
Ologies with Alie Ward
Volcanoes. Trees. Drunk butterflies. Mars missions. Slug sex. Death. Beauty standards. Anxiety busters. Beer science. Bee drama. Take away a pocket full of science knowledge and charming, bizarre stories about what fuels these professional -ologists' obsessions. Humorist and science correspondent Alie Ward asks smart people stupid questions and the answers might change your life.
Latest episodes

May 1, 2024 • 1h 25min
Foraging Ecology (EATING WILD PLANTS) Encore with @BlackForager, Alexis Nikole Nelson
Join the fun with Alexis Nikole Nelson @BlackForager as she spills the mustard gossip, knotweed recipes, and hogweed warnings. Learn about the joys of foraging, invasive species, indigenous knowledge, and community support. Discover the magical world of wild plants, mushrooms, and even Morels. Embrace the cultural empowerment of foraging and the importance of sustainable practices.

Apr 24, 2024 • 1h 3min
Columbidology (PIGEONS? YES) Part 2 with Rosemary Mosco
Rosemary Mosco, Columbidologist and author of Bird and Moon comics, tackles listener questions on pigeons, from bonded pairs to the extinct passenger pigeon. They discuss cinematic pigeons, gender reveals, Las Vegas pigeon mysteries, and how to help pigeon feet. And did someone spot a wedding bird escapee?

45 snips
Apr 17, 2024 • 1h 2min
Columbidology (PIGEONS? YES) Part 1 with Rosemary Mosco
Pigeon advocate, Rosemary Mosco, dives into the world of pigeons from espionage to fancy breeds and internal GPS. Debunking misconceptions about pigeons and their role as messenger birds. Exploring their diet, legalities in urban areas, and disease transmission. Touching personal tales of pigeon passion and nesting habits. A mellow and informative discussion on the misunderstood world of pigeons.

7 snips
Apr 13, 2024 • 25min
Smologies #42: TREES with J. Casey Clapp
Possibly the world's most enthusiastic tree expert, J. Casey Clapp, explains the communication and sensitivity of trees, the amazing attributes of Coastal Redwoods, and how roots communicate with each other. Also, topics include maple syrup extraction, tree physiology, and the joy of protecting trees.

Apr 10, 2024 • 53min
Field Trip: I Chased the 2024 Eclipse with Umbraphiles
Join the host on an adventure chasing the 2024 eclipse, filled with last-minute decisions, emotional rollercoasters, and awe-inspiring moments. Experience the journey with strangers, highway scenery, hope, anxiety, and tears as they wait for totality to unfold.

11 snips
Apr 3, 2024 • 1h 36min
Heliology (THE SUN/ECLIPSES) with India Jackson and Michael Kirk
Learn all about the Sun and upcoming eclipses from NASA's heliologists. They discuss solar science, solar phenomena, evolution of stars, solar eclipses, and mysteries of solar physics. Exciting insights into the giant plasma ball we revolve around!

Mar 30, 2024 • 25min
Smologies #41: PELICANS with Juita Martinez
Pelicanologist Juita Martinez discusses the mysterious world of pelicans, from their unique hunting habits to conservation efforts. Topics include sibling rivalry, limericks about their bills, and the joy of observing these glorious dinosaurs up close.

Mar 27, 2024 • 1h 29min
Disgustology (REPULSION TO GROSS STUFF) with Paul Rozin
Foremost expert in disgust, Paul Rozin, chats about what triggers our revulsion and how psychologists study disgust. Topics range from food aversions to xenophobia, exploring horror movies and germaphobia. They discuss the origins of disgust, humor, and emotions, dissecting evolutionary and cultural aspects of repulsion. The conversation delves into relationships, cleanliness standards, and phobias, touching on the psychology of dietary choices and the appeal of hot peppers.

21 snips
Mar 21, 2024 • 47min
Field Trip: Alie’s Mystery Surgery!
Join the host on a personal journey of a mystery surgery, sharing fears, preparations, and emotional reflections. Learn about hormonal imbalance, anesthesia prep, and the rollercoaster of emotions from anxiety to relief. A reminder to prioritize proactive health planning and take control of your future.

4 snips
Mar 18, 2024 • 25min
Smologies #40: HAIR with Valerie Horsley
Discover the intricate world of hair with a Yale researcher. Explore the science of hair growth, stem cells, genetic influences, varying hair types, and the importance of hair in animals. Delve into the biology of hair follicles, the role of melanin in coloration, and the fascinating parallels between nails and hair growth.