Ologies with Alie Ward

Five experts dive deep into ADHD, unraveling what diagnosis feels like and the surge in cases during the pandemic. They tackle the myths surrounding medication and the unique challenges faced, especially in marginalized communities. Personal anecdotes shine light on navigating relationships and support systems. The conversation emphasizes self-acceptance and the importance of understanding neurodiversity. Plus, there are some uplifting tips and a pep talk to boost self-esteem and embrace individual strengths. Embrace the neurodivergent journey!

Dr. Russell Barkley, a leading expert on ADHD and former clinical psychiatry professor, dives into the complexities of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. He addresses its genetic roots, challenges of co-existing conditions like anxiety, and the impact on personal relationships. Dr. Barkley emphasizes the serious implications of ADHD, debunking myths while sharing insights into treatment options and coping strategies. The conversation highlights the critical need for proper diagnosis and nurtures understanding in the ADHD community.

Dr. Nathalie Nagalingum, a renowned botanist and cycadologist, takes us on a thrilling journey into the world of cycads, these ancient plants that have survived for over 270 million years. She reveals the bizarre allure of cycads and the dark side of their appeal, including poaching and conservation efforts. Listeners will discover unique ecological relationships, the challenges of academic writing, and even tips for overcoming procrastination. With a touch of humor, Nathalie shares her passion for protecting these fascinating gymnosperms that are both beautiful and endangered.

Rae Wynn-Grant, a large carnivore ecologist and TV presenter, shares her passion for wildlife and conservation. She recalls adventurous moments, like stuffing a baby bear in her coat and the surprising discoveries she's made in the field. The conversation dives into the impacts of urbanization on carnivores, the emotional depths of wildlife research, and the unique adaptations of bears during hibernation. Rae also discusses her mission to connect Black youth with nature and the comedic science of carnivore scat—better known as poop!

Dr. Terry McGlynn, a myrmecologist and biology professor, dives into the captivating world of ants. He shares stories about cult-leader queens and bullet ant stings, exploring the dynamics of mega-colonies and their unique communication methods. Discover which ants are picky eaters, how some walk on water, and the curious practice of sniffing relatives before deciding to kill them. With a mix of humor and fascinating facts, he highlights the ants' impact on ecosystems and even discusses their surprising culinary potential!

Join Shane Campbell-Staton, a Princeton evolutionary biologist and thermophysiologist, for a fascinating dive into body heat management. Discover how animals like antifreeze wood frogs and jumping desert lizards survive extreme temperatures. Learn about the intriguing variations in body temperature, why some people feel hotter or colder, and the unexpected role of fevers in fighting infections. Plus, uncover the reasons behind the size differences in heat retention and the mystique of thermoregulation in different climates.

Mariah Gladstone, an environmental scientist and host of Indigikitchen, passionately discusses Indigenous food sovereignty and the role of traditional ingredients in modern cooking. She shares wild tales of shoving elk into dorm room freezers and diving into frybread debates. The conversation touches on mushroom foraging, the significance of bison ranching for community health, and the cultural importance of decolonizing diets. Listeners are encouraged to reconnect with indigenous food sources while celebrating culinary heritage and practices.

Harold Gouzoules, an acclaimed Emory psychology professor, dives into the wild world of screams. He explores the difference between yelling and screaming, sharing insights from his bioacoustics research. Discover the fascinating reasons behind why we scream at concerts and its cultural implications. Gouzoules also touches on the evolutionary purpose of screams across species and their role in emotions. Plus, hear about the iconic movie screams that shaped the scream queen legacy and the therapeutic insights of primal scream therapy.

Slamming heads together to impress someone: why does this happen? Let’s ask Dr. Nicole Ackermans, whose current job involves receiving sheep heads and painstakingly counting damaged neurons from headbutting concussions. The Neuropathology episode last week gives all the concussion basics, but this one turns the microscope away from accidents and points it right at intentional behaviors in nature, from bighorn sheep to musk oxen, goats, woodpeckers, and some other animals that will freak you out. Also: questionable helmet ideas and horny hogs.Get all the background on head trauma, including my recent brainwhack concussionCheck Dr. Nicole Ackerman's website and TwitterA donation was made to Society for Women's Health ResearchMore episode sources and linksSponsors of OlogiesTranscripts and bleeped episodesBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a monthOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes!Follow @Ologies on Twitter and InstagramFollow @AlieWard on Twitter and InstagramSound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam MediaTranscripts by Emily White of The WordaryWebsite by Kelly R. DwyerTheme song by Nick Thorburn Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jane McGonigal, a game designer and bestselling author known for her work on SuperBetter, dives into the fascinating world of gaming. She discusses the cognitive and psychological benefits of video games, revealing how they can boost resilience and foster community support. Addressing concerns around gaming addiction, Jane also explores the transformative effects of games for individuals with disabilities. Plus, she shares insights on the future of gaming, including the impactful role of VR and AR in personal development.