This WKRP Montrose episode was brought to you by:
🧬 From Montrose to Stanford with Dr. Gerald Spangrude
Dennis and Rob sit down with Dr. Gerald Spangrude, a retired full professor of medicine from the University of Utah and current Executive Director and Adjunct Professor of Stanford University’s PhD program in Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine.
Dr. Spangrude shares the story behind his Norwegian family name, his journey from Salt Lake City to Montrose, and the biomedical research career that led to a landmark 1988 publication on the isolation of the blood stem cell—a discovery that helped establish methods still fundamental to modern stem cell biology.
The conversation explores the different types of stem cells, the potential for regenerative medicine to repair damaged tissue and eventually grow organs for transplantation, and how Dr. Spangrude found himself returning to Stanford after retirement.
And there’s a more local side to the story, too—from making award-winning cider from apples grown on his property to discovering the community that makes Montrose home.
IN THIS EPISODE
The Science, the Journey & Life in Montrose
Dr. Spangrude’s Norwegian family history and the origin of the Spangrude name.
Why he and his wife eventually left Salt Lake City for Montrose.
His career in immunology, microbiology, and blood stem cell research.
The 1988 Stanford research that helped advance modern stem cell biology.
The difference between embryonic, adult, and induced pluripotent stem cells.
How stem cell research could help regenerate cartilage and eventually grow organs for transplantation.
Why Dr. Spangrude returned to Stanford to help lead its Stem Cell Biology PhD program.
Making homemade cider from apples grown right here in Montrose.
Support WKRP — become a Producer
For $5/month you get early access, episode credits, and behind-the-mic updates from Rob & Dennis. Help us bring more community conversations like this one to Montrose.
Huge Thank You to Our Underwriters
