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.
What this show covers
psychologyanimal behaviorrelationshipsperimenopausemenopauseneurosciencefriendshipsciencesocial psychologymarine biologyskunkswomen's healthmental healthbiomusicologypop culture
What listeners will find here
Why horror feels so good to watch, from goosebumps to clowns
Horror neurobiology gets a big, wide-ranging treatment with neuroscientist Dr. Austin Lim. The episode explores why people seek out scary stories and what the brain is doing, while branching into zombies, vampires, body horror, liminal spaces, clowns, and horror’s current cultural moment.
Why laughing together may be one of the strongest relationship tools
Relational psychology gets a lively treatment as Sara Algoe and Laura Kurtz dig into how laughter shapes closeness, support, and long-term wellbeing. The episode connects playful moments, conflict, novelty, and old friendships to what helps relationships last.
Why opals shimmer, crack, travel, and inspire stories across continents
Opals take center stage in a wide-ranging conversation with geophysicist Dr. Patrice Rey about their geology, origins, and cultural resonance. The episode also gets practical about opal care, compares Australian and Ethiopian opals, and follows some surprisingly ancient and unusual opal sightings.
Willows, wonder, and giant stick architecture with Patrick Dougherty
Willows and environmental sculpture take center stage as Patrick Dougherty talks about building massive site-specific works from sustainably sourced saplings. The episode also branches into willow ecology, medicinal uses, bird-nest physics, and the childlike awe that nature can spark.
El Niño, hurricanes, and climate headlines—without the flim-flam
El Niño is the focus here, with Dr. Marshall Shepherd unpacking how Pacific waters shape weather around the world and what that means for hurricane season. The episode also tackles climate-news confusion, shifting weather patterns, and practical ways to stay informed without spiraling.
Episodes
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