Ologies with Alie Ward

Simon Singh, author of "The Code Book" and cryptology expert, dives into the intriguing world of secret codes. He reminisces about the Enigma machine's pivotal role in WWII and shares tales of code talkers and playful languages like Pig Latin. Singh discusses the cryptographic legacy of figures like Alan Turing and historical enigmas such as the Beale cipher. The conversation also explores future challenges posed by AI and quantum computing. Prepare for a blend of humor, history, and mystery in the art of cryptology!

Bill Leikam, a fox behavioral expert and author of "The Road to Fox Hollow," shares his passion for gray foxes. He dives into their unique traits, adorable antics, and their intriguing social dynamics, including amusing 'scat wars' with red foxes. Listeners learn about their parental strategies, diets, and the conservation needs of these elusive creatures. Bill also describes how these tiny foxes adapt to urban environments and reflects on their emotional lives, making for a delightful and insightful discussion about the complexities of living alongside them.

Chanelle Zaphiropoulos, a maritime archaeologist and passionate scuba diver, takes listeners on an enchanting journey beneath the waves. Discover the allure of shipwrecks like the Titanic and the ethical dilemmas behind raising artifacts. Chanelle shares fascinating tales of pirates, warships, and the ecosystems that form around sunken vessels. She also tackles the myths of Atlantis and the real-life challenges of underwater archaeology. Dive into the mysteries of maritime history and the unique sea life that thrives on these forgotten treasures!

Join Dr. Marshal Hedin, a passionate arachnologist from San Diego State University, as he explores the quirky world of spiders. Discover why some spiders have surprising friends, like frogs, and learn how to identify the harmless ones. Hedin debunks myths surrounding arachnophobia, while discussing the importance of spider conservation and their ecological roles. With humor and fascinating anecdotes, he sheds light on the intricate biology of these often-misunderstood creatures, making even the most fearful reconsider their stance on spiders!

In this lively discussion, Abeba Birhane, a cognitive scientist and AI ethics expert from Trinity College, tackles the hot topic of artificial intelligence's impact on society. She dives into the ethical implications of AI job displacement and the need for inclusivity in tech. The conversation spins through the humorous side of rude chatbots and the curious gender dynamics in AI voices. Abeba emphasizes the risk of AI reinforcing societal biases and the urgent necessity for regulation. Plus, bacon ice cream makes a cameo!

It’s Part 2 of how to fix your life with hobbies! Pretty much. Journalist/author of “The Connection Cure” Julia Hotz explains the science behind forest bathing, how privilege affects accessibility to hobbies and what to do about it, how to figure out what lights you up, how to schedule time for hobbies if you have no time to do hobbies, why I used to call my old job at newspaper Club Karoshi, what if social interaction gives you the willies, what if depression keeps you from doing the things that lift depression, being social without having to spend money or get wasted, why volunteering is such an antidepressant, why rehabs use social prescribing, if protesting is a good hobby, and why you should go take a walk. Also: did I go to the ukulele meeting or chicken out?Listen to Part 1 hereVisit Julia’s website and follow her on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and SubstackBuy her book The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and BelongingA donation went to GrowNYCMore episode sources and linksSmologies (short, classroom-safe) episodesOther episodes you may enjoy: Dolorology (PAIN), Eudemonology (HAPPINESS), Critical Ecology (SOCIAL SYSTEMS + ENVIRONMENT), Post-Viral Epidemiology (LONG COVID), Disability Sociology (DISABILITY PRIDE), Ergopathology (BURNOUT), Biogerontology (AGING), Canistrumology (BASKET WEAVING), Domestic Phytology (HOUSEPLANTS), Ethnoecology (ETHNOBOTANY/NATIVE PLANTS), Dendrology (TREES)Sponsors of OlogiesTranscripts and bleeped episodesBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a monthOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, hoodies, totes!Follow Ologies on Instagram and BlueskyFollow Alie Ward on Instagram and TikTokEditing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jake ChaffeeManaging Director: Susan HaleScheduling Producer: Noel DilworthTranscripts by Aveline Malek Website by Kelly R. DwyerTheme song by Nick Thorburn

Julia Hotz, a journalist and author of "The Connection Cure," dives into the fascinating science of salugenology—how hobbies influence our mental and physical health. She discusses the importance of social prescribing and how reconnecting with personal interests can vastly improve well-being. Julia shares insights on overcoming barriers to hobbies, the impact of quarantine on mental health, and innovative community programs that promote engagement. With engaging anecdotes, she reveals why hobbies aren't just fun but essential tools for cultivating a healthier life.

Adam Met, a climate activist, PhD, and member of AJR, discusses innovative ways to approach climate advocacy without despair. He explains how artists can leverage their fanbases for social change and emphasizes the importance of community engagement in environmental efforts. Met shares insights on balancing personal responsibility with collective action, and how experiences like concerts can inspire motivation for activism. Plus, he previews his upcoming book, which focuses on using connections to amplify meaningful climate initiatives.

In a fascinating conversation, Dr. Robin Nagle, a clinical professor and author, dives into the world of waste management as a former NYC sanitation worker. She shares intriguing tales about the treasures found in trash and the surprising value of garbage. Topics include recycling myths, the plastic dilemma, and the future of waste management. Nagle also discusses the societal perceptions of sanitation workers and their essential role in public health. Expect insights on everything from mobsters in landfills to the ethics of disposal!

Evan Pridmore, a medieval codicologist and art history communicator, dives into the whimsical world of medieval manuscripts. They discuss hilarious themes like human-faced animals, drunken monks, and a surprising preoccupation with snails. Evan reveals the intricate process of manuscript creation, the evolution of artistic trends, and how past societal sentiments resonate today. They also tackle the underlying themes of xenophobia and antisemitism found in these texts, blending history with humor, all while highlighting the importance of cultural contributions and charitable initiatives.