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    Ologies with Alie Ward – 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.

    Advertise

    Copyright: © 2021 Alie Ward

    • Apple Podcasts
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    Latest Episodes:
    Field Trip: A Hollywood Visit to the Writers Guild Strike Line May 26, 2023

    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 / Instagram / Twitter

    Elle Lipson - IMDB / website / Twitter

    Annie Mebane - IMDB / Twitter

    Sam Laybourne - IMDB

    And choreographer Kathryn Burns - IMDB

    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


    Acaropathology (TICKS & LYME DISEASE) Updated Mega Encore with Neeta Pardanani Connally & Andrea Swei May 17, 2023

    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)

    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 Steven Ray Morris, 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


    Invisible Photology (INVISIBILITY CLOAKS) with Greg Gbur May 10, 2023

    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

    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


    Stem Cell Biology (CELLS MAKING CELLS) with “Science Sam” aka Samantha Yammine May 03, 2023

    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 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


    Smologies #22: REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS with David Steen May 01, 2023

    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

    More kid-friendly Smologies episodes! Including Toads and Body Heat!

    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


    Delphinology Part 2 (DOLPHINS) with Justin Gregg Apr 26, 2023

    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

    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


    Delphinology Part 1 (DOLPHINS) with Justin Gregg Apr 19, 2023

    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 (VOICEBOXES)

    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


    Field Trip: My Butt, a Colonoscopy Ride Along & How-To Apr 13, 2023

    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


    Chickenology Part 2 (HENS & ROOSTERS) with Tove Danovich Apr 05, 2023

    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

    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


    Chickenology Part 1 (HENS & ROOSTERS) with Tove Danovich Mar 29, 2023

    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

    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


    Smologies #21: SLEEP with Chris Winter Mar 28, 2023

    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

    More kid-friendly Smologies episodes!

    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


    Domicology (ABANDONED BUILDINGS, RECYCLED HOUSES & GHOST TOWNS) with Rex LaMore Mar 23, 2023

    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 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


    Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS) Encore + 2023 Updates with Katherine Hatcher Mar 14, 2023

    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


    Smologies #20: FISHES with Chris Thacker Mar 14, 2023

    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

    Wondercon: Friday March 24, 6pm panel

    More Smologies episodes!

    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


    Detroitology (DETROIT) with Aaron Foley Mar 08, 2023

    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), Meteorology (WEATHER & CLIMATE), Melaninology (SKIN/HAIR PIGMENT), Futurology (THE FUTURE)

    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


    Field Trip: An Airport Full of Neuroscientists Mar 02, 2023

    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

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    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


    Environmental Toxicology (POISONS + TRAIN DERAILMENT) with Kimberly K. Garrett Feb 22, 2023

    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

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    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


    Melaninology (SKIN/HAIR PIGMENT) with Tina Lasisi Feb 16, 2023

    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)

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    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


    Scotohylology (DARK MATTER) with Flip Tanedo Feb 08, 2023

    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

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    Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month

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    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


    Laryngology Part 2 (VOICE BOXES) with Ronda Alexander Feb 01, 2023

    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

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    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 Jason Scardamalia


    Laryngology Part 1 (VOICE BOXES) Ronda Alexander Jan 25, 2023

    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 Jason Scardamalia


    Aperiology (MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY) Encore with Joseph Saunders Jan 18, 2023

    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

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    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


    Oneirology Part 2 (DREAMS) with G. William Domhoff Jan 11, 2023

    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

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    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


    Oneirology Part 1 (DREAMS) with G. William Domhoff Jan 04, 2023

    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

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    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


    Bonus Episode: Secrets, Advice + Ask-Me-Anything Dec 31, 2022

    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

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    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


    Smologies #19: EVOLUTION with John McCormack Dec 29, 2022

    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

    More Smologies episodes!

    Other full-length episodes you may enjoy: Condorology (CONDORS), Primatology (MONKEYS & APES), Gorillaology (GORILLAS), Ornithology (BIRDS)

    Sponsors of Ologies

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    OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!

