Ologies with Alie Ward

In this engaging discussion, Maggie Coblentz, an artist and astrobromatologist who's researched space food at MIT and the ISS, dives into the quirky world of food beyond Earth. She shares wild tales of dehydrated meals, the art of zero-G cooking, and the challenge of growing food for Mars. You'll learn about astronaut cravings, the ethics surrounding space food tourism, and the impact of design on dining in orbit. Plus, Maggie humorously addresses the infamous astronaut ice cream and the importance of morale-boosting treats in space!

Join pteridologist Fay-Wei Li, an associate professor and author of 'Ferns: Lessons in Survival from Earth’s Most Adaptable Plants,' as he unpacks the fascinating world of ferns. Discover the surprising resilience of resurrection ferns and the peculiarities of fern reproduction, including a connection to Lady Gaga. Learn about edible fiddleheads, endangered species, and the mathematical patterns ferns exhibit. Fay-Wei also shares tips on caring for house ferns and touches on the vibrant community of fern enthusiasts.

Dr. Dirk Moses, a leading scholar in genocide studies and author of "The Problems of Genocide," returns to discuss evolving sentiments about atrocity crimes. He examines the implications of recent military actions in Gaza and distinguishes between genocide and other war crimes. The conversation dives into the role of international politics, the impact of social media on public perception, and the criminalization of protests. Moses emphasizes the importance of accurate labeling in human rights discourse and reflects on the need for activism amidst complex realities.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Ken Cannon, an archaeological bison expert, shares his journey from marine biology to studying ancient bison in Yellowstone. Wildlife biologist Dr. Dan McNulty speaks on modern bison behavior and their ecological significance. Together, they tackle topics like bison anatomy, population dynamics, and hybridization. Boyd and Lila Evans from the Blackfeet Tribe share their experience in bison ranching and cultural restoration efforts. Expect fascinating insights on bison safety, conservation, and the historical impact of these majestic creatures.

R. J. Gutiérrez, a celebrated owl researcher and Professor Emeritus, dives into the captivating world of owls. He explains their unique features like reversible toes, silent flight, and intriguing behaviors during nesting. Gutiérrez hilariously discusses owls' dual symbolism in folklore—both wisdom and doom—and addresses conservation challenges, including the impact of barred owls on their spotted cousins. With anecdotes from the field and insights on how to help these majestic birds, this conversation will make you appreciate owls even more.

R.J. "Rocky" Gutiérrez, a celebrated professor emeritus and owl expert, takes listeners on a fascinating journey into the world of owls. He shares how his childhood sparked a lifelong passion for these mysterious birds. Discover why some owls have ear tufts, how they achieve silent flight, and the nuances of their hunting techniques. Rocky also explains the unique nesting habits of owls and dives into their social behaviors, like allopreening. Get ready to reimagine owls as the best birds!

Deborah Blum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning science writer and expert in toxicology, dives into the chilling world of historical poisons. She discusses how odorless substances like arsenic were perfect for covert homicides, the fascinating evolution of forensic science, and the lethal charm of toxic plants. From Aqua Tofana's historical significance to the unexpected risks of common foods, Blum unravels poison myths prominent in fiction. She also reflects on the emotional weight of researching poisoning cases and how society’s perceptions of poisons have changed.

Kenneth MacKendrick, a professor at the University of Manitoba and author of 'Evil: A Critical Primer,' takes listeners on a deep dive into the concept of evil. He explores how cultural narratives shape our understanding of what constitutes 'evil,' using Dracula as a lens to discuss human dehumanization. The conversation touches on the power dynamics of labeling, emotional responses like disgust and shame, and the historical context behind evil in society. MacKendrick also examines how language influences our perception and why women are often associated with impurity.

In this intriguing discussion, Dr. Joshua Benoit, a biological sciences professor at the University of Cincinnati, and Dr. Sinead English delve into the fascinating world of cockroach milk. They share how this surprisingly nutritious substance is produced by the unique cockroach species Diploptera punctata, which gives live birth and nurses its young. The researchers explore the evolution of viviparity in insects, the composition and extraction of cockroach milk, and the potential for it to become a new food source—if only it could be tasted!

Dr. Dominic Evangelista, an entomologist and cockroach specialist at the University of Illinois, dives into the fascinating world of these often-misunderstood insects. He discusses the stunning diversity of cockroach species, from colorful varieties to their surprising parental care behaviors. Learn about their unique mating rituals involving 'gifts,' their impressive survival skills, and why they are more complex than we think. Dominic even shares how we might reframe our perceptions of cockroaches—and perhaps even learn to love them!