Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star Wars
From archeology to zoology, real-world science is everywhere in Star Wars! Every episode includes an interview with an expert discussing how Star Wars relates to their field of study. Explore the many ways science is represented in a galaxy far, far away with hosts Melissa Miller and James Floyd, both freelance writers for Star Wars Insider magazine. Part of the Skywalking Network
info_outline
50: Environmental Apocalypse
04/22/2024
50: Environmental Apocalypse
In this episode of Star Warsologies, we hear from an ornithologist about birds in Star Wars, along with invasive species and extinction events! Justin Hite joins us for this episode to chat about his career studying birds and the environmental chaos they put up with. We get into whether Rey was exposed to harmful chemicals during her years salvaging parts from downed Star Destroyers and of course all the devastation the Death Star wreaks. We also cover more cheerful topics like birds being tiny dinosaurs and . Being a group of 80s kids, we also talk about how great the show Ewoks is! Show Links: Check out the and to learn more about the project Justin works on. You can read the in the Outer Rim that Melissa wrote while watching The Mandalorian. And the about the killings in that show. And to learn more about , check Melissa's my Insider article where I interviewed a puffin scientist and the concept artist that created porgs. Check out for bird species to see wherever you live or are traveling. Check out , scroll back for more birds! Subscribe to never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Did you miss an earlier episode? ! Follow us on , , or join our ! Star Warsologies is a podcast about science in a galaxy far, far away. Hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of storytelling in the franchise with their keen interest in all things academic.
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/30894493
info_outline
49: Empathy and Compassion
03/25/2024
49: Empathy and Compassion
In this episode of Star Warsologies, we learn the difference between empathy, compassion, and sympathy and how each is represented in Star Wars! Professor Maureen Day shares her insights with James and Melissa about virtue ethics and vices, and their roles in our galaxy and in Star Wars. Can we forgive the atrocities of Vader and Kylo Ren knowing their backstory of complicated young me? What makes the Sith a good example of empathy? What's the best redemption arc in Star Wars? There's more questions than answers in this episode, but we hope you enjoy pondering these topics for yourself! Show Links: A reading list from our expert, Maureen Day! Check out for more about her research, books, and appearances! Subscribe to never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Did you miss an earlier episode? ! Follow us on , , or join our ! Star Warsologies is a podcast about science in a galaxy far, far away. Hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of storytelling in the franchise with their keen interest in all things academic.
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/30513208
info_outline
48: Conflict Resolution in Star Wars
02/20/2024
48: Conflict Resolution in Star Wars
In this episode of Star Warsologies, conflict resolution experts weigh in on the wars, negotiations, and other conflicts in Star Wars! Jen Reynolds and Noam Ebner authored the book "Star Wars and Conflict Resolution: There Are Alternatives To Fighting" and speak with us about the lessons we can learn from Padme, Obi-Wan, and other characters who fight the good fight. From everything from hiring the Millennium Falcon to galactic wars, negotiations occur throughout the saga and mirror the real world in many ways. Apparently there's four ways people typically react to conflict: avoidance, cooperation, competitiveness, and yielding. Which type are you? Which type are your favorite Star Wars characters? Show Links: Buy "Star Wars and Conflict Resolution" on and stay updated about the second book and other offerings. Follow them on , , and ! Subscribe to never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Did you miss an earlier episode? ! Follow us on , , or join our ! Star Warsologies is a podcast about science in a galaxy far, far away. Hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of storytelling in the franchise with their keen interest in all things academic.
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/30003343
info_outline
47: Anthropology in Alien Design
01/23/2024
47: Anthropology in Alien Design
In this episode of Star Warsologies, an anatomy professor weighs in on the importance of designing aliens that make sense! Dr. Elizabeth Rega is an anatomy professor who consults on movies and video games to help creators add an element of realism to their projects. She worked on Mulan, The Emperor's New Groove, and even the Madden series. Melissa and James ask Elizabeth to speculate wildly about what we can tell about some of our favorite aliens based on the traits they share with humans. Is Klaud related to axolotls? Do Gungans breathe through their butts? What does Yoda look like under his Jedi robes? Fun questions for our anatomy expert! Show Links: Read about the evolution of Mickey Mouse. Check out the showing off his two limbs. where Elizabeth joined our LA Comic Con panel of science advisors. Check out Elizabeth's . Subscribe to never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , , or wherever you listen to podcasts. Did you miss an earlier episode? ! Follow us on , , or join our ! Star Warsologies is a podcast about science in a galaxy far, far away. Hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of storytelling in the franchise with their keen interest in all things academic.
