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Call for questions: 300TH EPISODE! (Patreon)

Published:
2024-05-21 01:57:36
Edited:
2024-05-21 15:33:27
Imported:
2026-06

Content

Holy moly, we're about to celebrate our 300th episode! For this milestone, lead editor Mercedes and I will be chatting about science communication and we'd like to hear your questions about science education, outreach, entertainment, careers, etc. Tell us in the comments what you want to hear more about!

Comments

Diana Staresinic-Deane

How many new official ology words have you accidentally on purpose created so far?

Cyntia B

What are a few options for starting a career in science education?

Anna Thompson

What steps have you taken to separate work from non-work time? When you love what you do it must be hard to not make every thing about work!

RJ Doidge

How do you keep it fresh and lively after 300 episodes?! It’s still just as enjoyable as when I started listening so many years ago.

Aki

What has been your best experience working as a science communicator? Most memorable? Most embarrassing? Most rewarding?

Brennan Hicks

How long does it normally take to fact check an episode? Edit? Etc.

Saracha

Physical therapy/physical therapists. Anything and everything to do with stuff of the movement of the human body and how they correlate it into everyday life

Karolyn

What are 3 things we can all do to be better science communicators and advocates?

Chrysalis Ashton

Woooo 300 episodes!! How long is your list of “Ologies yet to tackle”? Do you think you’ll ever run out of Ologies?

Rachel Guthrie

I am currently trying to pursue a career in environmental education (I’m 2 years post undergrad, Env. Biology). When did you know that you wanted to educate people about science and what experience(s) confirmed that for you? Thank you for continuing to make this podcast, it’s always inspiring to me and brings me so much joy! ❤️

Antonia Clark

Congratulations! Have there been any changes in the way we communicate science in the last few years giving the tense political environment, and hot climate changes (literally)? What moves today's public compared to 20 or even 50 years ago? Also, cheers to 300 more episodes

beccaand

Question specifically for Mercedes: how is working with our podfather?

Sophie

how to i become a science communicator?

Field Trip Mail Club

Fellow science communicator here! Just wanted to say that you and this show were a huge inspiration for me as I started diving into the field of scicomm. Thanks for all that you do!!

Hannah b

When did you know that u wanted to be a science communicator and how did you go about it during your beginning years of schooling

Miranda Panda

Do you prefer science communication via TV or podcast? That question also has me thinking it would be really cool for the same format to be made into a kids TV show, with animations to go along with the interview.

Charlotte Parkinson

I always feel it's too late for me to get into any kind of science field. It's not something I went on to do at college. I'm 35. Is it too late?? Looking for all kinds of encouragement

Jessie Pearce

Are there certain fields you have experienced more difficulty accessing(information/people/etc)? I’m curious how your ease of access correlates to people accessing that science! And maybe also shout out resources and systems that have made more information available in this capitalist country(world) we live in! I’m loving the Kahn academy and crash course videos, especially partnering with ASU(?) to give college credits for a low cost!

Marijke Decuir

How can government agencies get better at science communication while still being as accurate as possible? It is such a struggle to balance being accurate enough to stand up to scrutiny while still being interesting. -Marijke (mah-rye-Kah)

Rowena Z

How do you navigate the challenges of fact checking considering all the misinformation and also the pay walls blocking lots of research? It would be helpful to know what to look for, and maybe some tips!

Allison P

Does science communication strategies for adults and for children vary? As a non science person I find Ologies so approachable. I always learn so much, sometimes too much (looking at you, otters). Congrats on 300! Here's to 300 (+/- as many as makes you feel fulfilled) more.

Joy Kotheimer

What is one of the most memorable experiences, and similar- a conversation that was a hit you in all the feels that you are glad you’re doing what you’re doing and making a difference (either in expected or unexpected ways). Also I love how you and your team bring this bunch of amazingly weird and nerdy and fun people together ❤️ THANK YOU and thank you to all the Ologites 🙌

Miko

Congratulations!! As someone interested in spreading the love of science, I have thought about doing science communications for quite a while. However, I find it difficult to start talking about something without extensive research and a citation list, fearing that I might accidentally spread a rumor. (Maybe that says my science training was very rigorous?) Do you have any suggestions for how and where to start?

Emma Gillespie

Big congratulations! I’m a teacher and love sharing Smologies episodes with my students so I’m especially excited about it branching off and becoming its own show. Have there been any moments of Ologies learning that have changed your worldview or felt like an epiphany in a philosophical or even spiritual way? Love ya!

Katie Hammond

Any tips for reading academic articles, especially those with a lot of technical jargon? Are there any publications or outlets you follow that you'd recommend? Any chance of field trip episodes at academic conferences or trade conventions?

