Ologies with Alie Ward
Volcanoes. Trees. Drunk butterflies. Mars missions. Slug sex. Death. Beauty standards. Anxiety busters. Beer science. Bee drama. Take away a pocket full of science knowledge and charming, bizarre stories about what fuels these professional -ologists' obsessions. Humorist and science correspondent Alie Ward asks smart people stupid questions and the answers might change your life.
Wed, April 09, 2025
Discard Anthropology (GARBAGE) Encore with Robin Nagle
Landfills! Treasures in the trash! Corporate conspiracies! Composting! An instantly classic conversation with the incredibly knowledgeable, frank and wonderful Dr. Robin Nagle of New York University’s Liberal Studies! She is a clinical professor, author, TED speaker and former New York City sanitation worker and truly the best person on Earth to trash talk with. We cover what you can and can’t actually recycle, sticky mustard bottles, drugs in the trash, Swedish Death Cleaning, mobsters and landfills, Bitcoin in the dump, the future of garbage and exactly how screwed we are. Enjoy. Visit Robin Nagle’s website Follow Robin on Instagram and Bluesky Read Robin’s book Picking Up , an ethnography of New York City's Department of Sanitation A donation was made to the Sanitation Foundation More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Oceanology (OCEANS) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) , Space Archaeology (SPACE JUNK) , Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT) , Futurology (THE FUTURE) , Disasterology (DISASTERS) , Ursinology (BEARS) , Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) , Conservation Technology (EARTH SAVING) , Scatology (POOP) , Agnotology (IGNORANCE) , Xylology (LUMBER) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on <a href="https://www.in
Wed, April 02, 2025
Medieval Codicology (WEIRD MEDIEVAL MANUSCRIPT ART & MEMES & SNAILS) with Evan Pridmore
Medieval art memes! Human-faced animals! Drunk monks! And a preponderance of snails. Middle Ages manuscript expert, art history communicator, and Medieval Codicologist Evan Pridmore covers: what those golden illuminated Middle Ages manuscripts were made of, who drew them, why were people sometimes naked in them, what art trends came and went – and what does it say about our history and future, immigration politics, antisemitism, what exactly is a Salisbury steak, and so much more. Also: the perfect tree for your home orchard. Follow Evan on Instagram , TikTok , and Bluesky Donations went to the World Central Kitchen and the American Civil Liberties Union More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Anthropodermic Biocodicology (HUMAN LEATHER BOOKS) , Malacology (SNAILS & SLUGS) , Classical Archeology (ANCIENT ROME) , Metropolitan Tombology (PARIS CATACOMBS) , Museology (MUSEUMS) Encore in Memory of Ronnie Cline , Modern Toichographology (MURALS & STREET ART) , Proptology (THEATER & FILM PROPS) , Pectinidology (SCALLOPS) , Anagnosology (READING) , FIELD TRIP: I Go France and Learn Weird France Stuff Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@alie_ologies" ta
Wed, March 26, 2025
Domestic Phytology (HOUSEPLANTS) with Tyler Thrasher
Fungus gnats. Overloved cacti. Fiddle fig failures. $20,000 specimens. It’s house plants — and it’s wild, folks. Widely beloved author, artist, house plant expert and Domestic Phytologist Tyler Thrasher joins to talk about root rot, what to grow in a dark basement, the rarest plants in the world, the punishments for poaching them, grow lights for people and plants, houseplant ethics, how to keep your cats from taking whizzes in them, if you should name your plants, how often to repot them, how to keep an orchid out of your trash can, pet-safe, plants, if one should use their own surplus blood to feed them, and what botany crimes I have committed against my own plants. Visit Tyler Thrasher’s website and follow him on Instagram , Bluesky and TikTok Buy his book, The Universe in 100 Colors , at Bookshop.org or Amazon , and his journal, Grow a Damn Plant Journal See Tyler at San Diego’s Oddities Flea Market March 29 & 30, 2025 A donation went to The Loveland Foundation More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Cycadology (RARE PLANT DRAMA) , Dendrology (TREES) , Indigenous Pedology (SOIL SCIENCE) , Mycology (MUSHROOMS) , Pomology (APPLES) , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Genocidology (CRIMES OF ATROCITY) , Zymology (BEER) , FIELD TRIP: I Go France and Learn Weird France Stuff , Carniv
Wed, March 19, 2025
Post-Viral Epidemiology (LONG COVID) Part 2 with Wes Ely
Long Covid Part 2: Treatments. Studies. Histamines. Hormones. POTS. Clots. Hearts. Hope. Highly-respected Long Covid expert, Dr. Wes Ely, is back for all of your listener questions. We also check in with Physics Girl Diana Cowern on her years-long struggle with the disease. So start with Part 1, and then finish up with this episode addressing all your straggling questions, and great advice for patients and caregivers. Follow Dr. Ely on GoogleScholar Buy Dr. Ely’s book, Every Deep-Drawn Breath , on Bookshop.org or Amazon Donations went to: Critical Illness, Brain Dysfunction, And Survivorship (CIBS) Center , Cohen Center for Recovery from Complex Chronic Illness , and Open Medicine Foundation – Diana Cowern’s favorite cause to support clinical trials More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Surgical Angiology (VEINS & ARTERIES) , Cardiology (THE HEART) , Disability Sociology (DISABILITY PRIDE) , Molecular Biology (PROTEINS + SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) , Nephrology (KIDNEYS) , Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and TikTok Editing by Mercedes Maitland of <a href="http://mait
Wed, March 12, 2025
Post-Viral Epidemiology (LONG COVID) Part 1 with Wes Ely
What is Long Covid? Is it real? What does it feel like? Do you have it? And how do you cure it? With fatigue and brain fog, you don’t want to spend hours scrolling through conflicting opinions. So we’ve got you covered with the wonderful and highly-respected pulmonologist and intensive care physician and Long Covid expert, Dr. Wes Ely. So tuck in, breathe deep and let’s load you up with true facts about what Long Covid is, how it differs from other post-viral illnesses, variants and Long Covid risk, why people say it’s not real, advice for caregivers, changing opinions in medicine, similarities to HIV, treatment options, auto-immune issues, POTS, post-exertional malaise, the best way to prevent it. Next week: Part 2 with even more info. Follow Dr. Ely on GoogleScholar and Bluesky Buy Dr. Ely’s book , Every Deep-Drawn Breath , on Bookshop.org or Amazon A donation went to the Critical Illness, Brain Dysfunction, And Survivorship (CIBS) Center More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Surgical Angiology (VEINS & ARTERIES) , Cardiology (THE HEART) , Disability Sociology (DISABILITY PRIDE) , Molecular Biology (PROTEINS + SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) , Nephrology (KIDNEYS) , Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on <a hre
Wed, March 05, 2025
Reality TV Sociology (‘TRASH’ TV) with Danielle Lindemann
Nude strangers. Icy roads. Brain rot. True love. Class warfare. Queer visibility. Scripted ad libs. Sociologist, professor, author of the book “True Story: What Reality TV Says About Us,” and straight up Reality TV Sociologist, Dr. Danielle Lindemann studies human behavior through the lens of pop culture and reality TV. Dr. Lindemann lays out the history of the medium, the complexities of why we watch, the effect on society at large, who signs up to be on these shows, how our reactions change to it over time, political consequences of reality TV, and what these shows can teach us about ourselves and each other. Also: the Jackie & Shadow show. Visit Dr. Lindemann’s website and follow her on Bluesky Buy her books including True Story: What Reality TV Says About Us on Bookshop.org or Amazon A donation went to the Pedro Zamora Scholarship More episode sources and links The Jackie & Shadow Show Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: FIELD TRIP: A Hollywood Visit to the Writers Guild Strike Line , Phonology (LINGUISTICS) , Kalology (BEAUTY STANDARDS) , Matrimoniology (MARRIAGE) , Ethnocynology (HUMANS & DOGS THROUGH TIME) , Fanthropology (FANDOMS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram a
Sat, March 01, 2025
Field Trip: Activism Art Panel Recorded at WonderCon
Exactly the inspiration you need. Exactly the perfect time. Pass it on to anyone who loves art and/or speaking up. I went to Comic-Con’s little sister, WonderCon, to moderate a panel on protest art with expert Carol Wells, the founder of the Center for the Study of Political Graphics and C. Andrew Hall, from the Spesh Ep: Functional Magic's Environmental Art episode we did in 2021 about the non-profit he founded. So come along to WonderCon – free admission – as we chat about protest art, different approaches graphically, camouflage among ads, defining propaganda, the tiniest mightiest posters, collectible gig posters for the climate, and how the anti-war movement affected history. Also, short warning, we do discuss a few images of war photojournalism in this episode. Donations were made to the Center for the Study of Political Graphics and Functional Magic Yay! Functional Magic t-shirt Kickstarter! Zoom: March 3, 8pm EST: A Beginners Guide to Street Art with Dr. Sarah McAnulty More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Spesh Ep: Functional Magic's Environmental Art , Modern Toichographology (MURALS & STREET ART) , FIELD TRIP: I Take You to the Making of a Mural , Genocidology (CRIMES OF ATROCITY) , Agnotology (WILLFUL IGNORANCE) , Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT) , Theoretical & Creative Ecology (SCIENCE & ECOPOETRY) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@alie_ologies" t
Wed, February 26, 2025
Cardiology (THE HEART) with Herman Taylor
It beats. It throws blood. It breaks – but not if Dr. Herman Taylor can help it. He is a physician, professor and director of the Cardiovascular Research Institute at the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, and an absolute legend. Cardiology is a vast field but Dr. Taylor joined for a 101 on how the heart works, and how to take care of it. Get pumped for valves, tubes, electrical shocks, Grey’s Anatomy glossaries, heavy metal hearts, the effects of long term stress and systemic oppression on the heart, what those blood pressure numbers mean, what to do in an emergency, cardiac disease symptoms, what your heart wants you to eat, how to decipher your cholesterol numbers and why you would want to. Also: the worst heart tattoos out there. Browse Dr. Taylor’s publications on ResearchGate and follow Dr. Matthew Evan Taylor A donation went to the Center for Black Agency and Resilience More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Surgical Angiology (VEINS & ARTERIES) , Hematology (BLOOD) , BlackAFinSTEM with various Ologists , Black American Magirology (FOOD, RACE & CULTURE) , Surgical Oncology (BREAST CANCER) , Thyroidology (THYROID GLAND) , Addictionology (ADDICTION) , Somnology (SLEEP) , Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS) , FIELD TRIP: My Butt, a Colonoscopy Ride Along & How-To Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and <a href="https://www.
Wed, February 19, 2025
Erethizonology (PORCUPINES) with Tim Bean
Barbs. Grunts. Bone caves. Dogs who got too close. We got porcupines, folks. Dr. Tim Bean of Cal Poly is as charming an ologist you can get, fielding questions about porcupine squeaks, stanks, cartoonish noses, and some romantic gestures that will leave you wanting to bleach your brain. We also cover counting quills, male models, flim-flam about quill removal, how to spot a porcupine in the wild, how to gently detain one for research, and so much more. An absolute instant classic. Follow Dr. Bean on Google Scholar and visit the Bean Lab website A donation went to NAFWS: Native American Fish & Wildlife Society More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Castorology (BEAVERS) , Lepidopterology (BUTTERFLIES) , Ethnocynology (ANCIENT DOGS AND HUMANS) , Lupinology (WOLVES) , Road Ecology (ROAD KILL) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and TikTok Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jake Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, February 12, 2025
Agnotology (WILLFUL IGNORANCE) Updated Encore with Dr. Robert Proctor
Yes, there is an -ology for that. And yes, we’re airing this episode -– with a ton of 2025 updates -– because it’s never felt more relevant. Dr. Robert Proctor is a Stanford professor of the History of Science and co-edited the book “Agnotology: The Making & Unmaking of Ignorance,” having coined the word 30 years ago. We chat about everything from tobacco marketing, to the sugar lobby, to racial injustice, horse vision, the psychology of the Flat Earther movement, which countries have the highest rates of climate denial, empathy, how to navigate difficult conversations and why it's critical to dismantle the systems of willful ignorance, starting locally. Dr. Robert Proctor’s book: "Agnotology: The Making and Unmaking of Ignorance" His 2021 book: Science and the Production of Ignorance: When the Quest for Knowledge Is Thwarted . Donations in Dr. Proctor’s name went to: SavingBlackLives.org and the Public Health Advocacy Institute An additional donation went to The National Black Law Students Association More episode sources and links, including info on Federal Workers Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may “enjoy”: Genocidology (CRIMES OF ATROCITY) , Attention Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) , Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT) , Disasterology (DISASTERS), Conservation Technology (EARTH SAVING) , Phenology (FALL/SEASONS), Oceanology (OCEANS) , Futurology (THE FUTURE) , Selenology (THE MOON) , Gemology (STONES & GEMS) , Nomology (THE CONSTITUTION) , Neurotechnology (AI + BRAIN TECH) , Pedagogology (SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) with Bill Nye , <a href="https://www.alieward.com/ologies/vac
Wed, February 05, 2025
Hippopotomology (HIPPOS) with Rebecca Lewison
Do they sweat blood? Will one kill you? What are cocaine hippos? Is Moo Deng… okay? Actual real life Hippopotomologist Dr. Rebecca Lewison explains how hippos have some of the best – and worst – PR. We chat about pet hippos, subspecies, daily diets, the current state of hippo conservation, the absolute chaotic affection we have for pygmy hippos, their role as ecosystem engineers, what’s up with their nostrils, and how to keep a hippo in your pocket. Also: how to flatter your friends into planning a group vacation. Visit the Lewison Lab at SDSU and follow Dr. Lewison on Google Scholar A donation went to The Wechiau Community Hippo Sanctuary (WCHS) More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Pinnipedology (SEALS & WALRUSES) , Wildlife Ecology (FIELDWORK) , Cucurbitology (PUMPKINS) , Culicidology (MOSQUITOES) , Scatology (POOP) , Conservation Technology (EARTH SAVING) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and TikTok Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jake Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, January 29, 2025
Thyroidology (THYROID GLAND) with Kepal Patel
Sad? Cold? Hot? Wired? Blame the thyroid. Maybe. In your throat there is a butterfly-shaped gland under a shield-shaped Adam’s Apple and it controls your whole life, kind of. We asked Thyroidologist and surgeon Dr. Kepal Petal of NYU's Langone Hospital about libido factors, radioactive cats, stress and thyroids, how diet can affect them, deciphering labs, flim-flam and how being on TV might save your life. He’s a delight and your thyroid honestly DESERVES the attention. Pass it on to everyone who has ever talked to you about a thyroid. Learn more about Dr. Patel Follow NYU Langone Health on Instagram and YouTube NYU Langone’s Thyroid Program A donation went to The American Association of Endocrine Surgeons (AAES) More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) , Laryngology (VOICE BOXES) , Trichology (HAIR) , Evolutionary Anthropology (METABOLISMS) , Environmental Toxicology (POISONS + TRAIN DERAILMENT) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and TikTok Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, January 22, 2025
Eco-Odorology (SCIENCE-SNIFFING DOGS) with Kayla Fratt
Dogs doing science. With their faces. As a follow-up to last week’s Ethnocynology episode about humans domesticating wolves, we chat with conservation biologist and Eco-odorologist Kayla Fratt (and her working dog Barley) about how trained animals help scientists. Sit – and stay – to learn how rescue dogs can get their dog-torate degrees, which rewards work when training, dogs on a boat, dogs in the jungle, wolves in the sea, why noses are wet, how your sense of smell is trash, the price of a police dog, and how you can get into this field working with your best buddy. Visit Kayla Fratt’s website and follow her on Bluesky Visit K9 Conservationists’s website and follow them on Instagram , YouTube and TikTok Listen to the K9 Conservationists podcast on Apple and Spotify Donations went to K9 Conservationists and Fundación Naturaleza El Salvador More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Ethnocynology (HUMANS & DOGS THROUGH TIME) , Field Trip: How to Change Your Life , Cervidology (DEER) , Mammalogy (MAMMALS) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) , Lupinology (WOLVES) , Canine Speech Pathology (DOGS WITH BUTTONS) , Felinology (CATS) , Island Ecology (ISLANDS) , Wildlife Ecology (FIELDWORK) , Scatology (POOP) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped
Wed, January 15, 2025
Ethnocynology (HUMANS & DOGS THROUGH TIME) with David Ian Howe
Ancient dogs! Domestic wolves! Anthropology! Archaeology! It’s all Ethnocynology: when humans and dogs started living and working together. The wonderful and iconic David Ian Howe is an educator and professional archaeologist whose focus is canines and people. So let’s curl up and be cute – like dogs – as we listen about breed histories, what evidence we have for doggies being friends, how wolves tamed themselves, why our relationships with canines make us what we are, talking dogs, if it’s fair it ask your dog to love you back, corn paws, and why your dog is trying to make fetch happen. Visit David’s website and his podcasts, The David Ian Howe Show & Ethnocynology with David Ian Howe Follow David on Instagram , TikTok , YouTube , Patreon and Bluesky A donation went to the Native American Humane Society More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Lupinology (WOLVES) , Canine Speech Pathology (DOGS WITH BUTTONS) , Felinology (CATS) , Experimental Archaeology (ATLATLS) , Momiology (MUMMIFICATION) , Egyptology (ANCIENT EGYPT) , Classical Archaeology (ANCIENT ROME) , Mythology (STORYTELLING) , Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Radiology (X-RAY VISION) , Delphinology (DOLPHINS) , Functional Morphology (ANATOMY) , Zymology (BEER & YEAST) , Columbidology (PIGEONS) Sponsors of Ologies <a href="https://alieward.co
Fri, January 10, 2025
Fire Ecology (WILDFIRES & INDIGENOUS FIRE MANAGEMENT) Mega Encore with Gavin Jones & Amy Christianson
As wildfires burn across L.A. — and my neighborhood evacuates — we thought it would be a good time to encore these Fire Ecology episodes so I can literally catch my breath. First Dr. Gavin Jones brings the heat talking about what fire is, how hot it burns, fire trends, tinderboxes, lots and lots of forest fire flim-flam, tolerant wombats, Angelina Jolie Movies, cunning pine cones, thick bark, Indigenous fire stewardship and more. After the break, co-host of the podcast Good Fire Dr. Amy Christianson talks about how cultural burns and prescribed blazes can create healthy forests. She also discusses Indigenous history, collaborations between Western science & First Nations elders, Aboriginal thoughts on cultural burns, more flim-flam, evacuations, snowmelt, hunting strategies, land stewardship, happy trees, climate strategies, and the social science behind wildfire education. Also learning from Native wildfire fighters. Huge thanks to her and Matt Kristoff -- who also hosts the Your Forest Podcast -- for allowing us to use excerpts from their interview to launch Good Fire. Subscribe to both podcasts to get more ecological knowledge in your ears. CDC Advisory on Wildfire Smoke Follow Dr. Gavin Jones on Bluesky , Google Scholar and Instagram Follow Dr. Amy Christianson on Bluesky , Google Scholar and LinkedIn Donations were made to The Common Good Community Foundation and Indigenous Residential School Survivors Listen to the Good Fire podcast Also great: Your Forest podcast Other episodes you may like: Dendrology (TREES) , Forest Entomology (CREEPY CRAWLIES) , Xylology (LUMBER) , Pyrotechnology (CAMPFIRES) Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies <a
Tue, December 31, 2024
Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) Encore with Laurie Santos
HAPPINESS RESEARCH, straight up. What is happiness? How do our circumstances affect happiness? Why is the word “gratitude” kinda cringey? What can we do to feel better? Should we feel guilty for feeling happy? When is positivity “toxic?” In this encore of an episode favorite, Yale cognitive scientist, Eudemonologist, and host of The Happiness Lab podcast Dr. Laurie Santos chats about how scientists measure human happiness and what their research has shown helps achieve it, even during the worst of times. Also: silver medal face & countering counterfactuals, which will make sense when you listen. Visit Dr. Santos's website and follow her on Instagram , Threads , X , YouTube , and Facebook Her podcast: Happiness Lab A donation went to DonorsChoose.org More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Awesomeology (GRATITUDE FOR LITTLE THINGS) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Thanatology Encore (DEATH & GRIEF) , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Traumatology (PTSD) , Sports & Performance Psychology (ANXIETY & CONFIDENCE) , Phonology (LINGUISTICS) , Neuropathology (CONCUSSIONS) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Disability Sociology (DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH) , Dolorology (PAIN) Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts,
Tue, December 24, 2024
Cabinology (CABINS) Encore with Dale Mulfinger
The time is right to revisit cabins: Log cabins, woodsy getaways, A-frame cuties, cottages, tiny homes, lake houses. WE GET INTO IT, including 2024 updates. World famous Minnesota architect, author, professional cabinologist and human delight Dale Mulfinger sits down to discuss everything from what makes a cabin a cabin, to why we bond better surrounded by wood, Scandinavian hygge-ness, where to situate windows, cabin history, horror flicks and vacation activities. Alie sits there starry-eyed and stammers a bunch because she's so excited. More on Dale Mulfinger SALA Architects on Instagram Buy Dale's books on Bookshop.org and Amazon Donations went to: Clarence Wigington Minority Architectural Scholarship & The Slave Dwelling Project More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE FOODS) , Domicology (ABANDONED BUILDINGS) , Bisonology (BUFFALO) , Oneirology (DREAMS ), Xylology (LUMBER) , Dendrology (TREES) , Sciuridology (SQUIRRELS) , Ursinology (BEARS) , Nassology (TAXIDERMY) , Acaropathology (TICKS & LYME DISEASE) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/ologies.bsky.social" ta
Wed, December 18, 2024
Castorology (BEAVERS) with Rob Rich
Orange teeth! Vanilla butts! Architecture with twigs! Olde-timey joke books? Field naturalist, conservationist, wildlife tracker and “beaver believer” Rob Rich works with the National Wildlife Federation’s coordination of the Montana Beaver Working Group and answers all of our Castorological questions about: baby beavers, tooth tools, lodges, dams, the sound of water, the slap of a tail, who eats beaver and why, beavers in peril, in folklore, in smut books, in your neighborhood and in your dreams forever. Also: yes we discuss slang. Follow Rob Rich on LinkedIn A donation went to Tracker Certification North America More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Hydrochoerology (CAPYBARAS) , Bisonology (BUFFALO) , Road Ecology (ROAD KILL) , Sciuridology (SQUIRRELS) , Oreamnology (MOUNTAIN GOATS ARE NOT GOATS) , Lutrinology (OTTERS) , Procyonology (RACCOONS) , Opossumology (O/POSSUMS) , Mammalogy (MAMMALS) , Scatology (POOP) , Gynecology (NETHER HEALTH) , Sexology (SEX) , Dasyurology (TASMANIAN DEVILS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and TikTok Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and
Wed, December 11, 2024
Mnemonology (MEMORY) Part 2 with Michael Yassa
Remembering names! Preventing dementia! Photographic memories! Weed! Goldfish! It’s the thrilling conclusion of Mnemonology with Dr. Michael Yassa, the Director of UC Irvine’s Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory. We talk long vs. short term memories, how smells can pack a wallop of emotions, prosopagnosia (“facial blindness”), the fog of new parenthood, Alzheimer's and other causes of dementia, and tips to keep your brain in tip-top shape. Let’s make some mems. Listen to Part 1 here Follow Dr. Yassa on Google Scholar and X Visit the Yassa Translational Neuroscience Laboratory at UCI website A donation went to UC Irvine Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory’s graduate student and postdoctoral Junior Scholar Fund More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) , Traumatology (PTSD) , Sports & Performance Psychology (ANXIETY & CONFIDENCE) , Phonology (LINGUISTICS) , Neuropathology (CONCUSSIONS) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Surgical Angiology (VEINS & ARTERIES) , Disability Sociology (DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH) , Dolorology (PAIN) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@alie_olog
Wed, December 04, 2024
Mnemonology (MEMORY) Part 1 with Michael Yassa
How are memories made? Where are they stored? Where do they go? What was I just talking about? Neurobiologist, professor, researcher, and Director of UC Irvine’s Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, Dr. Michael Yassa, joins us for a two-parter deep diving into our memories. Get to know the cells that run your life while he also busts flim-flam, and talks about movie myths, aging and memory loss, childbirth amnesia, what happens when you cram for a test, hormones and memory, that thing where you can’t remember a word, how to let go of the past, and more. Next week, we’ll follow up with your Patreon questions about Alzheihmer’s, remembering people’s names, neurodivergence, dementia, collective misremembering, and so much more. Commit it to memory. Follow Dr. Yassa on Google Scholar and X Visit the Yassa Translational Neuroscience Laboratory at UCI website A donation went to UC Irvine Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory’s graduate student and postdoctoral fund More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) , Traumatology (PTSD) , Sports & Performance Psychology (ANXIETY & CONFIDENCE) , Phonology (LINGUISTICS) , Neuropathology (CONCUSSIONS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and TikTok Editing by Mercedes Maitland of <a hr
Wed, November 27, 2024
Surgical Angiology (VEINS & ARTERIES) with Sheila Blumberg
Vaping and vein health! Covid and clots! Easy bruising! Movie blood! Spider veins! Free socks! The heroic vascular surgeon Dr. Sheila Blumberg of NYU Langone Health let me ask her one million questions about how blood gets from point A to B all day. She explains the difference between arteries, veins, capillaries, and vessels and we cover everything from fainting to teenage movie tropes, how to tie a tourniquet, atherosclerosis, aneurysms, stents and why your leg is asleep right now. View Dr. Blumberg’s publications on ResearchGate A donation went to BreakingGround.org More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) , Field Trip: My Butt, Colonoscopy Ride Along , Functional Morphology (ANATOMY) , Hematology (BLOOD) , Surgical Oncology (BREAST CANCER) , Biogerontology (AGING) , Proptology (THEATER & FILM PROPS) , Vampirology (VAMPIRES) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and TikTok Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jake Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Mon, November 25, 2024
Field Trip: A Hawaiian Breadfruit Rev‘ULUtion
What even IS a breadfruit? How do you cook it? Why have Pacific Islanders grown it for so long? Can it solve world hunger? And what does it have to do with an infamous 18th century mutiny on the high seas? Pack your bags and hop aboard for not one but two island excursions to learn all about this rev-'ulu-tionary tropical staple. We start on a breezy Catalina Island dock to hear about the ethnobotany and ecobiology of breadfruit from Dr. Noa Kekuewa Lincoln before making our way to a farm tucked away on Hawaii’s Big Island for a tour from research assistant and PhD candidate Dolly Autufuga. On the itinerary: learning where it grows to planting one in your backyard to what’s that white sticky stuff and how do you make sure it doesn’t drop on your noggin? Let’s go Field Tripping. Learn more about the Rev'ULUtion at EatBreadfruit.com Follow Dr. Noa Kekuewa Lincoln at the Hawai‘i ‘Ulu Cooperative A donation went to the Chef Hui Fund , via EatBreadfruit.com More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Indigenous Cusinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Ethnoecology (ETHNOBOTANY/NATIVE PLANTS) , Indigenous Fashionology (NATIVE CLOTHING) , Pomology (APPLES) , Indigenous Pedology (SOIL SCIENCE) , Island Ecology (ISLANDS) , Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) , Coffeeology (YEP, COFFEE) , Black American Magriology (FOOD, RACE, & CULTURE) , Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) , Dendrology (TREES) Encore , Oceanology (OCEANS) Encore , Volcanology (VOLCANOES) More Field Trips you may enjoy: Birds of Prey and Raptor Facts , I Chased the 2024 Eclipse with Umbraphiles , I Take You to the Making of a
Wed, November 20, 2024
Canistrumology (BASKET WEAVING. YES, BASKET WEAVING) with James C. Bamba
Thorny leaves! Embarrassing imports! Basket gossip! Making cool stuff from invasive vines! Renowned weaver and teacher, James C. Bamba, connected more deeply with his Mariana Island heritage through weaving and shares how you know when plant fiber is ready, the anatomy of a coconut tree, how to look a gift basket in the mouth, the baskets that he cherishes the most, how to design with your mind, what he thinks about when he’s weaving, basket jokes he hates the most, and when learning another culture’s craft is appropriate or appropriation. Follow James on Instagram A donation went to Sagan Kotturan Chamoru More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Ethnoecology (ETHNOBOTANY/NATIVE PLANTS) , Dendrology (TREES) , Indigenous Fashionology (NATIVE CLOTHING) , Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Indigenous Pedology (SOIL SCIENCE) , Heliology (THE SUN/ECLIPSES) , Neuroendocrinology (SEX & GENDER) , Ergopathology (BURNOUT) , Corvid Thanatology (CROW FUNERALS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow Ologies on Instagram and Bluesky Follow Alie Ward on Instagram and TikTok Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jake Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek
Wed, November 13, 2024
Ergopathology (BURNOUT) with Kandi Wiens
Exhaustion! Numbness! Anger! You’re stressed out. I get it. Let’s fix it. I cornered one of the world’s experts on Ergopathology, scholar and author Dr. Kandi Wiens, to ask about the causes of burnout, warning signs, what professions are more at risk, how to recover from burnout and prevent it in the future, which was the focus of her book, “Burnout Immunity.” We also chat about neurodiversity, hockey mascots, childhood trauma, how do you tell your boss you're burned the F out, grit, and guilt. Also, you don't need to wait until you're on a tropical vacation to recharge. In fact, don't. Content warning: we briefly discuss suicide rates in certain professions. Visit Kandi Wiens’ website Buy her book, Burnout Immunity , on Amazon or Bookshop.org A donation went to Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) , Personality Psychology (PERSONALITIES) , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Funology (YES, FUN) , Genocidology (CRIMES OF ATROCITY) , Suicidology (SUICIDE PREVENTION & AWARENESS) , Traumatology (PTSD) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Produ
Wed, November 06, 2024
Odonatology (DRAGONFLIES) with Jessica Ware
They’re acrobatic fliers with long bodies and veined wings and their babies breathe through their butts: dragonflies. Let’s get into the difference between a damselfly and dragonfly, how fast they dart around, how big they were in the age of the dinosaurs, sci-fi aviation inspiration, mating choreography, attracting them to your yard (maybe to eat them) and lots more with scholar, American Museum of Natural History curator, and dragonfly expert: Dr. Jessica Ware. Visit Dr. Ware’s website and follow her on Google Scholar , Instagram and X Buy Jessica’s children’s book, Bugs (A Day in the Life): What Do Bees, Ants, and Dragonflies Get up to All Day? , on Amazon or Bookshop.org A donation went to the World Dragonfly Association More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Entomology (INSECTS) , Lepidopterology (BUTTERFLIES) , Cicadology (CICADAS) , Sparklebuttology (FIREFLIES) , Dipterology (FLIES) , Entomophagy Anthropology (EATING BUGS) , Plumology (FEATHERS) , Melaninology (SKIN/HAIR PIGMENT) , Ophthalmology (EYES) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on <a href="https://www
Wed, October 30, 2024
Field Trip: I Take You to the Making of a Mural
Folks, come with me. We’re hanging out under some train tracks late at night in Philadelphia doing street art. As the promised companion piece to our wonderful Modern Toichographology episode on murals and street art, this Field Trip takes us to where the action happens, chatting with several muralists as they work on their 17-foot paintings lining Front Street. You’ll meet UNAPXLXGETIQ, El Toro, and Iris Barbee Pendergrass a.k.a. These Pink Lips, Donna Grace Kroh, and Mr. Scoot and learn about their favorite inspirations, methods to making their designs huge, how many Sharpies it takes to outline a building-sized painting, sticker vs. marker vs. paint, graphic and text mural designs, freehand, and most of all, how not to get caught doing illegal art. Onward. A donation went to Mural Arts Philadelphia Conrad Brenner / Streets Dept Instagram | website Mural Arts Philadelphia Instagram | website Donna Grace Kroh Instagram Iris Barbee Pendergrass/ These Pink Lips Instagram | website Emmanuel Wisdom/ Unapxlxgetiq Instagram | website Michele Scott / Mr. Scooot Instagram | website Justin Nagatalon / El Toro Instagram | website Emily White (wasn’t in the ep but was the 4th muralist of the set) Instagram More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and <a href="https://twitter.com
Wed, October 23, 2024
Confectionology (CANDY) with Susan Benjamin
Licorice opinions! War chocolate! Candy corn origins, circus peanut secrets, the sourest sourballs, and your great aunt’s purse. Stay until the very end for the biggest shocked laugh I have ever had on this show. The incredibly charming author, journalist, candy historian, and Confectiologist Susan Benjamin chats about everything from apothecary origin stories, ethnobotany, having horehound on hand, the warheads that could save you, vegan candy controversy, sugar sources from beets to corn, Turkish temptations, Roman flim-flam, marzipan mini-sculptures, sugar plum ballets, what she gives out for Halloween candy. and the best way to enjoy treats if you're trying to stay healthy. An absolute instant classic. Visit Susan Benjamin’s historic candy company True Treats Buy Susan’s latest book, Fun Foods of America: Outrageous Delights, Celebrated Brands, and Iconic Recipes , on Amazon or Bookshop.org A donation went to Animal Welfare Society of Jefferson County More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Gustology (TASTE) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Carobology (NOT-CHOCOLATE TREES) , Glycobiology (CARBS) , Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) , Melittology (BEES) , Native Melittology (INDIGENOUS BEES) , Columbidology (PIGEONS? YES) , Felinology (CATS) , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , FIELD TRIP: My Butt, a Colonoscopy Ride Along & How-To , Nephology (CLOUDS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a b
Thu, October 17, 2024
Momiology (MUMMIFICATION) Part 2 with Salima Ikram & Kara Cooney
Coffin engravings! Archaeology ethics! Linen wrappings! Repatriation! Sexy hippos! We’re back with more mummies in this Part 2 with the wonderful Drs. Salima Ikram & Kara Cooneywho chat about animal mummies, eating mummified remains, plant resins, the debate over human sacrifice, coffin reuse, Egyptian tourism, the worst temple gift shop in history, and what happens if you’re late to your own funeral. Also: is all religion magic? Let’s get into it. More Spooktober episodes Visit Dr. Cooney’s website and follow her on Instagram , X , YouTube , and Facebook Get Kara’s latest book, Recycling for Death: Coffin Reuse in Ancient Egypt and the Theban Royal Caches , and browse her other books on Amazon or Bookshop.org Subscribe to Kara’s Substack Ancient/Now Visit Dr. Ikram’s website and follow her on Facebook Get Salima’s latest book, Let a Cow-Skin Be Brought: Armour, Chariots and Other Leather Remains in Tutankhamun’s Tomb , and browse her other books on Amazon or Bookshop.org Donations went to the Yellowhammer Fund and Doctors Without Borders More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Egyptology (ANCIENT EGYPT) , Attention-Deficit Neuropyschology (ADHD) , Vampirology (VAMPIRES) , Forest Entomology (CREEPY CRAWLIES) , <a href="https://www.ali
Wed, October 09, 2024
Momiology (MUMMIFICATION) Part 1 with Kara Cooney & Salima Ikram
Linen wrapping. Expensive resins. Sarcophagi. Preserving for eternity – or until someone raids their tomb. It’s a brand-new Spooktober episode with not one but two guests: Dr. Salima Ikram is a professor of Egyptology and expert on mummification of both people and animals, and is joined by veteran guest from the Egyptology episode, professor and author Dr. Kara Cooney. The two chat about mummification techniques, how food studies lead into the pyramids, controversy over the word “mummy,” whiffing the dead, socioeconomic factors in mummification, animal mummies, lingering mysteries, field work, a house mouse, and more. Next week in Part 2 we’ll dive into more ethics of collections, human sacrifice, the people who ate mummified remains, paint colors, coffin engravings and the meaning of “magic.” Visit Dr. Cooney’s website and follow her on Instagram , X , YouTube , and Facebook Get Kara’s latest book, Recycling for Death: Coffin Reuse in Ancient Egypt and the Theban Royal Caches , and browse her other books on Amazon or Bookshop.org Subscribe to Kara’s Substack Ancient/Now Visit Dr. Ikram’s website and follow her on Facebook Get Salima’s latest book, Let a Cow-Skin Be Brought: Armour, Chariots and Other Leather Remains in Tutankhamun’s Tomb , and browse her other books on Amazon or Bookshop.org Donations went to the Yellowhammer Fund and Doctors Without Borders More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Egyptology (ANCIENT EGYPT) , <a href="https://www.alieward.com/ologies/tapholo
Wed, October 02, 2024
Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) Encore with Bobby Corrigan
Let’s kick off Spooktober with… RATS: They love pizza. They invade taquerias at midnight. They scurry. They cuddle. They outsmart. They inspire movies that inspire musicals. Proving that not just woodsy megafauna can be charismatic, rats have lives we would never suspect. Globally-lauded Urban Rodentologist Dr. Robert Corrigan, or Bobby if you like, has been studying these animals in their big-city ecosystem for decades and he is a wonder-filled joy. Learn about rats’ origin story, the difference between a rat and a mouse, where they live, their preferred “food dialects,” and how to (hopefully humanely) keep one out of your house -- or car? Might as well start to love and respect them, because we’re not-too-distantly related and one day… they may be steering the ship. Follow Bobby on X A donation went to the Yash Gandhi Foundation More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Sciuridology (SQUIRRELS) , Hydrochoerology (CAPYBARAS) , Procyonology (RACCOONS) , Opossumology (O/POSSUMS) , Columbidology (PIGEONS? YES) , Mammalogy (MAMMALS) , Disgustology (REPULSION TO GROSS STUFF) , Discard Anthropology (GARBAGE) , Epidemiology (DISEASES) , Maritime Archaeology (SHIPWRECKS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media, Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Produ
Thu, September 26, 2024
Modern Toichographology (MURALS & STREET ART) with Conrad Benner
Murals! Frescos! Graffiti! Street art! Philadelphia is the birthplace of graffiti and the mural capital of the world so we sit down with city historian, journalist, curator, and Toichographologist Conrad Benner to chat about public vs. private art, cultural movements, commissioned vs. um… un-commissioned murals, how mural topics are chosen, how much it costs to make a mural, where to get that money, vandalism and murals and the fine line between, and how everything you do is art. Let Philly’s history and 5,000 murals inspire you to gaze at what’s in your city and find out who made it, how you can get involved, and why it matters. Also: this episode will have a bonus Field Trip we’ll release in a week or so that will take you to a series of murals in the process of being born. Follow Conrad on Instagram , TikTok and X Visit his guide to Philadelphia’s public art and public space at StreetsDept.com Donations went to the William Way LGBT Community Center and SkypeAScientist.com Purchase a Frog Facts Advent Calendar at SquidFacts.net More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Political Sociology (VOTER TURNOUT & SUPPRESSION) , Nomology (THE CONSTITUTION) , Domicology (ABANDONED BUILDINGS, RECYCLED HOUSES & GHOST TOWNS) , Wildlife Ecology (FIELDWORK) , Very Special Episode: BlackAFinSTEM , Mythology (STORYTELLING) , Museology (MUSEUMS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ologies" target="_blank
Wed, September 18, 2024
Tardigradology (TINY SEMI-INDESTRUCTIBLE WATER BEAR MOSS PIGLET CREATURES CALLED TARDIGRADES) with Paul Bartels
Smaller than you can imagine. Potato-shaped. Mysterious. Romantic. And tough enough to survive the vacuum of space or decades of desiccation. Join professor and confirmed Tardigradologist Dr. Paul Bartels to saunter into a microscopic wonderland of bizarrely long naps, foreign genomes, moon landings, glow-in-the-dark moss piglets, cryptobiosis, kitten claws, knife mouths, balloon butts, spiders on Mars, splicing tardigrade DNA into ours, debunking flim-flam and the friends living in your gutters. Follow Dr. Bartels on ResearchGate and Google Scholar A donation went to the Xerces Society More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Bryology (MOSS) with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer , Planariology (VERY COOL WORMS, I PROMISE) , Benthopelagic Nematology (DEEP SEA WORMS) , Radiology (X-RAY VISION) , Microbiology (GUT BIOME) , FIELD TRIP: My Butt, a Colonoscopy Ride Along & How-To , Diplopodology (MILLIPEDES & CENTIPEDES) , Saurology (LIZARDS) , Astrobiology (ALIENS) , UFOlogy (UNEXPLAINED AERIAL PHENOMENA) , Etymology (WORD ORIGINS) , Ursinology (BEARS) , Carnivore Ecology (LIONS, TIGERS, & BEARS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productio
Wed, September 11, 2024
Suicidology (SUICIDE PREVENTION & AWARENESS) with DeQuincy Meiffren-Lézine
Give yourself a hug and take a deep breath and let’s chat with renowned Suicidologist Dr. DeQuincy Meiffren-Lézine. He is an absolute wonder and helps us understand the risk factors for suicide, prevention strategies, socio-economic factors, gender statistics, LGBTQ+ suicide prevention, what happens if you call a hotline, thoughts on hospitalization, how to support loved ones who have ideation, mourning those lost, learning to take care of yourself and your mental health and how living through the worst means by definition, shit gets better. ** IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY EXPERIENCING A CRISIS, PLEASE CONNECT WITH THE 988 SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINE. CALL OR TEXT 988 OR VISIT 988LIFELINE.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION. OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES, CONSULT WITH FINDAHELPLINE.COM ** Follow Dr. Meiffren-Lézine on ResearchGate , Instagram and LinkedIn Buy his book, It is My Blood to Scribe: Poetry of a Suicide Attempt Survivor , on Bookshop.org or Amazon More books by Dr. Meiffren-Lézine available on Amazon A donation went to Active Minds More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Dolorology (PAIN) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Addictionology (ADDICTION) , Traumatology (PTSD) , Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) , Awesomeology (GRATITUDE FOR LITTLE THINGS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hat
Tue, September 03, 2024
Coffeeology (COFFEE) with Peter Giuliano
When did coffee get into our mouths? Who’s right when it comes to the best coffee? What’s the most ethical way to enjoy it? What about the cats that eat the beans? How will climate change affect your morning coffee? Peter Giuliano is the executive director of the Coffee Science Foundation explains folk stories behind coffee, what makes beans taste the way they do, why cold brew and nitro feel like rocket fuel, shade-grown coffee, roasting chemistry, flimflam, atmospheric pressure, dead espresso, and the best way to brew it, in his opinion. Also: why it tastes better outside – for some of us. Follow Peter Giuliano on Instagram and LinkedIn A donation went to the Coffee Science Foundation , an arm of the Specialty Coffee Association More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Gustology (TASTE) , Disgustology (REPULSION TO GROSS STUFF) , Scatology (POOP) , Dendrology (TREES) , Carobology (NOT-CHOCOLATE TREES) , Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT) , Agnotology (IGNORANCE), Pomology (APPLES) , Lupinology (WOLVES) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, August 28, 2024
Museology (MUSEUMS) Encore in Memory of Ronnie Cline
A very special encore in memory of our favorite Museologist, Ronnie Cline. In this 2018 episode, we talked about the life and work of a great dude and a good pal who passed away this morning. On the agenda of his legendary episode: Museums! Mummies! Paintings! Hot dogs! Alie sits down with her dear internet friend and museologist Ronnie Cline, who manages 30,000 artifacts over 22 California State Park Museums. Get the hot gossip about behind-the-scenes museum life, vintage ghosts, following your dreams, changing the tone of history and the time Alie ruined a 16th Century Dutch portrait. Also: why Jack London is your new dead celebrity crush. More episode sources & links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: FIELD TRIP: Natural History Museum of Los Angeles , Metropolitan Tombology (PARIS CATACOMBS) , Egyptology (ANCIENT EGYPT) , Anthropodermic Biocodicology (HUMAN LEATHER BOOKS) , Deltiology (POSTCARDS) , Hematology (BLOOD) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Steven Ray Morris, Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions , and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, August 21, 2024
Speleology (CAVES) with Gina Moseley
Caves! Caverns! Grottos! Crystals! Let's get down and dirty with Speleology with explorer, researcher, professor, and paleoclimatologist Dr. Gina Moseley. She shares what it’s like to spend a week straight in a cave, safety tips, climate research breakthroughs, and the deepest and darkest caves. Also: stalactites, stalagmites, cave clouds, show caves, who counts as a spelunker, what ancient climate science can tell us about our current sticky situation, cave diving, cave rescues, creepy caves, gated caves, old school versus new school cave mapping, if cavers ever lose their damn minds down there, and why nothing beats the longing for the underground. Grab a friend and wear a helmet. We’re goin’ in. Follow Dr. Gina Moseley on GoogleScholar A donation went to the British Cave Rescue Council More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Chiropterology (BATS) , Indigenous Pedology (SOIL SCIENCE) , Geology (ROCKS) , Disasterology (DISASTERS) , Metropolitan Tombology (PARIS CATACOMBS) , Fearology (FEAR) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, August 14, 2024
Misophonology (DISTRACTING SOUND & NOISE RAGE) with Jane Gregory
Forks on teeth. Lip smacking. Metal on metal. (Don’t worry, there are no sonic examples of triggers in this episode!) Why do some of us haaaate certain noises and other folks cannot comprehend how a sound could be so irritating? Let’s meet in the middle with a professional Misophonologist, clinical psychologist, and Oxford University research fellow Dr. Jane Gregory. Dr. Gregory not only has misophonia, but has propelled research and public awareness of the condition. We lob so many questions to learn: what it feels like to have it, how many people experience it, the most common sounds that trigger it, what your brain thinks is happening, why certain people or situations may be worse than others, how to be helpful to people with misophonia, headphones, earplugs, exposure therapies, cognitive behavior therapy, experimenting on oneself, age and misophonia, and where zombies fit into it. Visit Dr. Jane Gregory’s website and follow her on Instagram and X Get her book, Sounds Like Misophonia: How to Stop Small Noises from Causing Extreme Reactions on Bookshop.org or Amazon Read her papers on ResearchGate A donation went to soQuiet 2024 #WorldLizardDay Programming with Dr. Earyn McGee More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Etymology (WORD ORIGINS) , Disgustology (REPULSION TO GROSS STUFF) , Neuroparisitology (NATURE ZOMBIES) , Food Anthropology (FEASTS) , Disability Sociology (DISABILITY PRIDE) , Screamology (LOUD VOCALIZATIONS) , Dolorology (PAIN) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes <a href="https://www.patreon
Wed, August 07, 2024
Funology (YES, FUN) with Catherine Price
What exactly is “fun?” How will you know when you’re having it? Do introverts have special alone fun? Is it okay to seek fun in bleak times? Catherine Price is an award-winning journalist and author who spent years researching the science of fun for her book “The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again.” She let me lob many questions at her including: adult vs. childhood fun, what’s the difference between happiness and laughter and fun, what does fun do to your actual meat body, how can you have more of it, do substances mean more fun, and how to have fun when the world is crumbling in cinders around you – and why it’s important that you do. It’s a fun one, I promise. Visit Catherine’s website and follow her on Instagram and X Read her book: The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again Subscribe to her Substack newsletter, How to Feel Alive with Catherine Price A donation went to Breakthrough T1D More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) , Gelotology (LAUGHTER) , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Addictionology (ADDICTION) , Felinology (CATS) , Genocidology (CRIMES OF ATROCITY) , Ludology (VIDEO GAMES), Quasithanatology (NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCES) , Psychedeliology (HALLUCINOGENS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X
Wed, July 31, 2024
Neuroendocrinology (SEX & GENDER) Mega Encore with Daniel Pfau
It’s an updated mega-encore of one of my favorite episodes — with 2024 research — to learn: How many genders are there? How do you know if you’re queer? Is sexual orientation biological, and if so, how? The amazing neuroscientist and endocrinology researcher Dr. Daniel Pfau joins to share their path in academia finding the perfect research, understanding their own genderqueer identity, what animals in nature exhibit queer behavior, how hormones affect our moods, the variation of gender expression, queer lizards, how a strict gender binary is harmful to entire populations, hormone replacement therapy, hormones in sports, gender dysphoria, additional info on the Gender Unicorn and more. They are just charming and kind and wonderful and this episode will help you understand just how many ways there are to be human. I’m off in the woods this week for a wedding, and I can’t think of a better occasion to revisit this one. Follow Dr. Daniel Pfau at Twitter.com/endokweer A donation went to MarshaP.org More links at alieward.com/ologies/NeuroendocrinologyEncore Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy are up at Pride Month: Guests to Know and Love Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media , Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, July 24, 2024
Ambystomology (AXOLOTLS… AND LIMB REGROWTH?) with Jessica Whited
Feathery gills! Adorable smiles! Cultural icons! Habitat ecology! And superhuman limb regeneration? It’s an entire episode on axolotls. You either love these aquatic salamanders, or you’ve never heard of them. Clap your tiny slimy hands for Ambystomologist Dr. Jessica Whited of Harvard Medical School’s Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology who raises and studies these beautiful creatures — including the biomedical marvels being discovered. Also discussed: their narrow niche, the ecology movement to save them from wild endangerment, pet care ethics, color morphs, green glowing genetically modified ones and so much more. And of course: Minecraft. Follow Jessica on Instagram Visit the Whited Lab and browse Dr. Whited’s papers on ResearchGate Pre-order her children’s book: Axolotl (Young Zoologist): A First Field Guide to the Amphibian That Never Grows Up (October 1, 2024) A donation went to ADOPTAXOLTL via Instituto de Biologia de la UNAM More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Stem Cell Biology (CELLS MAKING CELLS) , Molecular Biology (PROTEINS) , Evolutionary Biology (DARWINISM) , Bufology (TOADS) , Dipterology (FLIES) , Diplopodology (MILLIPEDES & CENTIPEDES) , Planariology (VERY COOL WORMS, I PROMISE) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and <a href="https://twitter.com/ologies" target="_blan
Wed, July 17, 2024
Psychedeliology (HALLUCINOGENS) Part 2 with Charles Grob
Part 2 is here! It’s wall to wall listener questions about magic mushrooms, LSD, ayahuasca ceremonies, set and setting, how mushrooms go stale, decriminalization, strains and potencies, placebos, the “Stoned Ape Theory,” neurodivergence, tripping in an MRI, recent F.D.A. hearings, astrophysics and psychedelics, and how to be a good trip sitter with a professor of psychiatry at the UCLA School of Medicine and co-editor of the Handbook of Medical Hallucinogens , Dr. Charlie Grob. Also: the safest way to take psychedelics, what is reality, avoiding barfing and at the very end, my own first-person ramble about following clinical guidelines for a big trip. In Oregon. A donation was made to Human Rights Watch More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Oneirology (DREAMS) , Mycology (MUSHROOMS) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Quasithanatology (NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCES) , Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) , Thanatology (DEATH & DYING) , Radiology (X-RAY VISION) , Scotohylology (DARK MATTER) , Futurology (THE FUTURE) , Witchology (WITCHES & WITCHCRAFT) , Ethnoecology (ETHNOBOTANY) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on X and <a href="https://www.instagram
Thu, July 11, 2024
Psychedeliology (HALLUCINOGENS) Part 1 with Charles Grob
Magic mushrooms, LSD, ayahuasca ceremonies, DMT, ketamine: take a trip into the science and research of hallucinogens. Renowned psychiatry professor and psychedelics researcher Dr. Charles Grob of Harbor-UCLA Medical Center sits down to talk about ethnobotanical origins of psychedelics, how much LSD is too much LSD, what juices are squirting in the brain when you're tripping out, who should NOT take psychedelics, talking to dead people, antidepressants and mushrooms, the murky history of psychedelic research, and future paths of study that may help the world. Next week, wall-to-wall listener questions and some tales from your internet dad’s own journey. Browse Dr. Grob’s publications on ResearchGate Buy his book, Hallucinogens: A Reader A donation was made to Chacruna Institute for Psychedelic Plant Medicines More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Oneirology (DREAMS) , Mycology (FUNGI) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Quasithanatology (NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCES) , Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) , Thanatology (DEATH & DYING) , Radiology (X-RAY VISION) , Scotohylology (DARK MATTER) , Futurology (THE FUTURE) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on X and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on X and Instagram Editing by Me
Wed, July 03, 2024
Disability Sociology (DISABILITY PRIDE) with Guinevere Chambers
Sexuality and disability! Invisible illnesses! Airline frustrations! How many of us are disabled! July is Disability Pride Month, and professor, researcher, activist, and Disability Sociologist Guinevere Chambers joins to bust myths and provide perspective on everything from the history of ableism to sign language to eyeglasses, the criminal justice system, caregiving, how to ask for what you need, handling curious strangers, disclosing disabilities, where ADHD and autism come into play, and how to follow this study path. Follow Guinevere Chambers on Instagram , LinkedIn and YouTube A donation was made to HEARD (Helping Educate to Advance the Rights of the Deaf) and The Trevor Project More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , LIFE ADVICE: For anyone who is tired & needs some hacks , Traumatology (PTSD) , Addictionology (ADDICTION) , Fearology (FEAR) , Systems Biology (MEDICAL MATHEMATICS) , Virology (COVID-19) , Carobology (NOT-CHOCOLATE TREES) , Dolorology (PAIN) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on X and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on X and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: S
Thu, June 27, 2024
Puffinology (PUFFINS) with Jill Taylor
What exactly IS a puffin? Who are they related to? Are they disco birds? WHY are they so cute? Should you kiss one? Throw one? Are they in danger? Get up in a blanket burrow and listen to field researcher and legit Puffinologist, Jillian Taylor, give us all the details on who eats them, if they are neat freaks or not, their surprising life expectancy, and how they make their long marriages work. Also: the toilets with the best views, Star Wars trivia, a cereal lore, and who should NOT become a puffinologist. Follow Jill on Instagram and TikTok A donation was made to CPAWS Newfoundland and Labrador More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Ornithology (BIRDS) , Penguinology (PENGUINS) , Oceanology (OCEANS) , Oology (EGGS) , Pelicanology (PELICANS) , Island Ecology (ISLANDS) , Ophthalmology (EYES) , Lutrinology (OTTERS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, June 19, 2024
Andragogology (300TH EPISODE SPECIAL) with Alie Ward
