and the excitement of discovering new geological systems. Eleanore discusses the significance of teamwork, the impact of diverse backgrounds on exploration, and the lessons learned throughout her career. She concludes with advice for new geologists, encouraging them to seek knowledge and expand their horizons.

    The video interview is available at https://youtu.be/jCOsN0P0RJo

    00:00Introduction to Eleanor Dowling and Her Journey

    05:09Transitioning from Data Entry to Field Work

    10:41Discovering Lithium: The Andover Project

    16:07The Challenges of Atypical Geological Systems

    23:03The Business Side of Exploration: Risks and Rewards

    25:13Navigating Challenges in Geology

    27:31The Excitement of Discovery

    30:52Adapting to New Environments

    33:01Integrating Knowledge Across Disciplines

    35:52The Learning Curve in Geology

    38:33Reflections on Early Career Experiences

    41:06The Importance of Team Dynamics

    43:47Lessons from Exploration Geology

    46:27The Joy of Fieldwork and Discovery

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    55 mins
  • #17 Cove-McCoy Helen Zone #3 Rick Streiff
    Oct 22 2025

    In this episode, Scott Briscoe interviews Rick Streiff, who shares his experiences in the mining industry, particularly focusing on the Cove deposit and the challenges of downhole contamination. Rick discusses the complexities of geological mapping, the unique characteristics of the Cove deposit, and the importance of understanding contamination issues in drilling. He also emphasizes the significance of networking, documentation, and being open-minded in geological exploration.

    00:00 Introduction to Cove and McCoy Mining Experience

    02:06 Challenges of Downhole Contamination

    04:44 Geological Insights from Cove

    07:14 The Unique Nature of Cove Deposit

    09:33 Discoveries and Drilling Strategies

    12:04 Reflections on Mining History and Market Conditions

    14:39 Zoning and Geological Relationships

    17:07 The Importance of Field Skills

    20:00 Lessons Learned and Advice for Young Geologists

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    30 mins
  • #16 Midas #2 Rick Streiff
    Oct 13 2025

    In this episode, Scott Briscoe interviews Rick Streiff about his experiences at the Midas deposit in Nevada. They discuss the challenges faced during early drilling, the importance of structural geology, and the discoveries made in the southern half of Midas. Rick shares insights on the role of mine geologists, the significance of sampling, and the lessons learned from past mistakes. The conversation highlights the often-overlooked contributions of mine geologists and the key learnings that shaped Rick's career in exploration and mining.

    00:00Introduction to Midas and Early Discoveries

    02:17Geological Insights and Mapping Techniques

    04:52Drilling Strategies and Discoveries

    07:37Challenges in Exploration and Mining

    10:16The Role of Mine Geologists

    12:41Lessons Learned from Midas

    15:02Conclusion and Reflections on Experience

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    24 mins
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