Alie Ward
đŸ‘¤ PersonPodcast Appearances
Oh, hey, it's the new leaf on your what you thought was a dying houseplant. Allie Ward, this is Ologies. We're going to get real about sociology. It's everywhere humans are, including in your television. And by that, I mean probably your laptop in bed or your phone on the toilet. Now, reality TV sociology, it's a real thing.
Oh, hey, it's the new leaf on your what you thought was a dying houseplant. Allie Ward, this is Ologies. We're going to get real about sociology. It's everywhere humans are, including in your television. And by that, I mean probably your laptop in bed or your phone on the toilet. Now, reality TV sociology, it's a real thing.
Oh, hey, it's the new leaf on your what you thought was a dying houseplant. Allie Ward, this is Ologies. We're going to get real about sociology. It's everywhere humans are, including in your television. And by that, I mean probably your laptop in bed or your phone on the toilet. Now, reality TV sociology, it's a real thing.
You know, you mentioned the real world and I watched the real world when it came out when I was in high school and it was revolutionary to be like, wait, we're just in these people's house. They're just being themselves in their houses. This one got in a fight. What is going on? Are they going to kiss? These are real people. And Survivor, I feel like was a really big,
You know, you mentioned the real world and I watched the real world when it came out when I was in high school and it was revolutionary to be like, wait, we're just in these people's house. They're just being themselves in their houses. This one got in a fight. What is going on? Are they going to kiss? These are real people. And Survivor, I feel like was a really big,
You know, you mentioned the real world and I watched the real world when it came out when I was in high school and it was revolutionary to be like, wait, we're just in these people's house. They're just being themselves in their houses. This one got in a fight. What is going on? Are they going to kiss? These are real people. And Survivor, I feel like was a really big,
moment for competitive TV, for competition-based television? Did they wire younger brains to be like, I really am more drawn towards seeing actual emotions, you know?
moment for competitive TV, for competition-based television? Did they wire younger brains to be like, I really am more drawn towards seeing actual emotions, you know?
moment for competitive TV, for competition-based television? Did they wire younger brains to be like, I really am more drawn towards seeing actual emotions, you know?
Okay, let's go back in time now. Although Gen Alpha may not know, the road to reality has been paved with classics like the panoptic iconic Big Brother and the delicate balance of being wealthy and attractive but upset at the same time. When it comes to Real Housewives, tell me why that has a spot in your heart. And is it only certain areas?
Okay, let's go back in time now. Although Gen Alpha may not know, the road to reality has been paved with classics like the panoptic iconic Big Brother and the delicate balance of being wealthy and attractive but upset at the same time. When it comes to Real Housewives, tell me why that has a spot in your heart. And is it only certain areas?
Okay, let's go back in time now. Although Gen Alpha may not know, the road to reality has been paved with classics like the panoptic iconic Big Brother and the delicate balance of being wealthy and attractive but upset at the same time. When it comes to Real Housewives, tell me why that has a spot in your heart. And is it only certain areas?
Are there certain cities that are more attractive to you? Or what do you love about it?
Are there certain cities that are more attractive to you? Or what do you love about it?
Are there certain cities that are more attractive to you? Or what do you love about it?
What is real in reality TV? Who signs up to be on reality TV? What effect could it have on young brains? Primetime catfights, class warfare, passive aggression.
What is real in reality TV? Who signs up to be on reality TV? What effect could it have on young brains? Primetime catfights, class warfare, passive aggression.
What is real in reality TV? Who signs up to be on reality TV? What effect could it have on young brains? Primetime catfights, class warfare, passive aggression.
You know, the term brain rot is, I feel like, something that we use where we just need to turn our brains off from thinking about something that is too terrible. I'm wondering how much human brains are actually capable of taking in the horrors of the world on a global scale from an anthropological standpoint.
You know, the term brain rot is, I feel like, something that we use where we just need to turn our brains off from thinking about something that is too terrible. I'm wondering how much human brains are actually capable of taking in the horrors of the world on a global scale from an anthropological standpoint.
You know, the term brain rot is, I feel like, something that we use where we just need to turn our brains off from thinking about something that is too terrible. I'm wondering how much human brains are actually capable of taking in the horrors of the world on a global scale from an anthropological standpoint.
And if there is some need, as we learn more and more about what's happening globally with suffering, global warming, if we... are more drawn towards something that's low stakes. Do you feel like reality TV is doing something to our brains where it's a respite?
And if there is some need, as we learn more and more about what's happening globally with suffering, global warming, if we... are more drawn towards something that's low stakes. Do you feel like reality TV is doing something to our brains where it's a respite?
And if there is some need, as we learn more and more about what's happening globally with suffering, global warming, if we... are more drawn towards something that's low stakes. Do you feel like reality TV is doing something to our brains where it's a respite?
And for decades, scholars wondered about the causes and effects of reality shows. There was this one 2001 paper. It's now vintage, I suppose. Psychological escapism, predicting the amount of television viewing by need for cognition in the journal Communication.
And for decades, scholars wondered about the causes and effects of reality shows. There was this one 2001 paper. It's now vintage, I suppose. Psychological escapism, predicting the amount of television viewing by need for cognition in the journal Communication.
And for decades, scholars wondered about the causes and effects of reality shows. There was this one 2001 paper. It's now vintage, I suppose. Psychological escapism, predicting the amount of television viewing by need for cognition in the journal Communication.
And it found that if a person's need to think is lower, they feel less pleasant when they have nothing to do because there's nothing left to do but think. And the easiest way for individuals to escape this pressure to think is by watching TV.
And it found that if a person's need to think is lower, they feel less pleasant when they have nothing to do because there's nothing left to do but think. And the easiest way for individuals to escape this pressure to think is by watching TV.
And it found that if a person's need to think is lower, they feel less pleasant when they have nothing to do because there's nothing left to do but think. And the easiest way for individuals to escape this pressure to think is by watching TV.
what reality can teach us about ourselves, eating hamburgers with a camera in your face, good examples, bad examples, race, wealth, and so much more with sociologist, author, professor, and straight-up professional reality TV sociologist, Dr. Danielle Lineman. So many people were like, get her on now. And I was like, I didn't know this was an ology. My name is Danielle Lindeman. She, her, hers.
what reality can teach us about ourselves, eating hamburgers with a camera in your face, good examples, bad examples, race, wealth, and so much more with sociologist, author, professor, and straight-up professional reality TV sociologist, Dr. Danielle Lineman. So many people were like, get her on now. And I was like, I didn't know this was an ology. My name is Danielle Lindeman. She, her, hers.
what reality can teach us about ourselves, eating hamburgers with a camera in your face, good examples, bad examples, race, wealth, and so much more with sociologist, author, professor, and straight-up professional reality TV sociologist, Dr. Danielle Lineman. So many people were like, get her on now. And I was like, I didn't know this was an ology. My name is Danielle Lindeman. She, her, hers.
So if we're wondering why we sit and scroll for hours looking at videos of people we will never meet who are blending their contour or sharpening a camping hatchet or demoing their guest bathroom, that might be why. In tough times. No think he feels good. But can reality TV as a construct deliver that anymore?
So if we're wondering why we sit and scroll for hours looking at videos of people we will never meet who are blending their contour or sharpening a camping hatchet or demoing their guest bathroom, that might be why. In tough times. No think he feels good. But can reality TV as a construct deliver that anymore?
So if we're wondering why we sit and scroll for hours looking at videos of people we will never meet who are blending their contour or sharpening a camping hatchet or demoing their guest bathroom, that might be why. In tough times. No think he feels good. But can reality TV as a construct deliver that anymore?
There was this one New York Times critic who called reality shows, quote, a theater of cruelty, citing that the casualties of these onscreen conflicts are too real with reality TV personalities dying by suicide and suffering other stark readjustments to their new life under scrutiny. So now that we know the behind the scenes, reality TV might be too dark to lean on for escapism.
There was this one New York Times critic who called reality shows, quote, a theater of cruelty, citing that the casualties of these onscreen conflicts are too real with reality TV personalities dying by suicide and suffering other stark readjustments to their new life under scrutiny. So now that we know the behind the scenes, reality TV might be too dark to lean on for escapism.
There was this one New York Times critic who called reality shows, quote, a theater of cruelty, citing that the casualties of these onscreen conflicts are too real with reality TV personalities dying by suicide and suffering other stark readjustments to their new life under scrutiny. So now that we know the behind the scenes, reality TV might be too dark to lean on for escapism.
Or maybe as a culture, we're just getting more mean. What are some things that you feel like your students or you have learned about human interactions and human dynamics? Has it changed any of the ways that you interact with people in your life or the way that your students interact? Do you end up learning how to be a person or how not to be a person from hours of watching?
Or maybe as a culture, we're just getting more mean. What are some things that you feel like your students or you have learned about human interactions and human dynamics? Has it changed any of the ways that you interact with people in your life or the way that your students interact? Do you end up learning how to be a person or how not to be a person from hours of watching?
Or maybe as a culture, we're just getting more mean. What are some things that you feel like your students or you have learned about human interactions and human dynamics? Has it changed any of the ways that you interact with people in your life or the way that your students interact? Do you end up learning how to be a person or how not to be a person from hours of watching?
You know, I've always wondered, too, I grew up watching Discovery Channel. I loved, like, nature documentaries and animal documentaries. And then as time went on, it became, like, Pawn Stars or, like, Ice Road Truckers. It became a lot of Blue Collar Hero. And... Is there something economic there where it's cheaper to make the shows or the demographic tends to want to see themselves reflected?
You know, I've always wondered, too, I grew up watching Discovery Channel. I loved, like, nature documentaries and animal documentaries. And then as time went on, it became, like, Pawn Stars or, like, Ice Road Truckers. It became a lot of Blue Collar Hero. And... Is there something economic there where it's cheaper to make the shows or the demographic tends to want to see themselves reflected?
You know, I've always wondered, too, I grew up watching Discovery Channel. I loved, like, nature documentaries and animal documentaries. And then as time went on, it became, like, Pawn Stars or, like, Ice Road Truckers. It became a lot of Blue Collar Hero. And... Is there something economic there where it's cheaper to make the shows or the demographic tends to want to see themselves reflected?
Do we know why some media has kind of turned over to reality TV type of shows that are more people-based than maybe nature-based?
Do we know why some media has kind of turned over to reality TV type of shows that are more people-based than maybe nature-based?
Do we know why some media has kind of turned over to reality TV type of shows that are more people-based than maybe nature-based?
Alec Baldwin and Hilaria's new show with their seven kids, that's on TLC. Now, one 2021 paper in the journal Media and Communication is titled, quote, Here come my 600 pound quintuplets, a discussion of reality television as a freak discourse.
Alec Baldwin and Hilaria's new show with their seven kids, that's on TLC. Now, one 2021 paper in the journal Media and Communication is titled, quote, Here come my 600 pound quintuplets, a discussion of reality television as a freak discourse.
Alec Baldwin and Hilaria's new show with their seven kids, that's on TLC. Now, one 2021 paper in the journal Media and Communication is titled, quote, Here come my 600 pound quintuplets, a discussion of reality television as a freak discourse.
which explains that from gorgons and mermaids to bearded ladies and elephant men, people have for centuries been fascinated by those who deviate from physical and mental social norms. However, as science and medicine progressed and the protection of human rights became more important, freak shows and traveling side shows dwindled.
which explains that from gorgons and mermaids to bearded ladies and elephant men, people have for centuries been fascinated by those who deviate from physical and mental social norms. However, as science and medicine progressed and the protection of human rights became more important, freak shows and traveling side shows dwindled.
which explains that from gorgons and mermaids to bearded ladies and elephant men, people have for centuries been fascinated by those who deviate from physical and mental social norms. However, as science and medicine progressed and the protection of human rights became more important, freak shows and traveling side shows dwindled.
The article looks at how reality television programming as a genre uses a narrative formula that can be likened to 19th century freak shows to enhance its storylines and produce a human spectacle. Wow. But why?
The article looks at how reality television programming as a genre uses a narrative formula that can be likened to 19th century freak shows to enhance its storylines and produce a human spectacle. Wow. But why?
The article looks at how reality television programming as a genre uses a narrative formula that can be likened to 19th century freak shows to enhance its storylines and produce a human spectacle. Wow. But why?
So yeah, like a drive-thru on a road trip, it's cheap and it's easy. And unlike trained actors with SAG and AFTRA union protections, the documentary nature of reality means longer shoot days, no overtime penalties or missed or late meal penalties, no mandatory eight-hour turnaround between shoots to sleep. And we covered the importance of unionizing the labor force.
So yeah, like a drive-thru on a road trip, it's cheap and it's easy. And unlike trained actors with SAG and AFTRA union protections, the documentary nature of reality means longer shoot days, no overtime penalties or missed or late meal penalties, no mandatory eight-hour turnaround between shoots to sleep. And we covered the importance of unionizing the labor force.
So yeah, like a drive-thru on a road trip, it's cheap and it's easy. And unlike trained actors with SAG and AFTRA union protections, the documentary nature of reality means longer shoot days, no overtime penalties or missed or late meal penalties, no mandatory eight-hour turnaround between shoots to sleep. And we covered the importance of unionizing the labor force.
with a ton of great history in the entertainment industry in a field trip episode from the wga strike during which we talk about how the literal richest company on earth exploits union loopholes to pay its crew low budget film rates and we'll link that episode in the show notes but even 10 20 years ago this was well established in the industry as detailed in this paper titled reality tv's low wage and no wage workforce
with a ton of great history in the entertainment industry in a field trip episode from the wga strike during which we talk about how the literal richest company on earth exploits union loopholes to pay its crew low budget film rates and we'll link that episode in the show notes but even 10 20 years ago this was well established in the industry as detailed in this paper titled reality tv's low wage and no wage workforce
with a ton of great history in the entertainment industry in a field trip episode from the wga strike during which we talk about how the literal richest company on earth exploits union loopholes to pay its crew low budget film rates and we'll link that episode in the show notes but even 10 20 years ago this was well established in the industry as detailed in this paper titled reality tv's low wage and no wage workforce
which covers how reality TV's classification as non-scripted programming lets the studios exploit this non-unionized workforce and how duping someone into being a contestant on a show means you don't have to pay for the participation. It's a gamble for contestants, but the house always wins. Speaking of wealth and houses, how do you feel as someone who loves The Real Housewives?
which covers how reality TV's classification as non-scripted programming lets the studios exploit this non-unionized workforce and how duping someone into being a contestant on a show means you don't have to pay for the participation. It's a gamble for contestants, but the house always wins. Speaking of wealth and houses, how do you feel as someone who loves The Real Housewives?
which covers how reality TV's classification as non-scripted programming lets the studios exploit this non-unionized workforce and how duping someone into being a contestant on a show means you don't have to pay for the participation. It's a gamble for contestants, but the house always wins. Speaking of wealth and houses, how do you feel as someone who loves The Real Housewives?
How do you feel about the title?
How do you feel about the title?
How do you feel about the title?
When it comes to what you study for reality TV, do you dip into things like YouTube and TikTok? Or where is the line for you educationally where you're focusing on this medium, but not this one?
When it comes to what you study for reality TV, do you dip into things like YouTube and TikTok? Or where is the line for you educationally where you're focusing on this medium, but not this one?
When it comes to what you study for reality TV, do you dip into things like YouTube and TikTok? Or where is the line for you educationally where you're focusing on this medium, but not this one?
Can I launch into some questions from listeners? For sure. Okay. I'm just going to get into it because they have so many good ones. But before we do, let's highlight and donate to a charity.
Can I launch into some questions from listeners? For sure. Okay. I'm just going to get into it because they have so many good ones. But before we do, let's highlight and donate to a charity.
Can I launch into some questions from listeners? For sure. Okay. I'm just going to get into it because they have so many good ones. But before we do, let's highlight and donate to a charity.
Great. Reality TV. Did you start off watching it or did you start out so interested in sociology that you realized this was like the perfect cauldron of places to find interesting things about humanity?
Great. Reality TV. Did you start off watching it or did you start out so interested in sociology that you realized this was like the perfect cauldron of places to find interesting things about humanity?
Great. Reality TV. Did you start off watching it or did you start out so interested in sociology that you realized this was like the perfect cauldron of places to find interesting things about humanity?
And this week, it's going to the Pedro Zamora Scholarship via AIDSMemorial.com, which is dedicated to continuing the legacy of the late AIDS educator and health and social justice activist Pedro Zamora by awarding $5,000 scholarships to those making a difference in the fight against HIV-AIDS and or advancing public and reproductive health, racial, environmental, and immigration justice, and more.
And this week, it's going to the Pedro Zamora Scholarship via AIDSMemorial.com, which is dedicated to continuing the legacy of the late AIDS educator and health and social justice activist Pedro Zamora by awarding $5,000 scholarships to those making a difference in the fight against HIV-AIDS and or advancing public and reproductive health, racial, environmental, and immigration justice, and more.
And this week, it's going to the Pedro Zamora Scholarship via AIDSMemorial.com, which is dedicated to continuing the legacy of the late AIDS educator and health and social justice activist Pedro Zamora by awarding $5,000 scholarships to those making a difference in the fight against HIV-AIDS and or advancing public and reproductive health, racial, environmental, and immigration justice, and more.
So for more on those scholarships or to donate, you can see the link in the show notes, which will take you to the AIDSmemorial.org's page about it. Thank you to sponsors of the show for making these donations possible. Okay, on to your questions sent in by the patrons via patreon.com slash ologies.
So for more on those scholarships or to donate, you can see the link in the show notes, which will take you to the AIDSmemorial.org's page about it. Thank you to sponsors of the show for making these donations possible. Okay, on to your questions sent in by the patrons via patreon.com slash ologies.
So for more on those scholarships or to donate, you can see the link in the show notes, which will take you to the AIDSmemorial.org's page about it. Thank you to sponsors of the show for making these donations possible. Okay, on to your questions sent in by the patrons via patreon.com slash ologies.
First one comes from Oliver Callis, Sarah Manns, and Darren Bush, who noted that in working with primates in grad school, Darren said, when there's a physical conflict, every monkey watches with interest. Maybe we're wired to be voyeurs, Darren said, as well as...
First one comes from Oliver Callis, Sarah Manns, and Darren Bush, who noted that in working with primates in grad school, Darren said, when there's a physical conflict, every monkey watches with interest. Maybe we're wired to be voyeurs, Darren said, as well as...
First one comes from Oliver Callis, Sarah Manns, and Darren Bush, who noted that in working with primates in grad school, Darren said, when there's a physical conflict, every monkey watches with interest. Maybe we're wired to be voyeurs, Darren said, as well as...
And as proof, we're going to meet a professor of sociology at Lehigh University, who is part of the core faculty of women, gender and sexuality studies, who's also an author of the books, Dominatrix, Gender, Eroticism and Control in the Dungeon. and her highly lauded 2022 release, True Story, What Reality TV Says About Us.
And as proof, we're going to meet a professor of sociology at Lehigh University, who is part of the core faculty of women, gender and sexuality studies, who's also an author of the books, Dominatrix, Gender, Eroticism and Control in the Dungeon. and her highly lauded 2022 release, True Story, What Reality TV Says About Us.
And as proof, we're going to meet a professor of sociology at Lehigh University, who is part of the core faculty of women, gender and sexuality studies, who's also an author of the books, Dominatrix, Gender, Eroticism and Control in the Dungeon. and her highly lauded 2022 release, True Story, What Reality TV Says About Us.
Patron The Lady is a Geek asked, rather than these shows reflecting the reality of courtship, how much do they shift expectations to something unrealistic? Reality TV seems to romance what porn is to sex, The Lady is a Geek said. It reminds me of that definition of pornography or obscenity where I can't define it, but I know when I see it.
Patron The Lady is a Geek asked, rather than these shows reflecting the reality of courtship, how much do they shift expectations to something unrealistic? Reality TV seems to romance what porn is to sex, The Lady is a Geek said. It reminds me of that definition of pornography or obscenity where I can't define it, but I know when I see it.
Patron The Lady is a Geek asked, rather than these shows reflecting the reality of courtship, how much do they shift expectations to something unrealistic? Reality TV seems to romance what porn is to sex, The Lady is a Geek said. It reminds me of that definition of pornography or obscenity where I can't define it, but I know when I see it.
Right. Also, I understand that in House Hunters and House Hunters International and all of the franchise that they absolutely already bought the house before they shot it.
Right. Also, I understand that in House Hunters and House Hunters International and all of the franchise that they absolutely already bought the house before they shot it.
Right. Also, I understand that in House Hunters and House Hunters International and all of the franchise that they absolutely already bought the house before they shot it.
Yeah, no, sorry, everyone. On those house hunting shows, they usually already bought the house. And according to many publications, like House Beautiful's article, here's the shocking truth about HGTV's house hunters. Usually, you're watching someone who already purchased a place tour their own empty home.
Yeah, no, sorry, everyone. On those house hunting shows, they usually already bought the house. And according to many publications, like House Beautiful's article, here's the shocking truth about HGTV's house hunters. Usually, you're watching someone who already purchased a place tour their own empty home.
Yeah, no, sorry, everyone. On those house hunting shows, they usually already bought the house. And according to many publications, like House Beautiful's article, here's the shocking truth about HGTV's house hunters. Usually, you're watching someone who already purchased a place tour their own empty home.
And then the producers find a few other places to tour, like according to reports from people who have been on the show, they might be filmed in walking through an Airbnb or even a friend's house, places that are sometimes not even on the market, as if they were considering living and dying in it. Now, filming can take place over a few days and you might get paid like 500 bucks to do it.
And then the producers find a few other places to tour, like according to reports from people who have been on the show, they might be filmed in walking through an Airbnb or even a friend's house, places that are sometimes not even on the market, as if they were considering living and dying in it. Now, filming can take place over a few days and you might get paid like 500 bucks to do it.
And then the producers find a few other places to tour, like according to reports from people who have been on the show, they might be filmed in walking through an Airbnb or even a friend's house, places that are sometimes not even on the market, as if they were considering living and dying in it. Now, filming can take place over a few days and you might get paid like 500 bucks to do it.
But for like Lynn and Gary looking for a Myrtle Beach summer house, I guess the clout in the cash like isn't bad for people who are not classically trained thespians. But then is that acting if someone's like, I don't know, Roger, I really don't want to live this close to the freeway. Is that acting? Are they playing themselves?
But for like Lynn and Gary looking for a Myrtle Beach summer house, I guess the clout in the cash like isn't bad for people who are not classically trained thespians. But then is that acting if someone's like, I don't know, Roger, I really don't want to live this close to the freeway. Is that acting? Are they playing themselves?
But for like Lynn and Gary looking for a Myrtle Beach summer house, I guess the clout in the cash like isn't bad for people who are not classically trained thespians. But then is that acting if someone's like, I don't know, Roger, I really don't want to live this close to the freeway. Is that acting? Are they playing themselves?
Well, this was on the minds of a lot of listeners. Jamie Hanna asked, reality TVs often make me think of the Stanford prison experiment, which is really interesting because so many of these questions are about ethics. Does a person's behavior change while in an extreme situation? Ali Lopez, first time question asker, asked the same thing.
Well, this was on the minds of a lot of listeners. Jamie Hanna asked, reality TVs often make me think of the Stanford prison experiment, which is really interesting because so many of these questions are about ethics. Does a person's behavior change while in an extreme situation? Ali Lopez, first time question asker, asked the same thing.
Well, this was on the minds of a lot of listeners. Jamie Hanna asked, reality TVs often make me think of the Stanford prison experiment, which is really interesting because so many of these questions are about ethics. Does a person's behavior change while in an extreme situation? Ali Lopez, first time question asker, asked the same thing.
Curious how the presence of the camera in and of itself influences, amplifies, changes how people on reality TV act versus how they would have handled similar situations while not on display. So, Does the presence of the camera change the reality of it? And how would we know?
Curious how the presence of the camera in and of itself influences, amplifies, changes how people on reality TV act versus how they would have handled similar situations while not on display. So, Does the presence of the camera change the reality of it? And how would we know?
Curious how the presence of the camera in and of itself influences, amplifies, changes how people on reality TV act versus how they would have handled similar situations while not on display. So, Does the presence of the camera change the reality of it? And how would we know?
When it comes to cash prizes, how does that influence the way... that a show is shot or the outcome. Like Jamie Hanna wanted to know, can you discuss coercion and cash prizes? I'm thinking of someone like Alone who has a half a million dollar cash prize.
When it comes to cash prizes, how does that influence the way... that a show is shot or the outcome. Like Jamie Hanna wanted to know, can you discuss coercion and cash prizes? I'm thinking of someone like Alone who has a half a million dollar cash prize.
When it comes to cash prizes, how does that influence the way... that a show is shot or the outcome. Like Jamie Hanna wanted to know, can you discuss coercion and cash prizes? I'm thinking of someone like Alone who has a half a million dollar cash prize.
The year was 1992 and the network was MTV. A camera crew composed the first shots of a media revolution.
The year was 1992 and the network was MTV. A camera crew composed the first shots of a media revolution.
The year was 1992 and the network was MTV. A camera crew composed the first shots of a media revolution.
When Constantini says, I've noticed that reality TV shows have a really different vibe when there is or is not a cash prize, like the Great British Bake Off versus those crazy stressful Food Network shows. And I remember seeing some meme about how like... The Great British Bake Off is like, well, it's quite good for a fondant, but you could use some work.
When Constantini says, I've noticed that reality TV shows have a really different vibe when there is or is not a cash prize, like the Great British Bake Off versus those crazy stressful Food Network shows. And I remember seeing some meme about how like... The Great British Bake Off is like, well, it's quite good for a fondant, but you could use some work.
When Constantini says, I've noticed that reality TV shows have a really different vibe when there is or is not a cash prize, like the Great British Bake Off versus those crazy stressful Food Network shows. And I remember seeing some meme about how like... The Great British Bake Off is like, well, it's quite good for a fondant, but you could use some work.
And then American cooking shows are like, I need to win this or my child doesn't get cancer care, you know? Yeah. What is the difference there when cash is involved? Patrons Lisa Kahn, Scott Sheldon, Lily B, Brittany Corrigan, Jesse all asked in Lisa's dismayed words, why are American reality shows so awful and cruel?
And then American cooking shows are like, I need to win this or my child doesn't get cancer care, you know? Yeah. What is the difference there when cash is involved? Patrons Lisa Kahn, Scott Sheldon, Lily B, Brittany Corrigan, Jesse all asked in Lisa's dismayed words, why are American reality shows so awful and cruel?
And then American cooking shows are like, I need to win this or my child doesn't get cancer care, you know? Yeah. What is the difference there when cash is involved? Patrons Lisa Kahn, Scott Sheldon, Lily B, Brittany Corrigan, Jesse all asked in Lisa's dismayed words, why are American reality shows so awful and cruel?
Great British Bake Off has proven that watching lovely people be kind and wonderful to each other is popular, Jesse says. So is it the lack of safety nets and the fear of getting like a stress-induced disease that will bankrupt you? Is that what drives American reality TV to be a gladiatorial sport? Like what's happening?
Great British Bake Off has proven that watching lovely people be kind and wonderful to each other is popular, Jesse says. So is it the lack of safety nets and the fear of getting like a stress-induced disease that will bankrupt you? Is that what drives American reality TV to be a gladiatorial sport? Like what's happening?
Great British Bake Off has proven that watching lovely people be kind and wonderful to each other is popular, Jesse says. So is it the lack of safety nets and the fear of getting like a stress-induced disease that will bankrupt you? Is that what drives American reality TV to be a gladiatorial sport? Like what's happening?
Oh, yeah.
Oh, yeah.
Oh, yeah.
Yeah, I think the dynamics do change. Even if there's not a cash prize, you might end up as a co-host on The View. You might have your own hosting gig on E! News. And so there is always that promise, perhaps, of using that to make a career and make some wealth, especially if you're not from a wealthy background.
Yeah, I think the dynamics do change. Even if there's not a cash prize, you might end up as a co-host on The View. You might have your own hosting gig on E! News. And so there is always that promise, perhaps, of using that to make a career and make some wealth, especially if you're not from a wealthy background.
Yeah, I think the dynamics do change. Even if there's not a cash prize, you might end up as a co-host on The View. You might have your own hosting gig on E! News. And so there is always that promise, perhaps, of using that to make a career and make some wealth, especially if you're not from a wealthy background.
And a lot of people wanted to know why. As much as we like to watch reality TV, It's a real small percentage of people that would be like, sign me up for it, right? Because it could be so brutal psychologically to see yourself portrayed or just you might get your heart broken or you might have to eat a deer penis, depending on what the show is. You have a real bad gag reflex. Is that true?
And a lot of people wanted to know why. As much as we like to watch reality TV, It's a real small percentage of people that would be like, sign me up for it, right? Because it could be so brutal psychologically to see yourself portrayed or just you might get your heart broken or you might have to eat a deer penis, depending on what the show is. You have a real bad gag reflex. Is that true?
And a lot of people wanted to know why. As much as we like to watch reality TV, It's a real small percentage of people that would be like, sign me up for it, right? Because it could be so brutal psychologically to see yourself portrayed or just you might get your heart broken or you might have to eat a deer penis, depending on what the show is. You have a real bad gag reflex. Is that true?
Yeah, when I have too much toothpaste in my mouth, I gag. How are you going to get through a buffalo penis? I can do this because this is $50,000.
Yeah, when I have too much toothpaste in my mouth, I gag. How are you going to get through a buffalo penis? I can do this because this is $50,000.
Yeah, when I have too much toothpaste in my mouth, I gag. How are you going to get through a buffalo penis? I can do this because this is $50,000.
Side note, if you're like, the host who's barking at a woman to deep throat a bull penis sounds familiar. Yes. He's now America's chief cultural arbiter, Joseph Rogan. And his previous job did involve gulping picnics. But on the less juicy side of the mic... Who does that is a great question.
Side note, if you're like, the host who's barking at a woman to deep throat a bull penis sounds familiar. Yes. He's now America's chief cultural arbiter, Joseph Rogan. And his previous job did involve gulping picnics. But on the less juicy side of the mic... Who does that is a great question.
Side note, if you're like, the host who's barking at a woman to deep throat a bull penis sounds familiar. Yes. He's now America's chief cultural arbiter, Joseph Rogan. And his previous job did involve gulping picnics. But on the less juicy side of the mic... Who does that is a great question.
Asked by Angelica Stanley, Ally B, Hope J, Renee Wagner, Alia Myers, Rachel Nelson, who was almost cast on Dance Moms, but her mother was too emotionally stable, Cooper Michael, and... Cuck Simber, first time question asker, asked, I get why we love to watch it, but why do people want to be on it? That was Lee, first time question asker.
Asked by Angelica Stanley, Ally B, Hope J, Renee Wagner, Alia Myers, Rachel Nelson, who was almost cast on Dance Moms, but her mother was too emotionally stable, Cooper Michael, and... Cuck Simber, first time question asker, asked, I get why we love to watch it, but why do people want to be on it? That was Lee, first time question asker.
Asked by Angelica Stanley, Ally B, Hope J, Renee Wagner, Alia Myers, Rachel Nelson, who was almost cast on Dance Moms, but her mother was too emotionally stable, Cooper Michael, and... Cuck Simber, first time question asker, asked, I get why we love to watch it, but why do people want to be on it? That was Lee, first time question asker.
And Annabelle wants to know if there are studies of people who decide to be on a reality show, like what types of people get cast in it and what are they looking for?
And Annabelle wants to know if there are studies of people who decide to be on a reality show, like what types of people get cast in it and what are they looking for?
And Annabelle wants to know if there are studies of people who decide to be on a reality show, like what types of people get cast in it and what are they looking for?
Yeah. Okay, but who does gravitate? Of course there are studies, such as this 2016 paper from the journal Current Psychology titled The Dark Triad Traits and Fame Interest. Do dark personalities desire stardom?
Yeah. Okay, but who does gravitate? Of course there are studies, such as this 2016 paper from the journal Current Psychology titled The Dark Triad Traits and Fame Interest. Do dark personalities desire stardom?
Yeah. Okay, but who does gravitate? Of course there are studies, such as this 2016 paper from the journal Current Psychology titled The Dark Triad Traits and Fame Interest. Do dark personalities desire stardom?
Which explained that although the fascination with fame is not a new phenomenon, the emergence of YouTube and reality television has led to the perception that fame is something that seemingly anyone can achieve.
Which explained that although the fascination with fame is not a new phenomenon, the emergence of YouTube and reality television has led to the perception that fame is something that seemingly anyone can achieve.
Which explained that although the fascination with fame is not a new phenomenon, the emergence of YouTube and reality television has led to the perception that fame is something that seemingly anyone can achieve.
They write, researchers have examined the characteristics that are associated with the desire for fame and have found that narcissism is one of the most consistent predictors of fame interest. But while psychopathy and narcissism were associated with fame interest, the third dark trait, Machiavellianism, was negatively associated with desiring fame.
They write, researchers have examined the characteristics that are associated with the desire for fame and have found that narcissism is one of the most consistent predictors of fame interest. But while psychopathy and narcissism were associated with fame interest, the third dark trait, Machiavellianism, was negatively associated with desiring fame.
They write, researchers have examined the characteristics that are associated with the desire for fame and have found that narcissism is one of the most consistent predictors of fame interest. But while psychopathy and narcissism were associated with fame interest, the third dark trait, Machiavellianism, was negatively associated with desiring fame.
It continues that the perceived ease of achieving fame may be motivating large numbers of individuals, especially younger individuals, to strive for celebrity status.
It continues that the perceived ease of achieving fame may be motivating large numbers of individuals, especially younger individuals, to strive for celebrity status.
It continues that the perceived ease of achieving fame may be motivating large numbers of individuals, especially younger individuals, to strive for celebrity status.
And it also cites a 2012 study that found 40% of children between the ages of 10 and 12 reported that becoming famous is their biggest goal in life, with kindness toward others and achievement taking second and third place, respectively. But honestly, in this economy, ugh. I don't know.
And it also cites a 2012 study that found 40% of children between the ages of 10 and 12 reported that becoming famous is their biggest goal in life, with kindness toward others and achievement taking second and third place, respectively. But honestly, in this economy, ugh. I don't know.
And it also cites a 2012 study that found 40% of children between the ages of 10 and 12 reported that becoming famous is their biggest goal in life, with kindness toward others and achievement taking second and third place, respectively. But honestly, in this economy, ugh. I don't know.
Another 2016 paper, Narcissism on the Jersey Shore, Exposure to Narcissistic Reality TV Characters Can Increase Narcissism Levels in Viewers. That one's pretty self-explanatory. And then a 2022 paper in Psychology of Popular Media titled Linking Adolescence Exposure to and Identification with Reality TV to Materialism, Narcissism, and Entitlement reported that
Another 2016 paper, Narcissism on the Jersey Shore, Exposure to Narcissistic Reality TV Characters Can Increase Narcissism Levels in Viewers. That one's pretty self-explanatory. And then a 2022 paper in Psychology of Popular Media titled Linking Adolescence Exposure to and Identification with Reality TV to Materialism, Narcissism, and Entitlement reported that
Another 2016 paper, Narcissism on the Jersey Shore, Exposure to Narcissistic Reality TV Characters Can Increase Narcissism Levels in Viewers. That one's pretty self-explanatory. And then a 2022 paper in Psychology of Popular Media titled Linking Adolescence Exposure to and Identification with Reality TV to Materialism, Narcissism, and Entitlement reported that
Though previous research found a link between adolescents' reality TV viewing and their level of materialism, narcissism, and entitlement, those earlier studies did not stand the test of time because current adolescents had lower traits of narcissism and materialism because, quote, reality TV mainly portrays negative consequences of entitled and narcissistic behavior, causing viewers to refrain from copying this behavior.
Though previous research found a link between adolescents' reality TV viewing and their level of materialism, narcissism, and entitlement, those earlier studies did not stand the test of time because current adolescents had lower traits of narcissism and materialism because, quote, reality TV mainly portrays negative consequences of entitled and narcissistic behavior, causing viewers to refrain from copying this behavior.
Though previous research found a link between adolescents' reality TV viewing and their level of materialism, narcissism, and entitlement, those earlier studies did not stand the test of time because current adolescents had lower traits of narcissism and materialism because, quote, reality TV mainly portrays negative consequences of entitled and narcissistic behavior, causing viewers to refrain from copying this behavior.
So that's good news. You may not have to lose sleep over your child growing up to hit someone with a purse or slamming an empty margarita glass onto a mansion patio. What would you do if your child was on a reality show? I don't know. Ask my mom. I just realized in talking to you that I've been on a reality TV show. What was it?
So that's good news. You may not have to lose sleep over your child growing up to hit someone with a purse or slamming an empty margarita glass onto a mansion patio. What would you do if your child was on a reality show? I don't know. Ask my mom. I just realized in talking to you that I've been on a reality TV show. What was it?
So that's good news. You may not have to lose sleep over your child growing up to hit someone with a purse or slamming an empty margarita glass onto a mansion patio. What would you do if your child was on a reality show? I don't know. Ask my mom. I just realized in talking to you that I've been on a reality TV show. What was it?
Well, I mean, it's not really, but I mean, I had a Food Network show where I went around and ate stuff. Yeah. Why do you say that's not really? I never even thought of it that way. I mean, there is a discomfort for sure of having to perform emotions or having to have an emotion that's interesting enough to be camera worthy.
Well, I mean, it's not really, but I mean, I had a Food Network show where I went around and ate stuff. Yeah. Why do you say that's not really? I never even thought of it that way. I mean, there is a discomfort for sure of having to perform emotions or having to have an emotion that's interesting enough to be camera worthy.
Well, I mean, it's not really, but I mean, I had a Food Network show where I went around and ate stuff. Yeah. Why do you say that's not really? I never even thought of it that way. I mean, there is a discomfort for sure of having to perform emotions or having to have an emotion that's interesting enough to be camera worthy.
So it's interesting for me to delve into it because I wouldn't have considered it reality TV, but it was very much eating hamburgers and stuff on camera for entertainment. So... Yeah, exactly. I'm going to have to go down a whole spiral of being like, what did that serve in my life? I'm really surprised that you've mentioned sleep deprivation. I had never considered that.
So it's interesting for me to delve into it because I wouldn't have considered it reality TV, but it was very much eating hamburgers and stuff on camera for entertainment. So... Yeah, exactly. I'm going to have to go down a whole spiral of being like, what did that serve in my life? I'm really surprised that you've mentioned sleep deprivation. I had never considered that.
So it's interesting for me to delve into it because I wouldn't have considered it reality TV, but it was very much eating hamburgers and stuff on camera for entertainment. So... Yeah, exactly. I'm going to have to go down a whole spiral of being like, what did that serve in my life? I'm really surprised that you've mentioned sleep deprivation. I had never considered that.
But Anna Wolf, DVNC, and Kyla C want to know a little bit about that. Like the conditions where there are maybe not a lot of sleep breaks or not a lot of rest and stuff like that. Is that just partly filming schedule or is that something that it really does sort of take down your filters and guards?
But Anna Wolf, DVNC, and Kyla C want to know a little bit about that. Like the conditions where there are maybe not a lot of sleep breaks or not a lot of rest and stuff like that. Is that just partly filming schedule or is that something that it really does sort of take down your filters and guards?
But Anna Wolf, DVNC, and Kyla C want to know a little bit about that. Like the conditions where there are maybe not a lot of sleep breaks or not a lot of rest and stuff like that. Is that just partly filming schedule or is that something that it really does sort of take down your filters and guards?
Are there a lot of sociologists and sociology professors that work with reality TV? Or did you find that this was like a hard sell for the education board?
Are there a lot of sociologists and sociology professors that work with reality TV? Or did you find that this was like a hard sell for the education board?
Are there a lot of sociologists and sociology professors that work with reality TV? Or did you find that this was like a hard sell for the education board?
But who among us hasn't been A little bitchy when we're hungry or after a red eye broke down crying in an Uber. You know what I mean? Like if you had a camera on me when I've missed a flight in an airport and have cried in the bathroom. If you don't want to lose all your marbles on camera or in a stall that smells like diapers, you may find the acronym HALT helpful.
But who among us hasn't been A little bitchy when we're hungry or after a red eye broke down crying in an Uber. You know what I mean? Like if you had a camera on me when I've missed a flight in an airport and have cried in the bathroom. If you don't want to lose all your marbles on camera or in a stall that smells like diapers, you may find the acronym HALT helpful.
But who among us hasn't been A little bitchy when we're hungry or after a red eye broke down crying in an Uber. You know what I mean? Like if you had a camera on me when I've missed a flight in an airport and have cried in the bathroom. If you don't want to lose all your marbles on camera or in a stall that smells like diapers, you may find the acronym HALT helpful.
It stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired. So again, halt. Hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. And if you're any or all of those things, I don't know, you're dancing too close to the edge, my friend. And I know I've fallen off it. Conditions affect our resilience so much. But Greg Wallach wanted to know how you feel that reality TV has influenced shifts in cultural attitudes like Project Runway or
It stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired. So again, halt. Hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. And if you're any or all of those things, I don't know, you're dancing too close to the edge, my friend. And I know I've fallen off it. Conditions affect our resilience so much. But Greg Wallach wanted to know how you feel that reality TV has influenced shifts in cultural attitudes like Project Runway or
It stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired. So again, halt. Hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. And if you're any or all of those things, I don't know, you're dancing too close to the edge, my friend. And I know I've fallen off it. Conditions affect our resilience so much. But Greg Wallach wanted to know how you feel that reality TV has influenced shifts in cultural attitudes like Project Runway or
RuPaul's Drag Race, queer culture, attitudes toward race, things like gender. Do you think that it's moved things forward to feeling like I have a friend who is queer or trans from watching TV, even if people might not be exposed to them in their actual lives?
RuPaul's Drag Race, queer culture, attitudes toward race, things like gender. Do you think that it's moved things forward to feeling like I have a friend who is queer or trans from watching TV, even if people might not be exposed to them in their actual lives?
RuPaul's Drag Race, queer culture, attitudes toward race, things like gender. Do you think that it's moved things forward to feeling like I have a friend who is queer or trans from watching TV, even if people might not be exposed to them in their actual lives?
So that's some good news. But Marianne asked, do you feel that given today's climate toward women that we should really be watching stuff like The Bachelor where it's so degrading to women? And talking about gender, Ruby Gordon and Olivia Rempel wanted to know, why do many men seem to like it less than many women? Olivia asked, why is reality TV typically seen as a feminine activity?
So that's some good news. But Marianne asked, do you feel that given today's climate toward women that we should really be watching stuff like The Bachelor where it's so degrading to women? And talking about gender, Ruby Gordon and Olivia Rempel wanted to know, why do many men seem to like it less than many women? Olivia asked, why is reality TV typically seen as a feminine activity?
So that's some good news. But Marianne asked, do you feel that given today's climate toward women that we should really be watching stuff like The Bachelor where it's so degrading to women? And talking about gender, Ruby Gordon and Olivia Rempel wanted to know, why do many men seem to like it less than many women? Olivia asked, why is reality TV typically seen as a feminine activity?
I know this isn't always the case and a lot of masculine people enjoy it, but a lot of what I've experienced, they say, is an aversion to these shows from the male presenting people around me. Is that partly because... you know, tentpole shows like Kardashians, Real Housewives are focused on more without taking into account how many shows are reality?
I know this isn't always the case and a lot of masculine people enjoy it, but a lot of what I've experienced, they say, is an aversion to these shows from the male presenting people around me. Is that partly because... you know, tentpole shows like Kardashians, Real Housewives are focused on more without taking into account how many shows are reality?
I know this isn't always the case and a lot of masculine people enjoy it, but a lot of what I've experienced, they say, is an aversion to these shows from the male presenting people around me. Is that partly because... you know, tentpole shows like Kardashians, Real Housewives are focused on more without taking into account how many shows are reality?
Yeah, it is interesting, though, like Ice Road Truckers, Pawn Stars, things like that. Right. That blue-collar hero stuff that they might not think of as reality TV just because people aren't wearing makeup in it, you know? Right. Yeah, good point. People are asking a little bit about the history and the evolution. Esther Haddock wants to know, how has the genre evolved? And Julia L.,
Yeah, it is interesting, though, like Ice Road Truckers, Pawn Stars, things like that. Right. That blue-collar hero stuff that they might not think of as reality TV just because people aren't wearing makeup in it, you know? Right. Yeah, good point. People are asking a little bit about the history and the evolution. Esther Haddock wants to know, how has the genre evolved? And Julia L.,
Yeah, it is interesting, though, like Ice Road Truckers, Pawn Stars, things like that. Right. That blue-collar hero stuff that they might not think of as reality TV just because people aren't wearing makeup in it, you know? Right. Yeah, good point. People are asking a little bit about the history and the evolution. Esther Haddock wants to know, how has the genre evolved? And Julia L.,
And Anajali Himali also wanted to know that. Anajali asked, do you see a change in attitudes or awareness of stereotypes in newer TV shows? Since you've been watching, you know, for 25 years, how have you seen that evolution of different genres?
And Anajali Himali also wanted to know that. Anajali asked, do you see a change in attitudes or awareness of stereotypes in newer TV shows? Since you've been watching, you know, for 25 years, how have you seen that evolution of different genres?
And Anajali Himali also wanted to know that. Anajali asked, do you see a change in attitudes or awareness of stereotypes in newer TV shows? Since you've been watching, you know, for 25 years, how have you seen that evolution of different genres?
Just a side note, if you didn't watch The Swan or you blacked it out due to secondhand trauma, I got you. It premiered around the turn of the century in 2004. And every episode followed two women who identified as ugly ducklings. And they get sequestered in a nice McMansion.
Just a side note, if you didn't watch The Swan or you blacked it out due to secondhand trauma, I got you. It premiered around the turn of the century in 2004. And every episode followed two women who identified as ugly ducklings. And they get sequestered in a nice McMansion.
Just a side note, if you didn't watch The Swan or you blacked it out due to secondhand trauma, I got you. It premiered around the turn of the century in 2004. And every episode followed two women who identified as ugly ducklings. And they get sequestered in a nice McMansion.
And over three months are treated to therapy sessions, personal trainers, dental care, and things like extreme plastic surgery to correct their natural plainness. Wow. You say it can't get much more degrading than that. But hold on. They also have to compete in a beauty contest among all the other contestants.
And over three months are treated to therapy sessions, personal trainers, dental care, and things like extreme plastic surgery to correct their natural plainness. Wow. You say it can't get much more degrading than that. But hold on. They also have to compete in a beauty contest among all the other contestants.
And over three months are treated to therapy sessions, personal trainers, dental care, and things like extreme plastic surgery to correct their natural plainness. Wow. You say it can't get much more degrading than that. But hold on. They also have to compete in a beauty contest among all the other contestants.
And only one is crowned the swan because it's just it's not enough to be at war with your own body. You also have to go into battle against other people with the same vulnerabilities. It only survived two seasons, but it lives on in our hearts like a tapeworm.
And only one is crowned the swan because it's just it's not enough to be at war with your own body. You also have to go into battle against other people with the same vulnerabilities. It only survived two seasons, but it lives on in our hearts like a tapeworm.
And only one is crowned the swan because it's just it's not enough to be at war with your own body. You also have to go into battle against other people with the same vulnerabilities. It only survived two seasons, but it lives on in our hearts like a tapeworm.
Well, there's such a variation in smut level. I feel like you could find highbrow and you can find lowbrow. Is there reality TV that is more respected? And is there some that's like, this is just straight exploitation or scripted? Are there tiers where it gets closer to documentary and then others that get closer to Jerry Springer? Because he's
Well, there's such a variation in smut level. I feel like you could find highbrow and you can find lowbrow. Is there reality TV that is more respected? And is there some that's like, this is just straight exploitation or scripted? Are there tiers where it gets closer to documentary and then others that get closer to Jerry Springer? Because he's
Well, there's such a variation in smut level. I feel like you could find highbrow and you can find lowbrow. Is there reality TV that is more respected? And is there some that's like, this is just straight exploitation or scripted? Are there tiers where it gets closer to documentary and then others that get closer to Jerry Springer? Because he's
Bad boys, bad boys, what you gonna do? Yes, after the BLM movement and Me Too, there was a brief era of so-called cancel culture, say the people who were held accountable for their misdeeds. But it's 2025, baby, and we have seen things that have been canceled bounce right back up like a horror movie villain 10 seconds before the final credits. So yeah, Cops is back.
Bad boys, bad boys, what you gonna do? Yes, after the BLM movement and Me Too, there was a brief era of so-called cancel culture, say the people who were held accountable for their misdeeds. But it's 2025, baby, and we have seen things that have been canceled bounce right back up like a horror movie villain 10 seconds before the final credits. So yeah, Cops is back.
Bad boys, bad boys, what you gonna do? Yes, after the BLM movement and Me Too, there was a brief era of so-called cancel culture, say the people who were held accountable for their misdeeds. But it's 2025, baby, and we have seen things that have been canceled bounce right back up like a horror movie villain 10 seconds before the final credits. So yeah, Cops is back.
It was canceled for four months and resumed shooting in October of 2020. Aired on Fox, it remains one of the longest-running shows in America. The more things change, the more they stay the same. You know, you mentioned transformations. Hannah Marie, Ali B., and Haley Kirby asked about that. Hannah asked, why was Bridal Plasty the best reality TV show ever made, and why was there only one season?
It was canceled for four months and resumed shooting in October of 2020. Aired on Fox, it remains one of the longest-running shows in America. The more things change, the more they stay the same. You know, you mentioned transformations. Hannah Marie, Ali B., and Haley Kirby asked about that. Hannah asked, why was Bridal Plasty the best reality TV show ever made, and why was there only one season?
It was canceled for four months and resumed shooting in October of 2020. Aired on Fox, it remains one of the longest-running shows in America. The more things change, the more they stay the same. You know, you mentioned transformations. Hannah Marie, Ali B., and Haley Kirby asked about that. Hannah asked, why was Bridal Plasty the best reality TV show ever made, and why was there only one season?
Ali B. asked about The Swan and The Biggest Loser. Were they popular because Americans love to critique reality? Or do we hate ourselves so much that we want to see people suffer to change themselves? Have you seen anything in the body positivity movement change in reaction to shows like that? Or have you seen how those types of shows have declined?
Ali B. asked about The Swan and The Biggest Loser. Were they popular because Americans love to critique reality? Or do we hate ourselves so much that we want to see people suffer to change themselves? Have you seen anything in the body positivity movement change in reaction to shows like that? Or have you seen how those types of shows have declined?
Ali B. asked about The Swan and The Biggest Loser. Were they popular because Americans love to critique reality? Or do we hate ourselves so much that we want to see people suffer to change themselves? Have you seen anything in the body positivity movement change in reaction to shows like that? Or have you seen how those types of shows have declined?
I mean, there are elements of bridalplasty on TikTok and on Instagram. You know, if you look up a moisturizing cream, the next thing you know, they're like, would you like to get a full facelift at 35? And you're like, what? What? No. So, you know, those things I think are, they find their niche differently. But, you know, you mentioned race too.
I mean, there are elements of bridalplasty on TikTok and on Instagram. You know, if you look up a moisturizing cream, the next thing you know, they're like, would you like to get a full facelift at 35? And you're like, what? What? No. So, you know, those things I think are, they find their niche differently. But, you know, you mentioned race too.
I mean, there are elements of bridalplasty on TikTok and on Instagram. You know, if you look up a moisturizing cream, the next thing you know, they're like, would you like to get a full facelift at 35? And you're like, what? What? No. So, you know, those things I think are, they find their niche differently. But, you know, you mentioned race too.
Mark J. Lerman wanted to know, how are reality TV dating shows racialized? How does race operate in terms of the presentation? Asked by their daughter, Jackie.
Mark J. Lerman wanted to know, how are reality TV dating shows racialized? How does race operate in terms of the presentation? Asked by their daughter, Jackie.
Mark J. Lerman wanted to know, how are reality TV dating shows racialized? How does race operate in terms of the presentation? Asked by their daughter, Jackie.
Just heads up, I cannot recommend the reality podcast Two Black Girls, One Rose more highly. Justine and Natasha have the hottest takes on things like Love is Blind and The Bachelor. They're looking at modern love and relationships through popular TV.
Just heads up, I cannot recommend the reality podcast Two Black Girls, One Rose more highly. Justine and Natasha have the hottest takes on things like Love is Blind and The Bachelor. They're looking at modern love and relationships through popular TV.
Just heads up, I cannot recommend the reality podcast Two Black Girls, One Rose more highly. Justine and Natasha have the hottest takes on things like Love is Blind and The Bachelor. They're looking at modern love and relationships through popular TV.
So they are, in effect, reality TV sociologists, but also hilarious. Two black girls, one rose. Love those ladies. We have a really interesting episode about vocal fry, accents, code switching, and African-American vernacular English in the phonology episode with a brilliant Dr. Nicole Holliday, which we'll link in the show notes.
So they are, in effect, reality TV sociologists, but also hilarious. Two black girls, one rose. Love those ladies. We have a really interesting episode about vocal fry, accents, code switching, and African-American vernacular English in the phonology episode with a brilliant Dr. Nicole Holliday, which we'll link in the show notes.
So they are, in effect, reality TV sociologists, but also hilarious. Two black girls, one rose. Love those ladies. We have a really interesting episode about vocal fry, accents, code switching, and African-American vernacular English in the phonology episode with a brilliant Dr. Nicole Holliday, which we'll link in the show notes.
Also, Rachel Lindsay, who's an attorney, was the Bachelorette in 2017 and the first black lead in this long-running Bachelor franchise and in a really rare move. did end up married with her pick on the series for five years, which is pretty good.
Also, Rachel Lindsay, who's an attorney, was the Bachelorette in 2017 and the first black lead in this long-running Bachelor franchise and in a really rare move. did end up married with her pick on the series for five years, which is pretty good.
Also, Rachel Lindsay, who's an attorney, was the Bachelorette in 2017 and the first black lead in this long-running Bachelor franchise and in a really rare move. did end up married with her pick on the series for five years, which is pretty good.
They separated in late 2023, but she launched a career as a TV personality and a correspondent from it, which honestly, on that show, that's kind of the bigger goal for a lot of contestants. Are there any shows that you feel like have really moved the needle more? Are there any shows that you're excited about
They separated in late 2023, but she launched a career as a TV personality and a correspondent from it, which honestly, on that show, that's kind of the bigger goal for a lot of contestants. Are there any shows that you feel like have really moved the needle more? Are there any shows that you're excited about
They separated in late 2023, but she launched a career as a TV personality and a correspondent from it, which honestly, on that show, that's kind of the bigger goal for a lot of contestants. Are there any shows that you feel like have really moved the needle more? Are there any shows that you're excited about
giving voice to people who maybe haven't had them in the past, anything like that, that you feel is, you know, very hopeful that that might have super positive impacts?
giving voice to people who maybe haven't had them in the past, anything like that, that you feel is, you know, very hopeful that that might have super positive impacts?
giving voice to people who maybe haven't had them in the past, anything like that, that you feel is, you know, very hopeful that that might have super positive impacts?
We had someone ask about that. Matt Thompson wanted to know how have shows negatively affected different minority groups like Bisexuals with Tila Tequila's dating show and LDS with Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. But you mentioned that there are some other options that are actually kind of illuminating positives of different queer groups. When it comes to religious voyeurism,
We had someone ask about that. Matt Thompson wanted to know how have shows negatively affected different minority groups like Bisexuals with Tila Tequila's dating show and LDS with Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. But you mentioned that there are some other options that are actually kind of illuminating positives of different queer groups. When it comes to religious voyeurism,
We had someone ask about that. Matt Thompson wanted to know how have shows negatively affected different minority groups like Bisexuals with Tila Tequila's dating show and LDS with Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. But you mentioned that there are some other options that are actually kind of illuminating positives of different queer groups. When it comes to religious voyeurism,
I don't feel as bad with religious voyeurism because I'm like, you're proselytizing all the time anyway. So let's look at how fucked up this is. Yeah. Which, I mean, I came from a Catholic background. Me too.
I don't feel as bad with religious voyeurism because I'm like, you're proselytizing all the time anyway. So let's look at how fucked up this is. Yeah. Which, I mean, I came from a Catholic background. Me too.
I don't feel as bad with religious voyeurism because I'm like, you're proselytizing all the time anyway. So let's look at how fucked up this is. Yeah. Which, I mean, I came from a Catholic background. Me too.
It's like, come on in. Literally confessionals. Yeah. Right?
It's like, come on in. Literally confessionals. Yeah. Right?
It's like, come on in. Literally confessionals. Yeah. Right?
Lisa Khan wanted to know, why are American reality shows so awful and cruel? Great British baking show has proven that watching lovely people be kind and wonderful to each other is popular. B. Ingberti asked, I'm a fan of reality shows. However, if we watch shows that are from other countries, such as Japan, I get to learn about cultural norms as an outsider.
Lisa Khan wanted to know, why are American reality shows so awful and cruel? Great British baking show has proven that watching lovely people be kind and wonderful to each other is popular. B. Ingberti asked, I'm a fan of reality shows. However, if we watch shows that are from other countries, such as Japan, I get to learn about cultural norms as an outsider.
Lisa Khan wanted to know, why are American reality shows so awful and cruel? Great British baking show has proven that watching lovely people be kind and wonderful to each other is popular. B. Ingberti asked, I'm a fan of reality shows. However, if we watch shows that are from other countries, such as Japan, I get to learn about cultural norms as an outsider.
Are they very different across different countries? Like, for example, I turned on the TV at a hotel I was in in London right as room service came up and they brought in a sandwich or whatever right as everyone's dongs were just in full 4K color. There's like a reality TV show. What show is this? It's like they show you fully naked naked. On a reality show in England. And I was like, what?
Are they very different across different countries? Like, for example, I turned on the TV at a hotel I was in in London right as room service came up and they brought in a sandwich or whatever right as everyone's dongs were just in full 4K color. There's like a reality TV show. What show is this? It's like they show you fully naked naked. On a reality show in England. And I was like, what?
Are they very different across different countries? Like, for example, I turned on the TV at a hotel I was in in London right as room service came up and they brought in a sandwich or whatever right as everyone's dongs were just in full 4K color. There's like a reality TV show. What show is this? It's like they show you fully naked naked. On a reality show in England. And I was like, what?
And I was mortified. And then I told someone that I met about that later and they were like, oh, no, those are just like our normal reality shows. But it was like full frontal nudity. And I was like, oh, my God. Oh, my God.
And I was mortified. And then I told someone that I met about that later and they were like, oh, no, those are just like our normal reality shows. But it was like full frontal nudity. And I was like, oh, my God. Oh, my God.
And I was mortified. And then I told someone that I met about that later and they were like, oh, no, those are just like our normal reality shows. But it was like full frontal nudity. And I was like, oh, my God. Oh, my God.
I mean, by the way, Naked Attraction was the name of it. Naked Attraction? Are they being judged based on the... Oh, yes. A clothed person is faced with six naked people who are initially hidden in booths. Their bodies and faces are gradually revealed through successive rounds from the feet up. And at each round, the chooser eliminates one naked person until only two are left.
I mean, by the way, Naked Attraction was the name of it. Naked Attraction? Are they being judged based on the... Oh, yes. A clothed person is faced with six naked people who are initially hidden in booths. Their bodies and faces are gradually revealed through successive rounds from the feet up. And at each round, the chooser eliminates one naked person until only two are left.
I mean, by the way, Naked Attraction was the name of it. Naked Attraction? Are they being judged based on the... Oh, yes. A clothed person is faced with six naked people who are initially hidden in booths. Their bodies and faces are gradually revealed through successive rounds from the feet up. And at each round, the chooser eliminates one naked person until only two are left.
When the chooser also takes off their clothes to make the final choice. Just because. Why wouldn't you? And then they pick a person and then they go for a fully clothed date. Oh, I like that they specified that the date was fully clothed. Okay. Fully clothed. And each episode can take up to 12 hours to film. Okay.
When the chooser also takes off their clothes to make the final choice. Just because. Why wouldn't you? And then they pick a person and then they go for a fully clothed date. Oh, I like that they specified that the date was fully clothed. Okay. Fully clothed. And each episode can take up to 12 hours to film. Okay.
When the chooser also takes off their clothes to make the final choice. Just because. Why wouldn't you? And then they pick a person and then they go for a fully clothed date. Oh, I like that they specified that the date was fully clothed. Okay. Fully clothed. And each episode can take up to 12 hours to film. Okay.
Well, it's on Max in case you want to see naked people seeing naked people.
Well, it's on Max in case you want to see naked people seeing naked people.
Well, it's on Max in case you want to see naked people seeing naked people.
And last question about politics. Ali B. and Sidoni S. wanted to know, Ali asks, can you correlate the rise of reality TV with world and political events of the early 2000s? 9-11, Bush administration, war on terror, war in Afghanistan. And really, did this start because we cannot face actual reality? which we touched on earlier.
And last question about politics. Ali B. and Sidoni S. wanted to know, Ali asks, can you correlate the rise of reality TV with world and political events of the early 2000s? 9-11, Bush administration, war on terror, war in Afghanistan. And really, did this start because we cannot face actual reality? which we touched on earlier.
And last question about politics. Ali B. and Sidoni S. wanted to know, Ali asks, can you correlate the rise of reality TV with world and political events of the early 2000s? 9-11, Bush administration, war on terror, war in Afghanistan. And really, did this start because we cannot face actual reality? which we touched on earlier.
But Sidoni S. wanted to know, how did The Apprentice shape America's perspective of Donald Trump? Did reality TV make him our president because of that familiarity? Or what about political and historical influence?
But Sidoni S. wanted to know, how did The Apprentice shape America's perspective of Donald Trump? Did reality TV make him our president because of that familiarity? Or what about political and historical influence?
But Sidoni S. wanted to know, how did The Apprentice shape America's perspective of Donald Trump? Did reality TV make him our president because of that familiarity? Or what about political and historical influence?
And she studied creative writing at Princeton and then got a PhD in sociology from Columbia and has spent her career analyzing and writing about non-normative or deviant behaviors and how they shed light on how we relate to each other. Now, months back, a tweet of hers went viral, and it was a snapshot of the list of presentations some of her students were giving.
And she studied creative writing at Princeton and then got a PhD in sociology from Columbia and has spent her career analyzing and writing about non-normative or deviant behaviors and how they shed light on how we relate to each other. Now, months back, a tweet of hers went viral, and it was a snapshot of the list of presentations some of her students were giving.
And she studied creative writing at Princeton and then got a PhD in sociology from Columbia and has spent her career analyzing and writing about non-normative or deviant behaviors and how they shed light on how we relate to each other. Now, months back, a tweet of hers went viral, and it was a snapshot of the list of presentations some of her students were giving.
What are some reality TV shows that you wish existed? Is it really hard not to be driving around and being like, you know what they're doing? You know?
What are some reality TV shows that you wish existed? Is it really hard not to be driving around and being like, you know what they're doing? You know?
What are some reality TV shows that you wish existed? Is it really hard not to be driving around and being like, you know what they're doing? You know?
And who we are, again, can change from our teenage era to our horny golden years. And it can also change Schrodinger style on whether or not we're being observed.
And who we are, again, can change from our teenage era to our horny golden years. And it can also change Schrodinger style on whether or not we're being observed.
And who we are, again, can change from our teenage era to our horny golden years. And it can also change Schrodinger style on whether or not we're being observed.
It's so funny to think of how maligned reality TV is because of that when people don't realize that they're doing their own forms of code switching 10 times a day, whether they're talking to their dog or their partner or their boss or their in-laws or whatever. So who are we? I feel like is the bigger question that's really, really interesting.
It's so funny to think of how maligned reality TV is because of that when people don't realize that they're doing their own forms of code switching 10 times a day, whether they're talking to their dog or their partner or their boss or their in-laws or whatever. So who are we? I feel like is the bigger question that's really, really interesting.
It's so funny to think of how maligned reality TV is because of that when people don't realize that they're doing their own forms of code switching 10 times a day, whether they're talking to their dog or their partner or their boss or their in-laws or whatever. So who are we? I feel like is the bigger question that's really, really interesting.
When does it become a documentary? When does it cross that line? Does it depend on how much producers sort of prod people or nudge them into different directions? Is it talking head confessional booths? Like when is it a documentary and when is it reality TV?
When does it become a documentary? When does it cross that line? Does it depend on how much producers sort of prod people or nudge them into different directions? Is it talking head confessional booths? Like when is it a documentary and when is it reality TV?
When does it become a documentary? When does it cross that line? Does it depend on how much producers sort of prod people or nudge them into different directions? Is it talking head confessional booths? Like when is it a documentary and when is it reality TV?
I could have spent hours chatting with Danielle like she was a new pal. But that is not why I'm doing this. Megan Ratcliffe, Ali B., Maya, and Kim Granier had questions about that. In Kim's words, can we talk about the phrase, I didn't come here to make friends? Also, Kim writes, if I were on a reality show, I would totally want to make friends with everyone. I'm not here to make friends.
I could have spent hours chatting with Danielle like she was a new pal. But that is not why I'm doing this. Megan Ratcliffe, Ali B., Maya, and Kim Granier had questions about that. In Kim's words, can we talk about the phrase, I didn't come here to make friends? Also, Kim writes, if I were on a reality show, I would totally want to make friends with everyone. I'm not here to make friends.
I could have spent hours chatting with Danielle like she was a new pal. But that is not why I'm doing this. Megan Ratcliffe, Ali B., Maya, and Kim Granier had questions about that. In Kim's words, can we talk about the phrase, I didn't come here to make friends? Also, Kim writes, if I were on a reality show, I would totally want to make friends with everyone. I'm not here to make friends.
About that phrase. I'm not here to make friends. Do you feel like when people are... on a reality show or they're making a reality show. We are there for the parasocial relationships. And is there friendship? Are we becoming friends with the people that we're seeing?
About that phrase. I'm not here to make friends. Do you feel like when people are... on a reality show or they're making a reality show. We are there for the parasocial relationships. And is there friendship? Are we becoming friends with the people that we're seeing?
About that phrase. I'm not here to make friends. Do you feel like when people are... on a reality show or they're making a reality show. We are there for the parasocial relationships. And is there friendship? Are we becoming friends with the people that we're seeing?
Miranda? What's the hardest thing about what you do and study? What's the biggest challenge?
Miranda? What's the hardest thing about what you do and study? What's the biggest challenge?
Miranda? What's the hardest thing about what you do and study? What's the biggest challenge?
What about the best part of your job? Is there anything that just really lights you up that you get butterflies about? Is there anything where you're like, oh, I love doing this?
What about the best part of your job? Is there anything that just really lights you up that you get butterflies about? Is there anything where you're like, oh, I love doing this?
What about the best part of your job? Is there anything that just really lights you up that you get butterflies about? Is there anything where you're like, oh, I love doing this?
Just seeing the list of papers that your students were working on made me see reality TV in so many more dimensions that it is a very fertile ground for exploration of obviously sociology that we just don't think of. We take it for granted because it is entertainment. But studying film in school is there to teach you about social relationships and the art of it.
Just seeing the list of papers that your students were working on made me see reality TV in so many more dimensions that it is a very fertile ground for exploration of obviously sociology that we just don't think of. We take it for granted because it is entertainment. But studying film in school is there to teach you about social relationships and the art of it.
Just seeing the list of papers that your students were working on made me see reality TV in so many more dimensions that it is a very fertile ground for exploration of obviously sociology that we just don't think of. We take it for granted because it is entertainment. But studying film in school is there to teach you about social relationships and the art of it.
So it's no different than being a scholar in film. I think it's so fascinating.
So it's no different than being a scholar in film. I think it's so fascinating.
So it's no different than being a scholar in film. I think it's so fascinating.
Yeah, this makes me want to look at everything that I watch with using more of my brain.
Yeah, this makes me want to look at everything that I watch with using more of my brain.
Yeah, this makes me want to look at everything that I watch with using more of my brain.
Thank you so much for doing this.
Thank you so much for doing this.
Thank you so much for doing this.
So ask real people real not smart questions because they would not dedicate their life to it if they didn't care about the subject. So thank you so, so, so much to Dr. Danielle Lineman for that tweet that led to this conversation and for all the context on things happening right under our noses on our phones usually.
So ask real people real not smart questions because they would not dedicate their life to it if they didn't care about the subject. So thank you so, so, so much to Dr. Danielle Lineman for that tweet that led to this conversation and for all the context on things happening right under our noses on our phones usually.
So ask real people real not smart questions because they would not dedicate their life to it if they didn't care about the subject. So thank you so, so, so much to Dr. Danielle Lineman for that tweet that led to this conversation and for all the context on things happening right under our noses on our phones usually.
Now, we have links to Danielle's work in the show notes, also a link to the Pedro Zamora scholarship, and so many links to clips and research is linked in the show notes. We are at Ologies on Blue Sky. Please give us a follow there. And on Instagram, I'm at Allie Ward on both. And we have shorter kid-friendly episodes called Smologies.
Now, we have links to Danielle's work in the show notes, also a link to the Pedro Zamora scholarship, and so many links to clips and research is linked in the show notes. We are at Ologies on Blue Sky. Please give us a follow there. And on Instagram, I'm at Allie Ward on both. And we have shorter kid-friendly episodes called Smologies.
Now, we have links to Danielle's work in the show notes, also a link to the Pedro Zamora scholarship, and so many links to clips and research is linked in the show notes. We are at Ologies on Blue Sky. Please give us a follow there. And on Instagram, I'm at Allie Ward on both. And we have shorter kid-friendly episodes called Smologies.
Those are available in their own feed every week wherever you get podcasts. S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S. Ologies Merch is available at ologiesmerch.com. You can join our Patreon for as little as a dollar a month at patreon.com slash ologies. A whole bouquet of roses goes out to the people who make this show every week. Aaron Talbert admins the Ologies podcast Facebook group.
Those are available in their own feed every week wherever you get podcasts. S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S. Ologies Merch is available at ologiesmerch.com. You can join our Patreon for as little as a dollar a month at patreon.com slash ologies. A whole bouquet of roses goes out to the people who make this show every week. Aaron Talbert admins the Ologies podcast Facebook group.
Those are available in their own feed every week wherever you get podcasts. S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S. Ologies Merch is available at ologiesmerch.com. You can join our Patreon for as little as a dollar a month at patreon.com slash ologies. A whole bouquet of roses goes out to the people who make this show every week. Aaron Talbert admins the Ologies podcast Facebook group.
Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts. Kelly R. Dwyer does the website. Noelle Dilworth is scheduling producer. Susan Hales, our managing director. Jake Chafee edits and lead editor is Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio. And also thank you, Jarrett Sleeper of Mindjam Media for some finishing touches on this one. I guess you get the final rose because legally we are married.
Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts. Kelly R. Dwyer does the website. Noelle Dilworth is scheduling producer. Susan Hales, our managing director. Jake Chafee edits and lead editor is Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio. And also thank you, Jarrett Sleeper of Mindjam Media for some finishing touches on this one. I guess you get the final rose because legally we are married.
Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts. Kelly R. Dwyer does the website. Noelle Dilworth is scheduling producer. Susan Hales, our managing director. Jake Chafee edits and lead editor is Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio. And also thank you, Jarrett Sleeper of Mindjam Media for some finishing touches on this one. I guess you get the final rose because legally we are married.
Nick Thorburn made the theme music and now is the time when I whisper, confess something and I will tell you that my reality TV vices usually involve building a weird cabin or watching someone surviving in the woods without a cabin or restoring old cars. This week, the reality program I'm most glued to is this couple. The lady is Jackie.
Nick Thorburn made the theme music and now is the time when I whisper, confess something and I will tell you that my reality TV vices usually involve building a weird cabin or watching someone surviving in the woods without a cabin or restoring old cars. This week, the reality program I'm most glued to is this couple. The lady is Jackie.
Nick Thorburn made the theme music and now is the time when I whisper, confess something and I will tell you that my reality TV vices usually involve building a weird cabin or watching someone surviving in the woods without a cabin or restoring old cars. This week, the reality program I'm most glued to is this couple. The lady is Jackie.
And her partner, I don't even think they're married, goes by Shadow. Okay. And they had a kid in 2022, but have been going through some infertility stuff. And a few of their kids were killed and eaten on camera by ravens. But just today, two new offspring hatched. They are birds. They're bald eagles.
And her partner, I don't even think they're married, goes by Shadow. Okay. And they had a kid in 2022, but have been going through some infertility stuff. And a few of their kids were killed and eaten on camera by ravens. But just today, two new offspring hatched. They are birds. They're bald eagles.
And her partner, I don't even think they're married, goes by Shadow. Okay. And they had a kid in 2022, but have been going through some infertility stuff. And a few of their kids were killed and eaten on camera by ravens. But just today, two new offspring hatched. They are birds. They're bald eagles.
Jackie and Shadow are bald eagles who live 14 stories at the top of a Jeffrey Pine tree overlooking Big Bear Lake in Southern California, which isn't too far from where I live in LA. And for months and years, people have been hoping this pair of eagles will be on the other side of their heartbreak. And now...
Jackie and Shadow are bald eagles who live 14 stories at the top of a Jeffrey Pine tree overlooking Big Bear Lake in Southern California, which isn't too far from where I live in LA. And for months and years, people have been hoping this pair of eagles will be on the other side of their heartbreak. And now...
Jackie and Shadow are bald eagles who live 14 stories at the top of a Jeffrey Pine tree overlooking Big Bear Lake in Southern California, which isn't too far from where I live in LA. And for months and years, people have been hoping this pair of eagles will be on the other side of their heartbreak. And now...
Although just in the last year, the socialite star of The Simple Life alongside Nicole Richie. And now media mogul and DJ Paris Hilton has given more of the backstory of the persona the world has known and mocked for decades.
Although just in the last year, the socialite star of The Simple Life alongside Nicole Richie. And now media mogul and DJ Paris Hilton has given more of the backstory of the persona the world has known and mocked for decades.
Although just in the last year, the socialite star of The Simple Life alongside Nicole Richie. And now media mogul and DJ Paris Hilton has given more of the backstory of the persona the world has known and mocked for decades.
Today, with 60,000 people watching the YouTube live stream of their nest, their fuzzy little eaglets made their debut. They have two. There's one egg that hasn't hatched yet. So all day and all night, you can watch them sit on the babies. You can see them weathering gusts as their home kind of bends in the wind.
Today, with 60,000 people watching the YouTube live stream of their nest, their fuzzy little eaglets made their debut. They have two. There's one egg that hasn't hatched yet. So all day and all night, you can watch them sit on the babies. You can see them weathering gusts as their home kind of bends in the wind.
Today, with 60,000 people watching the YouTube live stream of their nest, their fuzzy little eaglets made their debut. They have two. There's one egg that hasn't hatched yet. So all day and all night, you can watch them sit on the babies. You can see them weathering gusts as their home kind of bends in the wind.
They're rearranging sticks, sometimes while bickering, or they're tearing up a duck into shreds to drip into their baby's mouths. They're on the YouTube Friends of Big Bear Lake livestream. Jackie and Shadow, they're eagles. They are here to make friends. You are the friend. And bonus, also, the livestream kind of doubles as an ASMR channel.
They're rearranging sticks, sometimes while bickering, or they're tearing up a duck into shreds to drip into their baby's mouths. They're on the YouTube Friends of Big Bear Lake livestream. Jackie and Shadow, they're eagles. They are here to make friends. You are the friend. And bonus, also, the livestream kind of doubles as an ASMR channel.
They're rearranging sticks, sometimes while bickering, or they're tearing up a duck into shreds to drip into their baby's mouths. They're on the YouTube Friends of Big Bear Lake livestream. Jackie and Shadow, they're eagles. They are here to make friends. You are the friend. And bonus, also, the livestream kind of doubles as an ASMR channel.
If you like the sounds of sticks and bird song and gentle winds and tiny squawking, I do want to model my life after them and just sit and look at a view for most of the day. I do not want to sit on birds, though. Okay, bye-bye.
If you like the sounds of sticks and bird song and gentle winds and tiny squawking, I do want to model my life after them and just sit and look at a view for most of the day. I do not want to sit on birds, though. Okay, bye-bye.
If you like the sounds of sticks and bird song and gentle winds and tiny squawking, I do want to model my life after them and just sit and look at a view for most of the day. I do not want to sit on birds, though. Okay, bye-bye.
And while Paris Hilton has been bravely outspoken at revealing the trauma she endured over her life, in one recent interview with her, she explained that a reason she took on that persona as this vapid, materialistic rich girl was because that was what the media at the time glorified. However, she was the media at the time, but did she have enough power to be authentic? How much is coercion?
And while Paris Hilton has been bravely outspoken at revealing the trauma she endured over her life, in one recent interview with her, she explained that a reason she took on that persona as this vapid, materialistic rich girl was because that was what the media at the time glorified. However, she was the media at the time, but did she have enough power to be authentic? How much is coercion?
And while Paris Hilton has been bravely outspoken at revealing the trauma she endured over her life, in one recent interview with her, she explained that a reason she took on that persona as this vapid, materialistic rich girl was because that was what the media at the time glorified. However, she was the media at the time, but did she have enough power to be authentic? How much is coercion?
So the first of many murky factors is, is someone being themselves? Secondly, what's the point of this show, specifically a reality show?
So the first of many murky factors is, is someone being themselves? Secondly, what's the point of this show, specifically a reality show?
So the first of many murky factors is, is someone being themselves? Secondly, what's the point of this show, specifically a reality show?
Yeah, like the Great British Bake Off. I feel like when I watch it, I'm learning how to make a pastry. Reality is I'm never going to make those pastries. Yeah.
Yeah, like the Great British Bake Off. I feel like when I watch it, I'm learning how to make a pastry. Reality is I'm never going to make those pastries. Yeah.
Yeah, like the Great British Bake Off. I feel like when I watch it, I'm learning how to make a pastry. Reality is I'm never going to make those pastries. Yeah.
Yeah, I mean, I think when people tune into any media, they're looking to get something to put in their pocket to live their life a little bit differently, whether it's aspirational wealth or whether it's. Maybe feeling better about their relationship dynamics because it's not as messy as what they see on TV or something. Like, why? Huge question. Why do we love reality TV? Let's be honest.
Yeah, I mean, I think when people tune into any media, they're looking to get something to put in their pocket to live their life a little bit differently, whether it's aspirational wealth or whether it's. Maybe feeling better about their relationship dynamics because it's not as messy as what they see on TV or something. Like, why? Huge question. Why do we love reality TV? Let's be honest.
Yeah, I mean, I think when people tune into any media, they're looking to get something to put in their pocket to live their life a little bit differently, whether it's aspirational wealth or whether it's. Maybe feeling better about their relationship dynamics because it's not as messy as what they see on TV or something. Like, why? Huge question. Why do we love reality TV? Let's be honest.
And among them were the sociology of body image and self-worth in The Biggest Loser, the sociology of work and inequality in Below Deck, the sociology of lesbian relationships in The Ultimatum, Queer Love, the sociology of perfectionism in Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. So we will dive into a lot of that and more in a sec.
And among them were the sociology of body image and self-worth in The Biggest Loser, the sociology of work and inequality in Below Deck, the sociology of lesbian relationships in The Ultimatum, Queer Love, the sociology of perfectionism in Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. So we will dive into a lot of that and more in a sec.
And among them were the sociology of body image and self-worth in The Biggest Loser, the sociology of work and inequality in Below Deck, the sociology of lesbian relationships in The Ultimatum, Queer Love, the sociology of perfectionism in Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. So we will dive into a lot of that and more in a sec.
Because while you might not watch Vanderpump Rules or Toddlers and Tiaras or Married at First Sight. you may still be a reality watchers like Mythbusters, West Coast Choppers, Brain Games, maybe even the 2020 Netflix series, 100 Humans or Jersey Shore or Beast Games or the one with Alec Baldwin, seven of his children and one semi-Spanish wife. What is reality?
Because while you might not watch Vanderpump Rules or Toddlers and Tiaras or Married at First Sight. you may still be a reality watchers like Mythbusters, West Coast Choppers, Brain Games, maybe even the 2020 Netflix series, 100 Humans or Jersey Shore or Beast Games or the one with Alec Baldwin, seven of his children and one semi-Spanish wife. What is reality?
Because while you might not watch Vanderpump Rules or Toddlers and Tiaras or Married at First Sight. you may still be a reality watchers like Mythbusters, West Coast Choppers, Brain Games, maybe even the 2020 Netflix series, 100 Humans or Jersey Shore or Beast Games or the one with Alec Baldwin, seven of his children and one semi-Spanish wife. What is reality?
Are the Worst people on a reality show actually that bad? They always come out later and say that producers tweaked things, they edited it, they asked them questions, they prodded them. But if you're the worst on a show, are you actually the worst or is that all post-production? I think somewhere in the middle, right?
Are the Worst people on a reality show actually that bad? They always come out later and say that producers tweaked things, they edited it, they asked them questions, they prodded them. But if you're the worst on a show, are you actually the worst or is that all post-production? I think somewhere in the middle, right?
Are the Worst people on a reality show actually that bad? They always come out later and say that producers tweaked things, they edited it, they asked them questions, they prodded them. But if you're the worst on a show, are you actually the worst or is that all post-production? I think somewhere in the middle, right?
And in her book, True Story, What Reality TV Says About Us, she explores race, sexuality, and gender with chapters like, Don't Be All Like Uncool About the Self, Here for the Right Reasons, which explores couple dynamics in reality TV, Not Here to Make Friends is about group sociology, and there's a chapter titled,
And in her book, True Story, What Reality TV Says About Us, she explores race, sexuality, and gender with chapters like, Don't Be All Like Uncool About the Self, Here for the Right Reasons, which explores couple dynamics in reality TV, Not Here to Make Friends is about group sociology, and there's a chapter titled,
And in her book, True Story, What Reality TV Says About Us, she explores race, sexuality, and gender with chapters like, Don't Be All Like Uncool About the Self, Here for the Right Reasons, which explores couple dynamics in reality TV, Not Here to Make Friends is about group sociology, and there's a chapter titled,
But first, thank you to patrons at patreon.com slash ologies for supporting the show for a dollar a month or more. and submitting questions before we record. Thanks to everyone out there in Ologies merch from ologiesmerch.com. Thank you to everyone who leaves reviews, which help the show so much. I read them all and I read you one.
But first, thank you to patrons at patreon.com slash ologies for supporting the show for a dollar a month or more. and submitting questions before we record. Thanks to everyone out there in Ologies merch from ologiesmerch.com. Thank you to everyone who leaves reviews, which help the show so much. I read them all and I read you one.
But first, thank you to patrons at patreon.com slash ologies for supporting the show for a dollar a month or more. and submitting questions before we record. Thanks to everyone out there in Ologies merch from ologiesmerch.com. Thank you to everyone who leaves reviews, which help the show so much. I read them all and I read you one.
I question your taste level about class and even bad boys, bad boys on the sociology of deviance on our screens. And her students get to write papers like The Sociology of Age Stereotyping and The Golden Bachelor, The Sociology of Women's Work in Wife Swap, The Sociology of Social Media in The Circle. So for every reality show, there are like 10 papers you could write.
I question your taste level about class and even bad boys, bad boys on the sociology of deviance on our screens. And her students get to write papers like The Sociology of Age Stereotyping and The Golden Bachelor, The Sociology of Women's Work in Wife Swap, The Sociology of Social Media in The Circle. So for every reality show, there are like 10 papers you could write.
I question your taste level about class and even bad boys, bad boys on the sociology of deviance on our screens. And her students get to write papers like The Sociology of Age Stereotyping and The Golden Bachelor, The Sociology of Women's Work in Wife Swap, The Sociology of Social Media in The Circle. So for every reality show, there are like 10 papers you could write.
It just gives me butterflies that this is a possibility. This is an ology. This stuff deserves to be looked at in an obsessive academic fashion. When you're designing your syllabus for the next semester or when papers are coming in from your students, can you describe some of the topics that get covered and how you decide on those?
It just gives me butterflies that this is a possibility. This is an ology. This stuff deserves to be looked at in an obsessive academic fashion. When you're designing your syllabus for the next semester or when papers are coming in from your students, can you describe some of the topics that get covered and how you decide on those?
It just gives me butterflies that this is a possibility. This is an ology. This stuff deserves to be looked at in an obsessive academic fashion. When you're designing your syllabus for the next semester or when papers are coming in from your students, can you describe some of the topics that get covered and how you decide on those?
When your students are coming up with these papers and they're researching it, do you find that they are typically drawn toward things that have a lot of relevance for their own life? And does that mirror why we tune into some shows and not others?
When your students are coming up with these papers and they're researching it, do you find that they are typically drawn toward things that have a lot of relevance for their own life? And does that mirror why we tune into some shows and not others?
When your students are coming up with these papers and they're researching it, do you find that they are typically drawn toward things that have a lot of relevance for their own life? And does that mirror why we tune into some shows and not others?
So thank you to Sarsi Gray who wrote, in the world of severance, Allie Ward is the Audi Helly R deserves. Swarzy Gray, thank you for that. I hope I wouldn't do that to myself. You know what? Either way, cut banks. Don't sever your crush. Also, thank you Teaspoon32 for saying all the right things. Okay, so reality TV sociology, off we go. Stay tuned for queer culture, making it to the mainstream.
So thank you to Sarsi Gray who wrote, in the world of severance, Allie Ward is the Audi Helly R deserves. Swarzy Gray, thank you for that. I hope I wouldn't do that to myself. You know what? Either way, cut banks. Don't sever your crush. Also, thank you Teaspoon32 for saying all the right things. Okay, so reality TV sociology, off we go. Stay tuned for queer culture, making it to the mainstream.
So thank you to Sarsi Gray who wrote, in the world of severance, Allie Ward is the Audi Helly R deserves. Swarzy Gray, thank you for that. I hope I wouldn't do that to myself. You know what? Either way, cut banks. Don't sever your crush. Also, thank you Teaspoon32 for saying all the right things. Okay, so reality TV sociology, off we go. Stay tuned for queer culture, making it to the mainstream.
The presentation was Sociology of Alcohol in Floribama Shore, which examines the MTV show, which bills itself as nine roommates hit the Gulf Coast to party, hook up, fight, and stir up plenty of other Southern fried shenanigans.
The presentation was Sociology of Alcohol in Floribama Shore, which examines the MTV show, which bills itself as nine roommates hit the Gulf Coast to party, hook up, fight, and stir up plenty of other Southern fried shenanigans.
The presentation was Sociology of Alcohol in Floribama Shore, which examines the MTV show, which bills itself as nine roommates hit the Gulf Coast to party, hook up, fight, and stir up plenty of other Southern fried shenanigans.
I watched some clips. I felt like I could smell the clips.
I watched some clips. I felt like I could smell the clips.
I watched some clips. I felt like I could smell the clips.
Niche.
Niche.
Niche.
Oh, hey, it's the fish soup that you spilled all over the kitchen, which actually did happen to me, Hallie Ward. And this is Ologies. It's a podcast where we explore an ology a week. So you are tuning into a chat about hippos. It will leave you changed. It changed me.
Oh, hey, it's the fish soup that you spilled all over the kitchen, which actually did happen to me, Hallie Ward. And this is Ologies. It's a podcast where we explore an ology a week. So you are tuning into a chat about hippos. It will leave you changed. It changed me.
Oh, hey, it's the fish soup that you spilled all over the kitchen, which actually did happen to me, Hallie Ward. And this is Ologies. It's a podcast where we explore an ology a week. So you are tuning into a chat about hippos. It will leave you changed. It changed me.
Really? Yeah.
Really? Yeah.
Really? Yeah.
That's true? No. That is 100% true. No. What? That's right. Common hippos, the big ones you're used to, they're most closely related to whales. Whales.
That's true? No. That is 100% true. No. What? That's right. Common hippos, the big ones you're used to, they're most closely related to whales. Whales.
That's true? No. That is 100% true. No. What? That's right. Common hippos, the big ones you're used to, they're most closely related to whales. Whales.
I have so many questions. Mouths. Mouths. I'm thinking like baleen, huge, insane mouths on whales and hippos. Why are mouths so big?
I have so many questions. Mouths. Mouths. I'm thinking like baleen, huge, insane mouths on whales and hippos. Why are mouths so big?
I have so many questions. Mouths. Mouths. I'm thinking like baleen, huge, insane mouths on whales and hippos. Why are mouths so big?
And after elephants and rhinos, hippos are the largest land mammal, even though the common hippo's scientific name is hippopotamus amphibius. Terrestrial animal? We'll get into it.
And after elephants and rhinos, hippos are the largest land mammal, even though the common hippo's scientific name is hippopotamus amphibius. Terrestrial animal? We'll get into it.
And after elephants and rhinos, hippos are the largest land mammal, even though the common hippo's scientific name is hippopotamus amphibius. Terrestrial animal? We'll get into it.
That's so much tooth for someone that eats grass. So much tooth.
That's so much tooth for someone that eats grass. So much tooth.
That's so much tooth for someone that eats grass. So much tooth.
These tusks, these mouth harpoons, grow their entire lives. And the bottom incisors, they jut straight out for better stabbing. And though females do have smaller teeth than the males, male tusks can be over 20 inches long or 60 centimeters. Why so big? Because they use them to gore the mouths of their rivals in this spitty, bloody jab battle. It looks like chewing on glass.
These tusks, these mouth harpoons, grow their entire lives. And the bottom incisors, they jut straight out for better stabbing. And though females do have smaller teeth than the males, male tusks can be over 20 inches long or 60 centimeters. Why so big? Because they use them to gore the mouths of their rivals in this spitty, bloody jab battle. It looks like chewing on glass.
These tusks, these mouth harpoons, grow their entire lives. And the bottom incisors, they jut straight out for better stabbing. And though females do have smaller teeth than the males, male tusks can be over 20 inches long or 60 centimeters. Why so big? Because they use them to gore the mouths of their rivals in this spitty, bloody jab battle. It looks like chewing on glass.
So point your weird little ears our way to learn about knife teeth, blood sweat, swamp hippos, pet hippos, subspecies, their daily diet, the current state of hippo conservation, the absolute chaotic affection we have for Mudang. How many people hippos kill a year for real? If you need to apologize to a hippo. Who are hippos' best friends? Their role as ecosystem engineers.
So point your weird little ears our way to learn about knife teeth, blood sweat, swamp hippos, pet hippos, subspecies, their daily diet, the current state of hippo conservation, the absolute chaotic affection we have for Mudang. How many people hippos kill a year for real? If you need to apologize to a hippo. Who are hippos' best friends? Their role as ecosystem engineers.
So point your weird little ears our way to learn about knife teeth, blood sweat, swamp hippos, pet hippos, subspecies, their daily diet, the current state of hippo conservation, the absolute chaotic affection we have for Mudang. How many people hippos kill a year for real? If you need to apologize to a hippo. Who are hippos' best friends? Their role as ecosystem engineers.
Now that I know that they are sister taxa to whales. Yeah. Swimming. How are they swimming? They got no flippers. What's going on?
Now that I know that they are sister taxa to whales. Yeah. Swimming. How are they swimming? They got no flippers. What's going on?
Now that I know that they are sister taxa to whales. Yeah. Swimming. How are they swimming? They got no flippers. What's going on?
And so how are they underwater for five or six minutes and what occasion do they have to use that feature? Yeah.
And so how are they underwater for five or six minutes and what occasion do they have to use that feature? Yeah.
And so how are they underwater for five or six minutes and what occasion do they have to use that feature? Yeah.
So essentially your nostrils face your feet, right? Don't put your fingers in there, but you know they're facing your feet. They're pointing down. Hippo nostrils are like on the top of their head and they're facing the sky. Like, you know, Shrek's ears? that's like their nostrils. But they also have ears that look like Shrek's ears.
So essentially your nostrils face your feet, right? Don't put your fingers in there, but you know they're facing your feet. They're pointing down. Hippo nostrils are like on the top of their head and they're facing the sky. Like, you know, Shrek's ears? that's like their nostrils. But they also have ears that look like Shrek's ears.
So essentially your nostrils face your feet, right? Don't put your fingers in there, but you know they're facing your feet. They're pointing down. Hippo nostrils are like on the top of their head and they're facing the sky. Like, you know, Shrek's ears? that's like their nostrils. But they also have ears that look like Shrek's ears.
So they kind of have like a Shrek's ears for ears and then a small Shrek's ears that are actually their nostrils. It's just unsettling. I like it.
So they kind of have like a Shrek's ears for ears and then a small Shrek's ears that are actually their nostrils. It's just unsettling. I like it.
So they kind of have like a Shrek's ears for ears and then a small Shrek's ears that are actually their nostrils. It's just unsettling. I like it.
I was going to say, it's like a chocolate river. That's right. Hippos killing people. let's talk about it because they cause more human fatalities than sharks, which we, as if we don't have it coming, like we have a coming so hard, but how are they lethal?
I was going to say, it's like a chocolate river. That's right. Hippos killing people. let's talk about it because they cause more human fatalities than sharks, which we, as if we don't have it coming, like we have a coming so hard, but how are they lethal?
I was going to say, it's like a chocolate river. That's right. Hippos killing people. let's talk about it because they cause more human fatalities than sharks, which we, as if we don't have it coming, like we have a coming so hard, but how are they lethal?
If you have ever been brainwashed about a hippo, what's up with their nostrils? How to keep a hippo in your pocket? And tips on flattering your friends into planning a group vacation. With conservation biologist, professor, and actual real-life hippopotamologist, Dr. Rebecca Lewison.
If you have ever been brainwashed about a hippo, what's up with their nostrils? How to keep a hippo in your pocket? And tips on flattering your friends into planning a group vacation. With conservation biologist, professor, and actual real-life hippopotamologist, Dr. Rebecca Lewison.
If you have ever been brainwashed about a hippo, what's up with their nostrils? How to keep a hippo in your pocket? And tips on flattering your friends into planning a group vacation. With conservation biologist, professor, and actual real-life hippopotamologist, Dr. Rebecca Lewison.
So what's the source of all this drama? Surprise, it's us. Do those happen with overturned boats or bites or how does it?
So what's the source of all this drama? Surprise, it's us. Do those happen with overturned boats or bites or how does it?
So what's the source of all this drama? Surprise, it's us. Do those happen with overturned boats or bites or how does it?
Yeah. It's like donuts in the break room. What are they supposed to do?
Yeah. It's like donuts in the break room. What are they supposed to do?
Yeah. It's like donuts in the break room. What are they supposed to do?
How are hippo numbers? We know that the pygmy hippo is not doing so great, but how are hippo numbers in general?
How are hippo numbers? We know that the pygmy hippo is not doing so great, but how are hippo numbers in general?
How are hippo numbers? We know that the pygmy hippo is not doing so great, but how are hippo numbers in general?
We've got a true hippopotamologist, a professor of biology at San Diego State University, whose research at Vassar and UC Davis focused on vulnerable wildlife populations and conservation and, of course... Hippos. So they know way more about hippos than most people ever will on the planet. And they're in a very elite club of hippopotamologists.
We've got a true hippopotamologist, a professor of biology at San Diego State University, whose research at Vassar and UC Davis focused on vulnerable wildlife populations and conservation and, of course... Hippos. So they know way more about hippos than most people ever will on the planet. And they're in a very elite club of hippopotamologists.
We've got a true hippopotamologist, a professor of biology at San Diego State University, whose research at Vassar and UC Davis focused on vulnerable wildlife populations and conservation and, of course... Hippos. So they know way more about hippos than most people ever will on the planet. And they're in a very elite club of hippopotamologists.
So aside from zoos, are there hippos outside of Africa? Oh, we will discuss.
So aside from zoos, are there hippos outside of Africa? Oh, we will discuss.
So aside from zoos, are there hippos outside of Africa? Oh, we will discuss.
Yeah. I would have thought there were millions out there. Yeah. And when it comes to distribution, 38 countries is so many countries. But if you had a map of the world, where do we think they are that they're not? And what would surprise us about where they are? Like when it comes to their range, what do most people think versus what's the reality?
Yeah. I would have thought there were millions out there. Yeah. And when it comes to distribution, 38 countries is so many countries. But if you had a map of the world, where do we think they are that they're not? And what would surprise us about where they are? Like when it comes to their range, what do most people think versus what's the reality?
Yeah. I would have thought there were millions out there. Yeah. And when it comes to distribution, 38 countries is so many countries. But if you had a map of the world, where do we think they are that they're not? And what would surprise us about where they are? Like when it comes to their range, what do most people think versus what's the reality?
And Rebecca says that while there are only two species, there is debate about whether up to four subspecies exist since West and East African hippos are so isolated from each other geographically.
And Rebecca says that while there are only two species, there is debate about whether up to four subspecies exist since West and East African hippos are so isolated from each other geographically.
And Rebecca says that while there are only two species, there is debate about whether up to four subspecies exist since West and East African hippos are so isolated from each other geographically.
When you say disagreement, what is that like in the hippo community? Are there conferences? Do people not speak to certain colleagues anymore? What are hippo people like?
When you say disagreement, what is that like in the hippo community? Are there conferences? Do people not speak to certain colleagues anymore? What are hippo people like?
When you say disagreement, what is that like in the hippo community? Are there conferences? Do people not speak to certain colleagues anymore? What are hippo people like?
Why do they have such tiny ears?
Why do they have such tiny ears?
Why do they have such tiny ears?
I guess there's a reason we don't go swimming in gowns. Exactly. You don't want too much drag. You mentioned the nostrils being like blowholes. The Jungle Cruise at Disney. You've been on it?
I guess there's a reason we don't go swimming in gowns. Exactly. You don't want too much drag. You mentioned the nostrils being like blowholes. The Jungle Cruise at Disney. You've been on it?
I guess there's a reason we don't go swimming in gowns. Exactly. You don't want too much drag. You mentioned the nostrils being like blowholes. The Jungle Cruise at Disney. You've been on it?
You're not far from Anaheim. What I recall from that ride is that there's a lot of puns. I believe there's some racism in it, but also there's a depiction of hippos as like nature's ultimate predator. Do you recall anything about that? I do.
You're not far from Anaheim. What I recall from that ride is that there's a lot of puns. I believe there's some racism in it, but also there's a depiction of hippos as like nature's ultimate predator. Do you recall anything about that? I do.
You're not far from Anaheim. What I recall from that ride is that there's a lot of puns. I believe there's some racism in it, but also there's a depiction of hippos as like nature's ultimate predator. Do you recall anything about that? I do.
Thank you so much for doing this. As someone who studies hippos, this is a busy time of life for you, and we will get to why. How long have hippos been part of your bread and butter?
Thank you so much for doing this. As someone who studies hippos, this is a busy time of life for you, and we will get to why. How long have hippos been part of your bread and butter?
Thank you so much for doing this. As someone who studies hippos, this is a busy time of life for you, and we will get to why. How long have hippos been part of your bread and butter?
I mean, hello, mosquitoes.
I mean, hello, mosquitoes.
I mean, hello, mosquitoes.
It goes like, we did a mosquito episode recently, and it's like, mosquitoes, other humans... Yeah. Snakes, like dogs with rabies, like whatever. Humans and mosquitoes are the ones you got to watch out for. Absolutely. Can I ask you patron questions? Yeah. Okay. Your questions about hippos in a moment, but first we're going to fling some cash at a worthy cause.
It goes like, we did a mosquito episode recently, and it's like, mosquitoes, other humans... Yeah. Snakes, like dogs with rabies, like whatever. Humans and mosquitoes are the ones you got to watch out for. Absolutely. Can I ask you patron questions? Yeah. Okay. Your questions about hippos in a moment, but first we're going to fling some cash at a worthy cause.
It goes like, we did a mosquito episode recently, and it's like, mosquitoes, other humans... Yeah. Snakes, like dogs with rabies, like whatever. Humans and mosquitoes are the ones you got to watch out for. Absolutely. Can I ask you patron questions? Yeah. Okay. Your questions about hippos in a moment, but first we're going to fling some cash at a worthy cause.
And this week it's going to Weichau Community Hippo Sanctuary, which is a community-led tourism attraction project. It's located at Weichau in the Upper West region of Ghana. And they say that hippos help regulate both aquatic and terrestrial habitats and are great ecosystem engineers. So it's a great cause to find out more. You can go to wilderinstitute.org. The link is in the show notes.
And this week it's going to Weichau Community Hippo Sanctuary, which is a community-led tourism attraction project. It's located at Weichau in the Upper West region of Ghana. And they say that hippos help regulate both aquatic and terrestrial habitats and are great ecosystem engineers. So it's a great cause to find out more. You can go to wilderinstitute.org. The link is in the show notes.
And this week it's going to Weichau Community Hippo Sanctuary, which is a community-led tourism attraction project. It's located at Weichau in the Upper West region of Ghana. And they say that hippos help regulate both aquatic and terrestrial habitats and are great ecosystem engineers. So it's a great cause to find out more. You can go to wilderinstitute.org. The link is in the show notes.
So thank you for the heads up on that, Rebecca. And thanks for the money, sponsors. Okay, your questions. You can submit yours via patreon.com slash ologies. It costs one hot dollar a month, although the upper tiers let you leave us audio questions. So let's dig into the bag and let's get those answered and find out how to make hippos happier. Deborah Brunner said...
So thank you for the heads up on that, Rebecca. And thanks for the money, sponsors. Okay, your questions. You can submit yours via patreon.com slash ologies. It costs one hot dollar a month, although the upper tiers let you leave us audio questions. So let's dig into the bag and let's get those answered and find out how to make hippos happier. Deborah Brunner said...
So thank you for the heads up on that, Rebecca. And thanks for the money, sponsors. Okay, your questions. You can submit yours via patreon.com slash ologies. It costs one hot dollar a month, although the upper tiers let you leave us audio questions. So let's dig into the bag and let's get those answered and find out how to make hippos happier. Deborah Brunner said...
So yeah, here's an idea. You don't want to see the sharp end of a tusk. Stay out of the river. If a hippo picked a lock and arrived in the middle of the night in your living room, dripping with river poo, would you not grab the baseball bat between your bed and the nightstand and ask it in no uncertain terms to scram? I know you would.
So yeah, here's an idea. You don't want to see the sharp end of a tusk. Stay out of the river. If a hippo picked a lock and arrived in the middle of the night in your living room, dripping with river poo, would you not grab the baseball bat between your bed and the nightstand and ask it in no uncertain terms to scram? I know you would.
So yeah, here's an idea. You don't want to see the sharp end of a tusk. Stay out of the river. If a hippo picked a lock and arrived in the middle of the night in your living room, dripping with river poo, would you not grab the baseball bat between your bed and the nightstand and ask it in no uncertain terms to scram? I know you would.
Speaking of certainty, do hippos know when they've found the one? Steph Simmons, Ann Arbor, Michigan, asks,
Speaking of certainty, do hippos know when they've found the one? Steph Simmons, Ann Arbor, Michigan, asks,
Speaking of certainty, do hippos know when they've found the one? Steph Simmons, Ann Arbor, Michigan, asks,
A little bit. Yeah. They're showing off a little too.
A little bit. Yeah. They're showing off a little too.
A little bit. Yeah. They're showing off a little too.
Amanda and Eli Loves Vultures both want to know, Eli says, I love hearing scientists describe animal sounds, wheezes and honks and croaks. Oh my, what do we know about the sounds they make and what don't we know? That is a great question.
Amanda and Eli Loves Vultures both want to know, Eli says, I love hearing scientists describe animal sounds, wheezes and honks and croaks. Oh my, what do we know about the sounds they make and what don't we know? That is a great question.
Amanda and Eli Loves Vultures both want to know, Eli says, I love hearing scientists describe animal sounds, wheezes and honks and croaks. Oh my, what do we know about the sounds they make and what don't we know? That is a great question.
I so appreciate that you're able to mimic them like that. Do people ever try to get them to come to them? No one that I know.
I so appreciate that you're able to mimic them like that. Do people ever try to get them to come to them? No one that I know.
I so appreciate that you're able to mimic them like that. Do people ever try to get them to come to them? No one that I know.
We need more hippopotamologists. We absolutely do. Several listeners asked this question that was absolutely not on my radar whatsoever. Amanda Nugent asks, is there a plan for the cocaine hippos in Colombia from Escobar's estate? Kayla White, all caps, all caps, no punctuation, said, please, please, please talk about Pablo Escobar's hippos. please, it's my favorite story to tell new people.
We need more hippopotamologists. We absolutely do. Several listeners asked this question that was absolutely not on my radar whatsoever. Amanda Nugent asks, is there a plan for the cocaine hippos in Colombia from Escobar's estate? Kayla White, all caps, all caps, no punctuation, said, please, please, please talk about Pablo Escobar's hippos. please, it's my favorite story to tell new people.
We need more hippopotamologists. We absolutely do. Several listeners asked this question that was absolutely not on my radar whatsoever. Amanda Nugent asks, is there a plan for the cocaine hippos in Colombia from Escobar's estate? Kayla White, all caps, all caps, no punctuation, said, please, please, please talk about Pablo Escobar's hippos. please, it's my favorite story to tell new people.
It will be your new favorite story, especially for inquiring patrons, Alan Gross, Stephen Lee, Teresa Gleason, Kristen Love, Matt Goff, Jen Squirrel-Alvarez, A Softly Boiled Egg, Christina Hammerberg, Lucy Vinn, Sigwani Dana, Gregorius of Tomsk, and Pavka34, who needed to hear about these cocaine hippos.
It will be your new favorite story, especially for inquiring patrons, Alan Gross, Stephen Lee, Teresa Gleason, Kristen Love, Matt Goff, Jen Squirrel-Alvarez, A Softly Boiled Egg, Christina Hammerberg, Lucy Vinn, Sigwani Dana, Gregorius of Tomsk, and Pavka34, who needed to hear about these cocaine hippos.
It will be your new favorite story, especially for inquiring patrons, Alan Gross, Stephen Lee, Teresa Gleason, Kristen Love, Matt Goff, Jen Squirrel-Alvarez, A Softly Boiled Egg, Christina Hammerberg, Lucy Vinn, Sigwani Dana, Gregorius of Tomsk, and Pavka34, who needed to hear about these cocaine hippos.
I guess this sort of dovetails into the question of meat. Rebecca Morrison, Tinaz, Michael Sherman, Daniel Schmaniel, Jess Sunter, several people asked, do people eat hippos?
I guess this sort of dovetails into the question of meat. Rebecca Morrison, Tinaz, Michael Sherman, Daniel Schmaniel, Jess Sunter, several people asked, do people eat hippos?
I guess this sort of dovetails into the question of meat. Rebecca Morrison, Tinaz, Michael Sherman, Daniel Schmaniel, Jess Sunter, several people asked, do people eat hippos?
And a few listeners, reigning Emily and Andy Pepper, hoped that I would bring up what patron Mackenzie King wrote instead of a question, offered, this feels like a great place to drop the fun fact I have about hippos. Mackenzie writes, in 1910, Robert Broussard, a Louisiana senator, proposed that hippos be imported from Africa to Louisiana to be the new version of beef in America.
And a few listeners, reigning Emily and Andy Pepper, hoped that I would bring up what patron Mackenzie King wrote instead of a question, offered, this feels like a great place to drop the fun fact I have about hippos. Mackenzie writes, in 1910, Robert Broussard, a Louisiana senator, proposed that hippos be imported from Africa to Louisiana to be the new version of beef in America.
And a few listeners, reigning Emily and Andy Pepper, hoped that I would bring up what patron Mackenzie King wrote instead of a question, offered, this feels like a great place to drop the fun fact I have about hippos. Mackenzie writes, in 1910, Robert Broussard, a Louisiana senator, proposed that hippos be imported from Africa to Louisiana to be the new version of beef in America.
Not her. She dedicated her research to a notoriously challenging terrestrial species. What the hell happened?
Not her. She dedicated her research to a notoriously challenging terrestrial species. What the hell happened?
Not her. She dedicated her research to a notoriously challenging terrestrial species. What the hell happened?
This was due to corporate beef monopolies, beef shortages, and super high prices on beef nationwide. I was like, whoa, Raining Emily, Andy Pepper, and Mackenzie, I didn't even know about this. So yeah, the American hippo bill was introduced by Robert Broussard, or as fellow Louisianans called him in the early 1900s, Cousin Bob. And though he had the blessing of Teddy Roosevelt...
This was due to corporate beef monopolies, beef shortages, and super high prices on beef nationwide. I was like, whoa, Raining Emily, Andy Pepper, and Mackenzie, I didn't even know about this. So yeah, the American hippo bill was introduced by Robert Broussard, or as fellow Louisianans called him in the early 1900s, Cousin Bob. And though he had the blessing of Teddy Roosevelt...
This was due to corporate beef monopolies, beef shortages, and super high prices on beef nationwide. I was like, whoa, Raining Emily, Andy Pepper, and Mackenzie, I didn't even know about this. So yeah, the American hippo bill was introduced by Robert Broussard, or as fellow Louisianans called him in the early 1900s, Cousin Bob. And though he had the blessing of Teddy Roosevelt...
New York Times food writers who attested that hippo brisket was fatty and tasted like lake cow bacon. And Broussard even had the support of some ecologists looking to solve the invasive water hyacinth problem that was plaguing New Orleans.
New York Times food writers who attested that hippo brisket was fatty and tasted like lake cow bacon. And Broussard even had the support of some ecologists looking to solve the invasive water hyacinth problem that was plaguing New Orleans.
New York Times food writers who attested that hippo brisket was fatty and tasted like lake cow bacon. And Broussard even had the support of some ecologists looking to solve the invasive water hyacinth problem that was plaguing New Orleans.
Alas. As you know, no swamp hippos lurk in our dark American waters. Our sprawling Bass Pro shops don't sell hippo calling devices to locals. We don't get to see invasive hippos learning to use crosswalks or trying to mate with hot dog carts. But yeah, in other countries, if they got a hippo, they may eat a hippo.
Alas. As you know, no swamp hippos lurk in our dark American waters. Our sprawling Bass Pro shops don't sell hippo calling devices to locals. We don't get to see invasive hippos learning to use crosswalks or trying to mate with hot dog carts. But yeah, in other countries, if they got a hippo, they may eat a hippo.
Alas. As you know, no swamp hippos lurk in our dark American waters. Our sprawling Bass Pro shops don't sell hippo calling devices to locals. We don't get to see invasive hippos learning to use crosswalks or trying to mate with hot dog carts. But yeah, in other countries, if they got a hippo, they may eat a hippo.
Allison Ledman wanted to know, are there any other animals besides humans that prey on hippos? Or do predators just know to steer clear?
Allison Ledman wanted to know, are there any other animals besides humans that prey on hippos? Or do predators just know to steer clear?
Allison Ledman wanted to know, are there any other animals besides humans that prey on hippos? Or do predators just know to steer clear?
Crocodiles can't even get them. A crocodile will shred your ass up and down and drown you as casually as eating a Snickers, but they can't fight off a hippo. Who would dare? Not many creatures. If they don't have a ton of enemies, do they have a lot of friends?
Crocodiles can't even get them. A crocodile will shred your ass up and down and drown you as casually as eating a Snickers, but they can't fight off a hippo. Who would dare? Not many creatures. If they don't have a ton of enemies, do they have a lot of friends?
Crocodiles can't even get them. A crocodile will shred your ass up and down and drown you as casually as eating a Snickers, but they can't fight off a hippo. Who would dare? Not many creatures. If they don't have a ton of enemies, do they have a lot of friends?
Like Marissa Kay, first-time question asker, long-time listener, very excited about hippos, would like to know a little bit more about their social structure. Risa Pereni wants to know if they ever cuddle. Do they pair or live separately?
Like Marissa Kay, first-time question asker, long-time listener, very excited about hippos, would like to know a little bit more about their social structure. Risa Pereni wants to know if they ever cuddle. Do they pair or live separately?
Like Marissa Kay, first-time question asker, long-time listener, very excited about hippos, would like to know a little bit more about their social structure. Risa Pereni wants to know if they ever cuddle. Do they pair or live separately?
And patrons Mona Finlayson, Prani Kiritsingh, Storm Kitty Hammond, Colin Robotten, Oliver Callis also asked this, and in Bronwyn Iverson's Hugo's words, do they have best friends?
And patrons Mona Finlayson, Prani Kiritsingh, Storm Kitty Hammond, Colin Robotten, Oliver Callis also asked this, and in Bronwyn Iverson's Hugo's words, do they have best friends?
And patrons Mona Finlayson, Prani Kiritsingh, Storm Kitty Hammond, Colin Robotten, Oliver Callis also asked this, and in Bronwyn Iverson's Hugo's words, do they have best friends?
You know, speaking of males, people asked about Rob Lara, the poo helicopter, why? Lena Carpenter wanted to know, how do hippos just poop in the water? Like, the water they're in, and then proceed to swim in it like no big deal. Boy, hippo poop spraying, disgust. Do they have middens? Do they just go wherever? There must be so much of it.
You know, speaking of males, people asked about Rob Lara, the poo helicopter, why? Lena Carpenter wanted to know, how do hippos just poop in the water? Like, the water they're in, and then proceed to swim in it like no big deal. Boy, hippo poop spraying, disgust. Do they have middens? Do they just go wherever? There must be so much of it.
You know, speaking of males, people asked about Rob Lara, the poo helicopter, why? Lena Carpenter wanted to know, how do hippos just poop in the water? Like, the water they're in, and then proceed to swim in it like no big deal. Boy, hippo poop spraying, disgust. Do they have middens? Do they just go wherever? There must be so much of it.
So it might be easier to see the behavior of spiders if they're living in the lab and stuff. Exactly.
So it might be easier to see the behavior of spiders if they're living in the lab and stuff. Exactly.
So it might be easier to see the behavior of spiders if they're living in the lab and stuff. Exactly.
Thank you, patron and first-time question asker Allison Ludwig for asking, do tilapia really swim behind them and eat their poo? Allison Ludwig, they do. So yes, Emily Gee, Ashley Tween, and Rowan Tree, there are symbiotic relationships aplenty in a hippo's life. And so to Gits and Shiggles and Emma Henson, who asked, I have to befriend one before I die. How do I go about this?
Thank you, patron and first-time question asker Allison Ludwig for asking, do tilapia really swim behind them and eat their poo? Allison Ludwig, they do. So yes, Emily Gee, Ashley Tween, and Rowan Tree, there are symbiotic relationships aplenty in a hippo's life. And so to Gits and Shiggles and Emma Henson, who asked, I have to befriend one before I die. How do I go about this?
Thank you, patron and first-time question asker Allison Ludwig for asking, do tilapia really swim behind them and eat their poo? Allison Ludwig, they do. So yes, Emily Gee, Ashley Tween, and Rowan Tree, there are symbiotic relationships aplenty in a hippo's life. And so to Gits and Shiggles and Emma Henson, who asked, I have to befriend one before I die. How do I go about this?
The answer is to become a tilapia. You're never going to be bored. You're never going to be hungry. Every day is a feast.
The answer is to become a tilapia. You're never going to be bored. You're never going to be hungry. Every day is a feast.
The answer is to become a tilapia. You're never going to be bored. You're never going to be hungry. Every day is a feast.
Oh, my God. Yeah. Which I've seen it in people's like horrified zoo videos. But I hope that that's like a blessing.
Oh, my God. Yeah. Which I've seen it in people's like horrified zoo videos. But I hope that that's like a blessing.
Oh, my God. Yeah. Which I've seen it in people's like horrified zoo videos. But I hope that that's like a blessing.
Stacey Bendixson wants to know, do they sleep underwater?
Stacey Bendixson wants to know, do they sleep underwater?
Stacey Bendixson wants to know, do they sleep underwater?
Okay. There's no way that they could lung capacity wise, but in general, they're not like snoozing in a pile on the banks though.
Okay. There's no way that they could lung capacity wise, but in general, they're not like snoozing in a pile on the banks though.
Okay. There's no way that they could lung capacity wise, but in general, they're not like snoozing in a pile on the banks though.
Do you think that scientists are starting to rely more on like drone footage? Is that helpful in terms of getting kind of closer to them and getting like a better eye on them?
Do you think that scientists are starting to rely more on like drone footage? Is that helpful in terms of getting kind of closer to them and getting like a better eye on them?
Do you think that scientists are starting to rely more on like drone footage? Is that helpful in terms of getting kind of closer to them and getting like a better eye on them?
You know, pop culturally, there's no lack of hippos.
You know, pop culturally, there's no lack of hippos.
You know, pop culturally, there's no lack of hippos.
In terms of the word, the beach master, are you, you're familiar with that term? Is it, there's a really long time ago, a documentary about hippos, and they talked about how there's a beach master of hippos.
In terms of the word, the beach master, are you, you're familiar with that term? Is it, there's a really long time ago, a documentary about hippos, and they talked about how there's a beach master of hippos.
In terms of the word, the beach master, are you, you're familiar with that term? Is it, there's a really long time ago, a documentary about hippos, and they talked about how there's a beach master of hippos.
And I wasn't sure if this is like a very common term for hippos, and this is just a side note, but that term has stuck around me and my good girl friend groups for decades now, where the beach master is the one in our friend group who now has to decide like where we're going to go to dinner, or someone needs to beachmaster this because I can't deal.
And I wasn't sure if this is like a very common term for hippos, and this is just a side note, but that term has stuck around me and my good girl friend groups for decades now, where the beach master is the one in our friend group who now has to decide like where we're going to go to dinner, or someone needs to beachmaster this because I can't deal.
And I wasn't sure if this is like a very common term for hippos, and this is just a side note, but that term has stuck around me and my good girl friend groups for decades now, where the beach master is the one in our friend group who now has to decide like where we're going to go to dinner, or someone needs to beachmaster this because I can't deal.
But I wasn't sure if beachmaster is like, no, that's what we call the dominant male. But no, beachmaster is not a familiar term.
But I wasn't sure if beachmaster is like, no, that's what we call the dominant male. But no, beachmaster is not a familiar term.
But I wasn't sure if beachmaster is like, no, that's what we call the dominant male. But no, beachmaster is not a familiar term.
I played it all the time. They don't even eat marbles in real life, right? They definitely don't.
I played it all the time. They don't even eat marbles in real life, right? They definitely don't.
I played it all the time. They don't even eat marbles in real life, right? They definitely don't.
It reminds me of like on the bachelorette when one gets a one-on-one date and the rest have to hang out at the mansion.
It reminds me of like on the bachelorette when one gets a one-on-one date and the rest have to hang out at the mansion.
It reminds me of like on the bachelorette when one gets a one-on-one date and the rest have to hang out at the mansion.
Do a lot of hippo males divergence? Excellent question.
Do a lot of hippo males divergence? Excellent question.
Do a lot of hippo males divergence? Excellent question.
When it comes to trying to get DNA samples, their skin seems so thick. You can't just run a Q-tip over their skin and get samples, right? You've touched hippos?
When it comes to trying to get DNA samples, their skin seems so thick. You can't just run a Q-tip over their skin and get samples, right? You've touched hippos?
When it comes to trying to get DNA samples, their skin seems so thick. You can't just run a Q-tip over their skin and get samples, right? You've touched hippos?
But they're not a pachyderm.
But they're not a pachyderm.
But they're not a pachyderm.
Apparently, a hippo hide can be two and a half inches thick or six centimeters, which is comparable to a very robust slab of kitchen countertop or a butcher block made out of wet leather. And speaking of leather, yes, you could buy, say, a wallet made from hippo skin. And it looks kind of like... thick, crackly suede.
Apparently, a hippo hide can be two and a half inches thick or six centimeters, which is comparable to a very robust slab of kitchen countertop or a butcher block made out of wet leather. And speaking of leather, yes, you could buy, say, a wallet made from hippo skin. And it looks kind of like... thick, crackly suede.
Apparently, a hippo hide can be two and a half inches thick or six centimeters, which is comparable to a very robust slab of kitchen countertop or a butcher block made out of wet leather. And speaking of leather, yes, you could buy, say, a wallet made from hippo skin. And it looks kind of like... thick, crackly suede.
You could buy it, that is, if you had $99 plus tax and shipping and you wanted it. Now they are, I found some, they're handmade in Indiana by Amish craftsmen and their website has images demonstrating like it's billfold and slots for up to eight credit cards. And I was scrolling to the bottom of the description and I spotted this small disclaimer that said, money and cards are not included.
You could buy it, that is, if you had $99 plus tax and shipping and you wanted it. Now they are, I found some, they're handmade in Indiana by Amish craftsmen and their website has images demonstrating like it's billfold and slots for up to eight credit cards. And I was scrolling to the bottom of the description and I spotted this small disclaimer that said, money and cards are not included.
You could buy it, that is, if you had $99 plus tax and shipping and you wanted it. Now they are, I found some, they're handmade in Indiana by Amish craftsmen and their website has images demonstrating like it's billfold and slots for up to eight credit cards. And I was scrolling to the bottom of the description and I spotted this small disclaimer that said, money and cards are not included.
And I'm like, They must have gotten one email from a customer who was just enraged that theirs arrived empty. But from seeing red to being tickled pink, what a segue. Let's discuss a question from... So... Speaking of their skin though, sweating blood, what's the deal? Do they sweat red? Is it sunscreen? What's going on?
And I'm like, They must have gotten one email from a customer who was just enraged that theirs arrived empty. But from seeing red to being tickled pink, what a segue. Let's discuss a question from... So... Speaking of their skin though, sweating blood, what's the deal? Do they sweat red? Is it sunscreen? What's going on?
And I'm like, They must have gotten one email from a customer who was just enraged that theirs arrived empty. But from seeing red to being tickled pink, what a segue. Let's discuss a question from... So... Speaking of their skin though, sweating blood, what's the deal? Do they sweat red? Is it sunscreen? What's going on?
I want that a little bit.
I want that a little bit.
I want that a little bit.
Right? A few Mudang questions because, of course. She's the cutest, cutest.
Right? A few Mudang questions because, of course. She's the cutest, cutest.
Right? A few Mudang questions because, of course. She's the cutest, cutest.
Bell Aspiring Garbage Archaeologist asked, is it common or somewhat out of the ordinary for a baby hippo to be as ornery as Mudang? No shade, I wish I could be as ornery as Mudang in public, they ask. Is Mudang ornery for a young pygmy hippo?
Bell Aspiring Garbage Archaeologist asked, is it common or somewhat out of the ordinary for a baby hippo to be as ornery as Mudang? No shade, I wish I could be as ornery as Mudang in public, they ask. Is Mudang ornery for a young pygmy hippo?
Bell Aspiring Garbage Archaeologist asked, is it common or somewhat out of the ordinary for a baby hippo to be as ornery as Mudang? No shade, I wish I could be as ornery as Mudang in public, they ask. Is Mudang ornery for a young pygmy hippo?
What about... some controversy regarding Mudang. Jennifer Gorgon said, I heard there was some controversy about the treatment of Mudang. Do you have an opinion on the issue? Anna Vilnide wanted to know, would love some professional information. Are caretakers riling up some captive animals for the reactions that visitors want to see, they asked.
What about... some controversy regarding Mudang. Jennifer Gorgon said, I heard there was some controversy about the treatment of Mudang. Do you have an opinion on the issue? Anna Vilnide wanted to know, would love some professional information. Are caretakers riling up some captive animals for the reactions that visitors want to see, they asked.
What about... some controversy regarding Mudang. Jennifer Gorgon said, I heard there was some controversy about the treatment of Mudang. Do you have an opinion on the issue? Anna Vilnide wanted to know, would love some professional information. Are caretakers riling up some captive animals for the reactions that visitors want to see, they asked.
And whether online content being the goal is harming the creatures that we seem to love so much. And Natalie Jones asked, is Mudang doing okay? It seems like having thousands of humans yelling and looking at you a day would mess up a baby's development. Is this a stage mother type of situation that needs intervention?
And whether online content being the goal is harming the creatures that we seem to love so much. And Natalie Jones asked, is Mudang doing okay? It seems like having thousands of humans yelling and looking at you a day would mess up a baby's development. Is this a stage mother type of situation that needs intervention?
And whether online content being the goal is harming the creatures that we seem to love so much. And Natalie Jones asked, is Mudang doing okay? It seems like having thousands of humans yelling and looking at you a day would mess up a baby's development. Is this a stage mother type of situation that needs intervention?
No neck. Hippos are neckless. And so are they foraging the grasses on the banks of rivers or are they coming up on land?
No neck. Hippos are neckless. And so are they foraging the grasses on the banks of rivers or are they coming up on land?
No neck. Hippos are neckless. And so are they foraging the grasses on the banks of rivers or are they coming up on land?
Okay.
Okay.
Okay.
Yeah. Is there any flim flam that you just have to bust that you're like, this is not how it is, other than painting them as absolutely cold-blooded killers who want nothing more than a human's demise?
Yeah. Is there any flim flam that you just have to bust that you're like, this is not how it is, other than painting them as absolutely cold-blooded killers who want nothing more than a human's demise?
Yeah. Is there any flim flam that you just have to bust that you're like, this is not how it is, other than painting them as absolutely cold-blooded killers who want nothing more than a human's demise?
And I asked her all of my very not smart questions as well as yours. If you want to submit a question ahead of time before we record... You can become a patron at patreon.com slash ologies. It costs about 25 cents an episode to join. It helps fund the show.
And I asked her all of my very not smart questions as well as yours. If you want to submit a question ahead of time before we record... You can become a patron at patreon.com slash ologies. It costs about 25 cents an episode to join. It helps fund the show.
And I asked her all of my very not smart questions as well as yours. If you want to submit a question ahead of time before we record... You can become a patron at patreon.com slash ologies. It costs about 25 cents an episode to join. It helps fund the show.
What's the worst thing about being a hippopotamologist?
What's the worst thing about being a hippopotamologist?
What's the worst thing about being a hippopotamologist?
What's your favorite thing about hippos?
What's your favorite thing about hippos?
What's your favorite thing about hippos?
If there were ever one sleeping next to you, would you want to give it a gentle kiss on the nosy?
If there were ever one sleeping next to you, would you want to give it a gentle kiss on the nosy?
If there were ever one sleeping next to you, would you want to give it a gentle kiss on the nosy?
I wonder if they know how much we love them. That is a good question.
I wonder if they know how much we love them. That is a good question.
I wonder if they know how much we love them. That is a good question.
Yeah. This whole episode has convinced me that we're in a toxic relationship with hippos. We're the toxic partner because we fawn over them. We love bomb them. And then we take what they need most. We take their habitat and we spread lies about them and then we slander them. So if anything, if you love hippos, just know you're the toxic one in the relationship. Clean up your act a little bit.
Yeah. This whole episode has convinced me that we're in a toxic relationship with hippos. We're the toxic partner because we fawn over them. We love bomb them. And then we take what they need most. We take their habitat and we spread lies about them and then we slander them. So if anything, if you love hippos, just know you're the toxic one in the relationship. Clean up your act a little bit.
Yeah. This whole episode has convinced me that we're in a toxic relationship with hippos. We're the toxic partner because we fawn over them. We love bomb them. And then we take what they need most. We take their habitat and we spread lies about them and then we slander them. So if anything, if you love hippos, just know you're the toxic one in the relationship. Clean up your act a little bit.
So they have stomped down a little highway that leads to a food court of short grass. It's like a free buffet, but it only serves short grass. If hippos are like the size of a car, a small car, and they're eating just a very particular kind of grass down a long trail, how are they getting enough calories to have so much cake, to have such dump trucks?
So they have stomped down a little highway that leads to a food court of short grass. It's like a free buffet, but it only serves short grass. If hippos are like the size of a car, a small car, and they're eating just a very particular kind of grass down a long trail, how are they getting enough calories to have so much cake, to have such dump trucks?
So they have stomped down a little highway that leads to a food court of short grass. It's like a free buffet, but it only serves short grass. If hippos are like the size of a car, a small car, and they're eating just a very particular kind of grass down a long trail, how are they getting enough calories to have so much cake, to have such dump trucks?
It's you.
It's you.
It's you.
So hippo people, happy to answer questions. And we're so very lucky that Dr. Lewis was amenable to answering ours. Thank you again, Rebecca. And you can find links to her research and lab as well as to the Weichau Community Hippo Sanctuary at the link in the show notes. And we also have a link to our new show, Smologies, which are shorter, kid-friendly, classroom-safe versions of Ologies Classics.
So hippo people, happy to answer questions. And we're so very lucky that Dr. Lewis was amenable to answering ours. Thank you again, Rebecca. And you can find links to her research and lab as well as to the Weichau Community Hippo Sanctuary at the link in the show notes. And we also have a link to our new show, Smologies, which are shorter, kid-friendly, classroom-safe versions of Ologies Classics.
So hippo people, happy to answer questions. And we're so very lucky that Dr. Lewis was amenable to answering ours. Thank you again, Rebecca. And you can find links to her research and lab as well as to the Weichau Community Hippo Sanctuary at the link in the show notes. And we also have a link to our new show, Smologies, which are shorter, kid-friendly, classroom-safe versions of Ologies Classics.
They used to be in this feed, but I bounced them to their own feed. So you can look for that show wherever you get podcasts. It's got new green artwork. We are at Ologies on Blue Sky and Instagram. I'm on there as well as Allie Ward. What's just one L in Allie? Thank you to patrons at patreon.com slash ologies for making this show possible. Ologies merch is available at the link in the show notes.
They used to be in this feed, but I bounced them to their own feed. So you can look for that show wherever you get podcasts. It's got new green artwork. We are at Ologies on Blue Sky and Instagram. I'm on there as well as Allie Ward. What's just one L in Allie? Thank you to patrons at patreon.com slash ologies for making this show possible. Ologies merch is available at the link in the show notes.
They used to be in this feed, but I bounced them to their own feed. So you can look for that show wherever you get podcasts. It's got new green artwork. We are at Ologies on Blue Sky and Instagram. I'm on there as well as Allie Ward. What's just one L in Allie? Thank you to patrons at patreon.com slash ologies for making this show possible. Ologies merch is available at the link in the show notes.
Thank you to Aaron Talbert for admitting the Ologies podcast Facebook group. Love to Mama Kath. Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts. Kelly Ardoire does the website. Noelle Dilworth is our scheduling producer. Susan Hale is the beach master of a managing director. Jake Chafee edits like a
Thank you to Aaron Talbert for admitting the Ologies podcast Facebook group. Love to Mama Kath. Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts. Kelly Ardoire does the website. Noelle Dilworth is our scheduling producer. Susan Hale is the beach master of a managing director. Jake Chafee edits like a
Thank you to Aaron Talbert for admitting the Ologies podcast Facebook group. Love to Mama Kath. Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts. Kelly Ardoire does the website. Noelle Dilworth is our scheduling producer. Susan Hale is the beach master of a managing director. Jake Chafee edits like a
hip pro and the mighty Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio lead edits these into submission every week. Nick Thorburn moaned and honked out the theme music. And if you stick around to the end of the episode, I tell you a secret about my life if you want it. And okay, so this week it's that I wear one of those rings, an aura ring, which I've used for years.
hip pro and the mighty Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio lead edits these into submission every week. Nick Thorburn moaned and honked out the theme music. And if you stick around to the end of the episode, I tell you a secret about my life if you want it. And okay, so this week it's that I wear one of those rings, an aura ring, which I've used for years.
hip pro and the mighty Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio lead edits these into submission every week. Nick Thorburn moaned and honked out the theme music. And if you stick around to the end of the episode, I tell you a secret about my life if you want it. And okay, so this week it's that I wear one of those rings, an aura ring, which I've used for years.
But an aura ring helps track sleep and your steps and stress. And no big shocker, I've started meditating again literally just in the last week. Um, my soul feels like a hairball in a drain over current events. And I can tell on my aura ring that when I do meditate, my heart rate and stress levels go way down. So that is great incentive to like keep at it.
But an aura ring helps track sleep and your steps and stress. And no big shocker, I've started meditating again literally just in the last week. Um, my soul feels like a hairball in a drain over current events. And I can tell on my aura ring that when I do meditate, my heart rate and stress levels go way down. So that is great incentive to like keep at it.
But an aura ring helps track sleep and your steps and stress. And no big shocker, I've started meditating again literally just in the last week. Um, my soul feels like a hairball in a drain over current events. And I can tell on my aura ring that when I do meditate, my heart rate and stress levels go way down. So that is great incentive to like keep at it.
And I was going to tell you guys that is a secret. And I looked at my app today to see like, yeah, it did go down this morning when I meditated, but I also saw this really sharp spike, um, in anxiety today. And I looked and it was like two hours ago and, And I realized it was precisely the time when I spilled a quart of fish soup on my pants and the kitchen floor and inside the fridge.
And I was going to tell you guys that is a secret. And I looked at my app today to see like, yeah, it did go down this morning when I meditated, but I also saw this really sharp spike, um, in anxiety today. And I looked and it was like two hours ago and, And I realized it was precisely the time when I spilled a quart of fish soup on my pants and the kitchen floor and inside the fridge.
And I was going to tell you guys that is a secret. And I looked at my app today to see like, yeah, it did go down this morning when I meditated, but I also saw this really sharp spike, um, in anxiety today. And I looked and it was like two hours ago and, And I realized it was precisely the time when I spilled a quart of fish soup on my pants and the kitchen floor and inside the fridge.
It was like everywhere. And fish soup of all the things. Iced tea, whatever, fine. Fish soup, like, honestly. Anyway, anxiety spike, deep breaths. We're doing our best. We're all doing our best. I hope you enjoy a nice bath today like a hippo would, or you could treat yourself to a big mud salad. Whatever keeps your skin thick and your spirits buoyant. Go do it. Okay. Bye-bye.
It was like everywhere. And fish soup of all the things. Iced tea, whatever, fine. Fish soup, like, honestly. Anyway, anxiety spike, deep breaths. We're doing our best. We're all doing our best. I hope you enjoy a nice bath today like a hippo would, or you could treat yourself to a big mud salad. Whatever keeps your skin thick and your spirits buoyant. Go do it. Okay. Bye-bye.
It was like everywhere. And fish soup of all the things. Iced tea, whatever, fine. Fish soup, like, honestly. Anyway, anxiety spike, deep breaths. We're doing our best. We're all doing our best. I hope you enjoy a nice bath today like a hippo would, or you could treat yourself to a big mud salad. Whatever keeps your skin thick and your spirits buoyant. Go do it. Okay. Bye-bye.
When would you sleep? Would you sleep during the day?
When would you sleep? Would you sleep during the day?
When would you sleep? Would you sleep during the day?
You can also buy ologies merch at ologiesmerch.com or you can support for no dollars by leaving us a review, which helps convince me that I'm not broadcasting to an assortment of dolls in a basement. And I read all your reviews, such as this one from Chris F., who writes, Hippos, hippos. You might know, you probably know that hippopotamus in Latin, it means river horse.
You can also buy ologies merch at ologiesmerch.com or you can support for no dollars by leaving us a review, which helps convince me that I'm not broadcasting to an assortment of dolls in a basement. And I read all your reviews, such as this one from Chris F., who writes, Hippos, hippos. You might know, you probably know that hippopotamus in Latin, it means river horse.
You can also buy ologies merch at ologiesmerch.com or you can support for no dollars by leaving us a review, which helps convince me that I'm not broadcasting to an assortment of dolls in a basement. And I read all your reviews, such as this one from Chris F., who writes, Hippos, hippos. You might know, you probably know that hippopotamus in Latin, it means river horse.
What happens if you're asleep on top of a Land Rover watching hippos and an elephant wakes you up? That's a good question.
What happens if you're asleep on top of a Land Rover watching hippos and an elephant wakes you up? That's a good question.
What happens if you're asleep on top of a Land Rover watching hippos and an elephant wakes you up? That's a good question.
Did you think you were dreaming for one second?
Did you think you were dreaming for one second?
Did you think you were dreaming for one second?
Just a normal day on the job for a hippo ecologist. So you're absolutely in a safari park of life or you're surrounded by something that sounds like a fever dream. What are you doing when you're watching them at night? Are you taking notes like this one went and did a poop on this one or this one seems to be crying? I know.
Just a normal day on the job for a hippo ecologist. So you're absolutely in a safari park of life or you're surrounded by something that sounds like a fever dream. What are you doing when you're watching them at night? Are you taking notes like this one went and did a poop on this one or this one seems to be crying? I know.
Just a normal day on the job for a hippo ecologist. So you're absolutely in a safari park of life or you're surrounded by something that sounds like a fever dream. What are you doing when you're watching them at night? Are you taking notes like this one went and did a poop on this one or this one seems to be crying? I know.
And so when we see hippos in zoos, they are opening their gaping maws and a whole pumpkin goes in. But do they have that kind of experience ever in the wild?
And so when we see hippos in zoos, they are opening their gaping maws and a whole pumpkin goes in. But do they have that kind of experience ever in the wild?
And so when we see hippos in zoos, they are opening their gaping maws and a whole pumpkin goes in. But do they have that kind of experience ever in the wild?
How long do they live? You said they live a long time?
How long do they live? You said they live a long time?
How long do they live? You said they live a long time?
Okay. They're horses of the river, right? Like water horses? Yes. How are they extracting calories from a bunch of grass? Do they have stomachs like hippos? I mean, stomachs like horses?
Okay. They're horses of the river, right? Like water horses? Yes. How are they extracting calories from a bunch of grass? Do they have stomachs like hippos? I mean, stomachs like horses?
Okay. They're horses of the river, right? Like water horses? Yes. How are they extracting calories from a bunch of grass? Do they have stomachs like hippos? I mean, stomachs like horses?
So if you're a hippo doing your thing, it's say a Thursday and you're eating an average of 75 pounds of mowed grass, which is about two huge garbage bags full of lawn clippings per day. So much salad. Your favorite dressing, I guess, is mud. There's no croutons. Maybe you got some accidental worms in there, but you're eating dirt grass. It's the breakfast of champions. It's the lunch of champions.
So if you're a hippo doing your thing, it's say a Thursday and you're eating an average of 75 pounds of mowed grass, which is about two huge garbage bags full of lawn clippings per day. So much salad. Your favorite dressing, I guess, is mud. There's no croutons. Maybe you got some accidental worms in there, but you're eating dirt grass. It's the breakfast of champions. It's the lunch of champions.
So if you're a hippo doing your thing, it's say a Thursday and you're eating an average of 75 pounds of mowed grass, which is about two huge garbage bags full of lawn clippings per day. So much salad. Your favorite dressing, I guess, is mud. There's no croutons. Maybe you got some accidental worms in there, but you're eating dirt grass. It's the breakfast of champions. It's the lunch of champions.
It's the dinner of champions. How many pounds are we talking of hippo?
It's the dinner of champions. How many pounds are we talking of hippo?
It's the dinner of champions. How many pounds are we talking of hippo?
In the wild. And then pygmy hippos, by contrast. Pygmy hippos, by contrast, are about 400 to... So there are only two species of hippopotamuses or hippopotami. Either word is legit and fine. I thought there were maybe 10 species of hippopotamus, but there are two. The common big-ass hippo that you're used to is a hippopotamus amphibius, and then there's the pygmy hippo, Coeropsis liberiensis.
In the wild. And then pygmy hippos, by contrast. Pygmy hippos, by contrast, are about 400 to... So there are only two species of hippopotamuses or hippopotami. Either word is legit and fine. I thought there were maybe 10 species of hippopotamus, but there are two. The common big-ass hippo that you're used to is a hippopotamus amphibius, and then there's the pygmy hippo, Coeropsis liberiensis.
In the wild. And then pygmy hippos, by contrast. Pygmy hippos, by contrast, are about 400 to... So there are only two species of hippopotamuses or hippopotami. Either word is legit and fine. I thought there were maybe 10 species of hippopotamus, but there are two. The common big-ass hippo that you're used to is a hippopotamus amphibius, and then there's the pygmy hippo, Coeropsis liberiensis.
You don't need to know those names, but there's just two species. And pygmy hippos are one-sixth the size of a regular hippo or a common hippo.
You don't need to know those names, but there's just two species. And pygmy hippos are one-sixth the size of a regular hippo or a common hippo.
You don't need to know those names, but there's just two species. And pygmy hippos are one-sixth the size of a regular hippo or a common hippo.
That's kind of like a pig, right? A big pig.
That's kind of like a pig, right? A big pig.
That's kind of like a pig, right? A big pig.
Wait, how come I didn't know about pygmy hippos until now?
Wait, how come I didn't know about pygmy hippos until now?
Wait, how come I didn't know about pygmy hippos until now?
Whereas the big hippos that you're used to are just like here. They're like, I'm in the river. What's up?
Whereas the big hippos that you're used to are just like here. They're like, I'm in the river. What's up?
Whereas the big hippos that you're used to are just like here. They're like, I'm in the river. What's up?
No.
No.
No.
If you didn't know that, I'm going to give you a second. It's hippo means horse, potamus means of the river, hippopotamus, river horse, these beasts. They are artidactyls, meaning that they have an even number of toes, like a bison or a deer and a giraffe. Those are all in artidactyls.
If you didn't know that, I'm going to give you a second. It's hippo means horse, potamus means of the river, hippopotamus, river horse, these beasts. They are artidactyls, meaning that they have an even number of toes, like a bison or a deer and a giraffe. Those are all in artidactyls.