Stephanie

I am not a science communicator, but I do create content in a specialized field that I did not study! Besides the obvious (“Ask smart people stupid questions,” which I tell myself on the regular) what advice do you have about being the mediator between the subject matter experts and the audience?

Sydney Koenig

Can you share more about how you edit your podcasts? How much do you leave in or take out? How do you determine the important information? Are there any episodes you didn’t air bc there wasn’t a good way to edit them?

Audrey Hudak

How do you stay curious? Do you remember a time when you were not curious?

Ron

Great topic for #300! Couple of questions. What’s the best age to reach children and get them interested in science? Can teaching kids about science help improve their parents’ attitudes towards science? I’m especially thinking about climate change deniers.

Secnarf

My very passionate question is why all the focus seems to be on STEM while STEAM seems to have been given up on. 😞🤷‍♀️ Art and arts culture are as much as a part of our history and society as the others, but it gets a major back seat.

Between Dumplings

CONGRATULATIONS. I think one of the inherent challenges you face is the utter lack of knowledge many of us have, or the vast unevenness of the knowledge base of your potential audience. By positing your "stupid questions" and asking them of smart people you cast your lot with us "we're all curious and trynna figure out what the heck is it with [puffins]?" It's a brilliant way to bridge us all. Now, can you do election deniers? Racism deniers? What did the flat earth society think about the eclipse?

Kelsey Wood

Never too late! I had someone approaching 50 in my PhD cohort.

Gage Caro

Do you feel like you’re making a difference? Like reaching those who aren’t avid science lovers?

Michael in Seattle

I am constantly startled by the lack of basic scientific knowledge within the adult "general public." And how that lack even seems to be a source of pride. In the 21st century, that is really no longer an option. How can this be ... addressed??

Betsy B

What is the best type of background for someone wanting a science communication job? Should they get a degree in science? A degree in communication? What's the best way to build the best skillset?

Adam Silk

Congratulations! What's the best way for everyday people to help scientists? I use iNaturalist and Merlin but I always want to do more!

Felix Lasselle

How do you deal with science communication in your day-to-day? I.e. when people ask you random science questions, is there a good chance you know the answer already or is it more like "hey let me get back to you in 3 days with a well researched answer"

Felix Lasselle

How do you deal with people who have no interest in science or ignorant people who don't want to learn?

Mr. Weevil

what is your favorite part of science communication? have you gotten to see the difference it makes in the world first hand?

Felix Lasselle

I know Hank Green was already on for TikTokology but but would love for him, Alie, and Mercedes to have a conversation together about sci-comm.

Jennifer Aprea

There's natural/earth sciences and all the social sciences. What is the actual criteria for something to become a science? Who decides?

Patricia Evans

Given all the "alternate fact" people out there who see science as just a theory, it seems to me that your work is more important than ever. Do you do anything differently with Ologies knowing those sceptics might be listening?

John Stetler

As someone who is a former drug addict, with a criminal record. I'm wondering if anyone of my general prior persuasion has made it into scicom.

Lizzy Martinez

Congratulations Alie and everyone with Ologies (and Smologies!). What has been the biggest, most positive impact to the world thanks to science communication in the past 5 years?

Dave Miller, PhD

I’m a freshly minted PhD in performance psychology and will pursue that work full time when I retire in 3 years. I’d also like to explore sci-comm work…what’s the one thing you’d advise to increase my odds of success in this field? ✌🏻♥️🍸

Av Gehlhausen

I absolutely love and recommend a site/app called GoblinTools. I think you'd love it and it would be awesome to educate people about. there's so many tools and as an autistic person it is very very helpful in my personal and professional life.

Eliana Weiss

I'd love to know something about editing the show! What are some of the unique challenges of editing a scicomm podcast? Any particularly frustrating or delightful episodes to edit?

Amber McIntyre

How have you had to adapt communication in recent years? If you’re not offering a catchy headline or an article that isn’t too long - you’re losing audiences. (Sad face emoji) How is science communication responding to our culture’s shift to brevity and immediacy. How do you stay relevant in a world that seems less concerned with the theory and only wants the result?

Autumn Knol

What's been your favorite nugget of knowledge that you've given another human?

Mike Campbell

Taking one step back in the pipeline, what can we do to improve the effectiveness of STEM educators at the elementary level? Our education system seems to select primary grade teachers who are not very knowledgeable of science and not given adequate tools. And I’m sad to say that I believe many of these dedicated, hard-working people fear STEM and pass that along to their students.

Eating dog hair for a living

I wanna know about seahorses! Are they still around or extinct? Why do the males give birth and how is that possible? Are they as bony as they look? Are they underwater fairies or mermaids? I need to know if they're still out there somewhere!