Boy howdy hot dang, Ologies has hit its 300th new episode! In celebration of this milestone, we’ve turned the tables and lead editor Mercedes Maitland hosts this episode with special guest… Alie Ward! We talk about Alie’s twists and turns finding her way into a career in science communication, selling art to child actors in LA, how she built Ologies from a small indie podcast into a chart-topping favorite, why it’s important to give adults a fun space in SciComm, putting yourself out there, how fear can kill curiosity, what it takes to be a science communicator and so much more. Buckle in for Mercedes’ debut as a host and find out whether she can be trusted to carry this beloved Fabergé egg we know as Ologies. Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Find @Alie_ologies on TikTok A donation went to TheScienceHaven.org More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Pedagogology (SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) , Tiktokology (THE TIKTOK APP) , Alieology (YOUR HOST) , FIELD TRIP: How to Change Your Life via the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Volitional Psychology (PROCRASTINATION) , Agnotology (IGNORANCE) , Fearology (FEAR) , Victimology (CRIME VICTIMS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Hosted by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Editing by Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcript
Wed, June 12, 2024
Culicidology (MOSQUITOES) Part 2 with Fhallon Ware-Gilmore
Part 2 of mosquitoes is here! Now that you know WHY they would like to eat you mosquito expert and Culicidologist, Dr. Fhallon Ware-Gilmore of the CDC gives us SOLUTIONS. How do we avoid bites? Why do they itch so much? Which repellents are safe for whom? What should you use in your yard? Does climate change mean an ongoing hellscape thick with mosquitos? Could Jurassic Park happen? What if mosquitoes were to, say… go extinct? Also: how do we learn to love these things that vex us? Follow Dr. Ware-Gilmore on Google Scholar and X Dr. Ware-Gilmore trained at the McGrawLab A donation went to Malaria No More More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Dolorology (PAIN) , Entomology (INSECTS) , Dipterology (FLIES) , Acaropathology (TICKS & LYME DISEASE) , Spheksology (WASPS) , Melittology (BEES) , Native Melittology (INDIGENOUS BEES) , Environmental Toxicology (POISONS) , Neuroendocrinology (SEX & GENDER) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by <a href="https://www.kellyrdwyer.com/photo" target="_blank
Wed, June 05, 2024
Culicidology (MOSQUITOES) Part 1 with Fhallon Ware-Gilmore
They’re gorgeous. They’re picky moms, and tremendous flirts. They are sparkly. And they drink blood. We hopped on the line with mosquito researcher, medical entomologist, CDC Epidemic Intelligence Service officers, and Culicidologist, Dr. Fhallon Ware-Gilmore to chat about mozzies. Why do skeeters bite you, specifically? Which ones should we watch out for? Why do they make high-pitched sounds? WHAT DO THEIR HELL MOUTHS LOOK LIKE? And how can I learn to love them? But also, how can I keep them away from me? Scream in your date's face and drink blood, if you’re a mosquito, because things are about to heat up. Next week: we’ll cover diseases and repellents, just for you. Follow Dr. Ware-Gilmore on Google Scholar and X Dr. Ware-Gilmore trained at the McGrawLab A donation went to Malaria No More More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Entomology (INSECTS) , Dipterology (FLIES) , Acaropathology (TICKS & LYME DISEASE) , Spheksology (WASPS) , Melittology (BEES) , Native Melittology (INDIGENOUS BEES) , Environmental Toxicology (POISONS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Ke
Wed, May 29, 2024
Anagnosology (READING) with Adrian Johns
Clay tablets! Printing presses! Old timey audio books! Speed reading strategies! Attention spans! Dyslexia history! Literacy campaigns! Dr. Adrian Johns is an historian, professor, and author of the book “The Science of Reading” and we have a nice mellow chat about when humans started to “read,” what that means, being Hooked on Phonics, Dick, Jane, character languages, audiobooks, e-readers, school segregation, literacy rates, and how long we can focus at a time. He literally wrote the book on it. Visit Dr. Adrian Johns’ faculty bio at University of Chicago Shop Dr. Johns’ books including The Science of Reading: Information, Media, and Mind in Modern America (2023) and The Nature of the Book: Print and Knowledge in the Making (1998) A donation went to 826LA.org and Glioblastoma Research Organization More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Anthropodermic Biocodicology (HUMAN LEATHER BOOKS) , Egyptology (ANCIENT EGYPT) , Curiology (EMOJI) , Attention Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Witchology (WITCHES & WITCHCRAFT) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Abstract Mathemetology (UH, IS MATH REAL?) , Pedagogology (SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) with Bill Nye Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/alieward" targe
Wed, May 22, 2024
Mantodeology (PRAYING MANTISES) with Lohitashwa Garikipati
Pointy heads. Spiked arms. Tragic romance. It’s a whole episode about praying mantises with a real life Mantodeologist, Lohit Garikipati. Do they really eat hummingbirds? Are they endangered? Invasive? Smart? Extraterrestrial? Get your fill of mantid mythology, evolutionary gossip, sexual cannibalism, mantis motherhood, their alien egg cases, huge eyes, pet advice, and why they can show you the way to hell with this delightful entomologist, UC Davis entomology graduate and longtime keeper of mantids. You’ll lose your mind, but not your head. Follow Lohit on Instagram and iNaturalist A donation went to the World Wildlife Fund More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Entomology (INSECTS) , Spheksology (WASPS) , Melittology (BEES) , Native Melittology (INDIGENOUS BEES) , Myrmecology (ANTS) , Etymology (WORD ORIGINS) , Mythology (STORYTELLING) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick
Thu, May 16, 2024
Minisode: Some Small/Smol Announcements
A short little episode to tell you about a change we're making to Ologies that I am genuinely very pumped about, as well as some weird secrets I did not intend to tell. But my point is that you can now have a kid-safe show and feed that is safe for kids and classrooms and a road trip with your shy parents. Subscribe to Smologies on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Overcast , Pocket Casts , Castbox , Podcast Addict , or wherever you get podcasts. Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions , Jacob Chaffee, and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, May 08, 2024
Genocidology (CRIMES OF ATROCITY) with Dirk Moses
The world is confusing, but there are experts in everything. In our least funny episode ever, we thankfully convinced a global expert, professor, researcher, author, and Genocidologist (it’s a real word) Dr. Dirk Moses to answer the questions that we may secretly have: What exactly is genocide? How long has it been happening? Is it a war crime? Is it a crime of atrocity? Who makes up humanitarian law? What's self-defense — and what's offense? How is it litigated? Whose business is it? Why do we do this to each other? What can be done? It’s a dense, long episode with lots of asides for history and context, but it might be just what you need to give you perspective on the conditions — and cycles of trauma — that can lead to crimes of atrocities. Follow Dr. Dirk Moses on X Read his book, “ The Problems of Genocide: Permanent Security and the Language of Transgression ” A donation went to student tuition at City College of New York More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Agnotology (IGNORANCE), Genealogy (FAMILY TREES) , Nomology (THE CONSTITUTION) , Indigenous Fire Ecology (GOOD FIRE), Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE FOODS), Indigenous Pedology (SOIL SCIENCE), Ethnoecology (ETHNOBOTANY/NATIVE PLANTS), Bryology (MOSS), Black American Magirology (FOOD, RACE & CULTURE), Bisonology (BISON) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editi
Mon, May 06, 2024
Smologies #43: CICADAS with Gene Kritsky
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 They are numerous. They are patient. They are COMING for the United States in droves this spring: They are cicadas. *The* Cicada guy Dr. Gene Kritsky joins to chat all about the annual cicadas you may see every summer vs. the periodical ones that cycle through the states in broods of giant numbers. Learn how they survive underground for decades, what they are doing down there, all about their lifecycle, why some cozy up underground for 17 years while others get moving 4 years quicker, plus get inspired to take a cicada safari, download Cicada Safari , and appreciate their songs, which can be as loud as an ambulance. By the end, you’ll want to don a bug costume and take a road trip to one of the 18 states expecting a periodical emergence this spring! Dr. Gene Kritsky’s new cicada book A Tale of Two Broods: The 2024 Emergence of Periodical Cicada Broods XIII and XIX Download the Cicada Safari app at the Apple Store or Google Play Store . Check out Dr. Kritsky’s website Also see CicadaMania.com , and follow them on Instagram A donation was made to Mount Saint Joseph’s cicada research in the School of Behavioral and Natural Sciences Full-length (*not* G-rated) Cicadology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on X and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on X and <a hr
Wed, May 01, 2024
Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) Encore with @BlackForager, Alexis Nikole Nelson
Mustard gossip. Knotweed recipes. Cow parsnips. Serviceberry appreciation. Hogweed warnings. Dead man’s fingers. The incredibly knowledgeable and entertaining Alexis Nikole Nelson a.k.a. @BlackForager walks us through Foraging Ecology with a ginormous bushel of tips & tricks for finding edibles at all times of the year, from blossoms to fungus. Belly up for this encore detailing invasive snacks, elusive mushrooms, magnolia cookies, mugwort potatoes, violet cocktails, foraging guides, weed trivia and tips to avoid poisonous berries. Also: finding community, history, land stewardship and why foraging is important, empowering and quite tasty. Follow Alexis @BlackForager on Instagram , TikTok , X , and Youtube A donation went to Backyard Basecamp More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Indigenous Fire Ecology (GOOD FIRE) , Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE FOODS) , Indigenous Pedology (SOIL SCIENCE) , Ethnoecology (ETHNOBOTANY/NATIVE PLANTS) , Bryology (MOSS) , Mycology (MUSHROOMS) , Cucurbitology (PUMPKINS) , Carobology (NOT-CHOCOLATE TREES) , Pomology (APPLES) , Black American Magirology (FOOD, RACE & CULTURE) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland
Wed, April 24, 2024
Columbidology (PIGEONS? YES) Part 2 with Rosemary Mosco
The thrilling conclusion of PIGEONS, with Columbidologist and author Rosemary Mosco of Bird and Moon comics. It’s wall-to-wall listener questions and you’ll hear all about bonded pairs, the fate of the extinct passenger pigeon, the best cinematic pigeons, how to help their nubby feet, gender reveals gone very wrong, Las Vegas mysteries to boil your blood, and so much more. Also: did I just see a wedding bird escapee? Visit Rosemary’s website and follow her on Instagram , TikTok , and X Browse Rosemary’s books including A Pocket Guide to Pigeon Watching: Getting to Know the World’s Most Misunderstood Bird and There Are No Ants in This Book Read Rosemary’s nature comic Bird and Moon and support on Patreon Donations went to Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue and Palomacy More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Ornithology (BIRDS) , Plumology (FEATHERS) , Chickenology (HENS & ROOSTERS) , Oology (EGGS) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) , Echinology (SEA URCHINS & SAND DOLLARS) , Egyptology (ANCIENT EGYPT) , Scatology (POOP) , FIELD TRIP: Birds of Prey and Raptor Facts Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies f
Wed, April 17, 2024
Columbidology (PIGEONS? YES) Part 1 with Rosemary Mosco
You love pigeons. You might not know it yet. Espionage! Fancy breeds! Internal GPS! Weird feet! Should you be afraid of them? Should you adopt one? Pigeon advocate, comic artist and author of “A Pocket Guide to Pigeon Watching,” Rosemary Mosco finally joins to answer all of our questions in a beautifully mellow and melodious wall-to-wall pigeon exploration. I loved every minute of making this one and if you stick around for the secret, I’ll take you behind-the-scenes. Listen, then sit on a bench and watch your new friends. Visit Rosemary’s website and follow her on Instagram , TikTok , and X Browse Rosemary’s books including A Pocket Guide to Pigeon Watching: Getting to Know the World’s Most Misunderstood Bird and There Are No Ants in This Book Read Rosemary’s nature comic Bird and Moon and support on Patreon Donations went to Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue and Palomacy More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Ornithology (BIRDS) , Plumology (FEATHERS) , Chickenology (HENS & ROOSTERS) , Oology (EGGS) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) , Egyptology (ANCIENT EGYPT) , Scatology (POOP) , FIELD TRIP: Birds of Prey and Raptor Facts Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Olog
Sat, April 13, 2024
Smologies #42: TREES with J. Casey Clapp
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Do trees have feelings? How do they talk? Which trees can you use to make syrup? Do bananas really grow on trees? Possibly the world's most enthusiastic tree expert, J. Casey Clapp, explains what makes coastal redwoods the coolest trees, how roots communicate with each other, and why a tree is like a cup of tea. Plus: bonus guest appearance by our friends (and the trees’), fungi. Visit Casey Clapp's website and follow him on Instagram Listen to his podcast, Completely Arbortrary A donation went to EcoTrust.org Full-length (*not* G-rated) Dendrology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on X and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on X and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, April 10, 2024
Field Trip: I Chased the 2024 Eclipse with Umbraphiles
Come along like a frog in my pocket for an adventure to see an eclipse. After last week’s Heliology episode on the Sun, I rushed out of state to see what the fuss was about and to witness my first ever total eclipse of the Sun. Did it go as planned? Of course not? Did it work out? You’ll have to listen. We’ve got: a rollercoaster of emotions, last-minute pivots, chats with strangers, highway scenery, hope, anxiety, awe, and tears as we see if my seven-year wait for totality pans out. A donation went to Functional Magic Check out Veritasium on YouTube Visit Dr. Teagan Wall’s website and follow her on Instagram and X Jarrett’s Webby-nominated Avatar: The Last Airbender podcast, “ Braving the Elements ” More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Heliology (THE SUN/ECLIPSES) , Selenology (THE MOON) , Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) , Meteorology (WEATHER & CLIMATE) , Nephology (CLOUDS) , FIELD TRIP: Alie’s Mystery Surgery , Disasterology (DISASTERS) , Genicular Traumatology (BAD KNEES) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Schedul
Wed, April 03, 2024
Heliology (THE SUN/ECLIPSES) with India Jackson and Michael Kirk
Sunset flimflam! Auroras! Eclipse tips! Let’s get to know the center of our solar system, the Sun, as the April 8th eclipse approaches. What is it made of? How big is it? Will it explode soon? Why can’t I stare at it? And why is it wearing sunglasses? Dr. Michael Kirk and almost-Dr. India Jackson are brilliant and charming Heliologists who have both worked with NASA’s heliophysics departments. Get to know them and also the giant hot plasma ball we revolve around. You’ll never (not look at it) the same. Follow Michael on Google Scholar Visit India’s website and follow her on Instagram , X and Google Scholar Watch NASA’s Total Solar Eclipse Live Broadcast on April 8, 2024 Donations went to Astronomers Without Borders and the Grady Memorial Hospital Health Foundation More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Selenology (THE MOON) , Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) , Meteorology (WEATHER & CLIMATE) , Nephology (CLOUDS) , Black Hole Theory Cosmology (WHAT ARE BLACK HOLES?!) , Discard Anthropology (GARBAGE) , Tiktokology (THE TIKTOK APP) , Space Archaeology (SPACE JUNK) , Aerology (MARS) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on <
Sat, March 30, 2024
Smologies #41: PELICANS with Juita Martinez
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Spine mysteries, face purses, limericks, flim flam, flags, divebombs, sibling rivalries, and more! The warm and wonderful pelicanologist Juita Martinez studies these glorious dinosaurs and shares what it’s like to hold a floofy baby sea bird, how these birds’ ecosystems are being restored, and what she loves about being in nature. Also: How much fish can they fit in there, anyway? A donation went to BackyardBasecamp.org Full-length (*not* G-rated) Pelicanology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on X and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on X and Instagram Sound editing by, and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media , Steven Ray Morris , and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, March 27, 2024
Disgustology (REPULSION TO GROSS STUFF) with Paul Rozin
Taboos. Intolerable foods. Sad songs. Sexy kinks. Candy that looks like poo. Let’s get a little gross, shall we? The foremost expert in disgust, Dr. Paul Rozin, chats about the emotions related to revulsion – and BOY HOWDY do we cover some ground. Why do some things gross us out and others don’t? Can we change that? Learn how research psychologists study disgust, from butterflies to bigotry, and from pranks to power dynamics. Maybe don’t eat lunch while you listen, but definitely tune in to learn how to conquer some fears. Browse Dr. Rozin’s publications on Google Scholar Donations went to InterAct Theatre Company and the International OCD Foundation More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Personality Psychology (PERSONALITIES) , Scatology (POOP) , Gelotology (LAUGHTER) , Gustology (TASTE) , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) Part 1 & Part 2 , Dipterology (FLIES) , Chickenology (HENS & ROOSTERS) , FIELD TRIP: Alie’s Mystery Surgery Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jake Chaffee Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek and The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song
Thu, March 21, 2024
Field Trip: Alie’s Mystery Surgery!
Where have I been? What surgery did I have? Am I going to die? I took you along for the whole wacky, sometimes scary process in hopes it might help someone and urge you all to draft up your wills and call your doctors if anything seems weird. If you think this thing has *nothing* to do with your own life, you’ll learn why it very much indeed does. Cryptic! What am I, a princess? Tune in for the journey of the last few months behind the scenes at Dadward HQ. And thank you for all of the support, for reals. Onward! More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: FIELD TRIP: My Butt, A Colonoscopy Ride-Along & How To , Gynecology (NETHER HEALTH) , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) Part 1 & Part 2 , Sports & Performance Psychology (ANXIETY & CONFIDENCE) , Traumatology (PTSD) , Dolorology (PAIN) , Urology (CROTCH PARTS) , Phallology (PENISES) , Surgical Oncology (BREAST CANCER) , Genicular Traumatology (BAD KNEES) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek and The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Mon, March 18, 2024
Smologies #40: HAIR with Valerie Horsley
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Peach fuzz. Chin hairs. Mammalian ponytails. WHY DO THEY HAPPEN. Yale researcher and associate professor Dr. Valerie Horsley stops by California to chat with Alie about the nature of hair and what it has to do with skin and nails, stem cells, how it grows, why some of us have curly hair or straight hair or thin hair or thick hair, and why we love and hate and need our hair as animals. Dr. Valerie Horsely is on Facebook The Horsely Lab at Yale Full-length (*not* G-rated) Trichology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on X and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on X and Instagram Sound editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Steven Ray Morris Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Tue, March 12, 2024
Oikology (DECLUTTERING) Encore with Jamie & Filip Hord + Joe Ferrari
Why does clutter happen? How can we get rid of it and how will it affect us psychologically if we do? Buckle up for an encore that will lift your spirits and quite possibly change your life. We all have unfolded piles of laundry, that closet we don’t want to open, a tornado of papers on our desk that seems impossible to sort through. Enter: Oikology, the science of keeping things contained. Alie hunted down world-famous professional organizers, Jamie & Filip Hord of Horderly to chat about -- FIRST OFF-- their name, plus gender and messes, when to call in a pro to help, the step-by-step process to tackle the entropy in your home and life, what do do about gifts you don’t want, what tools you might need, the KonMari method, how to overcome the emotional attachment to objects, and why decluttering becomes addictive. We also called in the big guns, research psychologist Dr. Joe Ferrari of DePaul university, to share his research on clutter, its psychological causes and effects, if the “spark joy” method works for everyone, when to call a professional organizer and how many pants is too many pants. Also: dispatches from my own front lines. This episode already changed my own life… and closet. Visit Jamie and Filip Hord’s website and follow them on Instagram , X . and YouTube Listen to Dr. Ferrari in the Volitional Psychology (PROCRASTINATION) episode and check out his book: Still Procrastinating? Donations went to Dress for Success and the Institute for Challenging Disorganization More episode sources & links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) Part 1 & Part 2 , LIFE ADVICE , Volitional Psychology (PROCRASTINATION) , Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) , Discard Anthropology (GARBAGE) ,
Tue, March 05, 2024
Functional Morphology (ANATOMY) Encore with Joy Reidenberg
Ever poked at roadkill? Watched videos of whales exploding? Drooled over a curio cabinet full of claws & bones? Peered into a jar with a pickled toad? Then this one is for you. Whether you’ve heard it before or are new to this classic ep, you’re sure to be delighted by this Ologist’s storytelling. Arguably the world's most famous comparative anatomist (and pretty-much-also functional morphologist) Dr. Joy Reidenberg pulls up a chair at Mt. Sinai Hospital to talk about her fascinating backstory, exploding whales, taxidermied chipmunks, dead toadfish, animal's weird anatomy and its function and how it might help human health. She is absolutely amazing and you will become obsessed with her work. Dr. Joy Reidenberg on X & Facebook Browse her publications on ResearchGate More episode sources & links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Evolutionary Biology (DARWINISM) , Veterinary Biology (CRITTER FIXING) , Nassology (TAXIDERMY) , Road Ecology (ROAD KILL) , Acoustic Ecology (NATURE RECORDINGS) , Procyonology (RACCOONS) , Lemurology (LEMURS) , Delphinology (DOLPHINS) , Ichthyology (FISHES) , Mammalogy (MAMMALS) , Ornithology (BIRDS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercede
Sat, March 02, 2024
Smologies #39: ANCIENT ROME with Darius Arya
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Classical Archaeologist and TV host Dr. Darius Arya is back for a smologized version of this classic episode to dish about priceless garbage piles, pottery graveyards, tomb discoveries, what's under European cities, ancient spa days, ingenious construction methods, and unlikely laundry techniques. Plus, what did ancient romans use before toilet paper - and perhaps more importantly, WHY?? Dr. Darius Arya's website , Twitter and Instagram A donation was made to AncientRomeLive.org Full-length (*not* G-rated) Classical Archaeology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Steven Ray Morris Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, February 28, 2024
Black Hole Theory Cosmology (WHAT ARE BLACK HOLES?!) Part 2 with Ronald Gamble, Jr.
Part 2! Black hole suns, black hole movies, wormholes, time travel, matter evaporation, scientists being bitches, risk-taking advice, Italy’s favorite pastry, and more await you. NASA Goddard Theoretical Astrophysicist and Black Hole Theory Cosmologist Dr. Ronald Gamble, Jr. is back for the conclusion of black hole basics and how theories get made and what’s on the (event) horizon for future astrophysicists to solve. Also: what do we do with our space anxiety?! Visit Dr. Ronald Gamble’s website and follow him on Instagram , X , and Google Scholar Donations went to TheScienceHaven.org More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Scotohylology (DARK MATTER) , Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , UFOlogy (UNEXPLAINED AERIAL PHENOMENA), Astrobiology (ALIENS) , Abstract Mathematology (UH, IS MATH REAL?) , Futurology (THE FUTURE) , Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) , Radiology (X-RAY VISION ), Invisible Photology (INVISIBILITY CLOAKS), Molecular Biology (PROTEINS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Managing Director: Susan
Wed, February 21, 2024
Black Hole Theory Cosmology (WHAT ARE BLACK HOLES?!) Part 1 with Ronald Gamble, Jr.
How big are black holes? Is time elastic? What is spacetime foam? Why is there a place called “elsewhere?” Enjoy this dazzling two-parter that starts with the absolute basics with NASA’s Goddard Theoretical Astrophysicist and Black Hole Theory Cosmologist Dr. Ronald Gamble, Jr. We talk busting of flim-flam, how do we image them, what's the most giant dense book you can buy about them, where do trad goths fit into this episode, does my dog exist, how astrophysics is like drawing, and the greatest gift he could give his mom. Also what you have in common with an annulus. Visit Dr. Ronald Gamble’s website and follow him on Instagram , X , and Google Scholar More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Scotohylology (DARK MATTER) , Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Abstract Mathematology (UH, IS MATH REAL?) , Futurology (THE FUTURE) , Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) , Radiology (X-RAY VISION ), Invisible Photology (INVISIBILITY CLOAKS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek and The Wordary Website by <a href="https://www.kellyrdwyer.com/photo
Sat, February 17, 2024
Smologies #38: CARNIVORES with Rae Wynn-Grant
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Ah, charismatic megafauna! Teeth, claws, fur, poop, hibernation, hiking, nature preserves, and living your childhood dreams with Alie’s longtime -ologist crush, Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant. The large carnivore ecologist, researcher and TV presenter tells us all about her field work, what it’s like to stuff a baby bear in your coat, carnivore microbiomes, how well carnivores can taste and smell their food (and yours), how smart the average bear really is and more. Also: Is there such thing as a vegetarian carnivore?! We love her. Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant’s website , Twitter , and Instagram Listen to Dr. Wynn-Grant’s podcast, Going Wild A donation went to Black Outside Full-length (*not* G-rated) Carnivore Ecology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, February 14, 2024
Hydrochoerology (CAPYBARAS) with Elizabeth Congdon
CAPYBARAS! Blocky faces. Chill vibes. Spa days. Finally. Hydrochoerologist, Dr. Elizabeth Congdon, leads us into the muddy pond of Rodents of Unusual Size, weird feet, pet questions, interspecies snuggles, capybara cafes, natural habitats, escaped capybara, a fossil record that will rock you, and what the Pope thinks of them. An instant classic that you’ll want to enjoy on repeat. Y’all, CAPYBARAS. I repeat: Capybaras. Read Dr. Congdon’s publications on ResearchGate A donation went to Edgewater Animal Shelter More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) , Cervidology (DEER) , Acaropathology (TICKS & LYME DISEASE) Updated Mega Encore , Scatology (POOP) , Mammalogy (MAMMALS) , Lutrinology (OTTERS) , Sciuridology (SQUIRRELS) , Mycology (MUSHROOMS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on Instagram and X Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Aveline Malek and The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, February 07, 2024
Theoretical & Creative Ecology (SCIENCE & ECOPOETRY) with Madhur Anand
Environmental models! Poetry! Scientists who are poets! Novelists who are scientists! Art + science = an actual -ology. Creative Ecologist, climate scientist, theoretical ecologist, author and celebrated poet Dr. Madhur Anand sits on a porch with me on an island to chat about storytelling, narratives in science, forest beetles, carbon stability, human motives, hip waders, technology meets nature, absurdity, identity, overcoming writer’s or scientist’s' block, and how accepting ourselves can be contagious. Forecast: you begin jotting down poems on envelopes. Visit the Anand Lab in Global Ecological Change & Sustainability and follow Dr. Anand on Google Scholar and X Buy Madhur Anand’s collections of poems A New Index for Predicting Catastrophes (2015) and Parasitic Oscillations (2022), and her book of prose This Red Line Goes Straight to Your Heart (2020) A donation went to Rare Charitable Reserve More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Pedagogology (SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) with Bill Nye , Molecular Biology + SciComm with Raven ‘the Science Maven’ Baxter, Indigenous Fire Ecology (GOOD FIRE) , Pyrotechnology (FIREMAKING) , Fire Ecology (WILDFIRES) , Oceanology Encore (THE OCEAN) , Enigmatology (WORD PUZZLES) , Syndesiology (CONNECTIONS) with James Burke Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com</a
Sat, February 03, 2024
Smologies #37: PROTEINS + DNA with Raven “The Science Maven” Baxter
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 This one’s got it all: teeny tiny cellular factories, mitochondrial relevancy, what big smelly vats of poop have to do with curing cancer, how many trips to the sun your unravelled DNA could make, and mysteries of the brain. Dr. Raven The Science Maven has a background in molecular biology and a Ph.D in Science Communication, which she puts to work while Alie generally does her best to suppress high pitched noises of excitement. Learn to appreciate your proteins and pick up some noodle analogies while you’re here. That’s so Maven! Follow Raven on Instagram and Twitter Visit Raven's website and YouTube channel A donation went to Project for Awesome Full-length (*not* G-rated) Molecular Biology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, January 31, 2024
Evolutionary Anthropology (METABOLISM) with Herman Pontzer
*Content warning up top: This episode discusses sensitive themes like diet culture, caloric intake, the psychological & physical effects of food restriction and includes many listeners’ personal experience with the term “obesity." It may be triggering for those with a history of or sensitivity to disordered eating. We also discuss the Body Mass Index, still used by medical professionals, but acknowledged by many sociologists to be rooted in structural oppression. * Let’s explore our human machinery. And talk about Brazilian butt lifts. Professor of Evolutionary Anthropology and metabolism researcher Dr. Herman Pontzer gives us the data on mitochondrial backstories, muscle mass and hormones, our expanding brains, the flaws of the Body Mass Index, humans’ relationships with nutrition, why crash dieting can change your metabolism, perspectives on sticky medical terms, isotope magic, how much exercise hunter gatherers get, carnivore diets, scales, and what to do if you're grappling with sadness. Visit the Pontzer Lab website Browse Dr. Pontzer’s papers on ResearchGate and follow him on Instagram and X Buy Dr. Pontzer’s book, Burn: New Research Blows the Lid Off How We Really Burn Calories, Stay Healthy, and Lose Weight A donation went to Hadza Fund More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Pyrotechnology (FIREMAKING) , Entomophagy Anthropology (EATING BUGS) , Kalology (BEAUTY STANDARDS) , Genicular Traumatology (BAD KNEES) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Instagram and X Follow @AlieWard on <a href="https://w
Wed, January 24, 2024
Carcinology (CRABS) Part 2 with Adam Wall
Hairy crabs! Shell swaps! Carcinization! Will we all evolve to be crabs? What’s with having one giant claw? Why would a crab stab you? Adam Wall, a carcinologist at the Natural History Museum of LA covers all of this and more in this thrilling conclusion of our two-part episode on crabs. Also: did the Little Mermaid get it right, and does Adam enjoy being interviewed? Listen to the end to find out. And if you missed Part 1, listen here . Part 1 covers: Claw hands! Beady eyes! Pinching forces that could crack your skull! The tiniest to the most hauntingly giant crabs, discovering new species, crabs that are NOT crabs, sea monkeys, hairy crabs, hermit crabs, crab dongs, crab butts, crab butters, the secret history of secret Maryland spices, Amelia Earhart rumors, giant invasive crabs in Norway, behind the scenes Hollywood crabs, and so much more. View Adam’s papers on ResearchGate Find him barely ever posting on Twitter A donation went to NHM.org ’s Marine Biodiversity Center ’s fairy shrimp research Consider a $5 or $10 birthday donation to SkypeAScientist.com More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Teuthology (SQUIDS) , Teuthological Ludology (ACTUAL SQUID GAMES) , Phallology (PENISES) , Scorpiology (SCORPIONS) , Pectinidology (SCALLOPS) , Echinology (SEA URCHINS & SAND DOLLARS) , Scatology (POOP) , Biomineralogy (SHELLS) , Oceanology (OCEANS) , Lutrinology (OTTERS) , Conotoxinology (CONE SNAIL VENOM) , Cheloniology (SEA TURTLES) , Cnidariology (CORAL) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and blee
Sat, January 20, 2024
Smologies #36: FEATHERS with Allison Shultz
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Plumage! Dance battles! Possible holographic disco birds? Natural History Museum of LA ornithology curator Dr. Allison Shultz is a professional plumologist aka feather expert. We visit the museum’s collection of rare specimens and chat about everything from fossilized dinosaur feathers to peacock tails, the fanciest roosters, quill pens, pigments, flight feathers, the blackest black birds, and why birdwatching is like seeing tiny purple raccoons zoom overhead. Birds: like Pokemon Go but weirder. Visit Dr. Allison Shultz’s website and follow her on Twitter Full-length (*not* G-rated) Plumology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Tue, January 16, 2024
Carcinology (CRABS) Part 1 with Adam Wall
Claw hands! Beady eyes! Pinching forces that could crack your skull! Gentleman, scholar, curator of the Natural History Museum’s crustacea collection and Carcinologist Adam Wall takes us on a tour of the museum’s crab bunker to discuss everything from the tiniest to the most hauntingly giant crabs, discovering new species, crabs that are NOT crabs, sea monkeys, hairy crabs, hermit crabs, crab dongs, crab butts, crab butters, the secret history of secret Maryland spices, Amelia Earhart rumors, giant invasive crabs in Norway, behind the scenes Hollywood crabs, and so much more. So dazzling and comprehensive and weird – we had to crack this episode in two. Make sure to catch next week’s. View Adam’s papers on ResearchGate Find him barely ever posting on Twitter A donation went to NHM.org ’s Marine Biodiversity Center ’s fairy shrimp research More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Pectinidology (SCALLOPS) , Echinology (SEA URCHINS & SAND DOLLARS) , Scatology (POOP) , Biomineralogy (SHELLS) , Oceanology (OCEANS) , Lutrinology (OTTERS) , Conotoxinology (CONE SNAIL VENOM) , Cheloniology (SEA TURTLES) , Cnidariology (CORAL) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Transcripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, January 09, 2024
Ethnoecology (ETHNOBOTANY/NATIVE PLANTS) with Leigh Joseph
The what, where, and who of native plants is … ethnobotany! Which is under the umbrella of Ethnoecology! The wonderful botanist Leigh Joseph shares what steered her to this field, how she includes her Squamish First Nation community in her research, and how we relate to plants – both native and invasive. She’ll chat about how to identify plants, Latin names vs. traditional names, how knowledge is passed down or silenced, the chilling history that inspired some of her work, uses for barks and berries and saps and teas, pharmaceuticals derived from Indigenous knowledge, ceremonial plants, the dos and absolutely do-nots of harvesting, skin remedies, white sage, and so much more. Also what should I put on my face? Visit Leigh Joseph’s website and follow her on Instagram Buy her book: Held by the Land: A Guide to Indigenous Plants for Wellness Shop Leigh’s plant-based beauty brand: Skwálwen Botanicals Donations went to Indigenous Climate Action and Seeding Sovereignty More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) with @BlackForager, Alexis Nikole Nelson , Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Smologies #31: INDIGENOUS COOKING , Indigenous Pedology (SOIL SCIENCE) , Bryology (MOSS) with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer , Dendrology (TREES) , Wildlife Ecology (FIELDWORK) , Urology (CROTCH PARTS) , Nephrology (KIDNEYS) , Carnivorous Phytobiology (MEAT-EATING PLANTS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, tot
Thu, January 04, 2024
Smologies #35: COMPUTER PROGRAMMING with Iddris Sandu
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 At just 22, Iddris Sandu’s life story was already legendary. This Architectural Technologist learned to program at the age of 11 and has worked with everyone from Kanye West to Nipsey Hussle to Space X. In this episode from 2020 we talk coding, holograms, what ancient flutes have to do with computers, how programming works and why it's important. The designer and entrepreneur also shares his favorite programming languages, philosophies on future technology and why we should all strive to be dynamic rather than single-minded. He’s a true inspiration and Alie shamelessly begged him for life advice. Follow Iddris on Instagram and Twitter Visit Spatial Labs , the tech company founded by Iddris Full-length (*not* G-rated) Architectural Technology episode + tons of science links More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, December 27, 2023
Alieology (YOUR HOST): an Ask-Me-Anything Goofy Hang
It’s like a whole episode of secrets. And your questions. And your podmom, Jarrett, hanging out in a guest room answering all kinds of inquiries. This week between the holidays I thought I’d take it easy and dip into the mail bag to explain my free-range childhood, the goth days, podcasting tips, favorite bugs, hair dye, yellow sweaters, episodes that have never aired, how I find my guests, how many hours each episode takes, and who our dog loves the most. Cozy up and let’s become goofy together. A donation went to Dogs Without Borders Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Field Trip: How to Change Your Life Via the Natural History Museum , LIFE ADVICE Encore: For anyone who is tired & needs some hacks , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Scotohylolgy (DARK MATTER), Quasithanatology (NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCES) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) More about Jarrett Sleeper of Mind Jam Media Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Sat, December 23, 2023
Smologies #34: PENGUINS with Tom Hart
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Do penguins have flippers or wings? What’s up with pebble gifts? Are they squishy or dense? And why why why are they so cute? We sit down with renowned penguinologist Dr. Tom Hart, a research fellow with Oxford University, to chat all about life on Antarctica, penguin cities, icy cuddle parties, ocean camouflage and how to become a flightless bird. Dr. Hart is your new favorite penguinologist. Follow Penguin Watch on Twitter Help count penguins -- for science! Donations went to PenguinWatch.org and TRASS for mangrove planting Full-length (*not* G-rated) Penguinology episode + tons of science links More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, December 20, 2023
Lemurology (LEMURS) with Lydia Greene
How did these tree-hopping furry angels evolve to be the cutest thing in the world, objectively speaking? They have saucer eyes, wet noses, chunky tails, toe claws, matriarchies, a feature film starring role, and all the mystery of 100 species spending millions of years on a remote island. Wildlife ecologist and official Lemurologist Dr. Lydia Greene finally joins me to bust flim-flam straight out of the gate and talk about Madagascar, aye-ayes, ring tailed lemurs, Zoboomafoo, evolutionary biology, hibernation, jumping, hopping, these endangered primates’ conservation, and so much more. If you thought you liked lemurs, just wait until you’re obsessed with them. Visit Dr. Lydia Greene’s website and follow her and Dr. Marina B. Blanco on Instagram @lemurscientist A donation went to the Mahaliana Labs More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Gorillaology (Gorillas) , Geology (ROCKS) , Sciuridiology (SQUIRRELS) , Dasyurology (TASMANIAN DEVILS) , Primatology (MONKEYS & APES) , Wildlife Ecology (FIELDWORK), Mammalogy (MAMMALS) , Island Ecology (ISLANDS) , Philematology (KISSING) , Procyonology (RACCOONS) , Raccoonology (PROCYONIDS) , Oppossumology (O/POSSUMS) , Ursinology (BEARS) , Scatology (POOP) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) , Phenology (SEASONS) , Conservation Technology (EARTH SAVING) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes <a href="https://www.patreon.com
Wed, December 13, 2023
Quasithanatology (NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCES) with Bruce Greyson
Tunnels of light. Unconditional love. Visions of dead aunts. And a lot of questions. What happens when you die… or almost die? GOOD QUESTION. Dr. Bruce Greyson chats about about brain activity during death, accounts from patients, out of body experiments, time dilation, the Swiss Alps, deathbed visions, accidental morgue visits, neurotransmitters, party drugs, religion vs. spirituality, and what matters most in life. As a world-renowned and respected psychiatrist and neurobiologist, he’s sought out answers for four decades and shares what we know – and don’t know – about the border of alive and unalive. Get out your phone and some scissors because it’s a real crush-texter & bang-cutter of an episode. Visit Dr. Bruce Greyson’s website and shop his book, After: A Doctor Explores What Near-Death Experiences Reveal about Life and Beyond A donation went to the International Association for Near-Death Studies More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Scotohylology (DARK MATTER) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) , Astrobiology (ALIENS) , UFOlogy (UNEXPLAINED AERIAL PHENOMENA) , Thanatology (DEATH & DYING) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer</
Mon, December 11, 2023
Smologies #33: SCORPIONS with Lauren Esposito
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Scorpions: the victims of undue shade. A handful of people on planet Earth have a PhD in scorpions and Dr. Lauren Esposito is one of them. She spills the beans on how venom works, what's up with the blacklight glow effect, how dangerous they *really* are, what all the movies get wrong, the best names for scorpions, where she's traveled to look under rocks, where a scorpion's butt is, if scorpions dance (SPOILER: YES), what good mothers they are, and how big they used to be millions of years ago. Get this one in your ears right away. Learn more about Dr. Lauren Esposito on Wikipedia and follow her on Twitter A donation went to Islands & Seas Full-length (*not* G-rated) Scorpiology episode + tons of science links More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, December 06, 2023
Syndesiology (CONNECTIONS) with James Burke
He’s the guy pointing to a NASA launch behind him, in the most legendary shot in television history. He’s a science historian and Apollo Program correspondent. He’s the creator, host, and writer of the long-running program “Connections.” He is a science communication hero to millions and a global treasure. He is James Burke, and he chats about how connected historical events are, and how connection between humans is vital. We also talk about Napoleon’s toothpick, dog pee, shipworms, writer's block, TV shoots, and his new Connections season on Curiosity Stream. Also: (surprise!) they gave me a spinoff called “Quick Connections.” Watch Connections with James Burke on Curiosity Stream and Alie’s spinoff, Quick Connections with Alie Ward Browse books by James Burke including Connections and American Connections: The Founding Fathers. Networked. A donation went to National Energy Action More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Pedagogy (SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) with Bill Nye , TikTokology (SCICOMM) with Hank Green , Molecular Biology (PROTEINS & SCICOMM) with Dr. Raven Baxter , Futurology (THE FUTURE) , Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) , Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) Encore , Astrobiology (ALIENS) , Maritime Archeology (SHIPWRECKS) , Classical Archaeology (ANCIENT ROME) , Egyptology (ANCIENT EGYPT) , Delphinology (DOLPHINS) , Mythology (STORYTELLING) , Geology (ROCKS) , Curiolog
Wed, November 29, 2023
Audiobook Mixtape 3: Gift Ideas from the Ologists’ Brains
You like Ologists. Ologists write books. You like books, so let’s dive into a new, curated sampler platter from your favorite guests’ books.. Fill your ears with dark carnivals, boney catacombs, Rocky Mountain bears and wolves, flies you should love, maggots that make you beautiful, fungus that might be evil, why you should not care what other people eat, queer dolphins, invisible moose, monkey facts, fitness/mental health tips, and how to save money at the salon. Let this melange of literary snippets serve as a refresher of favorite episodes, a teaser for ones you haven’t heard, or just a gentle nudge toward a bookshop. (Or the link below to buy online.) Links to these books (& the Ologists’ episodes) 2019’s Audiobook Mixtape 1 Episode 2021’s Audiobook Mixtape 2 Episode A donation went to 826LA.org Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Managing Director: Susan Hale Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Sat, November 25, 2023
Smologies #32: CLOUDS with Rachel Storer
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Cumulus! Lenticular! Venti sugar-free stratocumulus stratiformis translucidus undulatus! Those light and fluffy things that hang overhead weigh thousands of pounds and form under all kinds of conditions. Cloud doctor and nephologist Dr. Rachel Storer chats about why she loves clouds, the different varieties of them, what makes it rain, whether sailors delight at red skies at night, why clouds are never square and where we can find diamond rain. Visit Dr. Rachel Storer's website and follow her on Twitter A donation went to WWF's Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund Full-length (*not* G-rated) Nephology episode + tons of science links More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, November 22, 2023
Abstract Mathematology (UH, IS MATH REAL?) with Eugenia Cheng
Math wants to be friends. Let mathematician, author and Abstract Mathematologist Dr. Eugenia Cheng introduce you to a secret world: the artsy and emotional side of math. Dr. Cheng helps answer the age-old and (recently viral) question, “IS MATH REAL?” We chat about Fibonacci sequences, golden ratios, common core, loving thy neighbor, slide rules vs. calculators, imaginary numbers, the nature of zero, infinite cookies, and more. Turns out that math can change your relationships and permeate your every thought.. if you let it. Also: wtf, Barbie? Visit Dr. Eugenia Cheng’s website and follow her on Twitter Browse Dr. Cheng’s books including Is Math Real?: How Simple Questions Lead Us to Mathematics' Deepest Truths (2023) , The Joy of Abstraction: An Exploration of Math, Category Theory, and Life (2022) , and How to Bake Pi: An Edible Exploration of the Mathematics of Mathematics (2016) A donation went to Math Circles of Chicago More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Dolorology (PAIN) , Fearology (FEAR) , Egyptology (ANCIENT EGYPT) , Classical Archeology (ANCIENT ROME) , Economic Sociology (MONEY/FREAKONOMICS) , Tiktokology (THE TIKTOK APP) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram
Wed, November 15, 2023
Road Ecology (ROAD KILL) with Ben Goldfarb
Deer in headlights! Alligators in crosswalks! A possum in the oven? If you love wildlife, this is a must-listen to avoid killing critters with your car. Ben Goldfarb wrote the book on road kill and we chat about: wildlife crossings, skunk smells, moose impacts, ocelot facts, what to do if you see roadkill, how to avoid making more of it, and whether it's okay to pick up a dead thing. Ben is an award-winning science journalist with a Masters in Environmental Management from the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies and I’ve waited LITERAL YEARS to talk to him about this topic as he wrote his latest book: “Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet.” Also: flip phones, sleep hygiene, and how to ask your boss for a raise. Visit Ben Goldfarb’s website and follow him on Twitter and Instagram Shop Ben’s book, Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet (2023) , and his award-winning first read, Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter (2019) A donation went to Wildlands Network More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: P-22: The Life & Death of an L.A. Cougar , Cervidology (DEER) , Lupinology (WOLVES) , Testudinology (TORTOISES) , Opossumology (O/POSSUMS) , Neuropathology (CONCUSSIONS) , Gustology (TASTE), Scuridiology (SQUIRRELS) , Acarology (TICKS & LYME DISEASE) , Bisonology (BUFFALO) , Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE FOODS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a
Sat, November 11, 2023
Smologies #31: INDIGENOUS COOKING with Mariah Gladstone
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Dig in for a bite-sized episode about how native foods aren’t just a part of a past, but an essential and exciting aspect of the future. We talk flower bulbs, acorns, sunflower butter popcorn, frybread debates, mushroom foraging tips, corn magic, puffball mythology, decolonized diets, Instapots and – most importantly – food sovereignty with the WONDERFUL Indigikitchen cooking show host and environmental scientist Mariah Gladstone. Mariah’s website , Twitter and Instagram A donation was made to FASTBlackfeet.org Full-length (*not* G-rated) Indigenous Cuisinology episode + tons of science links More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, November 08, 2023
Garology (LONG CUTE ANCIENT PATIENT BOOPABLE NIGHTMARE FISH) Encore for GAR WEEK with Solomon David
November 6-12 is GAR WEEK! What is a gar, you ask? Picture: A long snout. Hundreds of teeth. Scales that could slice you. Should we fear it? Should we hug it? One of the world’s most passionate and knowledgeable experts on this ancient, mysterious fish joins to make you fall in love with these slimy longbois. Dr. Solomon David is affable, charming, enthusiastic and absolutely shameless when it comes to fish puns. Slip into some hip waders and jump in the muck to learn all about a creature that -- despite decades of mudslinging -- is not a gar-bage fish. Also: why gar caviar is a hella bad idea. Visit Dr. Solomon David’s website and follow him on Twitter and Instagram A donation went to Ranger Rick , part of the National Wildlife Federation More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Ichthyology (FISH) , Oceanology Encore (THE OCEAN ), Benthopelagic Nematology (DEEP SEA WORMS) , Teuthology (SQUID) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris , and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, November 01, 2023
Neuroparasitology (NATURE ZOMBIES) with Matt Simon
What’s on your mind? ZOMBIES. The planet is full of mind-controlling foes, and “Plight of the Living Dead” author Matt Simon researched deep and traveled the world to document tales of fungus-controlled zombie ants, bellies and brains full of worms, wasp bunkers, decapitated ants, brutal stings, hapless cockroaches, the attraction of light, moonlit skinny dipping, and the philosophy of where I stop and you begin. The two of us also discuss the Last of Us, of course. Visit Matt Simon’s website and follow him on Twitter Shop Matt Simon’s books including Plight of the Living Dead: What Real-Life Zombies Reveal about Our World – And Ourselves A donation went to the World Wildlife Fund More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: SPOOKTOBER episodes , Acarology (TICKS & LYME DISEASE) Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Invisible Photology (INVISIBILITY CLOAKS) , Gustology (TASTE) , Chiropterology (BATS) , Scotohylology (DARK MATTER) , Dendrology (TREES) , Mycology (MUSHROOMS) , Myrmecology (ANTS) , Felinology (CATS) , Cicadology (CICADAS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram</
Mon, October 30, 2023
Smologies #30: SPIDERWEBS with Randy Lewis
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Invisible but stronger than steel. Complex architectural marvels. Things that stick to your face. Spiderwebs are much more than just Halloween decor or something to feather dust from your corners. Spider silk expert Dr. Randy Lewis of Utah State University not only coined the word "spidroin" for the proteins comprising the many types of silk, but he is considered one of the foremost experts on the wonders of spiderwebs. Alie visits his lab and chats about how spiders weave them, what the silk is made of, and how realistic your favourite spidey superhero’s antics are. You'll never (not) see a spiderweb the same. A donation went to the Women's Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Workshop Full-length (*not* G-rated) Spidroinology episode + tons of science links More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media , and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Thu, October 26, 2023
Teratology (MONSTERS) with W. Scott Poole
Frankenstein’s Monster! Hungry ghosts! Moaning bloodsuckers! Goat draining goblins. Babadooks. Gorilla-whales. Slasher films. Body horror… and what these folk stories, films, and fandoms have to do about our hopes and fears. Also yes, you can watch monster movies as a job. Just ask the wonderfully charming and deeply informed Dr. W. Scott Poole, College of Charleston professor and author of “Monsters in America,” who teaches multiple courses on history and monster lore. We also cover: monsters on various continents, monsters as queer icons, horror vs. monsters, secret messages in monster movies, the edits that your government may not have wanted you to see, what to do if you suspect you have one under the bed, Hollywood production secrets, special effects makeup, and — as always — why we’re so horny for ghouls. Buy W. Scott Poole’s new book: Dark Carnivals: Modern Horror and the Origins of American Empire Browse more horror and pop culture books by W. Scott Poole including: Wasteland: The Great War and the Origins of Modern Horror , Monsters in America , and In the Mountains of Madness: The Life and Extraordinary Afterlife of H.P. Lovecraft Donations went to the International Rescue Committee and Pet Helpers More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: SPOOKTOBER episodes , Thanatology (DEATH & DYING) , Desairology (MORTUARY MAKE-UP) , Taphology (GRAVESITES) , Vampirology (VAMPIRES) , Fanthropology (FANDOM) , Victimology (CRIME VICTIMS) , Forest Entomology (CREEPY CRAWLIES) , Forensic Ecology (NATURE DETECTIVE) , <a href="h
Wed, October 18, 2023
Pomology (APPLES) with Susan K. Brown
Green, yellow, striped, red, shiny, russet. Tart, sweet, sour, crunchy. Big, small, wild, heirloom, cultivated. How will you like them apples? Very much, once you hear all about the fascinating backstory of how an apple got into your lunch with one of the world’s finest pomologists and geneticists, the incredibly knowledgeable and charming Dr. Susan K. Brown, a professor at Cornell University's AgriTech division. Fill your baskets with apple picking tips, genetic mash ups, taste test requirements, DNA trivia, compost treasures, maggot babies, the animal dung that changed history, how to have your own orchard, the sweet taste of science redemption, the loudest apple crunch on record, and what you’re actually tasting when you enjoy this feat of breeding. You’ll forever appreciate this everyday fruit. View Dr. Susan K. Brown’s publications on ResearchGate Visit websites for apples developed by Dr. Brown: RubyFrost and SnapDragon The Apple Lover’s Cookbook A charity will be linked soon More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: SPOOKTOBER episodes , Ciderology (DELICIOUS APPLE BEVERAGES) , Cucurbitology (PUMPKINS) , Dendrology (TREES) , Gustology (TASTE) , Benthopelagic Nematology (DEEP SEA WORMS) , Food Anthropology (FEASTS) , Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE FOODS) , Black American Magirology (FOOD, RACE & CULTURE) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and <a href="https://www.i
Sat, October 14, 2023
Smologies #29: PUMPKINS with Anne Copeland
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 PUMPKIN PUMPKIN! Not only a thing to scream while passing a patch, but also the name of the book by author and human delight Anne Copeland. Yes, she's so charmed by pumpkins that she dedicated a whole book to exploring their folklore, history, planting protocol, care, and cooking. Alie stops by her house in the rural hamlet of Yucaipa, California to chat about everything from creation myths surrounding pumpkins to the secret medicinal properties of pipitas, loving pumpkins (warts and all), and the big flimflam Anne needs the world to know about the pumpkin origin story. Also: who is Jack and why does he have a lantern? Anne Copeland's book " Pumpkin, Pumpkin: Folklore, History, Planting Hints and Good Eating " is available via Amazon Full-length (*not* G-rated) Cucurbitology episode + tons of science links More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media , Steven Ray Morris , and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, October 11, 2023
Witchology (WITCHES & WITCHCRAFT) Part 2 with Fio Gede Parma
More witches! History! Lore! Wardrobes! Movie trivia! And some advice from your elders? Part 2 is here with the wonderful, informed, and charming writer, speaker, spirit-worker, witch, and witchologist, Fio Gede Parma, who has most recently authored the book “The Witch Belongs to the World.” We chat cats, commercialization, witch trials, environmentalism, fashion, hallucinogenic tinctures, broomstick legends, sex positive witchery, celebrity witches, science history, cosmological ghost theories, and what to do if you think you might be a witch. Also: don’t call people wizards. Content warning: we do touch on some of the historical brutality suffered by those outside of dominant religions and the stigmas faced by people worshiping or observing religions that are considered fringe. Opinions and spiritual or religious beliefs are those of the guest and may conflict with yours, but we are learning about their first hand customs, culture, and lived experience. Visit Fio Gede Parma’s website and follow them on Instagram , Patreon and YouTube Browse books by Fio including The Witch Belongs to the World: A Spell of Becoming , Elements of Magic: Reclaiming Earth, Air, Fire, Water & Spirit , and Ecstatic Witchcraft: Magick, Philosophy & Trance in the Shamanic Craft A donation went to Mudgin-Gal More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: SPOOKTOBER episodes , Vampirology (VAMPIRES) , Demonology (EVIL SPIRITS) , Genealogy (FAMILY TREES) , Geology (ROCKS) , Epidemiology (DISEASES) , Neuroendocrinology (SEX & GENDER) , <a href="https://www.alieward.com/ologies/cucurbitology
Wed, October 04, 2023
Witchology (WITCHES & WITCHCRAFT) Part 1 with Fio Gede Parma