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    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


    P-22: The Life & Death of an L.A. Cougar with Miguel Ordeñana & Beth Pratt Dec 23, 2022

    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)

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    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


    Meteorology (WEATHER & CLIMATE) with Marshall Shepherd Dec 14, 2022

    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

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    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 Kelly R. Dwyer

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn


    Enigmatology (WORD PUZZLES) with David Kwong Dec 06, 2022

    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)

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    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


    Special Ep: Mycology (MUSHROOMS) Tom Volk Memorial Encore Dec 01, 2022

    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

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    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


    Indigenous Pedology (SOIL SCIENCE) with Lydia Jennings Nov 23, 2022

    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)

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    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 & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn


    Smologies #18: FEASTS with Katherine Spiers Nov 22, 2022

    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!

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    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


    Bryology (MOSS) Encore with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer Nov 15, 2022

    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 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


    Discard Anthropology (GARBAGE) with Robin Nagle Nov 09, 2022

    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

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    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


    Smologies #17: FLAGS with E. Tory Laitila Nov 08, 2022

    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

    More Smologies episodes!

    Full length Vexillology (FLAGS) episode + links here

    Sponsors of Ologies

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    OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!

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    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


    Vampirology (VAMPIRES) Part 2 with Jeff Holdeman Oct 31, 2022

    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

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    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

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    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


    Vampirology (VAMPIRES) Part 1 with Jeff Holdeman Oct 26, 2022

    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

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    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


    Smologies #16: INSECTS with Lila Higgins Oct 24, 2022

    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

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    OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!

    Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram

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    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


    Metropolitan Tombology (PARIS CATACOMBS) with Erin-Marie Legacey Oct 20, 2022

    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

    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


    FIELD TRIP: I Go France and Learn Weird French Stuff Oct 15, 2022

    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

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    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

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    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


    5th Anniversary Special! Xylology (LUMBER) with Jeff Perry Oct 04, 2022

    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

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    Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month

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    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


    Geology (ROCKS) Part 2 with Schmitty Thompson Sep 21, 2022

    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

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    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


    Smologies #15: FAMILY TREES with Stephen Hanks Sep 21, 2022

    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

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    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


    Geology (ROCKS) Part 1 with Schmitty Thompson Sep 14, 2022

    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


    Oreamnology (MOUNTAIN GOATS ARE NOT GOATS) with Julie Cunningham Sep 08, 2022

    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.

    Julie 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

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    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


    Diplopodology (MILLIPEDES & CENTIPEDES) with Dr. Derek Hennen Aug 31, 2022

    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

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    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


    Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT) with Suzanne Pierre Aug 23, 2022

    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

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    OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!

    Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram

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    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


    Thanatology — NEW Interview (GRIEF & MOURNING) with Cole Imperi + tips for Going Through It Aug 16, 2022

    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 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


    Thanatology (DEATH & DYING) Updated Encore with Cole Imperi Aug 10, 2022

    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

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    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


    Cheloniology (SEA TURTLES) Encore with Camryn Allen Aug 02, 2022

    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


    Testudinology (TORTOISES) Encore with Amanda Hipps Jul 26, 2022

    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

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    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


    Zymology (BEER) Encore with Quinton Sturgeon Jul 21, 2022

    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

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    Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram

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    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


    Personality Psychology (PERSONALITIES) Encore with Simine Vazire Jul 13, 2022

    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


    Smologies #14: ALIENS with Kevin Peter Hand Jul 13, 2022

    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


    Lutrinology (OTTERS) with Chris J. Law Jul 07, 2022

    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


    SUMMERSODE: Balmy Vibes & Seasonal Factoids with various Ologists Jun 29, 2022

    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


    Smologies #13: CORALS with Shayle Matsuda Jun 22, 2022

    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


    Dipterology (FLIES) with Bryan Lessard Jun 14, 2022

    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 @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


