Ologies with Alie Ward

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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.

Tyler Thrasher, a plant hybridizer and author known for his engaging approach to botany, shares his passion for household plants. He dives into the hilarious challenges of plant parenthood, from overwatering mishaps to tips on caring for tropical plants like orchids. Tyler emphasizes the emotional benefits of greenery in our lives and discusses ethical cultivation practices, including the risks of illegal plant poaching. With anecdotes and humor, he highlights the joy of naming plants and offers practical advice for nurturing indoor jungles.

Long Covid Part 2: Treatments. Studies. Histamines. Hormones. POTS. Clots. Hearts. Hope. Highly-respected Long Covid expert, Dr. Wes Ely, is back for all of your listener questions. We also check in with Physics Girl Diana Cowern on her years-long struggle with the disease. So start with Part 1, and then finish up with this episode addressing all your straggling questions, and great advice for patients and caregivers. Follow Dr. Ely on GoogleScholarBuy Dr. Ely’s book, Every Deep-Drawn Breath, on Bookshop.org or AmazonDonations went to: Critical Illness, Brain Dysfunction, And Survivorship (CIBS) Center, Cohen Center for Recovery from Complex Chronic Illness, and Open Medicine Foundation – Diana Cowern’s favorite cause to support clinical trialsMore episode sources and linksSmologies (short, classroom-safe) episodesOther episodes you may enjoy: Surgical Angiology (VEINS & ARTERIES), Cardiology (THE HEART), Disability Sociology (DISABILITY PRIDE), Molecular Biology (PROTEINS + SCIENCE COMMUNICATION), Nephrology (KIDNEYS), Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR)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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Wes Ely, a renowned pulmonary and intensive care physician from Vanderbilt University, dives deep into the complexities of Long Covid. He discusses the legitimacy of the condition, contrasting it with other post-viral illnesses like HIV. Dr. Ely highlights the unpredictable symptoms such as fatigue and brain fog, while emphasizing the importance of caregiver support. He also sheds light on the vascular impacts of COVID-19, including microclots, and advocates for ongoing research and empathetic, patient-centered care to tackle the challenges of long Covid.

Danielle Lindemann, a sociology professor and author, dives deep into the world of reality TV, exploring its fascinating social implications. She discusses how shows like 'The Real World' have influenced academic sociology. The conversation highlights the dual nature of reality TV as both escapism and a mirror to societal issues like class and race. Lindemann critiques the ethical dilemmas of casting and the psychological challenges faced by contestants while probing the genre's impact on authenticity and cultural representation. It's a riveting look at how 'trash' TV reflects our values.