Ologies with Alie Ward

Katherine Hatcher, a PhD candidate and chronobiologist at the University of Illinois, shares her expertise on circadian rhythms and sleep cycles. She reveals the effects of light exposure on sleep quality and how modern lifestyles disrupt our natural rhythms. Katherine dives into the unique sleeping habits of animals and the impact of shift work on health. She provides insights into managing sleep hygiene and emphasizes the importance of establishing consistent routines for better well-being, encouraging listeners to embrace the power of good sleep.

Join Nicole Holliday, an Assistant Professor of Linguistics at Pomona College, as she dives into the fascinating world of phonology. She explores how intonation and pitch shape our identities and relationships, weaving through topics like vocal fry and code switching. Discover the cultural implications of slang, particularly African American Language, and the dynamics of 'Black Twitter.' With humor, they even tackle the debate over the greatest rapper and the social nuances of communication, all while underscoring the importance of linguistic diversity.

Dr. Adam Becker, an astrophysicist and author of "What is Real?," joins the conversation to tackle the mind-bending questions of quantum physics. He shares his journey from dreams of paleontology to exploring the abstract wonders of quantum ontology. Topics include the mind-blowing implications of multiverses, the complexities of wave-particle duality, and even humorous takes on fringe theories like simulation theory. Becker emphasizes exploring the quirks of existence while encouraging listeners to embrace their curiosity about reality.

Lupinologist and Princeton professor Dr. Brigette vonHoldt talks about wolf behavior, canine family dynamics, Game of Thrones direwolves, myths about alphas, similarities in dog and human genetics, the ecological impact of predators, and how social media is howling for humans.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Crystal Dilworth, a neuroscientist and host of CBS's *Mission Unstoppable*, delves into the fascinating world of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. She discusses their roles in mood and behavior, the science behind addiction, and what it’s like to hold a human brain. The talk also touches on topics such as mindfulness, the complexities of ADHD, and how substances like caffeine and nicotine affect our brains. Plus, hear her unique journey from ballet to brain science!

PART 2: The stunning conclusion of a 3-hour gab session about frickin' bats with America's favorite chiropterologist, Dr. Merlin Tuttle. Learn about bat conversations, their close friendships, surprising dongs, where they keep their nipples, how to go bat spotting after the sun sets, more myths and misconceptions about bat danger, perhaps the grossest thing Merlin has ever put in his mouth, how to hang up a bat house for maximum bat party funtimes, the latest on white nose syndrome and how it feels to get slapped by a bat. Once again: Indiana Jones can get bent because Dr. Merlin Tuttle is the hero this nation needs. Learn more about bats & Dr. Merlin Tuttle's photography & work in conservation:www.MerlinTuttle.orgDr. Merlin Tuttle's bat books: www.merlintuttle.org/category/books/Social media links:www.instagram.com/merlintuttlephotowww.twitter.com/merlinsbatswww.facebook.com/MerlinTuttlesBatConservationSponsor links: kiwi.com/ologies; calm.com/ologies; hellofresh.com/ologies9, code: Ologies9; mytruition.com/ologies; More links up at alieward.com/ologies/chiropterologyBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologiesOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS!Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologiesFollow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWardSound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray MorrisTheme song by Nick ThorburnSupport the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies

“People fear most what they understand least." Words of wisdom from explorer/American treasure/bat expert, Dr. Merlin Tuttle. Alie headed to the bat capital of Austin and sat down with the legendary chiropterologist to discuss wild field stories and close calls and caves and comebacks and bat chatter and what a bat actually is and how big they get and what's up with their smushy noses, why folks are so frightened by them, the evolution of flight, echolocation, getting a bat out of your house, how they sleep upside down, which ones guzzle blood, and the latest on white nose syndrome -- which is not a drug problem. Sit back with a cup of tea or something stronger and get ready for adventure. Indiana Jones can get bent because Dr. Merlin Tuttle is the hero this nation needs. Learn more about bats & Dr. Merlin Tuttle's photography & work in conservation:www.MerlinTuttle.orgDr. Merlin Tuttle's bat books: www.merlintuttle.org/category/books/Social media links:www.instagram.com/merlintuttlephotowww.twitter.com/merlinsbatswww.facebook.com/MerlinTuttlesBatConservationSponsor links: periodbetter.com, code OLOGIES; Proactiv.com/skin; StitchFix.com/OLOGIES; Airbnb.com/animalsMore links up at alieward.com/ologies/chiropterologyBecome a patron of Ologies for as little as a buck a month: www.Patreon.com/ologiesOlogiesMerch.com has hats, shirts, pins, totes and STIIIICKERS!Follow twitter.com/ologies or instagram.com/ologiesFollow twitter.com/AlieWard or instagram.com/AlieWardSound editing by Jarrett Sleeper of MindJam Media & Steven Ray MorrisTheme song by Nick ThorburnSupport the show: http://Patreon.com/ologies

West Virginia Univ. Religious Studies professor Dr. Alyssa Beall discusses myths on demons, possession, and why humans are drawn to fear. Are demons pranksters or evil entities? Exploring the psychology behind fear and misconceptions about demonic possession. Touching on supernatural entities in pop culture and historical connections between demons and medical conditions.

Spider silk expert Dr. Randy Lewis discusses spidroins, spider silk production, genetic modification, drug effects on webs, and biomedical applications. They explore spider webs, debunk myths, and touch on the potential of spider silk in various industries.

Author and pumpkin enthusiast Anne Copeland discusses pumpkin folklore, history, recipes, and more. Topics include creation myths, pumpkin care, medicinal properties of seeds, proposing via pumpkin, and debunking pumpkin origin stories. Dive into the magical world of pumpkins and gourds with whimsical anecdotes and informative tidbits.