    Gorillaology (GORILLAS) with Tara Stoinski Jun 09, 2022

    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 Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn


    Somnology (SLEEP) Part Two Encore with Dr. W. Chris Winter Jun 02, 2022

    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


    Smologies #12: EATING BUGS with Julie Lesnik Jun 01, 2022

    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


    Somnology (SLEEP) Part One Encore with Dr. W. Chris Winter May 26, 2022

    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


    Conotoxinology (CONE SNAIL VENOM) with Joshua Torres & Sabah Ul-Hasan May 18, 2022

    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


    Urology (CROTCH PARTS) with Fenwa Milhouse May 12, 2022

    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


    Acoustic Ecology (NATURE RECORDINGS) with Eddie Game May 05, 2022

    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


    Classical Archaeology (ANCIENT ROME) Encore with Darius Arya Apr 28, 2022

    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


    Teuthology (SQUIDS) Encore with Dr. Sarah McAnulty Apr 21, 2022

    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


    Environmental Microbiology (TESTING WASTEWATER FOR DISEASES) with Amy Kirby Apr 13, 2022

    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 MindJam Media

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn


    Echinology (SEA URCHINS & SAND DOLLARS) with Rich Mooi Apr 05, 2022

    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. And bonus at the very very end: a chat about the practicalities of owning an electric vehicle with a few sci-comm up-and-comers.

    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


    Carnivorous Phytobiology (MEAT-EATING PLANTS) with Hali’a Eastburn Mar 30, 2022

    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


    LIFE ADVICE: For anyone who is tired & needs some hacks Mar 22, 2022

    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


    Smologies #11: SNAILS & SLUGS with Jann Vendetti Mar 16, 2022

    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


    Ferroequinology (TRAINS) Encore with Matt Anderson Mar 09, 2022

    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


    Part 2: Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) with How to ADHD, Black Girl Lost Keys, Jahla Osborne + more Mar 03, 2022

    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

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    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


    Part 1: Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD) with Russell Barkley Feb 23, 2022

    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

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    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


    Cycadology (RARE PLANT DRAMA) with Nathalie Nagalingum Feb 16, 2022

    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

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    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


    Carnivore Ecology (LIONS, TIGERS, & BEARS) with Rae Wynn-Grant Feb 09, 2022

    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

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    OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!

    Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram

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    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


    Myrmecology (ANTS) Encore with Dr. Terry McGlynn Feb 01, 2022

    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

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    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


    Smologies #10: BODY HEAT with Shane Campbell-Staton Feb 01, 2022

    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

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    OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!

    Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram

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    Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media

    Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm


    Indigenous Cuisinology (NATIVE COOKING) with Mariah Gladstone of Indigikitchen Jan 26, 2022

    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

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    OlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!

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    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


    Screamology (LOUD VOCALIZATIONS) with Harold Gouzoules Jan 20, 2022

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media


    Bovine Neuropathology (HEADBUTTING) with Nicole Ackermans Jan 13, 2022

    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

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    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


    Smologies #9: GAMING with Jane McGonigal Jan 11, 2022

    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


    Neuropathology (CONCUSSIONS) with Mary Alexis Iaccarino Jan 05, 2022

    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

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    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


    Raccoonology (PROCYONIDS) with A Gaze of Raccoonologists Dec 29, 2021

    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

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    Become a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer


    Procyonology (RACCOONS) with Suzanne MacDonald Dec 22, 2021

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer


    Smologies #8: HAGFISH with Tim Winegard Dec 21, 2021

    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

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    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

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    Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris

    Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm


    Genicular Traumatology (BAD KNEES) with Kevin Stone Dec 16, 2021

    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

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    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


    Audiobook Mixtape 2: Gift Ideas from the Ologists’ Brains Dec 10, 2021

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer


    Smologies #7: CATS with Mikel Delgado Dec 07, 2021

    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

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    Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris

    Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm


    Forensic Ecology (NATURE DETECTIVE) with Tiara Moore Nov 30, 2021

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer


    Booster Coronasode: Shots & Holidays with Vaccine Infodemiologist Jessica Malaty Rivera Nov 24, 2021

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer


    Smologies #6: WOLVES with Bridgett vonHoldt Nov 22, 2021

    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

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    Sound editing by Zeke Thomas Rodrigues & Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media and Steven Ray Morris

    Smologies theme song by Harold Malcolm


    Tiktokology (THE TIKTOK APP) with Hank Green Nov 17, 2021

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer


    Dolorology (PAIN) with Rachel Zoffness Nov 10, 2021

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer


    Teuthological Ludology (ACTUAL SQUID GAMES, NOT THE TV SHOW) with Sarah McAnulty Nov 03, 2021

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Transcripts by Emily White of The Wordary

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer


    Smologies #5: VETERINARY BIOLOGY with Vernard Hodges & Terrence Ferguson Nov 01, 2021

    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 Malcolm


    Taphology (GRAVESITES) with Robyn S. Lacy Oct 27, 2021

    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/


    Kinetic Salticidology (DANCING SPIDERS) with Sebastian Echeverri Oct 20, 2021

    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/


    Chiropterology Part 2 (BATS) Encore with Merlin Tuttle Oct 12, 2021

    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


    Chiropterology (BATS) Encore with Merlin Tuttle Oct 12, 2021

    “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


    Corvid Thanatology (CROW FUNERALS) Encore with Kaeli Swift Oct 05, 2021

    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


    Pyrotechnology (FIREMAKING) with Ellery Frahm Sep 28, 2021

    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 at https://twitter.com/elleryfrahm

    https://www.elleryfrahm.com/

    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


    Opossumology (O/POSSUMS) with Lisa Walsh Sep 21, 2021

    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


    Ciderology (DELICIOUS APPLE BEVERAGE) with Gabe Cook Sep 15, 2021

    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


    Eudemonology (HAPPINESS) with Laurie Santos Sep 08, 2021

    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


    Spesh Ep: Drawdown Design Project with C. Andrew Hall Sep 01, 2021

    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 the Drawdown Design Project: an illustration non-profit started by filmmaker, Emmy-nominated television editor and longtime friend Andy Hall. 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 Drawdown Design Project 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

    Website by Kelly R. Dwyer


    Is Your Carbon Footprint BS?: How to Save a Planet takes over Ologies Aug 24, 2021

    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


    Smologies #4: BEES with Amanda Shaw Aug 23, 2021

    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


    Indigenous Fire Ecology (GOOD FIRE) with Amy Christianson Aug 17, 2021

    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


    Fire Ecology (WILDFIRES) with Gavin Jones Aug 10, 2021

    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


    Smologies #3: TOADS with Priya Nanjappa Aug 05, 2021

    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 or 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


    Systems Biology (MEDICAL MATHEMATICS) with Emily E. Ackerman Aug 03, 2021

    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


    Lampyridology (FIREFLIES) aka Sparklebuttology with Sara Lewis Jul 27, 2021

    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


    Smologies #2: DINOSAURS with Paleontologist Michael Habib Jul 20, 2021

    Yes, a double dose of short, all-ages episodes to launch Smologies! 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


    Smologies #1: THE MOON with Selenologist Raquel Nuno Jul 20, 2021

    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

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    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


    Elasmobranchology (MORE NEW SHARK STORIES) with MISS_Elasmo Shark Scientists Jul 16, 2021

    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


    Selachimorphology (SHARKS) Encore with Chris Lowe Jul 13, 2021

    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


    Matrimoniology (MARRIAGE) Encore with Ben Karney Jul 06, 2021

    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


    UFOlogy (UNEXPLAINED AERIAL PHENOMENA) with Sarah Scoles and Kate Dorsch Jun 29, 2021

    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


    Spheksology (WASPS) with Eric Eaton Jun 22, 2021

    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


    Quarantinology (UM, WHAT HAPPENS NOW?) with Various Ologists Jun 15, 2021

    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 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