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/29603673
info_outline
11: FasTEN Your Seat Belts, with science advisor Erin Macdonald
01/08/2024
11: FasTEN Your Seat Belts, with science advisor Erin Macdonald
It's the finale! Lisa and Melissa chat about the physics of the final franchise installment (for now). They're joined by Dr. Erin Macdonald, the science advisor for all the current Star Trek shows. Together, they answer important questions like, is a dam just a vertical road? Do bad guys make good shock absorbers in plummeting elevators? Just how much therapy has Jakob had since the last movie? Is Little B destined for a Nobel Prize in Physics? Will anything come of Little Nobody swiping right on Han's dating profile? We hope you had as much fun listening to these bonus episodes as we had making them! We'll return once there's a new F&F movie out! Follow and subscribe to ! Follow Melissa Follow Lisa The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics come and go, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss our return once the next movie comes out!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/29369208
info_outline
10: F9: The Facts Saga, with Bobak Ferdowsi from NASA
12/28/2023
10: F9: The Facts Saga, with Bobak Ferdowsi from NASA
Faaaaaaaacts in Spaaaaaace! Melissa and Lisa welcome NASA JPL systems engineer Bobak Ferdowsi (aka the Mohawk Guy!) to chat about the pros and cons of launching a Pontiac Fiero into space. But that's not the only physics nonsense in this movie - there's also magnets, mines, and more! As Bobak eloquently states, the science of Fast & Furious movies are like La Croix - there may not be any real science in the movie but it seems like the creators saw some science at one point or another. Learn more about Bobak is working! Follow NASA on and ! Bobak is also (sometimes) on and . Learn more about ! Follow Melissa Follow Lisa The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics come and go, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss the rest of our rewatch!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/29265203
info_outline
9: Hobbs & Shaw-ence, with experts in immunology and medical devices
12/25/2023
9: Hobbs & Shaw-ence, with experts in immunology and medical devices
Does Brixton's heads-up display actually give him helpful information? Can you really hold a helicopter down with a tow truck? Our resident physicist Lisa weighs in on those questions and more. There's plenty of medical jargon in the spin-off movie Hobbs & Shaw, but it turns out the physics holds up for the most part! Melissa and Lisa also interview Joy Phillips and Parag Katira from San Diego State University about the virus, immunology, and biomedical devices that make up a huge part of the plot. Find out what's realistic and what's pure fantasy! Check out and . And if you have more immunology questions! And if you haven't recently watched Jason Statham dancing in a leopard print speedo while very oily, you should . Right now. Follow Melissa Follow Lisa The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics come and go, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss the rest of our rewatch!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/29214918
info_outline
46: Science Advisors in Science Fiction LA Comic Con panel
12/19/2023
46: Science Advisors in Science Fiction LA Comic Con panel
Melissa moderates this panel of scientists who consult on everything from books and video games to the MCU and Disney animation! Panelists include paleontologist Stuart Sumida (How To Train Your Dragon, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom), registered nurse Toby Wareham (9-1-1: Lone Star, How To Get Away With Murder), physicist Clifford Johnson (Avengers: Infinity War, Paper Girls), biologist Elizabeth Rega (Strange World, The Lion King), and stem cell scientist Ron Coleman (Joe Ledger book series).Thanks to all those who came out! Show Links Follow Follow Listen to Elizabeth Rega and Stuart Sumida talk the science of Disney's Strange World on Read Cave 13 and The Werewolf's 15 Minutes to see characters based on Ronald Coleman! Watch Code Black and 9-1-1: Lone Star to see Toby Wareham's work! Here's the images Melissa and Stuart talked about! Images of Stitch courtesy of Walt Disney Feature Animations, credit: Alex Kuperschmidt. Photo credit of Darwin Sumida: Stuart Sumida. Images courtesy of DreamWorks Feature Animation. More relevant screen shots and photos coming soon on YouTube! Subscribe and never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , or wherever you get podcasts. Follow the podcast on and . Join our ! Did you miss an earlier episode? Catch up ! In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and other fields of knowledge and Star Wars!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/29008218
info_outline
45: The Science of Ahsoka panel at LA Comic Con
12/12/2023
45: The Science of Ahsoka panel at LA Comic Con