If you didn't know that, I'm going to give you a second. It's hippo means horse, potamus means of the river, hippopotamus, river horse, these beasts. They are artidactyls, meaning that they have an even number of toes, like a bison or a deer and a giraffe. Those are all in artidactyls.
These little big babies, they live in Northwest Africa in forests. They keep to themselves. They come out at night like Mothman, and they're little. They're like farmhog size. As for how long humans have been, like, gazing at them from behind a fence, according to this 1972 paper, The Care and Breeding of the Pygmy Hippopotamus in Captivity says,
These little big babies, they live in Northwest Africa in forests. They keep to themselves. They come out at night like Mothman, and they're little. They're like farmhog size. As for how long humans have been, like, gazing at them from behind a fence, according to this 1972 paper, The Care and Breeding of the Pygmy Hippopotamus in Captivity says,
These little big babies, they live in Northwest Africa in forests. They keep to themselves. They come out at night like Mothman, and they're little. They're like farmhog size. As for how long humans have been, like, gazing at them from behind a fence, according to this 1972 paper, The Care and Breeding of the Pygmy Hippopotamus in Captivity says,
The first time they were introduced into captivity was in 1873 in a Dublin zoo. And I was looking to try to find out more about that. But instead, I stumbled upon an article about a Scottish zoo who just a few months ago welcomed the birth of a baby girl pygmy hippo. And then they made the decision to name her Haggis. In all fairness, she does resemble kind of a gray lump made of skin.
The first time they were introduced into captivity was in 1873 in a Dublin zoo. And I was looking to try to find out more about that. But instead, I stumbled upon an article about a Scottish zoo who just a few months ago welcomed the birth of a baby girl pygmy hippo. And then they made the decision to name her Haggis. In all fairness, she does resemble kind of a gray lump made of skin.
The first time they were introduced into captivity was in 1873 in a Dublin zoo. And I was looking to try to find out more about that. But instead, I stumbled upon an article about a Scottish zoo who just a few months ago welcomed the birth of a baby girl pygmy hippo. And then they made the decision to name her Haggis. In all fairness, she does resemble kind of a gray lump made of skin.
But they didn't have to go there. But yeah, the people, they want the baby pygmy hippos. With little sign that Mudung fever is waning, it seems this bouncy pig is more than earning her keep. Forced out of their land and hunted to near extinction in the wild, but in captivity, absolute slay.
But they didn't have to go there. But yeah, the people, they want the baby pygmy hippos. With little sign that Mudung fever is waning, it seems this bouncy pig is more than earning her keep. Forced out of their land and hunted to near extinction in the wild, but in captivity, absolute slay.
But they didn't have to go there. But yeah, the people, they want the baby pygmy hippos. With little sign that Mudung fever is waning, it seems this bouncy pig is more than earning her keep. Forced out of their land and hunted to near extinction in the wild, but in captivity, absolute slay.
Oh, that's got to be infuriating for you.
Oh, that's got to be infuriating for you.
Oh, that's got to be infuriating for you.
Oh, hey, it's the guy at the library with that stack of survival books. Allie Ward, let's talk about your thyroid. Do you still have one? If not, let's talk about how it did you dirty. Metabolism, libido, sweating, freezing. You're in the right place for all of it. So I went to New York because I'm sophisticated.
Oh, hey, it's the guy at the library with that stack of survival books. Allie Ward, let's talk about your thyroid. Do you still have one? If not, let's talk about how it did you dirty. Metabolism, libido, sweating, freezing. You're in the right place for all of it. So I went to New York because I'm sophisticated.
Oh, hey, it's the guy at the library with that stack of survival books. Allie Ward, let's talk about your thyroid. Do you still have one? If not, let's talk about how it did you dirty. Metabolism, libido, sweating, freezing. You're in the right place for all of it. So I went to New York because I'm sophisticated.
Positive Steps PDX, it's a joy to introduce the audience to all manner of ologists across all kinds of fields, including your thyroid. Now, thyroidology comes from the Greek thyrodidae. It means shield-shaped, and that refers to the Adam's apple of the throat, which is thyroid cartilage, and then the endocrine gland underneath it that provides hormones that keep your engine running.
Positive Steps PDX, it's a joy to introduce the audience to all manner of ologists across all kinds of fields, including your thyroid. Now, thyroidology comes from the Greek thyrodidae. It means shield-shaped, and that refers to the Adam's apple of the throat, which is thyroid cartilage, and then the endocrine gland underneath it that provides hormones that keep your engine running.
Positive Steps PDX, it's a joy to introduce the audience to all manner of ologists across all kinds of fields, including your thyroid. Now, thyroidology comes from the Greek thyrodidae. It means shield-shaped, and that refers to the Adam's apple of the throat, which is thyroid cartilage, and then the endocrine gland underneath it that provides hormones that keep your engine running.
If you discovered a thyroid disease and they called it Patel's, and then everyone complained about having Patel's, would you be like, I'll never be forgotten in my field? Or would you be like, bummer that my name is Patel's synonymous?
If you discovered a thyroid disease and they called it Patel's, and then everyone complained about having Patel's, would you be like, I'll never be forgotten in my field? Or would you be like, bummer that my name is Patel's synonymous?
If you discovered a thyroid disease and they called it Patel's, and then everyone complained about having Patel's, would you be like, I'll never be forgotten in my field? Or would you be like, bummer that my name is Patel's synonymous?
Call a little column A, column B. Exactly. Well, okay. I have heard stories of people being diagnosed with thyroid disease just by someone seeing them like across the room or on TV. I don't know if you remember there was a story where someone... Oh, yeah. Do you remember that story?
Call a little column A, column B. Exactly. Well, okay. I have heard stories of people being diagnosed with thyroid disease just by someone seeing them like across the room or on TV. I don't know if you remember there was a story where someone... Oh, yeah. Do you remember that story?
Call a little column A, column B. Exactly. Well, okay. I have heard stories of people being diagnosed with thyroid disease just by someone seeing them like across the room or on TV. I don't know if you remember there was a story where someone... Oh, yeah. Do you remember that story?
Someone was on TV and someone was like... I probably want to get your thyroid checked. And they had a thyroid issue.
Someone was on TV and someone was like... I probably want to get your thyroid checked. And they had a thyroid issue.
Someone was on TV and someone was like... I probably want to get your thyroid checked. And they had a thyroid issue.
Stop it.
Stop it.
Stop it.
And then she got treated, right?
And then she got treated, right?
And then she got treated, right?
So for Nicole McGinnis, being on Beachfront Bargain Hunt saved her life, while having a doctor watch Beachfront Bargain Hunt saved her life. What an anomaly, right? How often would someone be watching an HGTV show and notice thyroid cancer? It's like one in a million, one in a billion. Wait, what? No, hold on.
So for Nicole McGinnis, being on Beachfront Bargain Hunt saved her life, while having a doctor watch Beachfront Bargain Hunt saved her life. What an anomaly, right? How often would someone be watching an HGTV show and notice thyroid cancer? It's like one in a million, one in a billion. Wait, what? No, hold on.
So for Nicole McGinnis, being on Beachfront Bargain Hunt saved her life, while having a doctor watch Beachfront Bargain Hunt saved her life. What an anomaly, right? How often would someone be watching an HGTV show and notice thyroid cancer? It's like one in a million, one in a billion. Wait, what? No, hold on.
Okay, I was fact-checking Nicole's story, and I found out maybe this was apocryphal, maybe this was wrong, because it was actually HGTV personality Tarek El Moussa who had thyroid cancer, and it was a nurse who spotted his enlarged gland.
Okay, I was fact-checking Nicole's story, and I found out maybe this was apocryphal, maybe this was wrong, because it was actually HGTV personality Tarek El Moussa who had thyroid cancer, and it was a nurse who spotted his enlarged gland.
Okay, I was fact-checking Nicole's story, and I found out maybe this was apocryphal, maybe this was wrong, because it was actually HGTV personality Tarek El Moussa who had thyroid cancer, and it was a nurse who spotted his enlarged gland.
Wait, what? What? Okay. I went on a deep dive about the health of a guy on HGTV. Turns out both of those stories are right. Nicole and Tarek, different shows, different thyroids, both on HGTV. So in addition to that lady looking for the cheap seaside cottage, Tarek El Moussa, co-host of HGTV's Flip or Flop, found out that he had thyroid cancer from that viewer's heads up.
Wait, what? What? Okay. I went on a deep dive about the health of a guy on HGTV. Turns out both of those stories are right. Nicole and Tarek, different shows, different thyroids, both on HGTV. So in addition to that lady looking for the cheap seaside cottage, Tarek El Moussa, co-host of HGTV's Flip or Flop, found out that he had thyroid cancer from that viewer's heads up.
Wait, what? What? Okay. I went on a deep dive about the health of a guy on HGTV. Turns out both of those stories are right. Nicole and Tarek, different shows, different thyroids, both on HGTV. So in addition to that lady looking for the cheap seaside cottage, Tarek El Moussa, co-host of HGTV's Flip or Flop, found out that he had thyroid cancer from that viewer's heads up.
And this is after he'd been seeing a doctor for a while, trying to figure out why his throat hurt and was tight. And his doctor just kept brushing it aside as like allergies. Turns out it wasn't hay fever. It was stage two cancer having spread to his nearby lymph nodes. He had to get the thyroid removed and undergo radioactive iodine therapy, which we'll discuss in a bit.
And this is after he'd been seeing a doctor for a while, trying to figure out why his throat hurt and was tight. And his doctor just kept brushing it aside as like allergies. Turns out it wasn't hay fever. It was stage two cancer having spread to his nearby lymph nodes. He had to get the thyroid removed and undergo radioactive iodine therapy, which we'll discuss in a bit.
And this is after he'd been seeing a doctor for a while, trying to figure out why his throat hurt and was tight. And his doctor just kept brushing it aside as like allergies. Turns out it wasn't hay fever. It was stage two cancer having spread to his nearby lymph nodes. He had to get the thyroid removed and undergo radioactive iodine therapy, which we'll discuss in a bit.
And then unrelated, side note, Tarek's old doctor also was like, don't worry about that lump in your scrote. It's probably nothing. But it turned out it was testicular cancer unrelated to the thyroid cancer at the same time, at which point I'd want to sue my doctor or my endocrine system or both of them.
And then unrelated, side note, Tarek's old doctor also was like, don't worry about that lump in your scrote. It's probably nothing. But it turned out it was testicular cancer unrelated to the thyroid cancer at the same time, at which point I'd want to sue my doctor or my endocrine system or both of them.
And then unrelated, side note, Tarek's old doctor also was like, don't worry about that lump in your scrote. It's probably nothing. But it turned out it was testicular cancer unrelated to the thyroid cancer at the same time, at which point I'd want to sue my doctor or my endocrine system or both of them.
Now, for the testicular stuff, it's not something that a doctor on the subway or something would notice in passing, hopefully, depending on what kind of vibe you're running. But as for a goiter or an enlarged thyroid, do you ever notice that on people?
Now, for the testicular stuff, it's not something that a doctor on the subway or something would notice in passing, hopefully, depending on what kind of vibe you're running. But as for a goiter or an enlarged thyroid, do you ever notice that on people?
Now, for the testicular stuff, it's not something that a doctor on the subway or something would notice in passing, hopefully, depending on what kind of vibe you're running. But as for a goiter or an enlarged thyroid, do you ever notice that on people?
So let's get to it. Let's figure out just what the hell is happening with that lump in your throat.
So let's get to it. Let's figure out just what the hell is happening with that lump in your throat.
So let's get to it. Let's figure out just what the hell is happening with that lump in your throat.
Does it cover the Adam's apple?
Does it cover the Adam's apple?
Does it cover the Adam's apple?
And if maybe it's making you depressed or cold or tired or sweaty or shaky or hot, when to ask your doctor to check it, how to decipher labs, as well as info on radioactive cats, stress and thyroids, surviving a nuclear bomb, how diet can affect your thyroid, flim flam, and how being on TV might save your life.
And if maybe it's making you depressed or cold or tired or sweaty or shaky or hot, when to ask your doctor to check it, how to decipher labs, as well as info on radioactive cats, stress and thyroids, surviving a nuclear bomb, how diet can affect your thyroid, flim flam, and how being on TV might save your life.
And if maybe it's making you depressed or cold or tired or sweaty or shaky or hot, when to ask your doctor to check it, how to decipher labs, as well as info on radioactive cats, stress and thyroids, surviving a nuclear bomb, how diet can affect your thyroid, flim flam, and how being on TV might save your life.
So according to the 2020 paper, Iodine Deficiency and Goiter in the Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 75% of people with goiter live in less developed countries where iodine deficiency is prevalent. And this prevalence of goiter is most common in mountainous areas, including the Himalayas and the Andes, where there is significant iodine deficiency.
So according to the 2020 paper, Iodine Deficiency and Goiter in the Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 75% of people with goiter live in less developed countries where iodine deficiency is prevalent. And this prevalence of goiter is most common in mountainous areas, including the Himalayas and the Andes, where there is significant iodine deficiency.
So according to the 2020 paper, Iodine Deficiency and Goiter in the Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 75% of people with goiter live in less developed countries where iodine deficiency is prevalent. And this prevalence of goiter is most common in mountainous areas, including the Himalayas and the Andes, where there is significant iodine deficiency.
That's like a higher percentage of kids mewing in class.
That's like a higher percentage of kids mewing in class.
That's like a higher percentage of kids mewing in class.
Yes.
Yes.
Yes.
Yeah. Well, first off, is it goiter or goiters?
Yeah. Well, first off, is it goiter or goiters?
Yeah. Well, first off, is it goiter or goiters?
Okay. There's no goiters.
Okay. There's no goiters.
Okay. There's no goiters.
Okay, got it. I guess you can't have more than one.
Okay, got it. I guess you can't have more than one.
Okay, got it. I guess you can't have more than one.
Yes. Have those changed in rates historically? Have we seen epidemics of goiter? What causes those?
Yes. Have those changed in rates historically? Have we seen epidemics of goiter? What causes those?
Yes. Have those changed in rates historically? Have we seen epidemics of goiter? What causes those?
So the goiter belt, on trend for the Midwest in the 1920s, but has since, thankfully, gone out of fashion. Now, when you see iodized salt, you can say, hey, thanks, goiter buster. That's why you're iodized. But don't overdo the salt, and don't panic if you use uniodized kosher or sea salt. Chances are you have enough in the small amounts you're getting.
So the goiter belt, on trend for the Midwest in the 1920s, but has since, thankfully, gone out of fashion. Now, when you see iodized salt, you can say, hey, thanks, goiter buster. That's why you're iodized. But don't overdo the salt, and don't panic if you use uniodized kosher or sea salt. Chances are you have enough in the small amounts you're getting.
So the goiter belt, on trend for the Midwest in the 1920s, but has since, thankfully, gone out of fashion. Now, when you see iodized salt, you can say, hey, thanks, goiter buster. That's why you're iodized. But don't overdo the salt, and don't panic if you use uniodized kosher or sea salt. Chances are you have enough in the small amounts you're getting.
Please also remember, however, that we can neither diagnose nor treat you because this is a free audio show. we don't have access to your neck or your blood. Don't be weird about this. Do be excited. So let's hear from surgeon, professor, endocrinology specialist, and thyroidologist, Dr. Kapil Patel.
Please also remember, however, that we can neither diagnose nor treat you because this is a free audio show. we don't have access to your neck or your blood. Don't be weird about this. Do be excited. So let's hear from surgeon, professor, endocrinology specialist, and thyroidologist, Dr. Kapil Patel.
Please also remember, however, that we can neither diagnose nor treat you because this is a free audio show. we don't have access to your neck or your blood. Don't be weird about this. Do be excited. So let's hear from surgeon, professor, endocrinology specialist, and thyroidologist, Dr. Kapil Patel.
Is the thyroid trying to compensate by enlarging in tissue size? What's going on?
Is the thyroid trying to compensate by enlarging in tissue size? What's going on?
Is the thyroid trying to compensate by enlarging in tissue size? What's going on?
Hypertrophy, hyper means it's growing bigger.
Hypertrophy, hyper means it's growing bigger.
Hypertrophy, hyper means it's growing bigger.
And if you add iodine to someone's diet, does it just shrink down or does it need a surgical intervention?
And if you add iodine to someone's diet, does it just shrink down or does it need a surgical intervention?
And if you add iodine to someone's diet, does it just shrink down or does it need a surgical intervention?
I've always thought that it would just shrink. This is why you're a surgeon and I'm not. But are certain populations, let's say you're a seafaring person or you're a fishmonger on a coast, do you ever see increases in iodine and therefore hyperthyroidism?
I've always thought that it would just shrink. This is why you're a surgeon and I'm not. But are certain populations, let's say you're a seafaring person or you're a fishmonger on a coast, do you ever see increases in iodine and therefore hyperthyroidism?
I've always thought that it would just shrink. This is why you're a surgeon and I'm not. But are certain populations, let's say you're a seafaring person or you're a fishmonger on a coast, do you ever see increases in iodine and therefore hyperthyroidism?
But again, if you're low on that thyroid hormone in your body, that T4 and thus T3, what about hormone replacement? I've heard Synthroid. I've also heard that sometimes they take desiccated pig thyroid. And there are two camps. And some people are very much like, don't give me the fake stuff. And other people are like, that pig stuff, you never know what you're getting.
But again, if you're low on that thyroid hormone in your body, that T4 and thus T3, what about hormone replacement? I've heard Synthroid. I've also heard that sometimes they take desiccated pig thyroid. And there are two camps. And some people are very much like, don't give me the fake stuff. And other people are like, that pig stuff, you never know what you're getting.
But again, if you're low on that thyroid hormone in your body, that T4 and thus T3, what about hormone replacement? I've heard Synthroid. I've also heard that sometimes they take desiccated pig thyroid. And there are two camps. And some people are very much like, don't give me the fake stuff. And other people are like, that pig stuff, you never know what you're getting.
And also your favorite diabetic, diabetologist, Dr. Mike Natter was getting married to his bride, Alice. And whilst there, NYU Langone Hospital hooked it up with a thyroid expert and a surgeon who who was more than game to answer all my questions about this little hormonal organ that rules our lives.
And also your favorite diabetic, diabetologist, Dr. Mike Natter was getting married to his bride, Alice. And whilst there, NYU Langone Hospital hooked it up with a thyroid expert and a surgeon who who was more than game to answer all my questions about this little hormonal organ that rules our lives.
And also your favorite diabetic, diabetologist, Dr. Mike Natter was getting married to his bride, Alice. And whilst there, NYU Langone Hospital hooked it up with a thyroid expert and a surgeon who who was more than game to answer all my questions about this little hormonal organ that rules our lives.
So remember, T4 is what the thyroid pumps out naturally, and then it's up to your body to convert it to T3. As for what your body is making and what medications might work best on you, if you're hypothyroid, there's that levothyroxine or the natural desiccated thyroid made from pigs. It's just what it sounds like. It's from ground-up pig parts.
So remember, T4 is what the thyroid pumps out naturally, and then it's up to your body to convert it to T3. As for what your body is making and what medications might work best on you, if you're hypothyroid, there's that levothyroxine or the natural desiccated thyroid made from pigs. It's just what it sounds like. It's from ground-up pig parts.
So remember, T4 is what the thyroid pumps out naturally, and then it's up to your body to convert it to T3. As for what your body is making and what medications might work best on you, if you're hypothyroid, there's that levothyroxine or the natural desiccated thyroid made from pigs. It's just what it sounds like. It's from ground-up pig parts.
Now, I have had some thyroid problems in the past that have now resolved, but I did take desiccated pig thyroid for a while. And it has kind of a subtle flavor, kind of like a boiled pork chop water. Why put it in your mouth, you're asking the universe? Well, a 2024 Frontiers in Endocrinology paper titled, inquisitively, Natural Desiccated Thyroid for the Treatment of Hypothyroidism,
Now, I have had some thyroid problems in the past that have now resolved, but I did take desiccated pig thyroid for a while. And it has kind of a subtle flavor, kind of like a boiled pork chop water. Why put it in your mouth, you're asking the universe? Well, a 2024 Frontiers in Endocrinology paper titled, inquisitively, Natural Desiccated Thyroid for the Treatment of Hypothyroidism,
Now, I have had some thyroid problems in the past that have now resolved, but I did take desiccated pig thyroid for a while. And it has kind of a subtle flavor, kind of like a boiled pork chop water. Why put it in your mouth, you're asking the universe? Well, a 2024 Frontiers in Endocrinology paper titled, inquisitively, Natural Desiccated Thyroid for the Treatment of Hypothyroidism,
noted that people with hypothyroidism who don't respond to levothyroxine, T4, are prescribed a natural desiccated thyroid preparation, which contains that mixture of T4 and T3. But it could vary between batches. You're not quite sure what you're getting.
noted that people with hypothyroidism who don't respond to levothyroxine, T4, are prescribed a natural desiccated thyroid preparation, which contains that mixture of T4 and T3. But it could vary between batches. You're not quite sure what you're getting.
noted that people with hypothyroidism who don't respond to levothyroxine, T4, are prescribed a natural desiccated thyroid preparation, which contains that mixture of T4 and T3. But it could vary between batches. You're not quite sure what you're getting.
And so that natural desiccated thyroid may be better for some patients with hypothyroidism, but it's not the first go-to for doctors in the U.S., especially because it's technically not greenlit by the FDA. And it may not be right for some people who have heart disease or thyroid cancers or diabetes.
And so that natural desiccated thyroid may be better for some patients with hypothyroidism, but it's not the first go-to for doctors in the U.S., especially because it's technically not greenlit by the FDA. And it may not be right for some people who have heart disease or thyroid cancers or diabetes.
And so that natural desiccated thyroid may be better for some patients with hypothyroidism, but it's not the first go-to for doctors in the U.S., especially because it's technically not greenlit by the FDA. And it may not be right for some people who have heart disease or thyroid cancers or diabetes.
And if crunched up pork thyroid is not for you, the paper does offer the suggestion of bovine thyroid for individuals who, for religious or cultural reasons, don't eat pork. Still not vegan.
And if crunched up pork thyroid is not for you, the paper does offer the suggestion of bovine thyroid for individuals who, for religious or cultural reasons, don't eat pork. Still not vegan.
And if crunched up pork thyroid is not for you, the paper does offer the suggestion of bovine thyroid for individuals who, for religious or cultural reasons, don't eat pork. Still not vegan.
Yeah.
Yeah.
Yeah.
Okay. What about infections? Like, does Epstein-Barr have an effect on thyroid? Does COVID have an effect on thyroid? Or is that just part of the, like, an autoimmune response? Yeah.
Okay. What about infections? Like, does Epstein-Barr have an effect on thyroid? Does COVID have an effect on thyroid? Or is that just part of the, like, an autoimmune response? Yeah.
Okay. What about infections? Like, does Epstein-Barr have an effect on thyroid? Does COVID have an effect on thyroid? Or is that just part of the, like, an autoimmune response? Yeah.
EBV or the Epstein-Barr virus is mono, aka the kissing disease, which in my case, you can get in your 20s without even kissing anyone, but by sipping a friend of a friend's plum wine at a party and then regretting it for the rest of your life, which is how long EBV stays in your body.
EBV or the Epstein-Barr virus is mono, aka the kissing disease, which in my case, you can get in your 20s without even kissing anyone, but by sipping a friend of a friend's plum wine at a party and then regretting it for the rest of your life, which is how long EBV stays in your body.
EBV or the Epstein-Barr virus is mono, aka the kissing disease, which in my case, you can get in your 20s without even kissing anyone, but by sipping a friend of a friend's plum wine at a party and then regretting it for the rest of your life, which is how long EBV stays in your body.
And I'll have you just kind of hold it like an ice cream cone. Like if you were a standup or doing karaoke.
And I'll have you just kind of hold it like an ice cream cone. Like if you were a standup or doing karaoke.
And I'll have you just kind of hold it like an ice cream cone. Like if you were a standup or doing karaoke.
Hyper?
Hyper?
Hyper?
Really?
Really?
Really?
So can an autoimmune response happen kind of with any exposure to a virus that just says, hey, immune system, like, let's kick into gear?
So can an autoimmune response happen kind of with any exposure to a virus that just says, hey, immune system, like, let's kick into gear?
So can an autoimmune response happen kind of with any exposure to a virus that just says, hey, immune system, like, let's kick into gear?
Yeah. A hundred percent. Apologies in advance. Okay. First off. Do I have an awful thyroid? I feel like that must be the question everyone asks you. Does my thyroid messed up must be something that you get constantly?
Yeah. A hundred percent. Apologies in advance. Okay. First off. Do I have an awful thyroid? I feel like that must be the question everyone asks you. Does my thyroid messed up must be something that you get constantly?
Yeah. A hundred percent. Apologies in advance. Okay. First off. Do I have an awful thyroid? I feel like that must be the question everyone asks you. Does my thyroid messed up must be something that you get constantly?
I used to drink my tea out of a plastic cup from the 99 cent store. Hot tea. Sometimes I think, wow, that was a terrible decision I didn't realize I was making every day. Sure, that cup didn't break, but my body did.
I used to drink my tea out of a plastic cup from the 99 cent store. Hot tea. Sometimes I think, wow, that was a terrible decision I didn't realize I was making every day. Sure, that cup didn't break, but my body did.
I used to drink my tea out of a plastic cup from the 99 cent store. Hot tea. Sometimes I think, wow, that was a terrible decision I didn't realize I was making every day. Sure, that cup didn't break, but my body did.
Oh, yeah, it's fine. Absolutely fine.
Oh, yeah, it's fine. Absolutely fine.
Oh, yeah, it's fine. Absolutely fine.
What about nodules? When I think of thyroid nodules, I think of little lumps and beads, and I'm like, do you pop them? What are they exactly? Exactly.
What about nodules? When I think of thyroid nodules, I think of little lumps and beads, and I'm like, do you pop them? What are they exactly? Exactly.
What about nodules? When I think of thyroid nodules, I think of little lumps and beads, and I'm like, do you pop them? What are they exactly? Exactly.
Thyroid nodules.
Thyroid nodules.
Thyroid nodules.
And what do you do? Do you stick a needle in there and check it out?
And what do you do? Do you stick a needle in there and check it out?
And what do you do? Do you stick a needle in there and check it out?
Okay.
Okay.
Okay.
What's under the microscope when you squirt out whatever was in the needle?
What's under the microscope when you squirt out whatever was in the needle?
What's under the microscope when you squirt out whatever was in the needle?
So if it's benign, they'll keep checking maybe a couple times a year. But what if it's not great news?
So if it's benign, they'll keep checking maybe a couple times a year. But what if it's not great news?
So if it's benign, they'll keep checking maybe a couple times a year. But what if it's not great news?
Do you numb it up before you put the needle in there?
Do you numb it up before you put the needle in there?
Do you numb it up before you put the needle in there?
Oh.
Oh.
Oh.
Is it somewhere in between a blood needle and like an acupuncture situation?
Is it somewhere in between a blood needle and like an acupuncture situation?
Is it somewhere in between a blood needle and like an acupuncture situation?
Yeah.
Yeah.
Yeah.
Oh, so don't freak out if you get a nodule.
Oh, so don't freak out if you get a nodule.
Oh, so don't freak out if you get a nodule.
Yeah. And you said, what percentage would you say are benign versus?
Yeah. And you said, what percentage would you say are benign versus?
Yeah. And you said, what percentage would you say are benign versus?
That's what I thought you said, and then I thought there's no way I could have heard that right. Okay.
That's what I thought you said, and then I thought there's no way I could have heard that right. Okay.
That's what I thought you said, and then I thought there's no way I could have heard that right. Okay.
But you want to get them checked out in case they are, because that is not a good situation if they are.
But you want to get them checked out in case they are, because that is not a good situation if they are.
But you want to get them checked out in case they are, because that is not a good situation if they are.
When it comes to getting them out, do you just remove the nodule or do you have to take a chunk of thyroid?
When it comes to getting them out, do you just remove the nodule or do you have to take a chunk of thyroid?
When it comes to getting them out, do you just remove the nodule or do you have to take a chunk of thyroid?
I figured these are things either you think about when you're in the room or you're taking the subway home and you go-
I figured these are things either you think about when you're in the room or you're taking the subway home and you go-
I figured these are things either you think about when you're in the room or you're taking the subway home and you go-
So you can't pluck a thyroid nodule out like a pearl in an oyster. Doesn't work that way. That's news to me.
So you can't pluck a thyroid nodule out like a pearl in an oyster. Doesn't work that way. That's news to me.
So you can't pluck a thyroid nodule out like a pearl in an oyster. Doesn't work that way. That's news to me.
oh, I know people probably want to keep the nodule. Are you ever like, sorry, buddy, I got to send this down to the lab?
oh, I know people probably want to keep the nodule. Are you ever like, sorry, buddy, I got to send this down to the lab?
oh, I know people probably want to keep the nodule. Are you ever like, sorry, buddy, I got to send this down to the lab?
I mean, I recently had a hysterectomy and I was like, how much of this can I keep in a jar? And they're like, absolutely none of it.
I mean, I recently had a hysterectomy and I was like, how much of this can I keep in a jar? And they're like, absolutely none of it.
I mean, I recently had a hysterectomy and I was like, how much of this can I keep in a jar? And they're like, absolutely none of it.
I was like, it was mine 10 minutes ago.
I was like, it was mine 10 minutes ago.
I was like, it was mine 10 minutes ago.
That's nice. What percentage of people are like, take a snap, doc.
That's nice. What percentage of people are like, take a snap, doc.
That's nice. What percentage of people are like, take a snap, doc.
Yeah, I would want to see. It's mine after all.
Yeah, I would want to see. It's mine after all.
Yeah, I would want to see. It's mine after all.
I think that's helpful. It's like when a mechanic is like, look at how bad your brake pads are. Exactly. Well, that's a good thing you should have done it. What about, let me see, thyroid cancer. What causes the nodules? What causes a malignancy? Does thyroid cancer typically start as a nodule?
I think that's helpful. It's like when a mechanic is like, look at how bad your brake pads are. Exactly. Well, that's a good thing you should have done it. What about, let me see, thyroid cancer. What causes the nodules? What causes a malignancy? Does thyroid cancer typically start as a nodule?
I think that's helpful. It's like when a mechanic is like, look at how bad your brake pads are. Exactly. Well, that's a good thing you should have done it. What about, let me see, thyroid cancer. What causes the nodules? What causes a malignancy? Does thyroid cancer typically start as a nodule?
Okay. Got it. So it's not, there's not a different kind of like spider webby cancer that starts.
Okay. Got it. So it's not, there's not a different kind of like spider webby cancer that starts.
Okay. Got it. So it's not, there's not a different kind of like spider webby cancer that starts.
Like the woman shopping for the beach house on HGTV.
Like the woman shopping for the beach house on HGTV.
Like the woman shopping for the beach house on HGTV.
Okay, so most people with thyroid cancer have a very treatable papillary type. Now, anaplastic, that's dicier, it's pretty dangerous. What happens if a person gets that diagnosis?
Okay, so most people with thyroid cancer have a very treatable papillary type. Now, anaplastic, that's dicier, it's pretty dangerous. What happens if a person gets that diagnosis?
Okay, so most people with thyroid cancer have a very treatable papillary type. Now, anaplastic, that's dicier, it's pretty dangerous. What happens if a person gets that diagnosis?
Wow. You know, with the earthquake in Japan in, I want to say 2010. Yeah. March 2011. My bad. There was a 9.0 undersea earthquake that led to a seaside nuclear reactor disaster. It was rated 7 out of 7 on the International Nuclear Event Scale. The worst since the Chernobyl disaster in 1986, which also ranked a 7.
Wow. You know, with the earthquake in Japan in, I want to say 2010. Yeah. March 2011. My bad. There was a 9.0 undersea earthquake that led to a seaside nuclear reactor disaster. It was rated 7 out of 7 on the International Nuclear Event Scale. The worst since the Chernobyl disaster in 1986, which also ranked a 7.
Wow. You know, with the earthquake in Japan in, I want to say 2010. Yeah. March 2011. My bad. There was a 9.0 undersea earthquake that led to a seaside nuclear reactor disaster. It was rated 7 out of 7 on the International Nuclear Event Scale. The worst since the Chernobyl disaster in 1986, which also ranked a 7.
Living on the West Coast, of course, there was more concern about radiation coming up in the Pacific. Are thyroid doctors, are oncologists in general keeping an eye on that?
Living on the West Coast, of course, there was more concern about radiation coming up in the Pacific. Are thyroid doctors, are oncologists in general keeping an eye on that?
Living on the West Coast, of course, there was more concern about radiation coming up in the Pacific. Are thyroid doctors, are oncologists in general keeping an eye on that?
Really?
Really?
Really?
Is that why iodine pills are used in bunkers and stuff? Yeah. That's fascinating. Can iodine pills also be used to disinfect water? Yeah, you can. Okay, okay. That's so interesting. Why does iodine protect against thyroid cancer?
Is that why iodine pills are used in bunkers and stuff? Yeah. That's fascinating. Can iodine pills also be used to disinfect water? Yeah, you can. Okay, okay. That's so interesting. Why does iodine protect against thyroid cancer?
Is that why iodine pills are used in bunkers and stuff? Yeah. That's fascinating. Can iodine pills also be used to disinfect water? Yeah, you can. Okay, okay. That's so interesting. Why does iodine protect against thyroid cancer?
Is that actually effective?
Is that actually effective?
Is that actually effective?
For no reason at all, I decided to bone up on what to do if World War III breaks out. And I found myself on the CDC site radiation emergencies, which let me know that a person must take potassium iodide before or shortly after being exposed to radioactive iodine. But before you risk feeling safe, the article mentions that this potassium iodide protects only against radioactive iodine.
For no reason at all, I decided to bone up on what to do if World War III breaks out. And I found myself on the CDC site radiation emergencies, which let me know that a person must take potassium iodide before or shortly after being exposed to radioactive iodine. But before you risk feeling safe, the article mentions that this potassium iodide protects only against radioactive iodine.
For no reason at all, I decided to bone up on what to do if World War III breaks out. And I found myself on the CDC site radiation emergencies, which let me know that a person must take potassium iodide before or shortly after being exposed to radioactive iodine. But before you risk feeling safe, the article mentions that this potassium iodide protects only against radioactive iodine.
It doesn't protect against any other type of radioactive material. And then it breaks it to us gently that, quote, potassium iodide will not help in a nuclear bomb emergency. But I mean, hey, it's worth having these emergency tablets in your bug out bag, which we should all have. I mean, salt would be tastier, but you'd probably need a lot of salt. You'd probably need a lot of salt.
It doesn't protect against any other type of radioactive material. And then it breaks it to us gently that, quote, potassium iodide will not help in a nuclear bomb emergency. But I mean, hey, it's worth having these emergency tablets in your bug out bag, which we should all have. I mean, salt would be tastier, but you'd probably need a lot of salt. You'd probably need a lot of salt.
It doesn't protect against any other type of radioactive material. And then it breaks it to us gently that, quote, potassium iodide will not help in a nuclear bomb emergency. But I mean, hey, it's worth having these emergency tablets in your bug out bag, which we should all have. I mean, salt would be tastier, but you'd probably need a lot of salt. You'd probably need a lot of salt.
Can I ask you listener questions?
Can I ask you listener questions?
Can I ask you listener questions?
But before we get to them, we'll donate to a cause chosen by Dr. Patel, who selected the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons. And the AAES promotes research and education in the field of endocrine surgery to advance the science and the art of endocrine surgery. So a donation was made to them in Dr. Patel's honor. to further research in this area, in your neck area.
But before we get to them, we'll donate to a cause chosen by Dr. Patel, who selected the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons. And the AAES promotes research and education in the field of endocrine surgery to advance the science and the art of endocrine surgery. So a donation was made to them in Dr. Patel's honor. to further research in this area, in your neck area.
But before we get to them, we'll donate to a cause chosen by Dr. Patel, who selected the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons. And the AAES promotes research and education in the field of endocrine surgery to advance the science and the art of endocrine surgery. So a donation was made to them in Dr. Patel's honor. to further research in this area, in your neck area.
So thank you to sponsors of the show for enabling us to toss some money to charities. Okay, your questions. If you're a patron at patreon.com slash ologies for just $1 a month, you can submit these before we record. And we even have a tier to submit audio questions so you could hear your voice on the show, which is pretty sick in a good way. This is not your species.
So thank you to sponsors of the show for enabling us to toss some money to charities. Okay, your questions. If you're a patron at patreon.com slash ologies for just $1 a month, you can submit these before we record. And we even have a tier to submit audio questions so you could hear your voice on the show, which is pretty sick in a good way. This is not your species.
So thank you to sponsors of the show for enabling us to toss some money to charities. Okay, your questions. If you're a patron at patreon.com slash ologies for just $1 a month, you can submit these before we record. And we even have a tier to submit audio questions so you could hear your voice on the show, which is pretty sick in a good way. This is not your species.
However, several people, Timmy H., Deborah Gray, Scalebar, Daniel Sucher, Devin, Jessica Chance, I mean, a lot of people, Earl of Grammelkin, Vanessa Adams, Brycons, wanted to know, in Devin's words, my vet once told me that cats in the seacoast, this person is from Maine, are more likely to develop hyperthyroidism, overactive thyroid, that is. Were you aware of this?
However, several people, Timmy H., Deborah Gray, Scalebar, Daniel Sucher, Devin, Jessica Chance, I mean, a lot of people, Earl of Grammelkin, Vanessa Adams, Brycons, wanted to know, in Devin's words, my vet once told me that cats in the seacoast, this person is from Maine, are more likely to develop hyperthyroidism, overactive thyroid, that is. Were you aware of this?
However, several people, Timmy H., Deborah Gray, Scalebar, Daniel Sucher, Devin, Jessica Chance, I mean, a lot of people, Earl of Grammelkin, Vanessa Adams, Brycons, wanted to know, in Devin's words, my vet once told me that cats in the seacoast, this person is from Maine, are more likely to develop hyperthyroidism, overactive thyroid, that is. Were you aware of this?
Do interspecies thyroidologists ever chat? And if cats on the seacoast are more likely to get it, is that an iodine thing you think?
Do interspecies thyroidologists ever chat? And if cats on the seacoast are more likely to get it, is that an iodine thing you think?
Do interspecies thyroidologists ever chat? And if cats on the seacoast are more likely to get it, is that an iodine thing you think?
Mm-hmm. Earl of Gramelkin said I had a cat with hypothyroidism who got the I-131 treatment, and we had to keep her poop sequestered for a month.
Mm-hmm. Earl of Gramelkin said I had a cat with hypothyroidism who got the I-131 treatment, and we had to keep her poop sequestered for a month.
Mm-hmm. Earl of Gramelkin said I had a cat with hypothyroidism who got the I-131 treatment, and we had to keep her poop sequestered for a month.
Well, okay, this was my next question.
Well, okay, this was my next question.
Well, okay, this was my next question.
I mean...
I mean...
I mean...
Just get that box. Go right to Petco. So I checked out the Cornell School of Veterinary Medicine's article, Feline Hyperthyroidism. And 98% of the time, it's benign. It's just from an enlargement in a kitty's thyroid as it ages. And treatment can involve restricting iodine in the diet, which also includes any outdoor hunting, which is good because that's bad for birds. and lizards and such anyway.
Just get that box. Go right to Petco. So I checked out the Cornell School of Veterinary Medicine's article, Feline Hyperthyroidism. And 98% of the time, it's benign. It's just from an enlargement in a kitty's thyroid as it ages. And treatment can involve restricting iodine in the diet, which also includes any outdoor hunting, which is good because that's bad for birds. and lizards and such anyway.
Just get that box. Go right to Petco. So I checked out the Cornell School of Veterinary Medicine's article, Feline Hyperthyroidism. And 98% of the time, it's benign. It's just from an enlargement in a kitty's thyroid as it ages. And treatment can involve restricting iodine in the diet, which also includes any outdoor hunting, which is good because that's bad for birds. and lizards and such anyway.
And other treatments might include surgical removal of the thyroid and yes, radioactive treatment, which cures 95% of feline hyperthyroidism with one shot. But yeah, avoid that poop for as long as the vet tells you. Now, what about geography and your pet's thyroids? So the Banfield Science and Quality News published an article titled, Feline Hyperthyroidism Common in Northwest
And other treatments might include surgical removal of the thyroid and yes, radioactive treatment, which cures 95% of feline hyperthyroidism with one shot. But yeah, avoid that poop for as long as the vet tells you. Now, what about geography and your pet's thyroids? So the Banfield Science and Quality News published an article titled, Feline Hyperthyroidism Common in Northwest
And other treatments might include surgical removal of the thyroid and yes, radioactive treatment, which cures 95% of feline hyperthyroidism with one shot. But yeah, avoid that poop for as long as the vet tells you. Now, what about geography and your pet's thyroids? So the Banfield Science and Quality News published an article titled, Feline Hyperthyroidism Common in Northwest
and East Coast, and it detailed that, yeah, the Pacific Northwest and the eastern seaboard of the U.S. have more kitty hyperthyroidism, but they don't know why. Could be that the cats there live longer than in southern states, maybe because of the weather they might be kept indoors more. It could be dietary sources of too much iodine.
and East Coast, and it detailed that, yeah, the Pacific Northwest and the eastern seaboard of the U.S. have more kitty hyperthyroidism, but they don't know why. Could be that the cats there live longer than in southern states, maybe because of the weather they might be kept indoors more. It could be dietary sources of too much iodine.
and East Coast, and it detailed that, yeah, the Pacific Northwest and the eastern seaboard of the U.S. have more kitty hyperthyroidism, but they don't know why. Could be that the cats there live longer than in southern states, maybe because of the weather they might be kept indoors more. It could be dietary sources of too much iodine.
Could be endocrine disruptors in canned foods or scented kitty litter or flame retardants. And only 177 out of 10,000 cats will have the problem though. And it's a relatively easy fix. So don't start sobbing, but you can hug your cat right now if it lets you. So hyperthyroidism, let's leave your kitty alone. Let's talk about the rest of your bod.
Could be endocrine disruptors in canned foods or scented kitty litter or flame retardants. And only 177 out of 10,000 cats will have the problem though. And it's a relatively easy fix. So don't start sobbing, but you can hug your cat right now if it lets you. So hyperthyroidism, let's leave your kitty alone. Let's talk about the rest of your bod.
Could be endocrine disruptors in canned foods or scented kitty litter or flame retardants. And only 177 out of 10,000 cats will have the problem though. And it's a relatively easy fix. So don't start sobbing, but you can hug your cat right now if it lets you. So hyperthyroidism, let's leave your kitty alone. Let's talk about the rest of your bod.
Ari Losensky, Sarah Manns, Dave Cannon, Hannah Bale, Stephanie Lingard, Rachel May, Sam Aker, all asked in Rebecca Fitchett's words, please talk about Graves' disease with an exclamation point. Let's talk graves.
Ari Losensky, Sarah Manns, Dave Cannon, Hannah Bale, Stephanie Lingard, Rachel May, Sam Aker, all asked in Rebecca Fitchett's words, please talk about Graves' disease with an exclamation point. Let's talk graves.
Ari Losensky, Sarah Manns, Dave Cannon, Hannah Bale, Stephanie Lingard, Rachel May, Sam Aker, all asked in Rebecca Fitchett's words, please talk about Graves' disease with an exclamation point. Let's talk graves.
What's going on with it? What do you do? Where does radioactivity come into it?
What's going on with it? What do you do? Where does radioactivity come into it?
What's going on with it? What do you do? Where does radioactivity come into it?
What about your metabolism? How much of an effect does it have in terms of like how many calories your body burns at a basic metabolic rate? How much of your body composition is determined by it?
What about your metabolism? How much of an effect does it have in terms of like how many calories your body burns at a basic metabolic rate? How much of your body composition is determined by it?
What about your metabolism? How much of an effect does it have in terms of like how many calories your body burns at a basic metabolic rate? How much of your body composition is determined by it?
Remember, that TSH is the inverse of how much thyroid function you actually have. If you're one step ahead, a low, low TSH means what?
Remember, that TSH is the inverse of how much thyroid function you actually have. If you're one step ahead, a low, low TSH means what?
Remember, that TSH is the inverse of how much thyroid function you actually have. If you're one step ahead, a low, low TSH means what?
So people, if you got a uterus and you are planning to use it to cook a baby, you got to figure out something that's not those medications that will block the thyroid from making too much T4. So what do you do? You're asking me, a podcast host? I don't know.
So people, if you got a uterus and you are planning to use it to cook a baby, you got to figure out something that's not those medications that will block the thyroid from making too much T4. So what do you do? You're asking me, a podcast host? I don't know.
So people, if you got a uterus and you are planning to use it to cook a baby, you got to figure out something that's not those medications that will block the thyroid from making too much T4. So what do you do? You're asking me, a podcast host? I don't know.
Dr. Patel gives some advice if your doctor opts for surgery.
Dr. Patel gives some advice if your doctor opts for surgery.
Dr. Patel gives some advice if your doctor opts for surgery.
Yeah. I myself, if I had the chance to go night-night and wake up with no thyroid versus... sequestering myself with radioactivity, I would probably go night-night and get a popsicle later. Why would someone choose the radioactivity?
Yeah. I myself, if I had the chance to go night-night and wake up with no thyroid versus... sequestering myself with radioactivity, I would probably go night-night and get a popsicle later. Why would someone choose the radioactivity?
Yeah. I myself, if I had the chance to go night-night and wake up with no thyroid versus... sequestering myself with radioactivity, I would probably go night-night and get a popsicle later. Why would someone choose the radioactivity?
Okay. What if you take the radioactive iodine? Do you have to stay in any kind of lead bunker?
Okay. What if you take the radioactive iodine? Do you have to stay in any kind of lead bunker?
Okay. What if you take the radioactive iodine? Do you have to stay in any kind of lead bunker?
So to treat Graves' disease, it's not much radioactive iodine. But with thyroid cancer, you're bringing out the big guns.
So to treat Graves' disease, it's not much radioactive iodine. But with thyroid cancer, you're bringing out the big guns.
So to treat Graves' disease, it's not much radioactive iodine. But with thyroid cancer, you're bringing out the big guns.
What about bedding and stuff like that?
What about bedding and stuff like that?
What about bedding and stuff like that?
Okay. Oh, good to know. The idea that you're potentially turning into Spider-Man is exciting now. You know what kind of superpowers you can get.
Okay. Oh, good to know. The idea that you're potentially turning into Spider-Man is exciting now. You know what kind of superpowers you can get.
Okay. Oh, good to know. The idea that you're potentially turning into Spider-Man is exciting now. You know what kind of superpowers you can get.
If you are inspired to be the radioactive center of the Marvel Universe, what do your labs have to look like?
If you are inspired to be the radioactive center of the Marvel Universe, what do your labs have to look like?
If you are inspired to be the radioactive center of the Marvel Universe, what do your labs have to look like?
So many of you, Daniel Johnston, Karen Calabrantly, Matea Orr, Little C. Sidey, Sarah Jo, Cassie Lebon, Caitlin Fitzgerald, Annie Dulles, Elliot, Brooklyn Barron, and Vanessa Adams all asked, what's up with labs that are in the normal range, but you still feel awful, whether it's hypo or hyper? So did. Elliot Feeling, first time question asker, hyperthyroidism and Graves disease have her here.
So many of you, Daniel Johnston, Karen Calabrantly, Matea Orr, Little C. Sidey, Sarah Jo, Cassie Lebon, Caitlin Fitzgerald, Annie Dulles, Elliot, Brooklyn Barron, and Vanessa Adams all asked, what's up with labs that are in the normal range, but you still feel awful, whether it's hypo or hyper? So did. Elliot Feeling, first time question asker, hyperthyroidism and Graves disease have her here.
So many of you, Daniel Johnston, Karen Calabrantly, Matea Orr, Little C. Sidey, Sarah Jo, Cassie Lebon, Caitlin Fitzgerald, Annie Dulles, Elliot, Brooklyn Barron, and Vanessa Adams all asked, what's up with labs that are in the normal range, but you still feel awful, whether it's hypo or hyper? So did. Elliot Feeling, first time question asker, hyperthyroidism and Graves disease have her here.
Wondering what exactly are those normal ranges and what's the difference between T4, T3, or rather in the free versions of them?
Wondering what exactly are those normal ranges and what's the difference between T4, T3, or rather in the free versions of them?
Wondering what exactly are those normal ranges and what's the difference between T4, T3, or rather in the free versions of them?
Why is, Patrick Duffy wanted to know, why is the normal range... So large.
Why is, Patrick Duffy wanted to know, why is the normal range... So large.
Why is, Patrick Duffy wanted to know, why is the normal range... So large.
How often are people depressed, but they think it's their thyroid or vice versa?
How often are people depressed, but they think it's their thyroid or vice versa?
How often are people depressed, but they think it's their thyroid or vice versa?
He's an actor from the 1980s soap opera Dallas, which was its Yellowstone of the era. But anyway. Why is that normal range so large?
He's an actor from the 1980s soap opera Dallas, which was its Yellowstone of the era. But anyway. Why is that normal range so large?
He's an actor from the 1980s soap opera Dallas, which was its Yellowstone of the era. But anyway. Why is that normal range so large?
Do people then say, okay, my TSH is normal. Let's check the T3 and T4.
Do people then say, okay, my TSH is normal. Let's check the T3 and T4.
Do people then say, okay, my TSH is normal. Let's check the T3 and T4.
And don't blame the thyroid.
And don't blame the thyroid.
And don't blame the thyroid.
You should. It's like, get off my back, get off my thyroid. I would love to know, what about the metabolism? Is it the temperature gauge that is speeding it up? Or is your body converting more energy to heat? Is that what's really contributing to the fluctuations?
You should. It's like, get off my back, get off my thyroid. I would love to know, what about the metabolism? Is it the temperature gauge that is speeding it up? Or is your body converting more energy to heat? Is that what's really contributing to the fluctuations?
You should. It's like, get off my back, get off my thyroid. I would love to know, what about the metabolism? Is it the temperature gauge that is speeding it up? Or is your body converting more energy to heat? Is that what's really contributing to the fluctuations?
Okay, so we have a whole episode on metabolism, the evolutionary anthropology episode with Dr. Herman Ponser. But some of y'all wanted to know if what you're eating, like cutting out inflammatory foods, can help your thyroid get its shit together. And I'm looking at you, first-time question askers, Michaela Ballard and Marianne Mazinski.
Okay, so we have a whole episode on metabolism, the evolutionary anthropology episode with Dr. Herman Ponser. But some of y'all wanted to know if what you're eating, like cutting out inflammatory foods, can help your thyroid get its shit together. And I'm looking at you, first-time question askers, Michaela Ballard and Marianne Mazinski.
Okay, so we have a whole episode on metabolism, the evolutionary anthropology episode with Dr. Herman Ponser. But some of y'all wanted to know if what you're eating, like cutting out inflammatory foods, can help your thyroid get its shit together. And I'm looking at you, first-time question askers, Michaela Ballard and Marianne Mazinski.
Kelly Paul, Felicia Chandler, a bunch of people wanted to know, can diet help manage Thyroid issues? Amy wants to know, Amy Johnson, any support for the autoimmune protocol diet helping reduce inflammation levels with hypothyroidism? Any suggestions on foods you should avoid or you should eat?
Kelly Paul, Felicia Chandler, a bunch of people wanted to know, can diet help manage Thyroid issues? Amy wants to know, Amy Johnson, any support for the autoimmune protocol diet helping reduce inflammation levels with hypothyroidism? Any suggestions on foods you should avoid or you should eat?
Kelly Paul, Felicia Chandler, a bunch of people wanted to know, can diet help manage Thyroid issues? Amy wants to know, Amy Johnson, any support for the autoimmune protocol diet helping reduce inflammation levels with hypothyroidism? Any suggestions on foods you should avoid or you should eat?
Would like alcohol and sugar also be included in that?
Would like alcohol and sugar also be included in that?
Would like alcohol and sugar also be included in that?
That was my next question. Also on the minds of Maya Lecker, who's a Graves disease haver, Danielle Bauris, Angie Doulas, and Annie Sayers, who asked, can stress make an underactive thyroid worse? Jen O wanted to know, so many symptoms associated with hypo or hyperthyroidism seem like they could also be caused by stress.
That was my next question. Also on the minds of Maya Lecker, who's a Graves disease haver, Danielle Bauris, Angie Doulas, and Annie Sayers, who asked, can stress make an underactive thyroid worse? Jen O wanted to know, so many symptoms associated with hypo or hyperthyroidism seem like they could also be caused by stress.
That was my next question. Also on the minds of Maya Lecker, who's a Graves disease haver, Danielle Bauris, Angie Doulas, and Annie Sayers, who asked, can stress make an underactive thyroid worse? Jen O wanted to know, so many symptoms associated with hypo or hyperthyroidism seem like they could also be caused by stress.
or other common mental or physical issues, when should a person start to suspect thyroid issues specifically and prompt a discussion with their physician, especially without being looked at as a hypochondriac who spends too much time online listening to podcasts, they ask. Amazing question.
or other common mental or physical issues, when should a person start to suspect thyroid issues specifically and prompt a discussion with their physician, especially without being looked at as a hypochondriac who spends too much time online listening to podcasts, they ask. Amazing question.
or other common mental or physical issues, when should a person start to suspect thyroid issues specifically and prompt a discussion with their physician, especially without being looked at as a hypochondriac who spends too much time online listening to podcasts, they ask. Amazing question.
Hypo means under, whereas hyper means above.
Hypo means under, whereas hyper means above.
Hypo means under, whereas hyper means above.
But yeah, how much is stress and common like mental or physical issues, how much does that have like an effect down the line?
But yeah, how much is stress and common like mental or physical issues, how much does that have like an effect down the line?
But yeah, how much is stress and common like mental or physical issues, how much does that have like an effect down the line?
Kelly Shaver had a funny question. They said, I'm fat, and every doctor I have keeps insisting on doing thyroid blood tests, even though they're always fine. Why are they so obsessed with my thyroid?
Kelly Shaver had a funny question. They said, I'm fat, and every doctor I have keeps insisting on doing thyroid blood tests, even though they're always fine. Why are they so obsessed with my thyroid?
Kelly Shaver had a funny question. They said, I'm fat, and every doctor I have keeps insisting on doing thyroid blood tests, even though they're always fine. Why are they so obsessed with my thyroid?
So this guest is a division chief of the NYU Langone Endocrine Surgery Department and a professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. And we met up on a brisk afternoon in this tidy, elegant hospital conference room. And I asked so many questions and he didn't even bill us for them. He knows his stuff and he knows your stuff.
So this guest is a division chief of the NYU Langone Endocrine Surgery Department and a professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. And we met up on a brisk afternoon in this tidy, elegant hospital conference room. And I asked so many questions and he didn't even bill us for them. He knows his stuff and he knows your stuff.
So this guest is a division chief of the NYU Langone Endocrine Surgery Department and a professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. And we met up on a brisk afternoon in this tidy, elegant hospital conference room. And I asked so many questions and he didn't even bill us for them. He knows his stuff and he knows your stuff.
Right. So it's keep looking if you suspect that there's something else going on. There are other tests to move on to, right? Absolutely. Okay. I thought this was a great question, Tiger Yudi and Greg Wallach. Greg asked, can you have Queen Anne eyebrows and your thyroid be fine? And Tiger Yudi wants to know, do thin eyebrows really lean toward poor thyroid function?
Right. So it's keep looking if you suspect that there's something else going on. There are other tests to move on to, right? Absolutely. Okay. I thought this was a great question, Tiger Yudi and Greg Wallach. Greg asked, can you have Queen Anne eyebrows and your thyroid be fine? And Tiger Yudi wants to know, do thin eyebrows really lean toward poor thyroid function?
Right. So it's keep looking if you suspect that there's something else going on. There are other tests to move on to, right? Absolutely. Okay. I thought this was a great question, Tiger Yudi and Greg Wallach. Greg asked, can you have Queen Anne eyebrows and your thyroid be fine? And Tiger Yudi wants to know, do thin eyebrows really lean toward poor thyroid function?
The last half of the eyebrow sort of pieces out early from what I understand. And I have a friend whose mom was like, never pluck your eyebrows. Never. Mine never grew back in the last portion. And then it turned out she just had thyroid disease.
The last half of the eyebrow sort of pieces out early from what I understand. And I have a friend whose mom was like, never pluck your eyebrows. Never. Mine never grew back in the last portion. And then it turned out she just had thyroid disease.
The last half of the eyebrow sort of pieces out early from what I understand. And I have a friend whose mom was like, never pluck your eyebrows. Never. Mine never grew back in the last portion. And then it turned out she just had thyroid disease.
I'm checking my tails.
I'm checking my tails.
I'm checking my tails.
I understand that there is a lot of blame for 90s eyebrows when really get your thyroid checked. Yeah, exactly. I'll have to do a little bit of an aside on that.
I understand that there is a lot of blame for 90s eyebrows when really get your thyroid checked. Yeah, exactly. I'll have to do a little bit of an aside on that.
I understand that there is a lot of blame for 90s eyebrows when really get your thyroid checked. Yeah, exactly. I'll have to do a little bit of an aside on that.
Okay, this symptom is called eyebrow hypotrichosis, and a 2023 paper titled Eyebrow Loss and the Queen Anne Sign in Hypothyroidism said that loss of the outer third of the eyebrows is called the Queen Anne sign, and it's an uncommon manifestation of hypothyroidism. However... The exact mechanism of eyebrow loss only at the outer third portion, it's unknown. They don't know why it happens.
Okay, this symptom is called eyebrow hypotrichosis, and a 2023 paper titled Eyebrow Loss and the Queen Anne Sign in Hypothyroidism said that loss of the outer third of the eyebrows is called the Queen Anne sign, and it's an uncommon manifestation of hypothyroidism. However... The exact mechanism of eyebrow loss only at the outer third portion, it's unknown. They don't know why it happens.
Okay, this symptom is called eyebrow hypotrichosis, and a 2023 paper titled Eyebrow Loss and the Queen Anne Sign in Hypothyroidism said that loss of the outer third of the eyebrows is called the Queen Anne sign, and it's an uncommon manifestation of hypothyroidism. However... The exact mechanism of eyebrow loss only at the outer third portion, it's unknown. They don't know why it happens.
And clinicians should consider hypothyroidism as a diagnosis for patients presenting with that loss of the outer third of the eyebrows, despite the fact that it doesn't happen very frequently. And I was like, who's Queen Anne? So this is named after Anne of Denmark, who was a 16th century hottie, who was a patron of the arts.
And clinicians should consider hypothyroidism as a diagnosis for patients presenting with that loss of the outer third of the eyebrows, despite the fact that it doesn't happen very frequently. And I was like, who's Queen Anne? So this is named after Anne of Denmark, who was a 16th century hottie, who was a patron of the arts.
And clinicians should consider hypothyroidism as a diagnosis for patients presenting with that loss of the outer third of the eyebrows, despite the fact that it doesn't happen very frequently. And I was like, who's Queen Anne? So this is named after Anne of Denmark, who was a 16th century hottie, who was a patron of the arts.
and noted to be a woman of boundless intrigue, although others called her frivolous and self-indulgent. And those people are haters. But according to her official portraits, her eyebrow tails were like, see ya. And the reason for that is lost in the sands of time. Maybe she was hypothyroid, maybe not.
and noted to be a woman of boundless intrigue, although others called her frivolous and self-indulgent. And those people are haters. But according to her official portraits, her eyebrow tails were like, see ya. And the reason for that is lost in the sands of time. Maybe she was hypothyroid, maybe not.
and noted to be a woman of boundless intrigue, although others called her frivolous and self-indulgent. And those people are haters. But according to her official portraits, her eyebrow tails were like, see ya. And the reason for that is lost in the sands of time. Maybe she was hypothyroid, maybe not.
So it's possible if you didn't over pluck the outer tails of your eyebrows, but they are MIA and you're also feeling cold, constipated and dry all over, you might wanna get that thyroid checked. Now, if you over plucked and you know it, let me direct you to the 2023 Live Science article. Why don't over plucked eyebrows fully grow back?
So it's possible if you didn't over pluck the outer tails of your eyebrows, but they are MIA and you're also feeling cold, constipated and dry all over, you might wanna get that thyroid checked. Now, if you over plucked and you know it, let me direct you to the 2023 Live Science article. Why don't over plucked eyebrows fully grow back?
So it's possible if you didn't over pluck the outer tails of your eyebrows, but they are MIA and you're also feeling cold, constipated and dry all over, you might wanna get that thyroid checked. Now, if you over plucked and you know it, let me direct you to the 2023 Live Science article. Why don't over plucked eyebrows fully grow back?
Which essentially says that you abused the follicles so much they don't wanna come back to your eyebrow party. Like, you know how sometimes old guys who wear tube socks for decades have bald shins? It's like that. But now you have like permanent Kate Moss eyebrows. Now, there are worse things. But yeah, we have a whole episode on the drama of hair called Trichology. Now, brows be damned.
Which essentially says that you abused the follicles so much they don't wanna come back to your eyebrow party. Like, you know how sometimes old guys who wear tube socks for decades have bald shins? It's like that. But now you have like permanent Kate Moss eyebrows. Now, there are worse things. But yeah, we have a whole episode on the drama of hair called Trichology. Now, brows be damned.
Which essentially says that you abused the follicles so much they don't wanna come back to your eyebrow party. Like, you know how sometimes old guys who wear tube socks for decades have bald shins? It's like that. But now you have like permanent Kate Moss eyebrows. Now, there are worse things. But yeah, we have a whole episode on the drama of hair called Trichology. Now, brows be damned.
And the difference between having, let's say, low thyroid hormone and having Hashimoto's. Hashimoto's, from what I understand, is your immune system being like, let's get this thyroid out of here. Get out of here. We don't like you. You're an invader. And you're like, this is my own thyroid.
And the difference between having, let's say, low thyroid hormone and having Hashimoto's. Hashimoto's, from what I understand, is your immune system being like, let's get this thyroid out of here. Get out of here. We don't like you. You're an invader. And you're like, this is my own thyroid.
And the difference between having, let's say, low thyroid hormone and having Hashimoto's. Hashimoto's, from what I understand, is your immune system being like, let's get this thyroid out of here. Get out of here. We don't like you. You're an invader. And you're like, this is my own thyroid.
Let's talk about other hormones in the tomato soup of your body. Carol Young asked, is there a difference in thyroid functions between males assigned at birth and females assigned at birth? Midnight Cat and Brie Kahn's also asked about female hormone systems and thyroids.
Let's talk about other hormones in the tomato soup of your body. Carol Young asked, is there a difference in thyroid functions between males assigned at birth and females assigned at birth? Midnight Cat and Brie Kahn's also asked about female hormone systems and thyroids.
Let's talk about other hormones in the tomato soup of your body. Carol Young asked, is there a difference in thyroid functions between males assigned at birth and females assigned at birth? Midnight Cat and Brie Kahn's also asked about female hormone systems and thyroids.
And what about Jay Ramsbald wanted to know, are there any thyroid implications for people assigned female at birth who are taking testosterone for gender affirming care? Does hormone replacement therapy have any role in thyroid issues?
And what about Jay Ramsbald wanted to know, are there any thyroid implications for people assigned female at birth who are taking testosterone for gender affirming care? Does hormone replacement therapy have any role in thyroid issues?
And what about Jay Ramsbald wanted to know, are there any thyroid implications for people assigned female at birth who are taking testosterone for gender affirming care? Does hormone replacement therapy have any role in thyroid issues?
And even before pregnancy, hypothyroidism or low levels of T3 can disrupt ovulation and egg release and hinder the ability to conceive. Or if underlying causes like a pituitary issue or autoimmune disease is causing the hypothyroidism, it might also be thrown a wrench in getting a baby in there.
And even before pregnancy, hypothyroidism or low levels of T3 can disrupt ovulation and egg release and hinder the ability to conceive. Or if underlying causes like a pituitary issue or autoimmune disease is causing the hypothyroidism, it might also be thrown a wrench in getting a baby in there.
And even before pregnancy, hypothyroidism or low levels of T3 can disrupt ovulation and egg release and hinder the ability to conceive. Or if underlying causes like a pituitary issue or autoimmune disease is causing the hypothyroidism, it might also be thrown a wrench in getting a baby in there.
Respectfully speaking to those who asked, Renee Wenger, Maddie Dennison, Sarah, Cassie Kenton, Danielle Sucher, and Amber McIntyre. why during pregnancy, your thyroid can also cause a bit of a hollow balloon.
Respectfully speaking to those who asked, Renee Wenger, Maddie Dennison, Sarah, Cassie Kenton, Danielle Sucher, and Amber McIntyre. why during pregnancy, your thyroid can also cause a bit of a hollow balloon.
Respectfully speaking to those who asked, Renee Wenger, Maddie Dennison, Sarah, Cassie Kenton, Danielle Sucher, and Amber McIntyre. why during pregnancy, your thyroid can also cause a bit of a hollow balloon.
As someone who is on all kinds of hormones, who hasn't checked her thyroid in a while, can it go with the wind? Like, are you typically on a trajectory where if you have a thyroid issue, it's never going to resolve on its own?
As someone who is on all kinds of hormones, who hasn't checked her thyroid in a while, can it go with the wind? Like, are you typically on a trajectory where if you have a thyroid issue, it's never going to resolve on its own?
As someone who is on all kinds of hormones, who hasn't checked her thyroid in a while, can it go with the wind? Like, are you typically on a trajectory where if you have a thyroid issue, it's never going to resolve on its own?
So if your body calms down somehow and stops over-provoking your poor, exhausted, overworked thyroid, things can chill and return to normal pretty suddenly, which is a big yay. And for those on the other end of the seesaw whose TSH is too high and the thyroid function is hypo or low... In general, though, if you have somebody who's headed towards...
So if your body calms down somehow and stops over-provoking your poor, exhausted, overworked thyroid, things can chill and return to normal pretty suddenly, which is a big yay. And for those on the other end of the seesaw whose TSH is too high and the thyroid function is hypo or low... In general, though, if you have somebody who's headed towards...
So if your body calms down somehow and stops over-provoking your poor, exhausted, overworked thyroid, things can chill and return to normal pretty suddenly, which is a big yay. And for those on the other end of the seesaw whose TSH is too high and the thyroid function is hypo or low... In general, though, if you have somebody who's headed towards...
Hashimoto's is a type of autoimmune disorder where your body's immune system turns on itself and you're like, can you not? But Hashimoto's is not the cause of all underactive thyroids, aka hypothyroidism. You can have low thyroid hormone without it being caused by autoimmune Hashimoto's. Just like all cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti.
Hashimoto's is a type of autoimmune disorder where your body's immune system turns on itself and you're like, can you not? But Hashimoto's is not the cause of all underactive thyroids, aka hypothyroidism. You can have low thyroid hormone without it being caused by autoimmune Hashimoto's. Just like all cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti.
Hashimoto's is a type of autoimmune disorder where your body's immune system turns on itself and you're like, can you not? But Hashimoto's is not the cause of all underactive thyroids, aka hypothyroidism. You can have low thyroid hormone without it being caused by autoimmune Hashimoto's. Just like all cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti.
What about ways to prevent thyroid nodules? And I'm asking literally for a friend who has them. Erin, I got your back. She's like, I got another one I got to go check out. Anything that she can do in her power...
What about ways to prevent thyroid nodules? And I'm asking literally for a friend who has them. Erin, I got your back. She's like, I got another one I got to go check out. Anything that she can do in her power...
What about ways to prevent thyroid nodules? And I'm asking literally for a friend who has them. Erin, I got your back. She's like, I got another one I got to go check out. Anything that she can do in her power...
When you palpate a thyroid, can you really feel if there's a nodule in there?
When you palpate a thyroid, can you really feel if there's a nodule in there?
When you palpate a thyroid, can you really feel if there's a nodule in there?
So BFF and recent birthday girl, Erin, and patrons Emma Wren, Lydia Trom, and Addie Capello, who says, mine is just chilling, but I know they can become a problem for others. Keep an eye on them. Do people ever come in with just lymph nodes that are...
So BFF and recent birthday girl, Erin, and patrons Emma Wren, Lydia Trom, and Addie Capello, who says, mine is just chilling, but I know they can become a problem for others. Keep an eye on them. Do people ever come in with just lymph nodes that are...
So BFF and recent birthday girl, Erin, and patrons Emma Wren, Lydia Trom, and Addie Capello, who says, mine is just chilling, but I know they can become a problem for others. Keep an eye on them. Do people ever come in with just lymph nodes that are...
And they're like, I have cancer. And you're like, that's a lymph node. You're good.
And they're like, I have cancer. And you're like, that's a lymph node. You're good.
And they're like, I have cancer. And you're like, that's a lymph node. You're good.
You mentioned earlier thyroid cancer that could have spread. Are those like endometriosis? Is it like bits of thyroid tissue that are around that respond to radioactive iodine or-
You mentioned earlier thyroid cancer that could have spread. Are those like endometriosis? Is it like bits of thyroid tissue that are around that respond to radioactive iodine or-
You mentioned earlier thyroid cancer that could have spread. Are those like endometriosis? Is it like bits of thyroid tissue that are around that respond to radioactive iodine or-
As opposed to like radiation gamma knife or something that can just zap one area, this can actually systemically go and find it.
As opposed to like radiation gamma knife or something that can just zap one area, this can actually systemically go and find it.
As opposed to like radiation gamma knife or something that can just zap one area, this can actually systemically go and find it.
Nice. It's like they're kryptonite.
Nice. It's like they're kryptonite.
Nice. It's like they're kryptonite.
What about libido and thyroids?
What about libido and thyroids?
What about libido and thyroids?
Do people with Graves' disease get hornier?
Do people with Graves' disease get hornier?
Do people with Graves' disease get hornier?
I didn't mean to. I was curious.
I didn't mean to. I was curious.
I didn't mean to. I was curious.
Right, exactly. Yeah. What kind of heart rate do you have if you've got Graves' disease?
Right, exactly. Yeah. What kind of heart rate do you have if you've got Graves' disease?
Right, exactly. Yeah. What kind of heart rate do you have if you've got Graves' disease?
So all Hashimoto's, hypothyroidism, not all hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's. Do those present differently?
So all Hashimoto's, hypothyroidism, not all hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's. Do those present differently?
So all Hashimoto's, hypothyroidism, not all hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's. Do those present differently?
Right. Well, okay. One more question. Mercedes Tarasovic, Hannah at Serrano Hudson. What's the connection between hypothyroidism and chronic uticaria, which are hives, right? What's up with hives and thyroids?