IT’S HERE. Witches. Not just a witch expert, but also a witch. Author Fio Gede Parma is a practicing witch and highly respected writer, speaker and teacher. They cover witch history, different types of witches, intersectional witchcraft, forest covens, teen movies, witch trials, witch fashion, midnight myths, lunar pratfalls, spells, cheerful nudists, awkward Uber rides and more. Also: how does one…become a witch? And just a warning: we touch on some stigmas and physical and emotional harm suffered by those observing religions considered fringe. Your own spiritual or religious beliefs are yours to keep, but the nature of some conflicts are discussed. (Science note: this specific episode of Ologies is a little different; not the norm. Unlike vampires or monsters, there are *real* witches among us and I wanted to include their voices in this deep dive of their beliefs. So you may not agree with everything they say and a lot of it can’t be qualified, but this episode is about culture, history and the ideology of a certain spiritual group. So listen with that in mind and you'll learn about religious beliefs —that you may not agree with and that science has not fully figured out or upheld — but you'll get to know the real people and lifestyles behind the tropes we’ve seen in fiction. Then the rest of Spooktober we’re back to genetics and statistics and Google scholar research papers and such. Relax, and enjoy.) Visit Fio Gede Parma’s website and follow them on Instagram , Patreon and YouTube Browse books by Fio including The Witch Belongs to the World: A Spell of Becoming , Elements of Magic: Reclaiming Earth, Air, Fire, Water & Spirit , and Ecstatic Witchcraft: Magick, Philosophy & Trance in the Shamanic Craft A donation went to Mudgin-Gal More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: SPOOKTOBER episodes , Selenology (THE MOON) ,
Sat, September 30, 2023
Smologies #28: AGING with Caleb Finch
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 How long can we live? How much of aging is genetics vs. environment? How old are your cells? What can we learn from the world’s oldest people? World-renowned aging expert and biogerontologist Dr. Caleb "Tuck" Finch takes a quick break from his prolific research at USC to answer Alie's sometimes basic questions about everything from molecules to Blue Zones. A donation was made to Cure Alzheimer's Fund Full-length (*not* G-rated) Biogerontology episode + tons of science links More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, September 27, 2023
Benthopelagic Nematology (DEEP SEA WORMS) with Holly Bik
Weird little mouths! Hairy skin tubes! Demon nematodes! Antarctic explorer and Nematologist Dr. Holly Bik charms us into loving deep sea (benthopelagic) worms in a way you never thought possible. We also cover tiny worm brains, the smell of Antarctic mud, first-generation Ph.Ds, the research workhorse C. Elegans , deep sea mining machines, moisturizers, submersibles and more with a worm lady who has literally traveled to the ends of the Earth to ask: what’s in that mud? We love her. Visit Dr. Holly Bik’s website and lab and follow her on Twitter , Instagram and TikTok A donation went to Earthjustice More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: SPOOKTOBER episodes , Maritime Archaeology (SHIPWRECKS) , Medusology (JELLYFISH) , Toxinology (JELLYFISH VENOM) , Vampirology (VAMPIRES) , Oceanology (OCEANS) , Planariology (VERY COOL WORMS, I PROMISE) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, September 20, 2023
Gustology (TASTE) with Gary Beauchamp
Sweet! Salty! Umami? What’s up with MSG? Why do you like your coffee black? Come down to flavortown and let’s talk tongues. Gustologist Dr. Gary Beauchamp is a chemosensory scientist and an expert in taste. We chat about tastebud flim-flam, celebrity grade hot wings, MSG research, excitotoxins, weaning off sugar, the worst soup on the market, what countries have salt restrictions, why you lost your taste with Covid, how much taste is smell, artificial sweeteners, acquiring a taste for foods, and how a sweet tooth may affect your booze consumption. Delicious facts, served up hot. Visit Dr. Gary Beauchamp’s Research and Career Highlights and ResearchGate profile Donations were made to the Monell Center and Philadelphia Young Playwrights More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) , Felinology (CATS) , Biogerontology (AGING) , Environmental Microbiology (TESTING WASTEWATER FOR DISEASES) , Glycobiology (CARBS) , Laryngology (VOICEBOXES) , Radiology (X-RAY VISION) , Indigenous Culinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) with @BlackForager, Alexis Nikole Nelson , Black American Magirology (FOOD, RACE & CULTURE) , Gastroegyptology (BREAD BAKING) , Entomophagy Anthropology (EATING BUGS) , Mixology (COCKTAILS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ologies
Tue, September 12, 2023
Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) Part 2 Encore with Katie Mack
Dr. Mack returns with a new introduction and updates on… listener questions! The universe, dimensions, asteroid bags and cosmic vertigo with the amazing Astro Katie, AKA Dr. Katie Mack. Part 1 was a primer on all things cosmological, from particle physics to black holes, so listen to that first then hop to this episode to get all your questions answered. Visit Dr. Mack’s website and follow her on Instagram , Twitter , YouTube and TikTok Buy Dr. Mack's new book: The End of Everything (Astrophysically Speaking) More episode sources & links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Steven Ray Morris and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Fri, September 08, 2023
Smologies #27: MARS with Jennifer Buz
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 The Red Planet. A mysterious dusty orb millions of miles away. Our emergency escape bunker. Alie sits down with Dr. Jennifer Buz to talk about what Mars’s DEEEEAL is, why we send rovers there, the poetry of the moon Phobos, Martian sunsets and whether we could landscape Mars to look like a golf course. Jennifer is maybe the chillest areologist on this planet and an absolute gem. You're going to want to look at Dr. Jennifer Buz's website JNNFR.BZ Info on the 2020 rover workshop via JPL Full-length (*not* G-rated) 2-part Areology episodes + tons of science links More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, stickers, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Tue, September 05, 2023
Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) Part 1 Encore with Katie Mack
Stars. Black holes. THE GAWDANG UNIVERSE. Astrophysicist and cosmologist Dr. Katie Mack (@astrokatie) re-introduces us to this 2017 episode along with some bonus updates on astrophysics, her career, and the book she’s published since we last heard from her. Katie also tells us her most embarrassing moments as a cosmologist, debunks some physicist myths and gives us the nuts + bolts of everything form particle physics to gravitational waves and existential mysteries. Walk away with cocktail party comprehension of everything from the itty-bitty quarks that make you to the neutron stars banging together across the cosmos. More than anything, get perspective about your life on this, our little pale blue dot. Visit Dr. Mack’s website and follow her on Instagram , Twitter , YouTube and TikTok Buy Dr. Mack's new book: The End of Everything (Astrophysically Speaking) More episode sources & links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Steven Ray Morris and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, August 29, 2023
LIFE ADVICE Encore: For anyone who is tired & needs some hacks
Alie takes a teeny tiny break from her vacation to reintroduce you to this laid back, super helpful fan favorite episode. Listen in for: Pomodoro timers! Bullet journals! Apps, tips, tricks and philosophies. Also: the most mellow episode ever, recorded late at night in a guest room. Like a cozy duvet of wisdom, this one is full of life hacks for remaining productive & healthy during distracting times. I asked Ologites their best strategies for keeping their brains less burdened and organizing everything from schedules to leftovers to sock drawers. In quick 5 chapters: Your Hot Bod Needs This Home is Where the Hard Is Wrestling with Father Time Tricking Your Brain to Trick Your Brain Emo Stuff Whether you’re neurotypical or not, this follow up to the ADHD series is a catalogue of strategies to make future you happier. More episode links and resources Donations went to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and International Myeloma Foundation Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Fri, August 25, 2023
Smologies #26: POOP with Rachel Santymire
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Yep. Here it is. A kid-friendly episode on… poop. Camel poop. Rhino poop. Dog poop. Cat poop. Your poop. The charming and informative Dr. Rachel Santymire -- aka Dr. Poop -- has a background in animal physiology and endocrinology and is elbow deep in dung as a research director at the Lincoln Park Zoo. Dr. Poop sits down with Alie to talk turds and why some critters like to chow down on their own (or others’), the stinkiest poopers, good smelling poop, how getting curious about poop can help save a species, and why the Lincoln Park Zoo has 17 freezers full of dookie. You’re welcome. A donation went to Lincoln Park Zoo Full-length (*not* G-rated) Scatology episode + tons of science links More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Tue, August 22, 2023
Etymology (WORD ORIGINS) Encore with Helen Zaltzman
The brilliant and dazzling Helen Zaltzman pops in with some new asides in this encore episode of Ologies. Helen, host of the podcasts The Allusionist, Veronica Mars Investigations and Answer Me This, and a person who technically for a living researches the origins of language and thus is an etymologist, visits Alie's apartment to chat about various word origins, gender in language, the Bible a.k.a. The Oxford English Dictionary, origins of the filthiest slang, emoji decoding, mediocrity, step parents, babies wearing glasses, Greek kimonos, the romance of languages and the fundamental truth that language is always changing whether you want it to or not. Also tomatoes, pliable boobs, avocados, and fish trails. Follow Helen on Twitter & Instagram Listen to episodes of The Allusionist mentioned in the show: No Title and Sorry This week's donation was made to POPS the Club More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media , Steven Ray Morris and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, August 15, 2023
Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) Part 2 Encore with Mike Natter
Wrapping up our Diabetology 2 parter encore, diabetic diabetologist and wonderful person Dr. Mike Natter, MD is back with a little introduction covering some stuff that wasn't on the radar back in 2019, like what's the deal with this Ozempic stuff you've heard about, and then Natter from the past goes on to answer all of your questions about blood sugar, the cost of insulin, pancreas transplants, keto, glucagon, how exercise can save your life, his most meaningful interactions with patients, pudding theft, and the best place to cry at work. Also: why you should always keep frosting in your purse. This episode is swear-free and okay for all ages, and a bleeped version of Diabetology Part 1 can be found at this link . Follow Dr. Mike Natter on Instagram and Twitter A donation went to JDRF More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, August 10, 2023
Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) Part 1 Encore with Mike Natter
Dr. Mike Natter hosts this encore episode of Ologies (hosted by Alie Ward), it's a classic 2 parter: Diabetology about the happy, moody-, sweaty-, unconscious-, and possibly even homicidal-making sugar in our blood. In this episode, Dr. Mike Natter dishes about how blood sugar works, what insulin does, and how prevalent diabetes is in all of its various forms. Also: keto vs. vegan, hypoglycemia, cyborg organs, owl hoots, gestational diabetes, type 1 vs. type 2 and ... does Gwyneth drink her own pee? Also: the emotional side of the disease and how to help those in your life who are diabetic. Next week, the doc addresses your questions, from diets to diagnoses to infuriating insulin prices. Follow Dr. Mike Natter on Instagram and Twitter A donation went to Beyond Type 1 More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, August 10, 2023
Minisode: Dadward Takes a Break
Listen, kids... give your father a break, okay? Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Mark David Christenson Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, August 02, 2023
Neurotechnology (AI + BRAIN TECH) with Nita Farahany
Machine poets. ChatGPT fails. Neurological surveillance. Brain implants that treat depression. Is it scary? Cool? Let’s firehose some questions at Duke Law professor, neuro and bioethicist, author and TED speaker Dr. Nita Farahany. She explains the history of AI, the dawn of chatbots, what’s changed recently, the potential for good, the possible perils, how different lawmakers are stepping in, and whether or not this is scary dinner party conversation. Do you have feelings about AI and brain implants? Hopefully, and we talk about why. Buy Dr. Nita Farahany’s books: The Battle for Your Brain: Defending the Right to Think Freely in the Age of Neurotechnology (2023) and The Impact of Behavioral Sciences on Criminal Law (2009) Dr. Farahany’s 2023 TED Talk: Your right to mental privacy in the age of brain-sensing tech Follow Dr. Farahany on Instagram , TikTok and Twitter A donation was made to Human Rights Watch More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Field Trip: A Hollywood Visit to the Writers Guild Strike Line , Neuropathology (CONCUSSIONS) , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Radiology (X-RAY VISION) , Futurology (THE FUTURE) , Gizmology (ROBOTS) , Diabetology (DIABETES) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and
Wed, July 26, 2023
Sciuridology (SQUIRRELS) with Karen Munroe
Flying squirrels. Fox squirrels. Giant squirrels. Tiny ones. Grey ones. Black ones. Fluorescent ones? Alie is losing her mind talking to dream guest and Sciuridologist, Dr. Karen Munroe. This Baldwin Wallace University professor has studied squirrels for decades and addresses where they sleep, how many babies they have, if they bite each other’s junk, how they find their acorns, Marvel movies, birdfeeder drama, imported squirrels, melanistic morphs, world domination, fistfights with birders, the rarest squirrel, the best place for squirrel tourism and more. You’ll scatter hoard so many nuggets of squirrel trivia. Enjoy. Follow Dr. Karen Munroe on Instagram and Twitter Donations were made to: Letters to a Pre-Scientist and Squirrel Mapper More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Thermophysiology (BODY HEAT) , Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Dendrology (TREES) with J. Casey Clapp , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) , Fire Ecology (WILDFIRES) , Indigenous Fire Ecology (GOOD FIRE) , Fulminology (LIGHTNING) , Field Trip: Birds of Prey and Raptor Facts , Entomology (INSECTS) , Mammalogy (MAMMALS) , Carobology (NOT-CHOCOLATE TREES) , Felinology (CATS) , Chickenology (HENS & ROOSTERS) , Oreamnology (MOUNTAIN GOATS ARE NOT GOATS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagra
Thu, July 20, 2023
Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) Encore with Crystal Dilworth
Hi! I’ve been in the hospital with pneumonia! But enjoy this banger of an encore about: Serotonin! Dopamine! Norepinephrine! Neurotransmitters: what's their deal? Dr. Crystal Dilworth, aka Dr. Brain, stops by to have a spirited discussion about how chemical messengers change our moods and behaviors. We chat about depression, anxiety, what chemicals drive us to get off the couch, how antidepressants work, ADHD, addiction, the microbiome, new habits, quitting smoking, starting meditation, Oreos vs. cocaine, SSRIs vs. SNRIs, what it's like to hold a human brain in your hands and if she would donate hers to science. Also: what's up with "lizard brains?" Visit Dr. Dilworth's website Follow Dr. Dilworth on Instagram & Twitter A donation went to The Geena Davis Institute: seejane.org More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) Part 1 with Dr. Russell Barkley , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) Part 2 , LIFE ADVICE: For anyone who needs some hacks , Dolorology (PAIN), Eudemonology (HAPPINESS), Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS) Encore + 2023 Updates, FIELD TRIP: An Airport Full of Neuroscientists , Oneirology (DREAMS), Thanatology - NEW Interview (DEATH, GRIEF & MOURNING) , Neuropathology (CONCUSSIONS), Molecular Biology (PROTEINS + SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) , Awesomeology (GRATITUDE FOR LITTLE THINGS) , Oikology (DECLUTTERING) , Philematology (KISSING) , Traumatology (PTSD) , Victimology (CRIME VICTIMS), Personality Psychology (PERSONALITIES) , Somnology (SLEEP), <a href="http
Wed, July 19, 2023
Smologies #25: LIGHTNING with Chris Giesige
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 It’s a kid-friendly episode on … thunder and lightning: very, very frighteningly interesting! Wildfire researcher and lightning scientist Chris Giesige answers questions about thunderclaps and lightning flashes in a laid back way that will put him at the top of your Fulminologist list. He explains everything from clouds to positive and negative charges, the link between lightning scientists and firefighters, volcanic lightning, ice particle mosh pits, how many gigawatts in a lightning strike, and how to enjoy a storm without getting zapped. Follow Chris on Twitter and Instagram A donation went to International Relief Teams: irteams.org Full-length (*not*G-rated) Fulminology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, July 12, 2023
Curiology (EMOJI) Part 2 with Various Emoji Experts
The thrilling conclusion of all-things-emoji! Eggplants, peaches, jumping ska dudes, gray hearts, family emojis, what NOT to text your Southern Italian friends, yellow hands, red hair, the birth of the smiley face and how to celebrate World Emoji Day on July 17 with Emojipedia founder Jeremy Burge, designer Jennifer Daniel, and the world’s first emoji translator (and current Emojipedia editor-in-chief) Keith Broni. Listen to Part 1 first, of course. 📙 Emojipedia 🎉 #WorldEmojiDay 7/17/23 🍳 Emoji Kitchen Visit Jeremy Burge’s website and follow him on Instagram , Twitter and TikTok Visit Keith Broni’s blog and follow him on Twitter Subscribe to Jennifer Daniel’s Substack and follow them on Instagram , Twitter and TikTok A donation went to: Unicode More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Etymology (WORD ORIGINS) , Phonology (LINGUISTICS) , Deltiology (POSTCARDS) , Enigmatology (WORD PUZZLES) , Proptology (THEATER & FILM PROPS) , Fanthropology (FANDOM) , Screamology (LOUD VOCALIZATIONS) , Tiktokology (THE TIKTOK APP) with Hank Green , Speech Pathology (TALKING DOGS... AND PEOPLE) , Medusology (JELLYFISH) , Teuthology (SQUIDS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month<
Thu, July 06, 2023
Curiology (EMOJI) Part 1 with Various Emoji Experts
Thumbs up? Thumbs down. Skulls of joy. And so many expressions of pain and comfort. This, my babies, is the -ology that sparked this whole podcast. Curiology means “writing with pictures” but will certified emoji experts agree that they are curiologists? Listen in for behind-the-scenes drama, origin stories, stats on usage, trends and global context with Emojipedia founder Jeremy Burge, designer Jennifer Daniel, and the world’s first emoji translator (and current Emojipedia editor-in-chief) Keith Broni. And get ready to celebrate World Emoji Day on July 17. 📙 Emojipedia 🎉 #WorldEmojiDay 7/17/23 🍳 Emoji Kitchen Visit Jeremy Burge’s website and follow him on Instagram , Twitter and TikTok Visit Keith Broni’s blog and follow him on Twitter Subscribe to Jennifer Daniel’s Substack and follow them on Instagram , Twitter and TikTok A donation went to: Unicode More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Etymology (WORD ORIGINS) , Phonology (LINGUISTICS) , Deltiology (POSTCARDS) , Enigmatology (WORD PUZZLES) , Proptology (THEATER & FILM PROPS) , Fanthropology (FANDOM) , Screamology (LOUD VOCALIZATIONS) , Tiktokology (THE TIKTOK APP) with Hank Green , Speech Pathology (TALKING DOGS... AND PEOPLE) , Medusology (JELLYFISH) , Teuthology (SQUIDS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes <
Thu, June 29, 2023
Field Trip: Birds of Prey and Raptor Facts
Grab your stuff and hop in our van full of weirdos to check out Boise Idaho’s finest attraction: a 580 acre preserve of land that is absolutely flush with raptors who could eat your eyeballs. We’re back with another field trip episode, this time visiting The Peregrine Fund’s World Center For Birds of Prey in Boise, Idaho. We got a tour from Vice President of the Peregrine Fund Dr. Chris McClure to meet so many birds including California Condors, Harpy Eagles, American Kestrels, Barred Owls, Bald Eagles, and of course the Peregrine Falcon. Also: industrial sized easter eggs, puppet parents, commuting with flesh eating dinosaurs, and the sexiest hat you’ve ever seen. The World Center For Birds of Prey in Boise, Idaho Follow the center on Instagram and Twitter , Chris McLure’s Twitter A donation went to The Peregrine Fund More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: P-22: The Life & Death of an L.A. Cougar , Oology (EGGS) , Chickenology (HENS & ROOSTERS) , Wildlife Ecology (FIELDWORK) , Condorology (CONDORS & VULTURES) , Pelicanology (PELICANS) , Plumology (FEATHERS) , Ornithology (BIRDS) , FIELD TRIP: How to Change Your Life via the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles , FIELD TRIP: An Airport Full of Neuroscientists , FIELD TRIP: My Butt, a Colonoscopy Ride Along & How-To , FIELD TRIP: A Hollywood Visit to the Writers Guild Strike Line , Carnivore Ecology (LIONS, TIGERS & BEARS) , Cervidology (DEER) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes <a href="https://www.pa
Mon, June 26, 2023
Smologies #24: SHIPWRECKS with Chanelle Zaphiropoulos
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Ahoy matey, we’ve we’ve brought ye another ensmol’d episode of Ologies (which just means cleaned of filth and cut for brevity) this time on: Shipwrecks. We get to talk with maritime archaeologist and wreck nerd Chanelle Zaphiropoulos about her experiences with Shipwrecks, treasure, carbon dating, admirals worth admiring, ancient technology recovered from the depths of history, The Bermuda Triangle, and generally life as an underwater wreck detective. Follow Chanelle on Twitter and Instagram A donation went to Diving with a Purpose Full-length (*not* G-rated) Maritime Archaeology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Thu, June 22, 2023
Native Melittology (INDIGENOUS BEES) with Krystle Hickman
Honeybees get all the attention, but native bees are the underbugs to root for. Photographer, author, and National Geographic Explorer Krystle Hickman shows us the wonders of indigenous bees through her lens focused on conservation of bees and their habitats. She covers their lifecycles, tunnels, turrets, fuzzy butts, frat house cuddling, and sexual dimorphism. We also chat about taxonomic fisticuffs, bee hotels, the mustard blight, monocultures, the teeniest livestock, and how to appreciate and photograph all of the marvels you’ve been overlooking. So grab a sunhat, order her deck of native bee flashcards, fill up your water bottle, and let's stare into the bushes to meet some tiny new friends. Get Krystle Hickman’s gorgeous native bee flashcards, Native Bees of the Western United States, Volume 1 Links to Krystle’s work Follow Krystle Hickman on Instagram and Twitter A donation went to No Canyon Hills Sign the petition for No Canyon Hills More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy:, Aperiology (MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY) , Melittology (BEES) , Spheksology (WASPS) , Kinetic Salticidology (DANCING SPIDERS) , Entomology (INSECTS) , FIELD TRIP: How to Change Your Life via the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles , Delphinology (DOLPHINS) , Xylology (LUMBER) , P-22: The Life & Death of an L.A. Cougar , Chickenology (HENS & ROOSTERS) , Acaropathology (TICKS & LYME DISEASE) , Diplopodology (MILLIPEDES & CENTIPEDES), Dipterology (FLIES) , Myrmecology (ANTS) Encore , <a href="ht
Wed, June 14, 2023
Pectinidology (SCALLOPS) with Samantha Lynch
They clap. They swim. They have dozens of eyes and 2 million babies. They are scallops. Pectinidologist Dr. Samantha Lynch climbs aboard to share stories of theft on the brackish seas, gossip about scallops vs. oysters, ponderings on Disney bras, months without Rs, bay scallops, sea scallops, filter feeders, shellfish volunteering, curious baby bivalves, seagrass, red tides, and free buffets. We also check in with James Beard Award-nominated chef Miles Thompson who offers cooking tips (with a fair warning for vegetarians.) Also: a 507 year old bivalve and Alie’s TMI endocrinology odyssey. A real whopper of an episode! Follow Dr. Samantha Lynch on Instagram Follow Miles Thompson of Baby Bistro A donation went to ReClam the Bay More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Other episodes you may enjoy: Oceanology (THE OCEAN) , Biomineralogy (SHELLS) , Cnidariology (CORAL) , Echinology (SEA URCHINS & SAND DOLLARS) , Teuthology (SQUIDS) , Ichthyology (FISHES) , Delphinology (DOLPHINS) , Black American Magirology (FOOD, RACE + CULTURE) , Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Malacology (SNAILS & SLUGS) , Chickenology (HENS & ROOSTERS) , Oology (EGGS) , Environmental Toxicology (POISONS + TRAIN DERAILMENT) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on
Tue, June 13, 2023
Smologies #23: MAMMALS with Danielle N. Lee
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Here we are with the smol (shorter, cleaner, kid-friendly) version of another Ologies classic, in this case: Mammals. You’re one. Your dog is one. So are giant rats. What do we have in common? I promise you’ll find out the answer from the incredible Southern Illinois University professor, researcher, science communicator and mammalogist Dr. Danielle N. Lee as she joins us to chat about everything from nature’s parenting styles, mysteries of the platypus, how the dinosaurs affected mammal evolution, the origin of the word mom, and how we’re all in this together. Follow Dr. Danielle N. Lee on Twitter and Instagram A donation went to Science Engineering Mathematics Link Follow SEM Link on Twitter Full-length (*not* G-rated) Mammology episode + tons of science links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Thu, June 08, 2023
Fire Ecology (WILDFIRES & INDIGENOUS FIRE MANAGEMENT) Mega Encore with Gavin Jones & Amy Christianson
Once again: the world is on fire. As wildfires burn across Canada and their smoke pours down the continent, we thought it would be a good time to encore these Fire Ecology episodes. First, Dr. Gavin Jones brings the heat talking about what fire is, how hot it burns, fire trends, tinderboxes, lots and lots of forest fire flim-flam, tolerant wombats, Angelina Jolie movies, cunning pine cones, thick bark, Indigenous fire stewardship and more. Then, join co-host of the podcast Good Fire, Dr. Amy Christianson, to learn about how cultural burns and prescribed blazes can create healthy forests. She also discusses Indigenous history, collaborations between Western science & First Nations elders, Aboriginal thoughts on cultural burns, more flim-flam, evacuations, snowmelt, hunting strategies, land stewardship, happy trees, climate strategies, and the social science behind wildfire education. Also learning from Native wildfire fighters. Huge thanks to her and Matt Kristoff -- who also hosts the Your Forest Podcast -- for allowing us to use excerpts from their interview to launch Good Fire. Subscribe to both podcasts to get more ecological knowledge in your ears. CDC Advisory on Wildfire Smoke Follow Dr. Gavin Jones on Twitter Follow Dr. Amy Christianson on Twitter Donations were made to The Common Good Community Foundation and Indigenous Residential School Survivors Listen to the “Good Fire” podcast Also great: Your Forest podcast Other episodes you may like: Dendrology (TREES) , Forest Entomology (CREEPY CRAWLIES) , Xylology (LUMBER) , Pyrotechnology (CAMPFIRES) , Environmental Toxicology (POISONS + TRAIN DERAILMENT) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and <a href="https://ww
Wed, May 31, 2023
Black American Magirology (FOOD, RACE & CULTURE) with Psyche Williams-Forson
What’s the difference between Southern cooking and “soul food?” Is there a correct type of mac and cheese? And whose business is it what you eat? (Hint: no one’s). Culinary historian, scholar of African American life and culture critic Dr. Psyche Williams-Forson is a professor at University of Maryland College Park and department chair in the Department of American Studies. She also authored the books “Eating While Black: Food Shaming and Race in America” and “Building Houses out of Chicken Legs: Black Women, Food, and Power.” We chat about everything from oral traditions to “soul food” in popular culture, gendered roles in cooking, hyperlocal produce, systemic oppression and why someone would make chicken without seasoning it. On national television. Visit Dr. Psyche Williams-Torson’s website and follow her on Instagram and Twitter Buy Dr. Williams-Torson’s books: Eating While Black: Food Shaming and Race in America and Building Houses out of Chicken Legs: Black Women, Food, and Power A donation went to: Cultivate Charlottesville More episode sources and links: Other episodes you may enjoy: Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) with @BlackForager Alexis Nelson) Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Food Anthropology (FEASTS) , Bisonology (BUFFALO) , Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT) , Melaninology (SKIN/HAIR PIGMENT) , Black AF in STEM , Genealogy (FAMILY TREES), Glycobiology (CARBS) , Microbiology (GUT BIOME) , Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month
Fri, May 26, 2023
Field Trip: A Hollywood Visit to the Writers Guild Strike Line
Jump in, we’re going to the Valley to talk to cool, funny screenwriters about ... Artificial intelligence-drafted scripts! Trillion-dollar companies pretending they’re broke! Emmy-nominated writers with side hustles! Teamster bosses dropping mics! What an exciting time to gossip about Hollywood… labor unions! Listen, we all love watching our Programs and laughing, learning and loving. But things are getting WEIRD behind the scenes, and the Writers Guild of America is on strike, showing up in picket lines in front of movie and TV studios. Sometimes in costume. Sometimes with live mariachi bands. And always with the wittiest signs in showbiz, baby. I heard from the writers themselves about why this strike is so important in a rise in labor awareness all over the world. I meant for this episode to be 20 minutes long, but turns out – it’s pretty juicy. WGA On Strike A donation went to the Entertainment Community Fund and the new Choreographers Guild ( Twitter / Instagram ) More about the strikers: WGA Board Member Dailyn Rodriguez - IMDB / Instagram / Twitter Teagan Wall - IMDB / website / Instagram / Twitter WGA Negotiating Committee Member Danielle Sanchez-Witzel - IMDB / Bio / Twitter La Lista Stephen Langford - IMDB / Twitter WGA Captain Judalina Neira - IMDB / website / Instagram / Twitter Omar Ponce - IMDB / website Erica Harrell - IMDB Flaco Navaja - IMDB / Instagram / Twitter WGA Captain Jimmy Clabots - IMDB
Wed, May 17, 2023
Acaropathology (TICKS & LYME DISEASE) Updated Mega Encore with Neeta Pardanani Connally & Andrea Swei
It’s 2-for-1! Ticks AND Lyme: together in one helpful, disgusting, gossipy, empowering episode. This pair of episodes is about tiny, thirsty ticks and the diseases they spit into you is wall to wall wisdom from Dr. Neeta Pardanani Connally of the West Connecticut State University Tick Lab and Dr. Andrea Swei of SFSU’s Swei Lab cover how to remove a tick, if you should spray your yard and with what, how landscaping affects tick exposure, why Lyme Disease is spreading, the Lone Star Tick rolling into town, how to protect your pets and why the CC ruined poppyseed muffins. Also: Powassan virus, meat allergies, paralysis ticks, and twin princesses Borrelia and Babesia. Dr. Neeta Pardanani Connally and Dr. Andrea Swei will charm their way into your heart like a hypostome under your skin. Dr. Neeta Pardanani Connally’s videos , website , Twitter and Instagram Follow Dr. Andrea Swei and her lab SweiLab on Twitter Donations were made to TickEncounter , Union of Concerned Scientists , and 826 Valencia More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Opossumology (O/POSSUMS) , Scorpiology (SCORPIONS) , Epidemiology (DISEASES) , Cervidology (DEER) , Forest Entomology (CREEPY CRAWLIES) , Planariology (VERY COOL WORMS, I PROMISE , Dipterology (FLIES) , Kinetic Salticidology (DANCING SPIDERS) , Diplopodology (MILLIPEDES & CENTIPEDES) , Myrmecology (ANTS) , Sparklebuttology (FIREFLIES) , Spheksology (WASPS) , Lepidopterology (BUTTERFLIES) , Melittology (BEES) , Entomology (INSECTS) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) <a h
Wed, May 10, 2023
Invisible Photology (INVISIBILITY CLOAKS) with Greg Gbur
Invisibility cloaks. Transparent frogs. Stealth bombers. Gorilla mischief. Theoretical optical physicist and Invisible Photologist Dr. Greg Gbur joins Alie to chat about light, illusions, secret technology, science fiction inspiration, terrible camouflage, great movies, historical mishaps, and even a few great household life hacks – and why you should go read a book on your porch. Perhaps his book, Invisibility: The History and Science of How Not To Be Seen. Visit Dr. Greg Gbur’s blogs, Skulls in the Stars and Science Chamber of Horrors , and follow him on Twitter , Mastodon , Instagram and TikTok Buy Dr. Gbur’s book, Invisibility: The History and Science of How Not To Be Seen , on Bookshop.org or Amazon His 2019 book, Falling Felines and Fundamental Physics , is also available on Bookshop.org and Amazon A donation went to Doctors Without Borders More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Ophthalmology (EYES) , Malacology (SNAILS & SLUGS) , Teuthology (SQUIDS) , Cosmetology (GLAM/GROOMING) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) Parts 1 & 2 , Plumology (FEATHERS) , Medusology (JELLYFISH) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes <a href="
Wed, May 03, 2023
Stem Cell Biology (CELLS MAKING CELLS) with “Science Sam” aka Samantha Yammine
How do our bodies build our bodies? What does a stem cell look like? How do they know what to do? What diseases could stem cells cure? And why is Canada such a hot place for research? Dr. Samantha Yammine – known by many as Science Sam – is a stem cell biologist and science communicator and takes us back to the discovery of stem cells, chats ethical questions, spotting scams, cloning, gene-edited babies, helping your body heal faster and what advancements are being made, albeit by slowly growing in a dish. Visit Dr. Samantha Yammine’s website , links and follow her on Instagram , Twitter and TikTok Donations went to A Closer Look at Stem Cells and The Marsha P. Johnson Institute More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Genicular Traumatology (BAD KNEES) , Dolorology (PAIN) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Ophthalmology (EYES) , Neuropathology (CONCUSSIONS) , Bovine Neuropathology (HEADBUTTING) , Oreamnology (MOUNTAIN GOATS ARE NOT GOATS) , Malacology (SLUGS & SNAILS) , Glycobiology (CARBS) Biogerontology (AGING) , Microbiology (GUT BIOME) , Systems Biology (MEDICAL MATHEMATICS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and <a href="https://www.in
Mon, May 01, 2023
Smologies #22: REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS with David Steen
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 This shorter, kid-safe edit of the classic Herpetology episode features frilly gills, frog tornadoes, legless lizards, and reasons to appreciate snakes. Also, why you shouldn’t kiss one. Dr. David Steen is a beloved herpetologist and wildlife conservationist and his answers are full of facts and flim-flam busters. Dr. David Steen’s website , Twitter & Instagram Full-length (*not* G-rated) Herpetology episode + tons of science links A donation went to: The Alongside Wildlife Foundation Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, April 26, 2023
Delphinology Part 2 (DOLPHINS) with Justin Gregg
Wow. It gets weirder. Military dolphins, dolphins on drugs, sensory deprivation, deciphering dolphin language, the search for alien life, and more with the affable and knowledgeable Delphinologist Dr. Justin Gregg. Should you cuddle a dolphin? Can one kill you? Should you hire dolphins as midwives? Why do they follow boats? And what’s Drake got to do with it? Start with Delphinology Part 1 here , or wherever you get podcasts. Visit Dr. Justin Gregg’s website and follow him on Instagram , Twitter and TikTok Buy Dr. Gregg’s books: If Nietzsche Were A Narwhal: What Animal Intelligence Reveals About Human Stupidity , Are Dolphins Really Smart?: The Mammal Behind the Myth , and 22 Fantastical Facts About Dolphins He also has a Substack newsletter A donation went to Dolphin Communication Project More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Delphinology (DOLPHINS) Part 1 , Functional Morphology (ANATOMY) , Phonology (LINGUISTICS) , Ichthyology (FISHES) , Primatology (APES & MONKEYS) , Corvid Thanatology (CROW FUNERALS) , Biological Anthropology (SEXY APES) , Gorillaology (GORILLAS) , Selachimorphology (SHARKS) , Screamology (LOUD VOCALIZATIONS) , Laryngology (VOICEBOXES) , Speech Pathology (TALKING DOGS... AND PEOPLE) Sponsors of Ologies Tr
Wed, April 19, 2023
Delphinology Part 1 (DOLPHINS) with Justin Gregg
Giant brains! Communication mysteries! Infamous sensuality! Dolphins are here to blow your relatively tiny mind with their squeaks, clicks, cliques, history, lore, zany evolutionary path, psychedelic experiences, and so much more. Learn why some dolphins are pink, why NASA poured cash into groovy research, what it’s like to touch a dolphin, if they can learn to speak English, their mating strategies, captivity, and the researchers that made our culture obsessed with them. Also: how a screensaver can save your life. Stay tuned next week because the questions only get weirder. Visit Dr. Justin Gregg’s website and follow him on Instagram , Twitter and TikTok Buy Dr. Gregg’s books: If Nietzsche Were A Narwhal: What Animal Intelligence Reveals About Human Stupidity , Are Dolphins Really Smart?: The Mammal Behind the Myth , and 22 Fantastical Facts About Dolphins He also has a Substack newsletter Vote for us for the Webbys? Best Host and Best Science Pod A donation went to Dolphin Communication Project More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Functional Morphology (ANATOMY) , Phonology (LINGUISTICS) , Ichthyology (FISHES) , Primatology (APES & MONKEYS) , Corvid Thanatology (CROW FUNERALS) , Biological Anthropology (SEXY APES) , Gorillaology (GORILLAS) , Selachimorphology (SHARKS) , Screamology (LOUD VOCALIZATIONS) , Laryngology (V
Thu, April 13, 2023
Field Trip: My Butt, a Colonoscopy Ride Along & How-To
Come check out my butt with me! 1 in 16 people in the U.S. will have colon cancer, and 0 in 16 want to talk about getting a camera up your guts to check things out. I am one of them, but after losing loved ones to colon cancer – and staring down the barrel of my first-ever colonoscope — I recorded tips, tricks, taste tests, foggy drug hazes, bar room advice, and finally my surprising results. It may save a life. Possibly yours. Find out more about colorectal cancer here More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Urology (CROTCH PARTS) , Gynecology (NETHER HEALTH) , Phallology (PENISES) , Sexology (SEX) , Microbiology (GUT BIOME) , Nephrology (KIDNEYS) , Surgical Oncology (BREAST CANCER) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Mark David Christenson Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, April 05, 2023
Chickenology Part 2 (HENS & ROOSTERS) with Tove Danovich
We’re back for Part 2! If you missed Part 1, start there for the chicken basics and then come back for the weird stuff like chickens eating chickens, why chickens bother laying unfertilized eggs, rooster gossip, fairy eggs, nest abominations, bird grief, beak accessories, soft burbling chicken sounds, spicy chicken feed, safe corners of the internet, multicolored eggs and the big questions: SHOULD YOU GET A CHICKEN OR WHAT. We help you decide. See Tove on her 2023 book tour! Buy Tove’s book: Under the Henfluence: Inside the World of Backyard Chickens and the People Who Love Them Visit Tove’s website and follow her on Instagram and Twitter Follow Tove’s chickens on Instagram ! A donation went to Second Hen’d More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Oology Encore (EGGS) , Ornithology (BIRDS) , Pelicanology (PELICANS) , Penguinology (PENGUINS) , Procyonology (RACCOONS) , Opossumology (O/POSSUMS) , Veterinary Biology (CRITTER FIXING) , Bisonology (BUFFALO) , Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Plumology (FEATHERS) , Condorology (CONDORS & VULTURES) , Wildlife Ecology (FIELDWORK) , Felinology (CATS) , Lupinology (WOLVES) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month <a href="https
Wed, March 29, 2023
Chickenology Part 1 (HENS & ROOSTERS) with Tove Danovich
Yes, Chickenology is a real word. And we have questions. Such as: should you get a chicken?! Chicken-haver and author of “Under the Henfluence” Tove Danovich stops in to recall how her casual backyard chicken experiment turned into an obsession, a lifestyle, and then a book. We chat about junglefowl, chicken competitions, egg prices, chicken statues, bird personalities, coop logistics, avian flus, shell hues, earlobes, live chicken cams, and more on this Part 1. Stay tuned next week as we address a record-breaking number of listener questions. And watch out for leghorns. See Tove on her 2023 book tour! Buy Tove’s book: Under the Henfluence: Inside the World of Backyard Chickens and the People Who Love Them Visit Tove’s website and follow her on Instagram and Twitter Follow Tove’s chickens on Instagram A donation went to Second Hen’d More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Oology Encore (EGGS) , Ornithology (BIRDS) , Pelicanology (PELICANS) , Penguinology (PENGUINS) , Procyonology (RACCOONS) , Opossumology (O/POSSUMS) , Veterinary Biology (CRITTER FIXING) , Bisonology (BUFFALO) , Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Plumology (FEATHERS) , Condorology (CONDORS & VULTURES) , Wildlife Ecology (FIELDWORK) , Felinology (CATS) , Lupinology (WOLVES) Sponsors of Ologies Transc
Tue, March 28, 2023
Smologies #21: SLEEP with Chris Winter
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 A G-rated, kid-safe Smologies edit all about getting your Zzzzzs. Neurologist and somnologist Dr. W. Chris Winter is an expert on sleep, and since his first interview, he’s released a book called “The Rested Child” all about sleep and kiddos! So parents, kids and anybody else can dive in to learn about different sleep stages, what sleep does to the brain, insomnia, ideal bedtime conditions, brain performance and how doctors often overlook pediatric sleep disorders. You’ll learn so many facts that will help you get to dreamland. (And for the adult version, the full-length episode is linked below.) Dr. W. Chris Winter's website and sleep clinic His books: The Rested Child , The Sleep Solution Follow Dr. Winter on Twitter or Instagram or listen to his podcast Sleep Unplugged with Dr. Chris Winter Full-length (not classroom-friendly) episode + tons of science links Saatva is the exclusive sponsor of this episode! Head to Saatva.com/ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Thu, March 23, 2023
Domicology (ABANDONED BUILDINGS, RECYCLED HOUSES & GHOST TOWNS) with Rex LaMore
What’s inside that boarded up house? Should you explore an abandoned mall? A vacant factory? And how much of an old house ends up in a landfill? The founder of Domicology, Dr. Rex LaMore of Michigan State University’s Center for Community and Economic Development, is an expert on these things and answers any possible question you might have, from ghost towns to hidden house notes, arson, recycling wood, stealing metal and how to leave a better housing situation for future generations. Also: whale poltergeists. More about Dr. Rex LaMore A donation went to the Peace Education Center I’ll be at Wondercon: Friday March 24, 6pm panel More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Detroitology (DETROIT) , Discard Anthropology (GARBAGE) , Environmental Toxicology (POISONS), Xylology (LUMBER) , Maritime Archaeology (SHIPWRECKS) , Raccoonology and Procyonology (RACCOONS) , Field Trip: Natural History Museum , Classical Archaeology (ANCIENT ROME) , Metropolitan Tombology (PARIS CATACOMBS) , Deltiology (POSTCARDS) , Ferroequinology (TRAINS) , Nomology (THE CONSTITUTION) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and <a href="https://www.instagram
Tue, March 14, 2023
Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS) Encore + 2023 Updates with Katherine Hatcher
Ahh, Daylight Savings Time: does it mess up your brain? What time should you go to bed? Are you sleeping enough? Is shift work really that bad? How dark is dark enough? The wonderful and hilarious Dr. Katherine Hatcher got her PhD in hormones, sleep cycles and circadian rhythms, and helps Alie dissect her terrible sleep habits. We also chat about a tiny magical area in our brains that acts as your body's Big Ben. By the end of the episode, you'll be in footie pajamas eager to change your whole life. Follow Katherine Hatcher on Twitter A donation went to the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science at https://www.sacnas.org/ Saatva is the exclusive sponsor of this episode! Head to Saatva.com/ologies More episode sources & links at alieward.com/ologies/chronobiologyencore Wondercon: Friday March 24, 6pm panel Other episodes you may enjoy: Somnology (SLEEP) , Oneirology (DREAMING) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Sports & Performance Psychology (ANXIETY & CONFIDENCE) , Fearology (FEAR) , Thermophysiology (BODY HEAT) , Biogerontology (AGING) Transcripts & bleeped episodes Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, March 14, 2023
Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS) Encore + 2023 Updates with Katherine Hatcher
Ahh, Daylight Savings Time: does it mess up your brain? What time should you go to bed? Are you sleeping enough? Is shift work really that bad? How dark is dark enough? The wonderful and hilarious Dr. Katherine Hatcher got her PhD in hormones, sleep cycles and circadian rhythms, and helps Alie dissect her terrible sleep habits. We also chat about a tiny magical area in our brains that acts as your body's Big Ben. By the end of the episode, you'll be in footie pajamas eager to change your whole life. Follow Katherine Hatcher on Twitter A donation went to the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science at https://www.sacnas.org/ Saatva is the exclusive sponsor of this episode! Head to Saatva.com/ologies More episode sources & links at alieward.com/ologies/chronobiologyencore Wondercon: Friday March 24, 6pm panel Other episodes you may enjoy: Somnology (SLEEP) , Oneirology (DREAMING) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Sports & Performance Psychology (ANXIETY & CONFIDENCE) , Fearology (FEAR) , Thermophysiology (BODY HEAT) , Biogerontology (AGING) Transcripts & bleeped episodes Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, March 14, 2023
Smologies #20: FISHES with Chris Thacker
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Ichthyology is not easy to say, but fish are easy to love. Dr. Chris Thacker will get you so thrilled to stare into a pond or look up pictures of silvery sea serpent-looking fish friends. Hilariously charming fish expert and LA County Natural History Museum Curator of Ichthyology, Dr. Thacker took Alie to a basement full of several million jars of fish to chat about the worst fish husbands, the weirdest mating behaviors, the scariest fish, the nicest fish, the tiniest fish, how they breathe, how you can help reverse global warming, and whether you should pee in wetsuits. I love her so much and so will you. (For the adult version, the full-length episode is linked below.) Follow Dr. Chris Thacker on Twitter Full-length (not classroom-friendly) episode + tons of science links A donation went to: SeafoodWatch.org Other full-length episodes you may enjoy: Oceanology (OCEANS) , Cnidariology (CORALS) , Environmental Toxicology (POISONS) , Selachimorphology (SHARKS) , Elasmobranchology (MORE SHARK STORIES) Sponsors of Ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, March 08, 2023
Detroitology (DETROIT) with Aaron Foley
Why an episode on Detroit?! It’s got a great story. Standalone, this episode is a fascinating look at a metropolis that swelled and thrived during the auto boom, then declined, and is navigating a rocky rebirth of sorts. Aaron Foley was Detroit’s first official City Storyteller and wrote the book “How to Live In Detroit Without Being a Jackass.” I’ve wanted to have him on Ologies for five years, and we finally sat down to talk about MoTown, car culture, square pizza, $1000 houses, gentrification, urban infrastructure, underground salt mines, amusement park slides, Diana Ross, emerging rappers, and the city’s abandonment issues. Stay tuned for the March 21 Domicology episode on how buildings and neighborhoods decay, and what people – and science – can to do about it. Also, if you’re looking for a book to read, I’m loving Aaron’s debut novel, “ Boys Come First ,” which he describes as “very Black, very gay, and very Detroit.” Visit Aaron Foley’s website and follow him on Instagram , Twitter and TikTok Buy Aaron’s debut novel: Boys Come First Buy Aaron’s non-fiction books: The Detroit Neighborhood Guidebook and How to Live in Detroit Without Being a Jackass A donation went to the Detroit Justice Center More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Domicology (ABANDONED BUILDINGS — out March 21, 2023), Mythology (STORYTELLING) , Genealogy (FAMILY TREES) , Maritime Archaeology (SHIPWRECKS) , Classical Archaeology (ANCIENT ROME) , Metropolitan Tombology (PARIS CATACOMBS) , Deltiology (POSTCARDS) , Ferroequinology (TRAINS) , Nomology (THE CONSTITUTION) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) , <a href="https://www.alieward.com/ologies/
Thu, March 02, 2023
Field Trip: An Airport Full of Neuroscientists
I’m at the airport and there are hundreds of brain scientists everywhere. So I swallowed my dignity/anxiety and approached strangers about the neuroscience they do. The result is a bushel of info on cravings, sleep, consciousness, addiction, dopamine, monogamy, Ozempic, toxins in your brain and so much more with: Georgia Kirkpatrick, Isabella Montana, Dr. Marissa Co, Chancey Garrett, Noah Millman, Pique Choi, Dr. Barbara Sorg and Elizabeth Plunk. Oops, we just made a bunch of new friends. All thanks to poster tubes, a.k.a: nerdurdurs. A donation went to the Society for Neuroscience at SFN.org More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) , Environmental Toxicology (POISONS + TRAIN DERAILMENT) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) , Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS) , Somnology (SLEEP) , Traumatology (PTSD) , Addictionology (ADDICTION) , Oneirology (DREAMS) , Personality Psychology (PERSONALITIES) , Discard Anthropology (GARBAGE) , Conservation Technology (EARTH SAVING) , Forensic Ecology (NATURE DETECTIVE) , Oceanology (OCEANS) , Environmental Microbiology (TESTING WASTEWATER) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of <a href="http://maitlandaud
Wed, February 22, 2023
Environmental Toxicology (POISONS + TRAIN DERAILMENT) with Kimberly K. Garrett
Chemical spills, historical disasters, water quality, airborne toxic events, clear gasses, White Noise, dead fish, dark clouds, chemistry tests, trench coats, PFAS, phthalates, and the Ohio train derailment that plumed vinyl chloride into the skies of a small Ohio town. The lovely and informative Environmental Toxicologist Dr. Kimberly K. Garrett works at the intersection of chemical safety, public health and environmental justice — and she has cool science tattoos. Also: should I burn incense all the time? Visit Dr. Kimberly K. Garrett’s website and follow her on Twitter A donation went to Group Against Smog & Pollution (GASP) Follow GASP on Twitter More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Conservation Technology (EARTH SAVING) , Forensic Ecology (NATURE DETECTIVE) , Oceanology (OCEANS) , Meteorology (WEATHER & CLIMATE) , Melaninology (SKIN/HAIR PIGMENT) , Environmental Microbiology (TESTING WASTEWATER) , Secrets, Advice + AMA (LANTERNS, ETC.) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, February 16, 2023
Melaninology (SKIN/HAIR PIGMENT) with Tina Lasisi
Skin color! Hair texture! Biological anthropology! The incredibly informed and infectiously funny Dr. Tina Lasisi joins to chat sunscreen, ashiness, redheads, light skin, dark skin, in-between skin, beards, UVAs, UVBs, shower habits, cultural colloquialisms, vitiligo, melasma, medical math, ocher, freckles and more. Dr. Lasisi is about to become your new favorite science communication and internet friend. Also: sunscreen, people. Follow Dr. Tina Lasisi on Instagram , TikTok , and Twitter Visit Dr. Lasisi’s website A donation went to The Fieldwork Initiative More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Plumology (FEATHERS) , Nephrology (KIDNEYS) , Trichology (HAIR) , Cnidariology (CORAL) , Kalology (BEAUTY STANDARDS) , Scotohylology (DARK MATTER) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, February 08, 2023
Scotohylology (DARK MATTER) with Flip Tanedo
It’s invisible. It’s mysterious. It’s all around us – and no one knows what it is. Let’s have a fun existential crisis by pondering Dark Matter! The world’s most affable and endearing theoretical particle physicist, Dr. Flip Tanedo of UC Riverside, makes the Large Hadron Collider, Higgs bosons, and neutrinos make sense. Also: Star Trek, space ghosts, vintage insults, supernovas and more. You’ll leave with a newfound wonder and the desire to read physics journals for the secrets of life. Follow Dr. Tanedo on Twitter His website: Particle.ucr.edu Donations went to: The Point Foundation & Feeding America: Riverside & San Bernardino More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) , Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) , Futurology (THE FUTURE) , Selenology (THE MOON) , Areology (MARS) , Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) , Astrobiology (ALIENS) , UFOlogy (UNEXPLAINED AERIAL PHENOMENA) , Space Archeology (SPACE JUNK) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions , Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media , and Mark David Christenson Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, February 01, 2023
Laryngology Part 2 (VOICE BOXES) with Ronda Alexander
Part 2 is here! Pull up a seat for singing techniques, baby talk, baritones, whistle notes, stroke recovery, vibrato, Julie Andrews, crying jags, throat singing, accents and much more with your new favorite Laryngologist, Dr. Ronda Alexander. We just… we love her so much. Listen to Laryngology Part 1 here Follow Dr. Alexander on Instagram and Twitter A donation went to Myeloma.org and to the Laryngology Education Foundation Health Equity Grant via this link More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: ADHD Part 1 & Part 2 , Phonology (LINGUISTICS) , Rhinology (NOSES) , Neuroendocrinology (SEX & GENDER) , Gynecology (NETHER HEATH) , Urology (CROTCH PARTS , Phallology (PENISES) , Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) , Hematology (BLOOD) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions , Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media , and Mark David Christenson Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme son
Wed, January 25, 2023
Laryngology Part 1 (VOICE BOXES) Ronda Alexander
Voices! Singing! Anxiety busters! Breathing! The absolutely magnetic, charismatic Laryngologist and surgeon Dr. Ronda Alexander makes her long-awaited Ologies debut to chat about why we sound the way we do, hormones and voices, Elvis accents, opera singing, kid voices, turning back time vocally, coughing, sleep apnea, acid reflux, vocal fry, Mariah and more in this stellar two-parter. Come back next week when we answer so many burning questions. Follow Dr. Alexander on Instagram and Twitter A donation went to the Laryngology Education Foundation Health Equity Grant via this link More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Phonology (LINGUISTICS) , Rhinology (NOSES) , Neuroendocrinology (SEX & GENDER) , Gynecology (NETHER HEATH) , Urology (CROTCH PARTS) , , Phallology (PENISES) , Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) , Hematology (BLOOD) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions , Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media , and Mark David Christenson Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn HPV Vaccine Ditty Remix on SHORT Notice by the Extremely Talented <a href="https:/
Wed, January 18, 2023
Aperiology (MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY) Encore with Joseph Saunders
Lights! Cameras! Arachnids! And lizards and bees and beetles. Macro photography is like magic: curved glass gives an entirely new take on the world, from dust on a cricket’s brow to a curious mantid stare to the elegant symmetry of spider whiskers. Joseph Saunders is an Oklahoma-based wildlife photographer whose larger-than-life photos of bugs and reptiles will make you realize just how little we appreciate the creatures on our window sills and skittering up our porches. We talk shop about cameras, bug hunts, lenses, patience, Moth Week, BlackAFinSTEM, and also getting into nature with different mobility concerns. Alie is a shameless, rabid fan of Joseph and asked Patrons to help concoct an -ology to describe the art + science of his macro photography. Aperiology now exists to describe the tiny aperture used to keep these creatures in focus, and the huge world it opens up to us. 2023 CALENDARS ARE FOR SALE Support Joseph’s photography on Patreon Visit Joseph’s website and follow him on Instagram and Twitter A donation went to the American Chronic Pain Association For more links: alieward.com/ologies/aperiology Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, January 11, 2023
Oneirology Part 2 (DREAMS) with G. William Domhoff
Part 2 is here: Lucid dreaming! Teeth falling out! Medications and dreaming! The source of creativity! Even how to clean your brain. Dr. G. William Domhoff has studied dreams for decades and returns to answer an absolute deluge of questions with his wisdom and aplomb. By the end, you’ll know to sleep better, why it’s important, how to relax like a fish, if cheese alters your subconscious, why your dog flaps their paws during naps, and rejoice about a freshly discovered part of the brain. Ooooh, it’s an instant classic. Dr. G. William Domhoff’s book: The Neurocognitive Theory of Dreaming His website: dreambank.net This episode is wonderfully sponsored by Saatva.com/ologies Donation will be made to Worldwide Indigenous Science Network and toward dream research at UC Santa Cruz More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Somnology (SLEEP) , Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS ), Personality Psychology (PERSONALITY) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) Part 1 and Part 2 , Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) , Dendrology (TREES) , Thermophysiology (BODY HEAT) , Ursinology (BEARS) , Cicadology (CICADAS) , Opposumology (O/POSSUMS) , Chiropterology (BATS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on
Wed, January 04, 2023
Oneirology Part 1 (DREAMS) with G. William Domhoff