Melissa moderates this panel of Star Warsologies favorites! Sam Wynns and Gabe Santos share their critter knowledge when it comes to Loth cats and purgill! Lisa Will and Paul Wynns talk navigation from one galaxy to the next! And James brings us up to date with all the Star Wars lore sprinkled throughout the show. We had a great audience with tons of questions for us. Thanks to all those who came out! Follow and the on Instagram Follow and on Instagram Follow and on Instagram Follow and on Instagram Check out the episode on YouTube with relevant screen shots and photos! (coming soon) Subscribe and never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , or wherever you get podcasts. Follow the podcast on and . Join our ! Did you miss an earlier episode? Catch up ! In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and Star Wars!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/28950393
info_outline
8: Shift+F8 of the Furious, with a computer scientist
11/30/2023
8: Shift+F8 of the Furious, with a computer scientist
Melissa and Lisa talk about the (relatively) toned down physics nonsense in the 8th installment of the Fast & Furious franchise, Fate of the Furious. Lisa and Melissa are also joined by Bea Gandica, a computer scientist, to talk about all the hacking, ghost flights, and of course Cipher and the Gods Eye. Listen in to answers to important questions like: What does hacking look like in real life? Did Tej go to a coding boot camp at some point? Was the wrecking ball a good idea? Learn more about the free workshops on coding and cybersecurity from the Follow and Follow Melissa Follow Lisa The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics come and go, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss the rest of our rewatch!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/28820058
info_outline
7: Serious 7, with a psychologist
11/19/2023
7: Serious 7, with a psychologist
Melissa and Lisa break down the physics nonsense in Furious 7. Can you jump between skyscrapers in a car? What happens when you drop cars out of an airplane with only a parachute? Clinical psychologist Dr. Drea Letamendi joins for a discussion about grief and forgiveness. How important is found family? Should Dom be in therapy? How does Brian's ending help us process Paul Walker's death? Check out ! Follow her ! And listen to . Read for Fandom Follow Melissa Follow Lisa The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics come and go, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss the rest of our rewatch!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/28702698
info_outline
44: Paleontology
11/17/2023
44: Paleontology
James and Melissa chat about the megafauna of The Mandalorian with Dr. Stuart Sumida. Stuart is a paleontologist, a teacher, and a science consultant for movies, TV shows, and video games. He answers questions for us, including: Do mythosaurs use echolocation? How many Mandalorians would those raptor babies be able to eat in one sitting? Would riding on a horse-wolf actually be comfortable? ! Hear Listen back to at SDCC 2022 Check out Subscribe and never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , or wherever you get podcasts. Follow the podcast on and . Join our ! In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and Star Wars!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/28664558
info_outline
6: Fast & Curious 6, with a movie locations expert
10/20/2023
6: Fast & Curious 6, with a movie locations expert
Fast & Furious 6 gives us perhaps the most physics-defying hijinks of the franchise. Dom's leap of faith, him taking a bullet, and that epically long runway - there's a lot to discuss. Melissa and Lisa also chat with locations scout Kerry Patten, who worked on the movie. Hear from her about the logistics of filming a car chase in the streets of (not actually) London. . And writer is fun too. Kerry shared some great videos for people who want to learn more about location scouting and management. . . . Check out the . You can take at the National Film and Television School. Search the . Follow Melissa Follow Lisa The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics come and go, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss the rest of our rewatch!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/28360178
info_outline
43: Music and Melodies
10/17/2023
43: Music and Melodies
Let's look at the music of Star Wars! So much of what we associate with the galaxy far, far away is connected to the soundtracks composed by John Williams. We take a look at the diagetic music of the films, from the cantina band tracks to the celebratory songs by Ewoks and Gungans. We also examine the common musical themes that John Williams built into the audio DNA of the saga, as well as musical pieces that may have influenced Williams in his composition. Our guest expert is Dr. Jason Giachetti, who teaches music at the college and high school level. He has a doctorate in music education, with an emphasis on percussive instruments. In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and Star Wars! To better understand the music, Dr. Giachetti prepared a presentation that showcases the musical notation in the score, and the has his slides synched up to the podcast audio. You can on YouTube. ! Here's . Redouble our efforts indeed! Check out the that Jason mentioned. And here's the books he recommended:
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/28291739
info_outline
5: Facts Five, with city planning and visual effects experts
10/08/2023
5: Facts Five, with city planning and visual effects experts
Melissa and Lisa welcome two guest experts to cover Fast Five, the movie that really accelerates the franchise into greatness. Prison escapes, train heists, and a bank vault crashing through the streets of Rio make up the action, but the movie is also about family (of course) and reunites some of our favorite characters. A city planner and a visual effects artist who worked on Tokyo Drift join our podcast family in this high speed episode! Here's a great about the practical stunts in the bank vault sequence! And where we got ! Follow James Floyd on and . And check out his Star Wars filming location tours, ! Follow Melissa Follow Lisa The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics come and go, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss the rest of our rewatch!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/28254551
info_outline
4: Fast & Physics, with a medical doctor
09/26/2023
4: Fast & Physics, with a medical doctor
Melissa and Lisa discuss Fast & Furious, the fourth movie in the Fast saga. The car chases and stakes are finally high! Letty's (maybe) dead! Dom is bulletproof! Lots to discuss. Melissa and Lisa also welcome Dr. Jackson Vane to the show to discuss medical issues throughout the franchise, including the most important question - how are these characters even still alive??! Check out Jackson's including the ! And follow Jackson's . Follow Melissa Follow Lisa The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics come and go, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss the rest of our rewatch!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/28122542
info_outline
42: Blue Food Science
09/20/2023
42: Blue Food Science
We chat blue food in Star Wars and here on Earth, where's it's not nearly as prevelant. Dr. Changqi Liu from San Diego State University shares his expertise about flowers, berries, and other foods. But does he know why blue raspberry flavoring exists? Cook up some blue noodles, pour yourself a glass of blue milk, and enjoy! Subscribe and never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , or wherever you get podcasts. Follow the podcast on and . Join our ! Did you miss an earlier episode? Catch up ! In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and other fields of knowledge and Star Wars!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/28076082
info_outline
3: The Facts & The Furious: Toying with Drift, with a stunt driver
09/17/2023
3: The Facts & The Furious: Toying with Drift, with a stunt driver
In this episode, Melissa and Lisa chat about Tokyo Drift and interview a stunt driver. Lisa explains the physics of drifting and Melissa posits whether the saga takes place within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The movie may feel out of place, but all is forgiven because it introduces Han to the franchise. Check out the Motion Picture Driving Clinic's and on Follow Melissa Follow Lisa The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics come and go, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss the rest of our rewatch!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/28053402
info_outline
41: Voice acting and storytelling with Vanessa Marshall
08/22/2023
41: Voice acting and storytelling with Vanessa Marshall
Voice actor extraordinaire Vanessa Marshall joins us on this episode of Star Warsologies! She is the voice (and soul) of "space mom" Hera Syndulla from Star Wars: Rebels, among many other credits. We talk about the importance of found family, fandom, and template. Vanessa is such a force for good and we are so excited to geek out with her about Star Wars and tons of other topics. Enjoy! Find Vanessa on , , and ! You can visit her at one of these upcoming convention appearances: in Virginia in Savannah, GA in Tampa, FL in Mesa, AZ Also, hear her voice as Wonder Woman in season 4 of Harley Quinn ! Vanessa mentioned, with ongoing online content. And you can even . Subscribe and never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , or wherever you get podcasts. Follow the podcast on and . Join our ! Did you miss an earlier episode? Catch up ! In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and other fields of knowledge and Star Wars!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/27802599
info_outline
2: 2 Facts 2 Physics, with a legal expert
08/14/2023
2: 2 Facts 2 Physics, with a legal expert
No Dom, no problem! Lisa and Melissa dive into the physics of 2003's 2 Fast 2 Furious. Welcome Roman, welcome Tej. Don't let those pesky laws of gravity keep you down. Also weighing in is legal expert Stephen Lee, a former federal prosecutor. Hear what he has to say about Brian's terrible record as an undercover cop, can you earn a "clean record," and other ongoing leagal themes of the saga. Check out Stephen's Substack for more of his legal analysis of pop culture, including Andor, The Flash, Glass Onion, and more! Follow Melissa Follow Lisa The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics come and go, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss the rest of our rewatch!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/27719397