    Wildlife Ecology (FIELDWORK) with Corina Newsome Jun 08, 2021

    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


    Phallology (PENISES) with Emily Willingham Jun 01, 2021

    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


    Pinnipedology (SEALS & WALRUSES) with Luis A. Hückstädt May 25, 2021

    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


    Bonus Feed Drop: Implicit Bias on the REAL GOOD podcast May 22, 2021

    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


    Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) with @BlackForager, Alexis Nikole Nelson May 18, 2021

    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


    Biomineralogy (SHELLS) with Robert Ulrich May 12, 2021

    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


    Speech Language Pathology (TALKING DOGS... AND PEOPLE) with Christina Hunger May 04, 2021

    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


    Maritime Archaeology (SHIPWRECKS) with Chanelle Zaphiropoulos Apr 27, 2021

    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


    Proptology (THEATER & FILM PROPS) with Jay Duckworth Apr 21, 2021

    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 Instagram 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


    Ursinology Part 2 (BEARS) with Thea Bechshoft, Lana Ciarniello, Drew Hamilton, Wes Larson, Tsalani Lassiter & Danielle Rivet Apr 14, 2021

    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 Instagram 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


    Ursinology (BEARS) with Chris Morgan Apr 07, 2021

    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 Instagram or Twitter

    Follow Alie Ward on Instagram or Twitter.com

    Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris & Jarrett Sleeper

    Music by Nick Thorburn


    Oology (EGGS) Encore + Bonus Material with John Bates Mar 30, 2021

    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 Instagram 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


    Fanthropology Pt. 2 (FANDOM) with Meredith Levine Mar 23, 2021

    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


    Fanthropology (FANDOM) with Meredith Levine Mar 16, 2021

    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


    Nephrology (KIDNEYS) with Samira Farouk Mar 09, 2021

    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

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    Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies

    Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies


    Cicadology (CICADAS) with Gene Kritsky Mar 03, 2021

    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

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    Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologies

    Follow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWard

    Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies


    Gluteology (BUTTS) with Natalia Reagan Feb 23, 2021

    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


    Molecular Biology (PROTEINS + SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) with Raven “The Science Maven” Baxter Feb 16, 2021

    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


    Carobology (NOT-CHOCOLATE TREES) with Megan Lynch Feb 10, 2021

    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


    Economic Sociology Pt. 2 (MONEY/FREAKONOMICS) with Steven Levitt and Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman Feb 02, 2021

    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


    Economic Sociology Pt. 1 (MONEY/FREAKONOMICS) with Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman and Steven Levitt Jan 26, 2021

    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


    Bilharziology (BLOOD FLUKES) with Anouk N. Gouvras Jan 19, 2021

    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

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    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


    Urban Rodentology (SEWER RATS) with Bobby Corrigan Jan 12, 2021

    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

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    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


    Vaccine Infodemiology (COVID-19 IMMUNITY) with Jessica Malaty Rivera Jan 05, 2021

    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


    Part 2: Dendrology (TREES) with Casey Clapp -- UPDATES + NEW INTERVIEW Dec 29, 2020

    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


    Part 1: Dendrology (TREES) with Casey Clapp -- Encore Dec 29, 2020

    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


    Scorpiology (SCORPIONS) with Lauren Esposito: Encore Presentation Dec 22, 2020

    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


    Garology (LONG CUTE ANCIENT PATIENT BOOPABLE NIGHTMARE FISH) with Solomon David Dec 15, 2020