WHY do we dream? What do dreams mean? What parts of our brain are working after-hours? We sought out UC Santa Cruz researcher and professor Dr. G. William Domhoff, a world expert on the topic, for this dream-come-true episode. Learn about historical dream research, dream researchers collect dream reports, how neurodivergence affects dreaming, why you should set an alarm to go to bed, how remembering dreams can help solve problems, and more about REM myths! We’ll be back next week to answer all your questions and dig even deeper. Also teeth dreams: WHY. Dr. G. William Domhoff’s book: The Neurocognitive Theory of Dreaming His website: Dreamresearch.net This episode is wonderfully sponsored by Saatva.com/ologies A donation will be made toward dream research at UC Santa Cruz More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Somnology (SLEEP) , Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS ), Personality Psychology (PERSONALITY) , Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) , Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) Part 1 and Part 2 , Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jarrett Sleeper of <a href="https://www.m
Sat, December 31, 2022
Bonus Episode: Secrets, Advice + Ask-Me-Anything
It’s a weird rambling bonus episode for the lonely week between the holidays and New Years! I thought I’d serve up a mellow hang full of secrets, a retrospective of the things that kept me relatively sane this past year, life hacks, science-backed ways to improve your mood, and a jaunty Q&A from Patrons. It’s not a normal episode, but just a little hello and check-in from your internet dad. Happy 2023, kiddos. Be good to yourself. Follow Alie’s TikTok: A donation went to the Trevor Project More episode sources and links: alieward.com/ologies/bonusama " It's Okay to Be Tired " by Jarrett Sleeper Other episodes you may enjoy: Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) , Awesomeology (GRATITUDE FOR LITTLE THINGS) , Field Trip: How to Change Your Life Via the Natural History Museum , Field Trip: I Go France and Learn Weird France Stuff , Life Advice: For anyone who is tired, 100th Episode: Best Advice I’ve gotten from Ologists Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, December 29, 2022
Smologies #19: EVOLUTION with John McCormack
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Another G-rated edit of a classic! This Smologies with Dr. John McCormack of Occidental College is all about evolution, Darwinism, birds, bacteria, natural selection and how our mutations can be our greatest strengths. Also: breaking down terms like genetic drift and Linnaean taxonomy and why Charles Darwin had to face haters under his own roof. (For the adult version, the full-length episode is linked below.) Follow John McCormack on Twitter or the Moore Lab of Zoology on Instagram Full length (not classroom-friendly) episode + tons of science links here A donation went to: BirdNet.org Other full-length episodes you may enjoy: Condorology (CONDORS) , Primatology (MONKEYS & APES) , Gorillaology (GORILLAS) , Ornithology (BIRDS) Sponsors of Ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Fri, December 23, 2022
P-22: The Life & Death of an L.A. Cougar with Miguel Ordeñana & Beth Pratt
Very special episode for a very special cat. The day after the legendary Los Angeles mountain lion P-22 took his last breath, we talked with Natural History Museum wildlife biologist Miguel Ordeñana about his decade-long study of P-22 after discovering him in Griffith Park. Beth Pratt of #SaveLACougars and the National Wildlife Federation also shares how P-22 fueled her passion for saving this species from extinction — and we hear what one animal meant to millions of Angelenos. Learn all about how a cougar got into a city park, how he survived the journey from home, what he ate, how he captivated the world and how he changed the way we see urban wildlife. Also: the circumstances that led to his death this week, and the legacy he leaves. This one means a lot to us, so share it if you can. Visit Beth Pratt’s website and follow her on Instagram and Twitter Follow P-22 on Instagram Follow Miguel Ordeñana on Instagram A donation went to the National Wildlife Federation #SaveLACougars More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Felinology (CATS) , Procyonology (RACCOONS) , Raccoonology (PROCYANIDS) , Cervidology (DEER) , Field Trip: How to Change Your Life Via the Natural History Museum , Aperiology (MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/alieward" targe
Wed, December 14, 2022
Meteorology (WEATHER & CLIMATE) with Marshall Shepherd
Bomb cyclones! Polar vortices! Atmospheric rivers! And rained out barbecues. One of the world’s leading Meteorologists, Dr. Marshall Shepherd – a former NASA scientist and current Professor of Geography and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Georgia – is here to field a downpour of questions. We chat about percentages in forecasts, hail, sleet, storm chasing, heatwaves, fluid dynamics, TV weather people, climate change delayism and his favorite weather-themed movies. Also: what not to do with a weather balloon. Follow Dr. Shepherd on Twitter , Instagram or TikTok His website: http://www.drmarshallshepherd.com/ His podcast: Weather Geeks A donation went to: Institute for Sustainable Communities at sustain.org More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Fulminology (LIGHTNING) , Nephology (CLOUDS) , Snow Hydrology (SNOW/AVALANCHES) , Cryoseismology (ICEQUAKES) , Astrobiology (ALIENS) , Oceanology (OCEANS) , Phenology (FALL/SEASONS) , Spesh Ep: Drawdown Design Project Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and engineering by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by <a href="https://www.kellyrd
Tue, December 06, 2022
Enigmatology (WORD PUZZLES) with David Kwong
Crosswords! Puzzles! Wordles! Magic? Ah yes, world-renowned Enigmatologist David Kwong drops in to chat about the intersection of sleight of hand and brain games, covering everything from Scrabble strategies to how to get away with a surprise party unsuspected. Also: crosswords and dementia, how puzzles are like hot sauce, a secret group of Hollywood magicians, his most clever clues, cryptic crosswords, international slang, Wordle’s many derivatives, and how to get over your intimidation of all those empty squares. Follow David Kwong on Twitter and Instagram His website The ENIGMAS playing card deck – with puzzles! A donation went to lollipoptheater.org More episode sources and links More episodes you may enjoy: Etymology (WORD ORIGINS), Mythology (STORYTELLING), Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Mark David Christenson & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, December 01, 2022
Special Ep: Mycology (MUSHROOMS) Tom Volk Memorial Encore
In celebration of Dr. Tom Volk’s life: Mushrooms! Psilocybin! Humongous fungus! Black mold! Foraging! The incredibly charming and warm Dr. Tom Volk, world-renowned mushroom expert, welcomes Alie into his office to dive deep into the underground world of fungal enthusiasts and touch on pathogens and medicinal therapies. Dr. Volk himself was a heart transplant patient, and shared how his life had been changed since a donor saved it. Also: Alie holds his old heart in her hands. Dr. Tom Volk passed away on November 28, 2022 at the age of 63, and this encore is to celebrate his life and his life’s work with you. Dr. Tom Volk's awesome fungus website This week's donations were made to DonateLife.net and The Mycological Society of America and his beloved BlueStars.org More episode sources and links More episodes you may enjoy: Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) with Alexis Nelson aka @BlackForager, Bryology (MOSS) Encore with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer, Cycadology (RARE PLANT DRAMA) with Dr. Nathalie Nagalingum, Dendrology (TREES) with J. Casey Clapp, Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) with Dr. Crystal Dilworth Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & St
Wed, November 23, 2022
Indigenous Pedology (SOIL SCIENCE) with Lydia Jennings
Soil! Dirt! Earth. Dr. Lydia Jennings, aka Native Soil Nerd, breaks down the stuff under our feet and explains everything from mining to why soil can be different colors. Also: medicine from microbes, giving back to the land after extractive processes, collecting samples in urban rivers, elders’ ecological knowledge, planting hot Cheetos, potting soil mysteries, lung fungus, the smell of rain and why gardening makes you happy. Oh and running hundreds of miles for your science. Follow Dr. Lydia Jennings on Twitter @1NativeSoilNerd or on Instagram @llcooljennings Her website: nativesoilnerd.com Donations went to RisingHearts.org and to Lydia’s film, Will Run for Soil More episode sources and links More episodes you may enjoy: Geology (ROCKS), Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Indigenous Fire Ecology (GOOD FIRE) , Indigenous Fashionology (NATIVE CLOTHING) , Experimental Archeology (OLD TOOLS/ATLATLS) , Carnivorous Phytobiology (MEAT-EATING PLANTS) , Cycadology (RARE PLANT DRAMA) , Bisonology (BUFFALO) , Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) , Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/
Tue, November 22, 2022
Smologies #18: FEASTS with Katherine Spiers
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Kid-friendly and quick! It’s another Smologies G-rated cut of a classic episode. Loosen your belts and tuck a napkin under your chin because feasting season is here. Katherine Spiers -- journalist, food anthropologist, editor of HowtoEatLA.com and host of the culinary history podcast Smart Mouth -- lets Alie belly up for a buffet of questions about winter gatherings, Thanksgiving myths, green bean casseroles, the hazards of deep frying, holy eels and more. Follow Katherine Spiers on Twitter and Instagram Her new food review site HowToEatLA.com and podcast network TableCakes Productions Full length Food Anthropology (FEASTS) episode + links here A donation went to: Los Angeles Regional Food Bank More Smologies episodes ! Sponsors of Ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Tue, November 15, 2022
Bryology (MOSS) Encore with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer
It’s November and you need chill vibes. And Native American Heritage Month is the perfect time to encore this classic. World-renowned author, botanist, Indigenous ecology professor and bryologist Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer, author of “Gathering Moss” and “Braiding Sweetgrass,” talks about her passion for moss. Cozy up for the most beautifully doled-out information about hidden worlds, overlooked mysteries, botanical drama, forests in miniature, Native peoples’ uses for moss and philosophies about science and ecology. Dr. Kimmerer will change the way you see mosses forever, will inspire you to wear a loupe on a rope, and will soothe your soul with her beautiful voice and prose. Also bathmats, lawns and smoothies made of moss? We discuss. Follow Dr. Kimmerer on Facebook at Look for her books at independent bookstores or wherever books are sold (including Amazon): “ Braiding Sweetgrass ” and “ Gathering Moss ” Donations went to the ESF’s Center for Native Peoples and the Environment and American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Indigenous Fire Ecology (GOOD FIRE) , Indigenous Fashionology (NATIVE CLOTHING) , Experimental Archeology (OLD TOOLS/ATLATLS) , Carnivorous Phytobiology (MEAT-EATING PLANTS) , Cycadology (RARE PLANT DRAMA) , Bisonology (BUFFALO) , Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) , Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a pat
Wed, November 09, 2022
Discard Anthropology (GARBAGE) with Robin Nagle
Landfills! Treasures in the trash! Corporate conspiracies! Composting! An instantly classic conversation with the incredibly knowledgeable, frank and wonderful Dr. Robin Nagle of New York University’s Liberal Studies! She is a clinical professor, author, TED speaker and former New York City sanitation worker and truly the best person on Earth to trash talk with. We cover what you can and can’t actually recycle, sticky mustard bottles, drugs in the trash, Swedish Death Cleaning, mobsters and landfills, Bitcoin in the dump, the future of garbage and exactly how screwed we are. Enjoy. More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Oceanology (OCEANS) , Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) , Space Archaeology (SPACE JUNK) , Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT) , Futurology (THE FUTURE) , Disasterology (DISASTERS) , Ursinology (BEARS) , Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) , Conservation Technology (EARTH SAVING) , Scatology (POOP) , Agnotology (IGNORANCE) , Xylology (LUMBER) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper o
Tue, November 08, 2022
Smologies #17: FLAGS with E. Tory Laitila
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 A kid-friendly, shortened version of our classic episode on …flags! E. Tory Laitila, a textile expert who has also handled Honolulu's flag protocol, gives the skinny on the oldest flags, skull and crossbone Jolly Rogers, his favorite state flag, Scandinavian simplicity, the hardest flags to draw, who designed our modern American flag and how you too can have ... fun with flags all year round. A donation went to: Connecting to Collections via CulturalHeritage.org Full length Vexillology (FLAGS) episode + links here Sponsors of Ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Made possible by work from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly R. Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Mon, October 31, 2022
Vampirology (VAMPIRES) Part 2 with Jeff Holdeman
Start with Part 1 for all the folkloric history, superstition, and Dracula basics. And then this Part 2 has vampire finches, fang straws, vegan bloodsuckers, threshold invites, horniness, grain alcohol, garlic breath, psychic vampires and all our questions answered by Dr. Jeff Holdeman, professor and Vampirologist in Indiana University’s Slavic and East European Languages and Cultures department. Also: I think you should write a novel. Part 1: alieward.com/ologies/vampirology Donations went to Myeloma.org for blood cancer research in honor of your Grandpod, Larry Ward and NaNoWriMo.org . Go write your book. More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Our whole Spooktober 2022 catalog, Procyonology (RACOONS) , Racoonology (PROCYONIDS) , FIELD TRIP: I Go France , Taphology (GRAVESITES) , Osteology (SKELETONS/BODY FARMS) , Thanatology (DEATH & DYING) Updated Encore , Desairology (MORTUARY MAKE-UP) , Anthropodermic Biocodicology (HUMAN LEATHER BOOKS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, October 26, 2022
Vampirology (VAMPIRES) Part 1 with Jeff Holdeman
Fangs! Capes! Undead bloodlust! Are vampires soul-draining ghouls or a hot prom date? No better person to ask than Indiana University professor of Slavic and East European Languages and Cultures," Dr. Jeff Holdeman, who teaches the course “The Vampire in European and American Culture.” In Part 1, it’s a deep dive into the HISTORY. Jeff breaks down the folkloric purpose of vampire stories and how they morphed into novels and hit the silver screen. Plus: why every generation reinvents its monsters. Part 2 will dive into our modern vampire franchises and answer dozens of excellent, goofy, horny questions. A donation went to Myeloma.org for blood cancer research in honor of your Grandpod, Larry Ward More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Our whole Spooktober catalog, FIELD TRIP: I Go France , Taphology (GRAVESITES) , Osteology (SKELETONS/BODY FARMS) , Thanatology (DEATH & DYING) Updated Encore , Desairology (MORTUARY MAKE-UP) , Anthropodermic Biocodicology (HUMAN LEATHER BOOKS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by <a hre
Mon, October 24, 2022
Smologies #16: INSECTS with Lila Higgins
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 We're back with another shorter, cleaner, edition of an Ologies classic. Today it's all the way back from 2018: INSECTS, just straight up buuuugs. Quite likely Alie's favorite subject ever with an ologist who quite likely also dramatically shifted her life. That would be Lila Higgins, with passion more powerful than a Goliath Beetle's "especially large slicey mandibles." We cover a lot of ground, from dinosaur bugs to why wasps are so problematic, and even why it's totally fine to kiss a cockroach. Lila Higgins' book, 'Wild LA: Explore the Amazing Nature in and Around Los Angeles' : A donation went to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Community Science Program More Smologies episodes Full length Entomology (INSECTS) with Lila Higgins + links here Sponsors of Ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Extra help from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Thu, October 20, 2022
Metropolitan Tombology (PARIS CATACOMBS) with Erin-Marie Legacey
Let’s get spooky. Venture below Parisian streets and into the catacombs: hundreds of miles of subterranean tunnels housing millions of human skeletons, some fashioned into sculpture. Alie tracked down Dr. Erin-Marie Legacey – author of “Making Space for the Dead,” professor of French history and one of the world’s foremost experts on this eerie place. We chat about everything from miasmas to sinkholes, boggling cemetery history, smells, skulls, hidden chambers, (very) underground parties, and how we view our bodies post-life. Also: Alie takes a trip to see them herself. Dr. Legacy’s book, “Making Space for the Dead: Catacombs, Cemeteries, and the Reimagining of Paris, 1780-1830” on Bookshop.org and Amazon Catacombs tickets A donation went to: Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas More episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Taphology (GRAVESITES) , Osteology (SKELETONS/BODY FARMS) , Thanatology (DEATH & DYING) Updated Encore , FIELD TRIP: I Go France , Desairology (MORTUARY MAKE-UP) , Anthropodermic Biocodicology (HUMAN LEATHER BOOKS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram</a
Sat, October 15, 2022
FIELD TRIP: I Go France and Learn Weird French Stuff
Consider this an audio postcard from my first vacation in 13 years. I travel a lot for my other job (as a science correspondent on Innovation Nation for CBS) so I am out of practice on jet-setting for the sake of pure fun. But Jarrett’s family was headed to France so we cashed in some points and tagged along. Join me for some weird stuff I googled on the road, from pastry wars to royal cosplay, wax death masks, angry mobs, filming locations, things you can’t collect in a park and eat, how to get along with French waiters, what to do if a loved one starts sobbing in public, one of the best ways to see Paris, cider that tastes like flowers, a theme park with a hidden agenda, and the fall fashion trends that were confusingly ubiquitous. Also, how to wash socks in the sink. Let’s go to France. A donation went to CarbonFund.org Other episodes you may enjoy: Field Trip: Natural History Museum , Minisode: Travel Tips , Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) , Indigenous Culinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Bovine Neuropathology (HEADBUTTING) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, October 04, 2022
5th Anniversary Special! Xylology (LUMBER) with Jeff Perry
What’s the customary 5th Anniversary gift? Apparently… WOOD! So we wrangled our favorite sawmill owner/operator of LA’s Angel City Lumber, Jeff Perry – who rescues downed street trees from the chipper and turns them into beautiful planks, boards, stumps and chonks. We cover everything from forest management to 2x4s, wood grain, burls, bog logs, sawdust, tree disease, asparagus tips, salvaged lumber, kiln drying, Westward expansion, Indigenous forest management, cedar whiff, and how working with wood changes your relationship to death. Angel City Lumber website Donations went to The Mother Tree Project via this link Episode sources and links Other episodes you may enjoy: Bryology (MOSS) , Dendrology (TREES) Encore , Mycology (FUNGI) , Indigenous Fire Ecology (GOOD FIRE) , Carobology (NOT CHOCOLATE TREES) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, September 21, 2022
Geology (ROCKS) Part 2 with Schmitty Thompson
We’re back! Listen to Part 1 first, then hit this follow-up with your favorite geologist Schmitty Thompson, who answers listener questions a-plenty. Such as: What is a geode? Are crystals in gift shops even real? Where’s the best place to look at rocks? Is ice a rock? Plus: rock puns, favorite rocks, best and worst rock names, long hikes, imposter syndrome, lab-grown diamonds, fossilized trees, space rocks, lead poisoning, and puns. Welcome back to Schmitty’s Geology Corner. We’ve been waiting for you. Schmitty’s bio Donations went to Skype a Scientist & MinDat.org Those cool squid stickers Other episodes you may enjoy: Teuthology (SQUIDS) , Areology (MARS) , Ludology (VIDEO GAMES) , Volcanology (VOLCANOES) , Gemology (GEMS & MINERALS) , Astrobiology (ALIENS) , Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, September 21, 2022
Smologies #15: FAMILY TREES with Stephen Hanks
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 It’s a shorter, swear-free version of the wonderful Genealogy episode with author Stephen Hanks -- who teaches genealogy classes in Portland, Oregon and has contributed to PBS genealogy documentaries. We chat histories, mysteries, memories and families, plus what ignited his passion for learning about his own history. Also: how to find your family through census records, county archives, and death certificates; which DNA tests he’s taken; our most recent common ancestor; and whether or not he wears a detective cape. Stephen Hanks books: “ Three Brothers — 1626 ,” “ 1619 -- Twenty Africans ,” and “ Akee Tree ” Publisher: Inkwater Press A donation went to BlackPast.org More Smologies episodes Full length Genealogy (FAMILY HISTORY) episode + links here Sponsors of Ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris , Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions , and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Extra help from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, September 14, 2022
Geology (ROCKS) Part 1 with Schmitty Thompson
What is a rock? How big is a boulder? Why are they pretty and heavy? It’s rock talk with a true enthusiast, the charming and beloved Geologist Schmitty Thompson. Schmitty walks us through different types of rocks, minerals, geological formations, roadside wonders, countertop crystals, stone skipping, and why you should stare lovingly into a pit of gravel. There were so many listener questions, we had to make this a two-parter people. So roll up a boulder, take a seat, and enjoy Schmitty’s Geology Corner. Also: losing my marbles. More links and sources Schmitty’s bio A donation went to Skype a Scientist Those cool squid stickers Other episodes you may enjoy: Teuthology (SQUIDS) , Areology (MARS) , Ludology (VIDEO GAMES) , Volcanology (VOLCANOES) , Gemology (GEMS & MINERALS) , Astrobiology (ALIENS) , Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, September 08, 2022
Oreamnology (MOUNTAIN GOATS ARE NOT GOATS) with Julie Cunningham
Mountain goats are not goats. And there’s only one living species, Oreamnos americanus. WHAT?? Montana-based wildlife biologist and Oreamnologist Julie Cunningham counts mountain goats from helicopters, traps and tests them for science, and spends even her off days searching for them on mountaintops. We cover their population, sensual mating habits, the feel of their wool, pungent goatwhiff, tips for hikers and how these animals defy gravity scaling near-vertical cliffs. Oh also, why your favorite trail might be delicious. J ulie Cunningham’s bio A donation was made to the Rocky Mountain Goat Alliance: GoatAlliance.org You may also enjoy: Cervidology (DEER) , Bovine Neuropathology (HEADBUTTING) , Neuropathology (CONCUSSIONS) , Cryoseismology (ICEQUAKES) , Bryology (MOSS) , Phenology (SEASONS) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, August 31, 2022
Diplopodology (MILLIPEDES & CENTIPEDES) with Dr. Derek Hennen
How many legs? Why so many legs? What's a millipede versus a centipede? And again WHY SO MANY LEGS. We have just the guy for that: Diplopodologist Dr. Derek Hennen. As a person who’s spent over a decade sorting through leaf litter and naming scores of new species, Derek is truly a champion for the multi-limbed little critters. If you liked what Casey Clapp brought to Dendrology, get ready to appreciate millipedes like you never thought you would. Also: mythology gossip, world records, Taylor Swift fandom, and sniffing bugs. Dr. Derek Hennen’s website Follow Dr. Derek Hennen on Instagram and Twitter and @ dearmillipede A donation was made to Lower Muskingum Conservancy Millipedes of Ohio Field Guide PDF You may also enjoy: Dipterology (FLIES) , Sparklebuttology (FIREFLIES) , Forest Entomology (CREEPY CRAWLIES) , Entomology (INSECTS) , Scorpiology (SCORPIONS) , Kinetic Salticidology (DANCING SPIDERS) , Acarology (TICKS) , Melittology (BEES) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by <a href="https://www.jarrettsleeper.com
Tue, August 23, 2022
Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT) with Suzanne Pierre
How do societal structures affect the planet? Why should we get to know our neighbors? What’s the ecological price we pay for … stuff? Yep, there’s an -ology for that. We chat with the founder of Critical Ecology: biogeochemist, National Geographic Explorer, researcher and plant nerd, Dr. Suzanne Pierre. Dr. Pierre’s Critical Ecology Lab is involved with research on the biomes of former plantations, air pollution, agricultural runoff, and even asking questions about wildfire science and the prison system. She explains how the Big Picture can always zoom out and be a little bigger. Before you know it, you’ll see Critical Ecology everywhere you go. Dr. Suzanne Pierre’s website Follow Dr. Pierre on Instagram and Twitter A donation was made to Critical Ecology Lab Follow Critical Ecology Lab on Instagram and Twitter You may also enjoy our episodes on: Fire Ecology (WILDFIRES) , Indigenous Fire Ecology (Good Fire) , Indigenous Culinology (NATIVE COOKING) , Bisonology (BUFFALO) , Oceanology (OCEANS) , Island Ecology (ISLANDS) , Forensic Ecology (NATURE DETECTIVE) , Indigenous Fashionology (NATIVE CLOTHING) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing
Tue, August 16, 2022
Thanatology — NEW Interview (GRIEF & MOURNING) with Cole Imperi + tips for Going Through It
If you have a physical body, or know someone who does, this episode is for you! Hello, we’re all going to die. And we’re probably all going to lose someone we love. Thanatologist Cole Imperi has become a dear friend and on July 17, 2022 we pulled up a street corner in LA to chat about what she’s been up to and how to cope with the loss of a loved one. Hear about the blooming of friendship and the passing of your Grandpod, then after the break it’s a solo advice dump from me – your internet dad – with all of the handy tips that listeners and Cole gave me as I have been Going Through It. Everything is going to be okay. It might suck here and there, but the best we can do is love hard, live fully, and cherish the memories. Also: cut bangs, text your crush, eat a tiny ice cream cone. Cole Imperi's website Follow Cole on Instagram , Twitter and TikTok A donation was made to The School of American Thanatology Follow The School of American Thanatology on Instagram Grandpod’s obituary You may also enjoy our episodes on: Thanatology Encore (DEATH &DYING) , Fearology (FEAR & ANXIETY) , Eudemonology (HAPPINESS), Awesomeology (GRATITUDE FOR LITTLE THINGS) , Hematology (BLOOD) Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/alieward" target=
Wed, August 10, 2022
Thanatology (DEATH & DYING) Updated Encore with Cole Imperi
As I round out my bereavement leave following your beloved Grandpod’s passing, we’re serving up a special updated Encore of an episode and an Ologist who changed my life. Hoooo boy. We get all up in death and dying's business and to my shock, it's not a bummer. Confront and perhaps OVERCOME existential anxiety as we discuss not only the science of death but the nature and goddang beauty of life. Everything from burial methods, the latest in eco funerals, what a funeral director hates most, how gnomes die, and how to regret less. Meet your new favorite thanatologist and oddly, get the guts to be the you you want to be. Life changing, this one. Cole Imperi's website Follow Cole on Instagram , Twitter and TikTok A donation was made to The School of American Thanatology Follow The School of American Thanatology on Instagram Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes You may also enjoy our episodes on: Desairology (MORTUARY MAKE-UP) , Corvid Thanatology (CROW FUNERALS) , Taphology (GRAVESITES) , Osteology (SKELETONS/BODY FARMS) , Fearology (FEAR & ANXIETY) Jarrett Sleeper’s 100 Poems Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, August 02, 2022
Cheloniology (SEA TURTLES) Encore with Camryn Allen
Hope you dug tortoises because we’re back, shellin’ out the good stuff, with this week’s encore of sea turtles, so get ready to become wildly obsessed with them. Cheloniologist Dr. Camryn Allen met up with Alie on a tropical island (ok, in a hotel room on a tropical island) to chat about flipper slappings, turtle rodeos, nesting BBs, current surfing, endangered statuses, field work, sleeping under water, world records, boopable noses, male:female ratios, mind-boggling navigation, what you can do to help them, and the many mysteries that still remain. Take a deep dive into the world of seartles. Or is it surtles? Follow Dr. Camryn Allen on Twitter This week's donation was made to Hawaii Marine Animal Response More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, July 26, 2022
Testudinology (TORTOISES) Encore with Amanda Hipps
We're bringing back one shell of an episode with today's encore. What's a tortoise? What's a turtle? Why do they live so dang long? What's up with their junk? Wildlife biologist and testudinologist Amanda Hipps studies gopher tortoises and dishes about turtle nomenclature, cliques, dicks, behavior, burrows, evolution, habitats and more. If you don't dig tortoises yet, you're about to fall deep into a turtle tunnel in love with them. Follow Amanda Hipps on Instagram or Twitter This week's donation was made to AlongsideWildlifeFoundation.org Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, July 21, 2022
Zymology (BEER) Encore with Quinton Sturgeon
Nothin' like crackin' open a cold one with the Ologites, amirite? If you like booze, you'll love... fungus! Alie goes Rogue and takes a field trip to a brewery in Newport, OR where she smells vats of bubbling beer slop and learns about the microorganisms that are the workhorses of the brewing industry. Learn about yeasts, how beer is made, the hardest part about being a beer maker, the thick history of beer, some home brewing tips and also a nugget about bungholes. Let's get yeasty. Special thanks to Shannon Feltus and Boni Dutch for the hook-up and the road trip to the coast. More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, July 13, 2022
Personality Psychology (PERSONALITIES) Encore with Simine Vazire
A few personal updates from your internet dad and then … WHO ARE WE? This one is a banger, folks. Personality researcher & psychology professor Dr. Simine Vazire dishes about introverts, extroverts, self-esteem, sociopaths, neuroticism, conscientiousness, Buzzfeed quizzes, yearbook inscriptions, trusting people, screwing up your kids, acting like your parents, changing personality traits through therapy or medication and astrology being put to the test. Also, Alie finds out what kind of dog she is. And thanks you for your #CritterPicforGrandpod. Dr. Simine Vazire on Twitter Dr. Vazire's podcast, The Black Goat This week's donation was made to improvingpsych.org Sponsor links at https://www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at alieward.com/ologies/personalitypsychologyencore Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, July 13, 2022
Smologies #14: ALIENS with Kevin Peter Hand
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 A Smologies kid-friendly version of… ALIENS! EXTRATERRESTRIALS! MARTIANS! The phenomenal Dr. Kevin Peter Hand of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory dishes on the oceans of distant moons, methane rivers, ice crusts, the James Webb Space Telescope findings, what might be out there, aliens, what elements a planet needs to sustain life, and how finding extraterrestrial microbes would change the way we see life on this here tiny blue dot in space. More kid-safe Smologies episodes at alieward.com/smologies Dr. Kevin Peter Hand's book: Alien Oceans: the Search for Life in the Depths of Space Dr. Kevin Peter Hand on Twitter @alienoceans and Instagram @kevin_peter_hand Donations went to Traveling Telescope & Vermont's Manchester Rescue Squad Full-length version available at alieward.com/ologies/astrobiology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Ologies theme song by Nick Thorburn Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm Website design by Kelly R. Dwyer
Thu, July 07, 2022
Lutrinology (OTTERS) with Chris J. Law
YOU’RE NOT READY. But it’s time. Otters. Sea otters. River otters. Big beefy otters. Tiny otters. Giant river otters. Otters chasing you down the street. Dr. Chris J. Law, a professional Lutrinologist, shares tales about coastal vs. inland otters, otter terrorism, magical teeth, lustrous fur, rock pockets, kelp naps, otter terrorism, cautionary motherhood, toxic relationships, hand holding and why otters make you trust them, despite the fact that you should perhaps not trust an otter. Dr. Chris J. Law’s website and sci-art Follow Dr. Chris J. Law on Twitter A donation was made to SeaOtterSavvy.org More episode sources and links Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes You may also enjoy our episodes on: Echniniology (SEA URCHINS) , Osteology (SKELETONS & BODY FARMS) , Ichthyology (FISHES) , Oceanology (THE SEA) Jarrett Sleeper’s 100 Poems Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, June 29, 2022
SUMMERSODE: Balmy Vibes & Seasonal Factoids with various Ologists
I NEEDED TO MAKE THIS, OKAY? I needed to get excited about summer wonders. So we toiled over the ultimate Summersode. Kick back for a compliation of snorkling tips, shark statistics, firefly safaris, constitutional law questions, the science of makeouts, appreciation for hornets, horniness for foraging, cabins, campfires, crevice checking, jellyfish tips, bear safety, the importance of handwritten memories and actual scientific advice on how to find joy amid difficult conditions. Your summer vibe has arrived. Just in time. Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, June 22, 2022
Smologies #13: CORALS with Shayle Matsuda
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Another kid-safe, short episode of Smologies! What IS a coral? Where do they grow and what do they eat and why are they so pretty? What kind of tools do coral scientists use? Why are they so many colors? And what is bleaching? Will changing your sunscreen save coral reefs? The wonderful and charming Cnidariologist Dr. Shayle Matsuda took time out of his busy schedule during a coral spawning event to chat about how magical and beautiful coral can be and why reef health is important. More Smologies episodes Full-length non-Smologies Cnidariology (CORALS) episode — with some swear words More links at: https://www.alieward.com/smologies/corals Follow Dr. Shayle Matsuda on Twitter Donations went to Paepae o He’eia and Point Foundation Great episodes for Pride Month More Smologies episodes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn & remix by Harold Malcolm
Tue, June 14, 2022
Dipterology (FLIES) with Bryan Lessard
DO NOT YOU SKIP THIS ONE. Listen. Give flies a chance. Everyone loves a bee, but meanwhile flies are out here with all kinds of bodies and adaptations, inhabiting the least inhabitable lands, pollinating your future lunch, shimmering in rainbows, having lifelong love affairs, and burrowing in your back to eat your flesh. It’s a wild world and Australian Dipterologist Dr. Bryan Lessard creaks open a door to a wonderland of fly facts. Open a spot in your heart for shiny metallic ones, soft velvety goths, tiny humpbacks named after bodybuilders, and flies that give their lives to further medical research. Oh also: how to kill the ones in your kitchen — if you choose to. But after this, you might open a window and gently suggest their exit first. Dr. Lessard’s website Follow Dr. Bryan Lessard on Twitter & Instagram A donation was made to WWF More episode sources and links You may also enjoy our episodes on: Aperiology (MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY) , Entomology (INSECTS) , Forest Entomology (CREEPY CRAWLIES) , Scorpiology (SCORPIONS) , Melittology (BEES) , Lepidopterology (BUTTERFLIES) , Thermophysiology (BODY HEAT) , Carnivorous Phytobiology (MEAT-EATING PLANTS) , Planariology (VERY COOL WORMS I PROMISE) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @Al
Thu, June 09, 2022
Gorillaology (GORILLAS) with Tara Stoinski
Gorillas. These chest-beating, salad-munching, communal living, thick-furred beauties have so many surprises for you. Gorillaologist (IT’S A WORD) Dr. Tara Stoinski has been a gorilla scientist for nearly 3 decades and dishes on everything from fieldwork in cloudy mountains to dick facts, forest farts, banana flim-flam, the intersection of animal conservation and community investment, night-time nesting, grief, what those big teeth are for, gorilla musk, the legacy of primatologist Dr. Dian Fossey and the Gorilla Fund, and why our closest relatives need and deserve our protection. Also some weird asides about jaw exercises and online dating, because I want to. Follow Dr. Tara Stoinski on Twitter , Instagram and Facebook Donations were made to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund & LA Regional Food Bank More episode sources and links You may also enjoy our episodes on: Primatology (APES & MONKEYS) , Scatology (POOP) , Biological Anthropology (SEXY APES) , Phallology (PENISES) , Urology (CROTCH PARTS) , Environmental Microbiology (TESTING WASTEWATER FOR DISEASES) , Thantology (DEATH & DYING) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by <a href="https://www.jarrett
Thu, June 02, 2022
Somnology (SLEEP) Part Two Encore with Dr. W. Chris Winter
Have you listened to Part 1 yet? No? Go on, git. Here's a link to it! Go do that. Now if you have, this Part 2 is a bonanza of problem solving from neurologist and somnologist Dr. W. Chris Winter. He'll cover: if you should be taking sleep supplements or pills, sleep talking, apnea, why sleepiness makes us hungry, narcolepsy, the difference between insomnia and sleep deprivation, how to lucid dream, the dangers of shift work and some tactics to lull yourself to dreamland without any medications. ALSO: I share a family secret: my mom's insomnia buster -- newly dubbed the "Sleepy Fancy Nancy" -- that has literally never failed me. And I am currently spending time with my family after my dad’s emergency brain surgery a few weeks back, but put a few extra notes and updates on how we’re doing. Thanks for all the thoughts, friends. Dr. W. Chris Winter's sleep clinic Dr. W. Chris Winter's book, The Sleep Solution plus his 2021 release The Rested Child Follow twitter.com/sportsleepdoc You may also enjoy the Hematology (BLOOD) and Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS) episodes A donation went to Myeloma.org Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, June 01, 2022
Smologies #12: EATING BUGS with Julie Lesnik
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Bugs are cool! But are they lunch? Entomophagy Anthropologist Dr. Julie Lesnik is an expert on bug eating and enthusiastically explains how much more sustainable – and tasty? -- it is than other types of animal proteins. We talk about the human past, present and future of ingesting insects, from grasshopper tacos to ant omelettes, cricket wedding cakes, humane bug slaughter, water conservation, arthropod allergies, and the cultural biases that are literally killing us. Also: termite farts? Yes. More Smologies episodes Full length Entomophagy Anthropology (EATING BUGS) episode here Dr. Julie Lesnik's website A donation went to Little Herds To try crickets: EatChirps.com , use code Ologies10 for 10% off Chirp Chips Aly Moore's Bugible.com and EatBugsEvents.com More links at www.alieward.com Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris and Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions & Jarrett Sleeper of Mind Jam Media Extra help from Noel Dilworth, Susan Hale, Kelly Dwyer, Emily White, & Erin Talbert Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Thu, May 26, 2022
Somnology (SLEEP) Part One Encore with Dr. W. Chris Winter
Birds do it. Bees do it. Why the hell can't we do it? Called "The Sleep Whisperer," neurologist and sleep specialist Dr. W. Chris Winter joins for an updated encore of the thrilling 2-parter about why we need sleep, the ideal amount of it, what sleep does to the brain, insomnia, sleep stages, ideal bedtime conditions, and even the historical lore around sleep paralysis. Next week, we'll answer listener questions about everything from sleeping pills to brain performance to insomnia cures to apnea to sleepwalking to parenthood and shift work. Think of it as a free seminar to fix your life. Maybe. And I am currently spending time with my family after my dad’s emergency brain surgery a few weeks back, but put a few extra notes and updates on how we’re doing. Thanks for all the thoughts, friends. Dr. W. Chris Winter's sleep clinic Dr. W. Chris Winter's book, The Sleep Solution plus his 2021 release The Rested Child Follow twitter.com/sportsleepdoc You may also enjoy the Hematology (BLOOD) and Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS) episodes A donation went to Myeloma.org Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris and Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, May 18, 2022
Conotoxinology (CONE SNAIL VENOM) with Joshua Torres & Sabah Ul-Hasan
Predatory. Sneaky. Deadly. Lifesavers? You think you don’t care about cone snails. But that’s about to change. Conotoxinologists Dr. Sabah Ul-Hasan and Dr. Joshua Torres study these spiral-shelled hunters of the sea. Why all the fuss? Because their venom -– and the microbes that live in it — may hold medical magic that can help us solve problems related to pain and insulin and much more. Also: how long can you live after a cigarette snail strikes you? What happens to researchers who get stung? How is venom harvested? Should you ever pick one up? The docs have all the answers. Follow Dr. Joshua Torres on Twitter Connect with Dr. Sabah Ul-Hasan via LinkedIn More episode sources and links You may also enjoy our episodes on Malacology (SNAILS) , Medusology (JELLYFISH) & Toxinology (JELLYFISH VENOM) Donations were made to Helping Women Period and OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, May 12, 2022
Urology (CROTCH PARTS) with Fenwa Milhouse
We’ve done Nephrology, Gynecology, and Phallology — but nothing prepared us for this. Penis implants. Road trip pees. Kegels. Bidets. Squirting. UTIs. Clitoral flim-flam. Elephant bladders. Everyone’s favorite Urologist, Dr. Fenwa Milhouse, makes chatting about the uh, juicy stuff effortless and easy. Like peeing should be. She humbly describes herself as a crotch plumber, but she’s so much more: a surgeon, a mentor and an inspiration. Dr. Fenwa Milhouse on TikTok @yourfavoriteurologist or Instagram @DrMilhouse More links at Alieward.com/ologies/urology You may also enjoy our episodes on Nephrology (KIDNEYS), Gynecology (VULVAS AND SUCH), and Phallology (PENISES) A donation went to UrologyUnbound.org Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, May 05, 2022
Acoustic Ecology (NATURE RECORDINGS) with Eddie Game
Insects humming. Birds squawking. Chainsaws buzzing? What does the rainforest sound like? Or the oceans outside of port cities? Is the world getting louder? And what can recording devices detect that our ears – especially mine, Alie’s – can’t? Acoustic Ecologist Dr. Eddie Game of the Nature Conservancy has asked conservation questions over decades of work in 20 countries, and even though his microphone for this interview sucked, his stories and wisdom are a pleasure to hear. Also: is it okay to talk to owls? How much of timber harvesting is legal? And how do communities come together to protect the lands around them? Also: the most elusive and coolest midnight parrot. Dr. Eddie Game is on Twitter A donation was made this week to The Nature Conservancy Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, April 28, 2022
Classical Archaeology (ANCIENT ROME) Encore with Darius Arya
If you LIVE for drama, you will LOVE dead Romans. Wars, backstabbing, opulence and uprisings: a little something for everyone. Classical Archeologist and TV host Dr. Darius Arya is back for an encore of this 2018 classic to dish about priceless garbage piles, lead poisoning, ancient political scandals, pottery graveyards, unearthing sculptures, tomb discoveries, what's under European cities, and how Roman society was a little like America these days. But also a lot different. With new bonus material recorded in April, 2022 in my sister’s garage. Dr. Darius Arya's website, DariusAryaDigs.com . He's also on Twitter and Instagram @DariusAryaDigs A donation was made this week to AncientRomeLive.org Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, April 21, 2022
Teuthology (SQUIDS) Encore with Dr. Sarah McAnulty
THE SQUIDMOBILE HAS ARRIVED. Get in losers; we’re talking cephalopods. Yes, she drives a vehicle with squid all over it and encourages people to text her, and we have this encore episode to prove it. The world's most impassioned squid nerd, Sarah McAnulty, gets locked in a basement with Alie to talk about cephalopods, alien DNA, camouflage, invisibility cloaks, why cute things make us bonkers, terrible mating strategies, cute and clever ones and why she is so charmed by squid. Also addressed: Philly accents and the Kraken. And why I am putting out an encore episode from a parking garage. The squid facts hotline can be reached at 1-833-SCI-TEXT aka 1-833-724-8398 Follow Dr. Sarah McAnulty on Twitter & Instagram @SarahMackAttack Sarah's Atlas Obscura classes, science trivia, book + more A donation was made this week to SkypeAScientist.com Follow Skype A Scientist on Twitter & Instagram Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, April 13, 2022
Environmental Microbiology (TESTING WASTEWATER FOR DISEASES) with Amy Kirby
Oh boy. This episode may seeeeem crappy but it is certainly not a waste of your time. We’re not kidding, while the episode is of course wonderful, mostly thanks to our wonderful guests, it is also certainly about poopy wastewater and what we can all learn from it. About those terrific guests: we mostly speak with Dr. Amy E. Kirby, Ph.D., MPH of the frickin’ CDC (yes, that CDC) about the National Wastewater Surveillance System or NWSS. Did you know sewer water is not just a feature of teenage mutant ninja turtle habitats? Epidemiologists have been using the contents of our collectively owned chocolate waterfall to track disease since polio, but it was only in response to COVID-19 that the CDC launched the NWSS “to coordinate and build the nation’s capacity to track the presence of SARS-CoV-2.” So we learn a bit about what all that means, as we talk weird waste, medication levels in the water, whether or not “silent but deadly” is flim flam, and more in this absolutely gushing sluicegate of an ep. BUT WAIT. That’s not all. We got two little extra guests! First up, your ol’ Dadward did a prank call on Amy Narimatsu of Shorerivers.org, so she has a fun little cameo, and we conclude with previous virology guest, Dr. Shannon Bennett, of the California Academy of Sciences to discuss what’s happening with COVID these days, and why it’s important to stay safe for those who still need protection. It’s an absolutely bursting septic tank of an episode so… Hang on to your butts. Follow the CDC on Twitter Learn more about the CDC's National Wastewater Surveillance System Follow Dr. Bennett on Twitter A donation was made this week to ShoreRivers Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of <a href
Tue, April 05, 2022
Echinology (SEA URCHINS & SAND DOLLARS) with Rich Mooi
The hedgehogs of the sea: echinoids are spiky, spiny, pokey, be-toothed, venomous, mysterious, gorgeous evolutionary marvels. And Dr. Rich Mooi of the California Academy of Arts & Sciences is one of their biggest champions. Come stroll through the offices for a face-to-face encounter with this infectious expert. We talk sand dollars, uni, doves of peace, fire urchins, kelp forests, tiny hats, butt placement, foot eyes and how to find your niche, even if it’s miles below the surface on a rotting log. Learn More About Dr. Rich Mooi A donation went to California Academy of Sciences Follow the California Academy of Arts and Science on Twitter More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, March 30, 2022
Carnivorous Phytobiology (MEAT-EATING PLANTS) with Hali’a Eastburn
Flesh hungry plants. The world’s fastest hunters. Botany with brains? Seymour, it’s time to feed because we’re doing meat-eating plants with conservation ecologist and carnivorous phytobiologist, Hali’a Eastburn. Can a Venus Fly Trap digest human flesh? Do frogs think of pitcher plants as home or hell? How fast is a bladderwort? Are scientists anesthetizing plants? Why exactly DID they name a fly trap after the goddess of love? Also: homicidal plant tattoos, nature’s grossest vending machines, and what plants are most goth with a pair of real #bogbitches. Follow Hali’a Eastburn on Twitter and Instagram Donations were made to North American Sarracenia Conservancy and Kauluakalana More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, March 22, 2022
LIFE ADVICE: For anyone who is tired & needs some hacks
Pomodoro timers! Bullet journals! Apps, tips, tricks and philosophies. Also: the most mellow episode ever, recorded late at night in a guest room. Like a cozy duvet of wisdom, this one is full of life hacks for remaining productive & healthy during distracting times. I asked Ologites their best strategies for keeping their brains less burdened and organizing everything from schedules to leftovers to sock drawers. In quick 5 chapters: Your Hot Bod Needs This Home is Where the Hard Is Wrestling with Father Time Tricking Your Brain to Trick Your Brain Emo Stuff Whether you’re neurotypical or not, this final follow up on the ADHD series is a catalogue of strategies to make future you happier. Also: some end-of-episode life updates from Dadward on why you’ve gotten re-runs for two weeks. More episode links and resources Donations went to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and International Myeloma Foundation Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, March 16, 2022
Smologies #11: SNAILS & SLUGS with Jann Vendetti
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 The SMOL version of an ep about smol precious creatures, we're talkin' slimy little angels with bellies for feet... literally! That's what gastropod means! We've got Dr. Jann Vendetti of the Natural History Museum of LA County to talk with Alie about snail-based beauty products, escargot, urban snails, thousands and thousands of teeth, and whether or not you should adopt a rabbit-sized pet snail. Click here for the full-sized, somewhat filthy version SLIME project at NHM.org More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper Theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, March 09, 2022
Ferroequinology (TRAINS) Encore with Matt Anderson
Trains. Locomotives. Choochoos. Bullet trains. Hyperloops. Subways. How fast can they go? How did they change American history? Why do people love them? What should we do with all that abandoned track? Can you marry a train? What's it like to shovel coal into a steam engine? Alie went off the rails at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan talking to an official ferroequinologist and curator Matt Anderson -- who confessed to some youthful railroad mischief, delivered a succinct slice of U.S. History, has train movie recommendations and discussed cars vs. trains in the great transportation debate. Also, why transporting isn't always about the trains. The Henry Ford Museum Railroad Exhibit More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, March 03, 2022
Part 2: Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) with How to ADHD, Black Girl Lost Keys, Jahla Osborne + more
Did Part 1 leave you informed and now you need a pep talk? Get ready for an absolute banger of an episode with 5 experts: René Brooks of BlackGirlLostKeys.com, TEDTalk speaker and How to ADHD YouTuber Jessica McCabe and neuroscientist Jahla Osborne of University of Michigan. What is it like to get diagnosed? How do you know which medication – if any – is right for you? Why is there such a spike in ADHD diagnoses during the pandemic? Autism and ADHD: what’s the deal? What accommodations should a person ask for? How can you have a strong relationship with one (or more) ADHD brains? What if your boyfriend juggles flaming swords for fun? Sure there are tips and tricks, but get ready for the pep talk and self-acceptance honestly everyone needs to hear. Plus: two cameos from past Ologists: Dr. Tiara Moore (Forensic Ecology) and Dr. Adam Becker (Quantum Ontology). Oh, and how this relates to Alie’s own Dadbrain. HERE WE GO. René Brooks of Black Girl Lost Keys on Twitter , Instagram and Facebook Jessica McCabe of How to ADHD on Twitter , Instagram , YouTube and TikTok Jahla Osborne on Twitter and Instagram And check out these previous episodes with our cameo guests: Forensic Ecology With Tiara Moore Quantum Ontology With Adam Becker Donations were made to CHADD , ADDA and FailSafe-ERA More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on <a href="https://twitter.com/olog
Wed, February 23, 2022
Part 1: Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) with Russell Barkley
Focus. Productivity. Relationships. Distraction. Neurodiversity. How do you know if you have ADHD? How can you get others to understand your ADHD brain? What are your treatment options and how can they help? In Part 1, we talk racing thoughts, brilliant brains and the causes and effects of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder with the world’s leading expert, Dr. Russell Barkley who is A BIG DEAL. Psychologist, retired professor of clinical psychiatry, author and speaker, Dr. Barkley has a personal connection to ADHD and has studied it for nearly 40 years. Is it all cute quirks? Nope. It’s serious business. But next week, we’ll hear about tips and tricks and self-love from 3 more experts — Jessica McCabe of How to ADHD, René Brooks of Black Girl Lost Keys and ADHD researcher Jahla Osborne. I’M TRYING NOT TO USE A BUNCH OF EXCLAMATION POINTS. It’s exciting. Dr. Russell Barkley’s website dedicated to education and research on ADHD Dr. Barkley’s book, Taking Charge of Adult ADHD Donations were made to CHADD and Partners in Health More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, February 16, 2022
Cycadology (RARE PLANT DRAMA) with Nathalie Nagalingum
Gather 'round fellow nerds, you’re about to learn about the wildest not a fern not a bush not a cactus plant you never knew you never knew about: CYCADS. These endangered ancient plants have been around for 270 million years, give or take, and now they’re some of the most valuable vegetation in the world. Come along to learn about these uncomfortably sexy gymnosperms and the international crimes people do to steal them. Also: neurotoxins, Jurassic Park, and one of the best fixes for procrastination we’ve ever heard with the world’s favorite botanist and cycadologist, Dr. Nathalie Nagalingum. Dr. Nathalie Nagalingum’s website Follow Dr. Nathalie Nagalingum on Twitter and tell her you love her Dr. Nagalingum’s profile at California Academy of Sciences Speaking of which, Alie will be moderating a Women in Science Nightlife event there coming up March 3rd, and you can get tickets for that here A donation was made to Ovarian Cancer Australia More episode links and sources Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, February 09, 2022
Carnivore Ecology (LIONS, TIGERS, & BEARS) with Rae Wynn-Grant
Ah, charismatic megafauna! Teeth, claws, fur, hibernation, bear hugs, hiking, cougar attacks, nature preserves, and living your childhood dreams with Alie’s longtime -ologist crush, Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant. The large carnivore ecologist, researcher and TV presenter tells us all about her field work, what it’s like to stuff a baby bear in your coat, how carnivore plasma may one day save your life, balancing a few different stellar careers at once and the launch of her own PBS podcast, Going Wild. Also: how to revive a bear you’ve given ketamine and surprises she’s found in the woods. We love her. Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant’s website , Twitter , and Instagram Listen to Dr. Wynn-Grant’s podcast, Going Wild Follow Tsalani on Instagram for beautiful bear, wildlife & nature pics A donation went to Black Outside More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, February 01, 2022
Myrmecology (ANTS) Encore with Dr. Terry McGlynn
You have ants. We all have ants, but do we KNOW ants? Get ready for cult-leader queens, bullet ant stings, kitchen pest hacks, the dynamics of a billion-sister megacolony. Dr. Terry McGlynn sits down to have a BIG discussion about itty-bitty creatures in this encore because I was out of town seeing my family and just needed a week off. Learn about tropical ants, urban ants, how they walk on water, which ones are picky eaters, which ones make weird sounds, what ant movies are bunk, and some help-help takeaways. Also: sniffing your relatives before deciding to kill them. Ooooh, it’s a classic. Dr. Terry McGlynn's website and Twitter A donation went to the SEEDS Field Trip fund More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, February 01, 2022
Smologies #10: BODY HEAT with Shane Campbell-Staton
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Bundle up for a smol, classroom-friendly episode with Princeton University evolutionary biologist and Thermophysiologist Dr. Shane Campbell-Staton. You’ll learn about everything from heat tolerance to frostbite, anti-freeze woodfrogs to icy alligators, why some people run hot, why your toes run cold, how a fever is like a honeybee, how geography influences our body composition, why mammoths are big, and why you should grab your hat before running out the door. Also: what counts as “balmy” in Alaska. Full, uncut, NSFW version of Thermophysiology plus research links More Smologies episodes Here is Dr. Campbell-Staton’s website and Twitter Listen to his podcast The Biology of Super Heroes Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, January 26, 2022
Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) with Mariah Gladstone of Indigikitchen
Shoving elk into a dorm room freezer. The wildest tasting rice. Flower bulbs, acorn whoopie pies, frybread debates, mushroom foraging tips, corn magic, puffball mythology, decolonized diets, squash lasagna, bison harvests, small worlds, Instapots and – most importantly – food sovereignty with the WONDERFUL Indigikitchen cooking show host, environmental scientist Mariah Gladstone, who reminds us all that native foods aren’t a part of a past, but an essential and exciting aspect of the future. LINK PARTY, SO MANY LINKS HERE Mariah’s website , Twitter and Instagram A donation was made to FASTBlackfeet.org Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, January 20, 2022
Screamology (LOUD VOCALIZATIONS) with Harold Gouzoules
I scream, you scream, we all scream for… a brand new, screaming hot episode of Ologies. Be warned *slaps the top of this ep* you can fit so many screams in this bad boy. (Seriously though, there’s a lot of screaming in this episode, it’s probably not the one to gently fall asleep to.) What kinds of screams you ask? We got birds, foxes, caterpillars, movie stars, children, James Bond? YES. What is a scream? Is it the same as yelling? How far can you hear a scream? Why do we scream at concerts? What’s up with primal scream therapy? Join us as we hoot and holler with internationally acclaimed Emory professor of psychology Dr. Harold Gouzoules for the answers to these and so many more of your questions as we learn about the study of that most animal of vocalizations: screaming. Dr. Gouzoules ’s Emory University Bioacoustics Lab A donation was made to American Diabetes Association More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media
