Ologies with Alie Ward

Dr. Jane Gregory is a professional Misophonologist and clinical psychologist at Oxford University, passionate about understanding misophonia. She shares the intense emotional impact of common triggers like lip smacking and metal clinking. Listeners learn the prevalence of misophonia, coping strategies, and innovative therapies. Jane discusses the psychological nuances behind sound sensitivities and offers advice for supporting loved ones. Expect fascinating insights into the intersection of sound and emotions, sprinkled with humor about daily life challenges!

Catherine Price, an award-winning journalist and author of "The Power of Fun," dives deep into the essence of fun. She discusses the difference between genuine and 'fake' fun, the importance of seeking joy even in tough times, and how fun influences our well-being. The conversation touches on navigating remote work, the contagious nature of laughter, and the significance of playful connections, both with pets and people. Price also urges us to reclaim joy in a capitalist world, highlighting that true happiness transcends financial status.

Dr. Daniel Pfau, a neuroscientist and endocrinology expert, explores the complexities of gender identity and sexual orientation. They tackle vital questions like how many genders exist and the biological underpinnings of sexual orientation. Fascinating discussions include queer behavior in animals, the detrimental effects of conversion therapy, and the importance of hormone replacement therapy for gender dysphoria. Pfau advocates for understanding gender as a spectrum and the significance of community support, making complex ideas accessible and engaging.

Listen to Ambystomologist Dr. Jessica Whited of Harvard discuss axolotls, their limb regeneration abilities, color morphs, pet care ethics, conservation efforts, genetic modification, and the role of axolotls in popular culture like Minecraft. Delve into the fascinating world of axolotls, their unique traits, evolutionary significance, limb regeneration process, genome size comparison, and challenges in a scientific career.

Dr. Charles Grob discusses listener questions on magic mushrooms, LSD, neuroscience, FDA hearings, safe psychedelic consumption, Stoned Ape Theory, and being a good trip sitter. Topics include reality, neurodivergence, avoiding barfing, and following clinical guidelines for a big trip in Oregon.

Renowned psychiatry professor Charles Grob discusses the history and therapeutic potential of psychedelics. Topics include ethnobotanical origins, brain chemistry during trips, who should avoid psychedelics, antidepressants with mushrooms, and future research paths.

Guest Guinevere Chambers, a Disability Sociologist, discusses Disability Pride Month, historical perspective on disability rights, challenges of eugenics, misuse of disability accommodations, invisible illnesses, supporting caregivers, and navigating invisible disabilities.

Field researcher and legit Puffinologist, Jill Taylor, talks about the fascinating world of puffins including their diet, life expectancy, and mating habits. They explore puffin behavior, rescue efforts, and conservation, touching on topics like puffin colonies, UV vision, and the controversial taste of puffin meat. The conversation ends with a look at the obsession and adorableness of puffins in popular culture and the challenges of studying them in the wild.

Alie Ward, a science communicator, discusses her career journey, building Ologies podcast, importance of adult SciComm, fear killing curiosity, and tips for aspiring communicators. Topics include changing beliefs, engaging audiences, and navigating challenges in the field.

Dr. Fhallon Ware-Gilmore, a mosquito expert and Culicidologist at the CDC, dives into solutions for avoiding mosquito bites, the itchiness they cause, safe repellents, climate change impact, potential extinction scenarios, and learning to appreciate mosquitoes. The episode covers mosquito-related topics like genetically modified mosquitoes, preventing mosquito-borne diseases, skepticism about health products, global concerns on vector-borne diseases, and the ecological role of mosquitoes.