    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


    Space Archaeology (SPACE JUNK) with Alice Gorman Dec 08, 2020

    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


    Alligator Ecotoxicology (GATOR POISONS) with Laura Kojima Dec 01, 2020

    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


    Awesomeology (GRATITUDE) with Neil Pasricha Nov 24, 2020

    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


    Biological Anthropology (APE SEX) with Lara Durgavich Nov 17, 2020

    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


    Indigenous Fashionology (NATIVE CLOTHING) with Riley Kucheran Nov 11, 2020

    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


    Pedagogology (SCIENCE COMMUNICATION) with Bill Nye Nov 03, 2020

    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


    Cucurbitology (PUMPKINS) Encore with Anne Copeland Oct 28, 2020

    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


    Desairology (MORTUARY MAKE-UP) with Monica Torres Oct 27, 2020

    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


    Anthropodermic Biocodicology (HUMAN LEATHER BOOKS) with Megan Rosenbloom & Daniel Kirby Oct 21, 2020

    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


    Forest Entomology (CREEPY CRAWLIES) with Kristen Wickert Oct 13, 2020

    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


    Condorology (CONDORS & VULTURES) with Jonathan C. Hall Oct 07, 2020

    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


    Political Sociology (VOTER TURNOUT & SUPPRESSION) with Mindy Romero Sep 30, 2020

    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


    Fulminology (LIGHTNING) with Chris Giesige Sep 23, 2020

    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


    Mammalogy (MAMMALS) with Danielle N. Lee Sep 15, 2020

    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


    Cervidology Part 2 (DEER) with Rhiannons Jakopak & Kirton Sep 08, 2020

    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://Patreon.com/ologies


    Cervidology (DEER) Part 1 with Rhiannons Kirton & Jakopak Sep 02, 2020

    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


    Dasyurology (TASMANIAN DEVILS) with Jarrah Dale Aug 25, 2020

    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


    Oceanology (THE OCEAN) with Ayana Johnson: Encore Presentation Aug 18, 2020

    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


    Experimental Archaeology (OLD TOOLS/ATLATLS) with Angelo Robledo Aug 11, 2020

    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


    Toxinology (JELLYFISH VENOM) with Anna Klompen Aug 04, 2020

    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


    Medusology (JELLYFISH) with Rebecca Helm Jul 30, 2020

    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


    Minisode: Listeners Interview Alie Jul 23, 2020

    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


    Aperiology (MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY) with Joseph Saunders Jul 15, 2020

    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


    Agnotology (IGNORANCE) with Robert Proctor Jul 08, 2020

    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


    Bryology (MOSS) with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer Jun 30, 2020

    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


    Neuroendocrinology (SEX & GENDER) Part 2 with Daniel Pfau Jun 23, 2020

    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


    Neuroendocrinology (SEX & GENDER) Part 1 with Daniel Pfau Jun 16, 2020

    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


    Very Special Episode: BlackAFinSTEM with various Ologists Jun 10, 2020

    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


    Pelicanology (PELICANS) with Juita Martinez Jun 04, 2020

    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


    Oikology (DECLUTTERING) with Jamie & Filip Hord + Joe Ferrari May 26, 2020

    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


    Planariology (VERY COOL WORMS, I PROMISE) with Oné Pagán May 20, 2020

    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


    Coronasode: Virology Update (COVID-19) with Shannon Bennett & Mike Natter May 12, 2020

    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


    Architectural Technology (COMPUTER PROGRAMMING) with Iddris Sandu May 05, 2020

    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.spatiaLABS.io

    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


    Nassology (TAXIDERMY) with Allis Markham Apr 28, 2020

    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


    Penguinology (PENGUINS) with Tom Hart Apr 21, 2020

    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


    Gastroegyptology (BREAD BAKING) with Seamus Blackley Apr 14, 2020

    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


    Philematology (KISSING) with Robin Dunbar Apr 07, 2020

    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


    Plumology (FEATHERS) with Allison Shultz Mar 31, 2020

    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


    Lepidopterology (BUTTERFLIES & MOTHS) — Encore Presentation with Phil Torres Mar 25, 2020

    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


    Coronasode: All (Washed) Hands on Deck -- How to Help Yourself & Others Right Now with Dr. Michael F. Wells Mar 22, 2020

    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


    Veterinary Biology (CRITTER FIXING) with Dr. Vernard Hodges & Dr. Terrence Ferguson Mar 18, 2020

    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!