Thu, January 13, 2022
Bovine Neuropathology (HEADBUTTING) with Nicole Ackermans
Slamming heads together to impress someone: why does this happen? Let’s ask Dr. Nicole Ackermans, whose current job involves receiving sheep heads and painstakingly counting damaged neurons from headbutting concussions. The Neuropathology episode last week gives all the concussion basics, but this one turns the microscope away from accidents and points it right at intentional behaviors in nature, from bighorn sheep to musk oxen, goats, woodpeckers, and some other animals that will freak you out. Also: questionable helmet ideas and horny hogs. Get all the background on head trauma, including my recent brainwhack concussion Check Dr. Nicole Ackerman's website and Twitter A donation was made to Society for Women's Health Research More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, January 11, 2022
Smologies #9: GAMING with Jane McGonigal
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Games! Play! Fun! Addiction? Flim-flam? From the origins of tabletop classics to the future of VR, Dr. Jane McGonigal answers our burning questions. This video game developer, TED speaker and bestselling author is an expert on how playing -- and especially video games -- can motivate, soothe and connect us. Will video games turn your child into a future car thief? How do they make you stronger? How much is too much? What about slot machines? Everyone who loves games (and everyone who hates games) should hear this one. The uncut, adult version of Ludology plus research links More Smologies episodes Dr. McGonigal’s website and Twitter Dr. McGonigal’s new book “ Imaginable ” is due out March 22, 2022 A donation went to AbleGamers Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Zeke Rodrigues Thomas & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm Special thanks to Susan Hale, Noel Dilworth, Kelly Dwyer and Emily White
Wed, January 05, 2022
Neuropathology (CONCUSSIONS) with Mary Alexis Iaccarino
Hi, last week I fell down a flight of stairs. Then I went to the hospital. Then I emailed Dr. Mary Alexis Iaccarino, a Harvard Medical School professor and specialist in rehabilitation from traumatic brain injuries. I asked her all about what happens during a concussion, when to be worried, how long it takes to heal, when a person should get their ass to a hospital, what a brain scan can tell us about a head injury, what it CAN’T tell us about a head injury, if you can fall asleep after a head injury, and the differences between mTBI, TBI, SRC, CTE and even ATGATT. Plus, bike helmets, Natasha Richardson, fruit fly role models and some truly infuriating statistics on who gets mTBI treatment and who doesn’t. And stay tuned later this week for a bonus episode on what happens when bighorn sheep bash their skulls together. Follow Dr. Mary Alexis Iaccarino on Twitter A donation was made to HomeBase.org More episode info and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Wed, December 29, 2021
Raccoonology (PROCYONIDS) with A Gaze of Raccoonologists
Here we go: SIX more raccoon experts, because one episode is not enough for the wonders of these terrific trash bandits. Revel in the raccoon love and hear about presidential pets, neuronal density, why raccoonologists walk out on the job, their fabled intelligence, how Aesop factors into raccoonology, and the comfort of the male gaze? Also, treat yourself and your timeline to an upgrade by following these wildlife experts: Hannah J. Griebling, MSc on Twitter animalcognitionlab.org Kelly E. Lane-deGraaf, PhD on Twitter Jessica M. Andersen on Twitter blueridgewildlifectr.org Lauren A. Stanton, Ph.D. on Twitter laurenastanton.wixsite.com/cognitive-ecology Jessi Knudsen Castañeda on Twitter , Instagram and YouTube animalwonders.org Jennifer Colbourne on Twitter Donations went to: Center for One Health , Blue Ridge Wildlife Center , and Animal Wonders More episode resources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Ke
Wed, December 22, 2021
Procyonology (RACCOONS) with Suzanne MacDonald
Tiny hands! Round rumps! Chaos! Compost! Delicious garbage and sweet faces make raccoons as mysterious as they are adored. World class raccoon expert, psychologist and animal behaviorist Dr. Suzanne MacDonald of Toronto’s York University explains tree sleeping, brain worms, cartoon raccoons, queer icons, whether you should keep one as a pet and also: some of the best career and life advice from midnight gremlins eating chicken bones in your driveway. Stay tuned for next week’s part 2 with half a dozen more raccoon experts. Follow Dr. Suzanne MacDonald on Twitter Her website A donation was made to Toronto Wildlife Centre More episode resources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Tue, December 21, 2021
Smologies #8: HAGFISH with Tim Winegard
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Who doesn't love a floppy, slime-filled, hot dog shaped creature of the deep sea? On this Smologies (It's like if Ologies were more Smol) we return to our conversation with Tim Winegard, a professional hagfishologist (YES IT'S A WORD) at Chapman University, and he dishes on the world's slimiest treasures. You're gonna learn about things like why you don't always need a spine and how special ketchup is and, of course, lots and lots about mucus. Also in case you didn't know, Smologies is indeed an abbreviated, de-filthed episode of Ologies for when you only have 20 minutes to learn something interesting about the thing your date said they're into in their profile you've got kids with you in the car who are definitely going to repeat the curse word they learned from their ol' GrandfatherWard all through fingerpainting class. The uncut, adult version of Hagfishology plus research links MORE Smologies episodes A donation went to The Ocean Exploration Trust Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Thu, December 16, 2021
Genicular Traumatology (BAD KNEES) with Kevin Stone
How do your knees feel? How do YOU feel about your knees? Buckle up to better your relationship with what some listeners call their most hated and contentious joint. Globally-lauded orthopedic surgeon Dr. Kevin Stone agreed to sit on a porch and explain everything from cracking to popping, patellas to tendons vs ligaments, cartilage donuts, physical therapy, self-surgery, joint juices, sporty injections, cadaver tissues, pig legs, if weight has any effect on knee health, types of arthritis, bionic body parts, and if knees are really out to get us. Also if you’re still reading this description, this episode has some long-ass bizarre asides with some trivia that will haunt you. Meet… your knees. Follow Dr. Kevin Stone’s work on Instagram His book, “ Play Forever: How to Recover From Injury and Thrive ” His Linktree A donation was made to the Stone Research Foundation More episode links and info Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks, more Follow @ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter or Instagram Smologies episodes Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Smologies editing by Zeke Rodrigues Thomas & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Fri, December 10, 2021
Audiobook Mixtape 2: Gift Ideas from the Ologists’ Brains
From crisp cider to blistering lava, life advice, climate solutions, the comforts of venison stew, cockroaches in orbit, UFO culture, social justice, dongs, worms, wasps, fireflies, bear orgies, makeouts, disasters, the deep ruts of the patriarchy, and desperate horny bugs. This second-ever “Audiobook Mixtape” has it all. So if you’re near a fireplace but have no book, or haven’t started holiday shopping (like your dear old Dadward VonPodcast) let this casserole of literary snippets serve as a refresher of favorite episodes, a teaser for ones you haven’t heard or just a gentle nudge toward a bookshop. Links to these books (& the Ologists’ episodes) 2019’s Audiobook Mixtape 1 episode Donations went to 826LA.org and Bookshop.org Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks... Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Tue, December 07, 2021
Smologies #7: CATS with Mikel Delgado
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 CATS! Kittens. Tigers. Purring. Toys. Litterboxes. We cover it all in this abridged and G-rated Felinology version for Smologites, or just anyone who doesn’t want to listen to swearing with their science. Professional cat behavior expert Dr. Mikel Delgado dishes on domestication, cats on leashes, why they want to sit on your laptop, how to play with cats the right way, if tigers make biscuits, and so much more. Get inside the head of your favorite, furry enigmas and you'll love them even more. Also: scoop that box. Doctor’s orders. Full, uncut and NSFW Felinology episode plus research links MORE Smologies episodes Dr. Mikel Delgado's Twitter , website , and business A donation was made to Kitten Central of Placer County Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Tue, November 30, 2021
Forensic Ecology (NATURE DETECTIVE) with Tiara Moore
Yep -- it’s detective work! But instead of crime scenes, environmental scientist, marine biologist and Forensic Ecologist Dr. Tiara Moore travels the world to sample the sea and the soil looking for the ghosts of larvae past, whispers of frog spit, fungal traces in loamy soil, and the unseen forces that lead to algal blooms and toxic tides. She also is the CEO of #BlackInMarineScience week, which is NOW: Nov. 28-Dec. 04! Follow that hashtag and see the events link below and buckle your life jacket to a spirited chat about finding your calling on tropical seas, labwork, forest fungus, Missy Elliot, sedimentary soil science, straight up racism, the state of allyship, marine science careers, and whether or not she may have found evidence of Bigfoot. I mean. For more on #BlackinMarineScience (BiMS) BiMS 2021 EVENT SCHEDULE! Follow Dr. Tiara Moore on Twitter and Instagram Donations went to BiMS and BWEEMS Dr. Moore’s website: TiaraMoore.com Dr. Moore works with The Nature Conservancy ! More episode links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, more Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Wed, November 24, 2021
Booster Coronasode: Shots & Holidays with Vaccine Infodemiologist Jessica Malaty Rivera
You’re six to ten times LESS likely to catch COVID-19 if you’re vaccinated, and thus less likely to infect others. Great! But what about breakthrough cases? Who’s at risk for them? How many folks haven’t gotten vaccinated? Should pregnant people get the ol’ jab, what might happen with transmission rates in 2022, yearly booster questions, the ethics of vaccine distribution, myocarditis, Long COVID, quarantine fatigue and essentially whether the holidays are a good idea. Follow Jessica Malaty Rivera on Instagram and Twitter More info on Jessica A donation went to Doctors About Borders More episode links and info Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Mon, November 22, 2021
Smologies #6: WOLVES with Bridgett vonHoldt
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Wolf howls, wolf packs, wolf history and more! November 23 is the dog appreciation holiday Wolfenoot so we’re dishing up a puppy-sized and kid-friendly Smologies with lupinologist and Princeton professor Dr. Brigette vonHoldt. Learn about wolf populations, canine family dynamics, Game of Thrones direwolves, if wolves howl at the moon, myths and truths about alphas, and how you can help our lupine friends. The full, uncut, NSFW Lupinology episode MORE Smologies episodes The vonHoldt Lab Benefunder for Dr. vonHoldt A donation went to Red Wolf Coalition More episode links & info Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Wed, November 17, 2021
Tiktokology (THE TIKTOK APP) with Hank Green
Who’s on it? What’s on it? And why does the interface feel like you’re on a prank show? Scicomm host, vlogger, author, internet friend, and TikTok-maker Hank Green stops in to chat about learning the language of the algorithm, dopamine, duets, data concerns, idealized selves, self-expression, mental health, authenticity, work/ life boundaries. And just a bunch of milk. Follow Hank on TikTok , Twitter and Instagram Alie Dadward aka me on TikTok Get Hank’s books! An Absolutely Remarkable Thing , A Beautifully Foolish Endeavor THE MILK VIDEO His website: hankgreen.com A donation was made to Partners in Health More episodes resources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Wed, November 10, 2021
Dolorology (PAIN) with Rachel Zoffness
PAIN. What is it? Where does it come from? And how can we hurt less? Which hurts more, a kidney stone or heartache? Why does chronic pain persist? Can we turn down our pain dials? To answer these huge questions, pain psychologist Dr. Rachel Zoffness enthusiastically explains the brain, pain and how to retrain it. She is an unabashed neuronerd and a ray of hope in a field that is misunderstood, neglected and under-explained. A true life-changer of a person. Follow Dr. Rachel Zoffness on Twitter and Instagram Her Pain Management Workbook on Bookshop.org and Amazon Her website, which has a resource page with a ton of free info: zoffness.com A donation was made to The Trevor Project More episode resources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Wed, November 03, 2021
Teuthological Ludology (ACTUAL SQUID GAMES, NOT THE TV SHOW) with Sarah McAnulty
This is NOT about the Netflix show, Squid Game. It's about shapeshifting, flirtatious trickery, living fishing lures, siphon squirts, weird things found in shark stomachs, and cephalopods who are downright dicks to fish: real games played in nature by real squid. Because we weren't the only ones watching Squid Game and thinking, "Why aren't there more squid in this?" Hence we combined the study of squids (teuthology) and games (ludology) to make Teuthological Ludology with everyone's favorite squid expert: Dr. Sarah McAnulty from the 2018 Teuthology episode. We reunited on mic for all the deep sea gossip, wrapped in the most shameless pun ever. TEXT " SQUIDS! " TO THIS NUMBER 1-833-724-8398 or 1-833-SCI-TEXT Buy Dr. McAnulty’s squid coloring book Follow Dr. Sara McAnulty at @SarahMackAttack on Twitter and Instagram Learn more about Skype a Scientist More episode resources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Mon, November 01, 2021
Smologies #5: VETERINARY BIOLOGY with Vernard Hodges & Terrence Ferguson
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 At long last: an episode dedicated to veterinary medicine! Dr. Terrence Ferguson & Dr. Vernard Hodges have been friends for nearly 30 years and have co-owned their rural Georgia veterinary clinic, Critter Fixers, for over 20 years. The two wonderful buddies talk about getting accepted into vet school, caring for spiders & camels & lizards & toads & kittens & doggos, the weirdest things they’ve extracted from animal tummies, if our pets love us back, keeping kidneys healthy, grain-free diets, what to do if your (Alie’s) dog is plumping up by a few pounds, what they wish animal owners knew, when it’s time to let go vs. keep treating a pet, the daily rollercoaster of emotions that come with vet med -- and their charming, informative new show “Critter Fixers: Country Vets” on NatGeo Wild. Full, uncut, NSFW Veterinary Biology episode MORE Smologies episodes Follow Dr. Hodges & Dr. Ferguson on Instagram Their vet practice Watch “ Critter Fixers: Country Vets ” on National Geographic A donation went to It Takes a Village Foundation Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris Smologies theme song by Harold Ma
Wed, October 27, 2021
Taphology (GRAVESITES) with Robyn S. Lacy
Bidding farewell to the sweetest and spookiest month, we traipse past graves with archeologist, conservator and Taphologist Robyn Lacy. What’s the difference between a graveyard and a cemetery? Is it wrong to picnic in one? And can tombstone scrubbing help the world and soothe your living soul? Plus, font trends on headstones, old-timey gravestone emojis, a coffin-within-a-coffin, the best epitaphs and knowing the difference between slate, marble, and granite monuments. To celebrate Halloween, stop by the cemetery gates to do zinckies with your best ghosties. (That will make sense later.) Robyn S. Lacy’s website: spadeandthegrave.com Follow her @graveyard_arch on Twitter and Instagram Gravestone conservation info: blackcatcemeterypreservation.wordpress.com A donation went to UNICEF Canada's COVID-19 vaccine initiative: https://www.unicef.ca/en/what-we-do/donate-to-coronavirus?fbclid=IwAR2df-h92Svs5lURmjea4qsq-8P6xbeieDajBFbQPfkHvQYjNGHhPzOePJk Halloween Scavenger Hunt info: https://www.talkdeath.com/talkdeath-halloween-cemetery-scavenger-hunt/ More links up at alieward.com/ologies Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of www.thewordary.com/
Wed, October 20, 2021
Kinetic Salticidology (DANCING SPIDERS) with Sebastian Echeverri
They dance. They flirt. They will steal your heart. They are spiders. Jumping spiders, specifically, and impassioned spider scientist Dr. Sebastian Echeverri is on board to tell you all about their sexy dances. How far can a jumping spider jump? What makes a good spider dancer? Why are they so cute? Can you sample their mating drumming and make a sick industrial-EDM track that feels like you’re in a Berlin discotheque? Buckle up for the grooviest Spooktober of your life. BUY the sick track “Habronattus: Multimodal Display” https://ologies.bandcamp.com/releases Created by www.jasonscardamalia.com/ and featuring recordings by Dr. Damian Elias with proceeds going toward spider research Dr. Sebastian Echeverri’s website https://www.spiderdaynightlive.com/ Follow Dr. Sebastian Echeverri: twitter.com/spiderdayNight and https://www.instagram.com/spiderdaynightlive Donations went to: www.entopoc.org/ and Xerces.org More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/dancingspiders Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of www.thewordary.com/
Tue, October 12, 2021
Chiropterology Part 2 (BATS) Encore with Merlin Tuttle
PART 2: The stunning conclusion of a 3-hour gab session about frickin' bats with America's favorite chiropterologist, Dr. Merlin Tuttle. Learn about bat conversations, their close friendships, surprising dongs, where they keep their nipples, how to go bat spotting after the sun sets, more myths and misconceptions about bat danger, perhaps the grossest thing Merlin has ever put in his mouth, how to hang up a bat house for maximum bat party funtimes, the latest on white nose syndrome and how it feels to get slapped by a bat. Once again: Indiana Jones can get bent because Dr. Merlin Tuttle is the hero this nation needs. Learn more about bats & Dr. Merlin Tuttle's photography & work in conservation: www.MerlinTuttle.org Dr. Merlin Tuttle's bat books: www.merlintuttle.org/category/books/ Social media links: www.instagram.com/merlintuttlephoto www.twitter.com/merlinsbats www.facebook.com/MerlinTuttlesBatConservation Sponsor links: kiwi.com/ologies; calm.com/ologies; hellofresh.com/ologies9, code: Ologies9; mytruition.com/ologies; More links up at alieward.com/ologies/chiropterology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, October 12, 2021
Chiropterology (BATS) Encore with Merlin Tuttle
“People fear most what they understand least." Words of wisdom from explorer/American treasure/bat expert, Dr. Merlin Tuttle. As your internet dad/host takes care of her surgically recuperating husband this week, we revisit her visit to Austin. In 2019, Alie headed to the bat capital and sat down with the legendary chiropterologist to discuss wild field stories and close calls and caves and comebacks and bat chatter and what a bat actually is and how big they get and what's up with their smushy noses, why folks are so frightened by them, the evolution of flight, echolocation, getting a bat out of your house, how they sleep upside down, which ones guzzle blood, and the latest on white nose syndrome -- which is not a drug problem. Sit back with a cup of tea or something stronger and get ready for adventure. Indiana Jones can get bent because Dr. Merlin Tuttle is the hero this nation needs. More Spooktober episodes! alieward.com/ologies/spooktober2021 Learn more about bats & Dr. Merlin Tuttle's photography & work in conservation: www.MerlinTuttle.org A donation was made to: www.MerlinTuttle.org Dr. Merlin Tuttle's bat books: www.merlintuttle.org/category/books/ Social media links: www.instagram.com/merlintuttlephoto www.twitter.com/merlinsbats www.facebook.com/MerlinTuttlesBatConservation Sponsor links: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links up at alieward.com/ologies/chiropterology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes, masks and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, October 05, 2021
Corvid Thanatology (CROW FUNERALS) Encore with Kaeli Swift
Crows have funerals? CROWS HAVE FUNERALS. The inky black bird with the big brain warns and maybe mourns around their fallen friends and Dr. Kaeli Swift is here to tell us all about it. As an avid wildlife researcher and corvid specialist, she's observed death behaviors that will shock you to your bones and ruffle your hackles -- while somehow also making you cry about peanuts. Also: so much inspiration to keep being yourself and to work hard toward what you love. She is a hero. Dr. Kaeli Swift's Blog , YouTube , Twitter & Instagram Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris
Tue, September 28, 2021
Pyrotechnology (FIREMAKING) with Ellery Frahm
Grab your fire extinguisher and hang on to your eyebrows, we’re building FIRES today. Now, this is pyrotechnology in the anthropological sense; the kind covered in hair metal concert venue liability insurance will have to wait for another day, no no, these are the kind your ancestors made. Get ready for sharp rocks, hairy jello, sooty caves, glowing coals, iron sparks, burnt feet, wolf skulls, fluffy fungus, molten metal, ember tending and more with Yale anthropologist and pyrotechnologist, Dr. Ellery Frahm. Follow Dr. Frahm on Bluesky Check out his website Donations went to: https://www.armeniafund.org/ More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/pyrotechnology Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of www.thewordary.com/ Website by https://www.kellyrdwyer.com/ Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, September 21, 2021
Opossumology (O/POSSUMS) with Lisa Walsh
Teeth. Tails. Concentric nipples. This not-at-all-rodent has the distinction of being North America’s sole marsupial and so Alie hunted down lauded Opossumologist Dr. Lisa Walsh and launched an absolute torrent of giddy questions. How many ticks do they really eat, can we keep them as pets, how do we all convincingly feign death, opossum vs. possum, fingerprints, orphaned babies, the best possum jokes, the worst ones, venom immunity, bifurcated dongs, space portal vageens, being equally ugly and adorable, the rise of the memes, why we scream at our own asses, and more. Open a space in your heart for these critters. Follow Dr. Walsh at Twitter.com/spoutsoffacts , Donations went to: https://www.kidneyfund.org/ & https://opossumsocietyus.org/ More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/ opossumology Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of www.thewordary.com/ Website by https://www.kellyrdwyer.com/ Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, September 15, 2021
Ciderology (DELICIOUS APPLE BEVERAGE) with Gabe Cook
How ya like them apples?! Well, liquified. And fermented. Author, podcaster, cider-maker and globally lauded beverage historian Gabe Cook, aka The Ciderologist, is an enthusiastic champion of this tragically overlooked drink, and he joins with a bushel full of facts, well-spun yarns and tasting tips. Belly up for a foaming glass of friendly competition, bucolic farmhouses, DIY cider tips, film flam busters, cider recommendations from a pro, and a little ASMR. Cider: that cool friend in the corner who is too shy to boast about itself, so its wingman speaks up. His website: https://www.theciderologist.com/ Follow him at https://twitter.com/theciderologist and https://www.instagram.com/ciderologist First book, Ciderology: https://www.amazon.com/Ciderology-History-Heritage-Craft-Revolution/dp/1846015650 His NEW book, Modern British Ciders: https://camra.org.uk/modern-british-cider/ A donation went to: https://tinychanges.com/ More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/ciderology Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of www.thewordary.com/ Website by https://www.kellyrdwyer.com/ Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, September 08, 2021
Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) with Laurie Santos
HAPPINESS RESEARCH, straight up. What is happiness? How do our circumstances affect happiness? Why is the word “gratitude” kinda cringey? What can we do to feel better? Should we feel guilty for feeling happy? When is positivity “toxic?” Yale cognitive scientist, Eudemonologist, and host of The Happiness Lab podcast Dr. Laurie Santos chats about how scientists measure human happiness and what their research has shown helps achieve it, even during the worst of times. Also: silver medal face & countering counterfactuals, which will make sense when you listen. Follow Dr. Lauri Santos https://instagram.com/lauriesantosofficial Her podcast: https://www.happinesslab.fm Donations went to DonorsChoose.org More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/eudemonology Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of www.thewordary.com/ Website by https://www.kellyrdwyer.com/ Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, September 01, 2021
Spesh Ep: Functional Magic's Environmental Art with C. Andrew Hall
Art meets science! Problems meet solutions! Climate change meets … hope? In this atypical episode, things get casual as hell as Alie sits down to talk about Functional Magic: an illustration non-profit started by filmmaker, Emmy-nominated television editor and longtime friend Andy Hall. (Note: Functional Magic began as the Drawdown Design Project but has since been re-named!) When he’s not having to edit Alie on Innovation Nation, Andy is the founder and creative director of the Drawdown Design Project, which commissioned some of the world’s most sought-after artists to illustrate climate solutions outlined by Drawdown.org. What resulted was the just-released limited-edition 200 print run of ENGAGE, EMPOWER, CULTIVATE and ELECTRIFY. Andy walks me through the passion, the production and the process of raising money for rainforests while making something gorgeous and uplifting. Also: I used to serve snacks on film sets. Get one of the 200 limited-edition Drawdown Design Project prints Follow Functional Magic on Instagram and maybe win a poster! More info on climate solutions at Drawdown.org More about the illustrators ENGAGE by Brian Steely CULTIVATE by Tula Lotay EMPOWER by Khary Randolph ELECTRIFY by Malleus A donation went to Rainforest Coalition More episode sources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary <
Tue, August 24, 2021
Is Your Carbon Footprint BS?: How to Save a Planet takes over Ologies
Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson. You loved her Oceanology episode and now she is in your feed to address everyone’s agonizing internal question: IS MY CARBON FOOTPRINT BS?! I don’t drop a lot of podcast episodes into my precious Ologies feed, but this topic was so wonderfully covered by Dr. Johnson and co-hot Alex Blumberg that I had to do it. And as a bonus, stay tuned for Wednesday’s episode between me and my old friend C. Andrew Hall, the creative director of the non-profit illustration collective, the Drawdown Design Project. I’ve been consulting with him for 2 years on a giant project that just dropped and I think you’ll love what he has to say about our individual roles and responsibilities in climate change. So yes: onward with “How to Save a Planet.” Listen to Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson’s Oceanology episode: https://www.alieward.com/ologies/oceanology2 Drawdown Design project: https://drawdowndesignproject.org/ Follow the Drawdown Design Project: https://www.instagram.com/drawdowndesignproject/ Buy Dr. Johnson’s book! https://www.allwecansave.earth Her podcast: “How to Save a Planet:” https://gimletmedia.com/shows/howtosaveaplanet Dr. Johnson's collective: https://www.allwecansave.earth/ Dr. Johnson on Twitter @ayanaeliza and Instagram @ayanaeliza Dr. Johnson's website: ayanaelizabeth.com Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Mon, August 23, 2021
Smologies #4: BEES with Amanda Shaw
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 YA LIKE BEES? You will -- after this short, edited-for-all-ages Smologies cut of our classic Melittology episode featuring President of the Urban Beekeepers Association, Amanda “Mandy” Shaw. We chat about honeybees vs. native ones, hives vs. nests, honey, how to become a beekeeper, social structures, why a queen becomes a queen, how to keep Mason bees as outdoor pets, if you should eat honey to deal with seasonal allergies, and why planting some flowers could make you and the bees pretty happy. Listen to the ORIGINAL, juicy, swear-filled version of Melittology More Smologies episodes Follow Mandy on Twitter and Instagram Mandy’s podcast! Mandy Shaw’s Bella Beek: Handcrafted Beekeeping Veils, Tools and Gifts Donations were made to Pollinator Partnership and Xerces Society Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Tue, August 17, 2021
Indigenous Fire Ecology (GOOD FIRE) with Amy Christianson
Cultural burns. Prescribed blazes. A healthy forest. What exactly is “good fire?” Let’s ask Indigenous fire scientist Dr. Amy Christianson, who is a co-host of the podcast ...Good Fire. This wonderfully generous and informed scholar took a quick break from her Canadian wilderness vacation to fill me in on Indigenous history, collaborations between Western science & First Nations elders, Aboriginal thoughts on cultural burns, flim-flam, evacuations, snowmelt, hunting strategies, land stewardship, happy trees, climate strategies, and the social science behind wildfire education. Also learning from Native wildfire fighters. Huge thanks to her and Matt Kristoff -- who also hosts the Your Forest Podcast -- for allowing us to use excerpts from their interview to launch Good Fire. Subscribe to both podcasts to get more ecological knowledge in your ears. Follow Dr. Amy Christianson on Twitter Listen to the “Good Fire” podcast Also great: Your Forest podcast A donation was made to Indigenous Residential School Survivors More episode sources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Tue, August 10, 2021
Fire Ecology (WILDFIRES) with Gavin Jones
As Smashmouth said, “My world’s on fire, how ‘bout yours?” Why yes, Mr. Mouth, it is, indeed, on fire. As so many of us around the globe are sharing in this burning sensation, what better time than now to sit down and fire off a lot of questions at Fire Ecologist, Dr. Gavin Jones. We talk about what fire is, how hot it burns, fire trends, tinderboxes, lots and lots of forest fire flim-flam, tolerant wombats, Angelina Jolie Movies, cunning pine cones, thick bark, Indigenous fire stewardship and more. This episode might get you pretty heated but that’ll only release seeds of new ideas and hope, because it's serotinous. That bad joke will make sense after you listen. Follow Dr. Gavin Jones on Twitter A donation was made to The Common Good Community Foundation More episode sources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Thu, August 05, 2021
Smologies #3: TOADS with Priya Nanjappa
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Ohaaay another edited-down, classroom-friendly Smologies! About... toads! Are they frogs? Do they have arms? What do they eat? How long do they live? What’s with the warts? Amphibian enthusiast Priya Nanjappa joins with a toadally awesome episode that will change the way you crouch down and shake hands with your tiny backyard grumpa.(And for the full version with NSFW stories, the link is below.) New full-length episodes of Ologies drop Tuesdays, and new Smologies come out every other Thursday. More Smologies episodes Full uncut episode of Bufology Follow Priya on Twitter and Instagram A donation was made to The Amphibian & Reptile Conservancy Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Tue, August 03, 2021
Systems Biology (MEDICAL MATHEMATICS) with Emily E. Ackerman
Biological mysteries solved with numbers! Graphs! Patterns! Data points! Systems biology! You never knew it existed, yet it’s keeping us alive. Systems Biologist Dr. Emily E. Ackerman join to chat about why the field appealed to her, how her work shifted during the pandemic, why she wants to scream at Excel sometimes, how computing might replace specific types of animal testing, accessibility in STEM, the immune system, why she loves being a disabled scientist and advocate, the ethics of CRISPR, and some really nice guy named Doug. Dr. Emily E. Ackerman’s website emilyeackerman.com Follow her at Twitter.com/EmilyEAckerman More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/systemsbiology A donation was made to HEARD: https://behearddc.org/ Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of www.thewordary.com/ Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, July 27, 2021
Lampyridology (FIREFLIES) aka Sparklebuttology with Sara Lewis
We’re BACK! With a fresh new episode to light up your life and butt. World renowned firefly expert Dr. Sara Lewis of Tufts University joins to share her love of a bug that many think is merely a mythological delight. Learn how these tiny animals illuminate the night, the dos and don’ts of firefly observation, how to take good firefly photos, femme fatales, pink glowworms, secret languages, artificial lights, what’s up with their population numbers, why Western states can chill out with their lightning bug envy, and how you can ensure the world stays aglow with these beloved bugs. Also: nuptial gifts, both human and lampyridological. Dr. Sara Lewis’s website silentsparks.com Buy her book, Silent Sparks: The Wondrous World of Fireflies ! Follow her at Twitter.com/silent_spark More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/sparklebuttology A donation went to: Xerces.org Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of www.thewordary.com/ Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, July 20, 2021
Smologies #2: DINOSAURS with Paleontologist Michael Habib
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 We cleaned up the full version and polished it into a safe-for-work digest of dinosaur facts and tales from a paleontologist with Dr. Michael Habib. Learn about the economics of a dino dig, his favorite beasts, cloning from amber samples, which museum dinos are real vs. fakes, Jurassic Park flimflam and more. (And for the full version with NSFW stories, the link is below.) New full-length episodes of Ologies drop Tuesdays, and new Smologies come out every other Thursday. More Smologies episodes Full, uncut, NSFW episode on Paleontology Follow Dr. Michael Habib on Twitter and Instagram A donation went to nhm.org Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Tue, July 20, 2021
Smologies #1: THE MOON with Selenologist Raquel Nuno
ANNOUNCEMENT: SMOLOGIES NOW HAS ITS OWN FEED! SUBSCRIBE FOR NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY. Subscribe to Smologies: https://pod.link/1746567248 Introducing… SMOLOGIES. Smaller, shorter, G-rated episodes cut from your favorite classics. Listen to Smologies in classrooms, around people whose language is squeaky clean, and in safe-for-work settings. You get bite-sized info in a jiffy, and I get to reserve my filthy language for our longer, regular episodes that drop on Tuesdays. In this episode, planetary geologist Raquel Nuno chats about when the moon formed, what its made of, how moon phases work, gravity, conspiracy theories debunked, the far side of the moon, lunar caves and why she pulls out the telescope to stare at the sky every night. Full, uncut, original Selenology episode More Smologies episodes Raquel Nuno's website and Instagram A donation went to the The Planetary Society Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts and bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm
Fri, July 16, 2021
Elasmobranchology (MORE NEW SHARK STORIES) with MISS_Elasmo Shark Scientists
Lemon sharks! Goblin sharks! Bonnet sharks! Whale sharks! And ...sawfish? WE NEEDED A BIGGER BOAT. One shark episode was not enough, during this: The Week of the Shark. Sure, Alie just got married a few days ago, but that doesn’t mean we can’t throw together this bundle of wonder with a few of the incredible researchers from Minorities in Shark Science. Get ready to befriend Jaida Elcock, Jasmin Graham, and Amani Webber-Schultz as they spin yarns about wild field stories, explain why they love sharks, debunk common flim flams, quote favorite shark flicks, and make sure appreciate the stunning diversity and evolution of these ancient creatures. Sharks: nicer than a holy water vending machine. (That’ll make sense later.) MISS: Minorities in Shark Science on Twitter Jaida Elcock on Twitter and TikTok Jasmin Graham on Twitter Amani Webber-Schultz on Twitter and check out the hashtag #HowItPants MISS co-founder Carlee Jackson A donation went to: MISS (Minorities in Shark Science) Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, July 13, 2021
Selachimorphology (SHARKS) Encore with Chris Lowe
SHAAAARKS. Leading shark researcher Dr. Chris Lowe dishes about bad shark PR, behind-the-scenes Jaws trivia, his thoughts on Sharknado , surfing safety, immune system marvels, cannibal twins, shark personalities, sea sex, and knife teeth in this, an encore-but-refreshed episode with your newly married pod-dad. Alie learns that sharks are not the ocean's a-holes but true evolutionary marvels who suffer from sensationalized reputations and sometimes inside-out butts. Listen up as a science primer during this, the holy Week of the Shark. (Note: the study of sharks is also called elasmobranchology, a distinction which could also include skates and rays. Both -ologies are difficult to spell.) Dr. Chris Lowe's SharkLab at Cal State University Long Beach Track sharks and fish and turtles at Scattn.org Dr. Lowe's Twitter and Facebook More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/selachimorphology A donation went to: http://www.misselasmo.org/ Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, July 06, 2021
Matrimoniology (MARRIAGE) Encore with Ben Karney
A special encore as your dad hastily preps to wed your podmom, Jarrett. Refresh your brain about your heart, then stay tuned for a new secret at the end. Love! Romance! Intimate relationships! Marriage! Divorce! Remarriage! Clowns! This episode has it all. The wonderfully warm Dr. Benjamin Karney of the UCLA Marriage lab has been studying romance and intimate relationships for 20 years and sits down to chat about being single and the mechanisms behind finding a partner, what behaviors foster intimacy, why some couples stay together vs. splitting up, some bananas proposals, wedding budgets, how parenting affects marriage, historical problems with matrimony and his own experiences with marriage and divorce. These behaviors are also so applicable to friendships, work partnerships and as it turns out...professional clowns. Dr. Ben Karney at the UCLA Marriage Lab This week's donation was made to Care.org , which works to end gender-based violence. Juuuust in case you want to toss anything in the travel jar to ease wedding costs for others: https://www.zola.com/registry/jarrettandalie Sponsor links: alieward.com/ologies/sponsors More links at alieward.com/ologies/matrimoniology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, June 29, 2021
UFOlogy (UNEXPLAINED AERIAL PHENOMENA) with Sarah Scoles and Kate Dorsch
UFOs are real. Straight up. There are unidentified objects flying around — but does that mean they’re aliens? Two experts in the research and culture of Unexplained Aerial Phenomena (UAPs) -- science journalist/author Sarah Scoles and Dr. Kate Dorsch, a scholar in the History and Sociology of Science -- joined Alie moments after Friday’s breaking news of the Pentagon’s UAP report. Strap in for “tic tacs,” space rocks, black triangles, fighter pilot sightings, Roswell, abduction trends, secret military missions, surprising conclusions, and the -ologists’ own wacky field experience researching UFOs … and the people obsessed with hunting town the truth. Which is out there. Follow Sarah Scoles and Kate Dorsch on Twitter Learn more about Sarah Scoles And Dr. Kate Dorsch Buy Sarah’s new book, “They Are Already Here: UFO Culture and Why We See Saucers” Or Sarah’s previous book “Making Contact” A donation went to Friends of the Denver Public Library More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, June 22, 2021
Spheksology (WASPS) with Eric Eaton
Wasps!? Don’t even THINK of skipping this one, my beautiful chickens. You’re about to change your outlook on the most maligned winged sky babies, and we are delighted that author, bug dude, and spheksologist Eric Eaton is about to change your mind and fill your heart with respect and appreciation. Hunker down for fig critters, bejeweled zombie queens, bug corsets, underdogs, BBQ tips, gardening secrets, stinger myths and snack vaults. Just because homicidal hornets make headlines doesn’t mean you know squat about the real life of the beautifully diverse world of wasps, from the teeny tiny to the large and legendary. Wasps: they’re not dicks. Buy Eric's book wherever books are sold Check out Eric’s website Follow Eric on Twitter A donation went to Xerces.org More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Need a website built? Kelly Dwyer has you covered! Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, June 15, 2021
Quarantinology (UM, WHAT HAPPENS NOW?) with Various Ologists
Lifted restrictions! Discarded masks! Vaxxing & relaxing! Parties. Variant confusion. FOMO while also dreading events. Worry about strangers. Grief for a cancelled year. WHAT’S HAPPENING HERE? We’ve got you covered. As infection rates go down and restrictions lift in the U.S., you may feel: relieved, overjoyed, nude without a mask, guilty about surviving, conflicted about gatherings, or mourning a loss. We gathered a small army of experts to chat about historical quarantines and recovery periods, vaccine rates, economic projections, the mental state of healthcare workers and the grief that can follow an historical event. Geoff Manaugh and Nicola Twilley (of Gastropod) join to chat about researching their stellar new book “Until Proven Safe,” Jessica Malaty-Rivera updates us on vaccine rates and variants, Dr. Mike Natter checks in from New York and thanatologist Cole Imperi gives step-by-step instructions for taking care of your brain during transitions and “shadowlosses.” I hope this episode serves you well; I just really needed to make it. Pre-order Geoff Manaugh and Nicola Twilley’s book Until Proven Safe: The History and Future of Quarantine ; more info at untilprovensafe.com Follow Nicola and Geoff on Twitter Follow Cole Imperi on Instagram at @Imperi and @americanthanatologist Follow Jessica Malaty-Rivera on Instagram and Twitter Follow Dr. Mike Natter on Instagram Donations were made to: #IndiaAgainstCoronaVirus , 500 Women Scientists , and The School of American Thanatology More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com ha
Tue, June 08, 2021
Wildlife Ecology (FIELDWORK) with Corina Newsome
Human-sucking mud holes. Beautiful birdsongs. Early mornings. Eyeball gnats. Stunning vistas. The long-awaited episode with ornithologist Corina Newsome is finally here and we talk all about the day-to-day-realities of being a Wildlife Ecologist. She dishes about working in zoos, getting her masters, housing for grad students, nest checking, birding apps, camera traps, #BlackBirdersWeek, and more. She is hilarious, informative, and dedicated to her work in avian conservation and truly has the best laugh. Also: saxophones in the bushes and whether or not animals are laughing at her. Visit Corina Newsome’s website , Instagram and Twitter A donation was made to SkypeAScientist.com More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Tue, June 01, 2021
Phallology (PENISES) with Emily Willingham
Dongs. Schlongs. Peters. Intromittent organs. Gamete cannons. Biologist, gonad researcher, and Phallologist Dr. Emily Willingham joins to chat about peckers big and small, plain and fancy, barbed, coiled, colossal, pickled, and efficient. Also on the agenda: how the pressures of masculinity affect self-image, what actually contributes to a partner’s pleasure, what can cause willies to go wonky (and how to get back on track,) life beyond the binary, and sensual turtles. Stick around to the end for friendly fellatio advice from penis-owners; boy howdy it’s a hard episode to pass up. Visit Emily's website and Twitter Purchase her book, Phallacy: Life Lessons from the Animal Penis A donation was made to Doctors Without Borders More episode sources and links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Tue, May 25, 2021
Pinnipedology (SEALS & WALRUSES) with Luis A. Hückstädt
Seals. Sea lions. Walruses. Walrus dongs. Classic Ologies. We sit down with Luis A Hückstädt , PhD and talk about blubber, ocean currents, psychedelic teeth, whisker tech, receding ice, boops, snoots, barks, butt nubbins and whether or not that one seal from the video actually felt bashful about getting that fish cake? Or was it a sea lion? Which is which? Spoiler: you’ll find out in this episode of Ologies: Pinnipedology. Follow Luis on Twitter: https://twitter.com/luishuckstadt And Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lahuckst/ A donation from this episode went to https://www.feedingnunavut.com/ and also to www.alaskasealife.org Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/pinnipedology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Transcripts by Emily White of https://www.thewordary.com/ Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Sat, May 22, 2021
Bonus Feed Drop: Implicit Bias on the REAL GOOD podcast
Ohulloh! This is not your regular Ologies episode (which will come on Tuesday per usual.) It’s actually not an Ologies episode! This is a fun little bonus GUEST podcast we're dropping in our feed. Real Good is a show that started during the beginning of COVID to highlight different non-profits helping with the pandemic — but soon revealed that many problems that became so acute during quarantine had existed in people's lives for a long time prior. We care a lot about the issues they address (race, class, gender, mental health, affordable housing, etc.) so we were down to partner up with Real Good and share an episode of theirs with the always thoughtful, kind, and generous Ologies audience in our own feed. This is the second episode of their second season entitled "Just Admitting It Isn't Enough with Lynda Negron.” Lynda served as program director of an anti-implicit bias training organization. If you dig the show you can subscribe to it wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.stitcher.com/show/real-good And this Tuesday, get ready for the usual Ologies fare, as we deep dive with the most boopable aquatic beasts. Burbye. Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, May 18, 2021
Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) with @BlackForager, Alexis Nikole Nelson
Mustard gossip. Knotweed recipes. Cow parsnips. Serviceberry appreciation. Hogweed warnings. Dead man’s fingers. The incredibly knowledgeable and entertaining Alexis Nikole Nelson a.k.a. @BlackForager walks us through Foraging Ecology with a ginormous bushel of tips & tricks for finding edibles at all times of the year, from blossoms to fungus. Belly up for some invasive snacks, elusive mushrooms, magnolia cookies, mugwort potatoes, violet cocktails, foraging guides, weed trivia and tips to avoid poisonous berries. Also: finding community, history, land stewardship and why foraging is important, empowering and quite tasty. Also MAY 18th, 5pm Pacific. WARD'S DOING A VIRTUAL LIVE SHOW. Tickets available here: https://onlocationlive.com/category/ologies Follow Alexis @BlackForager on Instagram.com/blackforager , TikTok.com/blackforager , Twitter.com/blackforager A donation went to: BackyardBasecamp.org Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/foragingecology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Transcripts by Emily White of https://www.thewordary.com/ Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, May 12, 2021
Biomineralogy (SHELLS) with Robert Ulrich
Bones. Shells. Reefs. Teeth. Biomineralogy. The wonderful UCLA geochemist Rob Ulrich answers a giant pile of questions such as: How do crystalline structures materialize out of thin air and water? How do squishy animals make such hard shells? What’s the difference between a shell and an exoskeleton? What’s the noise you hear when you listen to a seashell? What’s up with ocean acidification? How do you keep a fiddle leaf tree alive? How do you meet new friends without battling LA traffic? Start by becoming virtual BFFs with this -ologist, who is shella cool... Also MAY 18th, 5pm Pacific. WARD'S DOING A VIRTUAL LIVE SHOW. Tickets available here: https://onlocationlive.com/category/ologies Rob’s website: https://www.robertnulrich.com Follow Rob at https://twitter.com/robertnulrich & instagram.com/biomineralogist Queer & Trans in STEM: https://twitter.com/QueersInSTEM . A donation went to: https://www.ioes.ucla.edu/diversity/ Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/biomineralogy Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Transcripts by Emily White of https://www.thewordary.com/ Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, May 04, 2021
Speech Language Pathology (TALKING DOGS... AND PEOPLE) with Christina Hunger
Talking dogs. Rolled Rs. That dangly thing in the back of your throat. Speech impediments. Alternative forms of communication. And talking cats. World famous speech pathologist by day, dog whisperer also by day, Christina Hunger MA, CCC-SLP joins us to talk about what those letters after her name mean, helping people literally find their voice, AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), different types of language and communication, and how she applied the same principles to gift her dog with the ability to emotionally manipulate her. A tale as old as time. Learn about emerging schools of thought around the ethics of differing modes of interpersonal communication, and just maybe how you can teach your most beloved angels how to demand more cheese in plain language. Also: WARD'S DOING A VIRTUAL LIVE SHOW ON MAY 18TH. Tickets available here: https://onlocationlive.com/category/ologies Christina’s website: https://www.hungerforwords.com/ Follow her and Stella at: https://www.instagram.com/hunger4words/ Get her book! It’s great, seriously. https://www.hungerforwords.com/book/ A donation went to https://italkautism.com/ Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/speechpathology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Transcripts by Emily White of https://www.thewordary.com/ Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, April 27, 2021
Maritime Archaeology (SHIPWRECKS) with Chanelle Zaphiropoulos
Shipwrecks. Treasure. Sunken planes. Scuttled submarines. New life forming around old machinery. There’s an -ology for that -- just ask Maritime Archaeologist and wreck nerd Chanelle Zaphiropoulos. This absolutely charming and passionate scuba diver, history buff and antiquities scholar dishes about pirates, warships, admirals worth admiring, and ships ranging in size from water taxis to the Costa Concordia and Titanic. Also world record diving stats, war graves, how owning a fountain pen can be egregious and why a Midwestern coal barge from the 1970’s is worthy of weeping over. Ahoy! Follow Chanelle at Twitter.com/sharksandwrecks and Instagram.com/sharksandwrecks A donation went to Diving with a Purpose: https://divingwithapurpose.org/ Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/maritimearchaeology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, April 21, 2021
Proptology (THEATER & FILM PROPS) with Jay Duckworth
Real skulls. Fake pistols. Vegan steaks. Onstage bonfires. Cursed productions. Industry secrets and more with the world’s most lovable and beloved prop master, Professor Jay Duckworth aka @Proptologist on TikTok. A veteran of stage and screen and now an adjunct professor at Pace University, Jay chats about props vs. wardrobe vs. set design, how he keeps tracks of the thousands of items used to make a set feel real, what it was like to work on Hamilton from the very beginning, a prop master’s tool belt, design heroes, the importance of art -- and sanitation workers -- and why you should always carry a Moleskein notebook. Also: his 3 tips to having a long and successful career. Get ready to fall in love. Follow Professor Duckworth at: https://www.tiktok.com/@proptologist twitter.com/jayduck9 Instagram.com/jayduck9 His website is: https://www.proptologist.com/ Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ProfDuckworths Redbubble shop: https://www.redbubble.com/people/proptologist/shop A donation went to The National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center, Inc., NIWRC.org More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/proptology Sponsors of the show: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors To become a patron: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, pins, totes, shirts, etc. Follow Ologies on Instagra m or Twitter Follow Alie Ward on Instagram or Twitter.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper Music by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, April 14, 2021
Ursinology Part 2 (BEARS) with Thea Bechshoft, Lana Ciarniello, Drew Hamilton, Wes Larson, Tsalani Lassiter & Danielle Rivet
Because one bears is not enough bears, SIX more ursinologists join to answer your questions about polar bear fur, monogamy, that scene from "The Revenant" and more. Five chapters of bear life, from mindblowing mating strategies to how bears get from point A to B, media portrayals of these beautiful beasts and how to save them. Also: do bears want you to sing to them? Bear biologists and conservationists Dr. Thea Bechshoft, Dr. Lana Ciarniello, Drew Hamilton, Wes Larson, Tsalani Lassiter & Danielle Rivet field more of the 500 listener questions and it gets… wild. Follow all of these Ursinologists: Instagram.com/tsalani , https://twitter.com/grizzlygirl87 , Instagram.com/drewhh ; https://twitter.com/LanaCiarniello , https://twitter.com/biothea , Instagram.com/GrizKid Donations went to: www.friendsofmcneilriver.org , Idaho Black Bear rehab , Northern Lights Wildlife Shelter , Polarbearsinternational.org , Grizzly Bear Foundation More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/Ursinology To become a patron: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, pins, totes, shirts, etc. Follow Ologies on Instagra m or Twitter Follow Alie Ward on Instagram or Twitter.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper Music by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, April 07, 2021
Ursinology (BEARS) with Chris Morgan
Grizzlies. Pandas. Black bears. Chonkers. The episode you’ve begged for with scientist, explorer, and Ursinologist Chris Morgan. Why are bear ears so cute? What’s up with hibernation? How do you play nice with bears? What is it like to hug them? How creepy is Teddy Ruxpin? Panda patterns, fat bear competitions, tooth nubbins, land “bridges,” camping tips and more with host of “The Wild” podcast and your new favorite bedtime story teller. Also: bear butt plugs. Really. Listen to The Wild podcast Follow Chris Morgan on Twitter and Instagram A donation went to Wildlife Media More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, pins, totes, shirts, etc. Follow Ologies on Instagra m or Twitter Follow Alie Ward on Instagram or Twitter.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, March 30, 2021
Oology (EGGS) Encore + Bonus Material with John Bates
This encore includes tons of previously cut and never-before-heard bonus material (and maybe an eggregious number of sidenotes) about how perfect and weird eggs are. The biggest eggs! The smallest eggs! The people arrested for stealing the most eggs! Oologist Dr. John Bates gives Alie a tour of the egg vault at the Field Museum of Chicago and it was a barrage of beautiful sights and shocking facts about bird butts. Get ready for speckly eggs, falcon tales, delicate treasures, snake nesting, pigeon mysteries, modern research with old artifacts, Easter trivia, and whether or not you can hatch chickens from grocery store eggs. Also the carnival ride Alie will never ever ever go on. Field Museum of Chicago The Book of Eggs To become a patron: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, pins, totes, shirts, etc. Follow Ologies on Instagra m or Twitter Follow Alie Ward on Instagram or Twitter.com More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/Oology2 Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper Music by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, March 23, 2021
Fanthropology Pt. 2 (FANDOM) with Meredith Levine
PART 2 with legit professional Fanthropologist Meredith Levine. In this thrilling conclusion, we take Patreon questions and address stans vs. fans, cults and fandom, how fan fiction circumvents the studio system, how showrunners feel about fan suggestions, fangirling, fanboying and a novel term for that plus a bonus tables-are-turned interview about your weird dad’s favorite stuff. Fanthroplogy: a riveting field. Once again, WHO KNEW? Meredith did. Listen to Part 1 here: alieward.com/ologies/fanthropology Follow Meredith Levine at Twitter.com/meredithgene or @MeredithGene on Clubhouse. A donation was made to Partners in Health's and the Sierra Leonean Ministry of Health’s work to reduce maternal mortality in Sierra Leone's Kono District via: http://pih.org/hankandjohn Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at: http://alieward.com/ologies/fanthropology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, March 16, 2021
Fanthropology (FANDOM) with Meredith Levine
Why does some music give us butterflies? Why do we loooove certain comic books, social media accounts or TV characters? What story does your toothpaste tell? Legit professional Fanthropologist Meredith Levine is a fount of fandom knowledge and we chat all about everything from cosplay to K-Pop, Star Wars, Frasier, Trekkies, fan-fic, how influencer culture works, the algorithms, and how loving what we love is a form of self-care. WHO KNEW? Meredith did. Follow Meredith Levine at Twitter.com/meredithgene or @MeredithGene on Clubhouse. A donation was made to Partners in Health's and the Sierra Leonean Ministry of Health’s work to reduce maternal mortality in Sierra Leone's Kono District via: http://pih.org/hankandjohn Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at: http://alieward.com/ologies/fanthropology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, March 09, 2021
Nephrology (KIDNEYS) with Samira Farouk
What’s in pee? Should you donate a kidney to a stranger? Which hurts worse: childbirth or kidney stones? Why are some kidneys the size of footballs? March is World Kidney Month and before you shrug it off: 15% of adults have chronic kidney disease -- and most don’t even know it. This episode could save a life. Transplant Nephrologist Dr. Samira Farouk chats about how nephrology is for cool kids, how transplant chains work, legends about bathtubs filled with ice, how dialysis works, where nephrology ends and urology begins, how much water you should drink and why kidney punches aren’t allowed in boxing. Also: asparagus pee and #NephMadness. Follow Dr. Samira Farouk at Twitter.com/ssfarouk or @nehmadness Check out # NephMadness and nephmadness.com Interested in being a living donor? Here’s some info . A donation was made to the American Association of Kidney Patients, AAKP.org Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at: http://alieward.com/ologies/nephology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow Dr. Samira Farouk at Twitter.com/ssfarouk or @nehmadness Check out # NephMadness Interested in being a living donor? Here’s some info . A donation was made to the American Association of Kidney Patients, AAPK.org Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at: http://alieward.com/ologies/nephology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Support the show: http://Patreo
