Ologies with Alie Ward

Join master potters Graham Taylor and Sarah Lord Taylor from Potted History as they unravel the enchanting world of ceramics. They discuss everything from the origins of clay to the ancient art of pottery. Tune in for insights on unique firing techniques like raku and the historical significance of amphorae. Expect humorous tales from the pottery world, including mishaps and delightful anecdotes. Their passion shines through as they explore how pottery reflects culture and personal history while inviting you to find joy in thrift store treasures.

Dr. Aaron Boster, a neurologist and founder of the Boster Center for MS, dives into the intricate world of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with personal anecdotes and expert insights. He discusses the emotional rollercoaster of diagnosis, innovative diagnostic methods, and lifestyle changes that can aid patients. Boster emphasizes the connection between gut health and MS, explores the impact of diet and exercise, and highlights the significance of self-advocacy in managing the disease. Plus, he offers tips on navigating the complexities of treatments and fall prevention.

Dr. Chris J. Law, a Lutrinologist with a PhD in ecology, dives into the whimsical and wild world of otters. He shares captivating tales of their contrasting behaviors—cute yet capable of mischief. Listeners will learn about otter terrorism, their quirky sleeping habits, and the significance of hand-holding. The conversation touches on conservation efforts and unique otter adaptations, including magical teeth for cracking shellfish. With humor and depth, Law reveals why these playful creatures inspire both trust and caution.

Dr. Joshua Greene, a Harvard Psychology professor and expert in moral psychology, dives into the complexities of the trolley problem and its ethical implications. He discusses how religion and neurodivergence influence moral decisions and the challenges of navigating differing political perspectives. Greene explores the effectiveness of charitable giving, introducing the innovative Giving Multiplier initiative. He also addresses how societal issues intersect with philosophy, touching on utilitarianism and the nature of morality, aiming to bridge divides through enhanced understanding.

Join meteorologist Matt Lanza and hurricane expert Dr. Kim Wood as they dive into the essential topics of hurricane preparedness and the intricacies of climate change. They discuss the government's role in weather funding, the curious notion of trusting Waffle House over forecasters, and the chilling reality of future storm predictions. With sharp insights on historical hurricanes and personal risk, this episode is a whirlwind of knowledge mixed with urgency and environmental awareness.

Join meteorologists Dr. Kim Wood, an associate professor specializing in tropical meteorology, and Matt Lanza, a Houston-based forecaster and co-founder of The Eye Wall, as they unravel the mysteries of hurricanes. They discuss the chilling truth behind female-named hurricanes, the mechanics of storm formation, and the importance of hurricane hunters. The duo also critiques the Saffir-Simpson scale, debunks myths surrounding hurricane names, and touches on climate change's impact on these fierce storms, all while sharing personal hurricane experiences.

Jenny Benjamin, director of the Trulson Marmor Museum of the Eye, shares the quirky history of eyeglasses, including what happened if they were stepped on by a horse. Optometrist Nadia Sledge dives into modern vision challenges, discussing how digital screens affect eyesight. They explore fascinating facts like Benjamin Franklin's invention of bifocals, and highlight the critical need for regular eye exams. Humor and history blend as they tackle outdated perceptions of eyewear and offer tips for maintaining eye health in today’s tech-driven world.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Ally Louks, a Literary Olfactologist and Cambridge scholar, reveals how smell shapes literature and culture. She explores the powerful impact of scents in novels, dissecting their connection to class and identity. Their conversation travels through the fascinating politics of smell, from censorship scandals in classic literature to the societal perceptions associated with various aromas. Louks articulates how olfactory experiences inform our emotional landscapes and memories, making a compelling case for the significance of smell in storytelling.

Uma Chatterjee, a neuroscientist and mental health advocate, shares her personal journey with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). She discusses the power of Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy and the impact of cultural perceptions on mental health. Uma highlights the importance of support systems and challenges stigma surrounding OCD, while also exploring innovative treatments like psychedelics. Listeners gain insight into living with OCD and the significance of compassion in overcoming its hurdles.

Join psychiatrist Wayne Goodman, a leading advocate and researcher in OCD, as he dives into the intricate world of obsessive-compulsive disorder. They tackle common myths and misconceptions, discuss effective treatments like ERP therapy and deep brain stimulation, and explore the genetic links to Tourette syndrome. Goodman offers crucial insights on navigating OCD, including the challenges of diagnosis and the stigma faced by those affected. This engaging conversation sheds light on both the science and the personal experiences surrounding OCD.