Peregrine

Hello 👋 Ologies has been one of my most reliable friends over the last couple of years - as someone who is often lonely I am so grateful to have had you as company. And I so appreciate how you’ve inspired my curiosity as well - I’m always reminded how much I love science and I like to imagine one day I might be an Ologist interviewed by Alie :) Science communication/education really appeals to me, especially after hearing from so many of the guests on the show. I really love ecology and all sorts of biology etc., but I’ve been worried about going through the process of getting a bachelors degree and then not seeing a good path forward. I don’t know if I have a specific question, but I’d love any advice about getting into science education/communication and also how that can tie in with being a researcher and doing hands on fieldwork like some of the guests. Thank you Alie and Mercedes, and everyone at Ologies :)

Matt Thompson

What are some issues you've seen as a female science communicator compared to your male contemporaries?

Matt Thompson

If she doesn't answer, look at zooniverse. It's a community science program similar to Monterey Bay Aquarium's new app but there are a ton of options. Worth a look

Doug Paice

Do you have any tips for a Smologite that wants to be a science communicator? Would you recommend it as a career?

James Nance

Amazing... Congratulations! If you could go back in time and tell yourself something before you recorded the first episode, what would it be?

Laurel Sindewald

How do you balance nuance and depth of information while not going so deep into a topic that you lose people? How do you suss out that center of gravity when approaching a new topic?

Craig and Cats

What actually counts as scientific communication?

BeckytheSassySeagrassScientist

I'm a lucky scientist who gets to do cool research as well as some fun education/outreach stuff at my estuarine Reserve... But most often I feel like my audience has already decided how they feel about nature/science/learning. I want to talk to folks who maybe haven't experienced nature much and get them excited! I want to show them cool stuff! How do we connect with new different audiences?

Kimberly

How can we properly fact check when sharing scientific information?

Melissa Croce

This is SO specific but I’m curious: have you ever encountered a topic you’d want to do an episode on but there isn’t enough info or experts (or available experts!) to interview?

Melissa Croce

Before I forget— congrats on the 300th episode & thank you for all of the knowledge and joy and community you’ve brought to so many of us 🩵 what a beautiful legacy to have

Peregrine

Not a question, but I was just remembering: a couple of years ago I had just started listening to Ologies at a friend’s recommendation. I downloaded a bunch of episodes to keep me company for my first time travelling alone, about a year after graduating high school. The year had been weird and directionless, but now I had decided to move across the country! I remember being on the deck of the ferry, finally seeing the ocean again, and listening to the comforting sounds of cool people being curious and talking about science. Thanks for reminding me why being alive is okay and sometimes pretty cool. 💛 Much love to you all and congrats on 300 🦇🌱⚡️🍄‍🟫🪺

Yuri

Why does spewing facts get so many humans to dig in the heels even MORE with wrong beliefs? Why do we need an emotional connection to be willing to entertain a logical change? Well most of us, a lot of neurodivergent folk don't, but even we have our blind areas (Yuri - like beauty without the b)

Lenore Hill

Do you think there are some areas of science that communicate more effectively than others? Is it due to specific individuals or does it have anyhting to do with the ologogy being studied?

Hannah Gorrie

Do you notice trends in the fields of science that are most interesting and get the most engagement over time? Are there easier fields to report on than others?

Scott Hanley

I found you, Dad Ward, as a guest on Star Talk. Neil DG Tyson talks about how Carl Sagan called him and invited him to visit Cornell and Sagan himself wanted to show young Neil DG Tyson the campus. What hero of the sciences would be either of yours dream host/hostess in a similar experience, if it was possible.

Hannah Gorrie

How can you determine if experts are held in high regard in their field and would make reputable sources for their expertise? Do you ever experience backlash from the field of study you've reported about for picking someone who isn't held in high regard or has contentious takes on their subject?

Hannah Gorrie

Is there a platform, medium, or audience you want to break into that you haven't yet? Are there any sci-comm goals or accomplishments that would make you feel like you've Made It?

Tanner

Wooohooo! Congrats on the 300th episode. Only feels fitting to ask the classic questions: what's your favorite part of making Ologies? Least favorite part? And what movies/popular media get science communication wrong... and who does it right? 😊

Nick A

Are there any topics you have already covered but wish you could cover again?

Elyce

What has been your favorite episode?

Cheryl W

How can I become a science communicator? I have a master's degree in environmental studies and work in higher education. I love this podcast and want to change careers to be able to communicate to others about the wonders of the world, etc. I don't see how to change careers without getting an additional degree, which is financially impossible for me. Please advise.

