Ologies with Alie Ward

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 websiteFollow Cole on Instagram, Twitter and TikTokA donation was made to The School of American ThanatologyFollow The School of American Thanatology on InstagramSmologies (short, classroom-safe) episodesYou 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 PoemsSponsors of OlogiesTranscripts and bleeped episodesBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a monthOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!Follow @Ologies on Twitter and InstagramFollow @AlieWard on Twitter and InstagramSound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam MediaTranscripts by Emily White of The WordaryWebsite by Kelly R. DwyerTheme song by Nick Thorburn Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Camryn Allen, a dedicated cheloniologist, dives into the fascinating world of sea turtles. She shares captivating insights about their impressive navigation skills using Earth's magnetic field and their unique sleeping patterns. Learn about the delicate balance of male-to-female ratios in breeding and the emotional experiences of hatchlings facing climate change. Camryn also discusses the urgent need for conservation, tackling plastic pollution and the importance of individual action to safeguard these incredible creatures.

Amanda Hipps, a wildlife biologist and testudinologist, dives deep into the captivating world of gopher tortoises. She explains the differences between tortoises and turtles, and why these creatures live such long lives. The discussion covers their unique habitats, fascinating anatomy, and the surprising social behaviors of tortoises. Amanda also shares her adventures in wildlife biology, stories from the South Florida swamps, and the ecological importance of gopher tortoises as a keystone species. Get ready to fall in love with these ancient reptiles!

Join John Quentin Sturgeon, QAQC manager at Rogue Brewery with a rich background in food science, as he dives into the frothy world of beer. He reveals the crucial role yeast plays in fermentation and shares evoking stories from the brewery. Expect tales of family pride, charitable brewing efforts, and quirky tips for aspiring home brewers. Discover the humorous side of beer history and even the complexities surrounding a peculiar Guinness diet experiment, making the science of brewing both accessible and entertaining!

Dr. Simine Vazire, a renowned personality researcher and psychology professor, dives deep into the fascinating world of personality traits. She discusses the distinctions between introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts, along with the challenges of self-perception versus how others view us. The conversation critiques popular personality tests and even touches on the role of astrology in shaping personality. Vazire shares insights on changing traits through therapy, the impact of life experiences, and the surprising links between personality and professional success.

Join Dr. Kevin Peter Hand, Deputy Chief Scientist for Solar System Exploration at NASA, as he uncovers the secrets of extraterrestrial life. He discusses the potential habitability of moons like Europa and Enceladus, emphasizing their icy oceans. The conversation dives into the significance of the James Webb Space Telescope findings and explores intriguing possibilities on Titan and Mars. With insights into astrobiology and how discovering alien microbes could transform our view of life on Earth, this is a thrilling journey into the cosmos!

Dr. Chris J. Law, a dedicated lutrinologist, dives deep into the captivating world of otters, exploring their playful behavior and social dynamics. He shares amusing stories of their dual nature, from adorable antics to surprising aggression. Discover how otters support kelp forests and navigate motherhood's challenges while fostering intriguing relationships. With insights into their unique adaptations and fascinating diets, Chris showcases the charm and complexity of these remarkable creatures. Get ready to fall in love with otters—just don’t trust them too much!

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 OlogiesTranscripts and bleeped episodesSmologies (short, classroom-safe) episodesBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a monthOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, masks, totes!Follow @Ologies on Twitter and InstagramFollow @AlieWard on Twitter and InstagramSound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam MediaTranscripts by Emily White of The WordaryWebsite by Kelly R. DwyerTheme song by Nick Thorburn Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Shayle Matsuda, a cnidariologist with a PhD from the University of Hawaii, dives into the mesmerizing world of corals. He explains what corals really are and their unique ecosystems. Listeners learn about the alarming effects of coral bleaching and the fascinating phenomenon of coral spawning. Shayle shares insights on how certain sunscreens can harm coral reefs while uncovering surprising benefits of concrete structures for coral growth. It's a vibrant mix of science, conservation, and some culinary tips!

Join Australian dipterologist Dr. Bryan Lessard, known for his engaging work on flies and authoring 'Eyes on Flies for Kids.' He takes us on a fascinating journey into the world of flies, showcasing their incredible diversity and adaptability. From their vital role in pollination to their extraordinary evolutionary traits, like the transformation of wings into halteres, Bryan dispels the stigma around these misunderstood insects. Prepare to appreciate the beauty of flies while learning about their intriguing life cycles and surprising significance in ecosystems.