Breaking Math Podcast

In this conversation, economist Dr. Victoria Bateman discusses the critical role of women in shaping economic prosperity throughout history. She argues that women's choices, independence, and labor have been overlooked in traditional economic narratives. The discussion covers various themes, including the impact of women's marriage decisions on population control, the relationship between women's independence and technological advancements, and the historical marginalization of women in economic history. Bateman emphasizes the importance of recognizing women's contributions to economic growth and the need for policies that support women's rights and independence. Takeaways Chapters Follow Dr. Victoria Bateman on Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram, Website, and find her new book here. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter, BlueSky, and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this conversation, Marcus Du Sautoy explores the intricate relationship between mathematics and various forms of art, including music, literature, and visual arts. He discusses how mathematical concepts such as prime numbers, symmetry, and randomness influence creative processes and artistic expressions. Through examples from renowned artists like Shakespeare and Dali, Du Sautoy illustrates how mathematics serves as a blueprint for understanding and creating art, while also emphasizing the emotional and aesthetic dimensions of both fields. Takeaways Chapters Follow Professor du Sautoy on Twitter, BlueSky, and find his new book here. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter, BlueSky, and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this conversation, Eugenia Cheng discusses the importance of making math accessible and engaging for everyone, particularly those who have been discouraged by traditional education methods. She emphasizes the intersection of math and art, the dangers of oversimplifying complex issues with numbers, and the need for a more nuanced understanding of equality and fairness in society. Cheng also highlights the significance of mentorship and the impact of gender dynamics in mathematics, advocating for a more inclusive approach to learning and appreciating math as a creative and thoughtful discipline. Takeaways Chapters Follow Eugenia on Twitter, BlueSky, and on her Website Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter, BlueSky, and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

This week’s episode isn’t our usual deep dive—it’s a behind-the-scenes update. On Monday, Breaking Math vanished from Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and more without warning. After digging in, we discovered a strange RSS glitch that merged our feed with another podcast. In this quick update, Autumn shares: Breaking MathFollow Breaking Math online: Website: https://www.breakingmath.io/ YouTube: youtube.com/@breakingmathpod Twitter/X: @breakingmathpod Bluesky: breakingmath.bsky.social Instagram: @breakingmathmedia Facebook: Breaking Math Community Thanks for sticking with us—we’ll be back with a brand-new episode on Tuesday.

In this conversation, Dr. Daryl Fairweather, chief economist at Redfin, discusses her book “Hate the Game,” that frames life and career decisions as strategic games. She emphasizes the importance of understanding economic principles to navigate personal and professional challenges, negotiate effectively, and reclaim agency in various aspects of life. Fairweather shares insights on overcoming barriers related to race and gender, the impact of information asymmetry, and the significance of designing one's own path in a competitive environment. The conversation highlights the necessity of introspection, strategic thinking, and the ability to adapt in a world that often feels rigged against certain individuals. Takeaways Chapters Follow Daryl on Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram, LinkedIn and on her Website Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter BlueSky, TikTok, and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this conversation, Autumn and Dr. Anthony Bonato explore the fascinating world of networks, discussing their significance in various fields, including mathematics, social interactions, and even the spread of diseases like COVID-19 in his new book Dots and Lines. Anthony shares his journey into network science, the importance of understanding networks in everyday life, and how they can reveal hidden connections. The discussion also touches on popular culture references, such as Game of Thrones and Survivor, to illustrate the practical applications of network theory. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the need to embrace mathematics and recognize the pervasive role of networks in our lives. Takeaways Chapters Follow Anthony on Twitter, and on his Website Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode of Breaking Math, Dr. Noah Giansiracusa discusses his book 'Robin Hood Math', emphasizing the importance of mathematical literacy in navigating an algorithm-driven world. He explores how math can empower everyday people, the writing process behind his book, and practical applications of math in daily life, including social media algorithms and financial decisions. The conversation highlights the simplicity of the math that truly matters and encourages listeners to reclaim agency through understanding mathematics. Takeaways Chapters Follow Noah on Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram, LinkedIn and on his Website Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr. Christoph Bartneck discusses the intersection of swimming and computer science, exploring how mathematical patterns can enhance swim training. He introduces the concept of a formal swim markup language to improve data exchange and training efficiency. The discussion also delves into the visualization of swimming techniques, the importance of mental engagement in training, and the aesthetic appeal of mathematics. Christoph shares insights on the challenges of writing his book and his vision for creating a global community around swimming and mathematics. Takeaways Chapters Follow Christoph on his YouTube Channel and on bartneck.de. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode of Breaking Math, Autumn explores the complex world of AI ethics, focusing on its implications in education, the accuracy of AI systems, the biases inherent in algorithms, and the challenges of data privacy. The discussion emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations in mathematics and computer science, advocating for transparency and accountability in AI systems. Autumn also highlights the role of mathematicians in addressing these ethical dilemmas and the need for society to engage critically with AI technologies. Takeaways Chapters Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, we explore the intricate mathematics behind Sp0tify's (ok... and other's) shuffle feature, revealing how it is designed to feel random while actually being carefully curated. We discuss the psychological implications of randomness, the Fisher-Yates shuffle algorithm, and how engineers have created a system that respects human perception of randomness. The conversation delves into the philosophical aspects of curated randomness and the broader implications of mathematical principles in technology and human experience. Takeaways Chapters 00:00 The Hidden Mathematics of Spotify Shuffle 05:56 The Art of Psychological Randomness 07:58 Philosophical Implications of Curated Randomness Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