Nicole Robb

FTQA: I am encouraging my daughters to pursue a STEM career! What are some jobs that are related to science that are unique or unheard of?

Lauren Seibert

Any tips of translating the science to different grade levels? Like elementary versus high school? I feel like I struggle with this the most

Dorit

Which scientific discipline are you most drawn to? Is there a type of science you'd like to do yourself?

Caro Young

What have been the biggest learnings for you in 300 episodes? What (if anything) are you doing differently/wish you had known in the beginning?

Caro Young

How do you structure your interviews? I am always amazed when there are 500 Patreon questions and you manage to summarise them and also balance them out with your own questions

Zoe

Congratulations! Thanks for being in our ears and brains all this time <3 I'm curious about what kind of background you think is best for a career in scicomm! I would love to do what you do but I have 0 science background, although I was an environmental reporter before - what's the best way to break into the field?

Nicole Harper

What opportunities are there for a career in science communication/advocacy outside of non profits? How do you recommend getting there? Asking from a this world is expensive and missing teaching environmental education perspective!

Silvia Triverio

Congratulations and thanks for doing this! I’ve been listening since the early episodes and I love and respect what you do. How do you research for an episode? How do you tell your brain when it is time to stop working and get a break? How did you find your collaborators (it sounds like you are surrounded by a bunch of loyal friends!)?

Amandaloveskurt

How do you advocate for science education in your life outside of work? Any tips for getting non science minded adults excited about science and using their critical thinking skills?

Josephine Murdoch

I love your ethos of "ask smart people dumb questions" but I struggle with it in my own work as I'm genuinely scared of sounding stupid. I work in the climate sector and despite being in the field for 5 years I still have imposter syndrome because it is such a big, changing field and I don't think I will ever know "enough". Do you ever get imposter syndrome and how do you manage it?

Leila Laco

Have any of the new or obscure -ologies you've created or highlighted in an episode become more widely used since that episode came out? Have any guests who didn't previously think their field had an -ology started using the -ology from the ep themselves or calling themselves an -ologist? Hope that makes sense! (Lay-luh)

Fi Cameron

I loved the Aliology episode, will there ever be a Jaredology, a Mercedesology? Fancynancyology? Gremyology?

Bassist Ex Machina

When STEM became STEAM, I remember being really excited about the possibilities of “art meets science” but over the years I feel like I haven’t seen that much integration of the two. They’ve been more like a couple of colleagues who occasionally eat lunch next to each other in the break room but don’t really talk. There is so much beauty in science and science in beauty, how can we make more of a love connection between these two? Thanks for all you do to bring your own science-flavored art to us every week!

ChickenChomper

Happy 300th!!! Yay!! I love all that Ologies does and stands for, and as a researcher who studies weird often-unloved creatures (sea cucumbers/holothuroids) I appreciate how you give creatures like these time in the spotlight. Please don't change a damn thing - heart/happy face

Gabbi

I’d love to know more about art and science together! I’m in art school and am dedicated to a sustainable practise. Also currently working on a residency in a studio that focuses on climate change and action. Would be cool to hear about artists who do this sort of thing or maybe how art can work as a tool in science! :)

Ramona McKenzie

Happy 300! Hope you stay healthy and happy for at least 300 more and beyond. I’d like to know more about “science-like” research, etc. on products/supplements especially those multilevel marketing products. I’m particularly interested in ASEA products….

Darren Bush

Congrats on 300. No question, just thanks.

Patrick Myers

I started with episode zero and recently passed episode 100. Do you feel like your attitude, outlook, or approach to science communication has changed over the years? Looking forward to hearing your 300th episode when I get caught up.

Bill LaBranche

Well done Alie, 300 is quite a milestone, you should be proud!!! :-) A question about post production... how do you (or Mercedes) decide when is "good enough"... do you remove every "ummm"? or every pause? or do you leave some in to make it sound natural? We can drive ourselves crazy trying to appear perfect... how do you manage the "good enough"?

Cat Kessler

For those of us who don’t engage in scicomm professionally but have a lot of love and enthusiasm for it, how can we best support, promote, and cheer on scientists and science communicators?

Rebecca Morrison

How did you decide this was what you wanted to do?

Cece Tincknell

I love science and have always been curious about how to get started in a sci comm career as somebody who doesn’t have a ton of experience. I don’t really know anybody (personally) who works in the field and I’m in Boston where the camera work opportunities are very limited. Any tips on where to get look/get started?

Cate Muenker

Where do you see yourself in 5 yrs? 10 yrs? Maybe using guest hosts like they do on late night TV? Maybe a spinoff where someone goes into the field every episode to accompany a researcher? What ideas do you toss around to make things more interesting/fun for you? Would you ever pass the reigns to someone else?

