Bug Note Episode 2: All You Bug Haters

About Episode 2

In this week’s episode, host Daniel Potter chats with Christy Bills, NHMU’s Invertebrate Collections Manager, about the bad reputation that many bugs unfairly endure. 

Many of us learn from a young age to hate or fear insects. We’re warned about bites and stings, hear adults express their dislike for the crawling critters, and adopt those same patterns of thinking. Bills notes it’s natural to be wary of things we’re unfamiliar with, but easing that fear starts with curiosity. 

So, for all you bug haters out there, this episode is for you. Listen to the podcast here or scroll down to watch the video version.

Potter and Bills chat candidly and compassionately about the fear of bugs, acknowledging that it’s a struggle many individuals face — but it’s one that can be overcome. Perhaps you won’t fall in love with insects the way Bills has, but her hope is that through curiosity and education, you’ll develop a respect for their role in our world. Here’s what she says: 

“We are often afraid of things that we don't understand. Things seem foreign to us, so we feel nervous about them. But when you learn more about insects (and even spiders), you see that they're actually not that interested in hurting us.” 

That’s a common sentiment expressed to those with bug phobias, but it has merit. Most bugs don’t want anything to do with humans. To this point, Bills adds, “The metaphor I like to use is that if Godzilla marched into your town, would you run over and bite him on the toe? Probably not. You'd run away. And that's how insects see us. We're very large and dangerous to them. So, they want to move away from us and not hurt us.” 

When you think of it that way, it makes sense. Why would a tiny insect want to face off against a giant human? Yes, bites and stings occasionally happen, but that’s the exception — not the rule. 

Insects are marvels. They’re innovative and resilient, and some of the technologies we use day-to-day have been inspired by the abilities of these clever critters! That’s one of the many cool themes of NHMU’s newest special exhibition, Bug World, which is open now through September 7, 2026. 

So if you’re learning to love bugs, trying to help a child overcome their fear of bugs, or rewiring your own thinking about the bugs in your backyard, consider taking Christy’s advice: “When we learn more about things that are different, we often find that they're lovely, interesting, and fascinating, and that they make our lives richer.”

Bug Note on YouTube

Check out the extended version of Episode 2 on YouTube. Be sure to like and subscribe to receive notice of upcoming episodes. 

About Bug Note

Bug Note is hosted by Daniel Potter, a science writer who's also worked in the world of public radio for many years, and who loves fresh air and storytime. He's joined by Dr. Jason Cryan, NHMU’s Sarah B. George Executive Director and trained entomologist, and Christy Bills, NHMU's Invertebrate Collections Manager, as well as other bug-loving guests. Video production by Blank Space. The podcast is created in collaboration with the Natural History Museum of Utah, with the expertise and support of its scientific, philanthropic, marketing, and education teams. Special thanks to NHMU friend and insect enthusiast Ted Fridirici.

Return to the Bug Note podcast landing page.

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