This conversation explores the intricate relationship between mathematics and artificial intelligence (AI) for people who don't want to get too math heavy and want things simplified as much as possible. It delves into how algorithms, machine learning, and various mathematical tools like linear algebra, calculus, and statistics form the backbone of AI technologies. The discussion highlights real-world applications of AI, the ethical implications of its use, and the importance of mathematical literacy in an increasingly AI-driven world. Ultimately, it emphasizes that understanding the mathematical foundations of AI empowers individuals to engage meaningfully with technology and its impact on society. Takeaways: Chapters: 00:00 The Mathematical Heart of AI 03:28 Mathematics in Action: Real-World Applications 05:33 Empowerment Through Understanding Mathematics Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

This conversation delves into the intersection of quantum computing and cryptography, focusing on the implications of quantum computers for current encryption methods and the necessity for post-quantum cryptography. Dr. Dustin Moody from NIST discusses the threats posed by quantum computing, particularly through Shor's algorithm, and the ongoing efforts to develop new cryptographic standards that can withstand these threats. The discussion also covers the role of NIST in standardizing post-quantum algorithms, the mathematical challenges involved, and the importance of preparing businesses for the transition to these new systems. All opinions are of the individual scientist and do not reflect the opinions of NIST or the federal Government. Takeaways Keywords quantum computing, cryptography, post-quantum cryptography, NIST, cybersecurity, Shor's algorithm, digital signatures, lattice-based algorithms, encryption, quantum threats Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, Autumn interviews Dr. Ileana Pazos, an expert in dosimetry, discussing the critical role of radiation measurement in various industries, including healthcare and food safety. They explore the science behind dosimetry, the applications of radiation, the challenges faced in accurate measurements, and the misconceptions surrounding food irradiation. Ileana emphasizes the importance of public education and the need for global standards in radiation measurement, while also sharing her personal connection to the field and the future of radiation technologies. All opinions are of the individual scientist and do not reflect the opinions of NIST or the federal Government. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this conversation, Dr. Elizabeth Strychalski discusses the fascinating field of synthetic biology, particularly focusing on synthetic cells. She shares her journey into this research area, the challenges of defining life, and the ethical considerations surrounding synthetic biology. The conversation also explores the potential applications of synthetic cells in environmental science and medicine, as well as the importance of engineering standards and biomanufacturing for sustainability. Dr. Strychalski emphasizes the need for collaboration and communication in the scientific community to advance this field responsibly and effectively. All opinions are of the individual scientist and do not reflect the opinions of NIST or the federal Government. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode of Breaking Math, hosts Autumn and Gabriel explore the innovative intersections of fire science and technology with experts Amy Mensch and Ryan Falkenstein-Smith who work at NIST. They discuss the groundbreaking photoacoustic technique for measuring soot deposition, its applications in fire safety and forensic investigations, and the broader implications for fire research. The conversation highlights the importance of integrating advanced technologies into firefighting and the potential for future developments in the field. You can learn more about Time at time.gov and NIST at nist.gov. All opinions are of the individual scientist and do not reflect the opinions of NIST or the federal Government. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode of Breaking Math, Autumn and Andrew Novick delve into the intricate world of timekeeping, exploring the significance of precise time measurement in modern technology. They discuss the evolution from traditional atomic clocks to cutting-edge optical clocks, the critical role of time in various industries, and the implications of time on fundamental physics, including Einstein's theories. The conversation also touches on the quirky concept of leap seconds and the future advancements in timekeeping technology, emphasizing the relative nature of time and its perception. You can learn more about Time at time.gov and NIST at nist.gov. All opinions are of the individual scientist and do not reflect the opinions of NIST or the federal Government. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Follow Gabe on Twitter. Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