Staci Pinkowitz

CONGRATULATIONS!! Many accolades and celebrations, etc!! Thank you endlessly for all the love, blood, sweat, and tears that have gone into this project - its impact cannot be overstated. I am a full time outdoor educator at an environmental nonprofit org, and Ologies has been a huge influence in my career. I love spending my time interpreting nature/regenerative ag systems/ecosystems to folks, primarily littles, and GOSH so many of my silly tidbits and trivia in my lessons are pulled right from the podcast. I recommend it to everyone!! Can you share some reflections on the best way to break into scicomm as a career path? Like, is the best way to do it going viral on tiktok making short form sketches about plant facts? Or writing a blog or a comic? Is there a solid, realistic academic route, or internships? Just knowing all the right people? I'm sure there isn't one linear way to "be a science communicator," but would love to hear some of your thoughts on that. I just want to share nature facts with the world forever and my brain gets frazzled trying to figure out effective ways to move forward in doing that sustainably for myself. Thank yoooou!

Matt Hirschl

Please take a victory lap and smell the roses, if only for a moment! With the big 300, would both of you please reflect on why this podcast has tickled the brains of so many? Why are our brains so interested in learning about any random topic that you throw out there? Why does my brain want to learn EVERYTHING?

Kimberly Coburn

FTQA: So grateful for you, UncleDad, and the 300+ hours of knowledge and delight you've funneled through my earholes into my brain. Who/what were your formative SciComm inspirations? What books or shows enthralled that curious mind of yours? (Related: I was introduced to Connections through you and it's a DELIGHT!)

Rick T

I’m in my late 50s and will be losing my job in October. I love science, I have a science degree, but have rarely used that education in any job. I’ve been told I should have been a teacher (I was a tutor in college) so science education is compelling to me. What can an older person facing a potential career change do in science education that can pay the ever-increasing bills? Any advice?

Amy

Would you ever consider making Ologies a show?

Amy

Congrats on 300! You are just the most adorable human and you make these big, heavy, nuanced topics digestible. So thankful for this podcast. Question: You are a role model for so many when it comes to science & communication, who are your role models in this field?

Amy

Any flimflam you wanna debunk?

Lainie McKeating

What fills your cup, what fun stuff keeps you going? Thank you for all you do! I love this podcast ❤️

Matt Ceccato

Do you have a favorite piece of science communication? It could be a particular event or news release or something else. Congratulations on CCC episodes!

Melanie Metzger

Just wondering if you'd ever need a science-loving librarian on your staff. (I just happen to be one and think you have the most amazing job ever!)

Emmett

In the minisode regarding Smologies (so exciting btw!) you talked about there not being enough science content for adults/all the cool things being tailored towards kids. As a now 20y/o, I’m just starting to realize this myself!Given this, what do you hope to see in the future of science communication? Are there types of media other than podcasts you think would be a good vessel for adult-oriented science content?

Emmett

And congratulations on 300 episodes!! All your hard work is valued and appreciated 💚 thank you for everything you do Alie + team!

Brittney Corrigan

Any advice for those of us who always thought we'd have a career in science but then chose a different path? That parallel ghost life still haunts me. Beyond reading voraciously and listening to science podcasts such as this one, what are good ways to scratch the scientific itch when it's too late to change careers?

Becki Grady

Are there ologists you would like to go back and do a follow-up interview with? Thank you for what you do. I have always felt that factual information presented in a humorous way is the best way to learn anything. You do it perfectly. I cannot wait for another 300 episodes!

Megan Younce

I can't believe it's been 300 episodes!! I remember episode 0! Thanks Dad!!

Charity Johnston

How do you decide which ology to explore and how do you choose your ologist?

Anna Elizabeth

how does someone break into the world of scicom? i’m looking to switch up my career. I’d really like to be a science educators but none of the institutions near me are hiring right now

Chris Whitman

We seem to be living in a country of evidence based politics and faith based politics. Being that we are in a political shit storm season right now... What is the relationship between science education, those who have some level of science education, and political party?

JENN 'Benthopelagic squirrel' ALVAREZ

Been here since day 1! I'm so happy for you AND us! I've learned so much from you! Will you do an episode about earthworms? I know we had one about Planariology with my now "brother", Dr Pagán!😍 Seriously love this podcast!

jangonator

Congrats on 300! How do you find the balance between voicing your opinion on something you care about and presenting information objectively in an effective way? I imagine it’s a challenging feat.

Merg

I think you are amazing and have an amazing job!

Merg

Do you think more people should try to get into sci com or is it a saturated market? Do you have any tips about breaking in or specific outlets? Books, podcasts, social media? Also I'm a medical lab scientist at a pediatric hospital and you have kept me company through a really busy respiratory season. Thank you for that!