Right. Well, okay. One more question. Mercedes Tarasovic, Hannah at Serrano Hudson. What's the connection between hypothyroidism and chronic uticaria, which are hives, right? What's up with hives and thyroids?
Right. Well, okay. One more question. Mercedes Tarasovic, Hannah at Serrano Hudson. What's the connection between hypothyroidism and chronic uticaria, which are hives, right? What's up with hives and thyroids?
Good to know. Hardest part about your job?
Good to know. Hardest part about your job?
Good to know. Hardest part about your job?
What sucks the most? It can be anything. It can be petty. It can be huge.
What sucks the most? It can be anything. It can be petty. It can be huge.
What sucks the most? It can be anything. It can be petty. It can be huge.
I know.
I know.
I know.
I'm going to ask that next.
I'm going to ask that next.
I'm going to ask that next.
You're like, I have nothing outside.
You're like, I have nothing outside.
You're like, I have nothing outside.
But just paperwork.
But just paperwork.
But just paperwork.
Rather be palpating thyroids than filing paperwork.
Rather be palpating thyroids than filing paperwork.
Rather be palpating thyroids than filing paperwork.
One insurance scholar, Jay Feynman, wrote in a recent op-ed piece that in the murkiness of health care insurance, when consumers need coverage, they discover that there are significant protection gaps. And for an expose on how, Feynman writes, the denial of valid insurance claims is not occasional or accidental or the fault of a few bad employees. It's the result of an increasing insecurity.
One insurance scholar, Jay Feynman, wrote in a recent op-ed piece that in the murkiness of health care insurance, when consumers need coverage, they discover that there are significant protection gaps. And for an expose on how, Feynman writes, the denial of valid insurance claims is not occasional or accidental or the fault of a few bad employees. It's the result of an increasing insecurity.
One insurance scholar, Jay Feynman, wrote in a recent op-ed piece that in the murkiness of health care insurance, when consumers need coverage, they discover that there are significant protection gaps. And for an expose on how, Feynman writes, the denial of valid insurance claims is not occasional or accidental or the fault of a few bad employees. It's the result of an increasing insecurity.
and systematic focus on maximizing profits by major companies. You can see his 2010 book, Delay, Deny, Defend. Why insurance companies don't pay claims and what you can do about it. Best thing about your job. What do you love? I know you love your job, which is why I'm talking to you and not some other thyroid jabroni.
and systematic focus on maximizing profits by major companies. You can see his 2010 book, Delay, Deny, Defend. Why insurance companies don't pay claims and what you can do about it. Best thing about your job. What do you love? I know you love your job, which is why I'm talking to you and not some other thyroid jabroni.
and systematic focus on maximizing profits by major companies. You can see his 2010 book, Delay, Deny, Defend. Why insurance companies don't pay claims and what you can do about it. Best thing about your job. What do you love? I know you love your job, which is why I'm talking to you and not some other thyroid jabroni.
Do you ever see someone come back after medication and they look and feel so much better?
Do you ever see someone come back after medication and they look and feel so much better?
Do you ever see someone come back after medication and they look and feel so much better?
What about any myths that you would want to bust about thyroids? Any soapboxes you want to get on?
What about any myths that you would want to bust about thyroids? Any soapboxes you want to get on?
What about any myths that you would want to bust about thyroids? Any soapboxes you want to get on?
When should someone get a second opinion?
When should someone get a second opinion?
When should someone get a second opinion?
Okay, so this is confusing, but how doctors measure your thyroid function is by checking your TSH. That's thyroid stimulating hormone. So this hormone is like a measure of how much your body is pressing the gas pedal to try to get enough thyroid action.
Okay, so this is confusing, but how doctors measure your thyroid function is by checking your TSH. That's thyroid stimulating hormone. So this hormone is like a measure of how much your body is pressing the gas pedal to try to get enough thyroid action.
Okay, so this is confusing, but how doctors measure your thyroid function is by checking your TSH. That's thyroid stimulating hormone. So this hormone is like a measure of how much your body is pressing the gas pedal to try to get enough thyroid action.
Yeah. So smart. Thank you so much for making me better friends with my own thyroid.
Yeah. So smart. Thank you so much for making me better friends with my own thyroid.
Yeah. So smart. Thank you so much for making me better friends with my own thyroid.
I appreciate everything it's doing for me at the moment.
I appreciate everything it's doing for me at the moment.
I appreciate everything it's doing for me at the moment.
I'm going to keep it. Thank you, doctor. on serious questions because sometimes those are the ones that most need the answers. And to find out more about Dr. Kapil Patel, see the links in the show notes as well as one to the charity of his choice, the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons or AAES. Thank you so much NYU for loaning him to us for that hour. What a time we had. I loved it.
I'm going to keep it. Thank you, doctor. on serious questions because sometimes those are the ones that most need the answers. And to find out more about Dr. Kapil Patel, see the links in the show notes as well as one to the charity of his choice, the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons or AAES. Thank you so much NYU for loaning him to us for that hour. What a time we had. I loved it.
I'm going to keep it. Thank you, doctor. on serious questions because sometimes those are the ones that most need the answers. And to find out more about Dr. Kapil Patel, see the links in the show notes as well as one to the charity of his choice, the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons or AAES. Thank you so much NYU for loaning him to us for that hour. What a time we had. I loved it.
Say hi to us on social media. I'm at Ologies on Blue Sky, still at Ologies on Instagram and at Allie Ward on there too. We have shorter kid-friendly episodes called Smologies in their own feed now. Just search S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S wherever you get podcasts. Look for the new green artwork and hit subscribe. You can join Patreon at patreon.com slash ologies.
Say hi to us on social media. I'm at Ologies on Blue Sky, still at Ologies on Instagram and at Allie Ward on there too. We have shorter kid-friendly episodes called Smologies in their own feed now. Just search S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S wherever you get podcasts. Look for the new green artwork and hit subscribe. You can join Patreon at patreon.com slash ologies.
Say hi to us on social media. I'm at Ologies on Blue Sky, still at Ologies on Instagram and at Allie Ward on there too. We have shorter kid-friendly episodes called Smologies in their own feed now. Just search S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S wherever you get podcasts. Look for the new green artwork and hit subscribe. You can join Patreon at patreon.com slash ologies.
You can find hats, totes, tees, and more at ologiesmerch.com too. Thank you so much to recent birthday girl and human gem, Erin Talbert, who admins the Ologies podcast Facebook group. I love you, Erin. I hate your thyroid. I'm sorry about it. Tell it to be nice. Aveline Malink makes our professional transcripts. Callie Ardoire does the website.
You can find hats, totes, tees, and more at ologiesmerch.com too. Thank you so much to recent birthday girl and human gem, Erin Talbert, who admins the Ologies podcast Facebook group. I love you, Erin. I hate your thyroid. I'm sorry about it. Tell it to be nice. Aveline Malink makes our professional transcripts. Callie Ardoire does the website.
You can find hats, totes, tees, and more at ologiesmerch.com too. Thank you so much to recent birthday girl and human gem, Erin Talbert, who admins the Ologies podcast Facebook group. I love you, Erin. I hate your thyroid. I'm sorry about it. Tell it to be nice. Aveline Malink makes our professional transcripts. Callie Ardoire does the website.
Noelle Dilworth steers our calendar as scheduling producer. Susan Hale is the pituitary gland of a managing director. Jake Chafee is our T4 of an assistant editor. And the T3 that gets the episode out of the garage is Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio. Nick Thorburn has the aux and made the theme music. If you stick around to the end of the episode, I tell you a secret.
Noelle Dilworth steers our calendar as scheduling producer. Susan Hale is the pituitary gland of a managing director. Jake Chafee is our T4 of an assistant editor. And the T3 that gets the episode out of the garage is Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio. Nick Thorburn has the aux and made the theme music. If you stick around to the end of the episode, I tell you a secret.
Noelle Dilworth steers our calendar as scheduling producer. Susan Hale is the pituitary gland of a managing director. Jake Chafee is our T4 of an assistant editor. And the T3 that gets the episode out of the garage is Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio. Nick Thorburn has the aux and made the theme music. If you stick around to the end of the episode, I tell you a secret.
And this week, it's that social media doom scrolling has become a problem because I'm not learning vital info about current events. I'm just like piecing together fragments of what's happening in the world based on other people's reactions to them and then the reactions to the reactions in the comments. And I spent...
And this week, it's that social media doom scrolling has become a problem because I'm not learning vital info about current events. I'm just like piecing together fragments of what's happening in the world based on other people's reactions to them and then the reactions to the reactions in the comments. And I spent...
And this week, it's that social media doom scrolling has become a problem because I'm not learning vital info about current events. I'm just like piecing together fragments of what's happening in the world based on other people's reactions to them and then the reactions to the reactions in the comments. And I spent...
all day Saturday on my phone, on the couch, mindlessly locked in like a tractor beam of other people's front-facing camera, hot takes, not learning much.
all day Saturday on my phone, on the couch, mindlessly locked in like a tractor beam of other people's front-facing camera, hot takes, not learning much.
all day Saturday on my phone, on the couch, mindlessly locked in like a tractor beam of other people's front-facing camera, hot takes, not learning much.
And so yesterday and today, I told myself, I said, if I looked at social media, I would have to donate $1,000 to a political action committee that goes against everything I stand for and harms women, trans people, immigrants, people of color, and our environment. If I scrolled social media, I would have to do that. Not wanting to give them $1,000 was a surefire way to keep me off of it.
And so yesterday and today, I told myself, I said, if I looked at social media, I would have to donate $1,000 to a political action committee that goes against everything I stand for and harms women, trans people, immigrants, people of color, and our environment. If I scrolled social media, I would have to do that. Not wanting to give them $1,000 was a surefire way to keep me off of it.
And so yesterday and today, I told myself, I said, if I looked at social media, I would have to donate $1,000 to a political action committee that goes against everything I stand for and harms women, trans people, immigrants, people of color, and our environment. If I scrolled social media, I would have to do that. Not wanting to give them $1,000 was a surefire way to keep me off of it.
And I had a great day off social media, consuming more comprehensive news from reliable sources. So if you feel out of sorts and constantly scared, make a bet with yourself that you cannot afford to lose. Make the stakes so high that there's no way you will do the thing that you don't want to do. Cut bangs, text your crush, we're all going to die. So chin up, keep going. Bye-bye.
And I had a great day off social media, consuming more comprehensive news from reliable sources. So if you feel out of sorts and constantly scared, make a bet with yourself that you cannot afford to lose. Make the stakes so high that there's no way you will do the thing that you don't want to do. Cut bangs, text your crush, we're all going to die. So chin up, keep going. Bye-bye.
And I had a great day off social media, consuming more comprehensive news from reliable sources. So if you feel out of sorts and constantly scared, make a bet with yourself that you cannot afford to lose. Make the stakes so high that there's no way you will do the thing that you don't want to do. Cut bangs, text your crush, we're all going to die. So chin up, keep going. Bye-bye.
So a low TSH means hyperthyroidism or an overactive gland because your body barely has to tap the gas pedal of TSH, but your thyroid is already off to the races. Now, a high TSH means your body is flooring it on the gas pedal so hard and not getting a lot of action to convert to energy. So a high TSH means low activity, hypothyroidism, and a low TSH means high activity or hyperthyroidism.
So a low TSH means hyperthyroidism or an overactive gland because your body barely has to tap the gas pedal of TSH, but your thyroid is already off to the races. Now, a high TSH means your body is flooring it on the gas pedal so hard and not getting a lot of action to convert to energy. So a high TSH means low activity, hypothyroidism, and a low TSH means high activity or hyperthyroidism.
So a low TSH means hyperthyroidism or an overactive gland because your body barely has to tap the gas pedal of TSH, but your thyroid is already off to the races. Now, a high TSH means your body is flooring it on the gas pedal so hard and not getting a lot of action to convert to energy. So a high TSH means low activity, hypothyroidism, and a low TSH means high activity or hyperthyroidism.
Just think everything's the opposite, kind of. So walk me through a backstage of the thyroid and the thyroid hormone. It squirts out what T4 to thyroxine. Tell me what is it making and what is that effect?
Just think everything's the opposite, kind of. So walk me through a backstage of the thyroid and the thyroid hormone. It squirts out what T4 to thyroxine. Tell me what is it making and what is that effect?
Just think everything's the opposite, kind of. So walk me through a backstage of the thyroid and the thyroid hormone. It squirts out what T4 to thyroxine. Tell me what is it making and what is that effect?
So the pituitary is at the wheel and at the gas pedal, and it makes that thyroid-stimulating hormone, or TSH. That tells the thyroid to release more gas, T4, and your organs say, thanks, man, I'm gonna break this down a little into T3 so we can use it for energy. So imagine your pituitary saying, We're not going anywhere. Where's the gas?
So the pituitary is at the wheel and at the gas pedal, and it makes that thyroid-stimulating hormone, or TSH. That tells the thyroid to release more gas, T4, and your organs say, thanks, man, I'm gonna break this down a little into T3 so we can use it for energy. So imagine your pituitary saying, We're not going anywhere. Where's the gas?
So the pituitary is at the wheel and at the gas pedal, and it makes that thyroid-stimulating hormone, or TSH. That tells the thyroid to release more gas, T4, and your organs say, thanks, man, I'm gonna break this down a little into T3 so we can use it for energy. So imagine your pituitary saying, We're not going anywhere. Where's the gas?
So we'll talk about your stuff momentarily. But first, let's thank all the patrons at patreon.com slash ologies who make the show possible and send in their questions. You can be one of them if you like for just a dollar a month. Also, thanks to everyone in ologies merch from ologiesmerch.com. And if you need a kid-friendly version of the show, Just a reminder that we launched Smologies recently.
So we'll talk about your stuff momentarily. But first, let's thank all the patrons at patreon.com slash ologies who make the show possible and send in their questions. You can be one of them if you like for just a dollar a month. Also, thanks to everyone in ologies merch from ologiesmerch.com. And if you need a kid-friendly version of the show, Just a reminder that we launched Smologies recently.
So we'll talk about your stuff momentarily. But first, let's thank all the patrons at patreon.com slash ologies who make the show possible and send in their questions. You can be one of them if you like for just a dollar a month. Also, thanks to everyone in ologies merch from ologiesmerch.com. And if you need a kid-friendly version of the show, Just a reminder that we launched Smologies recently.
Pumping out more TSH to be like, come on, come on, come on. Or if you have too much T4 converted to T3, your pituitary is like, whoa, easy, lead foot, and it releases less TSH.
Pumping out more TSH to be like, come on, come on, come on. Or if you have too much T4 converted to T3, your pituitary is like, whoa, easy, lead foot, and it releases less TSH.
Pumping out more TSH to be like, come on, come on, come on. Or if you have too much T4 converted to T3, your pituitary is like, whoa, easy, lead foot, and it releases less TSH.
Where's the T4 hanging out when it's on call to be T3?
Where's the T4 hanging out when it's on call to be T3?
Where's the T4 hanging out when it's on call to be T3?
Oh, it's hanging out.
Oh, it's hanging out.
Oh, it's hanging out.
Okay.
Okay.
Okay.
Do you know why they're called T3 and T4? Yep.
Do you know why they're called T3 and T4? Yep.
Do you know why they're called T3 and T4? Yep.
So what happens when you've got T3 in the body? Does it affect your adrenal systems? Does it affect cortisol?
So what happens when you've got T3 in the body? Does it affect your adrenal systems? Does it affect cortisol?
So what happens when you've got T3 in the body? Does it affect your adrenal systems? Does it affect cortisol?
If you have a low heart rate, speaking from experience, at some point my doctors were like, wow, you're athletically healthy. And then I was like, or does my thyroid suck? Because I'm not running as much as I used to. It turned out my thyroid sucked a little bit. But when someone comes to your office and they say, I think my thyroid is, let's say sluggish, what are the first things you do?
If you have a low heart rate, speaking from experience, at some point my doctors were like, wow, you're athletically healthy. And then I was like, or does my thyroid suck? Because I'm not running as much as I used to. It turned out my thyroid sucked a little bit. But when someone comes to your office and they say, I think my thyroid is, let's say sluggish, what are the first things you do?
If you have a low heart rate, speaking from experience, at some point my doctors were like, wow, you're athletically healthy. And then I was like, or does my thyroid suck? Because I'm not running as much as I used to. It turned out my thyroid sucked a little bit. But when someone comes to your office and they say, I think my thyroid is, let's say sluggish, what are the first things you do?
If they have symptoms of... hypothyroidism, but their labs are within range. Where do you go from there?
If they have symptoms of... hypothyroidism, but their labs are within range. Where do you go from there?
If they have symptoms of... hypothyroidism, but their labs are within range. Where do you go from there?
So for TSH, that thyroid stimulating hormone, in range is typically set like 0.5 to 5.0. You could be anywhere in between there, but it varies by lab. And if a patient is feeling symptoms like for hypothyroid, dry skin, feeling cold a lot, low energy, your guts are slow, you got brittle hair, Maybe you feel like the embodiment of a cold, limp stalk of celery. That's sad.
So for TSH, that thyroid stimulating hormone, in range is typically set like 0.5 to 5.0. You could be anywhere in between there, but it varies by lab. And if a patient is feeling symptoms like for hypothyroid, dry skin, feeling cold a lot, low energy, your guts are slow, you got brittle hair, Maybe you feel like the embodiment of a cold, limp stalk of celery. That's sad.
So for TSH, that thyroid stimulating hormone, in range is typically set like 0.5 to 5.0. You could be anywhere in between there, but it varies by lab. And if a patient is feeling symptoms like for hypothyroid, dry skin, feeling cold a lot, low energy, your guts are slow, you got brittle hair, Maybe you feel like the embodiment of a cold, limp stalk of celery. That's sad.
And you're in the upper end of the TSH range. Even though you're in range technically, some doctors might flag it and medicate with extra thyroid hormone or T4. Doctors can also see, no matter what your TSH is, how much T4 you're actually making. and test to see how well your organs are converting that to T3, which you can use.
And you're in the upper end of the TSH range. Even though you're in range technically, some doctors might flag it and medicate with extra thyroid hormone or T4. Doctors can also see, no matter what your TSH is, how much T4 you're actually making. and test to see how well your organs are converting that to T3, which you can use.
And you're in the upper end of the TSH range. Even though you're in range technically, some doctors might flag it and medicate with extra thyroid hormone or T4. Doctors can also see, no matter what your TSH is, how much T4 you're actually making. and test to see how well your organs are converting that to T3, which you can use.
It's a spinoff podcast in its own feed. Link in the show notes. So thank you also to everyone who leaves reviews for the show. It matters so much to us and it helps boost the show in the charts and I read all of them. And this week, Positive Steps PDX wrote that they look forward to listening every week and that it's been rad to gain knowledge from fellow queer and trans folks.
It's a spinoff podcast in its own feed. Link in the show notes. So thank you also to everyone who leaves reviews for the show. It matters so much to us and it helps boost the show in the charts and I read all of them. And this week, Positive Steps PDX wrote that they look forward to listening every week and that it's been rad to gain knowledge from fellow queer and trans folks.
It's a spinoff podcast in its own feed. Link in the show notes. So thank you also to everyone who leaves reviews for the show. It matters so much to us and it helps boost the show in the charts and I read all of them. And this week, Positive Steps PDX wrote that they look forward to listening every week and that it's been rad to gain knowledge from fellow queer and trans folks.
Now, there are medications like Synthroid, which the generic name is levothyroxine, and that is just T4, and it's kind of up to your body to make the T3 you need from it. Now, with Hashimoto's, the autoimmune issue where your immune system turns on your own thyroid, that is rude, and it's measured by high TSH as well as labs that measure antibodies to your own organ.
Now, there are medications like Synthroid, which the generic name is levothyroxine, and that is just T4, and it's kind of up to your body to make the T3 you need from it. Now, with Hashimoto's, the autoimmune issue where your immune system turns on your own thyroid, that is rude, and it's measured by high TSH as well as labs that measure antibodies to your own organ.
Now, there are medications like Synthroid, which the generic name is levothyroxine, and that is just T4, and it's kind of up to your body to make the T3 you need from it. Now, with Hashimoto's, the autoimmune issue where your immune system turns on your own thyroid, that is rude, and it's measured by high TSH as well as labs that measure antibodies to your own organ.
Mm-hmm. Do people ever try to score thyroid hormone as like an ozempic?
Mm-hmm. Do people ever try to score thyroid hormone as like an ozempic?
Mm-hmm. Do people ever try to score thyroid hormone as like an ozempic?
Yeah. So word of the wise, don't do it.
Yeah. So word of the wise, don't do it.
Yeah. So word of the wise, don't do it.
Yeah. Just like get extra coffee. Does everyone's thyroid kind of poop out as we age?
Yeah. Just like get extra coffee. Does everyone's thyroid kind of poop out as we age?
Yeah. Just like get extra coffee. Does everyone's thyroid kind of poop out as we age?
When it comes to women assigned female birth, what is the connection between autoimmune Hashimoto's and ovaries? What's going on?
When it comes to women assigned female birth, what is the connection between autoimmune Hashimoto's and ovaries? What's going on?
When it comes to women assigned female birth, what is the connection between autoimmune Hashimoto's and ovaries? What's going on?
Oh, hey, it's yesterday's medication in your jeans pocket. Oops, Ali Ward. Let's stab ourselves with information from a porcupine's business end. We have a good one. What a chat. I remember getting off this interview and being like, this is why I make the show. You're in for a treat.
Oh, hey, it's yesterday's medication in your jeans pocket. Oops, Ali Ward. Let's stab ourselves with information from a porcupine's business end. We have a good one. What a chat. I remember getting off this interview and being like, this is why I make the show. You're in for a treat.
Oh, hey, it's yesterday's medication in your jeans pocket. Oops, Ali Ward. Let's stab ourselves with information from a porcupine's business end. We have a good one. What a chat. I remember getting off this interview and being like, this is why I make the show. You're in for a treat.
20 to 30 pounds is like the size of a corgi, but a corgi that's been bred with a sea urchin.
20 to 30 pounds is like the size of a corgi, but a corgi that's been bred with a sea urchin.
20 to 30 pounds is like the size of a corgi, but a corgi that's been bred with a sea urchin.
And two gloved arms.
And two gloved arms.
And two gloved arms.
How many times do you think you've been barbed?
How many times do you think you've been barbed?
How many times do you think you've been barbed?
I did watch one YouTube video of Aldous Rose, another porcupine legend. And his capture method is to cover them with an old red igloo beer cooler, which slides shut. And then from there he can sedate them and then take them out and take measurements for like 20 or so minutes and then release them on their merry way. Now, what if you get porcupined and you are a porcupine?
I did watch one YouTube video of Aldous Rose, another porcupine legend. And his capture method is to cover them with an old red igloo beer cooler, which slides shut. And then from there he can sedate them and then take them out and take measurements for like 20 or so minutes and then release them on their merry way. Now, what if you get porcupined and you are a porcupine?
I did watch one YouTube video of Aldous Rose, another porcupine legend. And his capture method is to cover them with an old red igloo beer cooler, which slides shut. And then from there he can sedate them and then take them out and take measurements for like 20 or so minutes and then release them on their merry way. Now, what if you get porcupined and you are a porcupine?
They have little paws that are good at grasping and they just got to do their best to reach the ones embedded by their enemies. It's a risky life, but they are armed. What kind of students do you have that are drawn to this field?
They have little paws that are good at grasping and they just got to do their best to reach the ones embedded by their enemies. It's a risky life, but they are armed. What kind of students do you have that are drawn to this field?
They have little paws that are good at grasping and they just got to do their best to reach the ones embedded by their enemies. It's a risky life, but they are armed. What kind of students do you have that are drawn to this field?
But the ology for this, let's just say erythrozinology, which comes from the Greek for... There's two major groups of porcupines. We're going to include both in this episode, but mostly we're focusing on the genus Erythrozon. Is that cool? Okay, great.
But the ology for this, let's just say erythrozinology, which comes from the Greek for... There's two major groups of porcupines. We're going to include both in this episode, but mostly we're focusing on the genus Erythrozon. Is that cool? Okay, great.
But the ology for this, let's just say erythrozinology, which comes from the Greek for... There's two major groups of porcupines. We're going to include both in this episode, but mostly we're focusing on the genus Erythrozon. Is that cool? Okay, great.
Do you know that I just realized right now that a porcupine actually inspired this entire podcast to exist? And I have not thought about it until right now. Is that true? Yes. There was a guest named Phil Torres, who's amazing. And now he's on Expedition Unknown on Discovery. But he studied butterflies in the jungle. But he was a friend before I started this podcast.
Do you know that I just realized right now that a porcupine actually inspired this entire podcast to exist? And I have not thought about it until right now. Is that true? Yes. There was a guest named Phil Torres, who's amazing. And now he's on Expedition Unknown on Discovery. But he studied butterflies in the jungle. But he was a friend before I started this podcast.
Do you know that I just realized right now that a porcupine actually inspired this entire podcast to exist? And I have not thought about it until right now. Is that true? Yes. There was a guest named Phil Torres, who's amazing. And now he's on Expedition Unknown on Discovery. But he studied butterflies in the jungle. But he was a friend before I started this podcast.
And he once told the story about how he was studying butterflies in the jungles of Peru. And he's also... hunky to the point where it's comical. And he's married to an absolutely beautiful Norwegian model. And they're also incredibly nice, which is infuriating. It's maddening because they're good people. But to make his way through Cornell, he modeled for Abercrombie. It's
And he once told the story about how he was studying butterflies in the jungles of Peru. And he's also... hunky to the point where it's comical. And he's married to an absolutely beautiful Norwegian model. And they're also incredibly nice, which is infuriating. It's maddening because they're good people. But to make his way through Cornell, he modeled for Abercrombie. It's
And he once told the story about how he was studying butterflies in the jungles of Peru. And he's also... hunky to the point where it's comical. And he's married to an absolutely beautiful Norwegian model. And they're also incredibly nice, which is infuriating. It's maddening because they're good people. But to make his way through Cornell, he modeled for Abercrombie. It's
You're just like, fuck you, Phil. And we love him. Anyway, he was talking about once he was in the jungles of Peru and he had to chase a porcupine out of his hut with his acoustic guitar. Yeah. You were like gently nudged out. But I was like, if these are the type of stories that field biologists have, I need to hear more of them.
You're just like, fuck you, Phil. And we love him. Anyway, he was talking about once he was in the jungles of Peru and he had to chase a porcupine out of his hut with his acoustic guitar. Yeah. You were like gently nudged out. But I was like, if these are the type of stories that field biologists have, I need to hear more of them.
You're just like, fuck you, Phil. And we love him. Anyway, he was talking about once he was in the jungles of Peru and he had to chase a porcupine out of his hut with his acoustic guitar. Yeah. You were like gently nudged out. But I was like, if these are the type of stories that field biologists have, I need to hear more of them.
Because the idea of like a shirtless Abercrombie model having to scoot a porcupine out of a hut with a acoustic guitar was like, those are the stories that need to be heard.
Because the idea of like a shirtless Abercrombie model having to scoot a porcupine out of a hut with a acoustic guitar was like, those are the stories that need to be heard.
Because the idea of like a shirtless Abercrombie model having to scoot a porcupine out of a hut with a acoustic guitar was like, those are the stories that need to be heard.
So get suited up for a thrilling array of weird stories involving barbs, grunts, squeaks, cartoonish noses, romantic gestures that will leave you wanting to bleach your brain, counting quills, male models, flim-flam about quill removal, how to spot a porcupine in the wild, and so much more with professor, ecologist, and erythrozinologist, Dr. Tim Bean. Do you get called Jim Beam a lot?
So get suited up for a thrilling array of weird stories involving barbs, grunts, squeaks, cartoonish noses, romantic gestures that will leave you wanting to bleach your brain, counting quills, male models, flim-flam about quill removal, how to spot a porcupine in the wild, and so much more with professor, ecologist, and erythrozinologist, Dr. Tim Bean. Do you get called Jim Beam a lot?
So get suited up for a thrilling array of weird stories involving barbs, grunts, squeaks, cartoonish noses, romantic gestures that will leave you wanting to bleach your brain, counting quills, male models, flim-flam about quill removal, how to spot a porcupine in the wild, and so much more with professor, ecologist, and erythrozinologist, Dr. Tim Bean. Do you get called Jim Beam a lot?
Eleven months out of the year, preggers are nursing. They get one month off. Give these ladies a break, Mother Nature. Why do you hate them? Now, an elderly porcupine would be like 10 years old, but usually they only live to around five in the wild. Now, the upside of that short life is you start early. You're horny. You're ready to reproduce at 18 months old.
Eleven months out of the year, preggers are nursing. They get one month off. Give these ladies a break, Mother Nature. Why do you hate them? Now, an elderly porcupine would be like 10 years old, but usually they only live to around five in the wild. Now, the upside of that short life is you start early. You're horny. You're ready to reproduce at 18 months old.
Eleven months out of the year, preggers are nursing. They get one month off. Give these ladies a break, Mother Nature. Why do you hate them? Now, an elderly porcupine would be like 10 years old, but usually they only live to around five in the wild. Now, the upside of that short life is you start early. You're horny. You're ready to reproduce at 18 months old.
But those uber maternal lady porcupines, though?
But those uber maternal lady porcupines, though?
But those uber maternal lady porcupines, though?
Wait, if copulation takes one to five minutes, and they're doing it for eight hours, is there a refractory period?
Wait, if copulation takes one to five minutes, and they're doing it for eight hours, is there a refractory period?
Wait, if copulation takes one to five minutes, and they're doing it for eight hours, is there a refractory period?
Usually the same dominant male and then all the other ones who made the commute are just like, well, I guess, bye.
Usually the same dominant male and then all the other ones who made the commute are just like, well, I guess, bye.
Usually the same dominant male and then all the other ones who made the commute are just like, well, I guess, bye.
What about their locomotion? Because if they have a 12-hour window to make it a couple miles to maybe get a chance with a lady, are they just booking ass?
What about their locomotion? Because if they have a 12-hour window to make it a couple miles to maybe get a chance with a lady, are they just booking ass?
What about their locomotion? Because if they have a 12-hour window to make it a couple miles to maybe get a chance with a lady, are they just booking ass?
Okay, so we've got an associate professor from San Luis Obispo's California Polytechnic State University, Cal Poly, who teaches courses like this. Introduction to Wildlife Conservation and Administration. They studied ecology, evolution, and environmental biology at Columbia University. They headed to UC Berkeley for a master's and PhD in environmental science policy and management.
Okay, so we've got an associate professor from San Luis Obispo's California Polytechnic State University, Cal Poly, who teaches courses like this. Introduction to Wildlife Conservation and Administration. They studied ecology, evolution, and environmental biology at Columbia University. They headed to UC Berkeley for a master's and PhD in environmental science policy and management.
Okay, so we've got an associate professor from San Luis Obispo's California Polytechnic State University, Cal Poly, who teaches courses like this. Introduction to Wildlife Conservation and Administration. They studied ecology, evolution, and environmental biology at Columbia University. They headed to UC Berkeley for a master's and PhD in environmental science policy and management.
So she like sends out a text. She sends out a group text or tweet, and then she waits for them to Uber their little asses over.
So she like sends out a text. She sends out a group text or tweet, and then she waits for them to Uber their little asses over.
So she like sends out a text. She sends out a group text or tweet, and then she waits for them to Uber their little asses over.
Yeah. Well, is it, how do they, with all of the quills, are they just missionary style? How are they doing that?
Yeah. Well, is it, how do they, with all of the quills, are they just missionary style? How are they doing that?
Yeah. Well, is it, how do they, with all of the quills, are they just missionary style? How are they doing that?
So remember, the bottom of her tail is like a soft, quill-less landing strip that she lays down on her own back for his little tender, quill-less belly. And he doesn't get quilled.
So remember, the bottom of her tail is like a soft, quill-less landing strip that she lays down on her own back for his little tender, quill-less belly. And he doesn't get quilled.
So remember, the bottom of her tail is like a soft, quill-less landing strip that she lays down on her own back for his little tender, quill-less belly. And he doesn't get quilled.
Yeah, that's awkward. But for the most part, the muscles that would sort of like boyoing them are not going to be activated.
Yeah, that's awkward. But for the most part, the muscles that would sort of like boyoing them are not going to be activated.
Yeah, that's awkward. But for the most part, the muscles that would sort of like boyoing them are not going to be activated.
Okay. That makes sense evolutionarily, right? Because that would really be a conflict of interest.
Okay. That makes sense evolutionarily, right? Because that would really be a conflict of interest.
Okay. That makes sense evolutionarily, right? Because that would really be a conflict of interest.
It's like Edward Scissorhands, but Edward syringe fingers. And each one comes loaded with just a little doxycycline. No copay. Oh, what a bummer for them. How long are they alive?
It's like Edward Scissorhands, but Edward syringe fingers. And each one comes loaded with just a little doxycycline. No copay. Oh, what a bummer for them. How long are they alive?
It's like Edward Scissorhands, but Edward syringe fingers. And each one comes loaded with just a little doxycycline. No copay. Oh, what a bummer for them. How long are they alive?
Now, usually we save our patron audio questions for the second half, but who cares? Nothing matters. We're going to break the rules. Let's lose our minds. My mind's already lost. Let's get unhinged. Let's get rebellious with a Patreon question early.
Now, usually we save our patron audio questions for the second half, but who cares? Nothing matters. We're going to break the rules. Let's lose our minds. My mind's already lost. Let's get unhinged. Let's get rebellious with a Patreon question early.
Now, usually we save our patron audio questions for the second half, but who cares? Nothing matters. We're going to break the rules. Let's lose our minds. My mind's already lost. Let's get unhinged. Let's get rebellious with a Patreon question early.
Yeah, Erin, it does. I hate that for you. Now, how do you not go to a zoo to see one? How hard is it to see a porcupine? Are they just up in the trees and good luck?
Yeah, Erin, it does. I hate that for you. Now, how do you not go to a zoo to see one? How hard is it to see a porcupine? Are they just up in the trees and good luck?
Yeah, Erin, it does. I hate that for you. Now, how do you not go to a zoo to see one? How hard is it to see a porcupine? Are they just up in the trees and good luck?
Does your dog know how to go sniff them out? Why are dogs getting porcupined so much?
Does your dog know how to go sniff them out? Why are dogs getting porcupined so much?
Does your dog know how to go sniff them out? Why are dogs getting porcupined so much?
While editing this episode, I spotted a note in the transcript left by lead editor Mercedes Maitland. She just wanted to tell me that her quote, now departed family dog, a standard poodle named Bentley, got quilled by the same dead porcupine three times. She continues, we lived in the country and he would go off and find it in the woods.
While editing this episode, I spotted a note in the transcript left by lead editor Mercedes Maitland. She just wanted to tell me that her quote, now departed family dog, a standard poodle named Bentley, got quilled by the same dead porcupine three times. She continues, we lived in the country and he would go off and find it in the woods.
While editing this episode, I spotted a note in the transcript left by lead editor Mercedes Maitland. She just wanted to tell me that her quote, now departed family dog, a standard poodle named Bentley, got quilled by the same dead porcupine three times. She continues, we lived in the country and he would go off and find it in the woods.
My parents eventually had to comb the woods, she says, for the carcass so they could dump it somewhere far, far away. Bentley was otherwise a very smart dog, but I guess that porcupine smell was just too hard to resist. He also got skunked a few times in his six years, she said, so I guess he was not smart when it came to his nose. Mercedes wanted to tell me that. I wanted to tell you that.
My parents eventually had to comb the woods, she says, for the carcass so they could dump it somewhere far, far away. Bentley was otherwise a very smart dog, but I guess that porcupine smell was just too hard to resist. He also got skunked a few times in his six years, she said, so I guess he was not smart when it came to his nose. Mercedes wanted to tell me that. I wanted to tell you that.
My parents eventually had to comb the woods, she says, for the carcass so they could dump it somewhere far, far away. Bentley was otherwise a very smart dog, but I guess that porcupine smell was just too hard to resist. He also got skunked a few times in his six years, she said, so I guess he was not smart when it came to his nose. Mercedes wanted to tell me that. I wanted to tell you that.
Tim Kim Jim Beam?
Tim Kim Jim Beam?
Tim Kim Jim Beam?
Mercedes, that's insane, and I love it. Also, if you're just now realizing that you have a special interest in the musk of large rodents, you can enjoy our recent castorology episode on beavers, in which we discuss at length how their internal scent sacs made it into your ice cream way back then. Anyway, let's return to that thorn pig stink.
Mercedes, that's insane, and I love it. Also, if you're just now realizing that you have a special interest in the musk of large rodents, you can enjoy our recent castorology episode on beavers, in which we discuss at length how their internal scent sacs made it into your ice cream way back then. Anyway, let's return to that thorn pig stink.
Mercedes, that's insane, and I love it. Also, if you're just now realizing that you have a special interest in the musk of large rodents, you can enjoy our recent castorology episode on beavers, in which we discuss at length how their internal scent sacs made it into your ice cream way back then. Anyway, let's return to that thorn pig stink.
When you say nothing I've ever smelled before, I understand that then that means that none of us can possibly understand. But would you say it's closer to the skunk, closer to the fragrance of a rose, fruity, musky? Yeah.
When you say nothing I've ever smelled before, I understand that then that means that none of us can possibly understand. But would you say it's closer to the skunk, closer to the fragrance of a rose, fruity, musky? Yeah.
When you say nothing I've ever smelled before, I understand that then that means that none of us can possibly understand. But would you say it's closer to the skunk, closer to the fragrance of a rose, fruity, musky? Yeah.
Do people ever call you Dr. Porcupine?
Do people ever call you Dr. Porcupine?
Do people ever call you Dr. Porcupine?
As a field ecologist who is looking for porcupines, if you start to smell that on the wind, are you excited?
As a field ecologist who is looking for porcupines, if you start to smell that on the wind, are you excited?
As a field ecologist who is looking for porcupines, if you start to smell that on the wind, are you excited?
I looked around to find some other olfactory analogs to porcupine essence, and I saw it suggests a strong cheese mixed with weed and barnyard animals. But the most compelling comparison I read was from a wildlife rehabber on Reddit who described it as just like human body odor and ripe. So a squeaky, grunting gym bag that can pierce your face. It's thrilling. What is that like when it's spotted?
I looked around to find some other olfactory analogs to porcupine essence, and I saw it suggests a strong cheese mixed with weed and barnyard animals. But the most compelling comparison I read was from a wildlife rehabber on Reddit who described it as just like human body odor and ripe. So a squeaky, grunting gym bag that can pierce your face. It's thrilling. What is that like when it's spotted?
I looked around to find some other olfactory analogs to porcupine essence, and I saw it suggests a strong cheese mixed with weed and barnyard animals. But the most compelling comparison I read was from a wildlife rehabber on Reddit who described it as just like human body odor and ripe. So a squeaky, grunting gym bag that can pierce your face. It's thrilling. What is that like when it's spotted?
You're like, that's a really good Marvel character. Just like shooting quills out of your wrists at people.
You're like, that's a really good Marvel character. Just like shooting quills out of your wrists at people.
You're like, that's a really good Marvel character. Just like shooting quills out of your wrists at people.
When someone's like, there it is, there it is. Is that like a kind of routine or does that make your whole day?
When someone's like, there it is, there it is. Is that like a kind of routine or does that make your whole day?
When someone's like, there it is, there it is. Is that like a kind of routine or does that make your whole day?
You're like, our posse just grew by one. Well, you mentioned summer nights. Do they tend to hibernate in the winter? Are they nocturnal? Why is that a good time?
You're like, our posse just grew by one. Well, you mentioned summer nights. Do they tend to hibernate in the winter? Are they nocturnal? Why is that a good time?
You're like, our posse just grew by one. Well, you mentioned summer nights. Do they tend to hibernate in the winter? Are they nocturnal? Why is that a good time?
What do you think of Teddy the porcupine?
What do you think of Teddy the porcupine?
What do you think of Teddy the porcupine?
I know.
I know.
I know.
I was so worried you were going to say, Teddy is, and then a long pause, complicated. Finding out Teddy was racist or was illegally poached or something. Just a quick side note, Teddy Bear the porcupine is a rescue critter taken in by Idaho's Earth Fire Institute, and they say he's a robust, sometimes moody animal who accepts fresh willow branches and spruce logs, but he likes other treats.
I was so worried you were going to say, Teddy is, and then a long pause, complicated. Finding out Teddy was racist or was illegally poached or something. Just a quick side note, Teddy Bear the porcupine is a rescue critter taken in by Idaho's Earth Fire Institute, and they say he's a robust, sometimes moody animal who accepts fresh willow branches and spruce logs, but he likes other treats.
I was so worried you were going to say, Teddy is, and then a long pause, complicated. Finding out Teddy was racist or was illegally poached or something. Just a quick side note, Teddy Bear the porcupine is a rescue critter taken in by Idaho's Earth Fire Institute, and they say he's a robust, sometimes moody animal who accepts fresh willow branches and spruce logs, but he likes other treats.
Okay, actually, porcupines. I feel like underneath their quills, they gotta be the cuddliest little babies.
Okay, actually, porcupines. I feel like underneath their quills, they gotta be the cuddliest little babies.
Okay, actually, porcupines. I feel like underneath their quills, they gotta be the cuddliest little babies.
And his caretakers note that Teddy was once called Piney until, via an animal communicator, he voiced that he wanted to be called something softer and cuddlier, as he, quote, didn't feel his essence was prickly at all. And the sanctuary notes that as most people don't know that porcupines are sweet and gentle, changing Piney's name to Teddy Bear will be a good opportunity for education.
And his caretakers note that Teddy was once called Piney until, via an animal communicator, he voiced that he wanted to be called something softer and cuddlier, as he, quote, didn't feel his essence was prickly at all. And the sanctuary notes that as most people don't know that porcupines are sweet and gentle, changing Piney's name to Teddy Bear will be a good opportunity for education.
And his caretakers note that Teddy was once called Piney until, via an animal communicator, he voiced that he wanted to be called something softer and cuddlier, as he, quote, didn't feel his essence was prickly at all. And the sanctuary notes that as most people don't know that porcupines are sweet and gentle, changing Piney's name to Teddy Bear will be a good opportunity for education.
And now Teddy is famous on the internet. When Teddy eats a pumpkin, say, and our brains get flooded with serotonin, do most porcupines make that noise if they're munching on something? Or is Teddy just particularly like a bon vivant?
And now Teddy is famous on the internet. When Teddy eats a pumpkin, say, and our brains get flooded with serotonin, do most porcupines make that noise if they're munching on something? Or is Teddy just particularly like a bon vivant?
And now Teddy is famous on the internet. When Teddy eats a pumpkin, say, and our brains get flooded with serotonin, do most porcupines make that noise if they're munching on something? Or is Teddy just particularly like a bon vivant?
Porcupette. This one word is the thin string holding up my sanity in 2025.
Porcupette. This one word is the thin string holding up my sanity in 2025.
Porcupette. This one word is the thin string holding up my sanity in 2025.
Can I ask you approximately a thousand questions from listeners?
Can I ask you approximately a thousand questions from listeners?
Can I ask you approximately a thousand questions from listeners?
Oh my God. Okay. Stephanie Rosso wants to know, are there any predators that are undeterred by their quills? Like what are porcupine predators? Curtis Takahashi says, it seems like they'd be a very painful prize. Mouse Paxton, Anastasia Doherty, Jalene Tangan, John Wallace, and Olivia Lester all asked. Olivia asked, what animals don't care about eating the spines?
Oh my God. Okay. Stephanie Rosso wants to know, are there any predators that are undeterred by their quills? Like what are porcupine predators? Curtis Takahashi says, it seems like they'd be a very painful prize. Mouse Paxton, Anastasia Doherty, Jalene Tangan, John Wallace, and Olivia Lester all asked. Olivia asked, what animals don't care about eating the spines?
Oh my God. Okay. Stephanie Rosso wants to know, are there any predators that are undeterred by their quills? Like what are porcupine predators? Curtis Takahashi says, it seems like they'd be a very painful prize. Mouse Paxton, Anastasia Doherty, Jalene Tangan, John Wallace, and Olivia Lester all asked. Olivia asked, what animals don't care about eating the spines?
And we'll get to the answer of that question in just one moment. But first, let's eject some money into a tender cause. And this week, it's the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society. And the NAFWS is a national tribal organization seeking to expand the exchange of information and management techniques related to self-determined tribal fish and wildlife management.
And we'll get to the answer of that question in just one moment. But first, let's eject some money into a tender cause. And this week, it's the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society. And the NAFWS is a national tribal organization seeking to expand the exchange of information and management techniques related to self-determined tribal fish and wildlife management.
And we'll get to the answer of that question in just one moment. But first, let's eject some money into a tender cause. And this week, it's the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society. And the NAFWS is a national tribal organization seeking to expand the exchange of information and management techniques related to self-determined tribal fish and wildlife management.
Also, Tim told me that one soapbox he'd like to get on is that Congress passed the 1973 Endangered Species Act, to appropriate some money to research on species of special concern. However, Tim told me, federally recognized tribes are not eligible to apply for these funding sources.
Also, Tim told me that one soapbox he'd like to get on is that Congress passed the 1973 Endangered Species Act, to appropriate some money to research on species of special concern. However, Tim told me, federally recognized tribes are not eligible to apply for these funding sources.
Also, Tim told me that one soapbox he'd like to get on is that Congress passed the 1973 Endangered Species Act, to appropriate some money to research on species of special concern. However, Tim told me, federally recognized tribes are not eligible to apply for these funding sources.
They have a separate and much smaller pot of money that's dedicated to tribal management of wildlife, and it amounts to about one-sixth of the money per acre, which sucks. And Tim wanted you to know about that and also that the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society is a worthy cause.
They have a separate and much smaller pot of money that's dedicated to tribal management of wildlife, and it amounts to about one-sixth of the money per acre, which sucks. And Tim wanted you to know about that and also that the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society is a worthy cause.
They have a separate and much smaller pot of money that's dedicated to tribal management of wildlife, and it amounts to about one-sixth of the money per acre, which sucks. And Tim wanted you to know about that and also that the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society is a worthy cause.
So thank you to Tim for the heads up and to the NAFWS for their work and to everyone who cares about land stewardship and ecology. And that donation was made possible by our sponsors. Okay, back to that question. Who dares to eat a porcupine for lunch? Your dog obviously sucks at it, but some critter must be able to conquer them, right?
So thank you to Tim for the heads up and to the NAFWS for their work and to everyone who cares about land stewardship and ecology. And that donation was made possible by our sponsors. Okay, back to that question. Who dares to eat a porcupine for lunch? Your dog obviously sucks at it, but some critter must be able to conquer them, right?
So thank you to Tim for the heads up and to the NAFWS for their work and to everyone who cares about land stewardship and ecology. And that donation was made possible by our sponsors. Okay, back to that question. Who dares to eat a porcupine for lunch? Your dog obviously sucks at it, but some critter must be able to conquer them, right?
If you wanted to be in some sort of close relationship with them, I feel like they would have avoidant attachment issues.
If you wanted to be in some sort of close relationship with them, I feel like they would have avoidant attachment issues.
If you wanted to be in some sort of close relationship with them, I feel like they would have avoidant attachment issues.
So kind of like how your mom or your guardian might teach you to peel a banana or cut a pineapple or watch your drink at a bar.
So kind of like how your mom or your guardian might teach you to peel a banana or cut a pineapple or watch your drink at a bar.
So kind of like how your mom or your guardian might teach you to peel a banana or cut a pineapple or watch your drink at a bar.
So fishers eat the face. Martins eat babies through snow tunnels. Mountain lions go for the guts first. And Tim says that coyotes and bobcats are also able to get a bite of them here and there. And owls, how are owls even attempting this? They're like small chickens. Well, through surprise attacks to the face.
So fishers eat the face. Martins eat babies through snow tunnels. Mountain lions go for the guts first. And Tim says that coyotes and bobcats are also able to get a bite of them here and there. And owls, how are owls even attempting this? They're like small chickens. Well, through surprise attacks to the face.
So fishers eat the face. Martins eat babies through snow tunnels. Mountain lions go for the guts first. And Tim says that coyotes and bobcats are also able to get a bite of them here and there. And owls, how are owls even attempting this? They're like small chickens. Well, through surprise attacks to the face.
Sometimes it works out well for them, but wildlife rehabbers tell tales of demoralized owls whose failure has to be plucked out of their flesh one by one. Now, as for the South American porcupines, this 2020 article in the journal Foodwebs titled, Predation of a Brazilian Porcupine by an Ocelot and a Mineral Lick in the Peruvian Amazon,
Sometimes it works out well for them, but wildlife rehabbers tell tales of demoralized owls whose failure has to be plucked out of their flesh one by one. Now, as for the South American porcupines, this 2020 article in the journal Foodwebs titled, Predation of a Brazilian Porcupine by an Ocelot and a Mineral Lick in the Peruvian Amazon,
Sometimes it works out well for them, but wildlife rehabbers tell tales of demoralized owls whose failure has to be plucked out of their flesh one by one. Now, as for the South American porcupines, this 2020 article in the journal Foodwebs titled, Predation of a Brazilian Porcupine by an Ocelot and a Mineral Lick in the Peruvian Amazon,
explains that when a patch of salt becomes kind of like a local pub for porcupines, they are vulnerable to the bravest of predators, including the ocelot. Now, the African porcupines, they got to watch out for hyenas and lions and leopards. But how scary are porcupines, like using numbers? Is it mostly an entry through the face?
explains that when a patch of salt becomes kind of like a local pub for porcupines, they are vulnerable to the bravest of predators, including the ocelot. Now, the African porcupines, they got to watch out for hyenas and lions and leopards. But how scary are porcupines, like using numbers? Is it mostly an entry through the face?
explains that when a patch of salt becomes kind of like a local pub for porcupines, they are vulnerable to the bravest of predators, including the ocelot. Now, the African porcupines, they got to watch out for hyenas and lions and leopards. But how scary are porcupines, like using numbers? Is it mostly an entry through the face?
Yikes. Yeah. Olivier Callas, Alexander von Fritzie Bitz, and his mom, Issa Brillard, and Eating Dog Hair for a Living, want to ask, Alexander asks, how many quills do they have? Is there an average number? Is it like 4,000 or does it totally vary by species?
Yikes. Yeah. Olivier Callas, Alexander von Fritzie Bitz, and his mom, Issa Brillard, and Eating Dog Hair for a Living, want to ask, Alexander asks, how many quills do they have? Is there an average number? Is it like 4,000 or does it totally vary by species?
Yikes. Yeah. Olivier Callas, Alexander von Fritzie Bitz, and his mom, Issa Brillard, and Eating Dog Hair for a Living, want to ask, Alexander asks, how many quills do they have? Is there an average number? Is it like 4,000 or does it totally vary by species?
I was going to ask, how do you get that?
I was going to ask, how do you get that?
I was going to ask, how do you get that?
Oh, man. I think that if you were really feeling like not super social, it would be nice to just be like, I'm just going to dip in the back and just count some quills for a while.
Oh, man. I think that if you were really feeling like not super social, it would be nice to just be like, I'm just going to dip in the back and just count some quills for a while.
Oh, man. I think that if you were really feeling like not super social, it would be nice to just be like, I'm just going to dip in the back and just count some quills for a while.
Nobody talk to me. Everywhere you Google, every old yellowed mammology book you scour, you will find that 30,000 quills quote. And I kept digging further and further for the true source. And it led me to a 1972 paper that then quoted E.R. Hall's Mammals of Nevada.
Nobody talk to me. Everywhere you Google, every old yellowed mammology book you scour, you will find that 30,000 quills quote. And I kept digging further and further for the true source. And it led me to a 1972 paper that then quoted E.R. Hall's Mammals of Nevada.
Nobody talk to me. Everywhere you Google, every old yellowed mammology book you scour, you will find that 30,000 quills quote. And I kept digging further and further for the true source. And it led me to a 1972 paper that then quoted E.R. Hall's Mammals of Nevada.
which is a famed and well-respected 1946 book, which had no cited source, but every other paper I found cited the 1946 book or each other. I was on this research loop. It felt like driving in a roundabout. But finally, I located a more recent 2017 paper in the Journal of Dairy and Veterinary Sciences.
which is a famed and well-respected 1946 book, which had no cited source, but every other paper I found cited the 1946 book or each other. I was on this research loop. It felt like driving in a roundabout. But finally, I located a more recent 2017 paper in the Journal of Dairy and Veterinary Sciences.
which is a famed and well-respected 1946 book, which had no cited source, but every other paper I found cited the 1946 book or each other. I was on this research loop. It felt like driving in a roundabout. But finally, I located a more recent 2017 paper in the Journal of Dairy and Veterinary Sciences.
by a researcher out of the University of Calgary, and it was titled, Getting to the Point, How Many Quills Does a North American Porcupine Have? And the methodology section read, The dorsal surface, or back, was denuded and the quills sorted. Quills were then counted by the number of sharp, pointed ends. The results?
by a researcher out of the University of Calgary, and it was titled, Getting to the Point, How Many Quills Does a North American Porcupine Have? And the methodology section read, The dorsal surface, or back, was denuded and the quills sorted. Quills were then counted by the number of sharp, pointed ends. The results?
by a researcher out of the University of Calgary, and it was titled, Getting to the Point, How Many Quills Does a North American Porcupine Have? And the methodology section read, The dorsal surface, or back, was denuded and the quills sorted. Quills were then counted by the number of sharp, pointed ends. The results?
Is there an easy way to handle a porcupine? If you're a porcupine researcher, what kind of gloves are you working with?
Is there an easy way to handle a porcupine? If you're a porcupine researcher, what kind of gloves are you working with?
Is there an easy way to handle a porcupine? If you're a porcupine researcher, what kind of gloves are you working with?
The author counted 44,006 quills, which, they note, is 46.7% greater than the original claim of 30,000 quills made by E.R. Hall in 1946. Now, this information means nothing to you, probably, but I needed to find out to get a little bit of closure in my life. Also, counting up to 44,000 sounds tedious, but it has been done for science. People wanted to know, when do they get the quills?
The author counted 44,006 quills, which, they note, is 46.7% greater than the original claim of 30,000 quills made by E.R. Hall in 1946. Now, this information means nothing to you, probably, but I needed to find out to get a little bit of closure in my life. Also, counting up to 44,000 sounds tedious, but it has been done for science. People wanted to know, when do they get the quills?
The author counted 44,006 quills, which, they note, is 46.7% greater than the original claim of 30,000 quills made by E.R. Hall in 1946. Now, this information means nothing to you, probably, but I needed to find out to get a little bit of closure in my life. Also, counting up to 44,000 sounds tedious, but it has been done for science. People wanted to know, when do they get the quills?
Ruby Gordon, Issa Brillard, Olivia Lester, Gretchen Schroeder, Katie Biardi, Cheryl Buechner, Brittany Corrigan, Nicole Kleinman, Sammy, Annalise de Young, Alexa Roth, and... Jonathan asks, is it painful for a mama porcupine to give birth? Julia Bingham wanted to know, are they born spiky? When do their pricks become properly prickly?
Ruby Gordon, Issa Brillard, Olivia Lester, Gretchen Schroeder, Katie Biardi, Cheryl Buechner, Brittany Corrigan, Nicole Kleinman, Sammy, Annalise de Young, Alexa Roth, and... Jonathan asks, is it painful for a mama porcupine to give birth? Julia Bingham wanted to know, are they born spiky? When do their pricks become properly prickly?
Ruby Gordon, Issa Brillard, Olivia Lester, Gretchen Schroeder, Katie Biardi, Cheryl Buechner, Brittany Corrigan, Nicole Kleinman, Sammy, Annalise de Young, Alexa Roth, and... Jonathan asks, is it painful for a mama porcupine to give birth? Julia Bingham wanted to know, are they born spiky? When do their pricks become properly prickly?
Chrysalis said, I pet a baby porcupine once right on his soft little snoot.
Chrysalis said, I pet a baby porcupine once right on his soft little snoot.
Chrysalis said, I pet a baby porcupine once right on his soft little snoot.
He didn't have sharp quills yet. So yeah, when do they start to grow those?
He didn't have sharp quills yet. So yeah, when do they start to grow those?
He didn't have sharp quills yet. So yeah, when do they start to grow those?
Oh, within a few hours?
Oh, within a few hours?
Oh, within a few hours?
And you said they're made of keratin. Is that kind of like having a soggy fingernail that dries out?
And you said they're made of keratin. Is that kind of like having a soggy fingernail that dries out?
And you said they're made of keratin. Is that kind of like having a soggy fingernail that dries out?
Yeah, interesting. This next one was asked by Charlotte Parkinson, Olivia Callis, Lisa Gorman, Jennifer Lemon, Anthony Richards, Caitlin Morrison, Carol, Catherine Vela, Emily Totaro, and... Aurora Cullen and Zed Shurigane wanted to know, in Zed's words, do they regrow the spines that they lose during altercations or is it just a one and done deal?
Yeah, interesting. This next one was asked by Charlotte Parkinson, Olivia Callis, Lisa Gorman, Jennifer Lemon, Anthony Richards, Caitlin Morrison, Carol, Catherine Vela, Emily Totaro, and... Aurora Cullen and Zed Shurigane wanted to know, in Zed's words, do they regrow the spines that they lose during altercations or is it just a one and done deal?
Yeah, interesting. This next one was asked by Charlotte Parkinson, Olivia Callis, Lisa Gorman, Jennifer Lemon, Anthony Richards, Caitlin Morrison, Carol, Catherine Vela, Emily Totaro, and... Aurora Cullen and Zed Shurigane wanted to know, in Zed's words, do they regrow the spines that they lose during altercations or is it just a one and done deal?
Do they shed them and regrow them like we do hair?
Do they shed them and regrow them like we do hair?
Do they shed them and regrow them like we do hair?
Oh, so they just come and go.
Oh, so they just come and go.
Oh, so they just come and go.
Does that mean that you might find porcupine quills just in the leaf litter in the forest?
Does that mean that you might find porcupine quills just in the leaf litter in the forest?
Does that mean that you might find porcupine quills just in the leaf litter in the forest?
Mouse Paxton, Chris Curious, Danai Sprouse, and Lisa Verge wanted to know, what is the best way to remove quills from a pet if they go after a porcupine, Mouse asks. Dana Sprouse said they suck to yank out of a dog's nose. So Danai, I'm sorry about your dog. How do vets get them out?
Mouse Paxton, Chris Curious, Danai Sprouse, and Lisa Verge wanted to know, what is the best way to remove quills from a pet if they go after a porcupine, Mouse asks. Dana Sprouse said they suck to yank out of a dog's nose. So Danai, I'm sorry about your dog. How do vets get them out?
Mouse Paxton, Chris Curious, Danai Sprouse, and Lisa Verge wanted to know, what is the best way to remove quills from a pet if they go after a porcupine, Mouse asks. Dana Sprouse said they suck to yank out of a dog's nose. So Danai, I'm sorry about your dog. How do vets get them out?
Okay, so I dipped deeper into this topic and I found an article written by Dr. Seth Bynum, a veterinarian and also presumably a hunter as it was published in the magazine, Gun Dog. But he says that as long as the pup is safely restrained, you can use pliers or like a Leatherman to grip them one by one at the base of the quill.
Okay, so I dipped deeper into this topic and I found an article written by Dr. Seth Bynum, a veterinarian and also presumably a hunter as it was published in the magazine, Gun Dog. But he says that as long as the pup is safely restrained, you can use pliers or like a Leatherman to grip them one by one at the base of the quill.
Okay, so I dipped deeper into this topic and I found an article written by Dr. Seth Bynum, a veterinarian and also presumably a hunter as it was published in the magazine, Gun Dog. But he says that as long as the pup is safely restrained, you can use pliers or like a Leatherman to grip them one by one at the base of the quill.
And he writes, employ a firm and purposeful grip and pull with the same enthusiasm. But it might hurt a little. And so go slow and don't get greedy is his advice. Or you risk breaking the quills off if you try to remove them like several at a time. And when you're removing them,
And he writes, employ a firm and purposeful grip and pull with the same enthusiasm. But it might hurt a little. And so go slow and don't get greedy is his advice. Or you risk breaking the quills off if you try to remove them like several at a time. And when you're removing them,
And he writes, employ a firm and purposeful grip and pull with the same enthusiasm. But it might hurt a little. And so go slow and don't get greedy is his advice. Or you risk breaking the quills off if you try to remove them like several at a time. And when you're removing them,
He says put them all in one place or like in a dish of water so they don't roll around or get lost underfoot and then stab you doubly. Now, if the victim has a bunch around the eyes or in the mouth, Seth says a vet visit is in order because there are nooks and crannies that quills can burrow into like in the gums or the eye and left undiscovered that can lead to a lot of pain.
He says put them all in one place or like in a dish of water so they don't roll around or get lost underfoot and then stab you doubly. Now, if the victim has a bunch around the eyes or in the mouth, Seth says a vet visit is in order because there are nooks and crannies that quills can burrow into like in the gums or the eye and left undiscovered that can lead to a lot of pain.
He says put them all in one place or like in a dish of water so they don't roll around or get lost underfoot and then stab you doubly. Now, if the victim has a bunch around the eyes or in the mouth, Seth says a vet visit is in order because there are nooks and crannies that quills can burrow into like in the gums or the eye and left undiscovered that can lead to a lot of pain.
obviously, and infection. And the vet also can sedate your poor dog, which if it were me, I'd be like, hell yeah, give me that sweet, sweet nectar and render me numb. I'm out. Now, this article also did me the favor of busting Flim Flam in that cutting quills does not make them easier to remove. It just wastes time while the tissue gets more inflamed and the quills kind of deepen their grip.
obviously, and infection. And the vet also can sedate your poor dog, which if it were me, I'd be like, hell yeah, give me that sweet, sweet nectar and render me numb. I'm out. Now, this article also did me the favor of busting Flim Flam in that cutting quills does not make them easier to remove. It just wastes time while the tissue gets more inflamed and the quills kind of deepen their grip.
obviously, and infection. And the vet also can sedate your poor dog, which if it were me, I'd be like, hell yeah, give me that sweet, sweet nectar and render me numb. I'm out. Now, this article also did me the favor of busting Flim Flam in that cutting quills does not make them easier to remove. It just wastes time while the tissue gets more inflamed and the quills kind of deepen their grip.
And also, while if you love it, lube it, is good. generally good life advice. It does not apply to this situation. As Seth writes that it just results in little more than a slippery dog and tools that can't get their grip. And yeah, when in doubt, see a vet. Veterinarians, we love you. Your work is hard. You're worth every penny.
And also, while if you love it, lube it, is good. generally good life advice. It does not apply to this situation. As Seth writes that it just results in little more than a slippery dog and tools that can't get their grip. And yeah, when in doubt, see a vet. Veterinarians, we love you. Your work is hard. You're worth every penny.
And also, while if you love it, lube it, is good. generally good life advice. It does not apply to this situation. As Seth writes that it just results in little more than a slippery dog and tools that can't get their grip. And yeah, when in doubt, see a vet. Veterinarians, we love you. Your work is hard. You're worth every penny.
By under the tail, is that their junk necessarily or is that in a different spot?
By under the tail, is that their junk necessarily or is that in a different spot?
By under the tail, is that their junk necessarily or is that in a different spot?
If my hairy daughter, Gremmy, ever got needle blasted, I would be Ubering a medevac. Emily Krieger, Benjamin, Shante, first-time question asker, Charlie Eisman, Lindsay Malone, and Issa wanted to know about their personality. Emily asked, do they have a vibe? Nervous, irritable, curious, chill. Shante said, I feel like porcupines always look so chill and calm.
If my hairy daughter, Gremmy, ever got needle blasted, I would be Ubering a medevac. Emily Krieger, Benjamin, Shante, first-time question asker, Charlie Eisman, Lindsay Malone, and Issa wanted to know about their personality. Emily asked, do they have a vibe? Nervous, irritable, curious, chill. Shante said, I feel like porcupines always look so chill and calm.
If my hairy daughter, Gremmy, ever got needle blasted, I would be Ubering a medevac. Emily Krieger, Benjamin, Shante, first-time question asker, Charlie Eisman, Lindsay Malone, and Issa wanted to know about their personality. Emily asked, do they have a vibe? Nervous, irritable, curious, chill. Shante said, I feel like porcupines always look so chill and calm.
Do the quills mean that most predators leave them alone? Charlie Eisman says, are they as oblivious as they seem? Judgmental, but a good question. What are they like?
Do the quills mean that most predators leave them alone? Charlie Eisman says, are they as oblivious as they seem? Judgmental, but a good question. What are they like?
Do the quills mean that most predators leave them alone? Charlie Eisman says, are they as oblivious as they seem? Judgmental, but a good question. What are they like?
Tim drew a beautiful comparison that will live with me forever.
Tim drew a beautiful comparison that will live with me forever.
Tim drew a beautiful comparison that will live with me forever.
Porcupines. Hell-raiser sloths forever. Now, are they well-liked in nature? Are they lonely for other forest companions? Asked Cinnamon, Wynn Costantini, Issa Brillard, Alexander Kidd, Average Pie, Colin Robata, Mark D, Annalise DeYoung, Pabka34, and Emily. Oh, a bunch of people did ask about social structure. Ewan Munro wanted to know, are they friends with any other woodland creatures?
Porcupines. Hell-raiser sloths forever. Now, are they well-liked in nature? Are they lonely for other forest companions? Asked Cinnamon, Wynn Costantini, Issa Brillard, Alexander Kidd, Average Pie, Colin Robata, Mark D, Annalise DeYoung, Pabka34, and Emily. Oh, a bunch of people did ask about social structure. Ewan Munro wanted to know, are they friends with any other woodland creatures?
Porcupines. Hell-raiser sloths forever. Now, are they well-liked in nature? Are they lonely for other forest companions? Asked Cinnamon, Wynn Costantini, Issa Brillard, Alexander Kidd, Average Pie, Colin Robata, Mark D, Annalise DeYoung, Pabka34, and Emily. Oh, a bunch of people did ask about social structure. Ewan Munro wanted to know, are they friends with any other woodland creatures?
Must I remind us of the 2024 Paris pole vaulter whose victory was thwarted by his own generous nethers, a self-betrayal of Olympic proportions. But Tim says that a porcupine's tail, which is about the size of a mitten, is covered in quills on the top. But on the flip side, it's just a haven of only guard hairs and, in the colder months, some soft, fuzzy fur.
Must I remind us of the 2024 Paris pole vaulter whose victory was thwarted by his own generous nethers, a self-betrayal of Olympic proportions. But Tim says that a porcupine's tail, which is about the size of a mitten, is covered in quills on the top. But on the flip side, it's just a haven of only guard hairs and, in the colder months, some soft, fuzzy fur.
Must I remind us of the 2024 Paris pole vaulter whose victory was thwarted by his own generous nethers, a self-betrayal of Olympic proportions. But Tim says that a porcupine's tail, which is about the size of a mitten, is covered in quills on the top. But on the flip side, it's just a haven of only guard hairs and, in the colder months, some soft, fuzzy fur.
And Yasmin Alu said, I saw a porcupine in an aquarium that was almost always curled up in a corner on its stick. Are they social creatures or was it depressed? They want to know. Should I contact the aquarium? But like, are they solitary creatures?
And Yasmin Alu said, I saw a porcupine in an aquarium that was almost always curled up in a corner on its stick. Are they social creatures or was it depressed? They want to know. Should I contact the aquarium? But like, are they solitary creatures?
And Yasmin Alu said, I saw a porcupine in an aquarium that was almost always curled up in a corner on its stick. Are they social creatures or was it depressed? They want to know. Should I contact the aquarium? But like, are they solitary creatures?
Imagine it's the middle of the night in your bedroom and a steady stream of screaming, sticky children are just parading through being like, I don't know, her energy seems kind of off. You're like, be gone. Off with you. But porcupines, do they party?
Imagine it's the middle of the night in your bedroom and a steady stream of screaming, sticky children are just parading through being like, I don't know, her energy seems kind of off. You're like, be gone. Off with you. But porcupines, do they party?
Imagine it's the middle of the night in your bedroom and a steady stream of screaming, sticky children are just parading through being like, I don't know, her energy seems kind of off. You're like, be gone. Off with you. But porcupines, do they party?
How are they getting these dens? Because some, the Eurasian African, an expert once told me that they burrow. The expert is you, and it was a few minutes ago. But when the arboreal ones, are they able to dig a den or do they find like an old badger haunt or they find like a rock cave?
How are they getting these dens? Because some, the Eurasian African, an expert once told me that they burrow. The expert is you, and it was a few minutes ago. But when the arboreal ones, are they able to dig a den or do they find like an old badger haunt or they find like a rock cave?
How are they getting these dens? Because some, the Eurasian African, an expert once told me that they burrow. The expert is you, and it was a few minutes ago. But when the arboreal ones, are they able to dig a den or do they find like an old badger haunt or they find like a rock cave?
You know, a few people asked about nutrients. Verena Runstadler and Felipe Jimenez wanted to know why they like salt. Felipe said, I heard that porcupines have a surprising craving for salt and will even gnaw on sweaty tools or clothes to get it. Does that have a physiological reason or is it just taste?
You know, a few people asked about nutrients. Verena Runstadler and Felipe Jimenez wanted to know why they like salt. Felipe said, I heard that porcupines have a surprising craving for salt and will even gnaw on sweaty tools or clothes to get it. Does that have a physiological reason or is it just taste?
You know, a few people asked about nutrients. Verena Runstadler and Felipe Jimenez wanted to know why they like salt. Felipe said, I heard that porcupines have a surprising craving for salt and will even gnaw on sweaty tools or clothes to get it. Does that have a physiological reason or is it just taste?
Oh, my God.
Oh, my God.
Oh, my God.
I watched a video of porcupine legend Aldous Rose in a little shed in the woods that he uses to attract porcupines.
I watched a video of porcupine legend Aldous Rose in a little shed in the woods that he uses to attract porcupines.
I watched a video of porcupine legend Aldous Rose in a little shed in the woods that he uses to attract porcupines.
Oh, that's got to be such a find for a porcupine.
Oh, that's got to be such a find for a porcupine.
Oh, that's got to be such a find for a porcupine.
Katie B., Matt Thompson, and Mallory Avery wanted to know about cars. Mallory says, Maybe they chew your brake lines. Is this flim flam? Have you heard of that much?
Katie B., Matt Thompson, and Mallory Avery wanted to know about cars. Mallory says, Maybe they chew your brake lines. Is this flim flam? Have you heard of that much?
Katie B., Matt Thompson, and Mallory Avery wanted to know about cars. Mallory says, Maybe they chew your brake lines. Is this flim flam? Have you heard of that much?