Wed, March 03, 2021
Cicadology (CICADAS) with Gene Kritsky
They are numerous. They are patient. They are COMING for the United States in droves this spring: They are cicadas. *The* Cicada guy Dr. Gene Kritsky joins to chat all about the annual cicadas you may see every summer vs. the periodical ones that cycle through the states in broods of giant numbers. Learn how they survive underground for decades, what they are doing down there, all about their lifecycle, who eats them and why, plus get inspired to take a cicada safari, download Cicada Safari , and appreciate their sexually desperate songs, which can be as loud as an ambulance. By the end, you’ll want to don a bug costume and hitchhike to the Midwest. (Don’t do that.) Dr. Gene Kritsky’s new cicada book: Periodical Cicadas: The Brood X Edition Download the Cicada Safari app at the Apple Store or Google Play Store . Gene’s website: genekritsky.com Also see CicadaMania.com , and follow Instagram.com/CicadaMania A donation was made to Mount Saint Joseph’s cicada research in the School of Behavioral and Natural Sciences Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at: alieward.com/ologies/cicadalogy Gene’s wife Jessee J. Smith is a silversmith who makes bug jewelry. Check it out ! Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 23, 2021
Gluteology (BUTTS) with Natalia Reagan
Yes, an entire episode on butts. Primatologist and anthropologist Natalia Reagan joins to chat about the caboose: why do we have butts? Why do we like butts? How do we appreciate ours even more? She drops knowledge on bidets, wiping, twerking, the mystical field of Rumpology, how our derrieres have our back, plus butt dimples, and crack formations. Also: some personal revelations and getting back on your feet after a curveball. This one is goofy as hell and you’re in for more puns than you’ll know what do do with. Follow Natalia at Twitter.com/Natalia13Reagan and Instagram.com/Natalia13Reagan Natalia’s website: https://nataliareagan.com A donation was made to https://projectchimps.org/ Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at: alieward.com/ologies/gluteology If you want a bidet, here's a code for 10% off: HelloTushy.com/ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 16, 2021
Molecular Biology (PROTEINS + SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) with Raven “The Science Maven” Baxter
This one’s got it all: teeny tiny cellular factories, obscure trivia, historical gossip, sick beats, mitochondrial relevancy, viral popularity, a backstory that with charm you to death, sports cars, lab coats, smelly vats, Space Camp and mysteries of the brain. Raven The Science Maven has a background in molecular biology and is getting her Ph.D in Science Communication and shares stories from both disciplines, while Alie generally does her best to suppress high pitched noises of excitement. Learn to appreciate your proteins and pick up some ADHD tips and noodle analogies while you’re here. That’s so Maven! Follow Raven at https://www.instagram.com/raventhesciencemaven or https://twitter.com/ravenscimaven Raven’s website: scimaven.com and YouTube A donation was made to Projectforawesome.com Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/molecularbiology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, February 10, 2021
Carobology (NOT-CHOCOLATE TREES) with Megan Lynch
You might only know carob as not-chocolate, which is a tragedy of its disco-era branding. This tough, gnarly, drought-resistant plant is the real-life Giving Tree, explains passionate Carobologist Megan Lynch. Dripping with leathery banana-shaped legume pods, this tree quietly dots suburban streets but has kept people alive through wars and famines, can feed livestock, makes beautiful furniture, and might cure ailments from neurodegenerative diseases to the dark depths of your irritable bowels. Oh also? It can stand in for chocolate if you need it to. LET’S SHOW SOME RESPECT. Megan also chats about the #DisabilitiesinSTEM movement, academic gatekeeping, and making science more accessible. And cheesecakes. Follow Megan Lynch at Twitter.com/May_Gun Megan’s website: http://meganlynch.net/ A donation was made to STEMd.org Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/carobology Buy Megan’s album! “ Songs the Brothers Warner Taught Me ” Other Ologies episodes mentioned: Matrimoniology (MARRIAGE) , Sexology (SEX) , Entomophagy Anthropology (EATING BUGS) , Corvid Thanatology (CROW FUNERALS) , Molecular Neurobiology (NEUROTRANSMITTERS) , Experimental Archeology (ATLATLS) Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 02, 2021
Economic Sociology Pt. 2 (MONEY/FREAKONOMICS) with Steven Levitt and Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman
Part 2 is here! Gamestop, #stonks, Universal Basic Income, how to incentivize things that are good for us, whether or not kids should have an allowance, Trekonomics and more. Economist, professor and “Freakonomics” co-author Steven Levitt joins to chat about everything from being cheap and what decision making costs our minds to the worth of the Amazon rainforest. Rising economics star and Harvard Fellow Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman graces us with her thoughts on the subreddit WallStreetBets, how we measure the health of the economy, dealing with bullies, and Gossip Girl. Hey, watch out: you’re about to like Economics. Follow Anna Gift Opoku-Agymen at Twitter.com/itsafronomics and Instagram.com/itsafronomics Follow Steven Levitt at Twitter.com/stevendlevitt or Twitter.com/Freakonomics A donation was made to RISC: risc.uchicago.edu Steven’s podcast is People I (Mostly) Admire: https://freakonomics.com/pima/ Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/economicsociology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 26, 2021
Economic Sociology Pt. 1 (MONEY/FREAKONOMICS) with Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman and Steven Levitt
Choices! Trade-offs! Money! How much should you save? And how much should stimulus checks be? Don’t be scared by the term “economics,” especially since it doesn’t end in -ology. This 2-part Economic Sociology bonanza addresses the behavior that motivates the fiscal systems of the world, from avocado toast to retirement funds. Economist, professor and “Freakonomics” co-author Steven Levitt joins to chat about why we learn too much of the wrong math and how everything from marriage to dinner parties involves little choices rooted in economic principles. Rising economics star and Harvard Fellow Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman graces us with her thoughts on macroeconomics, human capital, when to outsource your work and how she realized she loved Econ. Also: how these interviews helped me make one of my life’s biggest decisions. Follow Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman at Twitter.com/itsafronomics and Instagram.com/itsafronomics Follow Steven Levitt at Twitter.com/stevendlevitt or Twitter.com/Freakonomics A donation was made to: https://www.sadiecollective.org/ Steven’s podcast is People I (Mostly) Admire: https://freakonomics.com/pima/ Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/economicsociology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 19, 2021
Bilharziology (BLOOD FLUKES) with Anouk N. Gouvras
A LOST EPISODE! Three years in the making, this interview features vials of vile creatures, worm drama, febrile hallucinations, spooning, and unfortunate snacks. It has waited a long time to meet you, so let’s get weird, take a trip back to summer of 2017 -- before Ologies existed -- and unearth one of the very first, never-before-heard interviews. Alie absolutely bungles her way through a chat with Dr. Anouk Gouvras, a London-based parasitologist studying the flatworms that cause schistosomiasis. Consider this an awkward baby photo of Ologies: before the show had any format or structure, and before your host learned how to properly use sound equipment. Stay tuned for a surprise ending to the conversation, and then follow Dr. Gouvras on Twitter and tell her you’re glad to finally get an introduction. Follow Dr. Anouk Gouvras at Twitter.com/SciAnouk Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors A donation went to the The Global Schistosomiasis Alliance: eliminateschisto.org More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/bilharziology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 12, 2021
Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) with Bobby Corrigan
RATS: They love pizza. They invade taquerias at midnight. They scurry. They cuddle. They outsmart. They inspire movies that inspire musicals. Proving that not just woodsy megafauna can be charismatic, rats have lives we would never suspect. Globally-lauded Urban Rodentologist Dr. Robert Corrigan, or Bobby if you like, has been studying these animals in their big-city ecosystem for decades and he is a wonder-filled joy. Learn about rats’ origin story, the difference between a rat and a mouse, where they live, their preferred “food dialects,” and how to (hopefully humanely) keep one out of your house -- or car? Might as well start to love and respect them, because we’re not-too-distantly related and one day… they may be steering the ship. Follow Bobby at Twitter.com/Rodentologist Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors A donation went to the Yash Gandhi Foundation: https://www.ygf4icell.org/ More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/rodentology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 05, 2021
Vaccine Infodemiology (COVID-19 IMMUNITY) with Jessica Malaty Rivera
The Coronasode we’ve been waiting for! Vaccines. Finally. But what does this mean? As a Vaccine Infodemiologist and science communication lead for The COVID Tracking Project , Jessica Malaty Rivera specializes in infectious disease epidemics and the surge of misinformation that accompanies them. The very first human trials of the COVID-19 vaccine occurred in March 2020, and Alie asks Jessica one million questions about the differences between the two available vaccines, rollout schedules, herd immunity, mRNA, vaccine hesitancy, mutated virus strains, picnics, vision boards, the post-holiday spike, how history can influence current vaccine rates, whether you should wipe down your groceries and more. Consider it a critical booster shot to the info we’ve gathered all year. Follow Jessica at instagram.com/jessicamalatyrivera and Twitter.com/jessicaMalatyRivera More info on Jessica Malaty Rivera: https://linktr.ee/jessicamalatyrivera Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors A donation went to 500WomenScientists.org More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/vaccineinfodemiology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, December 29, 2020
Part 2: Dendrology (TREES) with Casey Clapp -- UPDATES + NEW INTERVIEW
Part 2 of a very special duo! The fresh catch-up interview to learn what the world’s most charming and enthusiastic tree expert, Casey Clapp, has been up to since his 2018 episode aired. He’s been busy. Listen to hear if he’s gotten more pine cone tattoos, what other trees he hates, which ones he gives 10/10, musical blunders, winter pagan traditions, and why trees may play a huge role in his personality. Also: his new podcast for your ears and heart. Follow Casey Clapp at Instagram.com/Clapp4Trees and his new podcast Instagram.com/arbortrarypod Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors A donation went to EcoTrust.org Listen to Completely Arbortrary: https://linktr.ee/arbortrarypod/ Casey's tattoo artist, Shawn Hebrank at Blood Root : https://www.instagram.com/bloodroottattoo Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, December 29, 2020
Part 1: Dendrology (TREES) with Casey Clapp -- Encore
Part 1 of a very special duo: Do trees have feelings? How do they talk? How old can they get? Are there any tree stories that will make me cry? Spoiler: YES. This episode aired in May 2018 and is worth a revisit, especially since Part 2 is a brand new 2020 interview with possibly the world's most enthusiastic tree expert, J. Casey Clapp. Learn about his many tree tattoos, new additions to those tattoos, how roots communicate to each other, "crown shyness,” social media shyness and the mental health benefits of tree proximity. Also: banana facts and Casey f*cking hates apples. Be sure to hear the fresh catch-up interview in Part 2 to learn what Casey’s been up to since this originally aired. He’s been busy. Follow Casey Clapp at Instagram.com/Clapp4Trees and his new podcast Instagram.com/arbortrarypod Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors A donation went to EcoTrust.org Listen to his podcast, Completely Arbortrary: https://linktr.ee/arbortrarypod/ Casey's tattoo artist, Shawn Hebrank at Blood Root: https://www.instagram.com/bloodroottattoo Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Bonus · Thu, December 24, 2020
Surprise Minisode! Livestream on Christmas: come hang out
Solo on the 25th? Bummed? Feeling off your usual winter game? Come hang out at 1pm Pacific on Christmas with me and other people who love bug facts and word origins and snail romance at this link. And listen to this very quick episode to find out what to wear. Livestream, 1pm Pacific, Dec. 25: https://youtu.be/B656mrA2gy4 It’s free for everyone, and all you need is the YouTube link above. (Also for fun -- here's a deeply wacky 11-minute holiday film Jarrett Sleeper just made because he is a hilarious genius: https://bit.ly/37JHJkG) Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tue, December 22, 2020
Scorpiology (SCORPIONS) with Lauren Esposito: Encore Presentation
This specific episode was cited in The New Yorker this week , so we’re giving it an encore refresh with bonus material and a 2020 update from Dr. Esposito herself! Scorpions: the victims of undue shade. If you've ever wanted to impress a date with weird facts THIS IS THE EPISODE FOR YOU. A handful of people on planet Earth have a PhD in scorpions and Dr. Lauren Esposito is one of them. She spills the beans on how venom works, what's up with the blacklight glow effect, how dangerous they *really* are, what all the movies get wrong, the best names for scorpions, where she's traveled to look under rocks, where a scorpion's butt is, if scorpions dance or make out (SPOILER: YES), what good mothers they are, how big they used to be millions of years ago and how -- technically speaking -- they are not poisonous. Also: how much does a gallon of venom cost? Oh, and why she started the visibility campaign 500 Queer Scientists. Get this one in your ears right away. Follow Dr. Esposito at twitter.com/arachnologynerd or instagram.com/caribales and check out 500QueerScientists.com Mention in The New Yorker: https://www.newyorker.com/goings-on-about-town/podcasts/lolita-podcast-12-28-20 This week's donation went to: www.Islandsseas.org Sponsor links: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at alieward.com/ologies/scorpiology2 Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, December 15, 2020
Garology (LONG CUTE ANCIENT PATIENT BOOPABLE NIGHTMARE FISH) with Solomon David
A long snout. Hundreds of teeth. Scales that could slice you. What is a gar and should we fear it? Should we hug it? One of the world’s most passionate and knowledgeable experts on this ancient, mysterious fish joins to make you fall in love with these slimy longbois. Dr. Solomon David is affable, charming, enthusiastic and absolutely shameless when it comes to fish puns. Slip into some hip waders and jump in the muck to learn all about a creature that -- despite decades of mudslinging -- is not a gar-bage fish. Also: why gar caviar is a hella bad idea. Follow Dr. Solomon David at Twitter.com/SolomonRDavid and Instagram.com/solomon.r.david Dr. Solomon David’s website: https://solomondavid.net/ A donation went to Ranger Rick at https://rangerrick.org/ , part of NWF.org Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/garology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, December 08, 2020
Space Archaeology (SPACE JUNK) with Alice Gorman
Gaze into the cosmos and wonder at broken satellites, retired rockets and shattered contraptions. Archaeologist Dr. Alice Gorman is a leading expert on orbital debris and chats about what’s up there, how it got there, and how to get it down. Strap in to hear about everything from Sputnik to sports cars, flaming garbage bonking us, alien clutter, collision potential, the most adorable space rubbish, cosmic burials and how one does this type of archeology without boarding a rocket. Also: steaming hot cruise ship gossip. Follow Dr. Alice Gorman at Twitter.com/DrSpaceJunk A donation went to Deadly Science: https://deadlyscience.org.au/ Dr. Gorman’s book: Dr. Space Junk vs. The Universe Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/spacearchaeology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, December 01, 2020
Alligator Ecotoxicology (GATOR POISONS) with Laura Kojima
Alligators, crocodiles and … a shut-down nuclear weapons plant? The excitement never ends when you’re Laura Kojima, an Alligator Ecotoxicologist. A longtime reptile cheerleader, Laura has passion to match some truly bananas stories about field work, tail smacks, gator jaws, mercury levels, swamp boats, and crocodilian evolution, overbites, and locomotion. Her incredible work keeps people -- and the gators -- safer in toxic waters and she recalls her favorite alligator bite and the one animal that sent her to the hospital. Also discussed: jorts & gator crotches. [Audio note: the connection was a little spotty so please forgive occasional static!] Follow Laura Kojima Twitter.com/laurakojima and Instagram.com/laura.kojima A donation went to the WCS wild Siamese Crocodile conservation Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/alligatorecotoxicology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, November 24, 2020
Awesomeology (GRATITUDE) with Neil Pasricha
Gratitude: what’s the deal? Does it really make us happier? Even when the world seems terrible? Or is being appreciative a bunch of hokey flim-flam? Author Neil Pasricha started a blog of 1000 Awesome Things in 2008 and it led him down rabbit holes looking into the science of gratitude and how to better survive some really tough times. Learn about your new morning ritual, how much of happiness is genetically determined, why you should sniff a tree, honeymoon drama, simple appreciation, singing while making dinner, the gambles you take while scrolling, and how your brain means well -- but can make you miserable on purpose. Also, buy one more cactus. Follow Neil Pasricha at Twitter.com/NeilPasricha and Instagram.com/NeilPasricha Neil’s website: Neil.blog 3 Books Podcast: https://www.3books.co/ A donation went to https://performancespacenewyork.org/ Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/awesomeology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, November 17, 2020
Biological Anthropology (APE SEX) with Lara Durgavich
Sexy apes: you’re one of them. And Biological Anthropologist Dr. Lara Durgavich joins to chat about everything from monogamy to PMS, male birth control pills, freezers of orangutan urine, imposter syndrome and testosterone, how the Pope makes you buy more tampons, which species has better sex, pancakes vs. boners, and boobs as a life preserver. It’s wall to wall gonad gossip and just may change the way you see yourself, you hairy, horny beautiful beast. Follow Dr. Lara Durgavich at Twitter.com/tinkeringprim8 A donation went to pasa.org/ Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/biologicalanthropology Neuroendocrinology episode with Dr. Daniel Pfau: alieward.com/ologies/neuroendocrinology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, November 11, 2020
Indigenous Fashionology (NATIVE CLOTHING) with Riley Kucheran
Fashion! Trends! Not really! This lively chat with Riley Kucheran, an Assistant Professor of Design Leadership at Ryerson University’s School of Fashion, covers everything from the history of industrialized clothing manufacture to current Indigenous designers he loves, political statements through beadwork, Indigenous art markets, and a dissection of Coachella headdresses. From Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Nation, Riley also describes his experiences climbing the corporate ladder in the fashion retail world vs. learning from elders and advising younger students during land-based education, while tanning hides in the bush. Also: uniforms, the good and the bad. Follow Riley Kucheran at Twitter.com/RSKucheran or Instagram.com/RSKucheran A donation went to Dechinta.ca Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links and info at alieward.com/ologies/indigenousfashionology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, November 03, 2020
Pedagogology (SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) with Bill Nye
BILL NYE. That’s right. Bill Freakin’ Nye sits down to get grilled by your Dadward (that’s me, Alie) all about Pedagogology, the art and science of science communication. How did the modern day hype man of facts and wonder get his start? What does he love about his job? What are the most important elements of spreading knowledge? WHICH TIE IS HIS FAVORITE TIE? We chat about everything from comedy to TV crews, what he thinks about when he goes for walks, taking risks to follow your dreams, advice from Carl Sagan, tackling climate change, what makes him optimistic and … how to be the next Bill Nye. Truly one of my most cherished episodes; it brought me to tears. Enjoy. And listen to Bill’s own podcast, Science Rules! With Bill Nye . For more on Bill Nye, see https://billnye.com/ Follow Bill Nye at Twitter.com/BillNye , Instagram.com/BillNye or TikTok.com/BillNye A donation went to www.planetary.org Listen to Science Rules! With Bill Nye at AskBillNye.com or wherever you get podcasts! Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, October 28, 2020
Cucurbitology (PUMPKINS) Encore with Anne Copeland
HERE IS SOME SAFE, COZY COMFORT: a platter of pumpkins. We have a new episode up this week: Desairology (MORTUARY MAKE-UP) but if that's toooo spooky: This 2019 Cucurbitology episode is an Ologies all-time favorite. Also? It helped launch sweet, sweet Anne Copeland’s book to the top of the seasonal cookbook charts last year. “Pumpkin, Pumpkin!” is not only a thing to scream while passing a patch, but also the name of author and human delight Anne Copeland's gourd opus. Yes, she's so charmed by pumpkins that she dedicated a whole book to exploring their folklore, history, planting protocol, care, and cooking. On a lark, Alie stops by her house in the rural hamlet of Yucaipa, California to chat about everything from creation myths surrounding pumpkins to Anne's favorite recipes, how to make a pumpkin last longer on your porch, the secret medicinal properties of pipitas, why humans might need to go bananas on Halloween, how to propose via pumpkin, and the big flimflam Anne needs the world to know about the pumpkin origin story. Also: who is Jack and why does he have a lantern? Anne Copeland's book " Pumpkin, Pumpkin: Folklore, History, Planting Hints and Good Eating " is available via Amazon And on Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/books/pumpkin-pumpkin-folklore-history-planting-hints-and-good-eating/9781719980982 A donation went to Shriners Hospitals for Children More links up at alieward.com/ologies/cucurbitology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, masks, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, October 27, 2020
Desairology (MORTUARY MAKE-UP) with Monica Torres
What happens when you die? Cosmically, no one knows. But cosmetically, Desairologist Monica Torress knows everything. This friendly Phoenix funeral director shares her secrets for giving the dearly departed the greatest glam on their “special day.” She chats practical preservation techniques, spooky questions, her influences, the newest make-up lines, formaldehyde, mourning and grief, and how to make sure you look like *you* -- or Dolly Parton -- when your loved ones say their goodbyes. Also: her most memorable cases and JUST the pep talk you needed to follow your dreams. Follow Monica Torres at Instagram.com/coldhandshosts and Twitter.com/coldhandshosts NXT Gen Mortuary Support: nxtgenmortuarysupport.com A donation went to the Hi Precious Scholarship: nxtgenmortuarysupport.com/scholarship/ Sponsors of Ologies: alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at alieward.com/ologies/desairology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, October 21, 2020
Anthropodermic Biocodicology (HUMAN LEATHER BOOKS) with Megan Rosenbloom & Daniel Kirby
Anthropodermic bibliopegy is a long, fancy way of saying “HUMAN SKIN BOOKS” and the study of confirming or debunking them is … Anthropodermic Biocodicology. For this skin-crawling, history-trawling Spooktober episode, we chat with the absolutely wonderful and charming medical librarian and expert of books bound in human skin, Megan Rosenbloom. Also on the line: analytical chemist Dr. Daniel Kirby, who discusses how books are tested to confirm if they are, in fact, human leather. Why would someone make these? What’s in between the covers? Whose skin is it? What do they smell like? And what can they tell us about our culture and our past?Rosenbloom has just released her book “Dark Archives” and gives us a peek into the world she’s come to know so well. Listen under a blanket or with a nightlight on, though. It’ll give you goosebumps. Follow Megan Rosenbloom at Instagram.com/libraryatnight and Twitter.com/libraryatnight Buy Dark Archives: A Librarian's Investigation Into the Science and History of Books Bound in Human Skin anywhere books are sold! Megan Rosenbloom’s website: https://meganrosenbloom.com/ A donation went to: BlackMamasMatter.org More links at alieward.com/ologies/anthropodermicbiocodicology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, October 13, 2020
Forest Entomology (CREEPY CRAWLIES) with Kristen Wickert
Spooktober continues with … CrEePy cRawLies. And dark woods and solo hiking and Forest Entomologist Dr. Kristen Wickert a.k.a. KayDubs the Hiking Scientist. We chat about everything from Moth Man to chubby caterpillars to spiderwebs to fungus. She tells us how to look for big beautiful moths, what footwear is best for hitting the trail, which bugs to kill and which to cheer on, how to deal with mosquitos in your yard and ticks in your pants and why the woods feel like home. By the end, you’ll be lacing up your whatevers, walking softly and looking closely. Dr. Kristen Wickert aka KayDubs the Hiking Scientist on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kaydubsthehikingscientist/ Her website: https://linktr.ee/Kaydubsthehikingscientist KayDubs’ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Kaydubsthehikingscientist KayDubs' YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ3oAFNfgWCDPSKtH59-R1g?app=desktop A donation went to: blackinappalachia.org Sponsors of the show: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at alieward.com/ologies/forestentomology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, October 07, 2020
Condorology (CONDORS & VULTURES) with Jonathan C. Hall
To kick off SpooOoktober, we’re looking at huge birds that DEVOUR DEATH: the giant, majestic and critically endangered California condor. Condorologist Dr. Jonathan C. Hall’s work helps monitor populations, tracks flight data, and keeps tabs on how well this small population is rebounding after going extinct in the wild in 1987. We chat carcasses, wingspans, beaks, bald heads, and more. By the end, you’ll want to gaze at the skies hoping for a sighting. Also: condor romance gossip! And accomplices vs. allyship. Dr. Hall is just amazing. Dr. Jonathan C. Hall’s website https://bit.ly/DrJCH Follow him at Twitter.com/outtherejch and Instagram.com/outtherejch A donation went to: www.blackinappalachia.org Sponsors of the show: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors More links at alieward.com/ologies/condorology Condor Cam on Ventana Wildlife Society site: https://www.ventanaws.org/condor_cam.html Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, September 30, 2020
Political Sociology (VOTER TURNOUT & SUPPRESSION) with Mindy Romero
If you need fuel to get excited about voting: here it is. How low is U.S. voter turnout? And why? Are mail-in ballots safe? Should you vote early? How has voter suppression worked in the past -- and the present -- to skew elections? Oooh, buckle up as the wonderful Dr. Mindy Romero, a Political Sociologist and founding director of USC’s Center for Inclusive Democracy, chats about what drives us to the polls, what keeps us away, how to celebrate election day, and why every single vote actually does matter. By the end, you’ll have a voting plan for the November 3rd presidential election, and maybe a shopping list that includes postage stamps and apple cider. Maybe some Fireball. Ps: VOTE. You deserve it. Learn more about Dr. Romero’s Center for Inclusive Democracy at cid.usc.edu , and follow them at https://twitter.com/CID_USC Dr. Romero tweets at https://twitter.com/mindysromero Resources for voting: Vote.org New York Times state-by-state info on voting Donations went to themarshallproject.org & commoncause.org Sponsors of the show: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors For more links: alieward.com/ologies/politicalsociology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and now… MASKS. Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, September 23, 2020
Fulminology (LIGHTNING) with Chris Giesige
Thunder and lightning: very, very frighteningly interesting! Wildfire researcher and lightning scientist Chris Giesige answers questions about thunderclaps and lightning flashes in a laid back way that will put him at the top of your Fulminologist list. He explains everything from clouds to positive and negative charges, volcanic lightning, fire tornadoes, getting struck by lightning, fractal scars, sprites, elves, how many gigawatts in a lightning strike, and how to enjoy a storm without getting zapped. Also, heartbreak vs. heart damage from electricity. Follow Chris at Twitter.com/Cgiesige39 or Instagram.com/chrisgiesige A donation went to International Relief Teams: irteams.org and Westcats.com Sponsors of the show: www.alieward.com/ologies-sponsors For more links: alieward.com/ologies/fulminology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, September 15, 2020
Mammalogy (MAMMALS) with Danielle N. Lee
Mammals: you’re one. Your dog is one. So are giant rats. What do we have in common? Nipples. The incredible Southern Illinois University professor, researcher, science communicator and mammalogist Dr. Danielle N. Lee joins to chat about everything from nature’s parenting styles to hairy bellies, milk glands, nip counts, how a meteor paved the way for our existence, her favorite mammals and the mysteries of the platypus. An episode years in the making, Alie barely keeps her cool as Dr. Lee gives insight and perspective on what it means to be a human and a mammal. Also, we chat about Black Mammalogists week Sept. 13-19 and the important pivots that changed her career path. Follow Dr. Danielle N. Lee at Twitter.com/DNLee5 or Instagram.com/DNLee5 September 13-19 is Black Mammalogists Week! https://blackmammalogists.com/ A donation went to semsuccess.org Follow SEM Link at Twitter.com/semlink For more links: alieward.com/ologies/mammalogy Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, September 08, 2020
Cervidology Part 2 (DEER) with Rhiannons Jakopak & Kirton
The spirited, laughy chatter with a duo of deer scientists named Rhiannon continues in the thrilling conclusion with Part 2. Buckle up for listener questions addressing everything from social structure to hunting to Chronic Wasting Disease to how *not* to hit a deer with your car. Also the weirdest animal fact Alie has ever learned in the history of Ologies. Soul-rattling. And if you missed Part 1, circle back and catch up to learn all about ungulates and deer and moose and elk and fawns and … some Stevie Nicks trivia and Welsh mythology for good measure. These episodes may change the way you look at our furry backyard friends forever. Rhiannon Kirton: https://twitter.com/rhiannon_kirton https://www.instagram.com/rhi_kirton/ https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/rhiannon-kirton/ Rhiannon Jakopak: https://twitter.com/rhiacoon https://www.instagram.com/rhiacoon/ Jakopakresearch.wordpress.com September 14-19: Black Mammalogists Week: https://blackmammalogists.com/ September 20: Free Atlatl Making Workshop by Angelo Robledo: 9/20, 10am-1pm Pacific Time: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdqLMRT1PPLslrJyG5srbokkWrof3XFujIDEC2RzzrRaQ4LJA/viewform A donation went to: The American Society of Mammalogists -- Sponsored Membership Fund: https://asm.wildapricot.org/Donate For more links: alieward.com/ologies/cervidology “Howdy, I’m John Ware!” kids’ book: https://redbarnbooks.ca/products/john-ware Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http
Wed, September 02, 2020
Cervidology (DEER) Part 1 with Rhiannons Kirton & Jakopak
What IS a deer? And an elk? And a moose? And a Rhiannon? One thing they all have in common: cervidology. Buckle up for some spirited, laughy chatter with a duo of deer scientists. They dish all about Welsh mythology and their field trips into the remote, gorgeous wilderness. They’ll explain what to do if you find a fawn, if you should feed backyard deer, what deer population numbers are like, hunting, ungulates, being a first-generation scientist and more. This episode is a quick overview and then the real fireworks are next week: in Part 2 we answer some questions with BANANAS facts that will stay burned in your brain until the end of time. Trust me. Rhiannon Kirton: https://twitter.com/rhiannon_kirton https://www.instagram.com/rhi_kirton/ https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/rhiannon-kirton/ Rhiannon Jakopak: https://twitter.com/rhiacoon https://www.instagram.com/rhiacoon/ jakopakresearch.wordpress.com September 14-19: Black Mammalogists Week: https://blackmammalogists.com/ September 20: Free Atlatl Making Workshop by Angelo Robledo: 9/20, 10am-1pm Pacific Time: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdqLMRT1PPLslrJyG5srbokkWrof3XFujIDEC2RzzrRaQ4LJA/viewform A donation went to: The American Society of Mammalogists -- Sponsored Membership Fund: https://asm.wildapricot.org/Donate For more links: alieward.com/ologies/cervidology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, August 25, 2020
Dasyurology (TASMANIAN DEVILS) with Jarrah Dale
Tasmanian devils! Quolls! Carnivores! Wait … what is a quoll? In what will become an instant-favorite new episode, Dasyurologist and Australian critter scientist Jarrah Dale joins from Down-Down Under to discuss his work at Oxford University studying the ecology of misunderstood boofy bush babes. Alie learns about everything from the Tasmanian landscape to Looney Toons to flim flam, karaoke shrieking, wallaby standoffs, the most Australian afternoon ever, Tim Tam slams, moms with the munchies, teat shortages,Tassie tumors that are shrinking populations, and more. Also: Jarrah has perhaps the best laugh ever. Follow Jarrah Dale on Twitter and Instagram A donation went to: Save the Tasmanian Devil Program Appeal As well as Firesticks https://www.firesticks.org.au/donate/ For more links: alieward.com/ologies/dasyurology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, August 18, 2020
Oceanology (THE OCEAN) with Ayana Johnson: Encore Presentation
With some fresh updates, ocean and policy expert Dr. Ayana Johnson guests in an encore presentation of a fan favorite episode. Hear updates from her, learn about her new podcast “How to Save a Planet,” and what she’s been up to since this episode originally aired in 2018. Are plastic straws really that bad? What's the oldest message in a bottle? Any scuba vs. snorkel strategies? Does sunscreen kill coral? Can we reverse ocean warming in our lifetime? Alie struggles with finding a balance between the wonders and the bummers, and in the first 20 or so minutes, we’ll learn weird ocean trivia, why we love the sea, and facts about the ocean's depths and beauty. Then, we get to the sad stuff: ocean health, climate change, acidification, pollution, policy and what we can all do. If you've been feeling helpless, this episode gives you all the tools you need to understand and help our friend, the World Ocean. Also: some great information about whale pee. A donation went to UrbanOceanLab.org Buy her book, out on September 22: https://www.allwecansave.earth Her podcast: “How to Save a Planet” https://gimletmedia.com/shows/howtosaveaplanet Dr. Johnson's OceanCollectiv.co Dr. Johnson on Twitter @ayanaeliza and Instagram @ayanaeliza Dr. Johnson's website: ayanaelizabeth.com Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, August 11, 2020
Experimental Archaeology (OLD TOOLS/ATLATLS) with Angelo Robledo
Spears! Sharp rocks! Ancient blades, bows and arrows and ...atlatls? What’s an atlatl? Experimental Archaeologist and decades-long ancient tool enthusiast Angelo Robledo is as passionate as an ologist can get. You likely have never heard of an atlatl, but by the end of the episode you’ll be carving one out of old lumber. Also covered: early axes, Indigenous traditions of Central and South America, ancient graffiti, tales of field work, archeology heroes, what to do if you find artifacts on a hike, and the physics of how far you can lob ancient weaponry, plus: the World Atlatl Association. Follow Angelo Robledo at Twitter.com/idigit1st or Instagram.com/idigit1st Check out the World Atlatl Association at WorldAtlAtl.org A donation went to Black Trowel Collective: https://blacktrowelcollective.wordpress.com/ Listen to Angelo's podcast, Sample Excavator Instagram.com/sampleexcavator and Twitter.com/sampleexcavator For more links: alieward.com/ologies/experimentalarchaeology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, August 04, 2020
Toxinology (JELLYFISH VENOM) with Anna Klompen
Jellyfish stings: what are they and why do they hurt? And who studies them? Toxinologist Anna Klompen, that’s who. Speaking from her lab in Kansas, surrounded by jellies, the self-described professional jellyfish nerd invites us into her scientific Polyp Parlor to chat about barbs, neurotoxins, quick sting fixes, panty hose, the deadliest jellies, the harmless ones, pee, her favorite moments in science and the species that have her heart forever. Also: how and why to “find a way.” Anna Klompen’s jellyfish venom website gelatinoussting.com Follow her at Twitter.com/gelatinoussting or Instagram.com/gelatinoussting A donation went to SkypeAScientist.org Look at this Jelly Cam! https://www.vanaqua.org/visit/live-cams-jelly-cam Sponsor links: kiwico.com/ologies For more links: alieward.com/ologies/toxinology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Thu, July 30, 2020
Medusology (JELLYFISH) with Rebecca Helm
What even *is* a jellyfish?! How do they eat? What are they made of? Can we eat them? Your new favorite Medusologist, Dr. Rebecca Helm, is a ray of human sunshine in the depths of the deep sea. Truly one of the finest biology conversations you may ever hear. Get ready for PacMan ghosts, pet jellyfish, the biggest and smallest jellies, new band names, live medusas, secret formulas to incite jellyfish puberty, and the lengths that she will go to to see a jelly bloom. And next week, your ears will fill with Toxinology as we explore jellyfish VENOM. Duck into the Polyp Parlor; this is a duo not to be missed. Dr. Rebecca Helm’s Jellyfish Blog and website: https://jellybiologist.com/ Follow her at Twitter.com/rebeccarhelm or twitter.com/rebeccarhelm A donation went to The Vancouver Aquarium: www.vanaqua.org Look at their Jelly Cam! https://www.vanaqua.org/visit/live-cams-jelly-cam Sponsor links: kiwico.com/ologies For more links: alieward.com/ologies/medusology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Thu, July 23, 2020
Minisode: Listeners Interview Alie
Update! This episode posted on Tuesday per usual, then somehow un-published itself! Weird. Harrumph! It’s been a rough week for ol' Dadward VonPodcast, including a technical difficulty that left her behind, so she asked listeners if they would rather have a bizzaro minisode that involved a 30-40 minute rant about raw tomatoes or an AMA, and guess what: here’s both, sort of. There was quite a bit of rambling an editing to make it a minisode, but we hope you enjoy. This is just a weird summer porch hangout, answering your most asked questions about everything from relationships to work process, procrastination, tips to younger selves, potato recipes and more. So sit back and enjoy this, a big glass of lemonade made from the lemons that bonked Alie in the face. A donation will go to a soon-to-be-announced science grant project. Sponsor links: hellofresh.com/80ologies ; stitchfix.com/ologies For more links: alieward.com/ologies/aperiology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, July 15, 2020
Aperiology (MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY) with Joseph Saunders
Lights! Cameras! Arachnids! And lizards and bees and beetles. Macro photography is like magic: curved glass gives an entirely new take on the world, from dust on a cricket’s brow to a curious mantid stare to the elegant symmetry of spider whiskers. Joseph Saunders is an Oklahoma-based wildlife photographer whose larger-than-life photos of bugs and reptiles will make you realize just how little we appreciate the creatures on our window sills and skittering up our porches. We talk shop about cameras, bug hunts, lenses, patience, Moth Week, BlackAFinSTEM, and also getting into nature with different mobility concerns. Alie is a shameless, rabid fan of Joseph and asked Patrons to help concoct an -ology to describe the art + science of his macro photography. Aperiology now exists to describe the tiny aperture used to keep these creatures in focus, and the huge world it opens up to us. Support Joseph’s photography at Patreon.com/jdmonroe Joseph’s website: https://paraherpetologica.com/ Follow Joseph at www.instagram.com/reelsonwheels Follow him at Twitter.com/jdmonroe210 or twitter.com/BlackAFinSTEM A donation went to the American Chronic Pain Association: www.theacpa.org/ Sponsor links: kiwico.com/ologies ; For more links: alieward.com/ologies/aperiology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, July 08, 2020
Agnotology (IGNORANCE) with Robert Proctor
Yes, there is an -ology for that. Dr. Robert Proctor is a Stanford professor of the History of Science and co-edited the book “Agnotology: The Making & Unmaking of Ignorance,” having coined the word 30 years ago. We chat about everything from the true evils of tobacco marketing, to the sugar lobby, to racial injustice, horse vision, the psychology of the Flat Earther movement, which countries have the highest rates of climate denial, empathy, how to navigate difficult conversations and why it's critical to dismantle the systems of willful ignorance, starting locally. Dr. Robert Proctor’s book, Agnotology Donations went to: SavingBlackLives.org ; The National Black Law Students Association , and the Public Health Advocacy Institute Sponsor links: takecareof.com/ologies25 (code: ologies25); helixsleep.com/ologies For the list of books he mentions + more links, see: alieward.com/ologies/agnotology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, June 30, 2020
Bryology (MOSS) with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer
An instant classic. You’ll listen on repeat as world-renowned author, botanist, Indigenous ecology professor and bryologist Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer talks about her passion for moss. Cozy up for the most beautifully doled-out information about hidden worlds, overlooked mysteries, botanical drama, forests in miniature, Native peoples’ uses for moss and philosophies about science and ecology. Dr. Kimmerer, author of “Gathering Moss” and “Braiding Sweetgrass,” will change the way you see mosses forever, will inspire you to wear a loupe on a rope, and will soothe your soul with her beautiful voice and prose. Also bathmats, lawns and smoothies made of moss? We discuss. Follow Dr. Kimmerer at facebook.com/braidingsweetgrass Look for her books at independent bookstores or wherever books are sold (including Amazon): “ Braiding Sweetgrass ” and “ Gathering Moss ” Donations went to the ESF’s Center for Native Peoples and the Environment and American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) Sponsor links: kiwico.com/ologies ; hellotushy.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/bryology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and uh...bikinis? Hi. Yes. Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, June 23, 2020
Neuroendocrinology (SEX & GENDER) Part 2 with Daniel Pfau
The wonderful neuroscientist and endocrinology researcher Dr. Daniel Pfau is back for Part 2 to answer listener mail about how hormones affect our moods, the variation of gender expression, queer lizards, how a strict gender binary is harmful to entire populations, hormone replacement therapy, hormones in sports, gender dysphoria, additional info on the Gender Unicorn and more. They remain just charming and kind and this episode will help you further understand just how many ways there are to be human. Also: it’s okay to take a mental health day once in a while. Follow Dr. Daniel Pfau at Twitter.com/endokweer A donation went to MarshaP.org Sponsor links: HelloFresh.com/ologies60 ; Behr.com/express ; LinkedIn.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/Neuroendocrinology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, June 16, 2020
Neuroendocrinology (SEX & GENDER) Part 1 with Daniel Pfau
How many genders are there? How do you know if you’re queer? Is sexual orientation biological, and if so, how? The amazing Michigan State University neuroscientist and endocrinology researcher Dr. Daniel Pfau joins to share their path in academia finding the perfect research, understanding their own genderqueer identity, what animals in nature exhibit queer behavior, how hormones influence the brain, how important it was for them to find community and why the gender binary isn’t a good fit for a lot of people. They are just charming and kind and wonderful and this episode will help you understand just how many ways there are to be human. Also: smitten meadow mice, Gender Unicorns and Alie as a lion. Happy Pride, y’all. Follow Dr. Daniel Pfau at Twitter.com/endokweer A donation went to MarshaP.org Sponsor links: HelloFresh.com/ologies60 ; Behr.com/express ; LinkedIn.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/Neuroendocrinology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, June 10, 2020
Very Special Episode: BlackAFinSTEM with various Ologists
The most ologists in one Ologies. And maybe my favorite episode ever. #BlackBirdersWeek was such a force that we wanted to keep the energy going by spotlighting not one, but 30 ologists. You’re about to meet 30 new science heroes who are @BlackAFinSTEM and chatting about electric fish snouts, urban birds, falcons, lizards, crocodiles, economics, carnivores, sea turtles, porcupine noses, butt breathing, Ivory Towers, microaggressions, and how being an ally is a learning process we can all get better at. Walk side by side through life as a Black academic and hear their tips to best support them as well as guidance to Black students. Follow and fawn over your 30 glorious new nerd friends. Follow all of the wonderful people you just heard on Twitter, on this list: https://twitter.com/i/lists/1270585769720078336?s=20 Follow Joseph Saunder’s gorgeous macro photography Instagram.com/reelsonwheels Follow BlackAFinSTEM at Twitter.com/BlackAFinSTEM and Instagram.com/BlackAFinSTEM A donation will be made to BlackAFinSTEM Donate to individual members of BlackAFinSTEM https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ib6EvgCV0xn8iBpAX8kA6BZWxgcvofVEZTqU-Xh1bCU/edit Hiring a wildlife biologist? Reach out to Twitter.com/bellzisbirding More links at alieward.com/ologies/BlackAFinSTEM Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Thu, June 04, 2020
Pelicanology (PELICANS) with Juita Martinez
Spine mysteries, saggy sacs, limericks, flim flam, flags, #BlackBirdersWeek, sandals, divebombs, porcupine espionage, ice cream sandwiches and more! The warm and wonderful pelicanologist Juita Martinez studies these glorious dinosaurs and shares fieldwork stories, what it’s like to hold a floofy baby sea bird, what she loves about being in nature and resources for undergrads interested in becoming scientists. We also chat about birding and the amazing visibility campaign launched by BlackAFinSTEM, which is hosting online events this week to open the discussion about how racism affects Black naturalists, scientists, hikers and any other people of color who want to enjoy the outdoors. Oh also: how not to lose a boat. Follow Juita Martinez at www.instagram.com/juitamartinez and twitter.com/JuitaMartinez Juita’s website: https://juitamartinez.weebly.com Follow BlackAFinSTEM at Twitter.com/BlackAFinSTEM and Instagram.com/BlackAFinSTEM A donation went to BackyardBasecamp.org #BlackBirdersWeek Events: Thursday, June 4 #BirdingWhileBlack Livestream Discussion: tinyurl.com/BlackBirders , 7pm-8:30pm EST, moderated by Twitter.com/itsafronomics Friday, June 5 #BlackWomenWhoBird. Follow all the amazing #BlackWomenWhoBird Also check out #AskABlackBirder, #PostABird, #BlackInNature, #BlackAFInSTEM More links at alieward.com/ologies/pelicanology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, May 26, 2020
Oikology (DECLUTTERING) with Jamie & Filip Hord + Joe Ferrari
Why does clutter happen? How can we get rid of it and how will it affect us psychologically if we do? Buckle up for an episode that will lift your spirits and quite possibly change your life. We all have unfolded piles of laundry, that closet we don’t want to open, a tornado of papers on our desk that seems impossible to sort through. Enter: Oikology, the science of keeping things contained. Alie hunted down world-famous professional organizers, Jamie & Filip Hoard of Horderly to chat about -- FIRST OFF-- their name, plus gender and messes, when to call in a pro to help, the step-by-step process to tackle the entropy in your home and life, what do do about gifts you don’t want, what tools you might need, the KonMari method, how to overcome the emotional attachment to objects, and why decluttering becomes addictive. We also called in the big guns, research psychologist Dr. Joe Ferrari of DePaul university, to share his research on clutter, its psychological causes and effects, if the “spark joy” method works for everyone, when to call a professional organizer and how many pants is too many pants. Also: dispatches from my own front lines. This episode already changed my own life… and closet. Follow Jamie and Filip Hord at Instagram.com/horderly or at horderly.com Listen to Dr. Ferrari in the Volitional Psychology ( Procrastination ) episode and check out his book, “ Still Procrastinating? ” A donation went to DressforSuccess.org and challengingdisorganization.org More links at alieward.com/ologies/oikology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, May 20, 2020
Planariology (VERY COOL WORMS, I PROMISE) with Oné Pagán
Who cares about flatworms? Guess what: you do. Planarian expert Dr. Oné Pagán shares his infectious enthusiasm for the teeny tiny ribbons of flesh that are helping scientists understand addiction, limb regeneration, stem cells, immortality and maybe aliens though probably not aliens. You’re about to be obsessed. We discuss where to find planarians, serendipitous science, taking risks in life, how these worms regrow themselves when they are cut into 279 pieces, marine flatworms, penis fencing, multipurpose mouth tubes, the Unabomber and more. Dr. Pagán is a gem of a human and you’re about to be smitten with flatworms. And him. Trust me. Follow Dr. Oné Pagán at Twitter.com/baldscientist or check out his blog at baldscientist.wordpress.com His book, “ The First Brain ” A donation went to NoKidHungry.org More links at alieward.com/ologies/planariology Song at the end is: 9 Animal Phyla Song Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, May 12, 2020
Coronasode: Virology Update (COVID-19) with Shannon Bennett & Mike Natter
What kind of masks should you wear? How many people have had COVID-19 and don’t know? Do antibody tests work? When will we have a vaccine? Is it okay to picnic? Will there be a second wave? You need updates and we’ve got ologists. The wonderful Dr. Shannon Bennett from the first Virology episode joins us again, as well as New York City physician Dr. Mike Natter from the Diabetology episode. These two warm, informed professions dispel rumors, explain what life has been like on the front lines, address medications, describe new symptoms, “proning,” rates of asymptomatic folks, where to wear a mask, how to use gloves and whether or not the balcony saucepan symphonies at 7pm every night delight or annoy them. We’re in this for the long haul folks, but we’ve got each other. Follow Dr. Mike Natter at Instagram.com/mike.natter or Twitter.com/mike_natter Dr. Shannon Bennett at twitter.com/microbeexplorer and Instagram.com/microbeexplorer Donations went to Food Bank for New York and California Academy of Sciences Check out the podcast Science Vs. More Ologies Coronasodes: Virology , All (Washed) Hands on Deck More links at alieward.com/ologies/virology2 Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, May 05, 2020
Architectural Technology (COMPUTER PROGRAMMING) with Iddris Sandu
Iddris Sandu is only 22, but his life story is already legendary. This Architectural Technologist learned to program at the age of 11 and has worked with everyone from Kanye West to Nipsey Hussle to Space X. We talk coding, web design, holograms, and how programming works and what languages should you learn and why it's important. The designer and entrepreneur also shares his creative process, favorite programming languages, philosophies on future technology and why empathy matters in life and in design. He’s a true inspiration and Alie shamelessly begged him for life advice. Bonus: this one is pretty kid-friendly so spread it around to anyone who needs a new hero. To see some of Iddris’s work, check out www.slabs.one Follow him at Instagram.com/IddrisSandu and Twitter.com/Iddris_Sandu Sponsor links: thegreatcoursesplus.com/OLOGIES More links at alieward.com/ologies/architecturaltechnology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, April 28, 2020
Nassology (TAXIDERMY) with Allis Markham
Glass eyes! Pelts! Antlers! Hides! Bones! Tanning! Hilarious, charming and globally celebrated taxidermist Allis Markham chats about her passion for preserving animals for museums and institutions. She’s won multiple awards for her artful poses and meticulous work as an ethical taxidermist. With her flair for vintage styling, is perhaps the most elegant badass on planet Earth. Learn the process of making museum taxidermy, her favorite pieces she’s ever made, the best diorama halls, how to DIY it at home, the dos and don’ts of picking up roadkill, why she’s not a fan of 'crap taxidermy' and if ...humans could theoretically be ... stuffed. She is a living dream, this woman. To learn more about Allis and her work, see PreyTaxidermy.com Follow Allis Markham at Instagram.com/allis and Twitter.com/allismarkham A donation went to ConservationAmbassadors.org Sponsor links: kiwico.com/OLOGIES ; StitchFix.com/OLOGIES; 1-800 Contacts (1-800-266-8228) or 1800contacts.com More links at alieward.com/ologies/nassology “ Stuffed ” documentary! Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, April 21, 2020
Penguinology (PENGUINS) with Tom Hart
Do penguins have flippers or wings? Why do they waddle? Do they really mate for life? What’s up with pebble gifts? Are they squishy or dense? And why why why are they so cute? April 25th is World Penguin Day and there’s never been a better time to sit down with renown Penguinologist Dr. Tom Hart, a research fellow with Oxford University. We chat all about life on Antarctica, how he counts colonies, how you can help him count colonies, what penguins smell like, behaviors he’s witnessed, and why he does NOT find penguins cute. Rather he sees them as stoic, badass, majestic and worthy of our respect. Also, which penguins are jackasses. Hint: it’s not jackass penguins. Dr. Hart is your new favorite penguinologist. Follow Penguin Watch at Twitter.com/penguin_watch and Instagram.com/penguin_watch Help count penguins -- for science! At PenguinWatch.org Donations went to TRASS for mangrove planting and to PenguinWatch.org More links at alieward.com/ologies/penguinology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, April 14, 2020
Gastroegyptology (BREAD BAKING) with Seamus Blackley
Sourdough starters! Ancient yeasts! Why we need/knead dough! And why you don't need to buy a starter to start. Polymath, particle physicist, inventor of the Xbox, and truly delightful fermentation nerd Seamus Blackley joins to chat about his kitchen adventures resurrecting dormant yeasts from 4,000 Egyptian baking vessels, plus wild yeasts, the infuriating myth of “yeast scarcity,” the beauty of everyday objects, the debt we owe our ancestors, the joy of getting to know your dough plus tons of tips for newbie and experienced bakers. The first half is all about the history of baking and yeasts and some hot Egyptian gossip, then we roll up our sleeves in the second half for how-tos. Forward this episode to anyone who bakes, who wants to bake, who lovingly feeds their jar of yeasts, who is intimidated by it or who just needs a lesson on how to slow down and enjoy the dormancy period we’re in right now. This episode’s got it all. Including some truly shameless bread puns. Follow Seamus @SeamusBlackley and here’s one recipe tutorial megathread: https://twitter.com/SeamusBlackley/status/1135328857660305408 Follow: Egyptologist Dr. Serena Love , microbiologist Richard Bowman @RBowman1234 and the coiner of “Gastroegyptology,” Kieran Donnachie A donation went to Boys and Girls Clubs of America: https://www.bgca.org Sponsor links: Sakara.com/ologies ; Kiwico.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/gastroegyptology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, April 07, 2020
Philematology (KISSING) with Robin Dunbar
Why do we kiss? What makes a good kiss or a bad kiss? How many microbes do we exchange? Is it good for us? One of the world’s most accomplished researchers on kissing, social behavior and relationships, Dr . Robin Dunar of Oxford University reluctantly agrees to be interviewed and explains how kissing may have evolved, how discos are research labs and friends are people you can invite yourself to have a beer with. Also: how to deal with the loneliness of isolation, autism and intimacy, why your cheerfulness may impact people you don’t even know and … Alie’s first kiss. Dr. Dunbar’s books are available here A donation went to: www.alaseniorliving.org Sponsor links: TheGreatCoursesPlus.com/ologies ; EMBRWave.com/ologies ; betterhelp.com/ologies (code: ologies) More links at alieward.com/ologies/philematology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, March 31, 2020
Plumology (FEATHERS) with Allison Shultz
Plumage! Sexy dances! Feather heists! Possible holographic disco birds? Natural History Museum of LA ornithology curator Dr. Allison Shultz is a professional plumologist aka feather expert. We visit the museum’s collection of rare specimens and chat about everything from fossilized dinosaur feathers to silent owl flight to furry bird legs to why pigeons are so loud, peacock tails, down parkas, quill pens, heavy metal flautists, feather thieves, pigments, flight feathers, Vantablack, if you can eat feathers and why birdwatching is like seeing tiny purple raccoons zoom overhead. Birds: like Pokemon Go but weirder. Visit Dr. Allison Shultz’s website allisonshultz.com and follow twitter.com/ajshultz622 A donation went to: birdnet.com/oc Sponsor links: Kiwico.com/ologies ; Dispea.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/plumology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, March 25, 2020