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    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


    Coronasode: Virology (COVID-19) with Dr. Shannon Bennett + various ologists Mar 10, 2020

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn

    Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies


    Scatology (POOP) with Rachel Santymire Mar 03, 2020

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn

    Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies


    Volitional Psychology (PROCRASTINATION) with Dr. Joseph R. Ferrari Feb 25, 2020

    “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


    Cryoseismology (ICEQUAKES) with Celeste Labedz Feb 18, 2020

    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


    Genealogy (FAMILY TREES) with Stephen Hanks Feb 11, 2020

    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


    Nephology (CLOUDS) with Rachel Storer Feb 04, 2020

    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


    Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) Part 2 with Dr. Mike Natter, MD Jan 28, 2020

    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


    Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR) Part 1 with Dr. Mike Natter, MD Jan 21, 2020

    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


    Bisonology (BUFFALO) with various bisonologists Jan 15, 2020

    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)

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    Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram

    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn


    Futurology (THE FUTURE) with Rose Eveleth Jan 07, 2020

    "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

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    Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram

    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn


    Fearology Pt. 2 (FEAR) with Mary Poffenroth -- Encore Presentation Dec 31, 2019

    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

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    Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram

    Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn


    Fearology Pt. 1 (FEAR) with Mary Poffenroth -- Encore Presentation Dec 24, 2019

    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

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    Follow @AlieWard on Twitter and Instagram

    Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn


    Audiobook Mixtape: Gift Ideas from the Ologists’ Brains Dec 18, 2019

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn


    Chronobiology (CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS) with Katherine Hatcher Dec 10, 2019

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn


    Phonology (LINGUISTICS) with Nicole Holliday — Encore Presentation Dec 03, 2019

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Music by Nick Thorburn


    Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) with Adam Becker Nov 26, 2019

    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

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    Follow @Ologies on Twitter and Instagram

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Music by Nick Thorburn


    Lupinology (WOLVES) with Bridgett vonHoldt Nov 19, 2019

    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


    Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS) with Crystal Dilworth Nov 12, 2019

    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


    Chiropterology Part 2 (BATS) with Merlin Tuttle Nov 05, 2019

    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

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    Sound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray Morris

    Theme song by Nick Thorburn

    Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies


    Chiropterology (BATS) Part 1 with Merlin Tuttle Oct 29, 2019

    “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


    Demonology (EVIL SPIRITS) with Alyssa Beall Oct 23, 2019

    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


    Spidroinology (SPIDERWEBS) with Randy Lewis Oct 15, 2019

    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


    Cucurbitology (PUMPKINS) with Anne Copeland Oct 08, 2019

    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


    Osteology (SKELETONS/BODY FARMS) with Daniel Wescott Oct 02, 2019

    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


    Phenology (FALL/SEASONS) with Libby Ellwood Sep 24, 2019

    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


    Potterology Part 2 (WIZARD SCIENCE) with Rebecca Lai Sep 17, 2019

    **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


    Potterology Part 1 (WIZARD SCIENCE) with Rebecca Lai Sep 10, 2019

    **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


    Vexillology (FLAGS) with E. Tory Laitila Sep 03, 2019

    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


    Paleontology (DINOSAURS) Encore Presentation with Michael Habib Aug 28, 2019

    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


    Disasterology (DISASTERS) with Samantha Montano Aug 21, 2019

    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


    100th Episode: Best Life Advice from Ologists + 100 More Ologies Aug 14, 2019

    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


    Saurology (LIZARDS) with Earyn McGee Aug 06, 2019

    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


    Graphology (HANDWRITING/FORGERY) with Sylvia Kessler Jul 31, 2019

    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






    Support the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies


    Cnidariology (CORAL) with Shayle Matsuda Jul 25, 2019

    Will changing your sunscreen save coral reefs? What even IS a coral? Where do they grow and