Are quills types of hairs or are they modified scales? I mean, I'm going to get right into it because I'm like, what the fuck is going on?
Are quills types of hairs or are they modified scales? I mean, I'm going to get right into it because I'm like, what the fuck is going on?
Are quills types of hairs or are they modified scales? I mean, I'm going to get right into it because I'm like, what the fuck is going on?
If only we had like a whole episode about roadkill. Look at that. Boy, howdy. We do. It's linked in the show notes. Roadkill ecology. It's a banger. Also, patrons Benjamin, Susan Osborne, Meg Zeroni, and Shuli Rank, first-time question asker, asked about their numbers. Let's talk numbers. Well, you mentioned that cars can be an ultimate predator for them, essentially, on accident.
If only we had like a whole episode about roadkill. Look at that. Boy, howdy. We do. It's linked in the show notes. Roadkill ecology. It's a banger. Also, patrons Benjamin, Susan Osborne, Meg Zeroni, and Shuli Rank, first-time question asker, asked about their numbers. Let's talk numbers. Well, you mentioned that cars can be an ultimate predator for them, essentially, on accident.
If only we had like a whole episode about roadkill. Look at that. Boy, howdy. We do. It's linked in the show notes. Roadkill ecology. It's a banger. Also, patrons Benjamin, Susan Osborne, Meg Zeroni, and Shuli Rank, first-time question asker, asked about their numbers. Let's talk numbers. Well, you mentioned that cars can be an ultimate predator for them, essentially, on accident.
But how are populations doing? You mentioned that indigenous populations are asking where they went. But overall, what do you find in there?
But how are populations doing? You mentioned that indigenous populations are asking where they went. But overall, what do you find in there?
But how are populations doing? You mentioned that indigenous populations are asking where they went. But overall, what do you find in there?
So there are a few theories about porcupine booms and busts. And Tim says that one researcher, Richard Schweitzer's work, shows that one single mountain lion can really reduce porcupine numbers pretty quickly. And another factor is the timber industry.
So there are a few theories about porcupine booms and busts. And Tim says that one researcher, Richard Schweitzer's work, shows that one single mountain lion can really reduce porcupine numbers pretty quickly. And another factor is the timber industry.
So there are a few theories about porcupine booms and busts. And Tim says that one researcher, Richard Schweitzer's work, shows that one single mountain lion can really reduce porcupine numbers pretty quickly. And another factor is the timber industry.
In the Pacific Northwest, in Northern California, there used to be these old-growth Douglas fir redwood stands, but porcupines do not love to eat them. Now, once the lumber industry mowed down all those older trees, What grew in their place were different plant sources that they loved, like a stoner loves fourth meal. So their populations exploded.
In the Pacific Northwest, in Northern California, there used to be these old-growth Douglas fir redwood stands, but porcupines do not love to eat them. Now, once the lumber industry mowed down all those older trees, What grew in their place were different plant sources that they loved, like a stoner loves fourth meal. So their populations exploded.
In the Pacific Northwest, in Northern California, there used to be these old-growth Douglas fir redwood stands, but porcupines do not love to eat them. Now, once the lumber industry mowed down all those older trees, What grew in their place were different plant sources that they loved, like a stoner loves fourth meal. So their populations exploded.
And in the 1970s, researchers predicted the natural decline from that baby porcupine boom, partly because timber companies could say, look, they're doing fine. But that was temporary. Now, speaking of a porcupine menu. So, okay, they stripped the bark off the trees. Are they eating it?
And in the 1970s, researchers predicted the natural decline from that baby porcupine boom, partly because timber companies could say, look, they're doing fine. But that was temporary. Now, speaking of a porcupine menu. So, okay, they stripped the bark off the trees. Are they eating it?
And in the 1970s, researchers predicted the natural decline from that baby porcupine boom, partly because timber companies could say, look, they're doing fine. But that was temporary. Now, speaking of a porcupine menu. So, okay, they stripped the bark off the trees. Are they eating it?
Tim emailed me after this interview to say he wanted to shout out a couple of researchers, Cara Appel and Parisa Belomarek, who found that porcupines have more foresight than me, and they seem to scout out winter habitat during the summer.
Tim emailed me after this interview to say he wanted to shout out a couple of researchers, Cara Appel and Parisa Belomarek, who found that porcupines have more foresight than me, and they seem to scout out winter habitat during the summer.
Tim emailed me after this interview to say he wanted to shout out a couple of researchers, Cara Appel and Parisa Belomarek, who found that porcupines have more foresight than me, and they seem to scout out winter habitat during the summer.
So ahead of times, in the dunes where they worked, in the middle of summer, they would go out to their winter homes in the foredunes to look for the best shelters, and then they'd just go back to those places that were most protected from the wind and the rain the following winter. So they remembered where to go.
So ahead of times, in the dunes where they worked, in the middle of summer, they would go out to their winter homes in the foredunes to look for the best shelters, and then they'd just go back to those places that were most protected from the wind and the rain the following winter. So they remembered where to go.
So ahead of times, in the dunes where they worked, in the middle of summer, they would go out to their winter homes in the foredunes to look for the best shelters, and then they'd just go back to those places that were most protected from the wind and the rain the following winter. So they remembered where to go.
Also, in terms of like moving to a new town for porcupines, Tim mentioned that Oldest Rose hypothesized that they eat each other's poop and they rely on others' gut bacteria to digest the local plants. So Rose postulates that when a porcupine moves to a new area and gets the runs from eating new kind of leaves, the best way to get the local bacteria is by eating another porcupine's poop.
Also, in terms of like moving to a new town for porcupines, Tim mentioned that Oldest Rose hypothesized that they eat each other's poop and they rely on others' gut bacteria to digest the local plants. So Rose postulates that when a porcupine moves to a new area and gets the runs from eating new kind of leaves, the best way to get the local bacteria is by eating another porcupine's poop.
Also, in terms of like moving to a new town for porcupines, Tim mentioned that Oldest Rose hypothesized that they eat each other's poop and they rely on others' gut bacteria to digest the local plants. So Rose postulates that when a porcupine moves to a new area and gets the runs from eating new kind of leaves, the best way to get the local bacteria is by eating another porcupine's poop.
tummy's all better. But yes, porcupine decline is of course impacted by human interest.
tummy's all better. But yes, porcupine decline is of course impacted by human interest.
tummy's all better. But yes, porcupine decline is of course impacted by human interest.
And so were timber industries in conjunction with the government putting like a hit, like a price on their heads, kind of like it involves?
And so were timber industries in conjunction with the government putting like a hit, like a price on their heads, kind of like it involves?
And so were timber industries in conjunction with the government putting like a hit, like a price on their heads, kind of like it involves?
They're like, listen, you be born with quills. You break your bones falling out of a tree.
They're like, listen, you be born with quills. You break your bones falling out of a tree.
They're like, listen, you be born with quills. You break your bones falling out of a tree.
Yeah, rodents can get high from eating the ganja. Maybe not as high as your roommate who simmered it in ghee, but you know, like not not high. Are there populations doing okay? Or should we put save the porcupines like on our to do lists?
Yeah, rodents can get high from eating the ganja. Maybe not as high as your roommate who simmered it in ghee, but you know, like not not high. Are there populations doing okay? Or should we put save the porcupines like on our to do lists?
Yeah, rodents can get high from eating the ganja. Maybe not as high as your roommate who simmered it in ghee, but you know, like not not high. Are there populations doing okay? Or should we put save the porcupines like on our to do lists?
Bonus, they specialize in rodents. What does that have to do with porcupines? Everything. Porcupines are rodents. What? Yep. Big, beautiful, barbed, rat-like creatures, and we love them. Thank you also to Sarah Listener Berman, to listener Sarah Berman, who suggested this ologist singing their praises of their porcupine enthusiasm.
Bonus, they specialize in rodents. What does that have to do with porcupines? Everything. Porcupines are rodents. What? Yep. Big, beautiful, barbed, rat-like creatures, and we love them. Thank you also to Sarah Listener Berman, to listener Sarah Berman, who suggested this ologist singing their praises of their porcupine enthusiasm.
Bonus, they specialize in rodents. What does that have to do with porcupines? Everything. Porcupines are rodents. What? Yep. Big, beautiful, barbed, rat-like creatures, and we love them. Thank you also to Sarah Listener Berman, to listener Sarah Berman, who suggested this ologist singing their praises of their porcupine enthusiasm.
I love that if you won Powerball, you'd be like, I'd be out there looking for porcupines.
I love that if you won Powerball, you'd be like, I'd be out there looking for porcupines.
I love that if you won Powerball, you'd be like, I'd be out there looking for porcupines.
Well, actually, I've been thinking about your life, if you don't mind. And you have to have a vase full of quills somewhere. You must have a collection of quills in a jar, in a pen holder. Where are they? How many do you have?
Well, actually, I've been thinking about your life, if you don't mind. And you have to have a vase full of quills somewhere. You must have a collection of quills in a jar, in a pen holder. Where are they? How many do you have?
Well, actually, I've been thinking about your life, if you don't mind. And you have to have a vase full of quills somewhere. You must have a collection of quills in a jar, in a pen holder. Where are they? How many do you have?
You know, a few people, Daisy Moser, who's up in Alaska, said, I know people up here in Alaska who throw blankets on them to collect the quills for making traditional jewelry. Daisy says it seems better than the alternative way of getting them, which is, I imagine, getting clubbed in the face with a tail. But is that traditionally how indigenous folks are getting them?
You know, a few people, Daisy Moser, who's up in Alaska, said, I know people up here in Alaska who throw blankets on them to collect the quills for making traditional jewelry. Daisy says it seems better than the alternative way of getting them, which is, I imagine, getting clubbed in the face with a tail. But is that traditionally how indigenous folks are getting them?
You know, a few people, Daisy Moser, who's up in Alaska, said, I know people up here in Alaska who throw blankets on them to collect the quills for making traditional jewelry. Daisy says it seems better than the alternative way of getting them, which is, I imagine, getting clubbed in the face with a tail. But is that traditionally how indigenous folks are getting them?
And also a few people, Elle Wink, wanted to know, as a crafter, porcupine pills are useful as tools and part of craft material. What's the best legal way to get them? And Olivia Lester wanted to know how do humans use them like for weaponry or tools or writing? What are the ways that porcupine quills are obtained by humans? And what uses have you seen kind of like throughout history?
And also a few people, Elle Wink, wanted to know, as a crafter, porcupine pills are useful as tools and part of craft material. What's the best legal way to get them? And Olivia Lester wanted to know how do humans use them like for weaponry or tools or writing? What are the ways that porcupine quills are obtained by humans? And what uses have you seen kind of like throughout history?
And also a few people, Elle Wink, wanted to know, as a crafter, porcupine pills are useful as tools and part of craft material. What's the best legal way to get them? And Olivia Lester wanted to know how do humans use them like for weaponry or tools or writing? What are the ways that porcupine quills are obtained by humans? And what uses have you seen kind of like throughout history?
So at the very tip of an erythroxontidae, or North American porcupine's quills, are hundreds upon hundreds of tiny barbs. And for more on those, if you must, you can see the 2012 paper, Microstructured Barbs on the North American Porcupine Quill Enable Easy Tissue Penetration and Difficult Removal. There you go.
So at the very tip of an erythroxontidae, or North American porcupine's quills, are hundreds upon hundreds of tiny barbs. And for more on those, if you must, you can see the 2012 paper, Microstructured Barbs on the North American Porcupine Quill Enable Easy Tissue Penetration and Difficult Removal. There you go.
So at the very tip of an erythroxontidae, or North American porcupine's quills, are hundreds upon hundreds of tiny barbs. And for more on those, if you must, you can see the 2012 paper, Microstructured Barbs on the North American Porcupine Quill Enable Easy Tissue Penetration and Difficult Removal. There you go.
And it doesn't hurt them. the porcupine to eject them.
And it doesn't hurt them. the porcupine to eject them.
And it doesn't hurt them. the porcupine to eject them.
So as a tool for decor for a bunch of uses, I mean, to have that kind of characterized thing, it's got to be valuable. What about flim flam? What's the most annoying misconception about porcupines?
So as a tool for decor for a bunch of uses, I mean, to have that kind of characterized thing, it's got to be valuable. What about flim flam? What's the most annoying misconception about porcupines?
So as a tool for decor for a bunch of uses, I mean, to have that kind of characterized thing, it's got to be valuable. What about flim flam? What's the most annoying misconception about porcupines?
So that settles that. David Villafranco, Alia Myers, Pabka34, Aaron White, Kurt Swanson, Blair C., Kayla Meyer, Charlotte Short, Tinaz, and first-time question askers Darian and Emily's mom, and Donray Oliveira, who bravely admitted to spending most of their life, ahem, for decades, they say, believing that porcupines shot their quills, Sonic the Hedgehog style.
So that settles that. David Villafranco, Alia Myers, Pabka34, Aaron White, Kurt Swanson, Blair C., Kayla Meyer, Charlotte Short, Tinaz, and first-time question askers Darian and Emily's mom, and Donray Oliveira, who bravely admitted to spending most of their life, ahem, for decades, they say, believing that porcupines shot their quills, Sonic the Hedgehog style.
So that settles that. David Villafranco, Alia Myers, Pabka34, Aaron White, Kurt Swanson, Blair C., Kayla Meyer, Charlotte Short, Tinaz, and first-time question askers Darian and Emily's mom, and Donray Oliveira, who bravely admitted to spending most of their life, ahem, for decades, they say, believing that porcupines shot their quills, Sonic the Hedgehog style.
Hearsay, heresy, horse pucky flim flam. Now we know.
Hearsay, heresy, horse pucky flim flam. Now we know.
Hearsay, heresy, horse pucky flim flam. Now we know.
I guess speaking of hardening, keratinize the stuff, Danai Sprouse, Zuleika Pevic, wanted to know, in Danai's words, do they have red teeth? Do they have that orange teeth? Like we just did a beaver episode. Is their enamel that kind of like super hard on one side and then soft on the other?
I guess speaking of hardening, keratinize the stuff, Danai Sprouse, Zuleika Pevic, wanted to know, in Danai's words, do they have red teeth? Do they have that orange teeth? Like we just did a beaver episode. Is their enamel that kind of like super hard on one side and then soft on the other?
I guess speaking of hardening, keratinize the stuff, Danai Sprouse, Zuleika Pevic, wanted to know, in Danai's words, do they have red teeth? Do they have that orange teeth? Like we just did a beaver episode. Is their enamel that kind of like super hard on one side and then soft on the other?
Ah, last listener question. Potato Puffer wanted to know, are their bellies soft? Uh, sure. I mean, I guess compared to the dorsal side.
Ah, last listener question. Potato Puffer wanted to know, are their bellies soft? Uh, sure. I mean, I guess compared to the dorsal side.
Ah, last listener question. Potato Puffer wanted to know, are their bellies soft? Uh, sure. I mean, I guess compared to the dorsal side.
Okay, good. Had to know. Last questions I always ask, and I know we've been talking about quills. We've been talking about leather gloves. Is getting quilled the worst part of the job or is it like meetings? Like are meetings worse than getting quilled?
Okay, good. Had to know. Last questions I always ask, and I know we've been talking about quills. We've been talking about leather gloves. Is getting quilled the worst part of the job or is it like meetings? Like are meetings worse than getting quilled?
Okay, good. Had to know. Last questions I always ask, and I know we've been talking about quills. We've been talking about leather gloves. Is getting quilled the worst part of the job or is it like meetings? Like are meetings worse than getting quilled?
Now, the genus Hystrix, or African porcupines, sometimes called Old World porcupines, no barbs, in case you have a choice of which type of porcupine can shank you. Oof. Okay, you've mentioned other porcupines and you mentioned North American porcupines. I know you study North American ones, but are there... Eurasian porcupines? Are there South American porcupines? Are there African porcupines?
Now, the genus Hystrix, or African porcupines, sometimes called Old World porcupines, no barbs, in case you have a choice of which type of porcupine can shank you. Oof. Okay, you've mentioned other porcupines and you mentioned North American porcupines. I know you study North American ones, but are there... Eurasian porcupines? Are there South American porcupines? Are there African porcupines?
Now, the genus Hystrix, or African porcupines, sometimes called Old World porcupines, no barbs, in case you have a choice of which type of porcupine can shank you. Oof. Okay, you've mentioned other porcupines and you mentioned North American porcupines. I know you study North American ones, but are there... Eurasian porcupines? Are there South American porcupines? Are there African porcupines?
You need some sort of directory of Powerball winners.
You need some sort of directory of Powerball winners.
You need some sort of directory of Powerball winners.
Yeah, you need a benefactor in the Renaissance. You need a pet patron of some kind. I hope someone listens to this and is like, as a billionaire, I've been looking for a pet cause, and it turns out... Let's save the porcupines. Yeah, Teddy's doing a lot of work, too, for the brand image. Teddy's getting paid handsomely in pumpkins and stuff like that, which is good.
Yeah, you need a benefactor in the Renaissance. You need a pet patron of some kind. I hope someone listens to this and is like, as a billionaire, I've been looking for a pet cause, and it turns out... Let's save the porcupines. Yeah, Teddy's doing a lot of work, too, for the brand image. Teddy's getting paid handsomely in pumpkins and stuff like that, which is good.
Yeah, you need a benefactor in the Renaissance. You need a pet patron of some kind. I hope someone listens to this and is like, as a billionaire, I've been looking for a pet cause, and it turns out... Let's save the porcupines. Yeah, Teddy's doing a lot of work, too, for the brand image. Teddy's getting paid handsomely in pumpkins and stuff like that, which is good.
Like as an influencer, he's got like the Lamborghini. What about the best?
Like as an influencer, he's got like the Lamborghini. What about the best?
Like as an influencer, he's got like the Lamborghini. What about the best?
As the porcupine guy, Tim is just a beacon of knowledge, even for not smart questions.
As the porcupine guy, Tim is just a beacon of knowledge, even for not smart questions.
As the porcupine guy, Tim is just a beacon of knowledge, even for not smart questions.
Or like,
Or like,
Or like,
Do they have good eyes, by the way?
Do they have good eyes, by the way?
Do they have good eyes, by the way?
So seeing the landscape through even better than the porcupines.
So seeing the landscape through even better than the porcupines.
So seeing the landscape through even better than the porcupines.
I hope to one day see one in the wild. Who knows? At least I know what to look for. But thank you so much for letting me get to know porcupines. And my wish for you is that someone incredibly wealthy listens to this.
I hope to one day see one in the wild. Who knows? At least I know what to look for. But thank you so much for letting me get to know porcupines. And my wish for you is that someone incredibly wealthy listens to this.
I hope to one day see one in the wild. Who knows? At least I know what to look for. But thank you so much for letting me get to know porcupines. And my wish for you is that someone incredibly wealthy listens to this.
doesn't have an interest in porcupines.
doesn't have an interest in porcupines.
doesn't have an interest in porcupines.
Get real.
Get real.
Get real.
So ask ecological people illogical questions because they are much less prickly than you'd fear. Thank you so, so much to Dr. Bean for such a lively discussion of these creatures who are so huggable, at least in our hearts.
So ask ecological people illogical questions because they are much less prickly than you'd fear. Thank you so, so much to Dr. Bean for such a lively discussion of these creatures who are so huggable, at least in our hearts.
So ask ecological people illogical questions because they are much less prickly than you'd fear. Thank you so, so much to Dr. Bean for such a lively discussion of these creatures who are so huggable, at least in our hearts.
Now, you can find out more about Tim's work and the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society at the links in our show notes and on our website, which is also linked in the show notes. Thank you to everyone supporting and submitting questions at patreon.com slash ologies, which you can join for one hot dollar. Ologies merch is at ologiesmerch.com.
Now, you can find out more about Tim's work and the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society at the links in our show notes and on our website, which is also linked in the show notes. Thank you to everyone supporting and submitting questions at patreon.com slash ologies, which you can join for one hot dollar. Ologies merch is at ologiesmerch.com.
Now, you can find out more about Tim's work and the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society at the links in our show notes and on our website, which is also linked in the show notes. Thank you to everyone supporting and submitting questions at patreon.com slash ologies, which you can join for one hot dollar. Ologies merch is at ologiesmerch.com.
Also, side note, we have a kid-friendly and classroom-safe spinoff show called Smologies, which you can find anywhere you get podcasts. You can look for the new green artwork by Portland-based muralist Bonnie Dutch. You can spread the word on Smologies. We are at Ologies on Instagram and Blue Sky. I'm at Allie Ward. Thank you to Aaron Talbert for adminning the Ologies podcast Facebook group.
Also, side note, we have a kid-friendly and classroom-safe spinoff show called Smologies, which you can find anywhere you get podcasts. You can look for the new green artwork by Portland-based muralist Bonnie Dutch. You can spread the word on Smologies. We are at Ologies on Instagram and Blue Sky. I'm at Allie Ward. Thank you to Aaron Talbert for adminning the Ologies podcast Facebook group.
Also, side note, we have a kid-friendly and classroom-safe spinoff show called Smologies, which you can find anywhere you get podcasts. You can look for the new green artwork by Portland-based muralist Bonnie Dutch. You can spread the word on Smologies. We are at Ologies on Instagram and Blue Sky. I'm at Allie Ward. Thank you to Aaron Talbert for adminning the Ologies podcast Facebook group.
Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts. Kelly R. Dwyer does website. Noelle Dilworth is our lovely scheduling producer whose ceiling collapsed during our recent LA rains. Not a big deal. Ellie's doing great. We're doing great here. Susan Hale is our managing director who keeps the sky from falling. Jake Chafee is our capable and very boopable assistant editor.
Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts. Kelly R. Dwyer does website. Noelle Dilworth is our lovely scheduling producer whose ceiling collapsed during our recent LA rains. Not a big deal. Ellie's doing great. We're doing great here. Susan Hale is our managing director who keeps the sky from falling. Jake Chafee is our capable and very boopable assistant editor.
Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts. Kelly R. Dwyer does website. Noelle Dilworth is our lovely scheduling producer whose ceiling collapsed during our recent LA rains. Not a big deal. Ellie's doing great. We're doing great here. Susan Hale is our managing director who keeps the sky from falling. Jake Chafee is our capable and very boopable assistant editor.
And Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio is our lead editor and a Canadian who is thankfully still friends with us Americans. Nick Thorburn wrote the theme music. And if you stick around to the end of the episode, I tell you a secret. And this week, it's that last week, I read a review that began, thanks, handsome.
And Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio is our lead editor and a Canadian who is thankfully still friends with us Americans. Nick Thorburn wrote the theme music. And if you stick around to the end of the episode, I tell you a secret. And this week, it's that last week, I read a review that began, thanks, handsome.
And Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio is our lead editor and a Canadian who is thankfully still friends with us Americans. Nick Thorburn wrote the theme music. And if you stick around to the end of the episode, I tell you a secret. And this week, it's that last week, I read a review that began, thanks, handsome.
And I just thought this was a reference to me being like your internet father and also just generally, I guess, dapper and appealing. And it made me feel really good. But it turns out that Thanks Handsome was actually in reference to the podcast Handsome, which had just shouted out ologies. So thank you to the handsomes over at Handsome. I'm embarrassed.
And I just thought this was a reference to me being like your internet father and also just generally, I guess, dapper and appealing. And it made me feel really good. But it turns out that Thanks Handsome was actually in reference to the podcast Handsome, which had just shouted out ologies. So thank you to the handsomes over at Handsome. I'm embarrassed.
And I just thought this was a reference to me being like your internet father and also just generally, I guess, dapper and appealing. And it made me feel really good. But it turns out that Thanks Handsome was actually in reference to the podcast Handsome, which had just shouted out ologies. So thank you to the handsomes over at Handsome. I'm embarrassed.
Also, please keep speaking out about our Park Service employees, our federal workers, our scientists, researchers, public servants, all the people who work so passionately and diligently to make the United States I live in and everyone on the globe's present and future's better. Read the news, call Congress people, keep shouting, keep learning, keep telling ologists how much we love them.
Also, please keep speaking out about our Park Service employees, our federal workers, our scientists, researchers, public servants, all the people who work so passionately and diligently to make the United States I live in and everyone on the globe's present and future's better. Read the news, call Congress people, keep shouting, keep learning, keep telling ologists how much we love them.
Also, please keep speaking out about our Park Service employees, our federal workers, our scientists, researchers, public servants, all the people who work so passionately and diligently to make the United States I live in and everyone on the globe's present and future's better. Read the news, call Congress people, keep shouting, keep learning, keep telling ologists how much we love them.
Okay, that word over and out. Till next week. Bye-bye.
Okay, that word over and out. Till next week. Bye-bye.
Okay, that word over and out. Till next week. Bye-bye.
So we got about 30 species of porcupine and the African and North American ones are distantly related. And then we got the South American ones with a big bulbous pink nose and a tail like a monkey. African porcupines can weigh up to 66 pounds or 30 kilos. And they're mostly veggie eaters who dig for roots and bulbs and they eat people's tuber crops or they forage for fruits or bark.
So we got about 30 species of porcupine and the African and North American ones are distantly related. And then we got the South American ones with a big bulbous pink nose and a tail like a monkey. African porcupines can weigh up to 66 pounds or 30 kilos. And they're mostly veggie eaters who dig for roots and bulbs and they eat people's tuber crops or they forage for fruits or bark.
So we got about 30 species of porcupine and the African and North American ones are distantly related. And then we got the South American ones with a big bulbous pink nose and a tail like a monkey. African porcupines can weigh up to 66 pounds or 30 kilos. And they're mostly veggie eaters who dig for roots and bulbs and they eat people's tuber crops or they forage for fruits or bark.
Sometimes an African porcupine will eat a dead body if it finds one, like roadkill. And sometimes they hoard a bunch of bones to chew on in their den if they need minerals. What's more goth? Thousands of spikes striking fear into the hearts of your foes. and gnawing on bones in your underground cave. Not even bats can compete with that. I did not know they went so hard.
Sometimes an African porcupine will eat a dead body if it finds one, like roadkill. And sometimes they hoard a bunch of bones to chew on in their den if they need minerals. What's more goth? Thousands of spikes striking fear into the hearts of your foes. and gnawing on bones in your underground cave. Not even bats can compete with that. I did not know they went so hard.
Sometimes an African porcupine will eat a dead body if it finds one, like roadkill. And sometimes they hoard a bunch of bones to chew on in their den if they need minerals. What's more goth? Thousands of spikes striking fear into the hearts of your foes. and gnawing on bones in your underground cave. Not even bats can compete with that. I did not know they went so hard.
I didn't know there were so many branches of porcupine. Speaking of branches. Do you think that the adaptations needed to be a ground dweller versus a tree dweller? are different in terms of if you're in the ground, more things are going to come and try and eat you. But if you're in the trees, you're going to encounter fewer jackals and stuff.
I didn't know there were so many branches of porcupine. Speaking of branches. Do you think that the adaptations needed to be a ground dweller versus a tree dweller? are different in terms of if you're in the ground, more things are going to come and try and eat you. But if you're in the trees, you're going to encounter fewer jackals and stuff.
I didn't know there were so many branches of porcupine. Speaking of branches. Do you think that the adaptations needed to be a ground dweller versus a tree dweller? are different in terms of if you're in the ground, more things are going to come and try and eat you. But if you're in the trees, you're going to encounter fewer jackals and stuff.
So we're going to get to it in a sec, but first, thank you so much to everyone who sent in questions, audio ones as well. You can submit them at patreon.com slash ologies. Thanks to everyone wearing ologies merch from ologiesmerch.com. And thanks to everyone who leaves reviews for the show, which helps us so much.
So we're going to get to it in a sec, but first, thank you so much to everyone who sent in questions, audio ones as well. You can submit them at patreon.com slash ologies. Thanks to everyone wearing ologies merch from ologiesmerch.com. And thanks to everyone who leaves reviews for the show, which helps us so much.
So we're going to get to it in a sec, but first, thank you so much to everyone who sent in questions, audio ones as well. You can submit them at patreon.com slash ologies. Thanks to everyone wearing ologies merch from ologiesmerch.com. And thanks to everyone who leaves reviews for the show, which helps us so much.
Oh, that's so embarrassing.
Oh, that's so embarrassing.
Oh, that's so embarrassing.
Oh, my poor baby. Do they have like hollow bird bones or they're just not that good at balance?
Oh, my poor baby. Do they have like hollow bird bones or they're just not that good at balance?
Oh, my poor baby. Do they have like hollow bird bones or they're just not that good at balance?
Imagine wearing a headpiece that is like a fan made of barbed spears. And it is your burden in life to bear. Just trying to slink between branches to try to eat a salad made out of trees. You're like weaving through an agility course dressed like Rihanna at the Met Gala. But if diamonds were needles...
Imagine wearing a headpiece that is like a fan made of barbed spears. And it is your burden in life to bear. Just trying to slink between branches to try to eat a salad made out of trees. You're like weaving through an agility course dressed like Rihanna at the Met Gala. But if diamonds were needles...
Imagine wearing a headpiece that is like a fan made of barbed spears. And it is your burden in life to bear. Just trying to slink between branches to try to eat a salad made out of trees. You're like weaving through an agility course dressed like Rihanna at the Met Gala. But if diamonds were needles...
I'm never complaining again, ever. When the quills come out in a predator, I've always wondered, do they just kind of pop out easily like a Lego snapping off? Or is it painful like getting your mustache waxed?
I'm never complaining again, ever. When the quills come out in a predator, I've always wondered, do they just kind of pop out easily like a Lego snapping off? Or is it painful like getting your mustache waxed?
I'm never complaining again, ever. When the quills come out in a predator, I've always wondered, do they just kind of pop out easily like a Lego snapping off? Or is it painful like getting your mustache waxed?
Like this one from NJ Roadrunner, who wrote, if science could embody itself as a warm hug, this show would be it. Also want to shout out Snakes Rule, who left the review. I'm 11 years old and I love this podcast. No, I'm not kidding. No, I do not listen to Smologies. No, I do not listen to the bleeped ones. Yes, I actually understand it. You keep doing you, Allie. Snakes rule.
Like this one from NJ Roadrunner, who wrote, if science could embody itself as a warm hug, this show would be it. Also want to shout out Snakes Rule, who left the review. I'm 11 years old and I love this podcast. No, I'm not kidding. No, I do not listen to Smologies. No, I do not listen to the bleeped ones. Yes, I actually understand it. You keep doing you, Allie. Snakes rule.
Like this one from NJ Roadrunner, who wrote, if science could embody itself as a warm hug, this show would be it. Also want to shout out Snakes Rule, who left the review. I'm 11 years old and I love this podcast. No, I'm not kidding. No, I do not listen to Smologies. No, I do not listen to the bleeped ones. Yes, I actually understand it. You keep doing you, Allie. Snakes rule.
And the porcupines, at least. The dog would like to have a word. Oh, God. How did you get into porcupines? Of all things, I know that you work on a few different animals, kangaroo rats. Yep. But how did your path lead you down this spiny road?
And the porcupines, at least. The dog would like to have a word. Oh, God. How did you get into porcupines? Of all things, I know that you work on a few different animals, kangaroo rats. Yep. But how did your path lead you down this spiny road?
And the porcupines, at least. The dog would like to have a word. Oh, God. How did you get into porcupines? Of all things, I know that you work on a few different animals, kangaroo rats. Yep. But how did your path lead you down this spiny road?
Do you think that there was something in you that made you say it because everyone knows that porcupines are cool?
Do you think that there was something in you that made you say it because everyone knows that porcupines are cool?
Do you think that there was something in you that made you say it because everyone knows that porcupines are cool?
And also the thrill of the unapproachability of them.
And also the thrill of the unapproachability of them.
And also the thrill of the unapproachability of them.
So porcupines are your favorite ecologists' favorite ecology. And I have seen many photos and videos of porcupines willingly because they live in my heart. And some of them have faces like a Japanese cartoon with a tiny nose that's sometimes brown and fuzzy. They got little teensy fidgeting hands. Other porcupines have a nose that looks like an oversized pink marshmallow.
So porcupines are your favorite ecologists' favorite ecology. And I have seen many photos and videos of porcupines willingly because they live in my heart. And some of them have faces like a Japanese cartoon with a tiny nose that's sometimes brown and fuzzy. They got little teensy fidgeting hands. Other porcupines have a nose that looks like an oversized pink marshmallow.
So porcupines are your favorite ecologists' favorite ecology. And I have seen many photos and videos of porcupines willingly because they live in my heart. And some of them have faces like a Japanese cartoon with a tiny nose that's sometimes brown and fuzzy. They got little teensy fidgeting hands. Other porcupines have a nose that looks like an oversized pink marshmallow.
What's going on with their nose? Why so big and cute?
What's going on with their nose? Why so big and cute?
What's going on with their nose? Why so big and cute?
I'm a fan of you and of snakes. Okay, for those who are looking, though, for Kids Safe episodes, just a reminder that we have Smologies. It's available wherever you subscribe to podcasts. It's a spinoff show. You can look for the green cover art. Okay, porcupines. So porcupines, news to me, get their name from the Latin for thorn pig.
I'm a fan of you and of snakes. Okay, for those who are looking, though, for Kids Safe episodes, just a reminder that we have Smologies. It's available wherever you subscribe to podcasts. It's a spinoff show. You can look for the green cover art. Okay, porcupines. So porcupines, news to me, get their name from the Latin for thorn pig.
I'm a fan of you and of snakes. Okay, for those who are looking, though, for Kids Safe episodes, just a reminder that we have Smologies. It's available wherever you subscribe to podcasts. It's a spinoff show. You can look for the green cover art. Okay, porcupines. So porcupines, news to me, get their name from the Latin for thorn pig.
Is it soft? It looks like a big pencil eraser. Yeah. I want to touch it.
Is it soft? It looks like a big pencil eraser. Yeah. I want to touch it.
Is it soft? It looks like a big pencil eraser. Yeah. I want to touch it.
Really? Yeah. I want to touch it. I want to touch the marshmallow nosy. What in your job necessitates getting to, common word, boop, but get to touch the nose of a porcupine? Are they anesthetized and you have to make sure their nose is a certain temperature or is it purely just a perk of the job?
Really? Yeah. I want to touch it. I want to touch the marshmallow nosy. What in your job necessitates getting to, common word, boop, but get to touch the nose of a porcupine? Are they anesthetized and you have to make sure their nose is a certain temperature or is it purely just a perk of the job?
Really? Yeah. I want to touch it. I want to touch the marshmallow nosy. What in your job necessitates getting to, common word, boop, but get to touch the nose of a porcupine? Are they anesthetized and you have to make sure their nose is a certain temperature or is it purely just a perk of the job?
How big are we talking when it comes to porcupines in general?
How big are we talking when it comes to porcupines in general?
How big are we talking when it comes to porcupines in general?
And what about you? Where did you grow up and when did you start wanting to be involved with tracking beavers and learning more about them? I've only seen maybe one or two in my life in Montana splashing from afar, but I know I'm fascinated with them. But when did it start for you?
And what about you? Where did you grow up and when did you start wanting to be involved with tracking beavers and learning more about them? I've only seen maybe one or two in my life in Montana splashing from afar, but I know I'm fascinated with them. But when did it start for you?
And what about you? Where did you grow up and when did you start wanting to be involved with tracking beavers and learning more about them? I've only seen maybe one or two in my life in Montana splashing from afar, but I know I'm fascinated with them. But when did it start for you?
Okay, so Castorology, it's a study indeed. It comes from the root for Castor, which may come from the Greek for he who excels. And there's this big debate about whether this divine Greek mythological twin named Castor, who was worshiped as a healer, got his name from smelly beaver juice used as a medicine for millennia, or if it was the other way around. But we're here, it's now.
Okay, so Castorology, it's a study indeed. It comes from the root for Castor, which may come from the Greek for he who excels. And there's this big debate about whether this divine Greek mythological twin named Castor, who was worshiped as a healer, got his name from smelly beaver juice used as a medicine for millennia, or if it was the other way around. But we're here, it's now.
Okay, so Castorology, it's a study indeed. It comes from the root for Castor, which may come from the Greek for he who excels. And there's this big debate about whether this divine Greek mythological twin named Castor, who was worshiped as a healer, got his name from smelly beaver juice used as a medicine for millennia, or if it was the other way around. But we're here, it's now.
You're talking about them as something that changes the ecosystem and can have a lot of impact on things like literally downstream. And humans, unfortunately, have kind of stepped into that role, not in good ways a lot. But I'm so curious about the beaver instinct. And they can have such huge impacts on environments.
You're talking about them as something that changes the ecosystem and can have a lot of impact on things like literally downstream. And humans, unfortunately, have kind of stepped into that role, not in good ways a lot. But I'm so curious about the beaver instinct. And they can have such huge impacts on environments.
You're talking about them as something that changes the ecosystem and can have a lot of impact on things like literally downstream. And humans, unfortunately, have kind of stepped into that role, not in good ways a lot. But I'm so curious about the beaver instinct. And they can have such huge impacts on environments.
And I don't know how they know how to do that because I couldn't go just build a boat. by myself. I couldn't just go build a house by myself. How do beavers know how to chop down wood, how to stack it? What exactly are they doing with all of this instinct and how is it shaping the environment in their immediate way? What does it do for beavers to make dams and lodges?
And I don't know how they know how to do that because I couldn't go just build a boat. by myself. I couldn't just go build a house by myself. How do beavers know how to chop down wood, how to stack it? What exactly are they doing with all of this instinct and how is it shaping the environment in their immediate way? What does it do for beavers to make dams and lodges?
And I don't know how they know how to do that because I couldn't go just build a boat. by myself. I couldn't just go build a house by myself. How do beavers know how to chop down wood, how to stack it? What exactly are they doing with all of this instinct and how is it shaping the environment in their immediate way? What does it do for beavers to make dams and lodges?
Wait, they don't need to build dams? Like all of them? I guess if you score an apartment next to a park, you don't need to erect a swing set in the front yard.
Wait, they don't need to build dams? Like all of them? I guess if you score an apartment next to a park, you don't need to erect a swing set in the front yard.
Wait, they don't need to build dams? Like all of them? I guess if you score an apartment next to a park, you don't need to erect a swing set in the front yard.
So beavers making dams not only spread the stream water wider out, but deeper into the soils as well and into the groundwater. And for more, you can see Dr. Wohl's 2017 paper in the Journal of Water Resources Research titled, Beaver-Mediated Lateral Hydrologic Connectivity. Fluvial carbon and nutrient flux and aquatic ecosystems metabolism, which maybe you've already read.
So beavers making dams not only spread the stream water wider out, but deeper into the soils as well and into the groundwater. And for more, you can see Dr. Wohl's 2017 paper in the Journal of Water Resources Research titled, Beaver-Mediated Lateral Hydrologic Connectivity. Fluvial carbon and nutrient flux and aquatic ecosystems metabolism, which maybe you've already read.
So beavers making dams not only spread the stream water wider out, but deeper into the soils as well and into the groundwater. And for more, you can see Dr. Wohl's 2017 paper in the Journal of Water Resources Research titled, Beaver-Mediated Lateral Hydrologic Connectivity. Fluvial carbon and nutrient flux and aquatic ecosystems metabolism, which maybe you've already read.
But if not, TLDR is that our beaver friends make complex watery environments and that those areas are a good sink for water when the streams run low and for carbon capture and nutrients for the rest of the ecosystems. Even hydrologists are like dam beavers. That's cool.
But if not, TLDR is that our beaver friends make complex watery environments and that those areas are a good sink for water when the streams run low and for carbon capture and nutrients for the rest of the ecosystems. Even hydrologists are like dam beavers. That's cool.
But if not, TLDR is that our beaver friends make complex watery environments and that those areas are a good sink for water when the streams run low and for carbon capture and nutrients for the rest of the ecosystems. Even hydrologists are like dam beavers. That's cool.
Let's get to what patron Stratford Abbott calls swimming furry chainsaws.
Let's get to what patron Stratford Abbott calls swimming furry chainsaws.
Let's get to what patron Stratford Abbott calls swimming furry chainsaws.
So they're kind of shoring up that river. It spreads out. It gets deeper. And then naturally, willows and other things use that water source to grow into it. They create this new little ecosystem where more things start to thrive there.
So they're kind of shoring up that river. It spreads out. It gets deeper. And then naturally, willows and other things use that water source to grow into it. They create this new little ecosystem where more things start to thrive there.
So they're kind of shoring up that river. It spreads out. It gets deeper. And then naturally, willows and other things use that water source to grow into it. They create this new little ecosystem where more things start to thrive there.
And let's talk about baby beavers, tooth tools, lodges, dams, the sound of water, the slap of a tail, who eats beaver and why, the best beaver real estate, the plight of the beaver, hats, whiskey, beavers and folklore, in joke books, in your neighborhood and in your dreams forever with naturalist, wildlife ecologist, tracker, and castorologist, Rob Rich.
And let's talk about baby beavers, tooth tools, lodges, dams, the sound of water, the slap of a tail, who eats beaver and why, the best beaver real estate, the plight of the beaver, hats, whiskey, beavers and folklore, in joke books, in your neighborhood and in your dreams forever with naturalist, wildlife ecologist, tracker, and castorologist, Rob Rich.
And let's talk about baby beavers, tooth tools, lodges, dams, the sound of water, the slap of a tail, who eats beaver and why, the best beaver real estate, the plight of the beaver, hats, whiskey, beavers and folklore, in joke books, in your neighborhood and in your dreams forever with naturalist, wildlife ecologist, tracker, and castorologist, Rob Rich.
Well, if they get up and go, if they're like, not as much here, and they get up and go, do they have to build an entirely new dam? Or do they ever find abandoned dams from other beavers? And they're like, this is pretty good.
Well, if they get up and go, if they're like, not as much here, and they get up and go, do they have to build an entirely new dam? Or do they ever find abandoned dams from other beavers? And they're like, this is pretty good.
Well, if they get up and go, if they're like, not as much here, and they get up and go, do they have to build an entirely new dam? Or do they ever find abandoned dams from other beavers? And they're like, this is pretty good.
You know, it always boggles me to hear how fast a spider, like an orb weaver, can spin a web. Kind of the timeline of how different organisms create things, I think it can be really surprising. But when it comes to making a dam, and I know there are really huge ranges probably in sizes, but are they working on it for like a year? Is it a multi-year project?
You know, it always boggles me to hear how fast a spider, like an orb weaver, can spin a web. Kind of the timeline of how different organisms create things, I think it can be really surprising. But when it comes to making a dam, and I know there are really huge ranges probably in sizes, but are they working on it for like a year? Is it a multi-year project?
You know, it always boggles me to hear how fast a spider, like an orb weaver, can spin a web. Kind of the timeline of how different organisms create things, I think it can be really surprising. But when it comes to making a dam, and I know there are really huge ranges probably in sizes, but are they working on it for like a year? Is it a multi-year project?
Or do they say, all right, let's chew some trees down. Let's get this thing done. And it's like pretty fast.
Or do they say, all right, let's chew some trees down. Let's get this thing done. And it's like pretty fast.
Or do they say, all right, let's chew some trees down. Let's get this thing done. And it's like pretty fast.
Not only that, but they tend to work the night shift, and they dig out trails and even canals to float sticks and tree trunks toward the dams. They're making log rides.
Not only that, but they tend to work the night shift, and they dig out trails and even canals to float sticks and tree trunks toward the dams. They're making log rides.
Not only that, but they tend to work the night shift, and they dig out trails and even canals to float sticks and tree trunks toward the dams. They're making log rides.
How are they making those dams? Are they threading different size diameter trunks and sticks? Is it almost like they're weaving it or are they piling it and then kind of plugging in gaps?
How are they making those dams? Are they threading different size diameter trunks and sticks? Is it almost like they're weaving it or are they piling it and then kind of plugging in gaps?
How are they making those dams? Are they threading different size diameter trunks and sticks? Is it almost like they're weaving it or are they piling it and then kind of plugging in gaps?
And with a pair of beavers, are they both working on it typically? Or do they ever get the yearlings in on it? Like, hey, you're going to have to do this eventually. Go grab me some mud.
And with a pair of beavers, are they both working on it typically? Or do they ever get the yearlings in on it? Like, hey, you're going to have to do this eventually. Go grab me some mud.
And with a pair of beavers, are they both working on it typically? Or do they ever get the yearlings in on it? Like, hey, you're going to have to do this eventually. Go grab me some mud.
You know, you mentioned, obviously we're talking baby beavers. Sometimes a wildlife rehabber will have videos of baby beavers and they're very fuzzy and very cute. And I've seen videos of them taking all the towels or toys or items around them and trying to plug up a doorway with them?
You know, you mentioned, obviously we're talking baby beavers. Sometimes a wildlife rehabber will have videos of baby beavers and they're very fuzzy and very cute. And I've seen videos of them taking all the towels or toys or items around them and trying to plug up a doorway with them?
You know, you mentioned, obviously we're talking baby beavers. Sometimes a wildlife rehabber will have videos of baby beavers and they're very fuzzy and very cute. And I've seen videos of them taking all the towels or toys or items around them and trying to plug up a doorway with them?
And I imagine that's got to be instinctual, but do they start looking for stuff to push around even when they're little, little?
And I imagine that's got to be instinctual, but do they start looking for stuff to push around even when they're little, little?
And I imagine that's got to be instinctual, but do they start looking for stuff to push around even when they're little, little?
This reminds me of when my nephew Mason wanted to play this video game. And it was just a video game about working at a diner, making sandwiches and burgers. And we're like, you know, Mason, one day you can do this for as long as you want. And they give you money for it. You're never going to believe it. It's called a job.
This reminds me of when my nephew Mason wanted to play this video game. And it was just a video game about working at a diner, making sandwiches and burgers. And we're like, you know, Mason, one day you can do this for as long as you want. And they give you money for it. You're never going to believe it. It's called a job.
This reminds me of when my nephew Mason wanted to play this video game. And it was just a video game about working at a diner, making sandwiches and burgers. And we're like, you know, Mason, one day you can do this for as long as you want. And they give you money for it. You're never going to believe it. It's called a job.
But yeah, that video I saw, which was uploaded to YouTube in 2022, is titled, Rescue Beaver Makes Christmas Dam In-House. And it features a rescue beaver scooting down a nice hardwood-floored hallway and stacking items, including a flip-flop, a SpongeBob SquarePants plush toy, a small Christmas tree, a rag rug, a teddy bear, and a full roll of red, shiny wrapping paper.
But yeah, that video I saw, which was uploaded to YouTube in 2022, is titled, Rescue Beaver Makes Christmas Dam In-House. And it features a rescue beaver scooting down a nice hardwood-floored hallway and stacking items, including a flip-flop, a SpongeBob SquarePants plush toy, a small Christmas tree, a rag rug, a teddy bear, and a full roll of red, shiny wrapping paper.
But yeah, that video I saw, which was uploaded to YouTube in 2022, is titled, Rescue Beaver Makes Christmas Dam In-House. And it features a rescue beaver scooting down a nice hardwood-floored hallway and stacking items, including a flip-flop, a SpongeBob SquarePants plush toy, a small Christmas tree, a rag rug, a teddy bear, and a full roll of red, shiny wrapping paper.
And castorology, this seems like it's something that's been in the books before. Do beaver people call themselves castorologists?
And castorology, this seems like it's something that's been in the books before. Do beaver people call themselves castorologists?
And castorology, this seems like it's something that's been in the books before. Do beaver people call themselves castorologists?
And at times this beaver pauses thoughtfully, just blinking, touching his tiny hands together, as you might when you have walked into the kitchen, but you've forgotten why. Now, the uploader, Holly Muraco, writes in the video's description that this beaver is being raised by wildlife rehabbers after being orphaned as a newborn. Her parents were killed and their dam and lodge destroyed.
And at times this beaver pauses thoughtfully, just blinking, touching his tiny hands together, as you might when you have walked into the kitchen, but you've forgotten why. Now, the uploader, Holly Muraco, writes in the video's description that this beaver is being raised by wildlife rehabbers after being orphaned as a newborn. Her parents were killed and their dam and lodge destroyed.
And at times this beaver pauses thoughtfully, just blinking, touching his tiny hands together, as you might when you have walked into the kitchen, but you've forgotten why. Now, the uploader, Holly Muraco, writes in the video's description that this beaver is being raised by wildlife rehabbers after being orphaned as a newborn. Her parents were killed and their dam and lodge destroyed.
Beavers are classified as nuisance animals in many U.S. states, Holly writes, and can be killed anytime. Beavers need to spend two years with their human rehabbers and have lots of opportunities to practice instinctive behaviors. This beaver enjoys playing this game inside the house, but lives with the other orphaned beavers outside most of the time.
Beavers are classified as nuisance animals in many U.S. states, Holly writes, and can be killed anytime. Beavers need to spend two years with their human rehabbers and have lots of opportunities to practice instinctive behaviors. This beaver enjoys playing this game inside the house, but lives with the other orphaned beavers outside most of the time.
Beavers are classified as nuisance animals in many U.S. states, Holly writes, and can be killed anytime. Beavers need to spend two years with their human rehabbers and have lots of opportunities to practice instinctive behaviors. This beaver enjoys playing this game inside the house, but lives with the other orphaned beavers outside most of the time.
Now, Holly, who works with the Woodside Wildlife Rescue in Mississippi, writes, this misunderstood and unique species needs lots of love. And I want to reach into this video and I want to pet this big rodent. I want to tell it it's doing a good job of stacking all of those objects together. I want to softly pat its big weird tail because I love it.
Now, Holly, who works with the Woodside Wildlife Rescue in Mississippi, writes, this misunderstood and unique species needs lots of love. And I want to reach into this video and I want to pet this big rodent. I want to tell it it's doing a good job of stacking all of those objects together. I want to softly pat its big weird tail because I love it.
Now, Holly, who works with the Woodside Wildlife Rescue in Mississippi, writes, this misunderstood and unique species needs lots of love. And I want to reach into this video and I want to pet this big rodent. I want to tell it it's doing a good job of stacking all of those objects together. I want to softly pat its big weird tail because I love it.
A question I feel like I have never gotten to ask someone who gets to study and learn about beavers, but what's with their tail? How big is it? Is that all skin or is it hairy? It looks like a big cactus leaf, kind of. What does that feel or look like?
A question I feel like I have never gotten to ask someone who gets to study and learn about beavers, but what's with their tail? How big is it? Is that all skin or is it hairy? It looks like a big cactus leaf, kind of. What does that feel or look like?
A question I feel like I have never gotten to ask someone who gets to study and learn about beavers, but what's with their tail? How big is it? Is that all skin or is it hairy? It looks like a big cactus leaf, kind of. What does that feel or look like?
I never thought of it this once in my life before, but are there bones in the tail? There've got to be. Is it like a dog tail, but just real flat and big?
I never thought of it this once in my life before, but are there bones in the tail? There've got to be. Is it like a dog tail, but just real flat and big?
I never thought of it this once in my life before, but are there bones in the tail? There've got to be. Is it like a dog tail, but just real flat and big?
I never realized that. I would have thought it was kind of like a mat of leather. We have so many questions from listeners that are very excited to have a beaver expert on. Can I ask you some listener questions?
I never realized that. I would have thought it was kind of like a mat of leather. We have so many questions from listeners that are very excited to have a beaver expert on. Can I ask you some listener questions?
I never realized that. I would have thought it was kind of like a mat of leather. We have so many questions from listeners that are very excited to have a beaver expert on. Can I ask you some listener questions?
Okay. They knew you were coming on. We've organized them as best we can. into some categories. I thought this was a great question. Shannon O'Grady, Olivia Lester, Onyx Monolith, Rachel Prestanko, Ash Mickelright, Gemma, Shirley Lozanobo, Addie Capello, and Alexandra Rambeau. They want to know about their teeth. How are they so strong? Alexandra asks, has the strength of their teeth been measured?
Okay. They knew you were coming on. We've organized them as best we can. into some categories. I thought this was a great question. Shannon O'Grady, Olivia Lester, Onyx Monolith, Rachel Prestanko, Ash Mickelright, Gemma, Shirley Lozanobo, Addie Capello, and Alexandra Rambeau. They want to know about their teeth. How are they so strong? Alexandra asks, has the strength of their teeth been measured?
Okay. They knew you were coming on. We've organized them as best we can. into some categories. I thought this was a great question. Shannon O'Grady, Olivia Lester, Onyx Monolith, Rachel Prestanko, Ash Mickelright, Gemma, Shirley Lozanobo, Addie Capello, and Alexandra Rambeau. They want to know about their teeth. How are they so strong? Alexandra asks, has the strength of their teeth been measured?
I love that they have the term beaver believer because I think not all species get a catchy name like that.
I love that they have the term beaver believer because I think not all species get a catchy name like that.
I love that they have the term beaver believer because I think not all species get a catchy name like that.
What are they comparable to? Onyx wanted to know, is it comparable to like tigers and alligators? What kind of jaw and teeth strength are they working with? And we will get to the root of that tooth question in a minute, including why they are the color of a tangerine. But first, we donate to a cause of theologist choosing.
What are they comparable to? Onyx wanted to know, is it comparable to like tigers and alligators? What kind of jaw and teeth strength are they working with? And we will get to the root of that tooth question in a minute, including why they are the color of a tangerine. But first, we donate to a cause of theologist choosing.
What are they comparable to? Onyx wanted to know, is it comparable to like tigers and alligators? What kind of jaw and teeth strength are they working with? And we will get to the root of that tooth question in a minute, including why they are the color of a tangerine. But first, we donate to a cause of theologist choosing.
And this week, the wonderful Rob Rich selected Tracker Certification North America, which aims to create a future where ecological literacy is common, valued, and accessible to all. And they do this by providing education, resources, support, and professional certification for all who aim to improve their skills as wildlife trackers. either recreationally or professionally.
And this week, the wonderful Rob Rich selected Tracker Certification North America, which aims to create a future where ecological literacy is common, valued, and accessible to all. And they do this by providing education, resources, support, and professional certification for all who aim to improve their skills as wildlife trackers. either recreationally or professionally.
And this week, the wonderful Rob Rich selected Tracker Certification North America, which aims to create a future where ecological literacy is common, valued, and accessible to all. And they do this by providing education, resources, support, and professional certification for all who aim to improve their skills as wildlife trackers. either recreationally or professionally.
And they explain that wildlife tracking is a field science, which helps identify and interpret the signs of animal activity and wildlife observations amid a changing world. It also gives people a feeling of a meaningful connection with the landscapes. So that was Tracker Certification North America, with whom Rob works. So thank you to our show sponsors for enabling that donation.
And they explain that wildlife tracking is a field science, which helps identify and interpret the signs of animal activity and wildlife observations amid a changing world. It also gives people a feeling of a meaningful connection with the landscapes. So that was Tracker Certification North America, with whom Rob works. So thank you to our show sponsors for enabling that donation.
And they explain that wildlife tracking is a field science, which helps identify and interpret the signs of animal activity and wildlife observations amid a changing world. It also gives people a feeling of a meaningful connection with the landscapes. So that was Tracker Certification North America, with whom Rob works. So thank you to our show sponsors for enabling that donation.
Okay, and folks submitting questions are patrons of Ologies at patreon.com slash ologies. You can join for a dollar. And we're all eager to get back to the beaver questions. What's with those teeth?
Okay, and folks submitting questions are patrons of Ologies at patreon.com slash ologies. You can join for a dollar. And we're all eager to get back to the beaver questions. What's with those teeth?
Okay, and folks submitting questions are patrons of Ologies at patreon.com slash ologies. You can join for a dollar. And we're all eager to get back to the beaver questions. What's with those teeth?
And where are you right now? Can you set the scene? You're in Montana?
And where are you right now? Can you set the scene? You're in Montana?
And where are you right now? Can you set the scene? You're in Montana?
And for patron Alexander Rambo, hi, hey, who asked, has the strength of their teeth been measured and what are they comparable to? It's about 180 pounds per square inch, which is greater than the 150 or so of a human's, but it's a lot less than the 1,000 pounds per square inch that a Bengal tiger or a grizzly would use to snap your bones. Maybe it's because trees can't run away from beavers.
And for patron Alexander Rambo, hi, hey, who asked, has the strength of their teeth been measured and what are they comparable to? It's about 180 pounds per square inch, which is greater than the 150 or so of a human's, but it's a lot less than the 1,000 pounds per square inch that a Bengal tiger or a grizzly would use to snap your bones. Maybe it's because trees can't run away from beavers.
And for patron Alexander Rambo, hi, hey, who asked, has the strength of their teeth been measured and what are they comparable to? It's about 180 pounds per square inch, which is greater than the 150 or so of a human's, but it's a lot less than the 1,000 pounds per square inch that a Bengal tiger or a grizzly would use to snap your bones. Maybe it's because trees can't run away from beavers.
Oh, hey, it's the lady at the donut store who knows that you like bear claws. Allie Ward, this is ologies. This is beavers. Finally, the beavers are here and ushering them in is an absolutely delightful beaver man who is a field naturalist and a conservationist who does a ton of biological surveys and teaches wildlife tracking and beaver ecology. and he writes about the beaver as well.
Oh, hey, it's the lady at the donut store who knows that you like bear claws. Allie Ward, this is ologies. This is beavers. Finally, the beavers are here and ushering them in is an absolutely delightful beaver man who is a field naturalist and a conservationist who does a ton of biological surveys and teaches wildlife tracking and beaver ecology. and he writes about the beaver as well.
Oh, hey, it's the lady at the donut store who knows that you like bear claws. Allie Ward, this is ologies. This is beavers. Finally, the beavers are here and ushering them in is an absolutely delightful beaver man who is a field naturalist and a conservationist who does a ton of biological surveys and teaches wildlife tracking and beaver ecology. and he writes about the beaver as well.
They can kind of just succumb to their fate being savored bite by bite as slow as they want to. I don't know. I'm neither a tree nor a beaver.
They can kind of just succumb to their fate being savored bite by bite as slow as they want to. I don't know. I'm neither a tree nor a beaver.
They can kind of just succumb to their fate being savored bite by bite as slow as they want to. I don't know. I'm neither a tree nor a beaver.
So our exposed teeth, your exposed teeth, if you're listening to this, have hard enamel on all sides, but touch the back of your teeth with your tongue. So in a beaver, that side is softer. So their teeth are self-sharpening because the harder marmalade-colored enameled front surface of the bottom teeth wears down the soft backside of the uppers.
So our exposed teeth, your exposed teeth, if you're listening to this, have hard enamel on all sides, but touch the back of your teeth with your tongue. So in a beaver, that side is softer. So their teeth are self-sharpening because the harder marmalade-colored enameled front surface of the bottom teeth wears down the soft backside of the uppers.
So our exposed teeth, your exposed teeth, if you're listening to this, have hard enamel on all sides, but touch the back of your teeth with your tongue. So in a beaver, that side is softer. So their teeth are self-sharpening because the harder marmalade-colored enameled front surface of the bottom teeth wears down the soft backside of the uppers.
So you've got yourself a whole set of mouth shivs taking down trees, ready to go. Now, according to the 2018 paper, a mathematical model of beaver incisor tooth morphology, beavers' front teeth, they just keep getting worn down and growing its whole life.
So you've got yourself a whole set of mouth shivs taking down trees, ready to go. Now, according to the 2018 paper, a mathematical model of beaver incisor tooth morphology, beavers' front teeth, they just keep getting worn down and growing its whole life.
So you've got yourself a whole set of mouth shivs taking down trees, ready to go. Now, according to the 2018 paper, a mathematical model of beaver incisor tooth morphology, beavers' front teeth, they just keep getting worn down and growing its whole life.
They grow a total length of about six feet in its life, which I guess when you consider that they are an entire tool chest for building stuff, and they are also your silverware, it's kind of a worthwhile metabolic investment for the beaver. Some folks asked about diet, and I had never thought about this before because, honestly, I just figured they ate fish and frogs and stuff.
They grow a total length of about six feet in its life, which I guess when you consider that they are an entire tool chest for building stuff, and they are also your silverware, it's kind of a worthwhile metabolic investment for the beaver. Some folks asked about diet, and I had never thought about this before because, honestly, I just figured they ate fish and frogs and stuff.
They grow a total length of about six feet in its life, which I guess when you consider that they are an entire tool chest for building stuff, and they are also your silverware, it's kind of a worthwhile metabolic investment for the beaver. Some folks asked about diet, and I had never thought about this before because, honestly, I just figured they ate fish and frogs and stuff.
But Eli, the fish guy, Moe, Prince Nocturnal, Amanda, Key Lime Pie, Shannon O'Grady, Jim, Ziz, Sam and Katie, and Jackie G wanted to know, in Sam and Katie's words, what do they eat? Do they eat any of the bark from the trees they use for their dams? Shannon O'Grady said, do they eat wood? Do they eat fish? And Jackie G says, do beavers really poop sawdust?
But Eli, the fish guy, Moe, Prince Nocturnal, Amanda, Key Lime Pie, Shannon O'Grady, Jim, Ziz, Sam and Katie, and Jackie G wanted to know, in Sam and Katie's words, what do they eat? Do they eat any of the bark from the trees they use for their dams? Shannon O'Grady said, do they eat wood? Do they eat fish? And Jackie G says, do beavers really poop sawdust?
But Eli, the fish guy, Moe, Prince Nocturnal, Amanda, Key Lime Pie, Shannon O'Grady, Jim, Ziz, Sam and Katie, and Jackie G wanted to know, in Sam and Katie's words, what do they eat? Do they eat any of the bark from the trees they use for their dams? Shannon O'Grady said, do they eat wood? Do they eat fish? And Jackie G says, do beavers really poop sawdust?
No idea what a beaver eats, to be honest.
No idea what a beaver eats, to be honest.
No idea what a beaver eats, to be honest.
Oh, so the beavers followed the glaciers down in their evolution to where there was water, the beavers went.
Oh, so the beavers followed the glaciers down in their evolution to where there was water, the beavers went.
Oh, so the beavers followed the glaciers down in their evolution to where there was water, the beavers went.
So yes, they eat trees, people. They eat trees. And for more on the different layers inside the tree, which is the most delicious, you can see our wonderful dendrology episode with J. Casey Clapp of the Completely Arbitrary podcast. We also have a scatology episode, and that is about animal poop. Speaking of, what is a beaver log like? What's coming out of their wood chipper?
So yes, they eat trees, people. They eat trees. And for more on the different layers inside the tree, which is the most delicious, you can see our wonderful dendrology episode with J. Casey Clapp of the Completely Arbitrary podcast. We also have a scatology episode, and that is about animal poop. Speaking of, what is a beaver log like? What's coming out of their wood chipper?
So yes, they eat trees, people. They eat trees. And for more on the different layers inside the tree, which is the most delicious, you can see our wonderful dendrology episode with J. Casey Clapp of the Completely Arbitrary podcast. We also have a scatology episode, and that is about animal poop. Speaking of, what is a beaver log like? What's coming out of their wood chipper?
All we are is dust in the wind. All we are is beaver scat in a pond. Jacob Ellsbury says, I've never seen a beaver before, but I see their chew marks everywhere. Where do they go? Maya wants to know, are they nocturnal or did I make that up? Sidonia wants to know, how can I increase my likelihood of seeing them?
All we are is dust in the wind. All we are is beaver scat in a pond. Jacob Ellsbury says, I've never seen a beaver before, but I see their chew marks everywhere. Where do they go? Maya wants to know, are they nocturnal or did I make that up? Sidonia wants to know, how can I increase my likelihood of seeing them?
All we are is dust in the wind. All we are is beaver scat in a pond. Jacob Ellsbury says, I've never seen a beaver before, but I see their chew marks everywhere. Where do they go? Maya wants to know, are they nocturnal or did I make that up? Sidonia wants to know, how can I increase my likelihood of seeing them?
Oh, okay. So, but get up early. When it comes to them getting up versus sleeping, a lot of folks wanted to ask about their lodges. And I did not know there was a difference really between a lodge and a dam. I don't know why I never thought about that.
Oh, okay. So, but get up early. When it comes to them getting up versus sleeping, a lot of folks wanted to ask about their lodges. And I did not know there was a difference really between a lodge and a dam. I don't know why I never thought about that.
Oh, okay. So, but get up early. When it comes to them getting up versus sleeping, a lot of folks wanted to ask about their lodges. And I did not know there was a difference really between a lodge and a dam. I don't know why I never thought about that.
Megan Walker, Adam Foote, Katie Bauer, Stephanie Rosso, Amanda Lander, Haley Kirby, Jeanetta Soar, Valerie Bertha, first-time quest asker Jean Genoir, all wanted to know what the vibe is in a beaver lodge. What's it like in there? Rebecca King wanted to know, is their lodge really impenetrable by bears? But Ghoul Next Door asked, I was always enchanted by their homes as a kid.
Megan Walker, Adam Foote, Katie Bauer, Stephanie Rosso, Amanda Lander, Haley Kirby, Jeanetta Soar, Valerie Bertha, first-time quest asker Jean Genoir, all wanted to know what the vibe is in a beaver lodge. What's it like in there? Rebecca King wanted to know, is their lodge really impenetrable by bears? But Ghoul Next Door asked, I was always enchanted by their homes as a kid.
Megan Walker, Adam Foote, Katie Bauer, Stephanie Rosso, Amanda Lander, Haley Kirby, Jeanetta Soar, Valerie Bertha, first-time quest asker Jean Genoir, all wanted to know what the vibe is in a beaver lodge. What's it like in there? Rebecca King wanted to know, is their lodge really impenetrable by bears? But Ghoul Next Door asked, I was always enchanted by their homes as a kid.
And I imagine they had beautifully furnished, cozy living rooms down there. But what are those dens like? And is it one big room? Is it a different little kind of nests off of one big space? Other folks wanted to know if they all kind of cohabitate with more than just their family or with other animals. Kind of what's happening in their lodges?
And I imagine they had beautifully furnished, cozy living rooms down there. But what are those dens like? And is it one big room? Is it a different little kind of nests off of one big space? Other folks wanted to know if they all kind of cohabitate with more than just their family or with other animals. Kind of what's happening in their lodges?
And I imagine they had beautifully furnished, cozy living rooms down there. But what are those dens like? And is it one big room? Is it a different little kind of nests off of one big space? Other folks wanted to know if they all kind of cohabitate with more than just their family or with other animals. Kind of what's happening in their lodges?
Okay, so Rob, already established, he's amazing. He sent me a link to Casey McFarland's video of an abandoned beaver dam. His whole YouTube channel is great, but this video is titled Inside a Beaver Lodge and Cross-Section of a Dam, where he's able to peek inside an opening that was previously underwater.
Okay, so Rob, already established, he's amazing. He sent me a link to Casey McFarland's video of an abandoned beaver dam. His whole YouTube channel is great, but this video is titled Inside a Beaver Lodge and Cross-Section of a Dam, where he's able to peek inside an opening that was previously underwater.
Okay, so Rob, already established, he's amazing. He sent me a link to Casey McFarland's video of an abandoned beaver dam. His whole YouTube channel is great, but this video is titled Inside a Beaver Lodge and Cross-Section of a Dam, where he's able to peek inside an opening that was previously underwater.
And you mentioned North America. Where else in the world do beavers live? Are they just a North American species? I feel like I should know this, but I feel like maybe zoos all over the world have beavers, but do they naturally occur in other places?
And you mentioned North America. Where else in the world do beavers live? Are they just a North American species? I feel like I should know this, but I feel like maybe zoos all over the world have beavers, but do they naturally occur in other places?
And you mentioned North America. Where else in the world do beavers live? Are they just a North American species? I feel like I should know this, but I feel like maybe zoos all over the world have beavers, but do they naturally occur in other places?
Casey scoots through some shallow water and into a clearing in this giant 10-foot mound of sticks. And inside, we see what looks like a collapsed barn. There is timber of every diameter and hard-packed mud and almost a ramp that leads to a platform toward the back.
Casey scoots through some shallow water and into a clearing in this giant 10-foot mound of sticks. And inside, we see what looks like a collapsed barn. There is timber of every diameter and hard-packed mud and almost a ramp that leads to a platform toward the back.
Casey scoots through some shallow water and into a clearing in this giant 10-foot mound of sticks. And inside, we see what looks like a collapsed barn. There is timber of every diameter and hard-packed mud and almost a ramp that leads to a platform toward the back.
I gotta say, it's pretty freaking cool to see inside a beaver lodge.
I gotta say, it's pretty freaking cool to see inside a beaver lodge.
I gotta say, it's pretty freaking cool to see inside a beaver lodge.
Do beavers winter in their lodges or somewhere else? Do they hibernate? Joe Dauphiné and Megan Walker wanted to know about ice holes. Joe said that they had a natural history professor who said that beavers smash the ice with their head to create a path for them to swim, and then they come up and breathe during the winter months. Other people say that doesn't happen.
Do beavers winter in their lodges or somewhere else? Do they hibernate? Joe Dauphiné and Megan Walker wanted to know about ice holes. Joe said that they had a natural history professor who said that beavers smash the ice with their head to create a path for them to swim, and then they come up and breathe during the winter months. Other people say that doesn't happen.
Do beavers winter in their lodges or somewhere else? Do they hibernate? Joe Dauphiné and Megan Walker wanted to know about ice holes. Joe said that they had a natural history professor who said that beavers smash the ice with their head to create a path for them to swim, and then they come up and breathe during the winter months. Other people say that doesn't happen.
But yeah, in some winter behavior, how much sleeping versus how much activity?
But yeah, in some winter behavior, how much sleeping versus how much activity?
But yeah, in some winter behavior, how much sleeping versus how much activity?
So when it's so cold that a beaver's habitat is too iced over to even slam their head into, they stay just in their dry above land lodge, but they take that ramp down into the water and the entrance is usually underwater. They swim underneath the ice sheets on the surface of the pond or the lake to get to their aquatic pantry of sticks to eat.
So when it's so cold that a beaver's habitat is too iced over to even slam their head into, they stay just in their dry above land lodge, but they take that ramp down into the water and the entrance is usually underwater. They swim underneath the ice sheets on the surface of the pond or the lake to get to their aquatic pantry of sticks to eat.
So when it's so cold that a beaver's habitat is too iced over to even slam their head into, they stay just in their dry above land lodge, but they take that ramp down into the water and the entrance is usually underwater. They swim underneath the ice sheets on the surface of the pond or the lake to get to their aquatic pantry of sticks to eat.
And then they swim back under the ice to the opening to their lodge. All of that when things look still on the surface. Winter for them means going so hard but looking so low-key.
And then they swim back under the ice to the opening to their lodge. All of that when things look still on the surface. Winter for them means going so hard but looking so low-key.
And then they swim back under the ice to the opening to their lodge. All of that when things look still on the surface. Winter for them means going so hard but looking so low-key.