info_outline
40 Andor: Making a Rebel, Making a Rebellion (San Diego Comic-Con 2023 panel)
08/07/2023
40 Andor: Making a Rebel, Making a Rebellion (San Diego Comic-Con 2023 panel)
Star Warsologies hosted "Andor: Making a Rebel, Making a Rebellion", a panel at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2023. The Star Wars series Andor speaks powerfully to today’s audience about fighting oppression. Examining the first season of the Disney+ series, we will explore the motivations and actions of Cassian Andor, Mon Mothma, Luthen Rael and other characters as they put it all on the line to resist and rebel against the Empire. What type of people are drawn to stand up to tyranny? How do individual dissenters start forming movements? When can you fight inside the system, and when do you have to fight from the outside? Why does this show resonate so well at this time? Panelists include Robert A. Dagnall (MA candidate in Rhetoric and Writing Studies / instructor, SDSU), J. Dianne Dotson (sci-fi and fantasy author, producer, science writer, biologist), Dr. Drea Letamendi (psychologist at UCLA, host of the Arkham Sessions podcast), Desmond Hassing (lecturer of American Indian Studies, SDSU), Jake Rowlett (PhD candidate, SDSU/UCSB). Moderated by James Floyd (STEAMpop Network, Star Warsologies podcast, Star Wars Insider contributor). Join us as we tackle the nature of the fight to restore freedom to the galaxy. Show notes for this episode are available on Skywalking Network:
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/27661761
info_outline
1: The Facts and the Furious, with a car modifications expert
08/01/2023
1: The Facts and the Furious, with a car modifications expert
It all begins with this episode of The Facts & The Furious covering the low stakes of the first movie, 2001's The Fast and the Furious. As Melissa and Lisa realize, very few laws of physics are broken but there's still find plenty to talk about. Our guest expert is Maria Romano de Leon, curator of the San Diego Automative Museum. Learn about NOS, car culture, and why a lack of traffic may be the most unrealistic thing that happens in this movie. Follow Melissa Follow Lisa Follow the San Diego Automotive Museum and The Facts & The Furious is a podcast rewatch of the entire saga with Dr. Lisa Will (physicist) and Melissa Miller (science writer). We break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Remember, reality-based physics comes and goes, but family is forever! Subscribe so you won't miss the rest of our rewatch!
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/27609582
info_outline
39: The Science of Superpowers
07/31/2023
39: The Science of Superpowers
Here's another of our San Diego Comic-Con 2023 panels! The Science of Superpowers brought together amazing scientists to talk about how realistic superheroes and supervillains are and whether there's any version of their powers in real life. Here's video from our panel, plus slides we presented in the room. Thanks to everyone who came out and asked questions. We're so glad you found us online too, we love bringing our convention content to everyone for free! Panel Description: Humans have been fascinated with the potential to gain superpowers for generations. Would a lab accident really transform your DNA? Is it possible to harness regenerative powers from the animal kingdom? Could a mutation make you telekinetic? Hear about the up-to-date science and technology bringing humanity closer to becoming superheroes (and potentially supervillains). Melissa T. Miller (STEAMpop Network, Star Warsologies) moderates a panel of experts that includes Lataisia Jones, Ph.D. (neuroscientist), Erika Anderson, M.S. (reliability engineer), Michelle Nolasco, Ph.D. (science communication consultant, SDSU), Ester Kwon, Ph.D. (nanoscale bioengineer, UCSD), Catherine Schrankel, Ph.D. (cell biologist, SDSU), and Beata Mierzwa, Ph.D. (molecular biologist and science artist, UCSD). Ester Kwon, PhD is an assistant professor of nanoscale bioengineering at University of California, San Diego Catherine Schrankel, PhD is an assistant professor of cell biology at San Diego State University Michelle Nolasco, PhD is a molecular biologist and science writer at San Diego State University Beata Mierzwa, PhD is a molecular biologist and science artist at University of California, San Diego @beatascienceart on and Lataisia Jones, PhD is a neuroscientist at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke @HeyDrTay on and Erika Anderson, MS is a reliability engineer at Georgia Pacific @MsSTEMPossible on and Beata, Lataisia, and Erika are also AAAS If/Then ambassadors () and Star Warsologies is a podcast about science and other fields of knowledge and how they connect to Star Wars. Every episode, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller interview a guest about how their area of expetise intersects with the galaxy far, far away.
