Ologies with Alie Ward

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Crystal Dilworth, a neuroscientist and host of CBS's *Mission Unstoppable*, delves into the fascinating world of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. She discusses their roles in mood and behavior, the science behind addiction, and what it’s like to hold a human brain. The talk also touches on topics such as mindfulness, the complexities of ADHD, and how substances like caffeine and nicotine affect our brains. Plus, hear her unique journey from ballet to brain science!

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.orgDr. Merlin Tuttle's bat books: www.merlintuttle.org/category/books/Social media links:www.instagram.com/merlintuttlephotowww.twitter.com/merlinsbatswww.facebook.com/MerlinTuttlesBatConservationSponsor links: kiwi.com/ologies; calm.com/ologies; hellofresh.com/ologies9, code: Ologies9; mytruition.com/ologies; More links up at alieward.com/ologies/chiropterologyBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologiesOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS!Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologiesFollow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWardSound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray MorrisTheme song by Nick ThorburnSupport the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“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.orgDr. Merlin Tuttle's bat books: www.merlintuttle.org/category/books/Social media links:www.instagram.com/merlintuttlephotowww.twitter.com/merlinsbatswww.facebook.com/MerlinTuttlesBatConservationSponsor links: periodbetter.com, code OLOGIES; Proactiv.com/skin; StitchFix.com/OLOGIES; Airbnb.com/animalsMore links up at alieward.com/ologies/chiropterologyBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologiesOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS!Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologiesFollow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWardSound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray MorrisTheme song by Nick ThorburnSupport the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

West Virginia Univ. Religious Studies professor Dr. Alyssa Beall discusses myths on demons, possession, and why humans are drawn to fear. Are demons pranksters or evil entities? Exploring the psychology behind fear and misconceptions about demonic possession. Touching on supernatural entities in pop culture and historical connections between demons and medical conditions.

Spider silk expert Dr. Randy Lewis discusses spidroins, spider silk production, genetic modification, drug effects on webs, and biomedical applications. They explore spider webs, debunk myths, and touch on the potential of spider silk in various industries.

Author and pumpkin enthusiast Anne Copeland discusses pumpkin folklore, history, recipes, and more. Topics include creation myths, pumpkin care, medicinal properties of seeds, proposing via pumpkin, and debunking pumpkin origin stories. Dive into the magical world of pumpkins and gourds with whimsical anecdotes and informative tidbits.

Dr. Daniel Wescott, an osteologist from Texas State University, discusses bones, decomposition, CSI inaccuracies, body farms, isotopes, cast iron coffins, skeleton myths, body donation, and more. The podcast explores 'dickbones,' human bone functions, historical challenges, anatomical discrepancies, growth plates, tailbones, and penis bones in humans.

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 TwitterA 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/phenologyBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologiesOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS!Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologiesFollow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWardSound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray MorrisTheme song by Nick ThorburnSupport the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In a delightful conversation, Dr. Rebecca Lai, an electrochemist and professor known for her unique course on Harry Potter's chemistry, dives into the enchanting intersection of magic and science. She discusses the wonders of disappearing ink and the chemistry behind enchanting spells. Listeners will be captivated by her insights on the medical benefits of ginger, as well as the ways magic influences well-being. Through humorous anecdotes and engaging stories, she showcases how the scientific method parallels writing a novel, encouraging curiosity and connection to the magical world.

Rebecca Lai, an electrochemist and professor who teaches "A Muggle’s Guide to Harry Potter’s Chemistry," joins to explore the enchanting mix of magic and science. She reveals the secrets behind disappearing ink and gold nanoparticles, discussing their connection to both alchemy and the Harry Potter universe. The conversation also highlights how creativity in writing parallels scientific experimentation and emphasizes the importance of resilience. With charming anecdotes, Rebecca shares insights on hydrophobic technology, culinary chemistry, and the magical properties of wand woods.