You know, you mentioned the fur, and I know that their fur has played a huge part, too, in their decline. And Catherine Vela and Gemma wanted to know, what does their fur feel like? Is it wiry or is it coarse? Megan Walker wants to know, how does it not get soaked through?
You know, you mentioned the fur, and I know that their fur has played a huge part, too, in their decline. And Catherine Vela and Gemma wanted to know, what does their fur feel like? Is it wiry or is it coarse? Megan Walker wants to know, how does it not get soaked through?
You know, you mentioned the fur, and I know that their fur has played a huge part, too, in their decline. And Catherine Vela and Gemma wanted to know, what does their fur feel like? Is it wiry or is it coarse? Megan Walker wants to know, how does it not get soaked through?
And first-time question asker Rebecca Morrison asked, what is it about beavers and their fur that made them so popular for trapping and trade? Sam and Katie asked simply... And I imagine with a tremble in their voice, is it soft? And that thickness obviously must keep them nice and dry or at least warm during the winter. Can you tell us a little bit about the fur?
And first-time question asker Rebecca Morrison asked, what is it about beavers and their fur that made them so popular for trapping and trade? Sam and Katie asked simply... And I imagine with a tremble in their voice, is it soft? And that thickness obviously must keep them nice and dry or at least warm during the winter. Can you tell us a little bit about the fur?
And first-time question asker Rebecca Morrison asked, what is it about beavers and their fur that made them so popular for trapping and trade? Sam and Katie asked simply... And I imagine with a tremble in their voice, is it soft? And that thickness obviously must keep them nice and dry or at least warm during the winter. Can you tell us a little bit about the fur?
On your scalp, if you grow hair there, you've got about 150 hairs per square centimeter. Beavers have 150 times that, up to 23,000 hairs per square centimeter. And they never wash it, and it's shiny. And for product, they use an organic finishing oil sourced from their own ass sacks. Obsessed.
On your scalp, if you grow hair there, you've got about 150 hairs per square centimeter. Beavers have 150 times that, up to 23,000 hairs per square centimeter. And they never wash it, and it's shiny. And for product, they use an organic finishing oil sourced from their own ass sacks. Obsessed.
On your scalp, if you grow hair there, you've got about 150 hairs per square centimeter. Beavers have 150 times that, up to 23,000 hairs per square centimeter. And they never wash it, and it's shiny. And for product, they use an organic finishing oil sourced from their own ass sacks. Obsessed.
Well, you mentioned that fatty tail and Naya Squirrel or Nia Squirrel, first time question asker, wanted to know if you've heard what the tail tasted like and if it's true that at one time this is a highly sought after delicacy and some other folks wanted to know beaver meat. This was an audio question from one Dr. Tegan Wall.
Well, you mentioned that fatty tail and Naya Squirrel or Nia Squirrel, first time question asker, wanted to know if you've heard what the tail tasted like and if it's true that at one time this is a highly sought after delicacy and some other folks wanted to know beaver meat. This was an audio question from one Dr. Tegan Wall.
Well, you mentioned that fatty tail and Naya Squirrel or Nia Squirrel, first time question asker, wanted to know if you've heard what the tail tasted like and if it's true that at one time this is a highly sought after delicacy and some other folks wanted to know beaver meat. This was an audio question from one Dr. Tegan Wall.
Do people eat them? I know they're hunted and trapped for fur, but is their meat source something that's actually still sought after?
Do people eat them? I know they're hunted and trapped for fur, but is their meat source something that's actually still sought after?
Do people eat them? I know they're hunted and trapped for fur, but is their meat source something that's actually still sought after?
So in a Harvard University article titled, Damned If They Do, one beaver conservationist and environmental engineer, Jordan Kennedy, explained that the beaver is considered one of the fundamental animals of creation in blackfeet culture.
So in a Harvard University article titled, Damned If They Do, one beaver conservationist and environmental engineer, Jordan Kennedy, explained that the beaver is considered one of the fundamental animals of creation in blackfeet culture.
So in a Harvard University article titled, Damned If They Do, one beaver conservationist and environmental engineer, Jordan Kennedy, explained that the beaver is considered one of the fundamental animals of creation in blackfeet culture.
So when trappers started to expand west into what's now Montana, the blackfeet nations who revere the beaver were not typically willing to help them with their trapping within that territory. And as a result, the animals weren't wiped out the way they were in much of North America.
So when trappers started to expand west into what's now Montana, the blackfeet nations who revere the beaver were not typically willing to help them with their trapping within that territory. And as a result, the animals weren't wiped out the way they were in much of North America.
So when trappers started to expand west into what's now Montana, the blackfeet nations who revere the beaver were not typically willing to help them with their trapping within that territory. And as a result, the animals weren't wiped out the way they were in much of North America.
And resources at this website, blackfeetclimatechange.com, describe ecological projects in homage of the beaver, saying that beaver mimicry is this restoration technique that has been gaining popularity due to its cheap and easy and effective application.
And resources at this website, blackfeetclimatechange.com, describe ecological projects in homage of the beaver, saying that beaver mimicry is this restoration technique that has been gaining popularity due to its cheap and easy and effective application.
And resources at this website, blackfeetclimatechange.com, describe ecological projects in homage of the beaver, saying that beaver mimicry is this restoration technique that has been gaining popularity due to its cheap and easy and effective application.
The fossil record dates back 33 million years with 33 beaver genera. That's not even species. So many beaver options.
The fossil record dates back 33 million years with 33 beaver genera. That's not even species. So many beaver options.
The fossil record dates back 33 million years with 33 beaver genera. That's not even species. So many beaver options.
So there's this pilot project that they're working on exploring the use of beaver mimicry as a restoration and educational activity in the Blackfeet Nation. However, in some places where locals are still at war with the beavers, industriousness and their architecture, trapping is legal. And folks enjoy not just the thick pelts, but the meat too.
So there's this pilot project that they're working on exploring the use of beaver mimicry as a restoration and educational activity in the Blackfeet Nation. However, in some places where locals are still at war with the beavers, industriousness and their architecture, trapping is legal. And folks enjoy not just the thick pelts, but the meat too.
So there's this pilot project that they're working on exploring the use of beaver mimicry as a restoration and educational activity in the Blackfeet Nation. However, in some places where locals are still at war with the beavers, industriousness and their architecture, trapping is legal. And folks enjoy not just the thick pelts, but the meat too.
And I found a 2022 article titled, How to Eat a Beaver. And it describes it similar to elk or bison with a deep woodsy character. And it reads that the meat is clean and sweet smelling, garnet colored and lean with a thick cap of pristine fat under the skin. As for the other eating beaver, that's a whole different episode.
And I found a 2022 article titled, How to Eat a Beaver. And it describes it similar to elk or bison with a deep woodsy character. And it reads that the meat is clean and sweet smelling, garnet colored and lean with a thick cap of pristine fat under the skin. As for the other eating beaver, that's a whole different episode.
And I found a 2022 article titled, How to Eat a Beaver. And it describes it similar to elk or bison with a deep woodsy character. And it reads that the meat is clean and sweet smelling, garnet colored and lean with a thick cap of pristine fat under the skin. As for the other eating beaver, that's a whole different episode.
And we have ones on sexology and gynecology, as well as phallology for anyone feeling left out. Why are there so many beaver innuendos? I'm glad you asked, Mouse Paxton, Pavka34, Lauren Otto, Katie Muray, G. Sharon, Annie G., Hannah Riedel, Rebecca King, Waldron, and Spencer Aldridge. So, we're all wondering, and I looked into this, right?
And we have ones on sexology and gynecology, as well as phallology for anyone feeling left out. Why are there so many beaver innuendos? I'm glad you asked, Mouse Paxton, Pavka34, Lauren Otto, Katie Muray, G. Sharon, Annie G., Hannah Riedel, Rebecca King, Waldron, and Spencer Aldridge. So, we're all wondering, and I looked into this, right?
And we have ones on sexology and gynecology, as well as phallology for anyone feeling left out. Why are there so many beaver innuendos? I'm glad you asked, Mouse Paxton, Pavka34, Lauren Otto, Katie Muray, G. Sharon, Annie G., Hannah Riedel, Rebecca King, Waldron, and Spencer Aldridge. So, we're all wondering, and I looked into this, right?
So, in the 1920s, a fad went around London, and a 1922 Associated Press article bore the headline, English Lord Tells of Game of Beaver, and it contained some thrillingly Bridgerton sentences. I'll read them.
So, in the 1920s, a fad went around London, and a 1922 Associated Press article bore the headline, English Lord Tells of Game of Beaver, and it contained some thrillingly Bridgerton sentences. I'll read them.
So, in the 1920s, a fad went around London, and a 1922 Associated Press article bore the headline, English Lord Tells of Game of Beaver, and it contained some thrillingly Bridgerton sentences. I'll read them.
Lord and Lady Mountbatten, she is one of England's prettiest and richest women, and he is King George's cousin, decided today they would attend the World Series and compare it with London's new outdoor sport, beaver. Beaver, said Lord Mountbatten, is a street game anyone can play. You walk along with a friend. If you spot a chap with a beard, you call out, "'Beaver!' That counts 15 points."
Lord and Lady Mountbatten, she is one of England's prettiest and richest women, and he is King George's cousin, decided today they would attend the World Series and compare it with London's new outdoor sport, beaver. Beaver, said Lord Mountbatten, is a street game anyone can play. You walk along with a friend. If you spot a chap with a beard, you call out, "'Beaver!' That counts 15 points."
Lord and Lady Mountbatten, she is one of England's prettiest and richest women, and he is King George's cousin, decided today they would attend the World Series and compare it with London's new outdoor sport, beaver. Beaver, said Lord Mountbatten, is a street game anyone can play. You walk along with a friend. If you spot a chap with a beard, you call out, "'Beaver!' That counts 15 points."
If it is a white beard, this is a polar beaver and counts 30. You score as in tennis, the winner makes the loser buy the drinks, and it is driving beards right out of London, Lord Mountbatten says.
If it is a white beard, this is a polar beaver and counts 30. You score as in tennis, the winner makes the loser buy the drinks, and it is driving beards right out of London, Lord Mountbatten says.
If it is a white beard, this is a polar beaver and counts 30. You score as in tennis, the winner makes the loser buy the drinks, and it is driving beards right out of London, Lord Mountbatten says.
Now, there was another 1922 article in the Columbia, Missouri Evening Missourian News, and it wrote that the unwhiskered have entered joyfully into the game and try to spot a beaver before their fellows. Okay, great game, got it. But then five years later...
Now, there was another 1922 article in the Columbia, Missouri Evening Missourian News, and it wrote that the unwhiskered have entered joyfully into the game and try to spot a beaver before their fellows. Okay, great game, got it. But then five years later...
Now, there was another 1922 article in the Columbia, Missouri Evening Missourian News, and it wrote that the unwhiskered have entered joyfully into the game and try to spot a beaver before their fellows. Okay, great game, got it. But then five years later...
A 1927 book of poetry titled Immortalia, an anthology of American ballads, sailor songs, cowboy songs, college songs, parodies, limericks, and other humorous verses in doggerel contained a limerick. It read, there once was a lady named Eva who filled up a bath to receive a. She took off her clothes from her head to her toes when a voice at the keyhole yelled, beaver.
A 1927 book of poetry titled Immortalia, an anthology of American ballads, sailor songs, cowboy songs, college songs, parodies, limericks, and other humorous verses in doggerel contained a limerick. It read, there once was a lady named Eva who filled up a bath to receive a. She took off her clothes from her head to her toes when a voice at the keyhole yelled, beaver.
A 1927 book of poetry titled Immortalia, an anthology of American ballads, sailor songs, cowboy songs, college songs, parodies, limericks, and other humorous verses in doggerel contained a limerick. It read, there once was a lady named Eva who filled up a bath to receive a. She took off her clothes from her head to her toes when a voice at the keyhole yelled, beaver.
So this book is still in print and one modern reviewer praised, this is a most fabulous collection of the smut our forefathers actually giggled about in taverns. So there you have it, from beaver to beaver to beaver. Bring that up at dinner or a New Year's party, or if there's a lull in the conversation, or maybe bring it up at Easter.
So this book is still in print and one modern reviewer praised, this is a most fabulous collection of the smut our forefathers actually giggled about in taverns. So there you have it, from beaver to beaver to beaver. Bring that up at dinner or a New Year's party, or if there's a lull in the conversation, or maybe bring it up at Easter.
So this book is still in print and one modern reviewer praised, this is a most fabulous collection of the smut our forefathers actually giggled about in taverns. So there you have it, from beaver to beaver to beaver. Bring that up at dinner or a New Year's party, or if there's a lull in the conversation, or maybe bring it up at Easter.
Since yes, Jen Ringney and Rowan Doyle, the Catholic Church does consider beavers to be fish because they are aquatic. And for more on all of that, to see our wonderful capybara episode because if you're Catholic, those big rodents are also fish. Nothing makes sense. Sometimes I get very mad about it. Onward.
Since yes, Jen Ringney and Rowan Doyle, the Catholic Church does consider beavers to be fish because they are aquatic. And for more on all of that, to see our wonderful capybara episode because if you're Catholic, those big rodents are also fish. Nothing makes sense. Sometimes I get very mad about it. Onward.
Since yes, Jen Ringney and Rowan Doyle, the Catholic Church does consider beavers to be fish because they are aquatic. And for more on all of that, to see our wonderful capybara episode because if you're Catholic, those big rodents are also fish. Nothing makes sense. Sometimes I get very mad about it. Onward.
Aveline is a first-time question asker and says they're from Canada and they've met a trapper who has an annual quota of beavers he must trap and says that without human control, they would essentially wreck our world, the human and water infrastructure.
Aveline is a first-time question asker and says they're from Canada and they've met a trapper who has an annual quota of beavers he must trap and says that without human control, they would essentially wreck our world, the human and water infrastructure.
Aveline is a first-time question asker and says they're from Canada and they've met a trapper who has an annual quota of beavers he must trap and says that without human control, they would essentially wreck our world, the human and water infrastructure.
Other patrons, Rebecca Morrison, Will, Caitlin O'Malley, Mish the Fish, Jay Shea, and Tyler Williams asked about historical trappings and the fur trade causing this steep decline in beaver populations and the sustainability of current beaver trapping. Are we trying to preserve or cull numbers? What's happening?
Other patrons, Rebecca Morrison, Will, Caitlin O'Malley, Mish the Fish, Jay Shea, and Tyler Williams asked about historical trappings and the fur trade causing this steep decline in beaver populations and the sustainability of current beaver trapping. Are we trying to preserve or cull numbers? What's happening?
Other patrons, Rebecca Morrison, Will, Caitlin O'Malley, Mish the Fish, Jay Shea, and Tyler Williams asked about historical trappings and the fur trade causing this steep decline in beaver populations and the sustainability of current beaver trapping. Are we trying to preserve or cull numbers? What's happening?
That is up to 400 million beaver on the continent, down to 100,000. So over a few centuries of colonization, the percentage of beaver population remaining was one quarter of 1%. 99.75% of the beavers had been killed right off.
That is up to 400 million beaver on the continent, down to 100,000. So over a few centuries of colonization, the percentage of beaver population remaining was one quarter of 1%. 99.75% of the beavers had been killed right off.
That is up to 400 million beaver on the continent, down to 100,000. So over a few centuries of colonization, the percentage of beaver population remaining was one quarter of 1%. 99.75% of the beavers had been killed right off.
Do they have more than one litter each year? It seems like just a having two a year, they wouldn't be multiplying that fast, right? Or are they pretty prolific?
Do they have more than one litter each year? It seems like just a having two a year, they wouldn't be multiplying that fast, right? Or are they pretty prolific?
Do they have more than one litter each year? It seems like just a having two a year, they wouldn't be multiplying that fast, right? Or are they pretty prolific?
You mentioned summer, too, and I had a really sweet question asked by a first-time question asker, Sarah Moore, who says that they have been listening to the show for years and have been saving their first question for the beavers episode. And they said, a few years ago, I was camping in Colorado, and I observed through binoculars a group of beavers swimming around and playing with a duck.
You mentioned summer, too, and I had a really sweet question asked by a first-time question asker, Sarah Moore, who says that they have been listening to the show for years and have been saving their first question for the beavers episode. And they said, a few years ago, I was camping in Colorado, and I observed through binoculars a group of beavers swimming around and playing with a duck.
You mentioned summer, too, and I had a really sweet question asked by a first-time question asker, Sarah Moore, who says that they have been listening to the show for years and have been saving their first question for the beavers episode. And they said, a few years ago, I was camping in Colorado, and I observed through binoculars a group of beavers swimming around and playing with a duck.
And they say, I don't know how else to describe it, but they were all swimming around and doing little splashes and twirls and playing. Maybe I'm projecting, Sarah writes, but it looked like they were having so much fun. My question is, am I crazy? Do beavers play? And is it possible they'd ever play with another species?
And they say, I don't know how else to describe it, but they were all swimming around and doing little splashes and twirls and playing. Maybe I'm projecting, Sarah writes, but it looked like they were having so much fun. My question is, am I crazy? Do beavers play? And is it possible they'd ever play with another species?
And they say, I don't know how else to describe it, but they were all swimming around and doing little splashes and twirls and playing. Maybe I'm projecting, Sarah writes, but it looked like they were having so much fun. My question is, am I crazy? Do beavers play? And is it possible they'd ever play with another species?
Christy Sullivan was another listener who says, just a side note, that there's a beaver that lives in the creek that runs through the neighborhood. And they say, we love him. It's a highlight of our walks to see him swimming around with the ducks and geese. I guess maybe they do love ducks and geese.
Christy Sullivan was another listener who says, just a side note, that there's a beaver that lives in the creek that runs through the neighborhood. And they say, we love him. It's a highlight of our walks to see him swimming around with the ducks and geese. I guess maybe they do love ducks and geese.
Christy Sullivan was another listener who says, just a side note, that there's a beaver that lives in the creek that runs through the neighborhood. And they say, we love him. It's a highlight of our walks to see him swimming around with the ducks and geese. I guess maybe they do love ducks and geese.
Huge beavers, bear-sized beavers, and some that dug spiral tunnels. They are gone, but they are never going to be forgotten. Please tell all of your friends.
Huge beavers, bear-sized beavers, and some that dug spiral tunnels. They are gone, but they are never going to be forgotten. Please tell all of your friends.
Huge beavers, bear-sized beavers, and some that dug spiral tunnels. They are gone, but they are never going to be forgotten. Please tell all of your friends.
Go figure. I guess they do play around. Knowing that they do play, that you have seen that. Someone else, a first-time question asker, Fiona Blum, who's been waiting for this topic also, wondered if you had heard of the beaver deceiver devices and are the beavers outsmarting us? It seems like they might be. Can they be strategic like that? And have you heard of these beaver deceiver devices?
Go figure. I guess they do play around. Knowing that they do play, that you have seen that. Someone else, a first-time question asker, Fiona Blum, who's been waiting for this topic also, wondered if you had heard of the beaver deceiver devices and are the beavers outsmarting us? It seems like they might be. Can they be strategic like that? And have you heard of these beaver deceiver devices?
Go figure. I guess they do play around. Knowing that they do play, that you have seen that. Someone else, a first-time question asker, Fiona Blum, who's been waiting for this topic also, wondered if you had heard of the beaver deceiver devices and are the beavers outsmarting us? It seems like they might be. Can they be strategic like that? And have you heard of these beaver deceiver devices?
I have never heard of one.
I have never heard of one.
I have never heard of one.
Okay, so I assumed that a beaver deceiver was some kind of ultrasonic technology that made beavers think that a culvert was haunted. But it turns out that Skip Lyle, a one-time construction worker who later got his master's in wildlife management, inspired by beavers, he invented a kind of fencing system around these big drain pipes for streams.
Okay, so I assumed that a beaver deceiver was some kind of ultrasonic technology that made beavers think that a culvert was haunted. But it turns out that Skip Lyle, a one-time construction worker who later got his master's in wildlife management, inspired by beavers, he invented a kind of fencing system around these big drain pipes for streams.
Okay, so I assumed that a beaver deceiver was some kind of ultrasonic technology that made beavers think that a culvert was haunted. But it turns out that Skip Lyle, a one-time construction worker who later got his master's in wildlife management, inspired by beavers, he invented a kind of fencing system around these big drain pipes for streams.
that prevents the beavers from jamming up the culverts themselves. But it still lets the water flow under the road because beavers, they love a big pipe with water. They love it.
that prevents the beavers from jamming up the culverts themselves. But it still lets the water flow under the road because beavers, they love a big pipe with water. They love it.
that prevents the beavers from jamming up the culverts themselves. But it still lets the water flow under the road because beavers, they love a big pipe with water. They love it.
A lot of people had queries about parachutes. And some people might know this, some people might not. But Jenny Rounds and Andrea Levinson, Nikki Aki, Jen Squirrel Alvarez, Therese, Erin White, all wanted to know. In Andrea's words, I'm begging you to ask about the parachute reintroduction efforts from the 40s and parachuting beavers.
A lot of people had queries about parachutes. And some people might know this, some people might not. But Jenny Rounds and Andrea Levinson, Nikki Aki, Jen Squirrel Alvarez, Therese, Erin White, all wanted to know. In Andrea's words, I'm begging you to ask about the parachute reintroduction efforts from the 40s and parachuting beavers.
A lot of people had queries about parachutes. And some people might know this, some people might not. But Jenny Rounds and Andrea Levinson, Nikki Aki, Jen Squirrel Alvarez, Therese, Erin White, all wanted to know. In Andrea's words, I'm begging you to ask about the parachute reintroduction efforts from the 40s and parachuting beavers.
Was that ever a rabbit hole that you went down in terms of what's going on here?
Was that ever a rabbit hole that you went down in terms of what's going on here?
Was that ever a rabbit hole that you went down in terms of what's going on here?
I cannot imagine a beaver so big. That's unfathomable to me. Not unsurprising, but what about modern day beavers? Let's say the North American ones, or I'm not sure they differ much with Eurasian, but how big are they? If I were to, let's say, just be blessed with the ability to hold a beaver, is it like a sack of potatoes? Are they smaller than we think?
I cannot imagine a beaver so big. That's unfathomable to me. Not unsurprising, but what about modern day beavers? Let's say the North American ones, or I'm not sure they differ much with Eurasian, but how big are they? If I were to, let's say, just be blessed with the ability to hold a beaver, is it like a sack of potatoes? Are they smaller than we think?
I cannot imagine a beaver so big. That's unfathomable to me. Not unsurprising, but what about modern day beavers? Let's say the North American ones, or I'm not sure they differ much with Eurasian, but how big are they? If I were to, let's say, just be blessed with the ability to hold a beaver, is it like a sack of potatoes? Are they smaller than we think?
So like an expensive cafe that suddenly pops up in your neighborhood full of gas station coffee, a beaver can change the ecosystem of an area.
So like an expensive cafe that suddenly pops up in your neighborhood full of gas station coffee, a beaver can change the ecosystem of an area.
So like an expensive cafe that suddenly pops up in your neighborhood full of gas station coffee, a beaver can change the ecosystem of an area.
And many people, Autumn Nikosin, Keegan Newman, Rowan Tree, Aver, Zink, Melissa Dewoskin, Olivia Rempel, Smiley Kylie, Maria Schoener, Juliet, Stratford Abbott, Emily Totaro, Amanda, Abby Lawson, Megan Radcliffe, Issa Party, and Ghoul Next Door wondered about the beaver's role in engineering ecosystems as a keystone species. which is an ecological term for being the main character.
And many people, Autumn Nikosin, Keegan Newman, Rowan Tree, Aver, Zink, Melissa Dewoskin, Olivia Rempel, Smiley Kylie, Maria Schoener, Juliet, Stratford Abbott, Emily Totaro, Amanda, Abby Lawson, Megan Radcliffe, Issa Party, and Ghoul Next Door wondered about the beaver's role in engineering ecosystems as a keystone species. which is an ecological term for being the main character.
And many people, Autumn Nikosin, Keegan Newman, Rowan Tree, Aver, Zink, Melissa Dewoskin, Olivia Rempel, Smiley Kylie, Maria Schoener, Juliet, Stratford Abbott, Emily Totaro, Amanda, Abby Lawson, Megan Radcliffe, Issa Party, and Ghoul Next Door wondered about the beaver's role in engineering ecosystems as a keystone species. which is an ecological term for being the main character.
Child fam and Shannon Strom, in Child's words, they say, are beavers the answer? My husband is a fish biologist and feels that in terms of habitat restoration and protecting rivers and the species that live in them, beavers are the answer. Is this true? And are beavers also just generally the answer because they're great?
Child fam and Shannon Strom, in Child's words, they say, are beavers the answer? My husband is a fish biologist and feels that in terms of habitat restoration and protecting rivers and the species that live in them, beavers are the answer. Is this true? And are beavers also just generally the answer because they're great?
Child fam and Shannon Strom, in Child's words, they say, are beavers the answer? My husband is a fish biologist and feels that in terms of habitat restoration and protecting rivers and the species that live in them, beavers are the answer. Is this true? And are beavers also just generally the answer because they're great?
And Shannon Strom wanted to know, should we think of them as nature's miracles against global warming? Is making sure that beavers are protected also protective for us?
And Shannon Strom wanted to know, should we think of them as nature's miracles against global warming? Is making sure that beavers are protected also protective for us?
And Shannon Strom wanted to know, should we think of them as nature's miracles against global warming? Is making sure that beavers are protected also protective for us?
I can't even get my head around because I see them from so far away if I ever get to see them.
I can't even get my head around because I see them from so far away if I ever get to see them.
I can't even get my head around because I see them from so far away if I ever get to see them.
So 2014, Brangelina gets wed. Gwyneth Paltrow famously consciously uncouples. The first season of True Detective premieres. It was a very big year for tight jeans, Iggy Azalea, and Ebola. But it was also very memorable for the beaver.
So 2014, Brangelina gets wed. Gwyneth Paltrow famously consciously uncouples. The first season of True Detective premieres. It was a very big year for tight jeans, Iggy Azalea, and Ebola. But it was also very memorable for the beaver.
So 2014, Brangelina gets wed. Gwyneth Paltrow famously consciously uncouples. The first season of True Detective premieres. It was a very big year for tight jeans, Iggy Azalea, and Ebola. But it was also very memorable for the beaver.
He's a coordinator for the National Wildlife Federation's Montana Beaver Working Group, and he knows so much about beavers. So he spoke to me one morning from his chilly house in the Swan Valley outside of Missoula, Montana. He was wearing a coat and a hat, and a warm smile. And we just we had the loveliest time chatting beavers as I knew that we would. So we're going to get to it in a moment.
He's a coordinator for the National Wildlife Federation's Montana Beaver Working Group, and he knows so much about beavers. So he spoke to me one morning from his chilly house in the Swan Valley outside of Missoula, Montana. He was wearing a coat and a hat, and a warm smile. And we just we had the loveliest time chatting beavers as I knew that we would. So we're going to get to it in a moment.
He's a coordinator for the National Wildlife Federation's Montana Beaver Working Group, and he knows so much about beavers. So he spoke to me one morning from his chilly house in the Swan Valley outside of Missoula, Montana. He was wearing a coat and a hat, and a warm smile. And we just we had the loveliest time chatting beavers as I knew that we would. So we're going to get to it in a moment.
And how do beavers need more castorologists out there? Zoe Dunham, first-time quest jasker, Lisa Nyhuls, Andy Pepper, and Celia Stanislaw wanted to know, in Zoe's words, how does one get into researching beavers? If someone's interested in beaver ecology, what things they could study or what you do when you're working with tracking organizations?
And how do beavers need more castorologists out there? Zoe Dunham, first-time quest jasker, Lisa Nyhuls, Andy Pepper, and Celia Stanislaw wanted to know, in Zoe's words, how does one get into researching beavers? If someone's interested in beaver ecology, what things they could study or what you do when you're working with tracking organizations?
And how do beavers need more castorologists out there? Zoe Dunham, first-time quest jasker, Lisa Nyhuls, Andy Pepper, and Celia Stanislaw wanted to know, in Zoe's words, how does one get into researching beavers? If someone's interested in beaver ecology, what things they could study or what you do when you're working with tracking organizations?
Is there a part of working with beaver tracking that is either annoying or just the most difficult part?
Is there a part of working with beaver tracking that is either annoying or just the most difficult part?
Is there a part of working with beaver tracking that is either annoying or just the most difficult part?
Yeah. So invasive species, a bunch of weird weeds getting all tangled up in the ecology. And for more on how to eat some of those, the weeds, not the beavers, you can see our foraging ecology episode with Alexis Nelson, aka Black Forager. Or to learn how to basket weave some of those weeds, you can see our recent canistermology episode with James Bamba.
Yeah. So invasive species, a bunch of weird weeds getting all tangled up in the ecology. And for more on how to eat some of those, the weeds, not the beavers, you can see our foraging ecology episode with Alexis Nelson, aka Black Forager. Or to learn how to basket weave some of those weeds, you can see our recent canistermology episode with James Bamba.
Yeah. So invasive species, a bunch of weird weeds getting all tangled up in the ecology. And for more on how to eat some of those, the weeds, not the beavers, you can see our foraging ecology episode with Alexis Nelson, aka Black Forager. Or to learn how to basket weave some of those weeds, you can see our recent canistermology episode with James Bamba.
Now, before I ask about the highlights of Rob's life, one thing is nagging at me and I can't stop thinking about it. Also, when do people say beavers versus beaver?
Now, before I ask about the highlights of Rob's life, one thing is nagging at me and I can't stop thinking about it. Also, when do people say beavers versus beaver?
Now, before I ask about the highlights of Rob's life, one thing is nagging at me and I can't stop thinking about it. Also, when do people say beavers versus beaver?
Okay. I want to make sure I wasn't doing it wrong. But what about your favorite thing about beavers or beaver?
Okay. I want to make sure I wasn't doing it wrong. But what about your favorite thing about beavers or beaver?
Okay. I want to make sure I wasn't doing it wrong. But what about your favorite thing about beavers or beaver?
um thank you so much for just telling us everything you know about beaver and beavers and i already loved them and not just because they're cute i think they're just cool in general so thank you so much for everything you do and for talking to me yes thank you um So ask beaver geniuses deep and shallow questions and may fortune find you in the midst of these critters. They're majestic.
um thank you so much for just telling us everything you know about beaver and beavers and i already loved them and not just because they're cute i think they're just cool in general so thank you so much for everything you do and for talking to me yes thank you um So ask beaver geniuses deep and shallow questions and may fortune find you in the midst of these critters. They're majestic.
um thank you so much for just telling us everything you know about beaver and beavers and i already loved them and not just because they're cute i think they're just cool in general so thank you so much for everything you do and for talking to me yes thank you um So ask beaver geniuses deep and shallow questions and may fortune find you in the midst of these critters. They're majestic.
Thank you again so much to Rob Rich for talking to me. So worth the wait. And to find out more about the tracker certification, North America, you can see the link in the show notes as well as a link to our website at alleyward.com slash ologies slash castorology, which has so many more links to research and other resources that we mentioned in the show.
Thank you again so much to Rob Rich for talking to me. So worth the wait. And to find out more about the tracker certification, North America, you can see the link in the show notes as well as a link to our website at alleyward.com slash ologies slash castorology, which has so many more links to research and other resources that we mentioned in the show.
Thank you again so much to Rob Rich for talking to me. So worth the wait. And to find out more about the tracker certification, North America, you can see the link in the show notes as well as a link to our website at alleyward.com slash ologies slash castorology, which has so many more links to research and other resources that we mentioned in the show.
We are at ologies on Instagram and out blue sky. I'm at alleyward on both. We also have shorter kid-friendly versions of Ologies Classic episodes in case you need G-rated ones. They're available anywhere where you get podcasts. You can just subscribe to Smologies and look for the new green logo. We also linked in the show notes. Ologies merch is available at ologiesmerch.com.
We are at ologies on Instagram and out blue sky. I'm at alleyward on both. We also have shorter kid-friendly versions of Ologies Classic episodes in case you need G-rated ones. They're available anywhere where you get podcasts. You can just subscribe to Smologies and look for the new green logo. We also linked in the show notes. Ologies merch is available at ologiesmerch.com.
We are at ologies on Instagram and out blue sky. I'm at alleyward on both. We also have shorter kid-friendly versions of Ologies Classic episodes in case you need G-rated ones. They're available anywhere where you get podcasts. You can just subscribe to Smologies and look for the new green logo. We also linked in the show notes. Ologies merch is available at ologiesmerch.com.
And to join the Patreon, head to patreon.com slash ologies. Thank you to Aaron Talbert for adminning Theology's podcast Facebook group. Thank you, Aveline Malick, for making our professional transcripts. Kelly R. Dwyer makes the website. Scheduling producer Noelle Dilworth worked for two and a half years to get this one on the books. Susan Hale managing directs the whole show.
And to join the Patreon, head to patreon.com slash ologies. Thank you to Aaron Talbert for adminning Theology's podcast Facebook group. Thank you, Aveline Malick, for making our professional transcripts. Kelly R. Dwyer makes the website. Scheduling producer Noelle Dilworth worked for two and a half years to get this one on the books. Susan Hale managing directs the whole show.
And to join the Patreon, head to patreon.com slash ologies. Thank you to Aaron Talbert for adminning Theology's podcast Facebook group. Thank you, Aveline Malick, for making our professional transcripts. Kelly R. Dwyer makes the website. Scheduling producer Noelle Dilworth worked for two and a half years to get this one on the books. Susan Hale managing directs the whole show.
Jake Chafee edits beautifully and joining him just as busy and chill as a beaver is lead editor Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio. Nick Thorburn wrote the theme music. And if you stick around till after the credits, thank you for listening. Here's a secret that the other people don't know.
Jake Chafee edits beautifully and joining him just as busy and chill as a beaver is lead editor Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio. Nick Thorburn wrote the theme music. And if you stick around till after the credits, thank you for listening. Here's a secret that the other people don't know.
Jake Chafee edits beautifully and joining him just as busy and chill as a beaver is lead editor Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio. Nick Thorburn wrote the theme music. And if you stick around till after the credits, thank you for listening. Here's a secret that the other people don't know.
So in 2017, I was toying with this format for Ologies and I was trying to figure out just what the show would be. And I had a few trusted friends listen to some early drafts of episodes. And one, Dr. Tegan Wall, who was a neuroscientist and a screenwriter,
So in 2017, I was toying with this format for Ologies and I was trying to figure out just what the show would be. And I had a few trusted friends listen to some early drafts of episodes. And one, Dr. Tegan Wall, who was a neuroscientist and a screenwriter,
So in 2017, I was toying with this format for Ologies and I was trying to figure out just what the show would be. And I had a few trusted friends listen to some early drafts of episodes. And one, Dr. Tegan Wall, who was a neuroscientist and a screenwriter,
She took a listen and one suggestion that she still maintains is that the show should have a cold open, that little stinger at the top with an excerpt as like a soundbite sample. And I've never done it until this episode. And so I'm doing it in honor of her. So you can let me know on Patreon if you like it. Teagues, you can just text me about it.
She took a listen and one suggestion that she still maintains is that the show should have a cold open, that little stinger at the top with an excerpt as like a soundbite sample. And I've never done it until this episode. And so I'm doing it in honor of her. So you can let me know on Patreon if you like it. Teagues, you can just text me about it.
She took a listen and one suggestion that she still maintains is that the show should have a cold open, that little stinger at the top with an excerpt as like a soundbite sample. And I've never done it until this episode. And so I'm doing it in honor of her. So you can let me know on Patreon if you like it. Teagues, you can just text me about it.
But meanwhile, I had the best cookies of my life at our friend Aubrey and with a, I think a family recipe, and I'm gonna give it to you now. Don't write it down if you're driving. Wait until after. You can come back later, rewind, find this, then jot it down. Okay, so these are thumbprint cookies with like jam in the center, but the cookie is so soft. There's cream cheese in the dough.
But meanwhile, I had the best cookies of my life at our friend Aubrey and with a, I think a family recipe, and I'm gonna give it to you now. Don't write it down if you're driving. Wait until after. You can come back later, rewind, find this, then jot it down. Okay, so these are thumbprint cookies with like jam in the center, but the cookie is so soft. There's cream cheese in the dough.
But meanwhile, I had the best cookies of my life at our friend Aubrey and with a, I think a family recipe, and I'm gonna give it to you now. Don't write it down if you're driving. Wait until after. You can come back later, rewind, find this, then jot it down. Okay, so these are thumbprint cookies with like jam in the center, but the cookie is so soft. There's cream cheese in the dough.
I ate like 10 of them. Okay. These are cream cheese cookies. Ready? Two cups unsalted butter, eight ounces cream cheese, two cups of sugar, two egg yolks, one teaspoon of vanilla, two teaspoons of salt, five cups of flour. Do the wet stuff. You add the dry stuff. Chill overnight. And then you roll into balls and you indent and you put some jam in the middle. Bake at 400, 8 to 10 minutes.
I ate like 10 of them. Okay. These are cream cheese cookies. Ready? Two cups unsalted butter, eight ounces cream cheese, two cups of sugar, two egg yolks, one teaspoon of vanilla, two teaspoons of salt, five cups of flour. Do the wet stuff. You add the dry stuff. Chill overnight. And then you roll into balls and you indent and you put some jam in the middle. Bake at 400, 8 to 10 minutes.
I ate like 10 of them. Okay. These are cream cheese cookies. Ready? Two cups unsalted butter, eight ounces cream cheese, two cups of sugar, two egg yolks, one teaspoon of vanilla, two teaspoons of salt, five cups of flour. Do the wet stuff. You add the dry stuff. Chill overnight. And then you roll into balls and you indent and you put some jam in the middle. Bake at 400, 8 to 10 minutes.
You know what weighs a pound? Like a big apple or an orange. A baby beaver the size of a piece of fruit. In fact, one rehabber site I went to described them thusly. A healthy kit looks like a large fuzzy softball with a rubber-like tail. They're so tiny. How many are in a litter?
You know what weighs a pound? Like a big apple or an orange. A baby beaver the size of a piece of fruit. In fact, one rehabber site I went to described them thusly. A healthy kit looks like a large fuzzy softball with a rubber-like tail. They're so tiny. How many are in a litter?
You know what weighs a pound? Like a big apple or an orange. A baby beaver the size of a piece of fruit. In fact, one rehabber site I went to described them thusly. A healthy kit looks like a large fuzzy softball with a rubber-like tail. They're so tiny. How many are in a litter?
Honestly, the best cookies I've ever had. Please enjoy. Be safe. Happy holidays. Be kind to beavers. Bye-bye.
Honestly, the best cookies I've ever had. Please enjoy. Be safe. Happy holidays. Be kind to beavers. Bye-bye.
Honestly, the best cookies I've ever had. Please enjoy. Be safe. Happy holidays. Be kind to beavers. Bye-bye.
And they're monogamous? How long do they tend to stick together for?
And they're monogamous? How long do they tend to stick together for?
And they're monogamous? How long do they tend to stick together for?
Beavers. They love love. We love them for it. Although some North American beavers do cheat, I found out. But the Eurasian ones are pretty much totally loyal. But beavers co-parent, which is more than we can say for a lot of bitter couples that I see posting on TikTok.
Beavers. They love love. We love them for it. Although some North American beavers do cheat, I found out. But the Eurasian ones are pretty much totally loyal. But beavers co-parent, which is more than we can say for a lot of bitter couples that I see posting on TikTok.
Beavers. They love love. We love them for it. Although some North American beavers do cheat, I found out. But the Eurasian ones are pretty much totally loyal. But beavers co-parent, which is more than we can say for a lot of bitter couples that I see posting on TikTok.
I'm so glad that you brought up that gland because I'm boggled by it. And I didn't know that castoreum was a product necessarily. Is it really used for things like artificial vanilla and strawberry and raspberry? Is there any known history on how humans realized that these scent mounds and that these secretions from beavers would be delicious additives to things?
I'm so glad that you brought up that gland because I'm boggled by it. And I didn't know that castoreum was a product necessarily. Is it really used for things like artificial vanilla and strawberry and raspberry? Is there any known history on how humans realized that these scent mounds and that these secretions from beavers would be delicious additives to things?
I'm so glad that you brought up that gland because I'm boggled by it. And I didn't know that castoreum was a product necessarily. Is it really used for things like artificial vanilla and strawberry and raspberry? Is there any known history on how humans realized that these scent mounds and that these secretions from beavers would be delicious additives to things?
But first, thank you to all the patrons at patreon.com slash ologies who submitted questions for this. You too can join for as little as a dollar a month to support the show. Thanks for everyone in ologies merch at ologiesmerch.com. And to everyone who reviews the show, which helps us so much, it costs you $0.
But first, thank you to all the patrons at patreon.com slash ologies who submitted questions for this. You too can join for as little as a dollar a month to support the show. Thanks for everyone in ologies merch at ologiesmerch.com. And to everyone who reviews the show, which helps us so much, it costs you $0.
But first, thank you to all the patrons at patreon.com slash ologies who submitted questions for this. You too can join for as little as a dollar a month to support the show. Thanks for everyone in ologies merch at ologiesmerch.com. And to everyone who reviews the show, which helps us so much, it costs you $0.
Okay, so I looked into this and castoreum is again, not in the anal glands, but in these different pouches near there. And yes, both male and female beavers make it. Everyone makes it. Not you, but beavers do. And this unctuous, creamy orange substance has vanilla notes and suggests the smell of an old leather chair and a den full of antique books.
Okay, so I looked into this and castoreum is again, not in the anal glands, but in these different pouches near there. And yes, both male and female beavers make it. Everyone makes it. Not you, but beavers do. And this unctuous, creamy orange substance has vanilla notes and suggests the smell of an old leather chair and a den full of antique books.
Okay, so I looked into this and castoreum is again, not in the anal glands, but in these different pouches near there. And yes, both male and female beavers make it. Everyone makes it. Not you, but beavers do. And this unctuous, creamy orange substance has vanilla notes and suggests the smell of an old leather chair and a den full of antique books.
And I've read that's owing to all the trees that kind of make their way through beaver guts. And you can gently milk castoreum from a beaver, but that is seen as very rude to many beavers. So sadly, most of it comes from trappers who harvest the sack. And they sometimes let that sack dry out and mellow for a few years before grinding it up.
And I've read that's owing to all the trees that kind of make their way through beaver guts. And you can gently milk castoreum from a beaver, but that is seen as very rude to many beavers. So sadly, most of it comes from trappers who harvest the sack. And they sometimes let that sack dry out and mellow for a few years before grinding it up.
And I've read that's owing to all the trees that kind of make their way through beaver guts. And you can gently milk castoreum from a beaver, but that is seen as very rude to many beavers. So sadly, most of it comes from trappers who harvest the sack. And they sometimes let that sack dry out and mellow for a few years before grinding it up.
Now, other than actively seeking it out, you're not likely to find castoreum like hiding in your foods. It's just much cheaper to use actual vanilla or artificial vanilla flavor, a lot easier to harvest. So it's rare to find anything with castoreum on a shelf.
Now, other than actively seeking it out, you're not likely to find castoreum like hiding in your foods. It's just much cheaper to use actual vanilla or artificial vanilla flavor, a lot easier to harvest. So it's rare to find anything with castoreum on a shelf.
Now, other than actively seeking it out, you're not likely to find castoreum like hiding in your foods. It's just much cheaper to use actual vanilla or artificial vanilla flavor, a lot easier to harvest. So it's rare to find anything with castoreum on a shelf.
Although that liquor that Rob mentioned, it sounds extremely German in concept, and its name has umlauts, and it translates to beaver howl, but it's actually Swedish. And my dear friend Simone Jetsch happens to be both Swedish and in Sweden. And so I texted her and her mom at an ungodly time for me, but it was a normal person time for Sweden.
Although that liquor that Rob mentioned, it sounds extremely German in concept, and its name has umlauts, and it translates to beaver howl, but it's actually Swedish. And my dear friend Simone Jetsch happens to be both Swedish and in Sweden. And so I texted her and her mom at an ungodly time for me, but it was a normal person time for Sweden.
Although that liquor that Rob mentioned, it sounds extremely German in concept, and its name has umlauts, and it translates to beaver howl, but it's actually Swedish. And my dear friend Simone Jetsch happens to be both Swedish and in Sweden. And so I texted her and her mom at an ungodly time for me, but it was a normal person time for Sweden.
And I asked if this was like a common beverage and she was like, no, no, I've never heard of that. But there's this place called Tamworth Distillery in the US and they do offer an eau de musk beaver gland perfumed whiskey in case you need to get your hands and your tongues on that. Why would you though?
And I asked if this was like a common beverage and she was like, no, no, I've never heard of that. But there's this place called Tamworth Distillery in the US and they do offer an eau de musk beaver gland perfumed whiskey in case you need to get your hands and your tongues on that. Why would you though?
And I asked if this was like a common beverage and she was like, no, no, I've never heard of that. But there's this place called Tamworth Distillery in the US and they do offer an eau de musk beaver gland perfumed whiskey in case you need to get your hands and your tongues on that. Why would you though?
Well, it's supposed to be tasty, but also for thousands of years it was used to treat gout and fevers and headaches and other ailments. But the 1969 publication Pliny's Pheromonic Abortifacients in the journal Science says that castoreum used as an incense could provide the termination of a pregnancy. according to the Roman naturalist Pliny, who lived in the first century AD.
Well, it's supposed to be tasty, but also for thousands of years it was used to treat gout and fevers and headaches and other ailments. But the 1969 publication Pliny's Pheromonic Abortifacients in the journal Science says that castoreum used as an incense could provide the termination of a pregnancy. according to the Roman naturalist Pliny, who lived in the first century AD.
Well, it's supposed to be tasty, but also for thousands of years it was used to treat gout and fevers and headaches and other ailments. But the 1969 publication Pliny's Pheromonic Abortifacients in the journal Science says that castoreum used as an incense could provide the termination of a pregnancy. according to the Roman naturalist Pliny, who lived in the first century AD.
What else was used back then as family planning? Well, your other options were looking at a viper, holding a raven's egg, stepping over a beaver, Or letting pass into your crotch the fumes from an ass's house. And the paper notes parenthetically donkey stable.
What else was used back then as family planning? Well, your other options were looking at a viper, holding a raven's egg, stepping over a beaver, Or letting pass into your crotch the fumes from an ass's house. And the paper notes parenthetically donkey stable.
What else was used back then as family planning? Well, your other options were looking at a viper, holding a raven's egg, stepping over a beaver, Or letting pass into your crotch the fumes from an ass's house. And the paper notes parenthetically donkey stable.
But thanks to several thousand years of progress medically, one need not dance over a beaver or invite donkey fumes up your tunic because there are pharmaceuticals now. But while here in the US, many states have rolled back access to that health care to pre-castoreum in a lantern times. But anyway, rodent secretions, many uses throughout the years.
But thanks to several thousand years of progress medically, one need not dance over a beaver or invite donkey fumes up your tunic because there are pharmaceuticals now. But while here in the US, many states have rolled back access to that health care to pre-castoreum in a lantern times. But anyway, rodent secretions, many uses throughout the years.
But thanks to several thousand years of progress medically, one need not dance over a beaver or invite donkey fumes up your tunic because there are pharmaceuticals now. But while here in the US, many states have rolled back access to that health care to pre-castoreum in a lantern times. But anyway, rodent secretions, many uses throughout the years.
I read them all, such as this week's from Maximilie, who wrote, I have been a dedicated listener since the inception of this podcast in 2017. Max, seven and a half years. You're a real one. I like you. Thank you for that. Thank you to everyone who leaves reviews. And thank you also to sponsors of the show who make it possible to donate to a cause selected by the guest each week. So one sec.
I read them all, such as this week's from Maximilie, who wrote, I have been a dedicated listener since the inception of this podcast in 2017. Max, seven and a half years. You're a real one. I like you. Thank you for that. Thank you to everyone who leaves reviews. And thank you also to sponsors of the show who make it possible to donate to a cause selected by the guest each week. So one sec.
I read them all, such as this week's from Maximilie, who wrote, I have been a dedicated listener since the inception of this podcast in 2017. Max, seven and a half years. You're a real one. I like you. Thank you for that. Thank you to everyone who leaves reviews. And thank you also to sponsors of the show who make it possible to donate to a cause selected by the guest each week. So one sec.
But no, your birthday cake flavored lip gloss does not have beaver butt in it. You're good.
But no, your birthday cake flavored lip gloss does not have beaver butt in it. You're good.
But no, your birthday cake flavored lip gloss does not have beaver butt in it. You're good.
And you can smell it when you're out looking for beavers or if you're out in the fields. Is it something like the breeze shifts and then suddenly you can smell a mound?
And you can smell it when you're out looking for beavers or if you're out in the fields. Is it something like the breeze shifts and then suddenly you can smell a mound?
And you can smell it when you're out looking for beavers or if you're out in the fields. Is it something like the breeze shifts and then suddenly you can smell a mound?
Do you have any idea how far away you are from a beaver right now? Like where you live in the Swan Valley, do you know when I cross this bridge into town, there's a dam or a lodge there? Are you pretty aware of where they are in your local environment?
Do you have any idea how far away you are from a beaver right now? Like where you live in the Swan Valley, do you know when I cross this bridge into town, there's a dam or a lodge there? Are you pretty aware of where they are in your local environment?
Do you have any idea how far away you are from a beaver right now? Like where you live in the Swan Valley, do you know when I cross this bridge into town, there's a dam or a lodge there? Are you pretty aware of where they are in your local environment?
Oh, hello. 2024 Allie here. This is an encore while I am napping in a human-sized dog bed in front of a fireplace for the holidays. What a way to start 2025, folks. I wanted you to have this episode at the beginning of January. This is a reminder of scientifically what actually makes us happy and keeps us happy. We all need this one. Please enjoy. I love it. I'm happy to have you listen.
Oh, hello. 2024 Allie here. This is an encore while I am napping in a human-sized dog bed in front of a fireplace for the holidays. What a way to start 2025, folks. I wanted you to have this episode at the beginning of January. This is a reminder of scientifically what actually makes us happy and keeps us happy. We all need this one. Please enjoy. I love it. I'm happy to have you listen.
Oh, hello. 2024 Allie here. This is an encore while I am napping in a human-sized dog bed in front of a fireplace for the holidays. What a way to start 2025, folks. I wanted you to have this episode at the beginning of January. This is a reminder of scientifically what actually makes us happy and keeps us happy. We all need this one. Please enjoy. I love it. I'm happy to have you listen.
Do you feel like your friends come to you for more pep talks or fewer because they just look at your published work instead?
Do you feel like your friends come to you for more pep talks or fewer because they just look at your published work instead?
Do you feel like your friends come to you for more pep talks or fewer because they just look at your published work instead?
Shit, am I not supposed to talk about podcast episodes with my friends? Because I've told a lot of people about wildfires and how lizards have two dogs. Let's change the subject. Well, let's get into some of those factors, because I know that you you rattled them off. And it's a lot of things that we we feel like we know, but we don't necessarily know why or the mechanisms of how that works.
Shit, am I not supposed to talk about podcast episodes with my friends? Because I've told a lot of people about wildfires and how lizards have two dogs. Let's change the subject. Well, let's get into some of those factors, because I know that you you rattled them off. And it's a lot of things that we we feel like we know, but we don't necessarily know why or the mechanisms of how that works.
Shit, am I not supposed to talk about podcast episodes with my friends? Because I've told a lot of people about wildfires and how lizards have two dogs. Let's change the subject. Well, let's get into some of those factors, because I know that you you rattled them off. And it's a lot of things that we we feel like we know, but we don't necessarily know why or the mechanisms of how that works.
You know, exercise, practicing gratitude. Can you run me down those things? And in a nutshell, tell me why they why do they work?
You know, exercise, practicing gratitude. Can you run me down those things? And in a nutshell, tell me why they why do they work?
You know, exercise, practicing gratitude. Can you run me down those things? And in a nutshell, tell me why they why do they work?
So for more on a daily practice of looking for things that aren't the fucking worst, I linked the Awesomeology episode in the show notes. Also, learning this next term killed me. I'm dead. I'm a fungus now.
So for more on a daily practice of looking for things that aren't the fucking worst, I linked the Awesomeology episode in the show notes. Also, learning this next term killed me. I'm dead. I'm a fungus now.
So for more on a daily practice of looking for things that aren't the fucking worst, I linked the Awesomeology episode in the show notes. Also, learning this next term killed me. I'm dead. I'm a fungus now.
They keep me from crying on days that are challenging. Also, heads up, if you prefer podcasts without swearing, we have a slew of them. They're called Smologies and you can subscribe to Smologies now. Wherever you get podcasts, they're in their own separate feed in case you need to listen while you carpool to school. Okay. Thank you to all the patrons who left questions for this ologist.
They keep me from crying on days that are challenging. Also, heads up, if you prefer podcasts without swearing, we have a slew of them. They're called Smologies and you can subscribe to Smologies now. Wherever you get podcasts, they're in their own separate feed in case you need to listen while you carpool to school. Okay. Thank you to all the patrons who left questions for this ologist.
They keep me from crying on days that are challenging. Also, heads up, if you prefer podcasts without swearing, we have a slew of them. They're called Smologies and you can subscribe to Smologies now. Wherever you get podcasts, they're in their own separate feed in case you need to listen while you carpool to school. Okay. Thank you to all the patrons who left questions for this ologist.
So connecting with people, talking face to face is better for us than just text. The phone works too. FaceTime is even better than the phone. Also helping others when you can, looking for lovely, shiny things amid the compost pile that can feel like life. Also sleep and exercise. It can be immediate or like exercise.
So connecting with people, talking face to face is better for us than just text. The phone works too. FaceTime is even better than the phone. Also helping others when you can, looking for lovely, shiny things amid the compost pile that can feel like life. Also sleep and exercise. It can be immediate or like exercise.
So connecting with people, talking face to face is better for us than just text. The phone works too. FaceTime is even better than the phone. Also helping others when you can, looking for lovely, shiny things amid the compost pile that can feel like life. Also sleep and exercise. It can be immediate or like exercise.
It can be a few weeks before these habits really take root and you start to feel better. So don't give up. Give it a few weeks, especially since it's free. Are you feeling lazy and annoyed? Don't worry. A lot of us feel that way when we start doing something that will keep us alive and happy. So I asked Dr. Santos for us, why am I like this?
It can be a few weeks before these habits really take root and you start to feel better. So don't give up. Give it a few weeks, especially since it's free. Are you feeling lazy and annoyed? Don't worry. A lot of us feel that way when we start doing something that will keep us alive and happy. So I asked Dr. Santos for us, why am I like this?
It can be a few weeks before these habits really take root and you start to feel better. So don't give up. Give it a few weeks, especially since it's free. Are you feeling lazy and annoyed? Don't worry. A lot of us feel that way when we start doing something that will keep us alive and happy. So I asked Dr. Santos for us, why am I like this?
Why do you think from some sort of evolutionary standpoint, when we're bummed out, it's harder to do the things that would make us less bummed out?
Why do you think from some sort of evolutionary standpoint, when we're bummed out, it's harder to do the things that would make us less bummed out?
Why do you think from some sort of evolutionary standpoint, when we're bummed out, it's harder to do the things that would make us less bummed out?
You too can join that club. Costs 25 cents an episode at patreon.com. Okay, so let's get into it. Eudemonology. Will I say it right even one time this episode? Stick around to find out. So this is the science of happiness. And it's been on the ology books a long time. It comes from eudaimon, which is Greek for a benevolent demon or a good spirit.
You too can join that club. Costs 25 cents an episode at patreon.com. Okay, so let's get into it. Eudemonology. Will I say it right even one time this episode? Stick around to find out. So this is the science of happiness. And it's been on the ology books a long time. It comes from eudaimon, which is Greek for a benevolent demon or a good spirit.
You too can join that club. Costs 25 cents an episode at patreon.com. Okay, so let's get into it. Eudemonology. Will I say it right even one time this episode? Stick around to find out. So this is the science of happiness. And it's been on the ology books a long time. It comes from eudaimon, which is Greek for a benevolent demon or a good spirit.
How do we hijack that? Like, how do we trick ourselves into doing the thing that we don't to do, but we like doing and is good for us.
How do we hijack that? Like, how do we trick ourselves into doing the thing that we don't to do, but we like doing and is good for us.
How do we hijack that? Like, how do we trick ourselves into doing the thing that we don't to do, but we like doing and is good for us.
So when you pick the salad and stop pretending that Diet Coke is water and you go for the slowest, sweatiest shuffle around the block, but you do it, take a minute and absolutely relish how wonderful and brave and heroic your efforts were and how you feel. We deserve this.
So when you pick the salad and stop pretending that Diet Coke is water and you go for the slowest, sweatiest shuffle around the block, but you do it, take a minute and absolutely relish how wonderful and brave and heroic your efforts were and how you feel. We deserve this.
So when you pick the salad and stop pretending that Diet Coke is water and you go for the slowest, sweatiest shuffle around the block, but you do it, take a minute and absolutely relish how wonderful and brave and heroic your efforts were and how you feel. We deserve this.
What about like our self-image? How much does that play into our happiness and how much does monitoring our likes and our social media and, you know, looking at pictures of our face through a distorted camera lens, how much is that affecting our happiness and how we see our lives?
What about like our self-image? How much does that play into our happiness and how much does monitoring our likes and our social media and, you know, looking at pictures of our face through a distorted camera lens, how much is that affecting our happiness and how we see our lives?
What about like our self-image? How much does that play into our happiness and how much does monitoring our likes and our social media and, you know, looking at pictures of our face through a distorted camera lens, how much is that affecting our happiness and how we see our lives?
And it was a term used by 19th century humanistic philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer. And he called eudaimonology the art of ordering our lives so as to obtain the greatest possible amount of pleasure and success. But we're talking about the science of this art.
And it was a term used by 19th century humanistic philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer. And he called eudaimonology the art of ordering our lives so as to obtain the greatest possible amount of pleasure and success. But we're talking about the science of this art.
And it was a term used by 19th century humanistic philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer. And he called eudaimonology the art of ordering our lives so as to obtain the greatest possible amount of pleasure and success. But we're talking about the science of this art.
So Nancy Kerrigan displayed a famously sour face receiving the silver in 1994. And then in 1995, a study was published in the Journal of Personal and Social Psychology titled, quote, When Less is More, Counterfactual Thinking and Satisfaction Among Olympic Medalists. Counterfactual thinking... That is the sinking, gnawing feeling of what could have been. Oh, wow. I fudged it up.
So Nancy Kerrigan displayed a famously sour face receiving the silver in 1994. And then in 1995, a study was published in the Journal of Personal and Social Psychology titled, quote, When Less is More, Counterfactual Thinking and Satisfaction Among Olympic Medalists. Counterfactual thinking... That is the sinking, gnawing feeling of what could have been. Oh, wow. I fudged it up.
So Nancy Kerrigan displayed a famously sour face receiving the silver in 1994. And then in 1995, a study was published in the Journal of Personal and Social Psychology titled, quote, When Less is More, Counterfactual Thinking and Satisfaction Among Olympic Medalists. Counterfactual thinking... That is the sinking, gnawing feeling of what could have been. Oh, wow. I fudged it up.
So one researcher, Dr. Andrea Lewengrath, a University of Iowa marketing assistant professor, did follow-up studies on medalists to confirm that first study and recently said in an interview that you don't have to be the second best out of 8 billion.
So one researcher, Dr. Andrea Lewengrath, a University of Iowa marketing assistant professor, did follow-up studies on medalists to confirm that first study and recently said in an interview that you don't have to be the second best out of 8 billion.
So one researcher, Dr. Andrea Lewengrath, a University of Iowa marketing assistant professor, did follow-up studies on medalists to confirm that first study and recently said in an interview that you don't have to be the second best out of 8 billion.
There are always going to be people who we can compare ourselves to that are better, faster, smarter, or whatever, and that can make us feel relatively bad. So what is the lesson here? Think twice before you get a no regrets tattoo and maybe consider a counter your counterfactuals tattoo instead. And once the sting wears off, celebrate your silvers. You did it.
There are always going to be people who we can compare ourselves to that are better, faster, smarter, or whatever, and that can make us feel relatively bad. So what is the lesson here? Think twice before you get a no regrets tattoo and maybe consider a counter your counterfactuals tattoo instead. And once the sting wears off, celebrate your silvers. You did it.
There are always going to be people who we can compare ourselves to that are better, faster, smarter, or whatever, and that can make us feel relatively bad. So what is the lesson here? Think twice before you get a no regrets tattoo and maybe consider a counter your counterfactuals tattoo instead. And once the sting wears off, celebrate your silvers. You did it.
So how to shed the very comfortable, crusty shell of dissatisfaction and anxiety with some good steps that have been proven by research people to make your brain less of a miserable bummer. So press pause on your sad inner goblins and open your ears to hear about wanting versus craving, being happy in your life.
So how to shed the very comfortable, crusty shell of dissatisfaction and anxiety with some good steps that have been proven by research people to make your brain less of a miserable bummer. So press pause on your sad inner goblins and open your ears to hear about wanting versus craving, being happy in your life.
So how to shed the very comfortable, crusty shell of dissatisfaction and anxiety with some good steps that have been proven by research people to make your brain less of a miserable bummer. So press pause on your sad inner goblins and open your ears to hear about wanting versus craving, being happy in your life.
And what about chemicals? Where are just the chemical hands that we were dealt? When do those have the reins on the amount of happiness we feel?
And what about chemicals? Where are just the chemical hands that we were dealt? When do those have the reins on the amount of happiness we feel?
And what about chemicals? Where are just the chemical hands that we were dealt? When do those have the reins on the amount of happiness we feel?
Yeah. Do you ever have students who either come to you or who you hear about who aren't quite sure if it's time for medical intervention or is it time for just trying to hack their habits? How do we as individuals make that call?
Yeah. Do you ever have students who either come to you or who you hear about who aren't quite sure if it's time for medical intervention or is it time for just trying to hack their habits? How do we as individuals make that call?
Yeah. Do you ever have students who either come to you or who you hear about who aren't quite sure if it's time for medical intervention or is it time for just trying to hack their habits? How do we as individuals make that call?
being happy with your life, how happiness is even measured, lottery winner statistics, the wealth of free time, the power of a walk, wheelbarrows of distractions, when does positivity become toxic, how to get around the ickiness of the word gratitude, and some practical tips to enjoy life on planet Earth before you're a pile of forgotten bones.
being happy with your life, how happiness is even measured, lottery winner statistics, the wealth of free time, the power of a walk, wheelbarrows of distractions, when does positivity become toxic, how to get around the ickiness of the word gratitude, and some practical tips to enjoy life on planet Earth before you're a pile of forgotten bones.
being happy with your life, how happiness is even measured, lottery winner statistics, the wealth of free time, the power of a walk, wheelbarrows of distractions, when does positivity become toxic, how to get around the ickiness of the word gratitude, and some practical tips to enjoy life on planet Earth before you're a pile of forgotten bones.
Okay, that's great to know for people. You may know when you hit this level because your friends will say, I think you should see a doctor, dude, which is what happened to me when I was going through the hardest parts of my life and also had a couple medical conditions that turned my brain into bees. The doctor was like, well, shucks, you need more than a car wash.
Okay, that's great to know for people. You may know when you hit this level because your friends will say, I think you should see a doctor, dude, which is what happened to me when I was going through the hardest parts of my life and also had a couple medical conditions that turned my brain into bees. The doctor was like, well, shucks, you need more than a car wash.
Okay, that's great to know for people. You may know when you hit this level because your friends will say, I think you should see a doctor, dude, which is what happened to me when I was going through the hardest parts of my life and also had a couple medical conditions that turned my brain into bees. The doctor was like, well, shucks, you need more than a car wash.
Let's check under the hood there, buddy. But yes, what is the technique for sloughing off persistent, crusty, muddy feelings? When it comes to things like gratitude and meditation, how much is effective? Like how much can we get away with if we're feeling real down in the dumps, but we're low on motivation? How much gratitude is enough? How much meditation is enough? How much exercise is enough?
Let's check under the hood there, buddy. But yes, what is the technique for sloughing off persistent, crusty, muddy feelings? When it comes to things like gratitude and meditation, how much is effective? Like how much can we get away with if we're feeling real down in the dumps, but we're low on motivation? How much gratitude is enough? How much meditation is enough? How much exercise is enough?
Let's check under the hood there, buddy. But yes, what is the technique for sloughing off persistent, crusty, muddy feelings? When it comes to things like gratitude and meditation, how much is effective? Like how much can we get away with if we're feeling real down in the dumps, but we're low on motivation? How much gratitude is enough? How much meditation is enough? How much exercise is enough?
For more on this, feel free to peruse papers such as Brief Mindfulness Meditation Improves Attention in Novices and Let It Be, Mindful Acceptance Downregulates Pain and Negative Emotion, both published by Dr. Hedy Kober. So scientists in lab coats have dedicated their research and their grant money budgets to proving that yes, meditation does help. It's free.
For more on this, feel free to peruse papers such as Brief Mindfulness Meditation Improves Attention in Novices and Let It Be, Mindful Acceptance Downregulates Pain and Negative Emotion, both published by Dr. Hedy Kober. So scientists in lab coats have dedicated their research and their grant money budgets to proving that yes, meditation does help. It's free.
For more on this, feel free to peruse papers such as Brief Mindfulness Meditation Improves Attention in Novices and Let It Be, Mindful Acceptance Downregulates Pain and Negative Emotion, both published by Dr. Hedy Kober. So scientists in lab coats have dedicated their research and their grant money budgets to proving that yes, meditation does help. It's free.
It takes less time than making a sandwich. We can do this. Let's do this.
It takes less time than making a sandwich. We can do this. Let's do this.
It takes less time than making a sandwich. We can do this. Let's do this.
I think that's so true. Whenever I get out of the habit of running, which is now, I'll go do a lap at the reservoir, but I'll have to just tell myself the first couple times I do it, the first month even, as long as I just get around the reservoir, even crawling is fine.
I think that's so true. Whenever I get out of the habit of running, which is now, I'll go do a lap at the reservoir, but I'll have to just tell myself the first couple times I do it, the first month even, as long as I just get around the reservoir, even crawling is fine.
I think that's so true. Whenever I get out of the habit of running, which is now, I'll go do a lap at the reservoir, but I'll have to just tell myself the first couple times I do it, the first month even, as long as I just get around the reservoir, even crawling is fine.
Expecting yourself to get back into running at a certain pace or doing things whole hog can be so intimidating, you just want to give up right away.
Expecting yourself to get back into running at a certain pace or doing things whole hog can be so intimidating, you just want to give up right away.
Expecting yourself to get back into running at a certain pace or doing things whole hog can be so intimidating, you just want to give up right away.
with cognitive scientist, psychology professor, happiness lab host, Yale researcher, and eudaemonologist, Dr. Lori Santos. Hello, Dr. Santos. How are you? I'm great. Thanks. I'm sure as a happiness doctor, as a professor of happiness, you probably are inclined to say, I feel great more often than the rest of us.
with cognitive scientist, psychology professor, happiness lab host, Yale researcher, and eudaemonologist, Dr. Lori Santos. Hello, Dr. Santos. How are you? I'm great. Thanks. I'm sure as a happiness doctor, as a professor of happiness, you probably are inclined to say, I feel great more often than the rest of us.
with cognitive scientist, psychology professor, happiness lab host, Yale researcher, and eudaemonologist, Dr. Lori Santos. Hello, Dr. Santos. How are you? I'm great. Thanks. I'm sure as a happiness doctor, as a professor of happiness, you probably are inclined to say, I feel great more often than the rest of us.
Yeah. Like I never want to obey a dick who's yelling at me. So why do I do that to myself?
Yeah. Like I never want to obey a dick who's yelling at me. So why do I do that to myself?
Yeah. Like I never want to obey a dick who's yelling at me. So why do I do that to myself?
yeah i would i would want to slap my own self for saying that to me you know like i'm yeah i'm the the hardest on myself more than i would ever tolerate in somebody else which is so funny that we do that but um you know you mentioned the term positive psychology before and i'm so curious about that because i feel like i can't tell if it's flim flam or not that positive psychology is totally like a legit practice or is it
yeah i would i would want to slap my own self for saying that to me you know like i'm yeah i'm the the hardest on myself more than i would ever tolerate in somebody else which is so funny that we do that but um you know you mentioned the term positive psychology before and i'm so curious about that because i feel like i can't tell if it's flim flam or not that positive psychology is totally like a legit practice or is it
yeah i would i would want to slap my own self for saying that to me you know like i'm yeah i'm the the hardest on myself more than i would ever tolerate in somebody else which is so funny that we do that but um you know you mentioned the term positive psychology before and i'm so curious about that because i feel like i can't tell if it's flim flam or not that positive psychology is totally like a legit practice or is it
something along the lines of like toxic positivity at all costs. What is positive psychology? What do scientists think of it?
something along the lines of like toxic positivity at all costs. What is positive psychology? What do scientists think of it?
something along the lines of like toxic positivity at all costs. What is positive psychology? What do scientists think of it?
Are there any myths about happiness that you find yourself constantly having to bust?
Are there any myths about happiness that you find yourself constantly having to bust?
Are there any myths about happiness that you find yourself constantly having to bust?
Is there a test where people can go figure out how happy am I?
Is there a test where people can go figure out how happy am I?
Is there a test where people can go figure out how happy am I?
Oh, hey, it's that guy who saw you see him bump his head and then you smiled at each other like, that's okay. Allie Ward, back with an episode of Ologies. It's going to fix your whole life. Just kidding. Actually, maybe not. It very well might fix your life. I love the Life Fixer episodes. And this ologist is someone I've had in my sights for a few years.
Oh, hey, it's that guy who saw you see him bump his head and then you smiled at each other like, that's okay. Allie Ward, back with an episode of Ologies. It's going to fix your whole life. Just kidding. Actually, maybe not. It very well might fix your life. I love the Life Fixer episodes. And this ologist is someone I've had in my sights for a few years.
Oh, hey, it's that guy who saw you see him bump his head and then you smiled at each other like, that's okay. Allie Ward, back with an episode of Ologies. It's going to fix your whole life. Just kidding. Actually, maybe not. It very well might fix your life. I love the Life Fixer episodes. And this ologist is someone I've had in my sights for a few years.
So, yes, I checked this out. And if you Google Authentic Happiness, you can help fellow eudaimonologists by taking scored questionnaires. They have Authentic Happiness Inventory, the General Happiness Scale, Positive and Negative Effect Questionnaire. the four dice emotions questionnaire, I myself opted for the classic, the authentic happiness inventory.