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/27607800
info_outline
38: Indiana Jones and the Nexus of Archaeology, History, and Punching Fascists (SDCC 2023)
07/29/2023
38: Indiana Jones and the Nexus of Archaeology, History, and Punching Fascists (SDCC 2023)
Star Warsologies hosted the "Indiana Jones and the Nexus of Archaelogy, History, and Punching Fascists" panel at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2023. This podcast episode contains the audio of the panel, with the slideshow images from the PowerPoint presentation. Our panelists are Bailey Jorgensen (archaeologist, Alf Museum of Paleontology), Kara Vetter (senior director of cultural resources, Museum of Us), and Dr. Becca Peixotto (archaeologist and IF/THEN ambassador). Panel description: Indiana Jones is back for more fortune and glory, and the Indy films have shaped the public’s view of the world of archaeology and artifacts for more than 40 years. Now with the release of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, let’s examine the legacy of the man with the whip and the hat. What do the Indiana Jones films get right and wrong about real world archaeological adventures? Do the antiquities collected by Dr. Jones really belong in a museum - and does he? How do historical artifacts connect to modern politics? How has Indiana Jones impacted the archaeological field? Panelists include Dr. Becca Peixotto (archaeologist, IF/THEN Ambassador), Bailey Jorgensen (historical archaeologist; collections manager, Alf Museum of Paleontology), Kara Vetter (senior director of cultural resources, Museum of Us). Moderated by James Floyd (STEAMpop Network, Star Warsologies podcast, Star Wars Insider contributor). Join our panel of globe-trotting archaeologists, historians, and cultural resource experts in discussing the science and ethics of his adventures as we follow the trail of Indiana Jones around the 20th century world. Star Warsologies is a podcast about science and other fields of knowledge and how they connect to Star Wars. Every episode, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller interview a guest about how their area of expetise intersects with the galaxy far, far away.
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/27593883
info_outline
37: Artificial Intelligence
07/14/2023
37: Artificial Intelligence
This episode, we're chatting with Gracie Ermi, and expert in machine learning. Are droids sentient? Is it ethical to wipe their memories and reprogram them? Other than the well-publicized art and writing controversies, what are some ways AI is already part of our lives? Are we close to a Star Wars level of robotic intelligence or an uprising? These are just some of the subject we cover in this episode. In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and other fields of knowledge and Star Wars! Or listen on YouTube with relevant screen shots and photos (coming soon)! Show Links Check see Gracie at the July 21-23 Follow her on and ! Got follow up questions for us or a suggestion for an -ology or expert? Email us at Subscribe and never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , or wherever you get podcasts. Follow the podcast on and . Join our ! Did you miss an earlier episode? Catch up !
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/27450648
info_outline
The Facts & The Furious: Coming Soon!
07/05/2023
The Facts & The Furious: Coming Soon!
Trailer for the new podcast The Facts & The Furious with Dr. Lisa Will and Melissa Miller. Two scientists break down each movie of the saga with help from special guest experts. Hear from a stunt driver, a medical doctor, a psychologist, a lawyer, and others fans who have something to say about how things would go down in real life. This deep dive is also a fun rewatch of all 11 Fast & Furious movies.
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/27370254
info_outline
36: Linguistics
06/21/2023
36: Linguistics
This episode, we're chatting with linguist David Peterson, who constructs languages for properties like Game of Thrones, Elemental, House of the Dragon, the MCU, and many more! He weighs in on Aurebesh as a written language, as well as Binary, Shyriiwook, Gungan, and other spoken languages. It's a fascinating conversation with someone who clearly loves talking about language. Enjoy! In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and other fields of knowledge and Star Wars! Show Links Some images of the Super Bomber text David likes are and . You can check out and "The Art of Language Invention" More information about constructed languages is available from Got follow up questions for us or a suggestion for an -ology or expert? Email us at Subscribe and never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , or wherever you get podcasts. Follow the podcast on and . Join our ! Did you miss an earlier episode? Catch up !
