Outside of his work with the university, he is known for his online videos covering the geology of the Northwestern United States and his series Nick on the Rocks.
He is known for his work in making online videos and public lectures covering the geology of the Northwestern United States.
[4] During the COVID-19 pandemic Zentner created live streaming lectures on various geology topics in a series called Nick From Home.
[6][7] In 2024, Zentner was recognized by the Geological Association of Canada with their E. R. Ward Neale Medal for sustained outstanding efforts in sharing Earth science with Canadians.
[9] Two episodes of Nick on the Rocks, "Teanaway Tropics" and "Saddle Mountains Buried in Ash", were granted Northwest Emmy Awards by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences on June 5, 2021.