VerySpatial Podcast Showcases Fairmont State’s Academic Excellence on a Global Stage

A VerySpatial Podcast, co-hosted by Fairmont State University faculty members Dr. Barbara MacLennan and Frank LaFone, GISP along with geographers Dr. Jesse Rouse and Dr. Sue Bergeron at Coastal Caroline University, has been recognized by FeedSpot as one of the Top 15 Geography Podcasts on the web. In addition, the podcast’s companion blog was ranked among the Top 100 GIS Blogs worldwide. 

“Placing among the Top 15 Geography Podcasts is an honor, but perhaps the greatest honor is knowing that geography and geospatial podcasting has grown to have a Top 15 or Top 100 list,” said MacLennan. “Working on a podcast, blog, or any creative project with a group who are as passionate as you are about a topic brings that passion to all facets of your professional life.”  

Launched in 2005, VerySpatial is an internationally recognized, award-winning podcast that explores the intersection of geography, geospatial technologies, and everyday life. The weekly program offers geography enthusiasts and educators timely discussions that connect academic insights with current events and digital trends. 

“As a leader and professional in the geography field for over 20 years, it’s an honor to be on the list but it’s more exciting to know that people are getting exposed to the importance of geography and GIS in our modern world,” said LaFone. 

Over its nearly two-decade run, VerySpatial has become a trusted resource in the geography community. It has consistently ranked in the top five percent of K–12 educational podcasts on iTunes and has been commended for its contribution to geographic education and outreach. 

The podcast and its hosts have earned several distinctions for their work: 

• In 2012, the co-hosts recieved an ESRI Special Achievement in GIS (SAG) Award to VerySpatial.com LLC (2012) presented by Jack Dangermond, president and founder of Esri 
• In 2022, the American Association of Geographers (AAG) honored MacLennan and LaFone, with one of its highest distinctions for her service and scholarly contributions through VerySpatial. 
• In 2023, Fairmont State Assistant Professor of Geography Dr. Barbara MacLennan and Frank LaFone, GISP were selected as judges for the Annual Signal Awards, which honor and celebrate excellence in podcasting. The Signal Judging Academy is composed of esteemed podcasting professionals making significant contributions to the industry. 
• In 2024 and 2025, Dr. MacLennan and Dr. Lafone were again selected as Signal Awards judges, further underscoring their ongoing leadership in the podcasting space. 

 

Dr. MacLennan and LaFone exemplify Fairmont State University’s vision of being a Great Place to Learn, bringing their deep expertise and enthusiasm for geography into the classroom to inspire and engage students. Their national and international recognition highlights the innovation, dedication, and academic excellence they contribute each day. Just as importantly, their accomplishments underscore Fairmont State’s vision of being a Great Place to Work, where faculty achievement is celebrated, and the tremendous value these educators bring to the institution is recognized and honored. 

The team’s ongoing commitment to geographic storytelling and education continues to inspire both students and professionals to understand the role of spatial thinking in our digital and physical environments. 

To listen to A VerySpatial Podcast, visit: www.veryspatial.com 

 For FeedSpot’s Top 15 list, visit: podcast.feedspot.com/geography_podcasts