Ologies with Alie Ward
Alie Ward
SummaryWhat if you could grab a drink with the world’s leading experts and pick their brains about literally everything? That is the essence of Ologies with Alie Ward. Each episode functions as a masterclass in curiosity, where Alie sits down with professional "ologists" to pull back the curtain on the obscure, the scientific, and the downright fascinating corners of our world. Whether she is breaking down the evolutionary mystery of why we find music so moving, investigating the physiological changes that happen in a new father’s brain, or uncovering why societies collapse, the show makes complex academic subjects feel like a chat with a witty friend. You will find yourself toggling between the deeply technical—like the chemistry of low-intervention winemaking or the biological symbiosis of coral reefs—and the deeply human, such as the psychology of awe and the creative processes of musicians. The format is signature Alie: equal parts rigorous research and infectious enthusiasm. By asking the questions you didn't even know you had, she transforms dense topics into accessible, joyful, and often hilarious explorations. It is a show for the lifelong learner who believes that everything is interesting if you look at it closely enough. If you have ever wanted to understand the "why" behind human nature, the natural world, or our cultural habits, Ologies is your new favorite rabbit hole.
Updated Jul 8, 2026
Episodes
Capsicumology (CHILE PEPPERS) with Paul Bosland
Explore the science, history, and scorching genetics of chili peppers with the world-renowned Chili Man.
Collapsology (SOCIETAL COLLAPSE, LOL!) with Joseph Tainter
Anthropologist Joseph Tainter explains why societies grow in complexity to solve problems until returns inevitably dwindle.
BONUS EPISODE Creating Music with Jarrett Sleeper and David Bashwiner
Explore the mysterious origins of creativity, musical inspiration, and the science of how we compose sound.
Biomusicology (OUR MUSICAL NATURE) with David Bashwiner
Discover the science behind our species' obsession with rhythm and song, from primate roots to musical evolution.
Cnidariology (CORAL) Encore with Shayle Matsuda
Discover how coral colonies function as complex, climate-resilient animal ecosystems teeming with microscopic life.
Paternology (FATHERHOOD) with Darby Saxbe
Explore the science of fatherhood, from hormonal shifts and brain changes to the evolving roles of modern dads.
Awe Psychology (WONDER) with Dacher Keltner
Explore how a daily dose of wonder and the science of awe can quiet your ego, curb loneliness, and transform your life.
Enology Part 2 (HOW TO MAKE WINE) with Tara Gomez & Mireia Taribó
Learn the art and science of winemaking from an indie duo behind natural, low-intervention wines.
Enology Methodology (HOW TO DRINK WINE) with André Hueston Mack
Learn to demystify wine labels, master food pairings, and confidently navigate a wine list with sommelier André Mack.
Enology Part 1 (HOW TO DRINK WINE) with André Hueston Mack
Master the art of drinking wine as a world-renowned sommelier demystifies labels, swirling, decanting, and pairings.
Special Episode: Wall to Wall Secrets, Sorry!
Unplug from the daily grind for an unedited, cozy chat filled with random secrets, life hacks, and candid stories.
Meleagrology (TURKEYS) with Cyler Conrad
Discover the surprising evolutionary history, domestication, and complex cultural status of North America's giant birds.
Antarcticology (ANTARCTIC RESEARCH) with Ariel Waldman
Explore the frozen continent through the lens of a researcher studying the resilient micro-animals surviving in ice.
Dolorology (PAIN) Encore with Rachel Zoffness
Pain is more than just physical damage; learn how your brain, biology, and environment all create the sensation.
Cannabinology (MARIJUANA) Part 2 with Ziva Cooper and Caroline Melly
Explore the science of cannabis administration, cardiovascular risks, mental health impacts, and systemic stigma.
Cannabinology (MARIJUANA) Part 1 with Ziva Cooper and Caroline Melly
Explore the science, history, and social stigmas of cannabis through the lens of neurology and anthropology.
Coloproctology (COLON CANCER + BUTT FUN) with Carmen Fong
Colorectal surgeon Dr. Carmen Fong demystifies hemorrhoids, butt plugs, constipation, and colon health for everyone.
Quantum Ontology (WHAT IS REAL?) Encore with Adam Becker
Explore the fundamental nature of reality, quantum wave functions, and the measurement problem with Adam Becker.
Zoohoplology (ANIMAL DEFENSES) with Ted Stankowich
Explore the evolutionary strategies and biological building blocks animals use to stay safe, from armor to stinks.
Venereology (SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS) with Ina Park
Break down the facts and dispel the stigma surrounding STIs with expert venereologist Dr. Ina Park.
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