So, yes, I checked this out. And if you Google Authentic Happiness, you can help fellow eudaimonologists by taking scored questionnaires. They have Authentic Happiness Inventory, the General Happiness Scale, Positive and Negative Effect Questionnaire. the four dice emotions questionnaire, I myself opted for the classic, the authentic happiness inventory.
So, yes, I checked this out. And if you Google Authentic Happiness, you can help fellow eudaimonologists by taking scored questionnaires. They have Authentic Happiness Inventory, the General Happiness Scale, Positive and Negative Effect Questionnaire. the four dice emotions questionnaire, I myself opted for the classic, the authentic happiness inventory.
And on a scale of one to five, Jarrett, what do you think I got? Three. You know me too well. Did I? Yeah, 3.08. So maybe I'll meditate a bunch and then I'll take it in a few months. Also, I have no idea what all those different tests do, but I'm sure that the scientists know and that's all that matters.
And on a scale of one to five, Jarrett, what do you think I got? Three. You know me too well. Did I? Yeah, 3.08. So maybe I'll meditate a bunch and then I'll take it in a few months. Also, I have no idea what all those different tests do, but I'm sure that the scientists know and that's all that matters.
And on a scale of one to five, Jarrett, what do you think I got? Three. You know me too well. Did I? Yeah, 3.08. So maybe I'll meditate a bunch and then I'll take it in a few months. Also, I have no idea what all those different tests do, but I'm sure that the scientists know and that's all that matters.
Can I ask you some listener questions? Sure. But before that, let's aim a money cannon at a worthy cause. This week, Dr. Santos chose DonorsChoose.org, which lets teachers list their classroom needs. And then regular jabronis like you and me can make their dreams come true.
Can I ask you some listener questions? Sure. But before that, let's aim a money cannon at a worthy cause. This week, Dr. Santos chose DonorsChoose.org, which lets teachers list their classroom needs. And then regular jabronis like you and me can make their dreams come true.
Can I ask you some listener questions? Sure. But before that, let's aim a money cannon at a worthy cause. This week, Dr. Santos chose DonorsChoose.org, which lets teachers list their classroom needs. And then regular jabronis like you and me can make their dreams come true.
So DonorsChoose has fulfilled 1.7 million classroom projects from butterfly cocoons to robotics kits to pencils and paper and books with diverse characters. Okay, so modern day Ali here saying that when this first aired, we funded a few classrooms and this time around we picked a few new ones to fund.
So DonorsChoose has fulfilled 1.7 million classroom projects from butterfly cocoons to robotics kits to pencils and paper and books with diverse characters. Okay, so modern day Ali here saying that when this first aired, we funded a few classrooms and this time around we picked a few new ones to fund.
So DonorsChoose has fulfilled 1.7 million classroom projects from butterfly cocoons to robotics kits to pencils and paper and books with diverse characters. Okay, so modern day Ali here saying that when this first aired, we funded a few classrooms and this time around we picked a few new ones to fund.
Mrs. Alvarado's classroom at Mainz Elementary School in Calexico, California needed funding to purchase some reading comprehension passages to motivate students to read and write. She also needed new chairs for the classroom for which apparently the United States does not have enough money. So teachers have to buy these things. So happy to fund that for Mrs. Alvarado.
Mrs. Alvarado's classroom at Mainz Elementary School in Calexico, California needed funding to purchase some reading comprehension passages to motivate students to read and write. She also needed new chairs for the classroom for which apparently the United States does not have enough money. So teachers have to buy these things. So happy to fund that for Mrs. Alvarado.
Mrs. Alvarado's classroom at Mainz Elementary School in Calexico, California needed funding to purchase some reading comprehension passages to motivate students to read and write. She also needed new chairs for the classroom for which apparently the United States does not have enough money. So teachers have to buy these things. So happy to fund that for Mrs. Alvarado.
Another classroom project funded was Mrs. Myers at Thurgood Marshall Elementary School in Morrow, Georgia, who says that research has shown that hunger has a variety of detrimental effects on kids and that some of her students come from less fortunate homes and require additional resources and support.
Another classroom project funded was Mrs. Myers at Thurgood Marshall Elementary School in Morrow, Georgia, who says that research has shown that hunger has a variety of detrimental effects on kids and that some of her students come from less fortunate homes and require additional resources and support.
Another classroom project funded was Mrs. Myers at Thurgood Marshall Elementary School in Morrow, Georgia, who says that research has shown that hunger has a variety of detrimental effects on kids and that some of her students come from less fortunate homes and require additional resources and support.
We also tossed in a donation to Mrs. Perez Copperfield Elementary School in Converse, Texas for snacks for her students that may have financial barriers that limit their access to food. And the snacks will provide them with brain power to focus while also removing the social stigma of going without a snack during the day.
We also tossed in a donation to Mrs. Perez Copperfield Elementary School in Converse, Texas for snacks for her students that may have financial barriers that limit their access to food. And the snacks will provide them with brain power to focus while also removing the social stigma of going without a snack during the day.
We also tossed in a donation to Mrs. Perez Copperfield Elementary School in Converse, Texas for snacks for her students that may have financial barriers that limit their access to food. And the snacks will provide them with brain power to focus while also removing the social stigma of going without a snack during the day.
So thanks for Dr. Santos for the heads up on DonorsChoose.org and to sponsors who made this round of donations possible. Okay, happy to ask your questions for Dr. Santos. OK, Ariel Reagan wants to know, do animals experience happiness? Are they happier than people?
So thanks for Dr. Santos for the heads up on DonorsChoose.org and to sponsors who made this round of donations possible. Okay, happy to ask your questions for Dr. Santos. OK, Ariel Reagan wants to know, do animals experience happiness? Are they happier than people?
So thanks for Dr. Santos for the heads up on DonorsChoose.org and to sponsors who made this round of donations possible. Okay, happy to ask your questions for Dr. Santos. OK, Ariel Reagan wants to know, do animals experience happiness? Are they happier than people?
So one thing some scientists try to observe is play behavior like hopping around and running, chewing on stuff. My tiny poodle angel, she rubs her butt against stuff like a tire or my shoe. That's her version of typing hashtag blessed. Courtney Graziano wants to know, can anxious people be happy?
So one thing some scientists try to observe is play behavior like hopping around and running, chewing on stuff. My tiny poodle angel, she rubs her butt against stuff like a tire or my shoe. That's her version of typing hashtag blessed. Courtney Graziano wants to know, can anxious people be happy?
So one thing some scientists try to observe is play behavior like hopping around and running, chewing on stuff. My tiny poodle angel, she rubs her butt against stuff like a tire or my shoe. That's her version of typing hashtag blessed. Courtney Graziano wants to know, can anxious people be happy?
That's great. I'm already learning so much. Can I have you say really quick your first and last name and your pronouns?
That's great. I'm already learning so much. Can I have you say really quick your first and last name and your pronouns?
That's great. I'm already learning so much. Can I have you say really quick your first and last name and your pronouns?
Oh, that's really well said. Aiden Patko and Meg G want to know, is it flim flam that smiling actually makes you happier? Or is that a true fact? Meg says, and laughing. And a lot of other folks looking at you, patrons, say, see Demos 101, Alexis Wallach, and Ashley Herbal. Want to know, can you fake it till you make it?
Oh, that's really well said. Aiden Patko and Meg G want to know, is it flim flam that smiling actually makes you happier? Or is that a true fact? Meg says, and laughing. And a lot of other folks looking at you, patrons, say, see Demos 101, Alexis Wallach, and Ashley Herbal. Want to know, can you fake it till you make it?
Oh, that's really well said. Aiden Patko and Meg G want to know, is it flim flam that smiling actually makes you happier? Or is that a true fact? Meg says, and laughing. And a lot of other folks looking at you, patrons, say, see Demos 101, Alexis Wallach, and Ashley Herbal. Want to know, can you fake it till you make it?
Is there anything you can do for a friend who is feeling really unhappy to help them out as well?
Is there anything you can do for a friend who is feeling really unhappy to help them out as well?
Is there anything you can do for a friend who is feeling really unhappy to help them out as well?
So if you ever think, why would I check up on someone? I don't know how to fix things. Don't worry. Just be alive and in their orbit and listen or tell them about how lizards have two dicks. That's what I do. Patrick Giaveroni says, first time question asker wants to know happiness and the microbiome connection. What can we do to improve our microbiome? Is there a connection? What's the deal?
So if you ever think, why would I check up on someone? I don't know how to fix things. Don't worry. Just be alive and in their orbit and listen or tell them about how lizards have two dicks. That's what I do. Patrick Giaveroni says, first time question asker wants to know happiness and the microbiome connection. What can we do to improve our microbiome? Is there a connection? What's the deal?
So if you ever think, why would I check up on someone? I don't know how to fix things. Don't worry. Just be alive and in their orbit and listen or tell them about how lizards have two dicks. That's what I do. Patrick Giaveroni says, first time question asker wants to know happiness and the microbiome connection. What can we do to improve our microbiome? Is there a connection? What's the deal?
you have been on my radar for years actually and so i'm really stoked to talk to you because this is an ology that i've wanted to do for i think since before i even started the podcast do you are you familiar with this that word What a monology? What a monology? No, maybe that word.
you have been on my radar for years actually and so i'm really stoked to talk to you because this is an ology that i've wanted to do for i think since before i even started the podcast do you are you familiar with this that word What a monology? What a monology? No, maybe that word.
you have been on my radar for years actually and so i'm really stoked to talk to you because this is an ology that i've wanted to do for i think since before i even started the podcast do you are you familiar with this that word What a monology? What a monology? No, maybe that word.
Nice. You can just get in on poop on the ground floor.
Nice. You can just get in on poop on the ground floor.
Nice. You can just get in on poop on the ground floor.
I'm in. I think that you literally can buy poop like on the black market for your own at home, like fecal transplants. P.S. Of course I looked this up. And getting an enema with someone else's poop, it's called fecal microbiota transplantation.
I'm in. I think that you literally can buy poop like on the black market for your own at home, like fecal transplants. P.S. Of course I looked this up. And getting an enema with someone else's poop, it's called fecal microbiota transplantation.
I'm in. I think that you literally can buy poop like on the black market for your own at home, like fecal transplants. P.S. Of course I looked this up. And getting an enema with someone else's poop, it's called fecal microbiota transplantation.
And in the microbiology gut biome episode from November 2018, we go into detail about how our microbiomes are suffering from processed foods and artificial ingredients and overuse of antibiotics for things like viral infections that don't need antibiotics.
And in the microbiology gut biome episode from November 2018, we go into detail about how our microbiomes are suffering from processed foods and artificial ingredients and overuse of antibiotics for things like viral infections that don't need antibiotics.
And in the microbiology gut biome episode from November 2018, we go into detail about how our microbiomes are suffering from processed foods and artificial ingredients and overuse of antibiotics for things like viral infections that don't need antibiotics.
So given that up to 90% of our serotonin is synthesized in our simmering poo-filled guts, DIY FMTs, do-it-yourself fecal microbiota transplantations, as they're called, they're getting more and more common as doctors are still reluctant to shove poo up our butts, even when we ask nicely.
So given that up to 90% of our serotonin is synthesized in our simmering poo-filled guts, DIY FMTs, do-it-yourself fecal microbiota transplantations, as they're called, they're getting more and more common as doctors are still reluctant to shove poo up our butts, even when we ask nicely.
So given that up to 90% of our serotonin is synthesized in our simmering poo-filled guts, DIY FMTs, do-it-yourself fecal microbiota transplantations, as they're called, they're getting more and more common as doctors are still reluctant to shove poo up our butts, even when we ask nicely.
So according to an American Journal of Gastroenterology article called Understanding the Scope of Do-It-Yourself Fecal Microbiota Transplant, 82% of folks who tried it felt better afterwards. And 92% of those knew their stool donor who, I don't know, I guess you find by asking your friends who seems chill and has good poops.
So according to an American Journal of Gastroenterology article called Understanding the Scope of Do-It-Yourself Fecal Microbiota Transplant, 82% of folks who tried it felt better afterwards. And 92% of those knew their stool donor who, I don't know, I guess you find by asking your friends who seems chill and has good poops.
So according to an American Journal of Gastroenterology article called Understanding the Scope of Do-It-Yourself Fecal Microbiota Transplant, 82% of folks who tried it felt better afterwards. And 92% of those knew their stool donor who, I don't know, I guess you find by asking your friends who seems chill and has good poops.
So you can ask a doctor to screen a donor sample and see if they'll do it. Otherwise, there's plenty of instructions on the internet. Apparently you buy a blender at Goodwill or something and then you maybe burn it later. None of this is my beeswax. Ask your doctors. Don't sue me or make me a smoothie later. I'm good.
So you can ask a doctor to screen a donor sample and see if they'll do it. Otherwise, there's plenty of instructions on the internet. Apparently you buy a blender at Goodwill or something and then you maybe burn it later. None of this is my beeswax. Ask your doctors. Don't sue me or make me a smoothie later. I'm good.
So you can ask a doctor to screen a donor sample and see if they'll do it. Otherwise, there's plenty of instructions on the internet. Apparently you buy a blender at Goodwill or something and then you maybe burn it later. None of this is my beeswax. Ask your doctors. Don't sue me or make me a smoothie later. I'm good.
Rahala wants to know, first time question asker, is there any truth to the notion that people who are generally happy tend to live longer? And I want to say my dad has cancer and his oncologists were saying just positivity is really helpful for patients in general. Okay, 2024 Allie here. And my dad did pass away in the summer of 2022. And I talk about hospice tips and
Rahala wants to know, first time question asker, is there any truth to the notion that people who are generally happy tend to live longer? And I want to say my dad has cancer and his oncologists were saying just positivity is really helpful for patients in general. Okay, 2024 Allie here. And my dad did pass away in the summer of 2022. And I talk about hospice tips and
Rahala wants to know, first time question asker, is there any truth to the notion that people who are generally happy tend to live longer? And I want to say my dad has cancer and his oncologists were saying just positivity is really helpful for patients in general. Okay, 2024 Allie here. And my dad did pass away in the summer of 2022. And I talk about hospice tips and
getting through grief in an episode from July 2022. We'll link that in the show notes for anyone who's going through something similar. But I will say that my dad outlived his prognosis by eight years, and he stayed absolutely boldly optimistic throughout all of his treatment. And we all tried to buoy his spirits in that direction. Do we find that statistically sound?
getting through grief in an episode from July 2022. We'll link that in the show notes for anyone who's going through something similar. But I will say that my dad outlived his prognosis by eight years, and he stayed absolutely boldly optimistic throughout all of his treatment. And we all tried to buoy his spirits in that direction. Do we find that statistically sound?
getting through grief in an episode from July 2022. We'll link that in the show notes for anyone who's going through something similar. But I will say that my dad outlived his prognosis by eight years, and he stayed absolutely boldly optimistic throughout all of his treatment. And we all tried to buoy his spirits in that direction. Do we find that statistically sound?
Patron Annika Callen asked, why are feelings of happiness stronger when you're younger? And RL Shaul Peleg, Paige and RJ George wanted to know if happier people tend to be of a certain gender or age. RJ wants to make sure they don't become a grumpy crank who hates everyone. Yeah, I wonder, do we find that people get happier as they age or crankier as they age?
Patron Annika Callen asked, why are feelings of happiness stronger when you're younger? And RL Shaul Peleg, Paige and RJ George wanted to know if happier people tend to be of a certain gender or age. RJ wants to make sure they don't become a grumpy crank who hates everyone. Yeah, I wonder, do we find that people get happier as they age or crankier as they age?
Patron Annika Callen asked, why are feelings of happiness stronger when you're younger? And RL Shaul Peleg, Paige and RJ George wanted to know if happier people tend to be of a certain gender or age. RJ wants to make sure they don't become a grumpy crank who hates everyone. Yeah, I wonder, do we find that people get happier as they age or crankier as they age?
So I guess this is a study of that feeling or that state. And you're the perfect person to talk to because obviously you have your podcast and you teach courses at Yale about this. So can you tell me a little bit about your background? How did you start studying cognition and feelings? Where did it start?
So I guess this is a study of that feeling or that state. And you're the perfect person to talk to because obviously you have your podcast and you teach courses at Yale about this. So can you tell me a little bit about your background? How did you start studying cognition and feelings? Where did it start?
So I guess this is a study of that feeling or that state. And you're the perfect person to talk to because obviously you have your podcast and you teach courses at Yale about this. So can you tell me a little bit about your background? How did you start studying cognition and feelings? Where did it start?
You know, I wasn't sure about that and kids, and I hadn't thought to ask that, but I have friends who have kids. I have friends who don't have kids. I myself have a daughter. She's a dog, and she's probably the only kid I'm going to have, and she's an animal, but... I don't know. Like in general, is that the case?
You know, I wasn't sure about that and kids, and I hadn't thought to ask that, but I have friends who have kids. I have friends who don't have kids. I myself have a daughter. She's a dog, and she's probably the only kid I'm going to have, and she's an animal, but... I don't know. Like in general, is that the case?
You know, I wasn't sure about that and kids, and I hadn't thought to ask that, but I have friends who have kids. I have friends who don't have kids. I myself have a daughter. She's a dog, and she's probably the only kid I'm going to have, and she's an animal, but... I don't know. Like in general, is that the case?
It's just the stress of having kids, but then the satisfaction that you did it later. So it's kind of like a like it balances.
It's just the stress of having kids, but then the satisfaction that you did it later. So it's kind of like a like it balances.
It's just the stress of having kids, but then the satisfaction that you did it later. So it's kind of like a like it balances.
Yeah, I'm so in awe of people who do have kids just because it seems so challenging. And I know myself, I'm like so scatterbrained that I feel like I just don't necessarily feel like that would be my strong suit. But there are some people who love kiteboarding and others who are like, no, thank you. Like, I would rather be on the beach reading a book.
Yeah, I'm so in awe of people who do have kids just because it seems so challenging. And I know myself, I'm like so scatterbrained that I feel like I just don't necessarily feel like that would be my strong suit. But there are some people who love kiteboarding and others who are like, no, thank you. Like, I would rather be on the beach reading a book.
Yeah, I'm so in awe of people who do have kids just because it seems so challenging. And I know myself, I'm like so scatterbrained that I feel like I just don't necessarily feel like that would be my strong suit. But there are some people who love kiteboarding and others who are like, no, thank you. Like, I would rather be on the beach reading a book.
So it really depends on what you like, you know.
So it really depends on what you like, you know.
So it really depends on what you like, you know.
First time question asker Alana Rickman asks, has the rapid development in technology in the last few years had an overall increase or decrease in people's happiness? And patrons Diana, Ash Gelhaus, Jenna Mandola, Lucas O'Neill, Nicole Kleinman all echoed that. And yeah, I wonder too, in terms of being in the moment, is being on our phone, does that take us out of the moment?
First time question asker Alana Rickman asks, has the rapid development in technology in the last few years had an overall increase or decrease in people's happiness? And patrons Diana, Ash Gelhaus, Jenna Mandola, Lucas O'Neill, Nicole Kleinman all echoed that. And yeah, I wonder too, in terms of being in the moment, is being on our phone, does that take us out of the moment?
First time question asker Alana Rickman asks, has the rapid development in technology in the last few years had an overall increase or decrease in people's happiness? And patrons Diana, Ash Gelhaus, Jenna Mandola, Lucas O'Neill, Nicole Kleinman all echoed that. And yeah, I wonder too, in terms of being in the moment, is being on our phone, does that take us out of the moment?
Is that take us into a kind of another like universe or galaxy of what's happening in this digital realm versus what's happening around us?
Is that take us into a kind of another like universe or galaxy of what's happening in this digital realm versus what's happening around us?
Is that take us into a kind of another like universe or galaxy of what's happening in this digital realm versus what's happening around us?
Yeah, that's such a good way to look at it is to understand just what our brain is sort of grappling with. why it's difficult. It's not like a personal failing that we sometimes look to that. But yeah, I definitely find that when I'm looking for something to sort of boost my dopamine or happiness, I'll go to my phone and then after an hour, I'll go like, I was like, that really did the trick.
Yeah, that's such a good way to look at it is to understand just what our brain is sort of grappling with. why it's difficult. It's not like a personal failing that we sometimes look to that. But yeah, I definitely find that when I'm looking for something to sort of boost my dopamine or happiness, I'll go to my phone and then after an hour, I'll go like, I was like, that really did the trick.
Yeah, that's such a good way to look at it is to understand just what our brain is sort of grappling with. why it's difficult. It's not like a personal failing that we sometimes look to that. But yeah, I definitely find that when I'm looking for something to sort of boost my dopamine or happiness, I'll go to my phone and then after an hour, I'll go like, I was like, that really did the trick.
If I had practiced some things I knew might be longer lasting, but at least I can't blame myself for why I was looking. Anthony had a great question asked, what if certain aspects of your happiness or the pursuit of your happiness cause others you care about to be unhappy, thereby making you unhappy?
If I had practiced some things I knew might be longer lasting, but at least I can't blame myself for why I was looking. Anthony had a great question asked, what if certain aspects of your happiness or the pursuit of your happiness cause others you care about to be unhappy, thereby making you unhappy?
If I had practiced some things I knew might be longer lasting, but at least I can't blame myself for why I was looking. Anthony had a great question asked, what if certain aspects of your happiness or the pursuit of your happiness cause others you care about to be unhappy, thereby making you unhappy?
What about those circumstances where you're worried that your happiness might make other people dislike you?
What about those circumstances where you're worried that your happiness might make other people dislike you?
What about those circumstances where you're worried that your happiness might make other people dislike you?
And if you're worried someone in your life will be upset at your happiness, just know it's your life and it's OK to feel good. If anyone has a problem with it, that is their own baggage to address. I highly suggest some of Melanie Beatty's writings about codependency. I'm just going to leave that suggestion right there for you. Ben DeWurst says, I'm just finishing up my MBA.
And if you're worried someone in your life will be upset at your happiness, just know it's your life and it's OK to feel good. If anyone has a problem with it, that is their own baggage to address. I highly suggest some of Melanie Beatty's writings about codependency. I'm just going to leave that suggestion right there for you. Ben DeWurst says, I'm just finishing up my MBA.
And if you're worried someone in your life will be upset at your happiness, just know it's your life and it's OK to feel good. If anyone has a problem with it, that is their own baggage to address. I highly suggest some of Melanie Beatty's writings about codependency. I'm just going to leave that suggestion right there for you. Ben DeWurst says, I'm just finishing up my MBA.
And in one of my classes, they talked about how optimism is actually an attribute of emotional intelligence and can be learned. As an optimist myself, I'd always considered it more of a part of my personality, like extrovert or introverted and unteachable. So how would someone go about learning and training to be an optimist? And what's the relationship there?
And in one of my classes, they talked about how optimism is actually an attribute of emotional intelligence and can be learned. As an optimist myself, I'd always considered it more of a part of my personality, like extrovert or introverted and unteachable. So how would someone go about learning and training to be an optimist? And what's the relationship there?
And in one of my classes, they talked about how optimism is actually an attribute of emotional intelligence and can be learned. As an optimist myself, I'd always considered it more of a part of my personality, like extrovert or introverted and unteachable. So how would someone go about learning and training to be an optimist? And what's the relationship there?
Also, is there a relationship between happiness and emotional or just like IQ introversion? intelligence. I feel like there's some badge of like, if you're unhappy, it must mean that you know more and therefore you're smarter.
Also, is there a relationship between happiness and emotional or just like IQ introversion? intelligence. I feel like there's some badge of like, if you're unhappy, it must mean that you know more and therefore you're smarter.
Also, is there a relationship between happiness and emotional or just like IQ introversion? intelligence. I feel like there's some badge of like, if you're unhappy, it must mean that you know more and therefore you're smarter.
OK, so if the term gratitude journaling conjures up visions of sickly, sweetened chamomile tea. Just opt for the term delights, which is just like a straightforward good cup of coffee. Actually, for years, my husband, Jarrett, has cited a short tally of favorite things. His are lavender soap, coffee, and sandwiches.
OK, so if the term gratitude journaling conjures up visions of sickly, sweetened chamomile tea. Just opt for the term delights, which is just like a straightforward good cup of coffee. Actually, for years, my husband, Jarrett, has cited a short tally of favorite things. His are lavender soap, coffee, and sandwiches.
OK, so if the term gratitude journaling conjures up visions of sickly, sweetened chamomile tea. Just opt for the term delights, which is just like a straightforward good cup of coffee. Actually, for years, my husband, Jarrett, has cited a short tally of favorite things. His are lavender soap, coffee, and sandwiches.
And he says just thinking of those three things and letting his mind wander to more helped him during a really deep depression. So... gratitude journaling delights, whatever you want to call it. Jarrett calls his his do not kill yourself list, which is kind of like the Miami Cola bang energy drink of a gratitude practice branding. Would you agree? That's my favorite bang flavor. Is it really?
And he says just thinking of those three things and letting his mind wander to more helped him during a really deep depression. So... gratitude journaling delights, whatever you want to call it. Jarrett calls his his do not kill yourself list, which is kind of like the Miami Cola bang energy drink of a gratitude practice branding. Would you agree? That's my favorite bang flavor. Is it really?
And he says just thinking of those three things and letting his mind wander to more helped him during a really deep depression. So... gratitude journaling delights, whatever you want to call it. Jarrett calls his his do not kill yourself list, which is kind of like the Miami Cola bang energy drink of a gratitude practice branding. Would you agree? That's my favorite bang flavor. Is it really?
Miami Cola? That's on the list.
Miami Cola? That's on the list.
Miami Cola? That's on the list.
So, yes, Ross Gay, The Book of Delights. And again, check out Neil Pazrucha's work and his ophthalmology episode. Another fun project, start a private Twitter just for yourself and chronicle delights of your own or a private Instagram account or something. Also, I should note that in recording this episode, the internet dropped out a few times. So I had to email Dr. Santos a new link during it.
So, yes, Ross Gay, The Book of Delights. And again, check out Neil Pazrucha's work and his ophthalmology episode. Another fun project, start a private Twitter just for yourself and chronicle delights of your own or a private Instagram account or something. Also, I should note that in recording this episode, the internet dropped out a few times. So I had to email Dr. Santos a new link during it.
So, yes, Ross Gay, The Book of Delights. And again, check out Neil Pazrucha's work and his ophthalmology episode. Another fun project, start a private Twitter just for yourself and chronicle delights of your own or a private Instagram account or something. Also, I should note that in recording this episode, the internet dropped out a few times. So I had to email Dr. Santos a new link during it.
And she has an auto reply message explaining that she may not write back. And it explains that she gets more than 100 emails a day. And it reads in part, quote, Keeping up with that many questions slash requests meant that I was hurting my own time affluence and having less time for the important projects I really should be prioritizing.
And she has an auto reply message explaining that she may not write back. And it explains that she gets more than 100 emails a day. And it reads in part, quote, Keeping up with that many questions slash requests meant that I was hurting my own time affluence and having less time for the important projects I really should be prioritizing.
And she has an auto reply message explaining that she may not write back. And it explains that she gets more than 100 emails a day. And it reads in part, quote, Keeping up with that many questions slash requests meant that I was hurting my own time affluence and having less time for the important projects I really should be prioritizing.
And so I am currently trying my own personal well-being experiment. I'm going to try to practice what I preach and reduce the amount of time I usually spend on email. Thanks for your understanding as I try not to overcommit and protect myself from burning out. Oh, I love her. Totally solid major props for walking her talk. She is the best. And in respecting her time, we wrapped it up.
And so I am currently trying my own personal well-being experiment. I'm going to try to practice what I preach and reduce the amount of time I usually spend on email. Thanks for your understanding as I try not to overcommit and protect myself from burning out. Oh, I love her. Totally solid major props for walking her talk. She is the best. And in respecting her time, we wrapped it up.
And so I am currently trying my own personal well-being experiment. I'm going to try to practice what I preach and reduce the amount of time I usually spend on email. Thanks for your understanding as I try not to overcommit and protect myself from burning out. Oh, I love her. Totally solid major props for walking her talk. She is the best. And in respecting her time, we wrapped it up.
Last listener question. I saved it because it was juicy. Oh, it's so juicy. Bailey Ricketts wants to know, how do we find a balance between being happy and living in the moment while acknowledging all the hurt and suffering going on in the world? Essentially guilt over being happy when you know that there's a lot of bad shit out there.
Last listener question. I saved it because it was juicy. Oh, it's so juicy. Bailey Ricketts wants to know, how do we find a balance between being happy and living in the moment while acknowledging all the hurt and suffering going on in the world? Essentially guilt over being happy when you know that there's a lot of bad shit out there.
Last listener question. I saved it because it was juicy. Oh, it's so juicy. Bailey Ricketts wants to know, how do we find a balance between being happy and living in the moment while acknowledging all the hurt and suffering going on in the world? Essentially guilt over being happy when you know that there's a lot of bad shit out there.
That just, I'm sure, gave so many people permission to pursue happiness who feel maybe guilty about it. And by so many people, I mean me specifically, but... No, that's really helpful. Last two questions I ask before we go. Worst thing about your job? Worst thing about being a eudaemotologist and the best thing?
That just, I'm sure, gave so many people permission to pursue happiness who feel maybe guilty about it. And by so many people, I mean me specifically, but... No, that's really helpful. Last two questions I ask before we go. Worst thing about your job? Worst thing about being a eudaemotologist and the best thing?
That just, I'm sure, gave so many people permission to pursue happiness who feel maybe guilty about it. And by so many people, I mean me specifically, but... No, that's really helpful. Last two questions I ask before we go. Worst thing about your job? Worst thing about being a eudaemotologist and the best thing?
I just got your auto reply that was like, Yo, I get like 100 emails a day. Thank you so much. But I got to stick to my principles.
I just got your auto reply that was like, Yo, I get like 100 emails a day. Thank you so much. But I got to stick to my principles.
I just got your auto reply that was like, Yo, I get like 100 emails a day. Thank you so much. But I got to stick to my principles.
I've never heard those words before, but I love them. Best thing about your job. Best thing about your career.
I've never heard those words before, but I love them. Best thing about your job. Best thing about your career.
I've never heard those words before, but I love them. Best thing about your job. Best thing about your career.
I'm I am so happy to talk to you. I have been a fangirl forever. So ask smart people happy questions or bummer questions. They are wonderful and they're great at sharing their knowledge. Obviously, get more of Dr. Lori Santos with her podcast, Happiness Lab. Her socials are linked in the show notes. She is great. If you can take her course, take it. It's also available on Coursera for free.
I'm I am so happy to talk to you. I have been a fangirl forever. So ask smart people happy questions or bummer questions. They are wonderful and they're great at sharing their knowledge. Obviously, get more of Dr. Lori Santos with her podcast, Happiness Lab. Her socials are linked in the show notes. She is great. If you can take her course, take it. It's also available on Coursera for free.
I'm I am so happy to talk to you. I have been a fangirl forever. So ask smart people happy questions or bummer questions. They are wonderful and they're great at sharing their knowledge. Obviously, get more of Dr. Lori Santos with her podcast, Happiness Lab. Her socials are linked in the show notes. She is great. If you can take her course, take it. It's also available on Coursera for free.
So look for that. I will link all of those on my website too, which is at allyward.com slash ologies. We are at allyward with one L on Twitter and Instagram. We're also at ologies on Instagram and Twitter. Find us there. Be our friends. Thank you to Aaron Talbert, who moderates and admins the ologies podcast Facebook group and is excellent at that.
So look for that. I will link all of those on my website too, which is at allyward.com slash ologies. We are at allyward with one L on Twitter and Instagram. We're also at ologies on Instagram and Twitter. Find us there. Be our friends. Thank you to Aaron Talbert, who moderates and admins the ologies podcast Facebook group and is excellent at that.
So look for that. I will link all of those on my website too, which is at allyward.com slash ologies. We are at allyward with one L on Twitter and Instagram. We're also at ologies on Instagram and Twitter. Find us there. Be our friends. Thank you to Aaron Talbert, who moderates and admins the ologies podcast Facebook group and is excellent at that.
Also, now we have Smologies episodes up in their own feed. Just look for Smologies wherever you get podcasts and subscribe. and spread the word, you'll find this new green logo. And Smologies are all swear-free. They're safe for all ages. It's S-M- O-L-O-G-I-E-S for your small ones. Thank you, Emily White of The Wordery. She is a professional transcriptionist who makes transcriptions available.
Also, now we have Smologies episodes up in their own feed. Just look for Smologies wherever you get podcasts and subscribe. and spread the word, you'll find this new green logo. And Smologies are all swear-free. They're safe for all ages. It's S-M- O-L-O-G-I-E-S for your small ones. Thank you, Emily White of The Wordery. She is a professional transcriptionist who makes transcriptions available.
Also, now we have Smologies episodes up in their own feed. Just look for Smologies wherever you get podcasts and subscribe. and spread the word, you'll find this new green logo. And Smologies are all swear-free. They're safe for all ages. It's S-M- O-L-O-G-I-E-S for your small ones. Thank you, Emily White of The Wordery. She is a professional transcriptionist who makes transcriptions available.
She's great. Hire her. She's wonderful. Kayla Patton bleeps our episodes. Those are available on our website for free. The link is in the show note. We also have Smologies, which are episodes we put out once every two weeks. They are cut down versions of classic ones that have already ran. They are cleaned up and kid friendly. They're ready for the classroom.
She's great. Hire her. She's wonderful. Kayla Patton bleeps our episodes. Those are available on our website for free. The link is in the show note. We also have Smologies, which are episodes we put out once every two weeks. They are cut down versions of classic ones that have already ran. They are cleaned up and kid friendly. They're ready for the classroom.
She's great. Hire her. She's wonderful. Kayla Patton bleeps our episodes. Those are available on our website for free. The link is in the show note. We also have Smologies, which are episodes we put out once every two weeks. They are cut down versions of classic ones that have already ran. They are cleaned up and kid friendly. They're ready for the classroom.
So look for Smologies too if you have Smologites. Thank you to Noelle Dilworth and Susan Hale for helping me take care of all the ologies business behind the scenes. Thank you to Stephen Ray Morris and Zeke Rodriguez Thomas, who are also working on Smologies and Wonderful. Thank you to editor Jared Sleeper. And also thank you to Grammy.
So look for Smologies too if you have Smologites. Thank you to Noelle Dilworth and Susan Hale for helping me take care of all the ologies business behind the scenes. Thank you to Stephen Ray Morris and Zeke Rodriguez Thomas, who are also working on Smologies and Wonderful. Thank you to editor Jared Sleeper. And also thank you to Grammy.
So look for Smologies too if you have Smologites. Thank you to Noelle Dilworth and Susan Hale for helping me take care of all the ologies business behind the scenes. Thank you to Stephen Ray Morris and Zeke Rodriguez Thomas, who are also working on Smologies and Wonderful. Thank you to editor Jared Sleeper. And also thank you to Grammy.
We are actually recording this in the car as I'm on my way up to see my pop for his birthday. and I recorded this at five in the morning this morning before I hit the road and then I realized that my mic gain was all the way down so I had to re-record it on the side of the road, which is what we're doing.
We are actually recording this in the car as I'm on my way up to see my pop for his birthday. and I recorded this at five in the morning this morning before I hit the road and then I realized that my mic gain was all the way down so I had to re-record it on the side of the road, which is what we're doing.
We are actually recording this in the car as I'm on my way up to see my pop for his birthday. and I recorded this at five in the morning this morning before I hit the road and then I realized that my mic gain was all the way down so I had to re-record it on the side of the road, which is what we're doing.
We mentioned her work in the Awesomeology episode with Neil Pazricha. And instead of just citing her, we're essentially interrogating her now to shake her for brain science.
We mentioned her work in the Awesomeology episode with Neil Pazricha. And instead of just citing her, we're essentially interrogating her now to shake her for brain science.
We mentioned her work in the Awesomeology episode with Neil Pazricha. And instead of just citing her, we're essentially interrogating her now to shake her for brain science.
that's one secret of the episode the other secret is you know how sometimes it'll be like if you need to clean a screen just use a microfiber cloth and you're like yeah well what do I use to clean it with though like Windex what are we talking here water what do I use with the microfiber cloth so I just tried just the microfiber cloth like you're supposed to use and it cleaned the shit out of my laptop
that's one secret of the episode the other secret is you know how sometimes it'll be like if you need to clean a screen just use a microfiber cloth and you're like yeah well what do I use to clean it with though like Windex what are we talking here water what do I use with the microfiber cloth so I just tried just the microfiber cloth like you're supposed to use and it cleaned the shit out of my laptop
that's one secret of the episode the other secret is you know how sometimes it'll be like if you need to clean a screen just use a microfiber cloth and you're like yeah well what do I use to clean it with though like Windex what are we talking here water what do I use with the microfiber cloth so I just tried just the microfiber cloth like you're supposed to use and it cleaned the shit out of my laptop
Like, my monitor's never been so clean. All he did was use one of those microfiber, too soft on your hands cloths, and apparently they're good at what they're supposed to be used for. So, go figure. Okay, bye-bye. This is the sound of my dog drinking water in the car. Okay, 2024 me, thank you for listening. Back next week with a very fresh new episode about something in your bed.
Like, my monitor's never been so clean. All he did was use one of those microfiber, too soft on your hands cloths, and apparently they're good at what they're supposed to be used for. So, go figure. Okay, bye-bye. This is the sound of my dog drinking water in the car. Okay, 2024 me, thank you for listening. Back next week with a very fresh new episode about something in your bed.
Like, my monitor's never been so clean. All he did was use one of those microfiber, too soft on your hands cloths, and apparently they're good at what they're supposed to be used for. So, go figure. Okay, bye-bye. This is the sound of my dog drinking water in the car. Okay, 2024 me, thank you for listening. Back next week with a very fresh new episode about something in your bed.
Trust me, it's good. Okay, bye-bye for real.
Trust me, it's good. Okay, bye-bye for real.
Trust me, it's good. Okay, bye-bye for real.
Yeah. Much different, I think, than just Instagram quotes on a page. Here you've got someone who studies the brain, who studies psychology. You're probably people go into it with a little bit of faith that you'll have some evidence based information, right?
Yeah. Much different, I think, than just Instagram quotes on a page. Here you've got someone who studies the brain, who studies psychology. You're probably people go into it with a little bit of faith that you'll have some evidence based information, right?
Yeah. Much different, I think, than just Instagram quotes on a page. Here you've got someone who studies the brain, who studies psychology. You're probably people go into it with a little bit of faith that you'll have some evidence based information, right?
Okay, so the term positive psychology was popularized by Dr. Martin Seligman, who felt that the contemporary psychology was just too deeply focused on what's fucked up about us, not how can we live better. So it focuses on things like self-discovery and a sense of purpose and expressing yourself through creativity and authentically. So we're going to get to more of that in a bit.
Okay, so the term positive psychology was popularized by Dr. Martin Seligman, who felt that the contemporary psychology was just too deeply focused on what's fucked up about us, not how can we live better. So it focuses on things like self-discovery and a sense of purpose and expressing yourself through creativity and authentically. So we're going to get to more of that in a bit.
Okay, so the term positive psychology was popularized by Dr. Martin Seligman, who felt that the contemporary psychology was just too deeply focused on what's fucked up about us, not how can we live better. So it focuses on things like self-discovery and a sense of purpose and expressing yourself through creativity and authentically. So we're going to get to more of that in a bit.
so she got her bachelor's in psychology and her master's and phd in cognition and brain behavior from harvard university and is now a cognitive scientist and a psychology professor at yale where she has taught the course psychology and the good life Oh, she's been a TED speaker. She was named one of Time Magazine's leading campus celebrities. And she hosts a podcast called The Happiness Lab.
so she got her bachelor's in psychology and her master's and phd in cognition and brain behavior from harvard university and is now a cognitive scientist and a psychology professor at yale where she has taught the course psychology and the good life Oh, she's been a TED speaker. She was named one of Time Magazine's leading campus celebrities. And she hosts a podcast called The Happiness Lab.
so she got her bachelor's in psychology and her master's and phd in cognition and brain behavior from harvard university and is now a cognitive scientist and a psychology professor at yale where she has taught the course psychology and the good life Oh, she's been a TED speaker. She was named one of Time Magazine's leading campus celebrities. And she hosts a podcast called The Happiness Lab.
But first, from small hairy primates to larger, slightly less hairy primates like us. And, you know, where did you make that jump from non-human primates and dogs into humans? Did you find that a lot of the research just correlates based on what our brain structures are, how our neurons work?
But first, from small hairy primates to larger, slightly less hairy primates like us. And, you know, where did you make that jump from non-human primates and dogs into humans? Did you find that a lot of the research just correlates based on what our brain structures are, how our neurons work?
But first, from small hairy primates to larger, slightly less hairy primates like us. And, you know, where did you make that jump from non-human primates and dogs into humans? Did you find that a lot of the research just correlates based on what our brain structures are, how our neurons work?
Okay, so I looked into some data on if Powerball winners are happier and it's a mixed bag of money. So one thing for sure, people do take more vacations when they win the lottery. And by contrast, 60% of Americans take zero vacations a year. And apparently one thing that pleases us so much about vacations is just having something, anything to look forward to.
Okay, so I looked into some data on if Powerball winners are happier and it's a mixed bag of money. So one thing for sure, people do take more vacations when they win the lottery. And by contrast, 60% of Americans take zero vacations a year. And apparently one thing that pleases us so much about vacations is just having something, anything to look forward to.
Okay, so I looked into some data on if Powerball winners are happier and it's a mixed bag of money. So one thing for sure, people do take more vacations when they win the lottery. And by contrast, 60% of Americans take zero vacations a year. And apparently one thing that pleases us so much about vacations is just having something, anything to look forward to.
So just start peppering your calendar with any excursion you can. Even if it's just like a nice bowl of soup next Wednesday or a hike next weekend. Pack a picnic. Leisure time on any scale is apparently worth a million bucks and tax-free. So, hey. Is happiness more about being happy with ourselves and accepting ourselves or external circumstances?
So just start peppering your calendar with any excursion you can. Even if it's just like a nice bowl of soup next Wednesday or a hike next weekend. Pack a picnic. Leisure time on any scale is apparently worth a million bucks and tax-free. So, hey. Is happiness more about being happy with ourselves and accepting ourselves or external circumstances?
So just start peppering your calendar with any excursion you can. Even if it's just like a nice bowl of soup next Wednesday or a hike next weekend. Pack a picnic. Leisure time on any scale is apparently worth a million bucks and tax-free. So, hey. Is happiness more about being happy with ourselves and accepting ourselves or external circumstances?
Or is it mission-based, like you're on the right path to doing something that you believe in?
Or is it mission-based, like you're on the right path to doing something that you believe in?
Or is it mission-based, like you're on the right path to doing something that you believe in?
So is it mind over matter? This is where you ask smart persons doofy questions.
So is it mind over matter? This is where you ask smart persons doofy questions.
So is it mind over matter? This is where you ask smart persons doofy questions.
What is happiness? How do you even define it?
What is happiness? How do you even define it?
What is happiness? How do you even define it?
So it's been a wonky few years. We all know. And as one person who wrote a review this week of Ologies said, it always brings a smile to my face when I hear people talk about their passions. I'm grateful every day for Ologies and giving me my life back. AJ Buxton, who left that review, I'm very glad you're here. Thank you for leaving that fresh one.
So it's been a wonky few years. We all know. And as one person who wrote a review this week of Ologies said, it always brings a smile to my face when I hear people talk about their passions. I'm grateful every day for Ologies and giving me my life back. AJ Buxton, who left that review, I'm very glad you're here. Thank you for leaving that fresh one.
So it's been a wonky few years. We all know. And as one person who wrote a review this week of Ologies said, it always brings a smile to my face when I hear people talk about their passions. I'm grateful every day for Ologies and giving me my life back. AJ Buxton, who left that review, I'm very glad you're here. Thank you for leaving that fresh one.
So I'm going to pause us for a second just to ponder. How do you feel in your life? How are your days to days? Maybe some nice tea in the morning, some supportive co-workers, maybe some evening knitting or a walk with a friend. Or do you hate your coffee maker and you don't know why you started re-watching The Big Bang Theory from episode one? You're tired. Go to bed.
So I'm going to pause us for a second just to ponder. How do you feel in your life? How are your days to days? Maybe some nice tea in the morning, some supportive co-workers, maybe some evening knitting or a walk with a friend. Or do you hate your coffee maker and you don't know why you started re-watching The Big Bang Theory from episode one? You're tired. Go to bed.
So I'm going to pause us for a second just to ponder. How do you feel in your life? How are your days to days? Maybe some nice tea in the morning, some supportive co-workers, maybe some evening knitting or a walk with a friend. Or do you hate your coffee maker and you don't know why you started re-watching The Big Bang Theory from episode one? You're tired. Go to bed.
Now, what about with your life? Do you feel a sense of purpose? Are you proud of your life? Do you feel authentic? Just think about it for a second. It's totally okay if you're like, Some of it's good. Some of it sucks eggs. Or I'm very fortunate. Why am I such a grumpy walrus? And there are lots of different hacks that we can do to improve both of those constructs.
Now, what about with your life? Do you feel a sense of purpose? Are you proud of your life? Do you feel authentic? Just think about it for a second. It's totally okay if you're like, Some of it's good. Some of it sucks eggs. Or I'm very fortunate. Why am I such a grumpy walrus? And there are lots of different hacks that we can do to improve both of those constructs.
Now, what about with your life? Do you feel a sense of purpose? Are you proud of your life? Do you feel authentic? Just think about it for a second. It's totally okay if you're like, Some of it's good. Some of it sucks eggs. Or I'm very fortunate. Why am I such a grumpy walrus? And there are lots of different hacks that we can do to improve both of those constructs.
In terms of emotions themselves, is happiness an umbrella for things like joy and relief and satisfaction and contentment? Or are those all individual separate emotions?
In terms of emotions themselves, is happiness an umbrella for things like joy and relief and satisfaction and contentment? Or are those all individual separate emotions?
In terms of emotions themselves, is happiness an umbrella for things like joy and relief and satisfaction and contentment? Or are those all individual separate emotions?
And what about you in particular? I know that you said you can read the studies and understand and know, but sometimes it's hard to do. You know, how has your life changed since you switched a little bit of your career focus on this?
And what about you in particular? I know that you said you can read the studies and understand and know, but sometimes it's hard to do. You know, how has your life changed since you switched a little bit of your career focus on this?
And what about you in particular? I know that you said you can read the studies and understand and know, but sometimes it's hard to do. You know, how has your life changed since you switched a little bit of your career focus on this?
And a 2024 reviewer, V Farm, who wrote that, without fail, my favorite episodes are those on topics I had no interest in. Y'all, vampires, trees, gar, brilliantly unenthusiastic sounding crab experts. There's nothing quite so wonderful. Thank you, V Farm, for getting it. And thanks to everyone who leaves me reviews. They keep the show up in the charts.
And a 2024 reviewer, V Farm, who wrote that, without fail, my favorite episodes are those on topics I had no interest in. Y'all, vampires, trees, gar, brilliantly unenthusiastic sounding crab experts. There's nothing quite so wonderful. Thank you, V Farm, for getting it. And thanks to everyone who leaves me reviews. They keep the show up in the charts.
And a 2024 reviewer, V Farm, who wrote that, without fail, my favorite episodes are those on topics I had no interest in. Y'all, vampires, trees, gar, brilliantly unenthusiastic sounding crab experts. There's nothing quite so wonderful. Thank you, V Farm, for getting it. And thanks to everyone who leaves me reviews. They keep the show up in the charts.
Oh, hey, it's last year's calendar.
No one quite hops in as much as you do.
And you even go in an iron lung in this book, which was a really heartwarming story.
But what I loved about reading this is it runs the gamut from just tissue and cells to mechanics.
Mm-hmm.
And right after we did record, I closed my laptop and I started crying.
But you will find out why in a bit.
But first, thank you to patrons of the show who support us for as little as a dollar a month and submit questions before we record.
Mary writes that she has found herself at the Amputee Coalition National Conference.
And she quotes a passage from the memoir of Judy Berna, who is an elective amputee born with spina bifida.
And having complications with her foot that twisted as it grew, Mary writes that her childhood was dense with surgeries and stubborn infections.
And then in her memoir, Just One Foot, Judy writes, my foot had become a science experiment.
Thank you to everyone wearing things from allogiesmerch.com.
a mess of flesh and bones, but few working nerves.
And Judy told Mary that even though this foot exhausted and limited her, she'd watch people with prosthetic limbs managing things she struggled with.
But the surgeon said, like, no, we want you to keep it.
Friends, I'm right there with you.
Thank you to all the caring souls who leave reviews of the show because you know it helps and you know I read them, including listener Recommended in Dreams who wrote a review saying, Seriously, twice now I have recommended this podcast to people in a dream.
And I think that you touched on it really well in the book of, well, don't you just want to print another leg?
Or don't you want to do something that looks much more lifelike rather than what's more functional?
And how that's much more for the comfort of the people around them.
Like, can you not look different than me?
Because that freaks me out.
And meanwhile, it's not as useful or as handy at all.
Mary explains that there are rock climbing feet, there are blade-shaped prosthetics for running, basketball, and soccer.
There are surfing feet, swim fins, pivots for kayaking, handlebar adapters for mountain bikes.
There are TDs for archery, lacrosse, table tennis, basketball, fishing, golf, ice hockey, softball, baseball, uneven bars, martial arts, billiards, volleyball, bowling, weightlifting, and cricket.
And there's many more for artists and other occupations, she writes.
And there's also engineers working on whatever needs might come up.
Also, a TD is a terminal device or an end of limb prosthetic for limb loss or limb difference.
I also loved how, because you went to that conference, you were sort of embedded there and you were able to tell your readers, this is like the nomenclature they use now.
Recommended in dreams.
This is kind of the vibe, like here's questions not to ask.
You sort of exposed through your own experience how people in that community are
would rather interact with people, which I thought was very helpful to someone who wasn't familiar with it.
You know, you also went to a pig hospital, essentially, like in terms of xenotransplantation.
I thank you in dreams.
Was there any parts of writing this book or any parts of looking at replacing human parts that really freaked you out that you had to get over the eye surgery or like a beating heart cradled in your hands or freaked you out?
Also, if you want some G-rated, family-friendly versions of ologies, you can subscribe to Smologies, which are classroom-safe edits.
And for some very recent research on this from late August, you can see the article in Nature titled Pig-to-Human Lung Xenotransplantation into a Brain-Dead Recipient, which reports a case of pig-to-human lung xenotransplantation in which a lung from a six-gene edited pig was transplanted into a 39-year-old brain-dead male human recipient following a brain hemorrhage.
and further studies are necessary.
But reducing the risk of, say, endogenous pig retroviruses busting into human hosts like a horror movie and our own immune systems trying to evict this precious organ, these tweaked genes are the key.
They're in their own separate feed, S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S.
Wow.
You can find them at the link in the show notes or wherever you get your podcasts.
Okay.
G-rated, good for everyone.
Also, thank you to sponsors of this show who make it possible for us to donate to causes of the ologist choosing each week.
Yeah, just your own pig in goop.
You've got a goose pig somewhere waiting for you.
Waiting for you to fail.
Yeah, exactly.
Over the last 20 years, this guest has written so many New York Times bestsellers.
Have you given more thought...
to donating your body.
I mean, obviously with Stiff, we know what happens to cadavers and donating your body to science, but you also have a great chapter about tissue donation, which my husband has some donor tissue in his knee going strong for like four years.
And for more on your garbage knees, you can see our genicular traumatology episode with Dr. Kevin Stone, who fixes those knees.
He ended up completing his black belt in jujitsu.
He never thought he'd get to go back.
And I'm like, dude, you owe that family a letter for sure.
Okay, let's get into how and why we modify the human body, past, present, and future as we talk to this author and journalist who has gone to actual ends of the earth to interview the finest experts with the best stories.
You've got to send them a letter, especially now that you did this thing you wanted to do.
And ethically, your kin have to sign off on it.
Do you think you're going to be donating your body to science?
What do you think?
Mary notes in Replaceable You that regardless of a person's wishes or the dot on their driver's license, tissue can't be recovered until the next of kin has answered the eligibility questions.
Is it hard to get accepted though?
This is true.
Yes.
But I wonder if your family stands by a computer waiting to see if you got into it, into core like they do with Harvard.
So prep your flesh for figuring out how to write a book, getting to fourth base in a lab.
Oh, my God.
She got in.
She got into 75 more people.
75 more people.
We're going to get so many letters.
Not your Achilles heel.
You got someone else's vice.
Yeah.
Oh, no shit.
That is my Achilles heel.
I cannot say no.
to tinned fish it is my new achilles heel and i don't know where it came from i god i also enjoyed um i mean you have chapters on asses boobs so much i did not know breathing intubation you intubated a dummy for this what does it sound like when you're in the operating room is it real squishy sounding
Organs from Critters, How to Find the Best Nuggets of a Conversation, Bugs on Drugs, Bendable Genitals, Elective Amputation, Gene-Tweaked Pigs, Vacuum Chambers, Beating Hearts, Leftover Tendons, and so much more with replaceable you author, science communicator, lauded journalist, my personal career hero, I like them so much it's embarrassing, the icon and writer on human technomorphology, Mary Roach.
that it's very honest.
And that's a good question to ask.
Can I ask you some questions from listeners?
Yes, of course.
Okay, cool.
And before we get into human technomorphology questions with Mary, we're going to donate to a cause of her choosing.
And this week we're doing a double donation.
The first is to the Amputee Coalition, which is a community, a lifeline, and a source of strength for over 5.6 million Americans with limb loss and limb difference.
So whether you're newly navigating this journey, supporting a loved one, or looking for ways to give back, this is your space.
The Amputee Coalition builds a future where individuals can live fully and without limitations.
You can learn more and donate at amputeecoalition.org.
And we're also supporting the United Ostomy Associations of America.
which empowers and advocates for people who have had or will have an ostomy or continent diversion surgery.
And their mission is to promote quality of life for people with ostomies and continent diversions through information, support, advocacy, and collaboration.
You can find out more and donate at ostomy.org.
So thank you to the sponsors of Ologies who make those donations possible.
You don't know if you should throw away.
It's a labor to list them all, but I will because they are glorious books.
Okay, so we've asked Mary about writing Replaceable You, but now Fancy Nana asked, what materials would be used in 3D printing for prosthetics?
I assume you can't use PLA or resin, Fancy Nana adds.
Definitely not thinking of self-printing and replacing my arthritic joints.
And Turner Pierce wanted to know, printed organs and bones.
What's going on with that?
They said when I was applying to grad school a decade ago, they were using medical imaging to scan and 3D print bones for anthropology research.
And they said they thought it would be so cool to look at a printed version of my bones or organs.
But are they printing anyone's bones up to replace your own bones?
It's funny to think that somewhere right now there's some place going, you know what I mean?
And there's just a bone rising from the plastic or whatever.
But like frosting of different viscosities, kind of.
This is going to prop this up and feed this and that goes away, but this stays.
Right, right.
Exactly.
So Flossatron, a bit sci-fi, but do you think big brands will start producing body parts where you can get like the latest installation?
So it becomes like a fashion statement to have the latest update, like our iPhones, essentially.
Do people working in this sphere, are they looking that far in the future?
Or are they really just looking like, can we get this thing to market?
Can we like prove that it works?
And Mary Roach, an icon, a legend.
Yeah, that's a big job.
I've read all of your books, including I got an advanced copy of a book coming out.
So pluripotent, side note, means that a cell is kind of a blank canvas.
It's down to become a lot of different kinds of cells and tissues.
And scientists are working on making these pluripotent cells for the people off the shelf options instead of custom.
So it's kind of like pret-a-porter instead of couture.
Your book will come out the day this is released.
What's not changing fast is history.
And Mary covers the first silicone breasts like syringes just willy-nilly raw-dogged straight into the flesh and also looks at techniques that have been used for years as she chats with a Cedars-Sinai urologist about vaginas over Italian food.
And when it comes to your books, does the name come first?
Mackenzie W., first-time question asker, wanted to know, in what ways can this field provide gender-affirming care?
And are there applications for technology that can help trans folks?
And I feel like you did touch on that in the book.
And was a lot of that surprising to you?
Or was there something from that that surprised you or that left you thinking differently?
Does the subject come first?
Do you have leftover pieces from another book that you realize all fit into a new book?
So you may know these titles.
How did you decide on the topic?
Alex Minor wanted to know, in all your deep dives into the strange corners of science, what is a bizarre factor moment that didn't make it into a book but still lives kind of rent free in your brain?
And I don't know if there's NDAs that are involved here, but if you can spill whatever you spill, I'm all ears.
They're like, let's get this done.
Let's get this.
You know, we actually eat more.
Stiff, The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers.
I'm really hungry.
I'm just not even tired.
I'm just not even tired right now at all.
That's bonkers.
Good for them.
So I invite you to see the 2022 paper, Effects of Cocaine and Heroin and Their Combination on the Development Rate of Califora Vomitoria, which tossed some fly eggs into pots of minced pork and then just watched them grow up into maggots.
So these lab-coded drug lords found that maggots seem to favor the effects of the cocaine.
But yeah, this is all important because if you're trying to date a body...
time-wise, how fast and how much these maggots develop could be affected by what kind of final weekend the corpse had had.
And if you're wondering how the flesh-loving bottle fly got the name Califora vomitoria, it looked...
I look this up and it seems that the site of maggots all over butcher's meat pre-refrigeration was just enough to make people straight up hurl.
So they named the fly Califora vomitoria.
And we do have a fly episode for you with fly enthusiast and dipterologist Dr. Brian Lessard.
And if that is not creepy enough...
We have an osteology one about bones and body farms.
And if that is not creepy enough for you, our October Spooktober series kicks off with an episode in a few weeks all about creepiness from a psychologist who studies creepiness.
And not to suggest that Mary eats cocaine pork to work faster, but...
are you already working on another book?
Because I feel like it's, I can't even imagine when a book comes out.
You must be so exhausted.
But do you have like four other books just in the wings?
I have a pitch.
Yeah.
What about, what about, have you ever thought of football referees?
Hear me out.
You never know where it could take you.
No matter what you write, I'll read it, obviously.
I have a section on my bookshelf that's just Mary Roach in my library, of course.
The last questions I always ask, I usually ask what sucks about people's jobs.
Any rants you have about this book, about writing this book?
Anyone give you an interview and then say you couldn't use it?
Or was anyone an asshole?
You don't have to name them?
Spook, Science Tackles the Afterlife.
ECMO, side note, I had to look this up, stands for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
And I should note also, while looking up what ECMO stands for, I happened to be listening to an old playlist that included the 1982 gothy synth track, The Chauffeur.
And I was looking this up right as Duran Duran delivered the lyric, and the droning engine throbs in time with your beating heart.
Anyway, Mary gets to meet people who save all kinds of lives, human ones.
Ali Ward.
What about your favorite aspect of writing this book in terms of places it took you or people that you met?
I interviewed a rat expert about sewer rats once, and I had one of those moments where it was just like, I can't believe that I get to do this as a job.
Do you ever have those moments when you're working on something or just go, wow, lucky me?
Bonk, The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex.
Yeah, that part of the book too was beautifully written and touching how later he was incorporated into the book.
And I won't spoil it for anyone, but really was touching.
And I've always thought that the fact that you're a character in the book and your reaction is both delightful and also a proxy for anyone who can imagine themselves as you.
But anything you write, I'll read it.
So
I mean, no pressure on the next one, but this book isn't even out and I tore through it in like a day and a half.
I'm just copying you, really.
I just learned from the best.
You ran so that I could stumble behind you.
And I really, really so appreciate getting to interview you, even though it took three times.
And I'm so sorry about technical issues.
I'm holding back tears.
You have no idea.
As soon as I close this laptop, it's fucking over for my mascara.
It's over.
Really just keep doing what you're doing.
You're the best and everyone buy this book.
It's such a good book.
You too.
Thank you so much, Allie.
So ask idols questions of idiocy.
I love Mary Roach.
I love her work.
There would be no ologies without her, an icon.
So thank you so much, Mary, for being on the show.
And do pick up any of her books, including Replaceable You, Adventures in Human Anatomy, which comes out today, September 16th, 2025.
And then collect them all.
Stiff, Spook, Bonk, Packing for Mars, Gulp, Grunt, Fuzz.
They're all good.
Also, don't get her confused with the Mary Roach who was on American Idol.
But we will link this Mary Roach's books in the show notes.
You can find them literally wherever books are sold.
Every single one is phenomenal.
Donations, again, went to amputeecoalition and ostomy.org.
And if you don't want to hear about having sex under the prying eyes of an ultrasound, we have Smologies episodes, which are shorter.
They're kid-friendly edits of ologies.
You can find those wherever you get podcasts.
or linked in the show notes.
Join Patreon at patreon.com slash ologies, where we are posting social content there called Quips, including an exclusive tour of the bugs that I keep in my freezer.
We are at ologies on Blue Sky and Instagram.
I'm at Allie Ward on both.
Thank you, Aaron Talbert, who admins the ologies podcast Facebook group.
Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts.
Scheduling producer Noelle Dilwer scheduled this a few times.
Thank you, Noelle.
Susan Hale is the irreplaceable managing director.
Our mechanical breath of fresh air is Jake Chafee.
And bleeding, beating heart, Mercedes Maitland is our lead editor.
Nick Thorburn wrote the theme music.
And if you stick around until the end of the episode, I burden you with a secret from my life.
And this week, it's that when I wrote an article for the LA Times in 2010 covering packing for Mars, and I got a chance to interview Mary then.
I had a devil of a time turning the copy in.
I was just in knots.
I was terrified that someone I respected so much would read it and it would be trash.
And after it was published, she wrote me a really nice note afterward.
And I printed up that note and I kept it on my desk for my more anxious days.
If you even remotely tolerate me and you're not already in love with Mary Roach, you will be after one paragraph in one of her books.
So enjoy.
Packing for Mars, The Curious Science of Life in the Void, Gulp, Adventures on the Elementary Canal, Grunt, The Curious Science of Humans at War, and Fuzz, When Nature Breaks the Law.
Probably, hopefully.
Although it's a dream come true for certain people, I'm sure.
Did she write about this for Vogue?
No.
Could she get it out of her mind?
Of course not.
And this is a very special episode of Ologies that I know so many of you right now are losing your damn minds.
This guest is the Meryl Streep of science writing.
What was your Kohler faucet for Replaceable You?
I looked it up.
Meryl Streep has three Oscars.
This person, seven New York Times bestsellers, absolute goat.
This was in the nation of Georgia near Turkey in Armenia.
And in Replaceable You, Mary notes that instead of commercial penile implants supporting the rigidity, it's the patient's middle finger and that the digit is skinned but otherwise implanted whole.
And Mary continues describing a sort of skin log lying in a small surgical basin.
And she wistfully notes, quote, I'm reminded of a Vienna sausage.
A canned meat product I enjoyed as a child.
The same approximate color and circumference.
The same blunt ends.
And then it undergoes a second and more cosmetic follow-up surgery.
With just an eight brain and a notepad, this person has changed the way the public interfaces with science.
And then a life of penile satisfaction and probably a lot of boner jokes.
But no pedicure?
No nail on it though, right?
Thank you.
Okay.
So the palm bones are actually called the metacarpals.
But in this case, the phalanges and then after the wrist bones area of this gentleman's body got a promotion and they got a job transfer to down south.
Now, because of that, in the first half, I just barraged them with questions about science communication and how they write books.
Out of sight, out of mind.
Yeah.
One thing I love about all of your books is how much we get to tag along with you and the taxi drivers you talk to and the receptionists that you talk to and what the lobby looks like.
And I'm always wondering how you can capture these moments with all of these different scientists in labs and
you know, smearing pesto on focaccia.
How are you recalling everything?
Do you have like a secret, those Ray-Ban spy cameras?
Do you have a videographer?
and their approach to storytelling in conveying science to the public, what it's like behind the scenes.
You don't have a tripod with like a influencer style, just video rolling.
And then in the second half, we really dive into your questions on human technomorphology, which is the topic in their latest book, Replaceable You, Adventures in Human Anatomy, which comes out today, September 16th.
Look at that.
So in Replaceable You, Mary offers more details, writing that this hand-painted picture is white with a red and green floral pattern.
And she envisions the man maybe pouring iced tea for a lover, this jug dangling from his member.
And she continues saying,
It's not full, says the surgeon.
He means the pitcher.
This is just to show the resistance.
It's very strong.
Effectively penetrative, she concludes.
This is just a day on the job for Mary in the Caucasus Mountains.
You always tend to travel for your books, and this one took you to Mongolia.
to talk to eye surgeons, how much time are they giving you before they'll let you see an orthopedic surgeon hammering into someone's knee or jamming a cataract out of an eye?
Does that usually happen on the first day or do you have to coax, do you have to charm your way into that?
I had to wait to put this up until today.
It's like really awkward.
Get the book.
Or in your case, can you get in an MRI and bone, which I recall.
Love it.
I read it in a day and a half.
It's like a bingeable book, this one.
And to enjoy that chapter in its fullest, you can see her bestseller, Bonk!
The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex, in which she describes a research physician beginning with taking still images for which, quote, we must hold still for several seconds like Victorians posing for a tintype, only not like Victorians posing for a tintype.
So this interview, side note, had to be rescheduled a few times just because of some tech glitches.
She continues that the doctor says, now please make some sort of movement.
And then in case it's not clear, in case her husband might be contemplating flapping an elbow or saluting the flag, the doctor adds, in and out.
The doctor is pleased with this result.
Again, this is from the book Bonk, in case it's like not already in your shopping cart.
Oh hey, it's yesterday's pants, also known as today's pants.
Thanks to everyone in Ologies Merch from ologiesmerch.com.
Thank you to the folks who help out the show now going into its ninth year, which is the longest I've ever held a job, by leaving reviews, which help the show so much.
And what about the types of clay?
I mean, I think about like terracotta clay and I think about red clay and white clays.
Are there different types that are regional?
And do you have to purify them before you make something with them?
Is that why there might be bubbles that explode?
I love these people.
This is episode 467.
And I went down a hole looking up abandoned kaolin quarries where the clay is washed out from the decomposing granite.
And when I say I went down a hole, it's because I found one video where a guy's on a day hike and is walking around the rim of a quarry lake.
And what he thinks is the earth is really just a thin crust over a slurry of like quicksand texture.
I read all of them, including this recent one from Dr. Tess West, who wrote...
mineral slop.
And he gets sucked in with one foot, and then he scrambles up the granite.
He almost dies, but he lives to tell the tale.
And he posted this video to be like, heads up, be careful when you're in an abandoned clay quarry, lest you be suctioned into Mother Earth's wet grasp once again.
But yeah, this clay can be moved around the Earth's surface by water flows or even ice sheets over time.
And it can get finer or it can pick up
Smells like sharpened pencils.
like the rock equivalent of lint as it goes, sort of.
Each episode of Ologies has that slightly giddy sensation of your favorite teacher pulling out a fresh transparency sheet for the overhead projector and captivating the imagination of every kid in the class.
It is our anniversary.
So the pure clay picks up other stuff.
So it may vary in mineral or metal content and strength and have different color or texture.
So the rougher clays may be used for like earthenware, which is fired at a lowish temperature.
It's a bit porous, not usually glazed.
It is certainly not coffee mug material, but it's good for planters or roof tiles.
Now stoneware is kind of a step up.
And it's fired a little hotter, making it less porous, and it's better for dishes and things.
But weird to think, whenever you handle ceramics, not only are you using a product of just innumerable generations passing down techniques one by one, but also from the very terra of a place you maybe have never been or never will be with minerals gathered through the eons,
I plan to sit outside tomorrow morning over a cup of something hot and cry about it.
Are there places that are clayless?
Are there regions that just were not blessed with stashes of clay?
Also, thank you to Bunny who left the review.
Minus some stars because we have swears in the show.
So gossiping about clay types...
Do you have, you can admit it here, but do you have favorite clays to work with or any that you don't?
Yes.
Bunny, we made you a whole show.
It's called Smologies.
S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S.
I had never heard of Blu-Tack.
And in fact, checking this aside, I spelled it a number of different ways, thinking it was some kind of clay or maybe a medical substance.
They are linked right in the show notes.
And then realized that Blu-Tack is the sticky putty that you can use to adhere posters on walls because it kind of heats up when it's in your hands and then it peels off when you need it to.
Do we lack this Blu-Tack in America?
They're in their own filth-free...
Like we do healthcare?
I don't know.
Anyway, imagine trying to sculpt gum fresh from a mouth.
feed of classroom-safe, kid-friendly episodes.
They're called Smologies.
So I checked on the traditional gift guide for an eighth anniversary and...
We made them for you.
I hope you enjoy them.
No swears.
Smologies.
Also, thanks to sponsors of the show who make it possible to donate to a cause of Theologist choosing each week.
And yes, this is well documented, such as the 2022 study, An Experimental Approach to Assessing the Tempering and Firing of Local Pottery Production in Nubia During the New Kingdom Period, which notes that the addition of organics, for example, plant fibers and animal dung, and I'm assuming the plant fibers in animal dung,
increases the plasticity of the clay, and that these organic-tempered vessels, if you will, were often lighter in weight and more portable.
Now, what about Murdicotta, you ask?
Oh, you haven't heard of it.
You must not have visited the Italian Museum of Shit, known as the Museo della Murda, which in 2016 presented ceramics made from cow dung, Tuscan clay, straw, and other farm waste in Murdicotta.
Okay, grab grandpa's old dress shirt, reverse it as a smock.
Variable quantities, they say.
But from the creations of a horse to the creation of a horse.
Well, a technical question.
If it's sculptured, is it still pottery or is pottery only something that's thrown on a wheel or like a pinch pot?
Let's get into an art project on the difference between ceramics and pottery, where clay comes from, if there's enough in the world, how you can spot clay in the wild, how long have humans been making pots?
And one thing I love about what you do is just how much history you put into your pieces with making so many replicas, too.
And can you tell me a little bit about why that began as a passion for you of keeping museum objects for museums, but also being able to make replicas where other people and other can see things in three dimension across the world?
How did that begin?
So just as a reminder, we were chatting by video, and I have a few mugs I'm quite partial to.
Quattro Ceramics made me a custom Art Thou a Spirit of Health or a Goblin Damned mug from the Vampirology episode.
And I also love Corey from Belfast Clay Studio in Maine's work.
And this morning, I casually lifted a Whitefish Pottery 24-ounce clay stein to my lips and
filled to the brim with hot green tea.
And on video calls, I take for granted that this thing is shockingly large, and it looks like a medieval tankard.
And to my delight and my shock, I had impressed these new friends that I adore.
This is my daily driver.
What were the first ceramics?
What is glaze exactly?