Lepidopterology (BUTTERFLIES & MOTHS) — Encore Presentation with Phil Torres
Since we just put out the " All (Washed) Hands on Deck " episode on Sunday, we figured a happy Springtime encore about fluttery, colorful cuties was in order -- with a few new updates and asides. Because ... Butterflies are gross. Yes they are delightful and beautiful and part of any idyllic picnic-scape but lepidopterologist, TV host and jungle explorer Phil Torres is here to gossip about how shamelessly disgusting our favorite bugs actually are. Learn their secrets, their mating habits, how they turn themselves into goo and then into another creature, what moth is the most goth, what flowers to plant to attract them, the scariest thing about the jungle and what it feels like to help discover new species. Also butterflies get sloppy drunk and we talk all about it. For more info, see: Phil-Torres.com Follow Phil on Twitter and Instagram and TikTok More info on the COVID-19 volunteer scientist database: https://tinyurl.com/COVID19SciVolunteers Sponsor links: hellofresh.com/ologies10 ; linkedin.com/ologies Donations went to Xerces.org & MealsonWheelsAmerica.org Follow Phil's inspiration, @AndyBugGuy , on Twitter Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/lepidopterologyencore Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Sun, March 22, 2020
Coronasode: All (Washed) Hands on Deck -- How to Help Yourself & Others Right Now with Dr. Michael F. Wells
CALLING ALL OLOGISTS: If you’re a scientist who wants to help with the COVID-19 pandemic -- boy howdy have we got an episode for you. Dr. Mike Wells, a neurobiologist at Harvard University and the Broad Institute, knows we need tests in the U.S. and is coralling all the wonderful scientists willing to pitch in. He explains how testing for the SARS CoV-2 virus works, what other countries are doing, and even the book that inspired him to pursue science. Also: if you’re feeling helpless and want to help, Patrons give dozens of ideas on how to help those around you, and where to go for resources if you need help, and how to take care of your own mental and physical well being during an uncertain time. Also the album I’m listening to too much and how much toilet paper I have left. To sign up -- or for access to the database -- click here: https://tinyurl.com/COVID19SciVolunteers Follow Dr. Michael F. Wells at Twitter.com/mfwells5 A donation went to: LAFoodBank.org More health info at EndCoronavirus.org Sign the petition for nurses’ protection Links to more articles + kid-friendly shows at alieward.com/ologies/handsondeck Have extra masks? Try the website www.mask-match.com Brainchildshow.com 100 Humans on Netflix Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, March 18, 2020
Veterinary Biology (CRITTER FIXING) with Dr. Vernard Hodges & Dr. Terrence Ferguson
At long last: an episode dedicated to veterinary medicine! Dr. Terrence Ferguson & Dr. Vernard Hodges have been friends for nearly 30 years and have co-owned their rural Georgia veterinary clinic, Critter Fixers, for over 20 years. The two wonderful buddies talk about getting accepted into vet school, caring for spiders & camels & lizards & toads & kittens & doggos, the weirdest things they’ve extracted from animal tummies, if our pets love us back, keeping kidneys healthy, grain-free diets, what to do if your (Alie’s) dog is plumping up by a few pounds, what they wish animal owners knew, when it’s time to let go vs. keep treating a pet, the daily rollercoaster of emotions that come with vet med -- and their charming, informative new show “Critter Fixers: Country Vets” on NatGeo Wild. Watch “ Critter Fixers: Country Vets ” on National Geographic Their vet practice: critterfixerveterinaryhospital.com Follow Dr. Hodges & Dr. Ferguson A donation went to: ittakesavillagefoundation.com Sponsor links: betterhelp.com/ologies ; Sakara.com/ologies ; StitchFix.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/veterinarybiology 100 Humans on Netflix Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, March 10, 2020
Coronasode: Virology (COVID-19) with Dr. Shannon Bennett + various ologists
Folks, it’s a megasode. Not one, but 4 ologists. “Coronavirus” is on everyone’s lips -- and some people’s hands -- but what is it? Where did it come from? How does it spread? How dangerous is it? What should we do? Who’s most at risk? Was it biowarfare? Do bats spread it? Should you wear a mask? Can we still smooch our dogs on the face? Do we need to doomsday prep? What’s it like to live in a leper colony? Alie sits down with Dr. Shannon Bennett: a microbiologist, a molecular epidemiologist, a virologist and the Chair of Science at the California Academy Science. She is deeply informed and warm and charming and patient. All these questions will be answered and your panic will be swapped out for informed, empowered action and compassion. You will also wash your hands a lot. Whether or not you bathe in whiskey is up to you. Follow: Dr. Shannon Bennett at twitter.com/microbeexplorer and Instagram.com/microbeexplorer Listen to Chiropterology (BATS) with Dr. Merlin Tuttle Listen to Disasterology (EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT) with Dr. Samantha Montano Listen to Disinfectiology (BLEACH) with Dr. Evan Rumberger A donation went to: California Academy of Sciences Sponsor links: Kiwico.com/ologies ; HelixSleep.com/ologies ; AurateNewYork.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/virology 100 Humans on Netflix Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, March 03, 2020
Scatology (POOP) with Rachel Santymire
Yep. Here it is. Let’s dive right in ... to poop. Hippo poop. Ferret poop. Octopoop. Dogs. Cats. Yours. The charming and informative Dr. Rachel Santymire -- aka Dr. Poop -- has a background in animal physiology and endocrinology and is elbow deep in dung as a research director at the Lincoln Park Zoo. Dr. Poop sits down with Alie to talk turds and how she uses poo to determine the health and stress of wild and captive animals, plus: poop vs. poo, why some animals poop pellets, muck middens, taking glitter pills, why the Bristol Stool Scale is “the best thing in the universe,” and why the Lincoln Park Zoo has 17 freezers full of dookie. You’re welcome. A donation went to: https://www.lpzoo.org Sponsor links: TakeCareOf.com (code: ologies50); betterhelp.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/scatology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 25, 2020
Volitional Psychology (PROCRASTINATION) with Dr. Joseph R. Ferrari
“Everyone procrastinates, but not everyone is a procrastinator,” quoth Dr. Joe Ferrari, a charming, hilarious expert on the subject. The research psychologist, author and DePaul University professor sits down for a truly delightful exploration of why we procrastinate, how prevalent it is, when it becomes harmful, some myths about procrastination, why it’s similar to gambling, how decision-making can feel paralyzing, how to trust your own abilities, and most importantly -- what to do if you’re a chronic procrastinator. Also: how and why you should embrace failure. Oh and a weird ASMR pencil trick. Dr. Ferrari’s book “ Still Procrastinating? The No Regrets Guide to Getting It Done ” A donation went to: www.vasculitisfoundation.org Sponsor links: stitchfix.com/ologies ; sakara.com/ologies (code: ologies); hellofresh.com/ologies10 (code: ologies10) California Academy of Sciences on March 5; Natural History Museum of LA County March 6; SXSW EDU on March 11 More links at alieward.com/ologies/procrastination Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Jarrett & Dr. Nick’s Sunday livestreams: mixer.com/mygoodbadbrain Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 18, 2020
Cryoseismology (ICEQUAKES) with Celeste Labedz
Glaciers: Where are they? What are they made of? What happens when chunks splinter off into the sea? There are ICEQUAKES? CalTech Cryoseismologist Celeste Labedz sometimes wears a cape with her snowpants and spends part of her career shooting explosions into giant chunks of ice and recording the seismic activity, analyzing the rivers that flow through glaciers, and keeping tabs on glacial melt. Also discussed: the most goth way to honor a glacier, and whether or not you should visit them IRL. Follow Celeste at Twitter.com/celestelabedz or Instagram.com/celestelabez A donation went to: https://theiagd.org Sponsor links: gabi.com/ologies ; betterhelp.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/cryoseismology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 11, 2020
Genealogy (FAMILY TREES) with Stephen Hanks
Histories, mysteries, memories and families: it’s time to clamber up our ancestral trees. Author and genealogist Stephen Hanks -- who teaches genealogy classes in Portland, Oregon and has contributed to PBS genealogy documentaries -- sits down to chat about what ignited a passion for learning about his own history. Also: how to find your family through census records, county archives, death certificates and more, plus which DNA tests he’s taken, our most recent common ancestor, and how America can try to heal from its past. Also: capes, detectives and hairy fanny packs. Stephen Hanks books: “ 1619 -- Twenty Africans ,” and “ Akee Tree ” Publisher: Inkwater Press A donation went to: BlackPast.org Sponsor links: StitchFix.com/ologies ; Kiwico.com/ologies ; LinkedIn.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/genealogy Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 04, 2020
Nephology (CLOUDS) with Rachel Storer
Cumulus! Lenticular! Venti sugar-free stratocumulus stratiformis translucidus undulatus! Those light and fluffy things that hang overhead weigh thousands of pounds and form under all kinds of conditions. Cloud doctor and nephologist Dr. Rachel Storer chats about why she loves clouds, the different varieties of them, weather modification, sun dogs, bad emojis, tornado chasing, flim flam, conspiracy theories, cloud tattoos and diamond rain. Also: the common factor in whoopee cushions, boob implants and your lunch. Follow Dr. Rachel Storer at Twitter.com/cloudsinmybeer A donation went to: WWF's Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund Sponsor links: TakeCareOf.com (code: ologies50); TheGreatCoursesPLUS.com/OLOGIES ; betterhelp.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/nephology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 28, 2020
Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) Part 2 with Dr. Mike Natter, MD
Diabetic diabetologist and wonderful person Dr. Mike Natter, MD is back to answer all of your questions about blood sugar, the cost of insulin, pancreas transplants, keto, glucagon, how exercise can save your life, his most meaningful interactions with patients, pudding theft, and the best place to cry at work. Also: why you should always keep frosting in your purse. This episode is swear-free and okay for all ages, and a bleeped version of Diabetology Part 1 can be found at this link . Follow Dr. Mike Natter at Instagram.com/mike.natter or at Twitter.com/mike_natter A donation went to: JDRF.org Sponsor links: LinkedIn.com/ologies ; HelloFresh.com/ologies10 (code: ologies10) More links at alieward.com/ologies/diabetology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 21, 2020
Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) Part 1 with Dr. Mike Natter, MD
Your blood sugar can make you happy, moody, sweaty, unconscious and possibly even homicidal. In this episode, Dr. Mike Natter dishes about how blood sugar works, what insulin does, and how prevalent diabetes is in all of its various forms. Also: keto vs. vegan, hypoglycemia, cyborg organs, owl hoots, gestational diabetes, type 1 vs. type 2 and ... does Gwyneth drink her own pee? Also: the emotional side of the disease and how to help those in your life who are diabetic. Next week, the doc addresses your questions, from diets to diagnoses to infuriating insulin prices. Follow Dr. Mike Natter at Instagram.com/mike.natter or at Twitter.com/mike_natter A donation went to: beyondtype1.org Sponsor links: thegreatcoursesplus.com/OLOGIES ; ZOLA.com/ologies (code:SAVE50); betterhelp.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/diabetology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, January 15, 2020
Bisonology (BUFFALO) with various bisonologists
Bison bison! Not just something to holler into the sky, but also the scientific name for North America's majestic wild bovines that once roamed the plains in the tens of millions. What's up with their humps? On what occasion do they wear capes? What noises do they make? How many are out there? What are the best ways to help them? In this special episode, you get 4x the usual number of ologists as we talk to archeologist Dr. Ken Cannon, wildlife biologist Dr. Dan McNulty, Alie's cousin Boyd and his wife Lila Evans, of the Blackfeet Tribe, who are bison ranchers based in Northern Montana. Also, once and for all: is it buffalo or bison? And can Alie hug one? A donation went to: InterTribal Bison Council (ITBC) More episode sources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, January 07, 2020
Futurology (THE FUTURE) with Rose Eveleth
"The future's not ours to see..." OR IS IT? Professional futurologist Rose Eveleth -- host of the podcast Flash Forward -- endures all kinds of breathless questions from Alie about shiny metal and implanted microchips and biohacking and population density curves and flying cars and equality and utopias and the Jetsons and technology and nuclear fusion and whether or not our phones are spying on us and if we should have kids or dogs. Also: how long do we, as a species, have on Earth? Despite some grim conditions, find out why Rose remains an optimist and get fired the hell up about making the future better for everyone. Visit Rose Eveleth's website Listen to her podcast Flash Forward Donations went to Gender Reveal Grant and the Magnolia Mother's Trust More episode sources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, December 31, 2019
Fearology Pt. 2 (FEAR) with Mary Poffenroth -- Encore Presentation
FEAR. Anxiety. Stress. Dread. It's all the same dang thing, as it turns out. Biologist and fear expert Mary Poffenroth is back to answer your questions in Part 2 of the encore presentation that's been one of the most helpful interviews of ol' Alie Ward's life. Learn how super successful people approach fear, Mary’s scariest hour, plus answers to all of your questions about night terrors, self-spookery, sharks' bad PR image to how likely it is that a snake will bite your butt. Plus: the best thing about following your passions in life. If this episode helped you at all, consider telling friends about it so we can all get over being chicken sh*ts and, as Mary would say "die with great stories." For more info on Mary Poffenroth, see her website , Facebook , Twitter or Instagram More episode sources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, December 24, 2019
Fearology Pt. 1 (FEAR) with Mary Poffenroth -- Encore Presentation
Every day, your brain tries to save your life by being terrified. Thanks, brain! Also, calm the f*ck down, brain. In 2018, Alie hunted down Mary Poffenroth, an expert in the biological and sociological causes/effects of fear -- and it is riveting. This December, Time Magazine named Ologies a top podcast and recommended this episode specifically. Plus it just so happens that there was an administrative snafu with the podcast network and we're not supposed to have new episodes for two weeks, so enjoy this encore of a truly life changing episode. This actual FEAROLOGIST (which is a real word) talks about how fear is literally killing you, the difference between stress and fear, how to get along with your co-workers, friends, or partner better, and how to talk to your brain when it has needlessly pulled the fire alarm. Part 1 of a 2-part series that will honestly change your life. For more info on Mary Poffenroth, see her website , Facebook , Twitter or Instagram More episode sources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, December 18, 2019
Audiobook Mixtape: Gift Ideas from the Ologists’ Brains
Need holiday gift ideas? GET BOOKS. This episode is like an audiobook… but also a mixtape? It's got a little bit of everything, from cozy cabin tales to dark caves to our own reflections, how your atoms will be recycled, New Year’s resolutions, cat training, dog rescues, battling past demons, aging, the apocalypse, crime TV and even Egyptian boobytraps. Alie has wanted to deliver excerpts from ologists’ books for over a year but she let them pile up for an even bigger compilation. Consider this like a refresher of some episodes you’ve loved, a teaser for ones you haven’t yet heard, and a sneak preview of books written by the pod’s beloved guests. To get your hands on some of these titles, go to alieward.com/ologies/bookworm for info and links. A donation went to 826LA Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, December 10, 2019
Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS) with Katherine Hatcher
What time should you go to bed? Are you sleeping enough? Is Daylight Savings good for us? Is shift work really that bad? How dark is dark enough? Katherine Hatcher, who studies hormones, sleep cycles and circadian rhythms, helps Alie dissect her terrible sleep habits and talks about a magic tiny area in our brains that acts as your body's Big Ben. By the end of the episode, you'll be in footie pajamas eager to change your whole life. Follow Katherine Hatcher on Twitter A donation went to STEM Advocacy Institute Previous Ologies episode on SLEEEP More episode sources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, December 03, 2019
Phonology (LINGUISTICS) with Nicole Holliday — Encore Presentation
Alie is delirious with the flu, so it’s an encore presentation of a favorite episode. If you slept on this when it first aired, get into Phonology now. Vocal fry. Code switching. Black Twitter. Valley girls. Culture vultures. WE'RE TALKING ABOUT TALKING. Alie battles traffic to sit down with linguistics professor Dr. Nicole Holliday about intonational phonology: how tones and pitch help us bond with others and construct identities. Inspired in part by former President Barack Obama's masterful linguistic variability, Dr. Holliday's work focuses on how language is used in the crossing and construction of racial/ethnic boundaries. She graciously fielded tons of questions for a fascinating dive into the nuances and strict grammatical rules of African American Language, cultural appropriation, our educational system, honoring your identity, what not to wear in Paris and the roiling debate over who is the best rapper. Also: Alie is maybe a lizard person. Follow Dr. Nicole Holliday @MixedLinguist on Twitter and Instagram A donation went to Initiate Justice More episode sources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, November 26, 2019
Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) with Adam Becker
Is anything real? How many universes are there? Do we know what dark matter is all about? Is everything a simulation being run by a quantum computer through a wormhole from a future era? Is the answer to everything really ... 42? The affable and charming astrophysicist, author and philosopher of tiny particles Dr. Adam Becker pulls up a seat. And Alie has an existential crisis or two as they discuss the drama, intellectual battles and drunken debates of science past, and the hope that a new era of thinkers will figure out what exactly is going on in the world. Either way: cut bangs and text your crush. Follow Dr. Adam Becker on Twitter Purchase his book " What is Real? The Unfinished Quest for the Meaning of Quantum Physics ” A donation went to Techbridge Girls More episode sources & links Sponsors of Ologies Transcripts & bleeped episodes Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, November 19, 2019
Lupinology (WOLVES) with Bridgett vonHoldt
Wolf howls, wolf packs, wolf pups and more! As the holiday Wolfenoot approaches, lupinologist and Princeton professor Dr. Brigette vonHoldt sits down to talk about her research looking at everything from wolf populations to modern dog behavior, canine family dynamics, Game of Thrones direwolves, Yellowstone wolfies, the ecological impact of predators, if wolves howl at the moon, myths and truths about alphas, the wolf movie she refuses to see, how dog and human genetics are similar, and how you can help our lupine friends. Also: how social media is howling for humans. The vonHoldt Lab: https://vonholdt.princeton.edu Benefunder for Dr. vonHoldt Follow Dr. vonHoldt at www.twitter.com/thebeepz A donation went to: https://redwolves.com/newsite/ Sponsor links: thegreatcoursesplus.com/OLOGIES; kiwicodot.com/OLOGIES; TakeCareOf.com (code: OLOGIES); periodbetter.com (code: OLOGIES) More links up at alieward.com/ologies/lupinology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, November 12, 2019
Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) with Crystal Dilworth
Serotonin! Dopamine! Norepinephrine! Neurotransmitters: what's their deal? Dr. Crystal Dilworth, aka Dr. Brain, stops by to have a spirited discussion about how chemical messengers change our moods and behaviors. We chat about depression, anxiety, what chemicals drive us to get off the couch, how antidepressants work, ADHD, addiction, the microbiome, new habits, quitting smoking, starting meditation, Oreos vs. cocaine, SSRIs vs. SNRIs, what it's like to hold a human brain in your hands and if she would donate hers to science. Also: what's up with "lizard brains?" Dr. Dilworth's website: www.crystaldilworth.com Social media links: www.instagram.com/polycrystalhd & www.twitter.com/polycrystalhd A donation went to: seejane.org Sponsor links: withcove.com/ologies; mytruition.com/ologies; LinkedIn.com/ologies; betterhelp.com/ologies (code: OLOGIES); Stitchfix.com/ologies More links up at alieward.com/ologies/molecularneurobiology Transcripts & bleeped episodes at: alieward.com/ologies-extras Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, November 05, 2019
Chiropterology Part 2 (BATS) with Merlin Tuttle
PART 2: The stunning conclusion of a 3-hour gab session about frickin' bats with America's favorite chiropterologist, Dr. Merlin Tuttle. Learn about bat conversations, their close friendships, surprising dongs, where they keep their nipples, how to go bat spotting after the sun sets, more myths and misconceptions about bat danger, perhaps the grossest thing Merlin has ever put in his mouth, how to hang up a bat house for maximum bat party funtimes, the latest on white nose syndrome and how it feels to get slapped by a bat. Once again: Indiana Jones can get bent because Dr. Merlin Tuttle is the hero this nation needs. Learn more about bats & Dr. Merlin Tuttle's photography & work in conservation: www.MerlinTuttle.org Dr. Merlin Tuttle's bat books: www.merlintuttle.org/category/books/ Social media links: www.instagram.com/merlintuttlephoto www.twitter.com/merlinsbats www.facebook.com/MerlinTuttlesBatConservation Sponsor links: kiwi.com/ologies; calm.com/ologies; hellofresh.com/ologies9, code: Ologies9; mytruition.com/ologies; More links up at alieward.com/ologies/chiropterology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, October 29, 2019
Chiropterology (BATS) Part 1 with Merlin Tuttle
“People fear most what they understand least." Words of wisdom from explorer/American treasure/bat expert, Dr. Merlin Tuttle. Alie headed to the bat capital of Austin and sat down with the legendary chiropterologist to discuss wild field stories and close calls and caves and comebacks and bat chatter and what a bat actually is and how big they get and what's up with their smushy noses, why folks are so frightened by them, the evolution of flight, echolocation, getting a bat out of your house, how they sleep upside down, which ones guzzle blood, and the latest on white nose syndrome -- which is not a drug problem. Sit back with a cup of tea or something stronger and get ready for adventure. Indiana Jones can get bent because Dr. Merlin Tuttle is the hero this nation needs. Learn more about bats & Dr. Merlin Tuttle's photography & work in conservation: www.MerlinTuttle.org Dr. Merlin Tuttle's bat books: www.merlintuttle.org/category/books/ Social media links: www.instagram.com/merlintuttlephoto www.twitter.com/merlinsbats www.facebook.com/MerlinTuttlesBatConservation Sponsor links: periodbetter.com , code OLOGIES; Proactiv.com/skin ; StitchFix.com/OLOGIES ; Airbnb.com/animals More links up at alieward.com/ologies/chiropterology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, October 23, 2019
Demonology (EVIL SPIRITS) with Alyssa Beall
Demons, spooky spirits, devils, fallen angles, hungry ghosts: every culture has them. And West Virginia University Religious Studies professor, demonologist and history buff Dr. Alyssa Beall runs down how humans have used myths and stories to explain the feelings that make our hairs stand up and our stomaches sink. Is possession a mental illness? Are demons pranksters from hell? Is your baby evil or just cranky? And why do we like to be scared and poke at the line between life and death? Also: demon dongs. Oh wow. Follow Dr. Alyssa Beall at Instagram.com/religiontraveler October 25th free " Science under the Stars " event with Alie and Sarah McAnulty: 6-9pm, Silverlake Meadow, Los Angeles. Bring a picnic blanket and pee before you get there. Donations went to DoctorswithoutBorders.org and PlannedParenthood.org Sponsor links: periodbetter.com , code OLOGIES; BetterHelp.com/ologies; KiwiCo.com/ologies; LinkedIn.com/ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, October 15, 2019
Spidroinology (SPIDERWEBS) with Randy Lewis
Invisible but stronger than steel. Complex architectural marvels. Things that stick to your face. Spiderwebs are much more than just Halloween decor or something to feather dust from your corners. Spider silk expert Dr. Randy Lewis of Utah State University not only coined the word "spidroin" for the proteins comprising the many types of silk, but he is considered one of the foremost experts on the wonders of spiderwebs. Alie visits his lab and chats about how spiders weave them, what the silk is made of, the street value of a spool, future applications of spider silk, transgenic experimentation, best spider movies, worst spider myths and why he deserves an ice cream cake. You'll never (not) see a spiderweb the same. A donation went to the Women's Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Workshop Sponsor links: periodbetter.com , code OLOGIES; TakeCareOf.com code OLOGIES50; thegreatcoursesplus.com/OLOGIES ; calm.com/ologies More links up at alieward.com/ologies/spidroinology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, October 08, 2019
Cucurbitology (PUMPKINS) with Anne Copeland
PUMPKIN PUMPKIN! Not only a thing to scream while passing a patch, but also the name of author and human delight Anne Copeland's gourd opus. Yes, she's so charmed by pumpkins that she dedicated a whole book to exploring their folklore, history, planting protocol, care, and cooking. On a lark, Alie stops by her house in the rural hamlet of Yucaipa, California to chat about everything from creation myths surrounding pumpkins to Anne's favorite recipes, how to make a pumpkin last longer on your porch, the secret medicinal properties of pipitas, why humans might need to go bananas on Halloween, how to propose via pumpkin, and the big flimflam Anne needs the world to know about the pumpkin origin story. Also: who is Jack and why does he have a lantern? Anne Copeland's book " Pumpkin, Pumpkin: Folklore, History, Planting Hints and Good Eating " is available via Amazon And here: https://www.amazon.com/Pumpkin-Folklore-History-Planting-Eating-ebook/dp/B07YLFR119/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=pumpkin+pumpkin+copeland&qid=1570549807&sr=8-1 A donation went to Shriners Hospitals for Children Sponsor links: withcove.com/ologies ; periodbetter.com , code OLOGIES; betterhelp.com/ologies; HelixSleep.com/OLOGIES; Stitch Fix.com/OLOGIES More links up at alieward.com/ologies/cucurbitology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, October 02, 2019
Osteology (SKELETONS/BODY FARMS) with Daniel Wescott
Let's dig right into Spooktober with ... BONES. You're a steak-covered skeleton and it's nothing to fear. The amazingly kind and committed osteologist Dr. Daniel J. Wescott of Texas State University's famed Forensic Anthropology Research Center sits down -- surrounded by skulls and femurs and ribs -- and chats about how bones are formed, how they break, why they might hurt when the weather changes, what CSI gets wrong, how long it takes a body to decompose, looking for isotopes in found remains, cast iron coffins, skeleton myths, body donation, and more. Will Alie freak out, or will this exposure to hundreds of skeletons under one roof chill her out? Also, dickbones: are they for winners or losers? A donation went to the Texas State Forensic Anthropology Research Center Sponsor links: kiwi.com/ologies ; withcove.com/ologies ; HelloFresh.com/Ologies80 ; More links up at alieward.com/ologies/osteology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Special thanks to Dr. Joe Hanson Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, September 24, 2019
Phenology (FALL/SEASONS) with Libby Ellwood
The seasons are a-changin'! It's sweater weather in both hemispheres and seasonal researcher and expert Phenologist Dr. Libby Ellwood weighs in with amazing information about why fall smells so good, why leaves change color, why we like to cronch them, historical records of blossoms and twigs, bird migrations, Daylight Savings, seasonal mythbusting, pumpkin spice vs. apple cider, the best temperature to wear sweaters, why the Halloween aisle springs up in summer and how global temperature shifts affect the whole food web. Bonus: the most candid, touching thoughts Alie's ever heard from a scientist studying climate. Get this one in your ears and hearts. Follow Dr. Libby Ellwood on Twitter A donation went to SaveGPOrangutans.org Sponsor links: Zevoinsect.com/ologies ; linkedin.com/ologies ; calm.com/ologies ; betterhelp.com/ologies ; More links up at alieward.com/ologies/phenology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, September 17, 2019
Potterology Part 2 (WIZARD SCIENCE) with Rebecca Lai
**UPDATE: since this episode was first released, J.K. Rowling has said and written some deeply transphobic sentiments and for this, Alie no longer stans nor supports her. So in listening to this episode, let's marvel at the -ologist herself and her love of Chemistry and remember that feminism is intersectional and trans women are women, and trans folks are welcome and beloved in the Ologies universe.** PART 2: Your questions answered by Dr. Rebecca Lai, as a continuation of last week's foundational episode. Accio: ALL YOUR DREAMS COMING TRUE. Whether you've never read the Harry Potter series -- or you have dogeared copies on your nightstand -- there's something for everyone in this 2-part episode dissecting the science of the spells in J.K. Rowling's books. Electrochemist and professor Dr. Rebecca Lai is a devoted fan who teaches a university course called "A Muggle’s Guide to Harry Potter’s Chemistry." Alie travels to her lab at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to chat about disappearing ink, gold nanoparticles, ancient alchemy, spells that burn your enemy's eyes, others that protect you from the elements, how writing a novel is like a scientific experiment and how to keep going in the face of stumbling blocks. **Bonus: I managed not to swear, so you can listen with the kiddos in your life. A donation went to PBS.org Sponsor links: Zevoinsect.com/ologies ; TheGreatCoursesPlus.com/OLOGIES ; betterhelp.com/ologies ; kiwico.com/OLOGIES More links up at alieward.com/ologies/potterology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, September 10, 2019
Potterology Part 1 (WIZARD SCIENCE) with Rebecca Lai
**UPDATE: since this episode was first released, J.K. Rowling has said and written some deeply transphobic sentiments and for this, Alie no longer stans nor supports her. So in listening to this episode, let's marvel at the -ologist herself and her love of Chemistry and remember that feminism is intersectional and trans women are women, and trans folks are welcome and beloved in the Ologies universe.** Accio: ALL YOUR DREAMS COMING TRUE. Whether you've never read the Harry Potter series -- or you have dogeared copies on your nightstand -- there's something for everyone in this 2-part episode dissecting the science of the spells in J.K. Rowling's books. Electrochemist and professor Dr. Rebecca Lai is a devoted fan who teaches a university course called "A Muggle’s Guide to Harry Potter’s Chemistry." Alie travels to her lab at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to chat about disappearing ink, gold nanoparticles, ancient alchemy, spells that burn your enemy's eyes, others that protect you from the elements, how writing a novel is like a scientific experiment and how to keep going in the face of stumbling blocks. **Bonus: I managed not to swear, so you can listen with the kiddos in your life. A donation went to PBS.org Sponsor links: Zevoinsect.com/ologies ; TakeCareOf.com (code: OLOGIES); HelixSleep.com/ologies ; HelloFresh.com/ologies80 (code: OLOGIES80) More links up at alieward.com/ologies/potterology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, September 03, 2019
Vexillology (FLAGS) with E. Tory Laitila
Flags! How long have we flown them? Will you get arrested for stomping on one? Which ones are cute and which are fugly? Which colors don't we see on flags and why? How did all this flag etiquette originate? E. Tory Laitila, a textile expert who also handles Honolulu's flag protocol, gives the skinny on how to dispose of a flag, flags and conspiracy theories, history of the Pride flag, the oldest flags, which state flag needs a makeover the hardest, how to store flags, who designed our modern American flag and how you too can have ... fun with flags all year round. Also: pirate trivia. A donation went to: Connecting to Collections via CulturalHeritage.org Sponsor links: WithCove.com/ologies; barkbox.com/ologies; trueandco.com/ologies (code: Ologies); kiwi.com/ologies More links up at alieward.com/ologies/vexillology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, August 28, 2019
Paleontology (DINOSAURS) Encore Presentation with Michael Habib
It's a trip back in time to a baby podcast! Hear the humble beginnings of Ologies as your Ol' Dadward takes a week to celebrate her parents' 50th wedding anniversary. This encore presentation of Paleontology -- complete with new bells, whistles, intro and a fresh secret or two at the end -- will remind you of the wonders of dino digs. Dr. Michael Habib of the beloved Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County answers questions such as: Did Ross Gellar ruin being a paleontologist? What's the hot goss on dino feathers? How did some dinos have four wings? Which costs more: a used sedan or a dinosaur? Also covered: why Alie used to feel meh about dinos (DON'T JUDGE) and the realities of cloning. Oh and penis implants. We talk about penis implants. Next week we're back with a fresh as hell episode about Vexillology (FLAGS.) Get ready. Follow Dr. Habib at Twitter.com/aeroevo or Instagram.com/habibinator Sponsor links: kiwi.com/ologies; LinkedIn.com/ologies; FunctionofBeauty.com/ologies; trueandco.com/ologies (code: ologies) A donation went to: nhm.org More links up at alieward.com/ologies/Paleoencore Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, August 21, 2019
Disasterology (DISASTERS) with Samantha Montano
Floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, tornados, explosions, hurricanes, oil spills, bombings, BAD THINGS: Why do they happen? What can we do to prepare? What is a disaster vs. a catastrophe? Who makes it their life's work to go help? Professional Disasterologist and Emergency Management expert Dr. Samantha Montano sits down to talk about disaster movies, the addiction of helping others, the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the floods, looting, doomsday prepping, keeping calm under pressure, climate change, governmental budgets, cathedrals vs. islands, the myths of disasters, looking for the helpers, and how humans tend and befriend each other in times of chaos. Dr. Montano's website: disaster-ology.com Follow Dr. Montano on Twitter @SamLMontano Sponsor links: calm.com/ologies; Trueandco.com/ologies (code: ologies); kiwico.com/ologies A donation went to: billandersonfund.org More links up at alieward.com/ologies/disasterology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, August 14, 2019
100th Episode: Best Life Advice from Ologists + 100 More Ologies
ONE HUNDRED EPISODES, kiddos. From slimy hagfish coils on the ocean floor to the outer reaches of space. Into our brains and out a bird butt and beyond. Ol' Dadward reflects on the past 100 episodes by distilling the 5 best peptalk lifehack self-helpy pieces of advice she's learned from making Ologies for the last nearly two years. Also: a list of 100 potential more episodes and what's cooking for the next few weeks. A donation went the SciCommCamp.com scholarship fund Sponsor links: betterhelp.com/ologies (code: OLOGIES); TheGreatCoursesPlus.com/OLOGIES; TakeCareOf.com (code: OLOGIES) Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, August 06, 2019
Saurology (LIZARDS) with Earyn McGee
Saurologist and professional lizard scientist Earyn McGee visits Alie to go on a little lizard hunt, then they hunker down to chat about everything from tiny chameleons to drooling dragons, venomous thiccbois, legless lizards, geckos’ antigravity grip, festering dragon mouths, gila monster sightings, close encounters with lions, tangles of snoozy lizards, virgin births, and blood shooting from eyeballs. We also discuss Earyn’s wildly popular #FindThatLizard Twitter game and she gives us all some sound advice on social anxiety and how to succeed in literally any field or ambition. You’ll be squinting at bushes looking for lizards and when you see one, you’ll salute it. Follow Earyn at Twitter.com/afro_herper and Instagram.com/afro_herper Support #FindThatLizard via Patreon.com/findthatlizard A donation went to: the Doris Duke Conservation Scholarship Program Sponsor links: Stitcher.com/ologies; WithCove.com/ologies; KiwiCo.com/ologies; TrueandCo.com/ologies (code: Ologies); Progressive.com More links up at alieward.com/ologies/saurology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, July 31, 2019
Graphology (HANDWRITING/FORGERY) with Sylvia Kessler
Is it weird to have different handwritings? How do you forge ancient documents? What pen should you use to write checks? Who is the greediest person in American history? Forensic document examiner Sylvia Kessler met up with Alie in the back of a Nebraska office store to chat about penmanship, ransom notes, court cases, self-expression, and we *very* lightly touch on the fringe -ology that uses handwriting to analyze personalities and how Barnum knew best when it comes to carnival "magic." More about Sylva: http://forgerydetectionexperts.com A donation went to: Care.org Sponsor links: Stitcherapp.com/ologies; Trueandco.com/ologies (code: OLOGIES); Progressive.com; HelixSleep.com/OLOGIES Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Thu, July 25, 2019
Cnidariology (CORAL) with Shayle Matsuda
Will changing your sunscreen save coral reefs? What even IS a coral? Where do they grow and what do they eat and why are they so pretty? Is it reefs or reeves? The wonderful and charming coral biologist and cnidariologist Shayle Matsuda of the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology/UH Mānoa takes time out of his busy schedule during a coral spawning event to chat about how magical and beautiful coral can be and why reef health is important. Also: whether or not "Finding Nemo" got coral right, making transitions during grad school, and how to pursue your ambitions while being bravely authentic. He'll quickly become you favorite cnidariologist. Follow Shayle Matsuda on Twitter @wrong_whale Donations went to paepaeoheeia.org and pointfoundation.org Shayle's blog post about coral spawning Sponsor links: linkedin.com/ologies , kiwi.com/ologies , calm.com/ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, July 16, 2019
Disinfectiology (BLEACH) with Evan Rumberger
It lives under your sink and may have saved your life but… WHAT THE FUNK IS BLEACH? Hot off of a beaker-laden lab tour, Alie chats with Dr. Evan Rumberger, a bleach scientist, about his work, his history, what bleach IS, what it turns into, and how to appreciate this household staple. Also: what exactly is in swimming pools and how to tie-dye shirts when you’re goth. This was part of a partnership with Clorox, but Alie thought the chemistry was cool enough to share with Ologites. For more bleach facts, this link's got 'em: FactsAboutBleach.com A donation went to the EvidenceAction.org Sponsor links: Progressive.com ; TheGreatCoursesPlus.com/Ologies ; functionofbeauty.com/ologies , TakeCareOf.com (code: OLOGIES) Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, July 10, 2019
Nomology Part 2: (THE CONSTITUTION): Let's read the whole friggin thing.
Have you ever read every word of The U.S. Constitution? You don't have to, because ol' Dadward here is about to read it into your ears and give little sidenotes to make sure we both understand it. This episode is a follow up to Nomology with law professor Franita Tolson, so start there for the basics and learn why knowing your rights and using your voice can change the future. Follow Franita Tolson at Twitter.com/ProfTolson and read more about her work here . More links at alieward.com/ologies/nomology An additional donation went to the American Civil Liberties Union. Learn more at www.aclu.org Sponsor links: Progressive.com ; kiwi.com/ologies ; TrueandCo.com/ologies (Code: ologies) Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, July 02, 2019
Nomology (THE CONSTITUTION) with Franita Tolson
If you've never read The Constitution, you're like most of us. What does it even say?! Most Americans aren't law scholars, which is why we sat down with a Dean of USC's Gould School of Law, Professor Franita Tolson, to have her give us the crib sheet on the most important document in the free world. What's up with the amendments? What are the articles? What does it mean to be an American? What rights do we have? How did we get them and how do we keep them? We also discuss what it was like having Barack Obama as her law professor, if she reads the Apple Terms & Conditions, the Civil Rights Movement, Hamilton, whether Trump can be impeached, how to get familiar with the best SCOTUS gossip and Shonda Rhimes. By the end of the episode, you'll be able to wink at the Constitution and say "I get you" and you also might be engaging in more peaceful protests or applying to law school or hanging Professor Tolson's portrait on your wall. Follow Franita Tolson at Twitter.com/ProfTolson and read more about her work here . More links at alieward.com/ologies/nomology A donation went to the American Civil Liberties Union. Learn more at www.aclu.org Sponsor links: Progressive.com ; TheGreatCoursesPlus.com/Ologies; WITHCOVE.com/ologies ; OhMyGut.info/podcast Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, June 25, 2019
Cabinology (CABINS) with Dale Mulfinger
Log cabins, woodsy getaways, A-frame cuties, cottages, tiny homes, lake houses: WE GET INTO IT. World famous Minnesota architect, author, professional cabinologist and human delight Dale Mulfinger sits down to discuss everything from what makes a cabin a cabin, to why we bond better surrounded by wood, Scandinavian hygge-ness, where to situate windows, cabin history, horror flicks and vacation activities. Alie sits there starry-eyed and stammers a bunch because she's so excited. More on Dale Mulfinger: salaarc.com SALA Architects on Instagram Donations went to: Clarence Wigington Minority Architectural Scholarship & slavedwellingproject.org Sponsor links: Progressive.com , “ You ” podcast by Okta; Kiwico.com/Ologies ; , OhMyGut.info/podcast More links at alieward.com/ologies/cabinology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, June 18, 2019
Disease Ecology (LYME/TICK-BORNE ILLNESSES) with Andrea Swei
Lyme Disease! Powassan virus! That Lonestar tick meat allergy! Paralysis ticks! Acarology taught us all about the eight-legged villains that aim for our crevices, but Disease Ecologist Dr. Andrea Swei offers a deep dive under the skin to learn more about what nasties a tick can give us. We chat a whole bunch about Lyme Disease: its prevalence, testing, treatment, which animals carry it, “chronic Lyme” vs. post-treatment Lyme. We also cover how lizards might harbor a helpful protein, two Ukrainian princesses by the names of Borrelia and Babesia, why you'll want chickens and possums hanging out at your barbecues, Lyme vaccines, pet care, symptoms, prevention and what scares her most. This one's a wonderful episode on its own, but is even better as a follow up to Acarology: the nightmare lesson of how ticks work. Listen to the Acarology (TICKS) episode: alieward.com/ologies/acarology Follow Dr. Swei on Twitter @ Andeswei or @ SweiLab Donations went to: Union of Concerned Scientists , and 826 Valencia Sponsor links: “You” podcast by Okta; Kiwico.com/Ologies ; HelixSleep.com/Ologies ; thegreatcoursesplus.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/diseaseecology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, June 11, 2019
Island Ecology (ISLANDS) with Andy Kraemer
What IS an island? How do birds and plants and mammals GET there? Why do we like going to islands? Dr. Andy Kraemer studies how life populates and survives on hunks of remote rock and chats all about the Galapagos Islands -- where he does his research. We address the smallest island in the world, the largest, some bananas biological adaptations, Darwin's finchy mistakes, some nude people and a Baroness who got caught up in a homicide scandal, and shrinking skeletons. Also: pirates and prison islands. Follow Dr. Andy Kraemer at www.twitter.com/andykraemer Donations went to: islandconservation.org and ecologyproject.org Sponsor links: Podcast " YOU " by Okta, TakeCareOf.com (code OLOGIES), Trueandco.com/ologies ( code: OLOGIES), Progressive.com More links at alieward.com/ologies/islandecology You Are That podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/00WJ2qzCeIeetwRy23ABEZ Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Wed, June 05, 2019
Acarology (TICKS) with Neeta Pardanani Connally
Ticks: They’re tiny. They’re thirsty. They’re drooling vectors of various illnesses and they want nothing more than to cuddle up to your darkest crevices. In the episode, learn how to remove a tick, if you should spray your yard and with what, how landscaping affects tick exposure, why Lyme Disease is spreading, the Lone Star Tick rolling into town, how to protect your pets and why the CC ruined poppyseed muffins. Acarologist, medical entomologist and tick expert Dr. Neeta Pardanani Connally chats with me from her West Connecticut State University Tick Lab to discuss al of these things and to charm her way into your heart like a hypostome under your skin. Follow Dr. Neeta Pardanani Connally at: Twitter.com/tickLab Instagram.com/TickLab Her website: wcsuticklab.com A donation was made to TickEncounter.org Her videos are up at SpraySafePlaySafe.org Sponsor links: bioliteenergy.com/ologies (code: Ologies); KiwiCo.com/ologies ; LinkedIn.com/Ologies ; Storyworth.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/acarology You Are That podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/00WJ2qzCeIeetwRy23ABEZ Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, May 28, 2019
Psychological Traumatology (PTSD & STRESS) with Nicholas Barr
What happens to the brain under extreme stress? Why do past traumas haunt us? What kind of therapies work for veterans? And what can we do in day-to-day life to be more resilient to adverse experiences? Traumatologist and social worker Dr. Nicholas Barr has studied PTSD in veterans and homeless youth and explains how traumas affect the rest of our lives and how to bounce back by getting a little help. Also: great resources for lower-cost therapy and what you can do to support loved ones who have experienced trauma. Oh, and Alie needs to adopt a dog. Follow Dr. Nicholas Barr at twitter.com/DrNicholasBarr1 A donation was made to: militaryfamily.org Sponsor links: KiwiCo.com/ologies , OMGyes.com/ologies , AirBNB.com/Experiences More links at alieward.com/ologies/traumatology You Are That podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/00WJ2qzCeIeetwRy23ABEZ Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, May 21, 2019
Behavioral Ecology (REPRODUCTIVE TRADEOFFS) with Amy Worthington
Why do we bone? Why should we have kids? When should we have kids? Crickets might answer all these questions. Dr. Amy Worthington of Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska studies "life history tradeoffs:" when to allocate resources to reproduction versus preserving your own health. Whether you're an insect ghosting a buster mate or a millennial waiting to have kids until the economy gets better, you may learn a thing or two about whether having kids is worth it. Follow Dr. Amy Worthington at Twitter.com/WorthingtonLab Dr. Worthington's blog amymworthington.wordpress.com A donation was made to: fontenelleforest.org Sponsor links: KiwiCo.com/ologies , OhMyGut.info/podcast , awaytravel.com/ologies (code: OLOGIES), Trueandco.com/ologies (code: OLOGIES) More links up at www.alieward.com/ologies/behavioralecology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Bonus · Thu, May 16, 2019
BONUS Minisode: Preview of Alie on Bill Nye's "Science Rules!"
Announcement: BILL NYE HAS A PODCAST. And Alie's his first guest. Bill Nye’s on a mission to change the world, one phone call at a time and yer ol’ Dadward VonPodcast is first in the chair helping field questions. Yes she is freaking out about this and yes you should listen. In “Science Rules!," he tackles the curliest questions on just about anything in the universe with his signature knowledge and affability. And Alie shares her strategies for science communication. Take a listen to the preview here and then get the full episode of Alie on “Science Rules!” TODAY via your favorite podcast app or the link below. Full episode here: https://www.askbillnye.com Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, May 14, 2019
Mycology (MUSHROOMS) with Tom Volk
Mushrooms! Psilocybin! Humungous fungus! Black mold! Foraging! The incredibly charming and warm Dr. Tom Volk, world-renown mushroom expert, welcomes Alie into his office to dive deep into the underground world of fungal enthusiasts and touch on pathogens and medicinal therapies. Dr. Volk himself is a heart transplant patient, and shares how his life has been changed since a donor saved it. Also: Alie holds his old heart in her hands. Dr. Tom Volk's awesome fungus website This week's donations were made to DonateLife.net and The Mycological Society of America Sponsor links: KiwiCo.com/ologies , BioliteEnergy.com/Ologies (code: OLOGIES), Takecareof.com (code OLOGIES30), TheGreatCoursesPlus.com/Ologies , Stitchfix.com/Ologies More links up at www.alieward.com/ologies/mycology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, May 07, 2019
Bufology (TOADS) with Priya Nanjappa
Toaaaaads! Friend or foe? Dive into a toad hollow with bufologist and charming human Priya Nanjappa, who is a wealth of knowledge and a font of affection for toads. Which toads are the biggest, the most poisonous, the history of the cane toad, toad licking, orgies with pythons, mating calls, evolution, wart film flam, witch myths , toad abodes and more. This episode will change the way you crouch down and shake hands with your tiny backyard grumpa. Follow Priya at www.twitter.com/toadallypriya or Instagram.com/wildbeautifulworld A donation was made to The Amphibian & Reptile Conservancy: https://amphibianandreptileconservancy.org Sponsor links: Trueandco.com/ologies (code: ologies); KiwiCo.com/ologies ; LinkedIn.com/ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, April 30, 2019
Minisode: All of My Secret Travel Trips + Some Updates
THAT'S RIGHT IT'S A MINISOHDA FROM MINNESOHDA. On the last stop of a six-state Midwest tour interviewing -ologists for future episodes, your ol' Dadward Von Podcast was going to serve up a re-run this week. HOWEVER, I love you all too much and instead I recorded a solo episode in my rental car of the best travel tips I've amassed from the last decade of being on the road. How to pack, what to pack, ideas for mini-trips that don't cost a lot, airport etiquette, cheap flight strategies, why first class actually kinda sucks, face hammocks, how to avoid single-use plastics on the road, offsetting your carbon footprint, jet lag busters, hydration reminders and more. A compact quick episode chock-o-block with secret tips to make your trips go smoothly. Recorded in a rental car in broad daylight in Minneapolis. Also a donation went to: www.carbon fund.org . Sponsor links: Nutter Puffs amazon.com/popchips (code: 20OLOGIES); Calm www.calm.com/ologies ; CLR www.CLRbrands. com Huge thank you to all of the folks in the Ologies Transcribers Facebook group and Emily White for making transcripts a reality. If you need a professional transcriptionist: hireEmilyWhite@gmail.com. She is truly a gem. Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, April 23, 2019
Addictionology (ADDICTION) with Erin Parisi
"Addiction doesn't have to be a bummer!," quoth addictionologist Erin Parisi, who has some uplifting and hopeful tales from her professional life. But content warning: it's definitely not a day in the park. Tune in for some info on alcohol dependence, smoking, opiates, behavioral addictions, how addiction can futz with your reward systems, some sobering statistics, what we can learn from rat parties, how childhood experiences can set the stage for substance dependence later, how many people are in recovery, what to do if a friend or loved one seems to have a problem, how to tell if you might have a problem, enjoying your grandpa's casserole, cuddling babies and more. Erin Parisi's website: www.erincanhelp.com To find publicly-funded treatment centers in your state, call 1-800-622-HELP or go to www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov For sliding scale therapy, look into openpathcollective.org Donations were made to: DrugAbuse.gov and EndtheBacklog.org Sponsor links: KiwiCo.com/ologies , StitchFix.com/ologies , Zola.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/addictionology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, April 16, 2019
Hagfishology (HAGFISH) with Tim Winegard
Hagfish: these floppy hot dogs of the deep sea deserve our undying respect. Tim Winegard is a professional hagfishologist (YES IT'S A WORD) at Chapman University, and he dishes on the world's slimiest treasures. Prepare to hear about swift escapes, spellbinding clots of slime, patchy backstories, aphrodisiacs, outlasting extinction events, why you don't always need a spine, eating your way out of a dead whale, and -- like a slippery messiah -- turning water to slime. Also Alie confronts her fear of m*cus. Comparative Biomaterials Lab at Chapman University: https://sites.chapman.edu/fudge/ Sponsors: TrueandCo.com/ologies (code: ologies), TakeCareof.com (code: Ologies50), amazon.com/popchips (code: 20Ologies) This week's donation went to the Wildlife Research Station: https://www.algonquinwrs.ca More links at alieward.com/ologies/hagfishology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, April 09, 2019
Scorpiology (SCORPIONS) with Lauren Esposito
Scorpions: the victims of undue shade. If you've ever wanted to impress a date with weird facts THIS IS THE EPISODE FOR YOU. A handful of people on planet Earth have a PhD in scorpions and Dr. Lauren Esposito is one of them. She spills the beans on how venom works, what's up with the blacklight glow effect, how dangerous they *really* are, what all the movies get wrong, the best names for scorpions, where she's traveled to look under rocks, where a scorpion's butt is, if scorpions dance or make out (SPOILER: YES), what good mothers they are, how big they used to be millions of years ago and how -- technically speaking -- they are not poisonous. Also: how much does a gallon of venom cost? Oh, and why she started the visibility campaign 500 Queer Scientists. Get this one in your ears right away. Follow Dr. Esposito at twitter.com/arachnologynerd or instagram.com/caribales and check out 500QueerScientists.com Sponsor links: Calm.com/Ologies , KiwiCo.com/Ologies , LinkedIn.com/Ologies This week's donation went to: www.Islandsseas.org More links at alieward.com/ologies/scorpiology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, April 02, 2019
FIELD TRIP: How to Change Your Life via the Natural History Museum of LA
After last week's heavy episode, Alie takes a little break with a Field Trip to one of her favorite places, the Natural History Museum of LA County. Hop in her pocket to hear about singing trees, hungry harpy eagles, architectural antelopes, crows that know your car, a pelt vault, sea serpents, willow huts, why Alie started loitering around in a vest, her personal list of must-see hidden exhibits, "Secrets from the Vault," her new live series for First Fridays in April and June, plus excerpts from the NHM's new book, Wild LA: Explore the Amazing Nature in and Around Los Angeles -- and how volunteering could quite possibly change your life. Also: the worst shoes ever. More info on the museum at NHM.org First Fridays: Secrets from the Vault VIDEO: Last month's "Secrets from the Vault" livestream with Dr. Jann Vandetti: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lq3FUnwvrO0&t=1369s Wild LA book! Get it!: https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Explore-Amazing-Nature-Angeles/dp/1604697105 A donation was made to TicketsforKids.org Sponsor links: TheGreatCoursesPlus.com/ologies , Stitchfix.com/ologies , TrueandCo.com/ologies (code Ologies), More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/fieldtripNHM OlogiesMerch.com has hats, pins, totes, shirts, etc. Follow Ologies at Instagra m or Twitter Follow Alie Ward at Instagram or Twitter.com Editing by Steven Ray Morris Ologies theme music by Nick Thorburn Music beds by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) "Drone In D," "Division," and "Garden Music" Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License Special thanks to Erin Talbert and Hannah Lipow for adminning the Ologies Podcast Facebook group, to Boni Dutch and Shannon Feltus for managing OlogiesMerch.com, to interns Caleb Patton and Haeri Kim, and to editor Steven Ray Morris. I FERGOTTED TO DO THAT PART OF THE POD! <a href="http://Pa
Tue, March 26, 2019
Victimology (CRIME VICTIMS) with Callie Rennison
In a world saturated with CSI spinoffs and true crime documentaries, we look at a criminology subset focusing not on the pathology of the killers, but on the victims of crime: their experiences, vulnerability, survival rates, statistics, trauma, and recovery. In the least goofy episode to date, the brilliant and warm professional victimologist Dr. Callie Rennison of the University of Colorado chats about resources, historical changes of perspective, gender's role in victimization and how people of color and Native populations are at a tragically higher risk for violent victimization. Also covered, PTSD and fear at school, trauma from homophobia and how Dr. Rennison used Brock Turner as a textbook illustration for a rapist. If the superficial thirst for serial killer stats doesn't sit quite right with you or you'd love a career that gives back, this episode might be just what you need. Also please get a Ph.D and be one of Dr. Rennison's colleagues. Follow Dr. Callie Rennison on Twitter Sponsor links: Trueandco.com/ologies (code: Ologies) & Amazon.com/popchips (code 20ologies) This week's donations were made to RAINN.org , Just Be, Inc. , Common Justice , IWGIA , GRIP & All Parrot Rescue More links at alieward.com/ologies/victimology " Indivisible " book by Christine Mason Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn <a href="http://Patreon.