Alli B

Move to the Bay Area! It’s more expensive to live here, but there are teaching credentials being granted without a masters. Yes, we are desperate for teachers.

Jacintha Jaa

What are some ologies you've yet to find an expert on?

Saira (‘Sarah’) Manns

What ology have you wanted to cover for the longest time, and why hasn’t it happened yet?

Saira (‘Sarah’) Manns

If someone were to make a movie on your life/Ologies, who would you want to play you?

Saira (‘Sarah’) Manns

Do you have a list of all the -ologies in the world? How many are there? Is it so long that you could do another 300 episodes?

Sara Rocero

Here to ask the most profound question- Who sorts and groups all of the Patreon questions, and how? I’ve always wondered this lol

Sara Rocero

Part of my job is securing grant funding to implement riparian buffers for habitat restoration. One of the hardest parts is getting private landowners to see the benefits of improving water quality by planting native trees and shrubs- at no cost to them! What form of media does the Ologies team find the most successful in reaching new audiences and communicating the ecological benefit?

Mary C

What are your biggest takeaways from science communication that I can apply to my non-science corporate desk job and also my personal life?

Caro Young

Have you ever considered to add another format to Ologies? Maybe taking Ologies on tour or cute illustrated Smologies books?

Caro Young

How do you choose your Ologists?

Earl of Greymalkin

1) How did you get into the TV sci comm scene? Was it a product of being in LA already? 2) What do you think is the biggest barrier about making science accessible to the public? 3) What strategies do you use to recruit or shape your intended audience? Or do we rather find you spontaneously? 4) How is Ologies different now that it has been so well established versus when it was first starting out? Does it feel like you have podcast popularity inertia rolling along? Or does it still feel precarious? 5) What is the cost of production for the podcast (time and money, how many people work on it) and how do you fund it? How much do you have to work around other jobs? 6) Did you have beta listeners in the beginning or did you just jump into releasing episodes? What kind of input does Mercedes have as lead editor on how to handle an episode? 7) How much editing down and cutting sections is required to make podcast episodes? Are there particular parts you cut? Do people request you cut bits? How do you decide to make a multi-episode versus edit down a lot? 8) Is anyone incorporating Smologies (or Ologies) into classrooms that you know of? (Do you think you're having a good influence on the Youths? haha) 9) How has your sci comm work affected the way you live your life? Do you sniff trees a lot more now? 10) Do you ever have anxiety about how an episode will be received or if you should or should not have left an aside in, and how do you deal with it? (Always looking for good mental health tips, haha). 11) (Obviously) whats the best and worst parts of making Ologies, and the other sci comm projects? 12) What does the future of sci comm look like? Have you seen the current technology or general state of the world change how it's been done or what is covered? (Subtext: can we save education and cultivate real curiosity in people?) 13) Less of a question and more of a comment: Thank you for all your work! Looking forward to 300 more episodes! ;D Dare you to try to run out of -ologies!

Neen

my partner has lovingly called me a yap-ologist, what are your tips on starting up conversations/ getting the yap gears flowing so smoothly?

Jennifer Chaput

I'm a data librarian at a large university. I work with researchers and have to communicate with them about the research, and of course many of them participate in different types of science communication about their work. I've been trying to figure out how librarians can be more involved in that process, since information sharing is our jam! Any thoughts?

Nick worth

My experience is that in elementary school, science was very visual/tactile (experiments, cool pictures of dinosaurs) and was a way to explain a lot of cool things I could see and really relate to. In Secondary school, it started to focus a lot more on things I could not directly observe, so it relied on a lot more learning by rote. I still liked physics because it made real world sense to me, but chemistry and biology were completely opaque to me. You're dealing with things at what feels like a much more abstract level, and I think maybe a lot of people at that age struggle with that. I certainly did. I do thing standard testing is an issue. We had to learn all sorts of stuff about the periodic table, but I was just fact retention. I had no deep understanding of any of it beyond just a graphic at the time...

Death Nell (Nellaenora)

Hi! I have asked questions a couple times but never had one mentioned in the show (yet). Love this podcast so much! I'm very interested in being a science communicator, but also trepidatious about such an endeavor. I have a few options for questions! 1) How much science education, or other relevant education such as writing, communication, education, statistics, etc, do you think it's generally good to have to be a good science communicator? Did you have to go to school for any of that, or for science communication itself? 2) How much time do you personally spend researching? Writing? Editing? What part of the job takes the most time, and most energy, at least for you? 3) What are your favorite other science communication media? Fave podcasts, publications, shows, etc.