Why did your pots explode?
What's porcelain?
So I looked it up and I found a BBC article furnishing photos of these 4,000-year-old terracotta-hued food vessels that look like planters with almost a cable-knit texture and fluted cuffs at the top.
When was the wheel invented?
Not that wheel, but the other wheel.
And Graham describes a request he got.
for a contemporary piece of pottery that was heavily influenced by these excavated vessels and their textures.
And it was to be used as a centerpiece in the visitor center.
And as an experienced potter, could he make a replica of a precious artifact to serve as an educational tool?
What excavations of stoneware have revealed about our ancient ancestors?
Graham's replicas held such attention to detail and reverence for
potters past, that they have landed in the hands of various leaders and dignitaries globally, which years later still seems to baffle and amuse him.
The Venus figurines of history.
Was that something that you ever kind of thought would be a trajectory for you?
That's got to be a bit surreal.
It's pottery, folks.
When it comes to the way that you use pottery to educate in history, how far back do you go when it comes to teaching?
The hidden ingredients that might surprise you.
Do you ever have to inform people, like, when did pottery start?
Is that the Venus of Willendorf?
No.
Graham held a small figurine up to his webcam for me.
And before this interview, I tried to study a few historical pieces, and I thought maybe this was the famous squat and very curvy Venus of Willendorf.
How to feel about thrift store finds.
Turns out, I don't know shit about pottery history, and that is why we're all here.
So the figure he's holding is roughly a four-inch tall, rich brown ceramic sculpture of a woman with wide hips, a very deep navel, a smooth head and pendulous breasts.
And how to bond with a potter.
And it's noteworthy because of its age.
What age are we talking?
Remember, fine china is about 2,000 years old.
Ancient Grecian pottery...
about 3,000 years old.
With master potters, artists, history aficionados, and icons of pottery.
So when was this figure made in what is now the Czech Republic?
And that Venus of Willendorf I mistook it for is actually carved out of stone.
So not ceramic at all.
Again, what do I know about historic ceramic figurines?
Sarah Lord Taylor and Graham Taylor.
Not much, which is why I'm making an expert 3,000 miles away talk to me.
Two of them, actually.
You will love it.
How long before you start seeing pots or pinch pots or thrown pots?
When do they think maybe it went from figurines to vessels?
Finally, also, you can enjoy our fifth anniversary episode on wood, which we did about reclaimed lumber.
So figurines came first, and maybe they were made to be beautiful and then tossed in the fire, like you would throw a coin into a well, or maybe like a wedding ring into the ocean.
But then, dang, these clay creations...
like a horror villain.
They only got stronger, forged in fire.
So once your ancestors realized, holy shit, this works, actually, they were like, well, let's start the container store, but with more hair and mud.
So about 19,000 years ago, as far as we know, we start seeing pots and such.
And indigenous people in the Americas have been making clay pots for millennia.
And many first forms involved a big, long clay noodle coiled on top of itself and
to make the sides of the pot and then smoothed over and in some places you can see the impressions left by leaves or mats they were created on in the bottom of the pot but from those first figurines it'll be a while before the potter's wheel like 14 or so thousand years i mean the potter's wheel southern iraq probably about 3000 bc um
Right, just give it a couple thousand years.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, absolutely.
And, you know, you were talking about in Forrest, too, those huge vessels.
know something or if you cut something we edit a lot trust me i couldn't do it without edits um but the first thing i'll have you say is if you could tell me your first and last name and also the pronouns you use just to make sure we say everything right graham taylor he him um sarah lord and she her i forgot it's been a long day thank you so much for talking to me i know it's evening over there um and now y'all are a
I've always wondered, you know, Roman and Greek huge vessels like that.
Why were they pointed at the bottom?
It seems like it would be difficult to set it down.
And this peg he's talking about is that kind of pointed end of the amphora.
So imagine a pitcher, if you will, or imagine a jug, depending on where you are.
And rather than having that flared, wide, flat base, instead, this jug comes to a dull point at the bottom.
And this can be wedged in between the amphoras below it, kind of like stacking chairs in the hull of a ship.
Do you get so excited when you hear of shipwrecks being discovered with amphora?
Of course, always cracking it open to see what's inside is always exciting.
Well, can I ask you some questions from listeners who know that you're coming on?
Father-daughter duo.
Yeah, yeah.
Wonderful.
And before we get to those questions, patrons, we will donate to not one but two charities for this eighth anniversary episode in Graham Selected Cancer Research UK dot org, which funds scientists, doctors and nurses to help beat cancer sooner.
Yeah.
They also provide cancer information to the public.
and they carry out world-class research.
Now for Sarah, we're donating to littlelifts.org.com.
That's a charity she chose that provides the most thoughtfully handpicked gift boxes to people affected by breast cancer.
We are.
Potters and also in the archaeology realm.
So we're sending donations to both of those causes in honor of Graham and Sarah.
Also sending our warmest thoughts and hugs to them both.
And thank you to sponsors of the show for making those donations possible.
Okay, so let's get to questions from patrons via patreon.com slash ologies, which you also can join for as little as a dollar a month.
Also, Patreon just rolled out social media posts via Patreon.
They're called quips.
And so I've had a lot of fun recently making them.
So you can check out patreon.com slash ologies to see what's new there.
Now, patrons Anuya, Joshi, Quinn, Jordan, Anne Hanlon, and New Hampshire Jim asked in Jim's words, what's your favorite firing technique?
Raku, salt, wood, gas, etc.
Well, 23skidoo said, I'd love to know the origin story behind Raku firing.
Okay.
Questions from listeners.
We'll fire them off, if you will.
Oh, Debra Brunner wants to know.
So Raku, which came to the West around the 1950s and is different depending on the era and the continent, but the broad strokes are much less gentler heating processes.
So it's lower temperature, but way less gradual.
The heat is turned up really quickly and pieces are taken out while they're still red hot and glowing.
And then sometimes cradled in this little nest of paper, like in a metal bin.
And that paper instantly catches on fire because it's 1600 degrees Fahrenheit.
And then it results in these unpredictable glaze effects.
And this is a feature, not a bug.
Loved it.
We'll do it again.
We'll do it again.
Well, you mentioned smells.
And Maya Catherine asked, why do glazes smell like farts?
And do they?
Is there sulfur?
They do.
But ceramology, it comes from the Greek, ceramos, for pottery, which was easy.
polished a brit saying grimes i did say we do terrible things to nicely cleaned clay and things we do we do yeah yeah well another person did ask about glaze um a few people wanted to know kieran h i like plants more than people good soup nikki g leona schuster mouse paxton all wanted to know about glazes nikki g said how do glazes work is slip just magic
What is glaze?
So yes, glaze is glass.
if you happen to have a career replicating the origins of ceramics, of course.
Also, side note, we do have a fabulous episode on experimental archaeology, all about something called atlatls.
So teabags are good glaze.
Try it and report back, Potters.
I want to see it.
And, you know, getting back to the cup you were drinking from, of
I'll link it in the show notes.
A few people, Ryan Marlow, Ella Raptor, Jaws-themed swimming, Cynthia B., and Aaron Dewberry, and Aaron's word said, are the cheap plates and bowls from, let's say, the dollar store made by humans or machines?
And if machine, how does a pottery machine work?
What is industrial ceramics?
You use one at the dog park.
You don't even know it.
Your work definitely involves a lot of archaeology.
That's one reason I wanted to talk to you both is because I was really torn between having an episode just about the making of pottery versus the history of it.
Yes, it is called a jigger and jolly, and it was invented in the 1700s.
And essentially, these are plaster molds that you can kind of patty cake a lump of clay onto.
And if it's a convex mold, it's a jigger.
And if it's a concave mold, it's a jolly.
And then these things are spun around and you use the right size wood tool to shape the wet clay to fit the mold and get a uniform size when you're making things like dinnerware.
And it dries and then it's fired and it's just as strong as a throne piece, but it's faster and more reliable in terms of sizing.
And I know Jigger and Jolly sounds like a pair of puppets with like scary old fashioned faces, but it's just a plate mold.
And that's what you do, which is so amazing.
So yes, dry clay pressed so hard that the water gets juiced out of it on a molecular level to conform to a mold.
Wild.
What about the safety of glazes?
Some people asked about, are there some that have lead in them?
I'm sure that they've gotten safer and safer, but can you dispel any myths about unsafe ceramics?
But I understand, Graham, you have been a potter in ceramics for a long time.
And Sarah, you grew up around the studio.
Graham, how did you get started?
Okay, let's get into this.
So there have been a lot of videos where people go to houseware stores and test new stuff for lead and find an alarmingly high percentage of home goods mugs with lead in them.
Although Mercedes was telling me that she just saw one in her algorithm last night and she followed it all the way into this tunnel of sus because the guy testing the housewares and posting some of these videos also owns the company that makes the device he was using for testing.
Um...
And their own legal disclaimer on Amazon, she found out, points out that it's not an EPA approved method.
So you can take that leaded cup with a grain of salt.
But it's not unheard of.
There is a risk.
There have been case reports of families with abnormally high lead and then doctors later discovered that they were using imported traditional ceramics from around the world.
The ones with the highest levels of lead were usually from places like Mexico or Ecuador, Turkey, Morocco, Uzbekistan.
Those have been found to have the highest levels of lead, according to a New York City health report from 2021.
And the report continued that although individuals with elevated blood levels may not look or feel sick, exposure to lead can cause some serious health problems.
Now, in children, lead exposure can cause learning and behavior problems.
In adults, it can increase blood pressure and affect the brain and the kidneys and reproductive organs.
Not only is this an anniversary episode, but it's also a twofer because we got two guests, and they're both equally the best.
Exposure to lead during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage and affect an unborn baby.
So if you are prone to being afraid of lead poisoning, the word from health departments like New York is stay away from using ceramicware labeled for use only as a decorative item.
or that contains a warning label such as, not for food use, may poison food.
Also stay away from using antique ceramic ware or damaged or worn ceramic ware.
And it also cautions against using ceramics that are irregular in shape or purchased from flea markets or street vendors, which sounds like the New York City Health Department is just being like, don't use sketch pottery.
But that also seems like very highly subjective.
Now, one thing that you should not do is drink out of a decorative vase for several months, as I did before learning that this could poison me, no matter how cute it felt.
Now, from poison to pop culture.
Yeah, Sarah and Graham have consulted for the great pottery throwdown.
Yes, they think things get dramatized and set up for failure on TV.
But that's not what I want to talk about.
Annie Pepper wanted to know, as did Lee L. and Leo Shang, feelings on the movie Ghost.
I hope.
Now just let the clay slide between your fingers.
On the absolutely iconic pottery doings of Demi Moore.
Oh, no.
Yeah.
Not ideal.
Was she as handsome as Patrick Swayze?
You'd have to be.
I do think it's almost impossible to throw a pot without thinking of that scene.
Yeah.
At least for a novice potter who their only frame of reference really is watching Demi Morty that.
But I threw a pot recently and I thought about for a moment Demi Moore and I thought, listen, I'm just trying to make a pot here.
I'm not trying to be sexy.
This is not a sexy procedure.
how they figure that out?
So the finer the clay, the harder it is to manage the escaping water vapor.
Now, rough clays like those with grog or recycled mashed up ceramics, though, are harder to mess up when you're firing.
And this grog, by the way, I know what you're thinking because I was thinking it too.
It's not to be confused with the hot grog, boozy rum and water drink, which was named after an admiral who wanted his sailors to be less drunk.
So he's like, let's add a little water to that.
And he wore a cloak made of grogrim, which is why they called him grog.
And grogrim is a stiff, waxed wool fabric, apparently.
And I'm imagining this guy with like a silhouette like Darth Vader, but a reputation even worse.
But yeah, grog in pottery terms is crushed up old stuff mixed with the new clay.
Oh, yes.
Middens, side note, are trash dumps.
Or, in wildlife ecology, a midden also refers to a dung heap used as a communal latrine by hippos and rhinos.
Well, I've seen some of your reproductions of phallic works in Roman times.
And we even had a listener ask about, you know, that ancient Romans and Greeks really love to make phalluses out of clay.
Okay, one more listener, two more listener questions, courtesy of Z. Renee Bay, first-time question asker, who said,
But let's go down.
Let's go down a little further.
Ty Sundquist asked, I know that ancient Romans and Greeks really loved to make phalluses out of clay.
Was the purpose for a good laugh or for ritual or for sex or all of the above?
That wouldn't have been an obscenity necessarily at the time.
It was like a wishbone or something, like a horseshoe over the door.
come on in have a ball yeah uh looking at reproductions i did see the one with the chicken feet and i was like that's not something you see every day and that is just adorable it's like a little cartoon character well last questions i always ask are the hardest parts of what you do but um is there something that is very difficult about working with clay is clay will we run out of clay does that keep you up at night is there something that that's really tough about the job
I think for both of us, it's the admin.
So clay is considered a renewable resource because new clays are always being made from these geological processes.
But if we go really hard with it, we could outpace it.
But in general, the worry is low.
Allie Ward, let's ruin a manicure in the best way possible.
It's a parent-child duo of accomplished ceramic artists.
Well, what about your favorite pieces of pottery or ceramics?
Do each of you have like a favorite piece that you just is inspiring or that you just you love a lot?
So we'll link these on our website, of course, but they resemble kind of the top of a really ornate Corinthian column in the way that the flames lick upward and outward.
They look so complex and modern, but they're 5,000 years old.
Imagine a kind of terracotta Barbie doll, but with actual human woman proportions and a little extra detail.
And I love all of that.
This has just been so inspiring.
I have a pottery studio nearby.
And when I went to go throw a pot a couple of weeks ago, I was like, I will be back.
This was great fun.
Thank you guys for the work that you're doing.
You're just, you're beyond delightful.
You're criminally delightful.
You're too charming.
Thank you.
So ask learned people absurdist questions, because how are you supposed to know stuff without admitting that you don't know it?
So thank you so much to the whole family of Potted History, Graham, Sarah, Claire, and Linda, for all of your hard work and your humor and your insight and talent.
This was a blast.
You're a gift to all of us.
Now I raise my ceramic tankard to you.
Now, to learn more about their work, you can see Potted History on YouTube, which is excellent.
You can check out their website and their social handles, which we'll link right at the top of the show notes.
A ton of links and studies will be up at allyward.com slash ologies slash ceramology, including links to Little Lifts and Cancer Research UK.
Okay, Ologites, you're all over the globe.
We are at ologies on Instagram and Blue Sky.
I'm at allyward on both.
We have shorter, kid-friendly versions of Ologies in their own separate podcast feed you can subscribe to.
Wherever you get podcasts, that show is called Smologies, S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S.
But yes, as an American, I did not know that pitchers were called jugs by the rest of the English speaking world.
We also have shirts and industrial-made mugs and stickers and totes at OlogiesMerch.com.
You can check out our Patreon at patreon.com slash ologies, including new quips that started this week.
Erin Talbert manages the Ologies podcast Facebook group.
Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts.
Kelly R. Dwyer does the website.
Noelle Dilworth is scheduling producer.
Susan Hale managing directs the whole shebang and helped out on research this week.
Jake Chafee has feet to the fire every week, putting this all together sonically and only gets stronger in that fire.
Lead editor and additional research is done by the archaeological archetype lead editor, Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio.
Nick Thorburn made the theme music and if you stick around until the end of the episode, then you have a lot in common with a sinus infection that has been plaguing me like a poltergeist for over two weeks.
But I will tell you another secret and that's that while I worked on this episode, I need someone to know.
I need to share this burden with someone.
I was researching, I'm making my notes, I'm watching videos, all while having dozens of ants crawling all over me and biting me.
Honestly, when someone says jugs around me, it's usually not even about a vessel of any sort.
My little shed office, which is heaven on earth, also has some invasive roommates.
And there is nothing like the paranoia that you are covered in bugs, only to look down every 30 or so seconds in your workday and see that, yes, you have another bug on you.
There are worse things.
And at least I had my tea by my side, but I would not rate it as the best working experience.
Loved the episode though, and happy eighth anniversary to us.
Now, another word we don't use enough, ewer, which is like a vase.
or vase-shaped jug or pitcher in America, usually quite fancy.
And apparently, if you look up Ewer, the most prominent example will be this tall, ornate silver affair with spirals and these floral motifs.
Plus, there is another sibling who helps run the business, and there's Jess in the studio, although they're not on this interview.
And it's the trophy for the international racing competition with yachts from all over the world.
which is called the America's Cup, even though America may not even be competing.
Also, branding-wise, an America's Cup would just be called a pitcher, but no one who owns a yacht wants to compete for the pitcher, unless perhaps it's pitcher of beer, which is the only time the Brits call their jugs a pitcher.
But let's get back to the clay at hand.
But many of you are freaking out, freaking out, wigging, just seeing their names in the title.
But if you don't know their work, they run the studio Potted History, as well as its educational and very cool YouTube channel.
And I know Claire is also in midwifery and does more of the tech and admin, but Sarah, did you feel like when you first started working with Clay, did it feel familiar to you or did you feel like there was a learning curve to getting the hang of it?
And for decades, they've been making museum-quality replicas of these ancient ceramics,
That's such a good point.
I feel like most of history that we're taught does focus on monarchies, wealth, or killing, and that's such a great point.
I'm wondering, too, we're talking about ceramics and throwing and pots, and this is a very stupid question, but that's what I'm here for.
for institutions and museums and heritage sites and private collectors and TV.
We'll say not smart.
But like, what is the difference between pottery and ceramics and porcelain?
It's Ology's eighth year this week, eighth anniversary rather.
What are they different clays?
Are they different techniques?
What is it?
Yes, glass is a ceramic.
And according to Chapter 3 of the textbook, Biomaterials, Artificial Origins, and Tissue Engineering, a ceramic is something hard that's inorganic, not metal, and molded and set at a high temperature.
And they can be crystalline or not.
Now, major characteristics of ceramics are their high hardness, their insulating properties of heat and electricity, and corrosion resistance.
And on top of that, they are very pro-accessibility, and they've run workshops on ancient craftsmanship for universities and laypeople alike, and they give advice for research projects.
Also, they're brittle and they fracture.
Brick is a ceramic.
Cement is a ceramic.
A pumpkin's a berry.
I beg your pardon?
They are so into the craft and the history of pottery, there was no one else I would have rather sat down with via a video chat from Northumberland, England.
So at 1300 degrees Celsius, or nearly 2400 degrees Fahrenheit, those bonds really start to fuse.
And yeah, when people say, let's use the good China, dear, that is China with a lowercase c. Even though this type of pottery was developed a few thousand years ago in China,
It's also called porcelain, and that's from the French word for a type of shell due to this glassification and this translucent property owing to the really tiny or fine particle clay, which is called kaolin, K-A-O-L-I-N.
Now, kaolin occurs in nature when minerals like feldspar decompose out of granite, and if you are horny for rock info...
Love them.
And before we get to it, just a quick thanks to all the potters and the non-potters via patreon.com slash ologies who submitted questions for this episode.
We have a great geology two-parter that we'll link for you.
To make fine china, you need this kaolin and some minerals like the soft stone alabaster, which was later swapped out for feldspar because you could fire it at lower temperatures.
Now, other things you could add to this fine white clay kaolin are bones, straight-up ground-up bones that have been set on fire and then mashed around.
Some bone china...
contains nearly half ground-up bone.
And why was this?
Oh, well, one porcelain maker had a shop right near a bunch of slaughterhouses and was like, holy smokes, boy howdy, why not add some frickin' bone to this stuff?
Looks great.
What do we call it?
Bone China?
No notes.
Moving on.
Love it.
Oh, hey, it's a cough drop in your purse that you don't want to unwrap, but you desperately want to unwrap.
And of course, also for zero dollars, you can support ologies by leaving a review, which keeps us up in the charts.
And does that also have anything to do just with systemic factors, like who has access to care and who is getting seen by doctors, who's getting listened to?
And for anyone living with MS, where is the fatigue coming from?
And as proof that I do read all of them, I pick one each week.
Well, for people who don't have MS, Aaron helps visualize what it's like to be in their shoes.
And the verdict is it's not fun.
And this one is from RJ LeCount, who wrote, nerds unite, love this show so much.
And the merch is an absolute nerd magnet.
They wore their ology shirt when they were at the hospital all day and got more compliments from medical staff than they have on anything they've worn, they wrote.
Which is such a good point.
I think when we talk about chronically ill people and disabled folks who have what's called invisible illness, they're wiggling their figure, but they can't do it for longer.
And no one understands exactly what it's taking for them.
They might not understand.
My mom probably doesn't understand exactly how much brain power she's using to get through her day.
So RJ LeCount, thank you for repping us.
Okay, but one person's tired is not the same tired as MS tired.
Also, hospitals, great place to meet other ologytes.
Imagine what your brain and body would feel like if you tried pulling back-to-back all-nighters and then went to work, Aaron says.
And a lot of people don't really get what it is.
Can't attest.
10 out of 10.
That's a good one.
What about things like diagnosis and symptoms?
Also, if you have little ones and you're looking for any Classroom Safe versions of Ologies, we release them every week for free in their own feed.
Because obviously, the more ahead of it you get, the better treatment you get, the more knowledge you get.
Amen.
Your life's going to be better.
But a lot of times, I know with my mom, my mom had something vague going on.
Yeah.
Didn't know what it was.
My mom called it this thing for a good six years before she was diagnosed.
And then even then, she still called it this thing.
But people who have MS, I feel like you ask them about the illness, sucks.
Ask them about the diagnosis and they will go off.
It's called Smologies, S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S.
You can find anywhere you get podcasts, Classroom Safe, G-Rated.
And a neurologic exam is usually just conducted in the doctor's office, and it's a series of questions to assess mental status.
Maybe they'll have you repeat a sentence.
They'll ask if you know the date and time.
They'll check pupils and reflexes.
They may have you walk in a line or touch your nose with your fingertips.
It's also linked in the show notes.
And if this sounds like something that a cop might perform on the side of the highway, well, they do share commonalities.
Except the officer might not also take your blood pressure or your insurance.
And thanks, of course, to sponsors of the show who make it possible to donate to a cause of the ologists choosing each week.
So the neuro exam, it's pretty analog, pretty basic, and it does miss stuff.
Hell yes, it misses some stuff.
And a spinal tap, also called a lumbar puncture, it involves just siphoning just a wee bit of cerebral spinal fluid out from between your vertebrae, just kind of like a little sip of maple syrup.
Okay, onward.
And then pathologists will check it out for increased antibodies or even fragments of nerve cells,
from where the insulating sheaths have been frayed by one's own overzealous and kind of like lost immune cells.
Just to get legal about it for a sec, this podcast is not intended to treat or diagnose and is for informational purposes only because this is a podcast and it is not your doctor.
But still about 10% of folks with MS can have normal looking cerebral spinal fluid.
Now, since we've recorded this, something exciting has happened.
And Aaron sent me a voice note about what's called an MS disease activity test.
This one's on multiple sclerosis.
So yeah, pretty darn exciting.
And octavebio.com has more info on that test.
Now, what else will a doctor do if you present with things like tingling and numbness and vision problems or balance issues or fatigue and other MS symptoms?
So let's hear all about how nerve tissue works, how your spinal cord is like a holiday decoration, the five strategies anyone can use to feel better, novel testing methods for MS, public figures who are raising awareness about MS, some past, some future,
Nearly everyone I've met with MS seems to have had a really arduous experience
and frustrating journey to their diagnosis.
Without advanced ways of diagnosing, there's just a lot of stones to turn over.
And oftentimes, they're sent down the wrong path.
And for people who, let's say,
I have a friend who has a tough job and has anxiety and she's gone through periods where her hands get numb.
Yeah.
A doctor said that's a symptom of your anxiety.
That's a symptom of stress.
Great.
So let's say that you have something like that.
And also if you live in America and MRI could bankrupt you.
Yep.
What do you do?
Yeah.
What do you do if you're like, is this just my shoe?
I have shitty shoes or is this a first attack of MS?
So if you like to understand how your body routes messages to itself, this is also a great one to get a grasp on that.
Yeah.
So Aaron has what he calls a five for five framework to help slow the progression of MS.
And we'll mention them again in more detail, but a quick overview.
Don't smoke, do exercise, do eat clean and take vitamin D if you're low.
Take your disease modifying therapy from regular checkups and annual MRIs to medications and practice mindfulness.
Now we're going to chat more about those, but let's start with the meds.
And what kinds of drugs are these?
Are these like the Ocrevus, the Ampira, like the Gabapent, like which of them?
and some tips for loved ones and people who have multiple sclerosis with neurologist, MS expert, and neuropathoimmunologist, Dr. Erin Foster.
And this drug, the brand name is Ocrevus, is an immunosuppressant that essentially tells your immune system in hyperdrive to just cool its jets and to stop beating up on your central nervous system so much.
But it's not without its own risks.
So when you take the immune system down too low, you might have increased risks for infections and sometimes of cancers.
Other side effects can include things like rashes and nausea and heart rate fluctuations and more.
And my family was really excited about this medication because it could be used on primary progressive MS.
But unfortunately, my mom did try it and her side effects were too severe to continue.
Now, another no-go we have learned over the years, things like saunas, no more sunbathing,
Desert excursions, long sleeves in July.
What about heat?
Why does heat make MS so much worse?
Because that is something that unless you know someone with MS, you probably don't know that.
But yeah, and my family dreads the summer or dreads overheated summer.
thing I'm going to have you do is if you could say your first and last name and tell me what pronouns you use.
And if you're ever involved in the most challenging game of trivia ever, I hope it helps you to know that this is called Uthoff's phenomenon.
After a late 1800s German ophthalmologist who noticed vision challenges when patients who had MS got overheated.
And if you're like, how long have we, the royal we, known about MS?
Well, this is news to me.
But a French neurologist named Jean-Martin Charcot said,
identified and researched several neurological disorders, contributing to the science of Parkinson's and Tourette's syndrome and identifying MS in 1868.
He also dove right into the condition of what was called hysteria, named after the uterus, because at the time it was thought that only women could be crazy like that.
Dr. Boster, of course, as the internet knows you.
Now, using hypnosis, Charcot would bring out states of agitation and emotionality in patients and most famously photographed the facial expressions of this local mental asylum patient named Louise Augustine Gliese.
who had been a survivor of childhood abuse and was diagnosed with hysteria.
And when Louise was like, hey doc, let's not to the photographs anymore.
She was sent to solitary confinement, but then she later escaped dressed in a suit looking like a dapper gent.
She got out,
She disappeared into the freedom of the night.
She was never seen again.
But yeah, Charcot did do some groundbreaking research in neurology that still holds up today, but he also had a little bit of a sketch reputation, and he earned the nickname the Napoleon of the neuroses.
There you go.
But as a neurologist, he did identify MS in 1868, which was good.
And then Uthoff identified this phenomenon of stay out of the heat, MS friends.
I feel like in terms of people doing outreaching communication about multiple sclerosis, I feel like
Yeah.
And we're talking to a kinesiologist about staying active regularly.
with MS and how much those therapies can help.
Because I know that it's like to thread that needle of staying active and keeping your muscles strong, but also not overexerting yourself and not doing something that can put you in the path of a fall, which can be devastating.
I don't see many people communicating the way that you do so thoroughly and so friendly for patients.
Correct.
Well stated.
I was fortunate enough to talk to Dr. Brett Fling, who is a Colorado State University researcher and a kinesiologist who has a lab dedicated to understanding and helping folks with MS who have gait issues.
Now, Brett's mother has had MS for decades, and as someone who studied physical activity and disease progression, he had some expert insight into movement.
So here's a little bit of that conversation with Dr. Brett Fling.
So this topic is close to my family as my mom, your fancy Nancy, who originated the categories insomnia buster that we talked about in the somnology episodes on sleep.
It's really lovely to see.
I've sent my mom so many of your videos.
My mom knows of your work.
She has a mess.
Thank you.
So yeah.
Exercise is medicine, and it's printed on their courtyard right outside of his lab's building.
Did you always want to communicate what you were doing or did you just want a doctor?
Exercise is medicine.
So it's a good thing to remember.
Now back to Dr. Boster, who echoes that.
When did you decide?
Because being a doctor is enough of a job.
Right.
And also, do you give any advice to your patients on staying safe so that they don't have a fall?
Oh, and I have so many more questions.
Can I ask listener questions that were submitted?
And before we get to your questions, my dear patrons, we will donate to a cause of Aaron's choice, and he directed it toward msviewsandnews.org, which is a grassroots nonprofit.
It was founded by Stuart Schlossman, who was diagnosed with MS himself.
And Stuart and the folks at this nationally-based patient advocacy organization provide educational programs and resources to empower and enhance the quality of life for the MS community, including those in rural areas.
So go to msviewsandnews.org.
to share experiences, to gather information, and to find their monthly MS Beacon newsletter.
You can also get a copy of their comprehensive Empower MS guide.
So again, a donation went to msnewsandviews.org.
So thanks, Erin, for the heads up about them.
And thank you to sponsors for making it possible to donate to a cause every week.
Okay, let us saunter into the mailbag with questions submitted via patreon.com slash ologies.
A lot of people wanted to know about correlation with other autoimmune diseases like Buddy freaking Guyerson, Connie Connie Bobani, Angie Yanks, Adam Foote, and Chandler Witherington.
In Buddy's words, as someone who has both diabetes and MS, is it common for MS to show up in people with other autoimmune conditions?
Connie Connie Bobani declares autoimmune diseases are a bitch, and I agree with Connie.
So yeah, do they tend to come in clusters?
Wow.
And Lily Hart also says that two people in their life with MS...
One has had MS mistaken for Lyme.
Are there triggers with other infections?
Are we seeing more MS after massive amounts of infection from COVID?
Or do you ever, yeah.
And a 2020 study titled Vaccination in Multiple Sclerosis Challenging Practices Review in the journal Experimental and Therapeutic Practices notes that vaccination is proven to be one of the most effective means to prevent infections, but is still surrounded by controversy in the general populations as well as in the MS group.
And vaccines are generally considered safe for MS patients, it reports.
And the exceptions from this, which turn into contraindications, are a medical history of allergic reactions to one of the vaccine components and immunosuppressed patients in the particular case of live vaccines.
So there are several different types of vaccines and live attenuated rather than inactive or mRNA vaccines.
The live attenuated do have live virus in them, though they're weakened, and they're not recommended for folks with MS.
And those vaccines that have live attenuated virus could include measles and mumps and chickenpox and yellow fever.
But yeah, controversial, still controversial.
as are a lot of things that you put in your body, such as lunch.
Now patron Deborah Pekin asked, what do you say about a gluten-free or other diet which has been said to benefit MS?
And this is also asked by...
Allegra Favilla wanted to know if there is any scientific proof of any special diet helping MS.
And my question really spawns from the bevy of pseudoscience and pseudo-health advice that people with chronic illnesses like me are given every day, they say.
And they've been told to change their diet, eat only meat, eat vegan, no nightshades, no sugar.
Unfortunately...
Yeah, folks, diet does have an effect on how we're feeling regardless of MS.
And I'm speaking to a me right now.
And for more on this, you can see the 2019 study, an evidence-based look at the effects of diet on health, which begins by saying that cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the United States.
And additionally, cancer and mood disorders both have significant impacts on morbidity and mortality.
And what we eat, it says, may allow us to powerfully intervene on these, the largest of health issues affecting our country.
But these papers are often not as exciting in the headlines as new research about pharma breakthroughs.
And you mentioned how important dehydration is in terms of symptoms, but also we know that the down there's and bladder can be really difficult.
And Becky Grady says, I have MS.
Is there any viable treatment for bladder control issues?
And yeah, why is that a symptom to begin with?
And how do you encourage patients to make sure that they are hydrated when
people without MS have a hard time hydrating because they have to pee.
Aha.
You know, I wanted to ask this about biological sex and assigned sex at birth and rates of MS.
And a few people, Catherine Lilly Hart, Jacqueline Church, and Amanda Butler, who has been an MS patient of 15 years, wanted to know, is it true that MS is more common in women than men?
If so, why?
Catherine wanted to know, why is it more common in women but more deadly in men?
Or is that flim flam?
And Amanda, an MS patient, says, where is research at for pregnancy hormones and MS?
They don't plan to have kids, but if we can use whatever helps get pregnant people's symptoms to remit, they're all in.
So where are hormones in all this?
Y'all love her.
Yeah.
And we did an episode on ADHD and why so many women and people assigned female at birth
who go through perimenopause suddenly have these acute ADHD symptoms because without a lot of estrogen, you don't have the molecules you need to go through executive function.
And so you're just like, why am I can't?
So yeah, I think that that's all so super interesting.
And Jess Lynn and Lisa Nahuyas had great questions about research.
Well, Jess's question was, there's been some research looking into the gut-brain axis and MS.
Do you think it could be possible to use a gut microbiome as a non-invasive early detection method?
What's the research on that right now?
Dr. Boster started uploading videos to YouTube when he realized that patients, the ones in his care or people he would never even meet, could learn more and educate their loved ones or use the video for reference later.
You love that.
Love it.
I can't wait for those, my husband with IBS.
I'm like, seriously.
It's harder to get your poo accepted at a bank for that than it is to get into Harvard.
You have to have better poo than a brain to get into Harvard.
Now, a 2021 study called Combination of Probiotics and Natural Compounds to Treat Multiple Sclerosis via Warburg Effect, published in the Advances Pharmaceutical Bulletin, states that the Warburg Effect, which is a glycolysis action involved with the demyelination mechanism...
It intensifies the activation of immune cells in the central nervous system, and it provokes the inflammation process of the myelin sheath.
Because in a doctor's office, it can be information overload.
And the infiltration of a bunch of immune cells rushing in can be inhibited by the therapy of probiotics and prebiotics.
So my mom was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis over 20 years ago.
And in this review, they recommend that the idea of that combinational therapy can do miracles in the treatment of MS in the future.
Miracles.
It's a strong word.
Calm down.
But it's promising.
Yes.
And it continues it lactobacillus, bifidobacterium and streptococcus in MS patients switches their gut microbiota to modulate that anti-inflammatory immune response.
But it does concede that more research is needed.
Now, one of the best ways to boost the microbiome, we asked an expert, is a healthy diet with lots of whole foods and veggies.
We have a whole episode on the gut biome that we'll link for you.
But the TLDR is that your brain and your simmering intestines are good friends.
Now, a few of you had questions about neuroanatomy.
And Jean Comstock, first-time question asker, and Carly V wanted to know, in Jean's words, I usually read that demyelination from MS occurs primarily or only in the CNS.
How often do we see the myelin sheaths damaged in the peripheral?
What's eating that myelin?
And is there any way to just get it back?
Yeah.
So Aaron explained to me that this was the 2020 trials of an antibody treatment called Antilingo-1, which inhibited lingo, leading to myelin repair and test animals with a condition similar to MS.
But unfortunately, it was not successful in further trials.
But right now, this very moment, we're sitting here listening to this.
Maybe we're washing dishes, washing the car.
Maybe we're petting a goat.
And scientists are shown up for work.
They're walking in a building with a thermos full of coffee.
They're
They're making notes over a sandwich at lunch.
They're applying for grants after the kids go to bed, trying to figure out how to get that myelin back around the neurons of folks with MS.
What about, we've seen like in Selma Blair's case, she was public about going through essentially like a chemo to destroy her immune system and build it back up.
And our family has had to go from like, what is this to how can I seek out the world's foremost expert on this and ask all of our questions on behalf of people with MS.
How many people have MS?
Are we seeing any success with that?
It doesn't seem like it was a cure-all, a magic cure-all, but how much research is going on in that?
Because my mom's had it for... She got diagnosed 20 years ago, but she had it for years before that without the doctors knowing what it was.
And now in the four or so years since Selma Blair's transplant of her own cells, she has said that she has experienced a relapse and then went on a medication called Mavenclad for relapsing remitting MS, as well as some twice monthly immunoglobulin transfusions.
So some neurologists caution not to hang too much hope on her very public experience as what she calls a remission in her symptoms could be due to a variety of therapeutic factors.
And the so-called rebooting of the immune system via chemo and the transplant is described as a grueling process with no guarantees.
Right, right.
And in therapies to help manage symptoms, Gene Kelly wanted to broach the topic of ganja.
They had a friend who used marijuana medically for her MS and said it helped relieve a lot of her symptoms day to day more than any medication she'd been prescribed.
Has there been any research into treating MS with marijuana?
If so, is it supported?
Does it work?
Do we know why it works?
Wow, what?
Please enjoy the 2022 paper in the journal Life titled The Efficacy of Cannabis on Multiple Sclerosis-Related Symptoms, which reports that oral cannabis is mainly used for treating patients with MS and has positive effects on treating the most common symptoms of MS, such as pain and spasticity.
And the International Journal of MS Care published the study Multiple Sclerosis and Use of Medical Cannabis, a Retrospective Review of a Neurology Outpatient Population.
which stated that patients experienced extensive MS symptom improvement after initiation of medical cannabis with alleviation of pain reported by 72% of patients and spasticity reduction by 48% of patients and improvement in sleep in 40% of patients.
So mom, are you listening?
Perhaps we'll get you some.
Now, which is better for pain, the CBD or the THC in marijuana?
Researchers seem to agree that THC has a larger effect on pain reception and CBD, which is the non-psychoactive compound, can help pain at the source.
There was one 2024 study titled Cannabidiol and Brain Function, Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology, and it reported that the endocannabinoid system in our bodies controls most bodily functions, including sleep, temperature, pain reception, inflammatory and immune responses, learning and memory, processing emotions, and eating, making it the subject of most drug development research.
And the study stated that although the molecular pathways and mechanisms through which CBD acts have not been fully established yet, they don't totally know what's going on, it suggested that CBD from marijuana can directly interact with different receptor-dependent and independent mechanisms, which contribute to different therapeutic applications.
So don't know how it works, but it works.
And your doctor probably knows that.
So go ahead and ask.
And now that you can go to a dispensary and look at a display case and say, I'd like 2.5 milligrams of cannabinoids versus this much THC, what kind of dosages are you seeing patients using?
Oh, got it.
And Selma Blair, Christina Applegate, people that our generation, maybe Gen Xers, boomers grew up with now are seeing people that they watched as teenagers.
who are diagnosed.
I want to get high.
Do you have any advice in general for people who have autoimmune disease or anything that you feel like you wish, if you could get on a soapbox, you wish people with autoimmune conditions knew or something they could do to feel better or things that they could ask their doctors?
Annette Funicello was a Mouseketeer and a star of 1960s beach party movies.
And we also have a dolerology episode with Dr. Rachel Zoffness, which is all about factors that affect how we perceive pain levels from the biological to the psycho and the social causes of how we perceive pain.
And we're going to link it in the show notes along with another great episode with Jules Hotz called Salyutinology about why human beings need each other and leisure activities for the health of their brains and bodies.
They're both fascinating episodes.
And
She kept her MS diagnosis private for years until rumors swirled that her balance issues were due to alcoholism.
And I know that you mentioned mindfulness is one of the five.
Do you want to list those out so that we have them kind of in a condensed version?
That
That's so smart because there's so many of us who are like, oh, I have to do exercise as a punishment for eating a brownie or I can only exercise when I make sure I take care of everyone else in the house and everything on my to-do list is done.
Then I can take some time to go for a walk.
So she was like, no, jerks, I have MS.
And she later established the Annette Funicello Fund for Neurological Disorders.
But this was...
40 years ago.
And what's what exactly is the DMT?
Allie Ward with an episode that's close to my heart.
So that's what we did here.
I thought you meant like this stuff where you see little shiny aliens, like you smoke it on the beach.
Oh, my bad.
So we have a psychedelics episode all about the therapeutic effects of hallucinogens with a highly respected researcher, Dr. Charles Grobe of UCLA.
But DMT, aka dimethyltryptamine, occurs naturally in plants and animals, including you, and taking it can produce a short hallucinogenic experience.
And this famed author and ethnobotanist and psychedelics advocate,
Terrence McKenna described these commonly seen benevolent beings that come chill out on a DMT trip as, quote, self-transforming machine elves.
Apparently, a lot of people see them.
I have not done it.
Now, when Aaron mentioned staying faithful to your DMT, I was like, I'm sorry, pardon.
But it turns out that he meant disease-modifying therapies like checkups and medicines.
Now, one new DMT that has emerged since this recording, well, I'm just going to let Aaron tell you via this voice note.
So this expert did their undergrad at Oberlin College, got an MD at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, and then hopped over to the University of Michigan for their resident and internship programs before another two-year fellowship.
And now that we know about how many people have it, okay, we know what it is, but how do you describe it to people who may be first diagnosed, they don't know what it is, or someone who asks you what you specialize in?
And what about, you know, you've been studying this for a long time.
You've wanted to do this since you were 12.
And Kayla C., Lisa Nahuis wanted to know, in Lisa's words, how close is research getting to a cure or what are the next steps taken to get there?
How encouraged are you?
A B and T cell, side note, I had never heard of this.
Turns out it's medical lingo for B cells and T cells, which are both lymphocytes and major players in your immune system.
Something obviously a lot about your job probably sucks, but I always ask this at the end.
What's the hardest part about your job?
What sucks?
What advice do you give someone who's newly diagnosed who has questions about, well, is this going to kill me and how much longer do I have?
How about accommodations that people might need?
Any advice on how to advocate for yourself if you do need accommodations?
And ask someone with MS, such as Fancy Nancy, about bright fluorescent lights in big stores and just the hurricane of sounds and people and stimuli.
And it's way easier to understand why grocery delivery can be a medical need.
And I wandered into one forum for folks with MS and I saw the comment, hell will be lit with fluorescent lights.
And some folks there even recommended pink or amber tinted sunglasses indoors or looking for ones labeled for migraine sufferers.
So you can look cool and you can feel better.
Now, what about, because I know that you're so passionate about your work, obviously, but what do you love?
What keeps you going?
What's your favorite part of your job?
I'm sure your family is so proud.
They must.
Just what a mensch.
So ask passionate people some impassioned questions and then you can pass on the knowledge.
And you can enjoy way more of Dr. Boster on his YouTube channel, Aaron Boster, MD, which we'll link in the show notes alongside his charity of choice.
alongside his charity of choice, which is MS Views and News.
And there are many more links to studies and resources that we posted at aliward.com slash ologies slash neuropathoimmunology, which we will link in the show notes so you don't have to write that down while you're driving or sculpting.
Whatever you are doing.
Now, we are at Ologies on Instagram and Blue Sky.
We also have shorter kid-friendly episodes called Smologies, S-M-O-L-O-G-I-E-S.
And you can subscribe to those as your summer road trips turn into some autumn carpools or I guess the opposite for all of our friends on the other side of the equator.
Smologies are linked in the show notes.
They're available for free wherever you get podcasts.
We have Ologies merch at ologiesmerch.com.
T-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, mugs await you.
Thank you to Aaron Talbert for admitting the Ologies podcast Facebook group.
Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts.
Noelle Dilworth is our scheduling producer.
Susan Hale is our managing director and editors.
And this was called childhood or juvenile diabetes because the onset and the diagnoses of this autoimmune condition tends to happen early in life.
Jake Chafee.
and lead editor at Mercedes Maitland to keep everything together audio-wise.
This one is dedicated, of course, to your grandma pod, Nancy, a.k.a.
Fancy Nancy, my mom, and also to her MS group that have been such wonderful friends to her and our family over the years.
Nick Thorburn made the music, and if you stick around to the end of the episode, I tell you a secret, and this week it's that I'm still sick and I don't like it, and I want so badly to take Dayquil, and I read and experienced a few years ago that Dayquil...
if you have anxiety can make your anxiety much worse.
So all day I've been like, do I take the DayQuil and maybe feel like I've had 17 cups of espresso or do I just keep breathing through my mouth?
And I've chosen to breathe through my mouth.
And we got this episode up anyway, and I'm very glad.
So mom, if you're listening, I think you're listening to the end.
Love you.
And thank you everyone for listening and pass this on to anyone you know who has been affected by MS or has someone in their life who has it.
Okay.
Bye-bye.
But we now call it type 1 or you can call it TD1 if you're cool.
You can check out our two-part diabetology episode with self-described diabetic diabetologist, Dr. Mike Natter.
Oh, we also have a long COVID two-parter with Dr. Wes Ely, and we'll link those for you in the show notes.
But yeah, lots of ways to have an autoimmune issue.
And they are a board-certified neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis and founded the Boster Center for MS.
And so with MS, there are said to be different subtypes.
There's relapsing-remitting, which means it can come and go in severity or episodes.
There's primary progressive, which means kind of a stable worsening of symptoms and lesions.
And secondary progressive can relapse and remit, but gradually does worsen.
And these classifications have changed over the years since my mom was diagnosed, which gets confusing.
But my family always kept an eye out because we would hear that there were different clinical trials for different types or certain medications were only recommended for, say, relapsing-remitting.
And my mom has primary progressive.
Oh, okay.
They've been involved with a ton of clinical trials.
They've had so many papers published and also does awesome outreach to the public and people with MS via their YouTube channel, which has nearly 100,000 subscribers.
What about the etiology?
You mentioned like your body, your immune system gets overactive.
It starts attacking neurological tissue.
And the multiple and multiple sclerosis, can you talk a little bit about what that means?
And there's a chance that you or someone you love may have been affected by it.
They're pretty much the GOAT when it comes to MS.
So we're going to talk to them in a moment.
Okay.
So it's like mono, you're out of here.
I got you.
Yeah.
And I had mono that landed me in the hospital.
But first, thank you to all the listeners who are signed up at patreon.com slash ologies who support the show for a dollar or more a month and also submit their questions for episodes.
Well, you know, I'm wondering too, because you mentioned Richard Pryor, I'm thinking Montel Williams, obviously it's not just people of European descent, but if you're genetically historically have evolved to handle high amounts of UV radiation and then say your family gets stolen and moved to a different continent and you live in, you know, Michigan or something, do those levels of vitamin D not being really on par with what your evolution has been like?
Thanks to everyone wearing ologies merch from ologiesmerch.com.
Like, does that have any correlation?
Oh, hey, it's still your ex-boyfriend who pretended he didn't know how to wash the cast iron, right?
So over half of the deaths from Hurricane Rita were people found in their vehicles.
And dozens more were nursing home patients who perished in a bus fire related to the excessive heat and their onboard oxygen tanks.
Which is awful.
Now, the hurricane passed, Katrina passed, but the catastrophic loss of life was due to over 50 breaches of these poorly constructed levees along the canals of the city.
And these breaches hit lower income areas like the Lower Ninth Ward and St.
Bernard's Parish the worst.
And in a 2017 article titled, Hurricanes Hit the Poor the Hardest,"
by a policy nonprofit, Institute Brookings, explains that lower income Americans are more likely to live in neighborhoods or buildings more susceptible to storm shocks and substandard infrastructure in affordable housing units pose greater threats to survival.
Cuisine, maybe you're me from another dimension.
They're built like shit.
essentially.
And evacuation without transportation or even unexpected fuel and supply costs can mean the difference between life and death.
And that was the case in Katrina.
And this weekend, I watched the five-part documentary, Hurricane Katrina, A Race Against Time.
It was directed by Tracy A. Curry.
It was executive produced by Sinners and Black Panther director Ryan Coogler.
This is Ologies.
Wouldn't that be nice?
And this documentary details the timeline of the storm with all this old footage.
But it also illuminates that Katrina's true horror is this systemic neglect.
Okay, if you need 400 or more
to protect vulnerable people.
And it is impossible to ingest this series or reflect on Katrina without tasting everything that came before and has come after that storm.
And I knew that the levee breaks hit minority and poor communities the hardest.
But I watched all five parts of this documentary until three in the morning, all in one sitting.
Ologies episodes, we got them.
And you're just left wondering, like, why the fuck didn't more people do something?
How could they let people suffer and die in broad daylight like that?
Where was the drinking water?
Where were the boats and the buses and the safety?
How did anyone get away with this?
Just go to ologies.com.
How could people far away have helped more?
And how could they call people in their own city refugees?
And one effect of this documentary, it's on Hulu, is that Katrina's 20th anniversary lines up side by side to today's families torn apart by ICE agents.
They're all neatly sorted into topics.
A textbook genocide in Gaza, LGBTQ plus people stripped of rights and dignity, even military pensions, reproductive rights blocked, voter disenfranchisement, like the authoritarian seizing of the judicial system and realizing that help is not coming as expected.
You can find as many as you like.
It's like citizens on the ground helping each other the best they can to survive and just hoping that the people who are paid to help survive.
might be ashamed enough to actually step in.
But Hurricane Katrina, Race Against Time, definitely worth watching.
This is hurricanes, typhoons, or cyclones.
Also, if you do not like my sometimes filthy mouth, we have a spinoff show called Smologies and you can subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
So let's go back real quick.
We're going to go to our 2019 Disasterology episode with Dr. Sam Montano, who was so moved by Katrina that she moved to New Orleans to study disaster management, and it made it her career.
So here is an excerpt from that 2019 episode with Dr. Montano.
Going back to recovery, Samantha, remember, spent undergrad in Louisiana after Katrina and the floods, and this was a massive catastrophe.
Again, 80% of the city flooded.
Human bodies floated in the floodwaters for days at a time.
Infrastructure was out all over.
People left and never came back.
So for this episode, I went back and looked up some AP photos of the direct aftermath and I literally cried over my laptop and then had nightmares.
The scale of this tragedy was unthinkable.
So what was her experience like there?
It's for all ages, kids safe, shorter versions.
They're at the link in the show notes or wherever you get your podcast smologies.
Okie dokes.
Let's dive into part two of Tempestology.
It's all about how to prepare for a hurricane or really any disaster that comes your way.
Does it ever affect you to see how people respond to certain disasters as opposed to others or how policymakers or political officials will respond to certain communities affected or certain disasters?
Is that ever something that might get your goat?
Just a side note.
So we recorded this in late April.
The world had just watched France's structural jewel, Notre Dame Cathedral, burn in part to cinders and collapse.
Over $1 billion in donations poured out of pockets.
And the church reported that most of it was from small personal donations.
So, okay, they raised a billion dollars very quickly.
The very latest on weather and climate science funding, where you should retire, what's Waffles got to do with it, and what happens if you forge a hurricane map on international TV.
Fine.
It's Europe.
There are so many countries that would chip in.
But I just read a recent travel and leisure article that noted an estimated 90% of the donations didn't come from Europe.
They came from the U.S.,
So what about Puerto Rico, hobbled by Hurricane Maria?
They got less help from the U.S.
federal government than Texas and Florida did for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.
And as for personal donations, folks gave about $32 million to Puerto Rico as compared to that $1 billion for a Paris church.
Hurricane Maria's death toll in Puerto Rico, which is a U.S.
territory, is estimated at 3,057 people.
So the death toll for the Notre Dame fire?
Zero.
Huge financial discrepancies there.
Kanye West sometimes just calling them out on a telethon.
Back vintage Kanye West, that is.
The golden days of Yeezy, before red hats and proclamations that slavery is a choice.
And yeah, this episode with Dr. Montana was recorded in 2019.
And in those six years, Kanye or Ye has only spiraled into absolutely unhinged neo-Nazi behavior.
We'll hear from professional disasterologist and icon Dr. Sam Montano about the current climate of things and some of her reflections on equity and disaster relief and what you should do now in case something hits you.
It's just yet another upside down horror of the last few years.
Now, in a few minutes, we're going to hear again another update from Dr. Sam Montana on what to do.
But yeah, current day disasters.
We described the difference in part one.
Do insurance companies still call it an act of God or is it an act of nature?
I'll have to look that up.
So batten down the hatches.
Let's barrel headfirst into Cyclonic Systems with Tempestologists Dr. Kim Wood and Matt Lanza.
Now, what about trying to stop a hurricane?
What kind of measures historically or in the future have people tried to throw salt up there or anything?
What could we do?
So the prevailing advice from professional tempestologists is to look to your local meteorologist who will have the best handle on evacuation advice and what areas near you maybe hit the hardest.
And remember that these things are hard to predict weeks and sometimes even days out.
And hurricanes can ping pong around and change course that surprises even meteorologists.
So since part one of this episode went up last week, and part of the reason we spaced out this jumbo episode in two servings is because, kind of like an approaching storm about to wallop your whole existence, there have been minute-by-minute updates.
So according to the AP News, since January when...
And in part one, we met Dr. Kim Wood, who's an associate professor in the Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Arizona.
Trump took office.
The newly formed Department of Government Efficiency gutted NOAA and the National Weather Service, which are key for the nation's daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, climate monitoring, and more.
So hundreds of NOAA forecasters and other employees have been cut, and National Weather Service offices around the country have had a number of vacancies, the AP reported.
Meteorologists have been like, that's one way to shoot yourself in the crotch during increasing numbers of climate emergencies to stop funding them.
But as of this past Friday, August 6, 2025, apparently the government is looking to hire back 450 meteorologists, hydrologists, and radar technicians.
Now, many who took what amounted to a forced retirement or buyout are not coming back.
And we learned last week that those were usually the scientists closest to retirement and with the most experience.
And working under an administration who's looking to like slash mentions of climate change from its official websites and defund studies on global warming means a lot of those scientists do not want to put up with that bullshit.
Typically, it takes months to even get a government job.
And hurricane season is already here.
It's been hanging out on the porch, most likely to storm through the door in the coming weeks.
Right now, as I record this, we've got an eye on Hurricane Erin, which as of one hour ago from when I'm recording this, which is about six hours before the episode is released, Tropical Storm Erin could rapidly intensify in the coming days, they're saying.
And it could be the first Atlantic hurricane of 2025.
Stay tuned.
But have those 450 positions been filled yet?
No, they have not.
So the government fucked up, weather-wise, here.
It would not be the first time.
So in a moment, we'll talk about another gaffe that has become the stuff of legends.
But first, let's donate to a cause of theologist choosing.
And this week, it's Kim's Choice, and they selected the wonderful Trevor Project, which is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ plus young people.
And they provide information and support 24-7 all year round.
And their website notes that the Trump administration eliminated the specialized suicide prevention support for LGBTQ youth callers through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
The Trevor Project, however, provides immediate crisis support anywhere in the U.S.
via text, chat, or phone.
And the Trevor Project is 100% confidential and 100% free.
And when it comes to apparel in general for animals, ecosystems, people, is it the flooding or is it the abrasive quality of these sustained winds?
You can find out more or donate to them at thetrevorproject.org.
So thank you to Kim for choosing them.
Okay, where were we?
Yes, hurricane fuck-ups.
How did meteorologists feel in 2019 with Dorian's map being altered?
What was going on?
What was the reaction there?
OK, so this is officially known as the Hurricane Dorian, Alabama controversy, and it involved a press conference in the Oval Office of then president and now president Donald Trump holding up a poster board map of NOAA's predicted cone of uncertainty.
That's like where the storm may hit.
And it was headed over Florida, Dorian was, and up the Atlantic coast.
But someone had taken a black marker to the map and added a hump to the top of the cone to include Alabama.
It was likely not a scientist, as all meteorological predictions at that point correctly stated that Alabama would not be hit.
And the president, who tends to sign all of his papers with a black marker, later criticized a reporter for fact-checking him.
Also, doctoring or altering official weather predictions for publication or by a government official is against the law and it's punishable potentially by imprisonment.
But so are a lot of things that aren't.
Now, what was the response like internally?
Like what is it that is so, I guess, scary that requires so much kind of foresight?
It's just, yeah, it's so surreal.
And I wanted to ask, when we're looking forward to, say, this season, how are you getting that idea of it's going to be a bad one, it's going to be a good one?
And is it just getting worse every year with climate change?
yeah do you feel like it's not when you say it's not great do you mean the research isn't great or it's not looking great the prognosis is not great it's not looking great you know particularly yeah
Well, if you are paying any attention to what's happening in the United States, for any listeners who might have blissfully been unaware, Emily Knudsen, Maddie Julian, both first-time question askers, wanted to know, Emily asked, how will cuts to the National Weather Service impact our ability to track hurricanes?
Maddie wanted to know, how screwed are we this hurricane season because of the funding cuts to NOAA and the lack of satellite data?
Allison Clark said, hate to be a bummer,
But how bad are things expected to be in future storms as a result of these recent cuts to weather services?
So, I mean, part of why we're, like, laughing through tears is it couldn't have taken a worse turn here in terms of protections, understanding of it.
Like, it seems surreal.
What is going on with those programs?
Is there any hope?
Are there ways that scientists have been able to hold on to data or hold their positions?
Or like, what's going on inside?
Is it as bad as the headlines?
Is it not as bad as the headlines?
Fuck, dude.
Yeah.
Now, like now, now of all times to do that.
Also, like the president lives in South Florida most of the time.
Correct.
Like, right.
Is that that seems counter intuitive for.
Yeah.
I asked his astrologist, Dr. Sam Montano, what is happening?
And she sent me a note titled, Monday Morning Email of Doom.
I will read it to you.
So Sam says, the quick summary of what's happened is that the Trump administration has begun gutting FEMA with continued threats to eliminate the agency entirely.
And about 2,000...
FEMA employees have left the agency or been fired since January.
Perhaps most concerning, she writes, is the agency is undergoing a brain drain with key experienced leaders leaving in droves.
and also Matt Lanza, a Rutgers-trained forecast meteorologist and a writer and editor for Houston's highly respected, deeply beloved meteorological outlet Space City Weather.
And the most recent is a guy who was in charge of FEMA's urban search and rescue teams.
The administration has taken away funding for state and local mitigation projects, preparedness efforts, and ongoing recovery efforts.
And Sam says,
And there are ongoing lawsuits about it.
Unclear how this will play out, she says.
Trump has yet to formally nominate someone for the Senate to confirm to lead FEMA.
So they put in this guy, David Richardson, as the temporary head.
She tells me he is, and I cannot stress this enough, completely unqualified.
He has zero emergency management experience, didn't know there was a hurricane season, and also has terrible fashion sense.
Now, Dr. Montano had hyperlinked those last words, and I couldn't click them fast enough.
And it led me to her July 2025 blog post, which informed me that Richardson didn't show up in Texas until nine days after the recent July floods, which have killed 135 people and counting.
Incomprehensible, she says.
Nine days.
Nine days.
Now, Sam's blog post also furnished photos of Richardson.
in collared shirts unbuttoned to below his nipple line.
And she offered the description of his arrival in Texas.
This man rolled in looking like some washed-up mobster coming off a three-day bender at the club.
It's giving creepy old divorced dad at the bar scamming on young women.
This is the wardrobe of the sleazy guy, Olivia Benson, SVU's Mariska Hartigay, interviews when a socialite ends up dead.
a public service ad for Cover Your Drink.
She continues, he was wearing what appears to be a Cartier watch and the dumbest hat I have ever seen.
I know this is a tired exercise, but can you imagine, she says, if the former director had shown up in Western North Carolina over a week late wearing a $7,000 watch, can you imagine, Dr. Montano continues, if
It might seem like I'm just being mean, bullying a grown man like this and all, but his fashion choice is actually indicative of all the problems with Richardson serving as the head of FEMA.
Think Miranda Priestly's cerulean sweater monologue from The Devil Wears Prada.
His actions have demonstrated a complete disregard for the culture of the profession, a lack of respect for disaster victims, and an abdication of duty toward disaster survivors and emergency managers.
He has once again demonstrated that he does not take his job seriously and
Okay.
Again, Sam is a professional disasterologist who has been doing this much longer than David Richardson.
Okay.
Back to Sam's email, Monday morning email of doom, again talking about current senior official performing the duties of FEMA administrator at FEMA, David Richardson.
The biggest problem is that perhaps because FEMA is under the Department of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem has effectively taken the agency over.
This is causing all kinds of ethical problems and bureaucratic hurdles.
The Trump administration's plan, which aligns with Project 2025, is that states are going to need to be responsible for their own disasters.
The problem, of course, is that states do not have the people, budget or expertise to be able to do that effectively for big disasters and catastrophes.
She continues, this is probably much more than you're interested in.
No, Dr. Sam Montano, it is not.
But there was a big new nationwide survey of local, state, and territorial emergency management agencies.
And the TLDR is that there are not anywhere near enough people and funding for local, state, and emergency managers to meet the needs of their communities.
What that means is emergency managers can't do enough to try to prevent disasters and to prepare for them.
So when those disasters inevitably happen, the response and the recovery won't go well.
In italics, Dr. Montano stressed to me, we are not there yet, but if these federal changes continue and state and local governments don't dramatically increase funding, we are on a trajectory where public sector emergency management will collapse.
So what should people do?
Sam says, call your reps.
If you live in America, tell them to demand that the administration nominate a qualified FEMA administrator.
Urge your reps to pass legislation to make FEMA independent from the Department of Homeland Security.
And also for anyone who doesn't even live in the United States right now.
Take as many individual actions to prepare yourself for disaster with the resources that you have.
The usual things like stockpiling extra food, water, medications, having a family communication and evacuation plan, money set aside for an emergency if you can, buy flood insurance, Sam says.
Please, please, please do.
buy flood insurance she says also be proactive about getting disaster alerts and warnings make sure your phone settings allow for government emergency alerts she adds that this is the screeching sound your phone makes when there's a tornado etc which can get a bit annoying she says but you really need to keep it turned on you should also google your city or town or county or country an emergency management and see what other emergency alerts you can opt into
You can also follow your local emergency management agency on social media.
Check in with your friends and family and neighbors and make sure they've done all those things too.
Especially, she says, consider grandparents, elderly neighbors, or other people in your life who might need a little extra help during a disaster.
She says prepare for federal assistance to be delayed or much less than in the past and advocate for community-wide preparedness where you live.
Sam says look into your local emergency management agency's budget.
She says I bet they do not have enough money.
So go to a town council meeting and advocate for increasing their budget or taking on more local mitigation projects.
Also, you can urge local climate groups to include disaster advocacy in their climate work.
So we're going to link all those actions and advice via our website at alleyward.com slash ologies slash tempestology, which will be also linked in the show notes.
And also check out Dr. Montano's disasterology episode and follow her on Blue Sky and Instagram at Sam L. Montano.
She is a force for good.
More good.
And funding these science agencies, even if they're working on climate science, behooves everyone.
And the cost, other than human life?
So from FEMA's own website, based on 2018 analyses, natural hazard mitigation saves $6 on average for every dollar spent.
i can't wrap my head around five feet of rain i can't i can't even i mean i live in la so i can't wrap my head around a couple inches it's like everyone's cancels their plans yeah we got two inches of rain last night and we're like what where'd all this come from yeah it's like southwest united states roll call it's dry it's really dry
And remember that this was a 2018 study and numbers have trended upwards when it comes to savings.
FEMA's report also acknowledged the social and the psychological downstream effects of disaster and noted that some mitigation benefits include the reduction in domestic violence,
the conservation of heirlooms and photos, and the preservation of community and culture.
And those benefits can be extremely difficult to quantify.
And so they were omitted from the analyses.
So that six to one is definitely a conservative estimate.
Like if every hurricane had like a price tag, so it actually hit home with people, you know, like, oh, this is how much this hurricane is going to cost.
People might care more than just categories or even
lives, which is astonishing and horrifying.
But I think we've become, especially in America, we have become so used to mass casualties in a way that's just pretty horrifying.
But one thing that America still runs on is money.
And it's interesting to think damage-wise what that might do.
Should you go by the Waffle House Index or no?
So the Waffle House Index refers to the 365, 24-7 purveyors of breakfast and diner foods that dot the Midwest and the southern United States landscapes.
And it was kind of a folk guideline that if a nearby Waffle House is still open, you're probably safe because they close for no man.
It would be amazing if...
FEMA used this on-the-ground metric, but wait, they do, or they did, under the direction of Obama-appointed William Craig Fugate, who told the New York Times in 2012 that, quote, Waffle House has a very simple operational philosophy.
Get open.
They never close.
They run 24 hours a day.
So if the local Waffle House is business as usual...
Things are fine.
Now, if they have a limited menu, their power might be iffy.
And if they have shuttered the doors for a storm, you better get your ass to shelter too.
That is the Waffle House Index.
Now, the New York Times article also laments that after its poor handling of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, FEMA was the Homer Simpson of federal agencies, a symbol of pitiful incompetence.
It's a good thing that Katrina did not hit a nuclear reactor.
I know that there's so much that is challenging about being a Tempestologist in the year of our Lord 2025, the year of our Beyonce 2025.
What's the hardest thing about it?
But in August of 2023, L.A.
What about faves?
Let's start with Kim.
What do you love about them or working in hurricanes?
did experience the torrential remnants of Hurricane Hillary on the same day as a 5.1 magnitude earthquake.
That's such a beautiful point.
Any advice for someone who thinks that they might want to go into hurricane research or storm research?
Like they either want to chase a storm on radar or in an aircraft shaking violently with turbulence and fear.
I was there for both of them.
It was a real apocalyptic situation.
Also, this January, L.A.
Oh, that's so smart.
I definitely wouldn't have known how to audio edit if it weren't for ologies.
I was like, I don't want to learn that.
But then I was like, I do want to make a podcast.
I'm okay with it.
That's great.
And what does Matt adore about these storms?
erupted into flames.
Is there a favorite thing you have about studying hurricanes, about being a meteorologist, about what you do?
So, you know.
But Kim says that the risks are many faceted, from winds to rains to the potential of tornadoes.
But what about just stuff?
Andrew, if you wanted to know, is there a hurricane rating defined by the average amount or mass of debris being carried through the air?
So once again, ask delightful people disastrous questions.
And thank you both so much, Tempestologists Matt and Kim, for being two of the finest ever.
You can follow them at their social media handles, Blue Sky Matt.
Lanza Kim is Dr. Kim Wood, which are linked in the show notes or our website at allyward.com slash ologies slash tempestology.
We are ologies on Blue Sky and Instagram.
I'm at allyward with one L on both.
Smologies are those shorter classroom safe versions of ologies classics.
Those are available wherever you get podcasts.
And you can sign up at patreon.com slash ologies to send in your questions ahead of the recording.
Aaron Talbert, admin C-Ologies podcast Facebook group.
Aveline Malik makes our professional transcripts.
Kelly R. Dwyer does the website.
Noelle Dilworth tracks our unpredictable schedule.
Susan Hale oversees it all as managing director.
And pilots of our always exciting and shaky flight to hit publish are Jake Chafee and Captain Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio.
Nick Thorburn wrote the theme music.
Extra help provided by Jarrett Sleeper.
of Mindjam Media, who's also a wonderful husband.
And if you stick around until the end of the episode, I burden you with a secret from my heart.
Is that ever taken into account when warning the public?
And this week, it's that I realize I'm always afraid when I'm in stores that people will think I'm shoplifting.
The only time I've ever shoplifted once is right out of college when my blood sugar was really low and the line at Rite Aid was so long, I was going to be late to work.
So I stole a Clif Bar and then I bought one later at Trader Joe's and I returned the same Clif Bar to Rite Aid the next day.
because I'm an individual who is ruled by fear.
But nonetheless, I'm also just afraid in general that people might think that I would steal from them.
Like if it's going to hit an urban area or obviously with Katrina in New Orleans, the basin of the city had a huge impact on the infrastructure of the levees and stuff.
And I realized I was the public library and I realized it's so freeing because you can look at stuff without worrying about seeming weird or not buying anything.
And then I was like, how fitting that Lieber means free.
Although I just went down an etymology hole and I was like, well, Lieber, free, library, free.
free borrowing also a freedom of the soul but it turns out that library comes from a root word about tree bark and it's not related to liberty at all still libraries a place to experience liberty liberally and librarians i salute you and i'm not going to steal any books okay stay safe please and if you didn't like that this got political i didn't like that science gets political either
I don't like it.
They should fund science based on the science that we need and not based on appeasing coal companies and stuff.
But what do I know?
Enough not to mark a map with a sharpie.
And he's also a co-founder of the website The Eye Wall.
Is that ever taken into account?
Is there a warning system that might develop from that?
And we covered how fast hurricanes go with the threshold for a Category 1 being 74 miles an hour.
But before we get to the safest place to be, what happens to all of the non-humans caught in these storms?
Sustainable Serenity, and again, said, what happens to marine animals during hurricanes after Milton, a hunter, found a sea turtle in a forest inland?
Jessica Randolph, I don't know if Sharknado could actually happen, but...
Probably not on that scale.
But, you know, like, do you ever have to work with ecologists about like there's a completely different population of salamander over here because it just got swept up and dropped?
And Kim Blue opened my mind explaining that if you stuck your hand outside a moving car window, think of that force.
So he just didn't.
A Category 5, as covered in Part 1, is at least 157 miles per hour or 252 kilometers an hour or higher.
So it's part of the world.
But what if you don't want a front row seat?
Well, you know, so many populations live near a coast.
That's where the water and the fish and the trade is.
But when you are watching, let's say, House Hunters International, are you seeing people looking for vacation homes on the beach?
And are you thinking, no way, that is way too close to the water.
You are in the path of hurricanes.
Are you screaming at your TV?
You're nodding yes.
Catastrophic indeed.
Different set of global warming, but at least they're close by.
So when you're thinking about these wind speeds, like...
Yes.
I can't imagine.
Allie Ward, and this is part two of a smooth sail through rough weather.
Okay, but before we dive into this part, too, thank you to patrons of the show who make Ologies possible.
You can join for a dollar or more a month and send in questions for the ologists via patreon.com slash ologies.
What about the walls around you and the roof above you and the water rising at your feet?
Thank you to everyone out there in merch from ologiesmerch.com.
Jake and Ellie, first-time question askers, wanted to know, how do people hurricane-proof their land or house?
Like, how can people prepare was on a lot of people's minds.
Vanessa Adams wanted to know, is the likelihood of a hurricane hitting you inversely related to the amount of preparation you make for it?
Signed, a chronic overthinker.
Better prepared and have it not happen.
But, you know, as we're going into this season, anything people can do.
Is it sandbags?
Is it emergency kits?
You can get hats and shirts and totes, and you all can find each other in the wild.
And thank you to everyone who leaves a review for me to read, which helps us so much, keeps us up in the charts, and I read all of them.
like a little sad, lonely elf alone in a dark room, including this review this week from Cuisine, who wrote that they enjoy ology so much that, quote, maybe you're stalking me and created this podcast just for me.
And I didn't know this, but via the 2006 paper titled Deaths Related to Hurricane Rita and Mass Evacuation, 2.5 million evacuees along the Texas Gulf Coast fled before this Category 5 Hurricane Rita.
which killed 111 people.
But Rita's path, it narrowly missed some major city centers.
So a lot of the deaths were caused from trying to get away from it ahead of time.
Overheating in gridlocked traffic, turning the AC off to save fuel in the car.
dehydration.
People weren't drinking water because they wanted to avoid restroom stops and trying to conserve food and whatever supplies they had.