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/27161811
info_outline
35: Celebration Panel "Andor, the Empire, and a History of Resistance"
05/19/2023
35: Celebration Panel "Andor, the Empire, and a History of Resistance"
Star Warsologies hosted "Andor, the Empire, and a History of Resistance" panel at Star Wars Celebration Europe in April 2023 in London. Because the panel audio ended up not recorded by accident, we invited the original panelists back to re-create the panel and add some new content, just for our listeners. Coming back we have Chris Kempshall, Rebecca Harrison, Oli Mould, and Jake Rowlett. Unfortunately panelist Prof. Manuel Barcia was unable to rejoin us. Moderated by James Floyd, one of the hosts of Star Warsologies. Panel description: Star Wars is full of conflict between good and evil, and the stories of the galaxy far, far away center on that fight against oppression. Using real world history of resistance and rebellions, we will examine the entire saga and the Andor series in particular to see how and why our heroes seek to stand against the Galactic Empire in their own ways. Our panelists include Chris Kempshall (author, The History and Politics of Star Wars: Death Stars and Democracy; co-author, Star Wars: Battles that Changed the Galaxy), Rebecca Harrison (author, BFI Classics: The Empire Strikes Back), Manuel Barcia, Oli Mould, and Jake Rowlett. Join host James Floyd (Star Wars Insider regular contributor, Star Warsologies podcast) in exploring the freedom fighters that helped topple the Empire. In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and Star Wars! Show notes page: Check out the YouTube version of the panel with relevant slides from the panel presentation:
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/26882061
info_outline
34: Celebration Panel "Making Star Wars Magic"
04/26/2023
34: Celebration Panel "Making Star Wars Magic"
Here's another one of our panels from Star Wars Celebration! Melissa welcomes creatives who have worked on the movies and TV shows to share their insights and wonderful stories. Hear from Fon Davis (ILM model maker for the special editions, prequels, and The Mandalorian), Jake Lunt Davies (concept and creature designer from everything from The Force Awakens to Andor), Brian Herring (puppeteer for BB-8 and many other favorite characters), and Lee Towersey (droid wrangler at Pinewood Studios). Make sure to check out the images below and watch via YouTube to see all the amazing behind the scenes photos the panelists shared. In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and Star Wars! Follow our panelists and their research on social media! Fon Davis on and . Brian Herring on Jake Lunt Davies on and . Lee Towersey on . Got follow up questions for us or a suggestion for an -ology or expert? Email us at Subscribe and never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , or wherever you get podcasts. Follow the podcast on and . Join our ! Did you miss an earlier episode? Catch up !
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/26651694
info_outline
33: Celebration Panel "The Science of Return of the Jedi"
04/23/2023
33: Celebration Panel "The Science of Return of the Jedi"
This episode is a recording of a panel at Star Wars Celebration, hosted by James Floyd. From sarlacc biology to the physics of lightsabers and the ecosystem of Endor, Return of the Jedi is full of connections to real world science. How might a Hutt evolve? What goes into making a Death Star superlaser? Why do the Ewoks worship C-3PO? Our all-star lineup brings together experts in all sorts of fields, from paleontology and physics to meteorology and history. Join host James Floyd (Star Wars Insider regular contributor, Star Warsologies podcast) in celebrating the 40th anniversary of ROTJ with a look into its science and technology. Thanks to everyone who came to the panel and especially those who asked such great questions! Panelists include Karen Yu (optics and lasers), Manuel Barcia (history of empires), Heda Agić (paleobiology), Carsten Welsch (physics), and LeeAnn Allegretto (atmospheric science). In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by asking experts about how their field is represented in a galaxy far, far away. It's a monthly podcast about science and Star Wars! Or listen on YouTube with relevant screen shots and photos! (coming soon) Show Links Follow our panelists and their research on Twitter! , , , , and . The panel was highlighted in ! Got follow up questions for us or a suggestion for an -ology or expert? Email us at Subscribe and never miss an episode of Star Warsologies on , or wherever you get podcasts. Follow the podcast on and . Join our ! Did you miss an earlier episode? Catch up !
/episode/index/show/starwarsologies/id/26609280