David Barker

Every one of your podcasts is a homerun hit. Your ologists are outgoing and articulate... This success rate seems miraculous! I'd like to hear about the ologists that didn't make the cut. There must be some interviews that just don't go right with an interviewee clamming up or giving uninteresting responses. Editing can only cover so much. How do you "fire" your ologists? I don't want specific examples or hurt any feelings! You are brilliant and hilarious :)

Kinkaid Designs

I'm loving all the science podcasts especially ologies. I learn so much.

Raja

I'd love to learn about ways to reach people who seemingly don't care. I teach environmental education and while I mostly work with people who are present because they already care, I want to reach those who don't. Where do you start? I hear you say things like, "if you've ever ____, them this matters to you, whether you know it or not." Looking for more tricks like that. 🙂

Agata Kajewska

When I'm stressed about stuff, I usually ask myself "we'll, what's the worse that could happen?! " And it cool me down to realise noone is going to die if I screw up. So, what was your worst experience/thing that happened related to the scientific communication you've been involved with? And why it wasn't THAT bad?

David Barker

Flat earthers would just say "that's easy! The moon is flat too dummy!" 😆

David Barker

It's never too late... I'm a 55 year old airline mechanic with a lifelong live of science and reluctantly volunteered to teach robotics at my daughter's elementary school and I love it! I would teach stem to kids full time and I bet someone would pay me to do it. Just surround yourself with science people and you'll find a path. Kids are all science people!

Shannon Debo

Hello! Long time listener but first time question asker! I believe that critical thinking and the scientific method is soo important for not just kids but adults to understand and live their lives with. How do you believe we can celebrate these methods of thinking and make it "cool" to approach life this way, when fast facts and quick videos seem to be the preferred method of information intake? Love you Alie! Bravo to everything you do for the scientific communities. Truly feel you are a kindred spirit and love being your pod-friend!

McKenna Pace

Hi there! First time question asker here. I'm actually starting a PhD in science communication this fall because I really believe sci comm classes should be required for anyone studying a science in college and/or pursuing scientific research as a career. What do you wish more scientists understood about the communication process? On the other hand, what do you wish more non-scientists understood about science?

Kelly Dooling

Have you seen any examples of scientific journals that do a good job of disseminating jargon heavy papers in ways that non-experts can easily understand?

Saira (‘Sarah’) Manns

Oooh yes! I’ve often wondered if there have been any topics/interviews that didn’t end up being published.

Saira (‘Sarah’) Manns

This seems like a kinda meta question to be asking, but how do you sort through all the Patreon questions for the ologists? Do you manually group similar questions to get a list of all the patrons who asked the same thing? Or is there an option to download comments into a CSV file where you can then apply formulas to help filter them all? I imagine it would be a big (but fun!) job, especially for topics with a huge influx of questions! (Side note, which topic is the current record holder for most patron questions?)

Evan Villavicencio

Hey Alie and Mercedes - was wondering if y’all had any insight on how to bring more artistic expression and creativity into the scientific world? I am passionate about both art (especially visual art and music) and science and am looking into ways to bring the two together in both my personal and professional life. Any ideas on jobs where I can be creative and make art but also be doing science?

Teale Vee

Hi Dad! I’d like to meet a scientist who communicates the joy of science to kids. Who’s the next Bill Nye Science guy?

Olivia Lester

I've been really looking into a career in scientific communication and am so inspired by your work! What is a good launching point to start this kind of work? What kind of job titles/gigs are good to look out for? How do you know your audience (demographics) and stay connected with them? How do you decide the degree you insert your own personality/voice and biases? What medium do you find is the best to communicate with a broad audience, or one that is most galvanized/engaged? How does this change depending on the audience? What's the most exciting/favorite part about your job? Least favorite? Last one--are you looking to hire?

Mouse Paxton

Congrats on reaching 300 episodes, that's such an amazing milestone!! What have been some of your favourite moments or experiences in science communication/outreach?

Björn Fredberg

Congratulations on 300 episodes! Every episode you interview amazing ologists, but which ologist would you like to interview you? What question would YOU want to answer?

The Farming Linguist

If you weren’t a podologist (get it?!) what ology would each of you most like to spend your life studying? Here’s to another 300 ahead!

Björn Fredberg

What is your best dad joke? What joke do you laugh at, but no one else?

Björn Fredberg

Do you work off a list of ologists, checking off all you have done? Which one would you like to do, but really don't think you have time to get to?

Björn Fredberg

Any flin flam or questionable behavior in scicom we should be aware of? What (if any) bugs you the most?

Paul Batson

If you could go back in time, which Dead Ologists would you want to interview?

Paul Batson

Also, I'm a First Timer, and an old-timer...

