

Ologies with Alie Ward
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

7 snips
May 16, 2024 • 18min
Minisode: Some Small/Smol Announcements
In this episode, the host announces a kid-friendly version of the show called Smologies, touching on fascinating nature facts, the benefits of video games for kids, and promoting summer activities. The chapter also reflects on wonder, expressing gratitude, and offering advice on overcoming procrastination.

42 snips
May 8, 2024 • 2h 12min
Genocidology (CRIMES OF ATROCITY) with Dirk Moses
Global expert Dr. Dirk Moses discusses genocide, war crimes, and humanitarian law. The episode delves into the complexities of defining genocide, the evolution of international laws, challenges in proving and prosecuting genocide, patterns of violence in colonized societies, and preventive measures. The conversation also explores racialization, securitization in conflicts, genocide discourse, conflict resolution, and navigating misinformation in news media.

May 6, 2024 • 25min
Smologies #43: CICADAS with Gene Kritsky
Cicada expert Gene Kritsky delves into the fascinating world of cicadas, discussing their yearly vs. periodical cycles, survival tactics underground, mating rituals, and the loudness of their songs. Learn about their timekeeping abilities, evolution, and how to engage with them through photography. Get ready for the upcoming cicada emergence this spring in 18 states!

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.

11 snips
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?

63 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.