Tue, March 19, 2019
Astrobiology (ALIENS) with Kevin Peter Hand
ALIENS! EXTRATERRESTRIALS! MARTIANS! Let's. Get. Into. It. The phenomenal Dr. Kevin Peter Hand of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory dishes on the oceans of distant moons, methane rivers, E.T., ice crusts, what might be out there, the timeline of possibly finding them, ghosts, aliens, dark matter, if we should fear making contact with intergalactic beings, if the government is hiding alien secrets, how finding extraterrestrial microbes would change the way we see life on this here tiny blue dot in space. Also: the galactic bulge. Dr. Kevin Peter Hand's JPL profile Dr. Kevin Peter Hand on Twitter: @alienoceans and Instagram @kevin_peter_hand Sponsor links: KiwiCo.com/Ologies , Calm.com/Ologies This week's donations were made to Traveling Telescope & Vermont's Manchester Rescue Squad More links at alieward.com/ologies/astrobiology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, March 12, 2019
Ludology (VIDEO GAMES) with Jane McGonigal
Video games! Tabletop games! IRL role-play gaming! The ... lottery? Dr. Jane McGonigal is a video game developer, TED speaker, bestselling author and total badass with a deep knowledge of how games -- and especially video games -- can motivate, soothe and connect us. We talk about everything from Monopoly to dance offs, Fortnite, vintage Atari, VR, the challenge of Dark Souls, the sweetness of League of Legends, how Tetris can get you through rough times and the health issue that caused Dr. McGonigal to create her huge hit, SuperBetter. Also: why everyone who loves games and everyone who hates games should hear this. JaneMcGonigal.com Dr. Jane McGonigal on Twitter: @Avantgame Sponsor links: TakeCareof.com (code: OLOGIES50), LinkedIn.com/Ologies , StitchFix.com/ologies This week's donation was made to AbleGamers.org More links at alieward.com/ologies/ludology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, March 05, 2019
Etymology (WORD ORIGINS) with Helen Zaltzman of The Allusionist Podcast
The brilliant and dazzling Helen Zaltzman, host of The Allusionist podcast and person who technically for a living researches the origins of language and thus is an etymologist, visits Alie's apartment to chat about various word origins, gender in language, the Bible a.k.a. The Oxford English Dictionary, origins of the filthiest slang, emoji decoding, mediocrity, step parents, babies wearing glasses, Greek kimonos, the romance of languages and the fundamental truth that language is always changing whether you want it to or not. Also tomatoes, pliable boobs, avocados, and fish trails. The Allusionist Podcast , HelenZaltzman.com Follow Helen on Twitter & Instagram Sponsor links: TrueandCo.com/ologies (code: ologies) & Amazon.com/popchips (code: 20ologies) This week's donation was made to POPStheclub.com More links at alieward.com/ologies/etymology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 26, 2019
Thermophysiology (BODY HEAT) with Shane Campbell-Staton
This episode, and Dr. Shane Campbell-Staton, are a true joy. The UCLA professor, host of the Biology of Superheroes Podcast and Thermophysiologist talks about big animals vs. little ones, lizard storms, dinosaur blood, hibernating bears, why you sweat in your sleep, antifreeze frogs, miracle hamsters, why different people run at very different temperatures, how comic books influence the way he sees science, learning how his brain works and some time management hacks that he uses as a professor and host of an amazing podcast. Get ready to have a new science buddy. Listen to The Biology of Super Heroes Follow Dr. Campbell-Staton on Twitter , as well as his podcast Sponsor links: TheGreatCourses.com/ologies , Kiwico.com/ologies , and podsurvey.com/ologies This week's donation was made to the Environmental Defense Fund More links at alieward.com/ologies Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 19, 2019
Personality Psychology (PERSONALITIES) with Simine Vazire
WHO ARE WE? Personality researcher & psychology professor Dr. Simine Vazire dishes about introverts, extroverts, self-esteem, sociopaths, neuroticism, conscientiousness, Buzzfeed quizzes, yearbook inscriptions, trusting people, screwing up your kids, acting like your parents, changing personality traits through therapy or medication and astrology being put to the test. Also, Alie finds out what kind of dog she is. Dr. Simine Vazire on Twitter This week's donation was made to improvingpsych.org Sponsor links: TheGreatCourses.com/ologies , Takecareof.com (promo code: Ologies50), Handy.com/ologies (promo code: Ologies), and TimesuckPodcast.com More links at alieward.com/ologies/personalitypsychology Dr. Vazire's podcast, The Black Goat Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 12, 2019
Matrimoniology (MARRIAGE) with Ben Karney
Love! Romance! Intimate relationships! Marriage! Divorce! Remarriage! Clowns! This episode has it all. The wonderfully warm Dr. Benjamin Karney of the UCLA Marriage lab has been studying romance and intimate relationships for 20 years and sits down to chat about being single and the mechanisms behind finding a partner, what behaviors foster intimacy, why some couples stay together vs. splitting up, some bananas proposals, wedding budgets, how parenting affects marriage, historical problems with matrimony and his own experiences with marriage and divorce. These behaviors are also so applicable to friendships, work partnerships and as it turns out...professional clowns. Dr. Ben Karney at the UCLA Marriage Lab This week's donation was made to Care.org , which works to end gender-based violence. Sponsor links: TheGreatCourses.com/ologies , Linkedin.com/ologies , TrueandCo.com/ologies More links at alieward.com/ologies/matrimoniology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, February 05, 2019
Biogerontology (AGING) with Caleb Finch
How long can we live? How much of aging is genetics vs. environment? What does oral hygiene have to do with brain health? What causes Alzheimer’s? How do turtles and naked mole rats live so long? Are there any proven strategies for living a longer life? What's up with whiskey and eggs? World-renowned aging expert and biogerontologist Dr. Caleb "Tuck" Finch takes a quick break from his prolific research at USC to answer Alie's sometimes stupid questions about everything from molecules to movies. And she only has like, 3 life-altering epiphanies during the episode. This week's donation was made to CureALZ.org More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/biogerontology " I don't have time for bullshit " pen by Cole Imperi Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 29, 2019
Cheloniology (SEA TURTLES) with Camryn Allen
If you think you like sea turtles, get ready to become wildly obsessed with them. Cheloniologist Dr. Camryn Allen met up with Alie on a tropical island (ok, in a hotel room on a tropical island) to chat about flipper slappings, turtle rodeos, nesting BBs, current surfing, endangered statuses, field work, sleeping under water, world records, boopable noses, male:female ratios, mind-boggling navigation, what you can do to help them, and the many mysteries that still remain. Take a deep dive into the world of seartles. Or is it surtles? Follow Dr. Camryn Allen on Twitter This week's donation was made to Hawaii Marine Animal Response Sponsor links: kiwico.com/ologies , zola.com/ologies , & trueandco.com/ologies More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/cheloniology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 22, 2019
Testudinology (TORTOISES) with Amanda Hipps
What's a tortoise? What's a turtle? Why do they live so dang long? What's up with their junk? Wildlife biologist and testudinologist Amanda Hipps studies gopher tortoises and dishes about turtle nomenclature, cliques, dicks, behavior, burrows, evolution, habitats and more. If you don't dig tortoises yet, you're about to fall deep into a turtle tunnel in love with them. Follow Amanda Hipps on Instagram or Twitter This week's donation was made to AlongsideWildlifeFoundation.org Sponsor link: www.thegreatcourses.com/ologies More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/testudinology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 15, 2019
Snow Hydrology (SNOW & AVALANCHES) with Ned Bair
It's tiny! It's beautiful! It's cold! It can kill you. Snow and avalanche expert Dr. Ned Bair meets up on a bench during a layover to chat about the beauty of snowflakes, the best ammo for snowball fights, firing cannons at mountainsides, avalanche flam-flam, the dangers of snow patrolling, a lifesaving goat-antelope, the best and worst ski movies and a mentor that changed his life. Also: bomb cyclones and some tips on excavating your car. Or just staying inside. More on Dr. Ned Bair's work This week's donation was made to ESAvalanche.org Sponsor links: www.kiwico.com/ologies , www.thegreatcourses.com/ologies , www.linkedin.com/ologies More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/snowhydrology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarret Sleeper Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 08, 2019
Felinology (CATS) with Mikel Delgado
We love them. We live with them. We are mystified by them. Alie hunted down professional cat behavior expert Dr. Mikel Delgado who dishes on everything from toilet training to feral taming to neonatal kittens to cats eating our dead bodies to domestication, toxoplasmosis, litter box strategies, cats on leashes, why they want to sit on your laptop, how to play with cat toys the right way, why cats drool, if tigers make biscuits, catnip stupors and so much more. Get inside the head of your favorite, furry enigmas and you'll love them even more. Also: scoop that box. Dr. Mikel Delgado's Twitter , website , and business FelineMinds.com A donation was made to www.KittenCentralofPlacerCounty.org Sponsor links: trueandco.com/ologies , www.thegreatcourses.com/ologies , www.careof.com (Code: Ologies50) More links at www.alieward.com/ologies/felinology Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 08, 2019
Minisode: Ologies Upgrades & Changes for 2019
A few things are changing in the world of Ologies and I just wanted to take a few minutes in this bare-bones minisode to lay 'em out. Transcripts and bleeped versions will be available in the next month or two, donations are going to specific Ologist-chosen charities per episode, and finally, Ologies puts on big pants and has sponsors. Will I call you and talk to you about a bra? I just might. Thank you for listening, for being Ologites and friends and Patrons. I love making this podcast and I'm excited to bring you another whole year. Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, January 01, 2019
Entomophagy Anthropology (EATING BUGS AS SUSTAINABLE PROTEIN) with Julie Lesnik
DO YOU CARE ABOUT THE APOCALYPSE? Okay cool. No matter what your diet, get this episode in your ears. Entomophagy Anthropologist Dr. Julie Lesnik -- an enthusiastic expert on bug eating -- breaks down the human past, present and future of insect cuisine for our surging population. If you're considering cutting back on meat, or if you're a vegan helping others explore more sustainable options, Dr. Lesnik will get you pumped as hell for changing mindsets. We talk about grasshopper tacos, ant omelettes, the nature of life, humane bug slaughter, water conservation, deep-fried scorpions, at-home mealworm farming, cricket chips, protein needs and the cultural biases that are literally killing us. Also: termite farts. Dr. Julie Lesnik's website, www.entomoanthro.org Subscribe to her brand new YouTube channel, Octopus & Ape To try crickets: EatChirps.com , use code Ologies10 for 10% off Chirp Chips Aly Moore's Bugible.com and EatBugsEvents.com More links at www.alieward.com Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris and Jarrett Sleeper Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, December 25, 2018
Ornithology (BIRDS) Encore Presentation with James Maley
Birds! Horned screamers! Winged pirates! Just in time for the Audubon's winter Christmas Bird Count (which goes until Jan. 5) here is an encore presentation of an early episode. Professional bird-person and all around cool dude James Maley joins Alie to talk about bird mating, monogamy, the cult of ornithology, absurd birds, parrots that are smarter than your friends' kids, a surprising fact about owl ears and history's most tragically zealous bird nerds. If you love birds, you'll be at home. If a bird did you dirty, you'll open your heart and learn to love again. Moore Lab of Zoology on Instagram @mlzbirds James Maley on Twitter More links at www.alieward.com Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, December 18, 2018
Mixology (COCKTAILS) with Matthew Biancaniello
Foraging, infusing, shaking, stirring: this one's got it all. How do you make weird, fancy drinks at home? How much booze should you buy for a party? What drinks do bartenders hate to make? How can you avoid a hangover? What are the best mocktails? Famed bar chef and mixologist Matthew Biancaniello tours Alie through Malibu fire aftermath and talks about his boggling backstory, why he doesn't go out much, the secret formula to making good drinks and why you shouldn't be afraid to be weird. Matthew's website and Instagram @EatYourDrink More links at www.alieward.com Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris and Jarrett Sleeper Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, December 11, 2018
Selenology (THE MOON) with Raquel Nuno
Are we crazier during a full moon? What is the Moon made of? Can we move to the Moon? Was the Moon landing a hoax? What's up with all those craters? Planetary geologist and selenologist Raquel Nuno loves the Moon and sits down to answer approximately 1 million of Alie's shameless questions. Gaze into the sky with newfound understanding and appreciation for our glowing buddy in the sky. Also: a burst bladder and a drunk moose. Raquel Nuno's website and Instagram @thespacegeologist More links at www.alieward.com Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris and Jarrett Sleeper Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, December 04, 2018
Classical Archaeology (ANCIENT ROME) with Darius Arya
If you LIVE for drama, you will LOVE dead Romans. Wars, murders, opulence and uprisings: a little something for everyone. Classical Archaeologist and TV host Dr. Darius Arya dishes about priceless garbage piles, lead poisoning, ancient political scandals, pottery graveyards, unearthing sculptures, tomb discoveries, what's under European cities, and how Roman society was a little like America these days. But also a lot different. And what we can learn from it. Dr. Darius Arya's website, DariusAryaDigs.com . He's also on Twitter and Instagram @DariusAryaDigs More links at www.alieward.com Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, November 27, 2018
Microbiology (GUT BIOME) with Elaine Hsiao
LOVE YOUR GUTS. 90% of your serotonin is made in your guts and you have hundreds of trillions of friends clinging to you at all times. Microbiologist Dr. Elaine Hsiao is a total badass who runs her own lab investigating the role of the gut biome in behaviors. She sat down to chat about anxiety, depression, elusive fecal transplants, autism, epilepsy, kombucha promises, autoimmune disorders, probiotics and more. Alie fanned out pretty hard and asked all of the questions about how your beloved, simmering insides affect your brain. It's gut-busting, mind-blowing info. Check out Dr. Elaine Hsiao's lab or follow her on Twitter @pipethero Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, November 20, 2018
Grateful-ology (GRATITUDE) is not totally a real word
A (perhaps) much-needed refresher course on last year's gratitude minisode. As a friend of a friend's hairdresser once said: "It's hard to be hateful with a plateful of grateful." Is it? In this pre-holidays quickie episode, Alie is grumpy as hell and decides to research the neuroscience of gratitude. Does it work? Who's studying it? Does she need to buy a journal? Find out how jotting down things you don't hate on the back of a receipt or opening a secret Twitter account may be worth more than whatever you get in your office Secret Santa exchange. Learn more about the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, November 13, 2018
Food Anthropology (FEASTS) with Katherine Spiers
Loosen your belts and tuck a napkin under your chin because feasting season is here. Katherine Spiers -- journalist, food anthropologist and host of the wondrous culinary history podcast Smart Mouth -- lets Alie belly up for a buffet of questions about winter gatherings, Thanksgiving myths, stuffed peacocks, green bean casseroles, potato backstories, Friendsgivings, the hazards of deep frying, the eels of Jesus, some stuffing horrors and more. Listen to Smart Mouth (perhaps the episodes with Alie "Lobster Roll" Ward & Steven Ray "Corndogs" Morris ?) Katherine Spiers's website , Twitter & Instagram . Her brand new podcast network is TableCakes . Special thanks to poet and writer Kenzie Allen ( @cerena on Twitter) for the insight & resources on Native perspectives of Thanksgiving. Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, November 06, 2018
Eschatology (THE APOCALYPSE) with Phil Torres
Doomsday. The apocalypse. The End. Join scholar, author and professional existential risk philosopher Phil Torres for a surprisingly jovial romp through different "Oops we're screwed" scenarios that will lead to the destruction of the planet or extinction of our species. (Not to be confused with lepidopterologist/butterfly man, Phil Torres.) Find out where we're at on Ye Olde Doomsday clock, if any of us should have babies, if AI will destroy us, pop-cultural Antichrists, Black Mirror, simulations, technology as friend or foe, why voting matters (lookin’ at you, America) and how to remain chill in the face of doom. Also: the hottest underground bunkers on the market. Phil Torres is on Twitter @Xriskology and his website is www.risksandreligion.or g Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, October 30, 2018
Corvid Thanatology (CROW FUNERALS) with Kaeli Swift
Crows have funerals? CROWS HAVE FUNERALS. The inky black bird with the big brain warns and maybe mourns around their fallen friends and Dr. Kaeli Swift is here to tell us all about it. As an avid wildlife researcher and corvid specialist, she's observed death behaviors that will shock you to your bones and ruffle your hackles -- while somehow also making you cry about peanuts. Also: so much inspiration to keep being yourself and to work hard toward what you love. She is a hero. Dr. Kaeli Swift's Blog , YouTube , Twitter & Instagram Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, October 23, 2018
Somnology (SLEEP) Part 2 with Dr. W. Chris Winter
Have you listened to Part 1 yet? No? Go on, git. Go do that. Now if you have, this Part 2 is a bonanza of problem solving from neurologist and somnologist Dr. W. Chris Winter. He'll cover: if you should be taking sleep supplements or pills, sleep talking, apnea, why sleepiness makes us hungry, narcolepsy, the difference between insomnia and sleep deprivation, how to lucid dream, the dangers of shift work and some tactics to lull yourself to dreamland without any medications. ALSO: I share a family secret: my mom's insomnia buster -- newly dubbed the "Sleepy Fancy Nancy" -- that has literally never failed me. Dr. W. Chris Winter's sleep clinic Dr. W. Chris Winter's book Follow twitter.com/sportsleepdoc Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, October 16, 2018
Somnology (SLEEP) Part 1 with W. Chris Winter
Birds do it. Bees do it. Why the hell can't we do it? Called "The Sleep Whisperer," neurologist and sleep specialist Dr. W. Chris Winter joins Alie for a thrilling 2-parter about why we need sleep, the ideal amount of it, what sleep does to the brain, insomnia, sleep stages, ideal bedtime conditions, and even the historical lore around sleep paralysis. Next week, we'll answer listener questions about everything from sleeping pills to brain performance to insomnia cures to apnea to sleepwalking to parenthood and shift work. Think of it as a free seminar to fix your life. Maybe. Dr. W. Chris Winter's sleep clinic Dr. W. Chris Winter's book Follow twitter.com/sportsleepdoc Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, October 09, 2018
Surgical Oncology (BREAST CANCER) with Donna-Marie Manasseh
(Bonus: I bleeped any curse words so you can share this episode with your kids and your grandma.) Yes, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month but Dr. Donna-Marie Manasseh spends 12 months a year as a tumor hunter, saving lives. She is brilliant, uplifting, hilarious and a hero, quite honestly. She sat down in her Brooklyn office to talk about prevention, diagnosis, prognosis, when to get screened, what to do if you feel something weird, how to look forward to mammograms, how men can help family members stay informed, self-care and how she unwinds. Also: getting help with boob honkery, and rubbing rocks on your pits. This episode might be required listening for literally ... everyone. All the people. Dr. Donna-Marie Manasseh is the Chief of Breast Surgery at Maimonides Medical Center A few Breast Cancer Awareness resources: cancer.org , breastcancer.org , komen.org A portion of Patreon donations this month were donated to breast cancer research. More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Fri, October 05, 2018
Ologiesology with Alie Ward (1-Year Anniversary Episode)
Ever wanted to know how an episode of Ologies is made? Are you curious to learn about your host Alie Ward’s journey into science communication and beyond? If you need to know how Dad Ward does it all each week, this episode is for you. Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologies OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter or Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter or Instagram More links at www.alieward.com Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies
Tue, October 02, 2018
Functional Morphology (ANATOMY) with Joy Reidenberg
Ever poked at roadkill? Watched videos of whales exploding? Drooled over a curio cabinet full of claws & bones? Peered into a jar with a pickled toad? Then this one is for you. Arguably the world's most famous comparative anatomist (and pretty-much-also functional morphologist) Dr. Joy Reidenberg pulls up a chair at Mt. Sinai Hospital to talk about her fascinating backstory, exploding whales, taxidermied chipmunks, dead toadfish, animal's weird anatomy and its function and how it might help human health. She is absolutely amazing and you will become obsessed with her work. Dr. Joy Reidenberg on Twitter & Facebook More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, September 25, 2018
Myrmecology (ANTS) with Terry McGlynn
Cult-leader queens. Bullet ant stings. Kitchen pest hacks. The dynamics of a billion-sister megacolony. Dr. Terry McGlynn sits down to have a BIG discussion about itty-bitty creatures. Learn about tropical ants, urban ants, how they walk on water, which ones are picky eaters, which ones make weird sounds, what ant movies are bunk, and some self-help takeaways. Also: sniffing your relatives before deciding to kill them. Dr. Terry McGlynn's website and Twitter More episode sources and links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, September 18, 2018
Egyptology (ANCIENT EGYPT) with Kara Cooney
After a decade of fandom, Alie finally meets famed Egyptologist Dr. Kara Cooney -- and forgets her equipment. They meet again for a spirited history lesson on ancient Egypt: the pyramids, the monarchs, the dynasties, the cats, the corpses, the curses. Kara also lays out the history of female kings and their parallels to modern Western politics, what it's like to talk to a mummy, and why we should stop overworking. Also: lost dongs and transparent toilets. This episode is one for the ages. Dr. Kara Cooney's on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Order " When Women Ruled the World: Six Queens of Egypt ," released Nov. 6 2018 More episode sources and links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, September 11, 2018
Conservation Technology (EARTH SAVING) with Shah Selbe
THIS IS UPLIFTING, I PROMISE. And it might just make you switch careers. As a bookend to last week's Oceanology episode, Conservation Technologist Shah Selbe chats about saving the planet with some well-intentioned technology. Wind turbines, solar cars, and all the ways in which sensors, drones, recycled smartphones and real-time data reporting can help conserve species, spaces and communities that are threatened. Hear inspiring tales of travel, art, adventure and putting engineering to good use from a former rocket-science turned professional do-gooder. Also discussed: crocodile astrology, fishing vests and hippo power displays. Conservify.org Shah Selbe on Twitter and Instagram More episode sources and links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, September 04, 2018
Oceanology (OCEANS) with Ayana Johnson
Are plastic straws really that bad? What's the oldest message in a bottle? Any scuba vs. snorkel strategies? Does sunscreen kill coral? Can we reverse ocean warming in our lifetime? In a conversation with ocean and policy expert Dr. Ayana Johnson, Alie struggles with finding a balance between the wonders and the bummers. For the first 15-20 minutes, learn weird ocean trivia, why we love the sea, and facts about the ocean's depths and beauty. Then, we get to the sad stuff: ocean health, climate change, acidification, pollution, policy and what we can all do. If you've been feeling helpless, this episode gives you all the tools you need to understand and help our friend, the World Ocean. Also: some great information about whale pee. Dr. Johnson's OceanCollectiv.co Dr. Johnson's website , Twitter and Instagram More episode sources and links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, August 28, 2018
Ferroequinology (TRAINS) with Matt Anderson
Trains. Locomotives. Choochoos. Bullet trains. Hyperloops. Subways. How fast can they go? How did they change American history? Why do people love them? What should we do with all that abandoned track? Can you marry a train? What's it like to shovel coal into a steam engine? Alie went off the rails at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan talking to an official ferroequinologist and curator Matt Anderson -- who confessed to some youthful railroad mischief, delivered a succinct slice of U.S. History, has train movie recommendations and discussed cars vs. trains in the great transportation debate. Also, why transporting isn't always about the trains. The Henry Ford Museum Railroad Exhibit More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, August 21, 2018
Bonus Minisode: Kalology -- Your Letters
As a companion to Kalology (BEAUTY STANDARDS) Alie reads your thoughts about appearance and beauty culture in this, a bonus minisode. You wrote in about how make-up is a creative outlet, how beauty standards can be an oppressive time suck, about hairy pits and culture clashes, money burdens, appearances in different professions, trans and non-binary perspectives, and what you wish the next generation did differently. Y'all made Ol' Ward tear up more than once, and it's an honor to share your stories. Dr. Renee Engeln's work "Beauty Sick," the book Dr. Crystal Dilworth's TEDx Talk More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, August 21, 2018
Kalology (BEAUTY STANDARDS) with Renee Engeln
We love it. We hate it. BEAUTY CULTURE. Looking good can make us feel decorated, empowered and more confident -- but why? And why are certain groups subtly told to "make-up" for their appearance? What's the line between self-care and oppression? Psychologist and beauty-researcher Dr. Renee Engeln shines a huge bright floodlight on the sometimes ugly machinery of the billion-dollar beauty and "fitness" industry. This is an episode for make-up lovers, haters and the millions of us confused about being both at once. It's also an opportunity for dudes to learn just how how skewed the standards are. Buckle up -- this ologist will change the way you see the world, others and hopefully, yourself. Dr. Renee Engeln's work "Beauty Sick," the book More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, August 14, 2018
Oology (EGGS) with John Bates
The biggest eggs! The smallest eggs! The people arrested for stealing the most eggs! Oologist Dr. John Bates gave Alie a tour of the egg vault at the Field Museum of Chicago and it was a barrage of beautiful sights and shocking facts about bird butts. Get ready for speckly eggs, falcon tales, delicate treasures, pigeon mysteries, modern research with old artifacts, Easter bullshit, and whether or not you can hatch chickens from grocery store eggs. Also the carnival ride Alie will never ever ever go on. Field Museum of Chicago The Book of Eggs More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, August 07, 2018
Ophthalmology (EYES) with Reid Wainess
75% of adult Americans have wonky vision of some kind, your host included. Longtime pal and real-life eye surgeon, Dr. Reid Wainess answers all the questions that you never bring up during appointments. He and Alie chat about how eyes are just little cameras in your skull, glasses vs. contacts, Lasik, why we cry, some boggling ER stories, how marijuana effects eyeballs, floaters, cataracts, eye color, dogs in goggles and more. Also: what happens if you choke under pressure and pick the wrong options in an eye exam? HOW SCREWED ARE YOU? Dr. Reid Wainess's practice If you're in LA and and want Dr. Wainess to be your eye doc: 1-800-898-2020 More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, July 31, 2018
Epidemiology (DISEASES) with 'This Podcast Will Kill You's' Erins Welsh & Allmann-Updyke
TWO epidemiologists-named-Erin -- and hosts of the stellar This Podcast Will Kill You -- chat with Alie about historical horror stories, THE plague, cholera cocktails, flu shots, tick bombs, milkmaids, witch trials and more as they share their infectious enthusiasm for disease ecology. How much should you wash your hands? What's the best way to flirt with a stranger on a bus? Why are people scared of vaccines? What conspiracy theory enthralls Alie? So many questions with uncomfy, but fascinating, answers. Listen to This Podcast Will Kill You Follow TPWKY on Twitter More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, July 24, 2018
Selachimorphology (SHARKS) with Chris Lowe
SHAAAARKS. Leading shark researcher Dr. Chris Lowe dishes about bad shark PR, behind-the-scenes Jaws trivia, his thoughts on Sharknado , surfing safety, immune system marvels, cannibal twins, shark personalities, sea sex, and knife teeth. Alie learns that sharks are not the ocean's sociopaths but true evolutionary marvels who suffer from sensationalized reputations and sometimes inside-out butts. Listen up as a science primer during this, the holy Week of the Shark. (Note: the study of sharks can is also called elasmobranchology, a distinction which could also include skates and rays. Both -ologies are difficult to spell.) Dr. Lowe's Twitter and Facebook Dr. Chris Lowe's SharkLab at Cal State University Long Beach Track sharks and fish and turtles at Scattn.org More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, July 17, 2018
Malacology (SNAILS & SLUGS) with Jann Vendetti
Crazy dongs! Gardening tips! Snail-based beauty products! Weather the LA heatwave and slug along with Dr. Jann Vendetti of the Natural History Museum of LA County as she gossips with Alie about some sensual slug lovemaking, Gold Rush lore, urban snails, beer bingeing and why you should stop and high five (high one?) a gastropod for evolving into such an interesting critter. Also: should you adopt a rabbit-sized pet snail? Watch Dr. Vendetti on the The Curiosity Show S.L.I.M.E project at the NHM.org "The Snail Song" ending lullaby by Maple Leaf Learning More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, July 10, 2018
Areology (MARS) Part 2 with Jennifer Buz
Last week we got a big thicc primer on ol' Mars, that dusty desert doomsday cabin millions of miles away. This week, Alie continues the conversation with areologist Dr. Jennifer Buz and asks your Patreon questions about whether we could landscape Mars to look like a golf course, what a water balloon fight on Mars would be like, and if people in Jennifer's lab quote science fiction. Plus we hear directly from Kim Staney Robinson on the moral quandaries of inhabiting the red planet and explore the question: "Why is Elon Musk so horny for Mars?" You're going to want to look at Dr. Jennifer Buz's website JNNFR.BZ Follow Jennifer on Instagram More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, July 03, 2018
Areology (MARS) Part 1 with Jennifer Buz
The Red Planet. A mysterious dusty orb millions of miles away. Our emergency escape bunker. Alie sits down with Dr. Jennifer Buz to talk about what Mars’s DEEEEAL is, why we send rovers there, good science fiction, so-so science fiction, double egg yolks, the poetry of the moon Phobos and some of the best science dreams perhaps ever recorded. Jennifer is maybe the chillest areologist on this planet and an absolute gem. You're going to want to look at Dr. Jennifer Buz's website JNNFR.BZ Info on the 2020 rover workshop via JPL More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, June 26, 2018
MINISODE: Aestaology (SUMMER) should be a word
Melons. Fire. Waterfights. It's finally summer and Alie's into it. So with this solo mini-ep, learn about a few ologies that are not real but should be such as aestaology (summer) & hydropolemology (waterfights). Also discussed: a few ologies that are in fact real, like cucurbitology (melons), pyrotechnology (humans chillin' and grillin' around a fire) and lampyridology (fireflies.) Just a little buffet o' facts to get you excited about summer. More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, June 19, 2018
Deltiology (POSTCARDS) with Donna Braden
Why were postcards invented and why do they still exist? Why do we lie to people and say our lives are better than they are? Alie stopped into the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan and talked to curator of 40 years, Donna Braden, about her work with the postcard collections -- as well as her musings about how emotions impact memory, why Americans love to hit the open road and what the biggest postcard you're allowed to mail is. Listen while riding off into the sunset or sipping tea on a porch and then send someone you love a giant postcard because you can. The Henry Ford Museum Postcard Archive More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, June 12, 2018
Rhinology (NOSES) with John Craig
Allergies. Nose jobs. Smell nostalgia. Street drugs. Septum piercings. Snoring. Hang on to your faces because Dr. John Craig goes deep and shares why he's so passionate about rhinology. You'll have a whole new relationship with your whiffer, appreciating what happens behind your nas-holes and coming away with some strategies to combat hay fever, Afrin addiction plus: a very legal substitute for illegal party drugs. Also: why you may want to shove a crayon into your nose. Dr. John Craig's YouTube Channel Help send Aidan to camp via this t-shirt fundraiser More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, June 05, 2018
Phonology (LINGUISTICS) with Nicole Holliday
Vocal fry. Code switching. Black Twitter. Valley girls. Culture vultures. WE'RE TALKING ABOUT TALKING. Alie battles traffic to sit down with linguistics professor Dr. Nicole Holliday about intonational phonology: how tones and pitch help us bond with others and construct identities. Inspired in part by former President Barack Obama's masterful linguistic variability, Dr. Holliday's work focuses on how language is used in the crossing and construction of racial/ethnic boundaries. She graciously fielded tons of questions for a fascinating dive into the nuances and strict grammatical rules of African American Language, cultural appropriation, our educational system, honoring your identity, what not to wear in Paris and the roiling debate over who is the best rapper. Also: Alie is maybe a lizard person. Follow Dr. Nicole Holliday @MixedLinguist on Twitter and Instagram More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, May 29, 2018
Cynology (DOGS) with Brandon McMillan
Your best friend is a hairy beast and that's something to celebrate. This episode is a little different in tone and let's just say GOOD LUCK NOT CRYING, SUCKERS. Alie sits down with "Lucky Dog" host Brandon McMillan, who cares more about saving shelter mutts than he does about the 3 Daytime Emmys he's won for doing it. Learn about his Hollywood drama-worthy backstory that led to being one of the world's most celebrated dog trainers, plus how to calm anxious pups, breeders vs. shelter rescues, and how and why dogs help our brains and save our lives. Dogs 4 president 2020. Brandon's website Follow Brandon on Instagram and Twitter Brandon's non-profit to provide service dogs to veterans is called ARGUS . I said Angus; how embarrassing. More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, May 22, 2018
Lepidopterology (BUTTERFLIES) with Phil Torres
Butterflies are gross. Yes they are delightful and beautiful and part of any idyllic picnic-scape but lepidopterologist, TV host and jungle explorer Phil Torres is here to gossip about how shamelessly disgusting our favorite bugs actually are. Learn their secrets, their mating habits, how they turn themselves into goo and then into another creature, what moth os the most goth, what flowers to plant to attract them, the scariest thing about the jungle and what it feels like to help discover new species. Also butterflies get sloppy drunk and we talk all about it. Phil-Torres.com Follow Phil on Twitter and Instagram Follow Phil's inspiration, @AndyBugGuy , on Twitter Xerces.org has resources on native plants More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, May 15, 2018
Trichology (HAIR) with Valerie Horsley
Peach fuzz. Chin hairs. Mammalian ponytails. WHY DO THEY HAPPEN. Yale researcher and associate professor Dr. Valerie Horsley stops by California to chat with Alie about the nature of hair and why it grows in the wrong places, the causes and remedies for hair loss, the grossest museum ever, and why we love and hate and need our hair as animals. Also: Dr. Horsely's decision to run for office and Alie's disgusting confessions, per usual. Dr. Valerie Horsely is on Facebook and Twitter The Horsely Lab at Yale Action Together Connecticut More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, May 08, 2018
Dendrology (TREES) with J. Casey Clapp
Do trees have feelings? How do they talk? How old can they get? Are there any tree stories that will make me cry? Spoiler: YES. Possibly the world's most enthusiastic tree expert, J. Casey Clapp, shows Alie his many tree tattoos, explains how roots communicate to each other, addresses "crown shyness" and schools Alie on the mental health benefits of tree proximity. Also: banana facts and Casey f*cking hates apples. Follow Casey Clapp on Instagram More episode sources & links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, May 01, 2018
Fearology Pt. 2 (FEAR) with Mary Poffenroth
FEAR. Anxiety. Stress. Dread. It's all the same dang thing, as it turns out. Biologist and fear expert Mary Poffenroth is back for Part 2 of what has been one of the most helpful interviews of ol' Alie Ward's life. Learn how super successful people approach fear, Mary’s scariest hour, plus answers to all of your questions about night terrors, self-spookery, sharks' bad PR image to how likely it is that a snake will bite your butt. Plus: the best thing about following your passions in life. If this episode helped you at all, consider telling friends about it so we can all get over being chicken sh*ts and, as Mary would say "die with great stories." For more info on Mary Poffenroth, see her website , Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, April 24, 2018
Fearology Pt. 1 (FEAR) with Mary Poffenroth
Every day, your brain tries to save your life by being terrified. Thanks, brain! Also, calm the f*ck down, brain. Alie hunted down Mary Poffenroth, an expert in the biological and sociological causes/effects of fear and it is riveting. This real life FEAROLOGIST (which is a real word) talks about how fear is literally killing you, the difference between stress and fear, how to get along with your co-workers, friends, or partner better, and how to talk to your brain when it has needlessly pulled the fire alarm. Part 1 of a 2-part series that will honestly change your life. For more info on Mary Poffenroth, see her website , Facebook , Twitter and Instagram More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, April 17, 2018
Radiology (X-RAY VISION) with Varshana Gurusamy
Hey, kiddo, it's what's INSIDE that matters -- like your guts and bones and squishy brain and intestines and stuff. Meet Dr. Varshana Gurusamy: diagnostic radiology resident, Texan and amazing person with great stories. You'll learn the difference between an MRI and an ultrasound, between a CT scan and a CAT scan and why you should not put big things in orifices that you might not be able to retrieve them unaided. You'll want to hug a radiologist ... as soon as they take their lead gonad shield off. More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, April 10, 2018
Evolutionary Biology (DARWINISM) with John McCormack
Celebrate your lucky mutations with an episode about natural selection, agonizing boat trips, redemption stories, olde timey inter-family marriages, how much money you can make playing videos games, finch beaks, whether or not cave men are kinda hot and how to live on a small island with your soulmate. Evolutionary biologist and the director of the Moore Lab of Zoology, John McCormack, chats about all things evolution and gives Alie a new appreciation for how genetic blips can be hidden strengths. Moore Lab of Zoology Follow John's work @MLZbirds on Twitter and Instagram More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, April 03, 2018
Gynecology (NETHER HEALTH) with Philippa Ribbink
Let's get intimate with the mechanics of nether parts via a frank chat with the calmest, coolest gyno in Portland, Dr. Philippa Ribbink. She visited Alie's weird hotel to chat about vaginas (vs. vulvas), self-care, mental health, imposter syndrome, trans care, childbirth, body image, the accuracy of assault statistics, grooming, hygiene and more. NO QUESTION WAS TOO DELICATE, FOLKS. Language alert: In considering the inclusion of trans women, I opted for the use of the term "women's health" and "women" -- as gynecology is currently (yet antiquatedly) defined. In so doing, I fucked up and overlooked and excluded non-binary and trans men friends in that language and I'm so so so sorry. Some amazing Ologites alerted me to this and I just want to say I'm so so sorry that the language I used (women/lady) made anyone feel unseen. So please know that trans inclusion was on my mind, but I'm super embarrassed to have missed the mark and overlooked the non-binary community and trans men community. I see you, I love you, and I care a bunch, and I will strive to do better when it comes to inclusionary language. Curiosity and compassion are so key to social health, and as you know I'm all about asking smart people dumb questions. So thank you for patience as we all learn new things and evolve into an even more inclusive, better-linguistically-equipped society. Please continue being patient and kind to each other and as always, keep your mind open to learning new things, whether it's about snake butts or bee dancing or the origins of the Universe or another person's perspective. Learning shit is cool. More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, March 27, 2018
Zymology (BEER) with Quinton Sturgeon
If you like booze, you'll love... fungus! Alie goes Rogue and takes a field trip to a brewery in Newport, OR where she smells vats of bubbling beer slop and learns about the microorganisms that are the workhorses of the brewing industry. Learn about yeasts, how beer is made, the hardest part about being a beer maker, the thick history of beer, some home brewing tips and also a nugget about bungholes. Let's get yeasty. Special thanks to Shannon Feltus and Boni Dutch for the hook-up and the road trip to the coast. More episode sources and links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, March 20, 2018
Melittology (BEES) with Amanda Shaw
BEES! Hives, honey, and how to keep them as outdoor pets. Meet melittologist and President of the Urban Beekeepers Association, Amanda Shaw. She and Alie cozy up in a weird hotel in Portland to chat about honeybees vs. native ones, how to become a beekeeper, social savagery that rivals Game of Thrones, if you should eat honey to deal with seasonal allergies, what happens in the drone zone (hint: boning) and how we can SAVE THESE FRIGGIN BEES. Also: what happens when 15,000 bees go through a carwash. For more on Amanda Shaw, see WaggleWorksPDX.com Portland Urban Beekeepers More episode sources and links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, March 13, 2018
Museology (MUSEUMS) with Ronnie Cline
Museums! Mummies! Paintings! Hot dogs! Alie sits down with her dear internet friend and museologist Ronnie Cline, who manages 30,000 artifacts over 22 California State Park Museums. Get the hot gossip about behind-the-scenes museum life, vintage ghosts, following your dreams, changing the tone of history and the time Alie ruined a 16th Century Dutch portrait. Also: why Jack London is your new dead celebrity crush. Follow @MuseumRonnie on Instagram More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, March 06, 2018
Gizmology (ROBOTS) with Simone Giertz
YouTube's Sh*tty Robots machine-maker, very funny human being, professional tinkerer and potential astronaut Simone Giertz hops in Alie's car to hang out in a sketchy Hollywood alley and chat. Topics covered: the definition of a robot, artificial intelligence, the gateway to her thirst for engineering power, plastic animals, and topless grandmas. Watch Simone's videos on YouTube Follow Simone on Twitter More episode sources and links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, February 27, 2018
Mythology (STORYTELLING) with John Bucher
Superhero movies. Bastardized fairy tales. The psychology of celebrity. Star Wars. And yes, some ancient Greek and Roman myths. Professional mythologist and screenwriting consultant John Bucher spins some yarns and unravels some mysteries behind what makes a good story, and why we so desperately need them. Also: rethinking your own life's narrative and gaining a greater appreciation for Elvira. Trust me. John Bucher's website and Twitter More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, February 20, 2018
Teuthology (SQUIDS) with Sarah McAnulty
Squids. Cuttlefish. Octopusseseses. The world's most impassioned squid nerd, Sarah McAnulty, gets locked in a basement with Alie to talk about cephalopods, alien DNA, camouflage, invisibility cloaks, why cute things make us insane, terrible mating strategies, cute and clever ones and why she is so charmed by squid. Also addressed: Philly accents and the Kraken. Follow @SarahMackAttack on Twitter or Instagram Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, February 13, 2018
Sexology (SEX) with Shan Boody aka Shannon Boodram
Sex. Sex. Sex. Sex. Also sex. Buckle up, Ologites, because clinical sexologist and author Shannon Boodram (known for her sex educational YouTube channel ShanBoody) chats with Alie about sexual identity, how a friggin' vagina works, how to get over slumps, love languages, monogamy vs. open relationships, dating in the wake of #metoo, some fun with prostate orgasms, foot fetishes and why relationships can be like pizza. Then at the very very end Alie talks about the weirdest sex dream she's ever had SORRY. Shanboody on Twitter and Instagram Shan's YouTube channel More episode sources and links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, February 06, 2018
Gelotology (LAUGHTER) with Lee Berk
The. Study. Of. Laughter. It exists, and it's called gelotology. In one of the oddly more somber episodes, Alie sits down with Dr. Lee Berk, a doctor who is "serious about laughter" and has dedicated decades to hunting down how humor affects the body. Learn about what makes a joke a joke, the science behind happiness, why you laugh when you're nervous, if comedians are naturally depressed or if that's a myth, and why some people get paid to tickle rats. Gelotology is an actual science and as Alie learns, it really is no laughing matter. Dr. Lee Berk’s website More episode sources and links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, January 30, 2018
Ichthyology (FISHES) with Chris Thacker
ALL. ABOUT. FISH. Hilariously charming fish expert and LA County Natural History Museum Curator of Ichthyology, Dr. Christine Thacker, sits down with Alie in a basement full of several million jars of fish to chat about the worst fish husbands, the weirdest mating behaviors, the scariest fish, the nicest fish, the tiniest fish, how they breathe, how you can help reverse global warming, and whether you should pee in wetsuits. I love her so much and so will you. Follow Dr. Chris Thacker on Instagram More episode sources and links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Editing by Steven Ray Morris Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, January 23, 2018
Herpetology (SNAKES, FROGS, ETC.) with David Steen
Sea turtles, frog storms, Indiana Jones trivia, the triumph of will that was Snakes on a Plane, plus dissembling your anti-sneck feelings with Dr. David Steen. Learn more about what makes a herp a herp, the unfortunate etymology behind the ology, and why you'll be a rebel by loving snakes. A great episode for those who want to conquer their fears with science and logic, and also who grew up romping around and turning over logs. Visit davidasteen.com and alongsidewildlifefoundation.org Follow Dr. Steen on Twitter More episode sources and links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, January 16, 2018
Sports & Performance Psychology (ANXIETY & CONFIDENCE) with Sari Shepphird
Sweaty palms before a date. Racing heart during a presentation. Needing a diaper while delivering a wedding toast. We've all been there. On the heels of New Year's resolutions, sports & performance psychologist Dr. Sari Shepphird explains confidence vs. performance anxiety, the origins of perfectionism, how much social media is too much, self-sabotoage and also dishes on strategies that athletes use to perform under pressure. Also: why you should holler the F word when you're nervous, why being authentic is always the best policy and the perils of professional darts. Dr. Shepphird is at sportandperform.com Follow Dr. Sari Shepp on Twitter Links to things we discussed Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, January 09, 2018
Hematology (BLOOD) with Brian Durie
Bloooood. In this special episode, Alie sits down with Scotsman and hematologist Dr. Brian Durie to talk about blood: what it is, and what can go wrong. As an oncologist, Dr. Durie is a leading researcher in multiple myeloma, a disease that's deeply affected Alie's family. So learn about what's in your blood and how doctors are finding new cures and therapies for the people diagnosed with blood cancers. Also learn about the most scientifically chill way to live your life, what foods to avoid, whether or not Coachella is too crowded and some handy fish slang. Visit myeloma.org More episode sources and links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Wed, January 03, 2018
Glycobiology (CARBS) with Michelle Dookwah
Carbohydrates: no longer just for your piehole. Stuff some knowledge into your ears with sugar scientist Michelle Dookwah and learn how your cells use carbs to communicate, the whys behind your winter cravings, the hot goss on the keto diet, and how much sugar you should really be eating. Also: B-movies about biology and the weirdest thing Alie ate today. Follow Michelle Dookwah on Twitter or Instagram More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, December 19, 2017
Cosmology PART 2 with Katie Mack
Listener questions! The universe, dimensions, asteroid bags and cosmic vertigo with the amazing Dr. Katie Mack. Part 1 was a primer on all things cosmological, from particle physics to black holes, so listen to that first then hop to this episode to get all your questions answered. Follow Katie Mack on Instagram and Twitter More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, December 12, 2017
Cosmology (THE UNIVERSE) with Katie Mack, Part I
Stars. Black holes. THE GAWDANG UNIVERSE. Astrophysicist and cosmologist Katie Mack (@astrokatie) joins to tell us her most embarrassing moments as a cosmologist, to debunk some physicist myths and give the nuts + bolts of everything form particle physics to gravitational waves and existential mysteries. Walk away with cocktail party comprehension of everything from the itty-bitty quarks that make you to the neutron stars banging together across the cosmos. More than anything, get perspective about your life on this, our little pale blue dot. Follow Katie Mack on Instagram and Twitter More episode sources & links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, December 05, 2017
Entomology (INSECTS) with Lila Higgins
Buuuugs. We cover perhaps Alie's favorite ology ever with an ologist who changed her life. Meet Lila Higgins: the self-professed "bug geek" with passion more infectious than a glassy winged sharpshooter mouth. (That will make sense later.) We talk about clowns in the forest, badgers, Hare Krishnas, solitary bugs vs. social ones, why wasps are such dicks and why it's totally fine to kiss a cockroach and eat a cricket. See Lila's TEDX Talk Follow Lila on Instagram More episode sources and links Support Ologies on Patreon for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Theme song by Nick Thorburn Production help by Jason Scardamalia
Wed, November 22, 2017
Minisode: Grateful-ology is not a real word...
As a friend of a friend's hairdresser once said: "it's hard to be hateful with a plateful of grateful." Is it? In this pre-holidays quickie episode, Alie is grumpy as hell and decides to research the neuroscience of gratitude. Does it work? Who's studying it? Does she need to buy a journal? Find out how jotting down things you don't hate on the back of a receipt or opening a secret Twitter account may be worth more than whatever you get in your office Secret Santa exchange. Support the show on Patreon
Tue, November 14, 2017
Cosmetology (GLAM/GROOMING) with Alysha Sherri Marcantonio
Skin care! Beard care! History! Grooming! Men's concealer! Make-up! And most importantly: what is self-confidence and where does it come from? The incredibly charming Alysha Marcantonio has been Alie's make-up artist for years and stepped in the booth to dish about HOW IN THE HECKERS she always has perfect skin (Alysha, not Alie), what it's like to hear all the gossip on set, creature prosthetics vs. glam squad and why beauty truly does come from the inside. Emotionally and from a molecular level. Follow Alysha on Instagram More episode sources and links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, November 07, 2017
Ornithology (BIRDS) with James Maley
Birds! Horned screamers! Winged pirates! Professional bird-person and all around cool dude James Maley joins Alie to talk about bird mating, monogamy, the cult of ornithology, absurd birds, parrots that are smarter than your friends' kids, a surprising fact about owl ears and history's most tragically zealous bird nerds. If you love birds, you'll be at home. If a bird did you dirty, you'll open your heart and learn to love again. Follow Moore Lab of Zoology on Instagram More episode resources and links Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes! Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Tue, October 31, 2017
Thanatology (DEATH & DYING) with Cole Imperi
Hoooo boy. We're all up in death and dying's bizness and to Alie's shock, it's not a bummer. Confront and perhaps OVERCOME existential anxiety as we discuss not only the science of death but the nature and goddamn beauty of life. Everything from burial methods, the latest in eco funerals, what a funeral director hates most, how gnomes die, and how to regret less. Meet your new favorite thanatologist and oddly, get the guts to be the you you want to be. For more on Cole Imperi More episode resources & links Tees, mugs, totes available at ologiesmerch.com Follow @ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow @alieward on Twitter and Instagram Support the show on Patreon Music by Nick Thorburn Production by Steven Ray Morris
Tue, October 24, 2017
Minisode: Fall Ologies! ... Fallogies?
It's hot and Alie is nostalgic for fall. So here's a mini episode on the world's best autumn ologies to cozy up your week. Considerate blood bats, pumpkin hacks, leaf phenology, and ... Real. Life. Zombies More episode info and links Follow Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Shirts, tees, more at OlogiesMerch.com Music by Nick Thorburn Support the show on Patreon
Wed, October 18, 2017
Horology (WATCHES) with Cameron Weiss
Million-dollar watches, World War II's role in watchmaking, and how much caffeine a watchmaker drinks. Twenty-something horologist Cameron Weiss also dishes about mechanical vs. quartz, little tiny springs, patience, S-Town and the history of timekeeping. Also we address rap lyrics and some existential boolsheet. More info on Cameron's watches More episode sources and links Support the show on Patreon T-shirts, mugs, etc. at ologiesmerch.com Follow Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Music by Nick Thorburn
Tue, October 10, 2017
Gemology (CRYSTALS & GEMS) with Kelly Sitek
Professional gemologist Kelly Sitek talks about adventures in mining, the chemical composition of different gems, breaks down the test taking process for gemology and gives advice on haunted stones. We also spill some tea on cultured pearls and address the psychology and neurological merits of crystals/the placebo effect. Whether you are a staunch skeptic or all about woo-woo, you may end up shoving a crystal down your pants just for good luck. A.k.a. neural top-down control of physiology. Follow Kelly Sitek on Instagram More episode links and info Follow Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Shirts, mugs, etc. OlogiesMerch.com Support the show on Patreon
Wed, October 04, 2017
Paleontology (DINOSAURS) with Michael Habib
Did Ross Gellar ruin being a paleontologist? What's the hot goss on dino feathers? How did some dinos have four wings and which costs more: a used sedan or a dinosaur? Featuring guest Michael Habib of the Natural History Museum of LA County. Also covered: why Alie used to feel meh about dinos (DON'T JUDGE) and the realities of cloning. Oh and penis implants. Tees, mugs, totes available at ologiesmerch.com Follow Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Follow Alie on Twitter and Instagram Support the show on Patreon Music by Nick Thorburn Editing/production by Jason Scardamalia
Tue, September 26, 2017
Primatology (MONKEYS & APES) with Kate Gilmore
Settle in with Alie Ward and guest Kate Gilmore, a professional primatologist and lead keeper of the great apes and Old World monkeys at the Los Angeles Zoo. Learn about chimpanzee mating, why zookeepers don't wear FitBits, primate DRAAAMA, the erroneous philosophy behind truck nuts and what happens in the middle the night at the zoo. Also get some good info on primate conservation and how to be a friend to orangutans. More info including links on ape conservation Become a patron on Patreon Shirts now available at OlogiesMerch.com Follow Ologies on Twitter and Instagram Music by Nick Thorburn Mixing and final production by Jason Scardamalia
Tue, September 19, 2017
Volcanology (VOLCANOES) with Jess Phoenix
In this first episode of Ologies, Alie Ward chats with volcanologist Jess Phoenix who also happens to be running for Congress. Learn how hot magma is, how volcanoes are formed, how screwed the Pacific Northwest is, what thrills Jess about volcanoes, and what to do if surrounded by horse bandits. Also: some valuable information about haunted lava tubes. Follow Ologies on Instagram and Twitter Follow Jess Phoenix on Twitter More episode info and links Support the show on Patreon Music by Nick Thorburn Production by Jason Scardamalia and Steven Ray Morris
Mon, September 04, 2017
Episode 0
Comedy podcaster and science correspondent Alie Ward asks smart people dumb questions to learn about their professional obsessions. Music: Nick Thorburn Production: Jason Scardamalia, Dustin Marshall, Steven Ray Morris Follow @ologies on Instagram and Twitter Support the show on Patreon
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