Emily Krieger

what aspects of the pod have you learned over time are important to ologites? and congratulations!!

Charline

Hey Alie! I love your podcasts so much! Each time I hear an episode my brain fills with joy. I know cockroaches aren’t your favorite insect but will you do an ologies of them anytime soon?

Cheyenne Montgomery

Hi Alie! I teach high school science and spend a lot of time worrying about the flood of misinformation and disinformation that is pushed into social media feeds. One thing I have noticed about "experts" selling psuedoscience and conspiracy is that they are very sure of themselves. They say they have "proof". For some reason, people seem to feel comforted and trusting of information delivered in this way. An actual scientist will say things like, "this is the best model we have right now," and that's not a satisfying answer for a lot of people. In a world where everything feels scary and uncertain all of the time, how do science communicators help people be more comfortable with science as an ongoing process and inoculate against fake "science".

Cheyenne Montgomery

I think your podcast format, "asking smart people dumb questions" does this really well! You make the expert approachable and the mysteries of science joyous instead of scary.

Amity Bliss

First of all - I need to give you and Ologies credit for the final push I needed to enrol in environmental science at uni. Listening to the backstories of all the ologists made me realise I am no different to them, and I am perfectly capable of doing it! Fast forward to now - I'm having the time of my life studying. What do you need to develop in the sci comm/ed industry? How does one break into it? Give us the top tips and skills we should focus on. A sincere thankyou, from Australia! P.S. please come here and throw an Ologies meet up.

Amity Bliss

Also perhaps I'm biased but doing a 'Eucalyptology' episode would be pretty neat.

Zoe Litton

🎉 Congrats Dadward! 🎉 I cannot thank you enough, you have inspired me in so many ways, you are amazing! I do want to know if you have a tip on how to make hard decisions? I'm a student now, and I know some someday I'll have to chose between science and the performing arts. I know I'll probably chose science but I still want to perform. Congrats again!

Kellee Toler

Congratulations!!! My question is, how does one get started in science communication? Where do you begin if you think it's what would make you happy?

Faith Stemmler

Congratulations on the 300th episode, Dadward! You deserve an infinite amount of cheers, hugs, Gremmy kisses, and any and all other accolades for all the work you do! I absolutely adore the wide swath of topics you approach with the eager, curiosity of a true ologist. I have worn many “ologist” hats myself and must say you do the realm of scientific communication a HUGE service! I would love to know more about how you got into science communication and how you would suggest someone starts out. Be it videos on YouTube, instagram, or another means of expressing how cool the sciences are!! What are your tips and tricks!? OH and you should totally do an episode on ocean layers like air-sea interface, all the way down to the abyssopelagic zone covering not only critters that may reside there, but also the chemical, physical, and geological attributes which dignify the ocean as a biome to be revered and respected. THANK YOU!!

Jeanne

First time question-asker! What are your thoughts on the gatekeeping of scientific journals, which are often inaccessible due to a paywall? I was FIRST AUTHOR on a paper and the journal still was going to make me pay $30 to read MY OWN paper.

Jeanne

What are your thoughts on how science is taught in schools? How does it compare in different countries? From interacting with peers from around the world, it seems like North America has a much lower level of science education in high school than a lot of other countries - why do you think this is?

Casa Reed-Dean

Were so exided that it is your 300 episode!Also first time question asker, what made you want to start a podcast?

Alia Myers

What are your thoughts on scientific jargon? How do you navigate jargon when doing research?

Magsaroni

At the end of each episode, are you saying 'ber-bye' or 'ver-bye', and why?

AlexanderVonFritzyBitzAndHisMom

After 300 episodes, do you have a few that are your favorites? Or that you’re proud of most? Flip side: which would you like to revisit/revise. We love listening and often enjoy the topics we aren’t already interested in the most!

Emily Woodland

Woot woot🎉✨ congratulations Ology team!! Here’s to many more. First time question asker here—how much do you have to know about a given topic going into an interview in order to ask interesting and engaging questions? What is your research process like? Do you have any general advice for conducting interviews, or for being interviewed? As someone who juggles multiple exciting and meaningful projects at any given time, how do you make time for yourself? Is science communication the type of field that requires you to make it your entire life, or is there room for balance? If you could trade lives for a day with one of the experts that you’ve interviewed, who would you pick and why? Thank you for your compassion, curiosity, professionalism and dedication❤️ I aspire to be involved in producing something as cool as Ologies someday.

Leah Perlongo

Do you follow other science communicators? If so, who are your favorites?

Dylan V

So sad I missed this, the episode was great! Would love to have asked what Alie's relationships with other science communicators is. Has she met Hank Green, Mark Rober, or NDT? If she could have a collab event with all of them, what would that look like?