Bob Swanson writes and performs children’s music about weather and astronomy for school and library groups. In an effort to teach science in an innovative and interesting way, Bob combines his passions for both science and music. A self-trained musician who plays guitar, harmonica, mandolin, banjo, ukulele and accordion, Bob spent a decade as a professional weatherman – 6 years on television and 4 years in print/online working as assistant weather editor at USA TODAY.

“He is the next Bill Nye or the next Neil deGrasse Tyson, who is spreading the word about science in a fun way.”

Loraine Walker, Children’s Librarian, Starkville (MS) Public Library

As an award-winning educator (2017 MSVCC “Instructor of the Year”), Bob has taught a variety of earth and physical science courses at the high school and college level. He currently works as an instructor / lab coordinator in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Mississippi State University.

“Stormin’ Bob was great to work with while getting our time together planned and scheduled.  I highly recommend his expertise to any school interested in an awesome science experience.”

Aynsley Farmer, Music Specialist, Pierce Street Elementary, Tupelo, MS

Bob spends his summers taking his science shows on the road, with the help of his wife, Meredith, and sons DJ, Nate, and Henry. Whether “Taking the State by Storm” (weather program, Summer 2018), going “Out of this World” (astronomy program, Summer 2019), telling “Sky Stories” (storytelling program, Summer 2020), “Diving into Science” (weather & marine science, Summer 2022), “Song Cycles” (natural cycles – water, rock, life of a star – Summer 2023), or taking a “Magical Musical Meteorology Tour” (science is magic that’s real, Summer 2024), Stormin’ Bob can tailor a program to meet the needs, age-range and interests of your audience.

“It would not be as fun if you did not do the songs and play the instruments and if you were not energetic.”

Meri-Campbell Davis, student, Saltillo Elementary

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