Following the Photons: A Photonics Podcast
Welcome to Laser Focus World’s Following the Photons: A Photonics Podcast, produced by Endeavor Business Media, a division of EndeavorB2B. Here, we take a deep dive into the fascinating world of photonics and optics. With a legacy dating back to 1965, Laser Focus World has been a trusted source for comprehensive global coverage of technologies, applications, and markets in these dynamic fields. Following the Photons is an extension of that legacy.
This podcast — hosted by Justine Murphy, an editor with Laser Focus World and multimedia director of Endeavor Business Media’s Digital Infrastructure group — features interviews and discussions with industry and research experts, providing valuable perspectives on the issues, technologies, and trends shaping the photonics community.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your journey in photonics, this podcast is your go-to resource for staying informed and inspired. Tune in and stay laser-focused on the future of light-based technologies.
Listen on:
Episodes
2 hours ago
2 hours ago
This episode features Dr. Patrick Heissler, CEO of SCRONA. He has a doctorate in physics from the Max Planck Institute for Quantum Optics, and has conducted research at institutions including Los Alamos National Lab.
In this chat, we covered his current work and initiatives at SCRONA, his involvement in organizations like the Plug and Play Tech Center, and some lessons learned throughout his extensive career.
7 days ago
7 days ago
This episode features Travis Wood, president of Montana-based Lattice Materials, a company specializing in custom infrared optics using silicon and germanium.
He’s also a board member of the Montana Photonics and Quantum Alliance, and works closely with the Photonic and Laser Technology program at Montana State University’s Gallatin College.
In this fun chat, he talks with host Justine Murphy about Lattice Materials and some recent accolades, as well as workplace culture, the company’s ever-advancing role in the photonics industry, and the growing photonics hub in Montana.
Tuesday Feb 03, 2026
Tuesday Feb 03, 2026
This episode features Barry Silverstein, a seasoned optics and photonics innovator (namely at Meta’s Reality Labs) who recently joined the University of Rochester as director of the school’s Center for eXtended Reality.
He talked with host Justine Murphy about the Center and its mission, and delved into the future of AR, VR, and AI.
Friday Jan 30, 2026
Friday Jan 30, 2026
This edition of Following the Photons features Brian O’Connor, vice president of Growth and Strategy at Aerotech, a globally reaching developer of advanced precision motion control and automation technologies for industries including optics and photonics, precision manufacturing, and life sciences.
He recently sat down with our host Justine Murphy at the SPIE Photonics West exhibition in San Francisco to talk about the company and its innovative products, as well as his thoughts and insight into the industry overall, what the future may hold, and Aerotech’s place in it.
Tuesday Jan 13, 2026
Tuesday Jan 13, 2026
Here is a great episode featuring Dr. Mario Paniccia, CEO and co-founder of silicon photonics startup ANELLO Photonics. He founded ANELLO with more than 20 years of experience under his belt at companies including Intel, where he started a silicon photonics program.
And for this work, and his many other contributions to the field of silicon photonics, Dr. Paniccia was inducted into the National Academy of Engineers in 2021.
Tuesday Jan 06, 2026
Tuesday Jan 06, 2026
This first episode of 2026 features Craig Bandes, president and CEO of next-generation nanomaterial developer/manufacturer Pixelligent Technologies. He has more than 25 years of experience as a CEO, entrepreneur, and investor covering industries including technology and defense.
Tuesday Dec 30, 2025
Tuesday Dec 30, 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, we're revisiting the year's interesting and intriguing interviews. Here are excerpts from the top 5 most popular Following the Photons episodes of 2025.
Thank you all for your continued support! Cheers to a happy and prosperous 2026!
Tuesday Dec 23, 2025
Tuesday Dec 23, 2025
Here's another edition of Light News! Join host Justine Murphy as she follows the photons into some of the coolest, most exciting news impacting the photonics industry.
Tuesday Dec 16, 2025
Tuesday Dec 16, 2025
Host Justine Murphy talked recently with Michele Nichols, president of Launch Team Inc., a strategic marketing firm that helps photonics-focused companies to navigate change and ultimately boost their competitive advantage.
In this episode, Michele shares her perspectives on the state of the industry and where it’s headed, as well as some thoughts and hopes for the future.
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
This episode features Dirk Hauschild, a Senior Strategic Marketing Expert with Focuslight Technologies.
He talks with host Justine Murphy about his more than 30 years of experience in the design, development, and integration of micro-optical components and systems, his work with Focuslight, and his thoughts on the future.