

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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 10, 2021 • 1h 11min
Audiobook Mixtape 2: Gift Ideas from the Ologists’ Brains
This mixtape showcases delightful snippets from various ologists, offering a lively blend of topics. Explore the intriguing relationship between cider and love, and dive into the unique friendships found in nature. Laughter ensues as animal genitalia is humorously examined, while thrilling tales of volcanology and the quest for extraterrestrial life unfold. Engaging discussions on UFOs and climate justice highlight important social themes. Plus, discover the dark history of books bound in human skin and enjoy festive writing insights!

8 snips
Dec 7, 2021 • 29min
Smologies #7: CATS with Mikel Delgado
Dr. Mikel Delgado, a cat behavior expert with a PhD in psychology, shares fascinating insights about our feline friends. Discover why cats adore boxes and the emotional significance behind their kneading behavior. Learn tips for playing with cats and enhancing their well-being, as well as how to read their unique body language. From the social dynamics of cats to their quirky habit of sitting on laptops, this engaging discussion is a treasure trove for cat lovers looking to understand their furry companions better.

Nov 30, 2021 • 57min
Forensic Ecology (NATURE DETECTIVE) with Tiara Moore
In this engaging discussion, Tiara Moore, an environmental scientist and marine biologist, shares her journey from a pre-med path to discovering her passion for marine science during an ecology course in Costa Rica. She dives into the detective work of forensic ecology—sampling sea and soil to uncover environmental mysteries. Tiara also highlights the importance of diversity in marine science, advocating for marginalized voices while addressing issues like nutrient pollution and algal blooms. Plus, she humorously recounts her fieldwork adventures, including using Slurpee straws for sample collection!

Nov 24, 2021 • 59min
Booster Coronasode: Shots & Holidays with Vaccine Infodemiologist Jessica Malaty Rivera
Jessica Malaty Rivera, a vaccine infodemiologist from Boston Children's Hospital, shares vital insights about COVID-19 and vaccinations, especially as the holidays approach. She highlights that vaccinated individuals are significantly less likely to catch and spread the virus, while also discussing concerns about breakthrough cases and the importance of booster shots, particularly for pregnant individuals. The episode tackles misconceptions around vaccination, the risks of holiday gatherings, and the need for higher vaccination rates among children.

Nov 22, 2021 • 27min
Smologies #6: WOLVES with Bridgett vonHoldt
This week features Bridgett vonHoldt, an Associate Professor at Princeton University and expert in wolf biology. Dive into fascinating insights about wolf howls, the truth behind alpha roles, and the historical roots of wolves in nature. Bridgett explores the unexpected connections between wolves and our beloved dogs, revealing the intricacies of their evolution. Plus, she shares practical tips for safely encountering wolves and highlights the importance of supporting conservation efforts for these majestic creatures. Celebrate the joyful quirks of the canine world!

Nov 17, 2021 • 43min
Tiktokology (THE TIKTOK APP) with Hank Green
Who’s on it? What’s on it? And why does the interface feel like you’re on a prank show? Scicomm host, vlogger, author, internet friend, and TikTok-maker Hank Green stops in to chat about learning the language of the algorithm, dopamine, duets, data concerns, idealized selves, self-expression, mental health, authenticity, work/ life boundaries. And just a bunch of milk. Follow Hank on TikTok, Twitter and InstagramAlie Dadward aka me on TikTokGet Hank’s books! An Absolutely Remarkable Thing, A Beautifully Foolish EndeavorTHE MILK VIDEOHis website: hankgreen.comA donation was made to Partners in HealthMore episodes resources & linksSponsors of OlogiesTranscripts & bleeped episodesBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a monthOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and InstagramFollow @alieward on Twitter and InstagramSound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray MorrisTranscripts by Emily White of The WordaryWebsite by Kelly R. Dwyer Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

60 snips
Nov 10, 2021 • 1h 34min
Dolorology (PAIN) with Rachel Zoffness
PAIN. What is it? Where does it come from? And how can we hurt less? Which hurts more, a kidney stone or heartache? Why does chronic pain persist? Can we turn down our pain dials? To answer these huge questions, pain psychologist Dr. Rachel Zoffness enthusiastically explains the brain, pain and how to retrain it. She is an unabashed neuronerd and a ray of hope in a field that is misunderstood, neglected and under-explained. A true life-changer of a person. Follow Dr. Rachel Zoffness on Twitter and InstagramHer Pain Management Workbook on Bookshop.org and AmazonHer website, which has a resource page with a ton of free info: zoffness.comA donation was made to The Trevor ProjectMore episode resources & linksSponsors of OlogiesTranscripts & bleeped episodesBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a monthOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, totes, masks… Follow @ologies on Twitter and InstagramFollow @alieward on Twitter and InstagramSound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray MorrisTranscripts by Emily White of The WordaryWebsite by Kelly R. Dwyer Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 3, 2021 • 57min
Teuthological Ludology (ACTUAL SQUID GAMES, NOT THE TV SHOW) with Sarah McAnulty
Dr. Sarah McAnulty, a squid expert and founder of Skype a Scientist, dives into the playful and sometimes deceptive world of squids. She shares hilarious stories, revealing how these creatures use ink clouds to escape and even engage in clever mating tactics. Explore the unique social dynamics and impressive camouflage abilities of cephalopods, along with quirky trivia from a fun squid hotline. This conversation is full of deep-sea gossip and fascinating insights about these intelligent marine beings!

Nov 1, 2021 • 26min
Smologies #5: VETERINARY BIOLOGY with Vernard Hodges & Terrence Ferguson
Vernard Hodges and Terrence Ferguson are seasoned veterinarians and co-owners of the Critter Fixers clinic, known for their charming presence on Nat Geo's "Critter Fixers: Country Vets." They share fascinating stories about caring for exotic pets, from spiders to camels. Listen in as they discuss the emotional rollercoaster of veterinary medicine, the importance of preventative care, and surprising insights on pet nutrition. They also reveal the weirdest things they've extracted from animals, providing both laughs and valuable pet care wisdom.

11 snips
Oct 27, 2021 • 1h 5min
Taphology (GRAVESITES) with Robyn S. Lacy
Join archaeologist Robyn S. Lacy, a taphologist with a passion for gravestone symbols and preservation, as she explores the fascinating world of cemeteries. Discover the difference between graveyards and cemeteries, and whether picnicking in one is acceptable. Robyn shares insights on the emotional effects of tombstone scrubbing, fun font trends, and her love for 'Zinkies.' Get ready for a light-hearted dive into grave marker history, the dos and don'ts of gravestone cleaning, and the rich stories behind those resting beneath the stones.