Summary This episode of Breaking Math explores the fundamental concept of measurement, its importance in daily life, and the necessity for standardized units. The discussion highlights the role of the International System of Units (SI) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in maintaining measurement accuracy. It also touches on historical measurement failures and the evolution of measurement definitions, emphasizing the future of measurement in technology and science. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Follow Gabe on Twitter. Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, Dr. Destine Nock, CEO of Peoples Energy Analytics and a Professor at Carnegie Mellon University, joins Autumn to dive deep into the world of energy equity. They explore how cutting-edge data analytics are revolutionizing the landscape of affordable energy access. As the global demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to grow, the need to ensure fair and inclusive energy distribution becomes more critical than ever. Together, our hosts break down how data-driven insights are being leveraged to develop and implement policies that make energy more accessible to underserved communities, tearing down socioeconomic barriers and paving the way for a more equitable future. Dr. Nock and Autumn discuss the powerful role that advanced analytics play in everything from analyzing consumption patterns to optimizing renewable energy distribution. They explore real-world case studies, highlight key initiatives, and speak with experts who are at the forefront of these transformative efforts. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how strategic use of data can drive lasting change and help us build a world where energy is not a privilege but a right accessible to all. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Dr. Destenie Nock on LinkedIn and on her website. Check out Peoples Energy Analytics as well. Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Follow Gabe on Twitter. Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this captivating episode of Breaking Math, hosts Gabriel and Autumn dive deep into chaos theory—a fascinating branch of mathematics that explores the behavior of complex systems highly sensitive to initial conditions. They break down the butterfly effect, revealing how tiny variations can lead to major consequences and discuss the inherent unpredictability in weather forecasting and the financial markets. The episode also uncovers chaos theory’s influence on human physiology, such as heart rate variability, and the mathematical beauty of fractals. Additionally, the hosts explore philosophical viewpoints, emphasizing how accepting life’s uncertainties can foster adaptability and resilience. Key Takeaways: Chaos Theory: Small actions can trigger significant outcomes, impacting everything from nature to human-made systems. Butterfly Effect: Demonstrates how tiny differences in initial conditions can lead to vastly different outcomes. Weather Forecasting: An excellent real-world illustration of chaos theory, showing how unpredictable weather can be. Financial Markets: A reminder of the chaotic, complex forces that drive economic shifts and unpredictability. Human Physiology: Chaos theory sheds light on natural processes, like the variability of heart rhythms. Fractals: These intricate patterns showcase self-similarity and are visually striking examples of chaos in nature. Philosophical Implications: Embracing chaos and uncertainty equips us to be more adaptable and creative. Life's Unpredictability: A reflection of chaotic systems, reminding us to value flexibility. Interconnectedness: Understanding chaos theory enhances our appreciation of how interwoven our world truly is. Keywords: Chaos Theory, Butterfly Effect, Weather Forecasting, Economics, Fractals, Unpredictability, Complex Systems, Human Physiology, Philosophical Implications, Adaptability. Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Follow Gabe on Twitter. Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode of Breaking Math, we dive deep into the transformative power of large language models (LLMs) like GPT-4 in the fields of chemistry and materials science, based on the article "14 examples of how LLMs can transform materials science and chemistry: a reflection on a large language model hackathon" by Jablonka et al. from the Digital Discovery Journal. Discover how AI is revolutionizing scientific research with predictive modeling, lab automation, natural language interfaces, and data extraction from research papers. We explore how these models are streamlining workflows, accelerating discovery, and even reshaping education with personalized AI tutors. Tune in to learn about real-world examples from a hackathon where scientists used LLMs to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in materials science and chemistry—and what this means for the future of scientific innovation. Keywords: GPT-4, large language models, AI in chemistry, AI in materials science, predictive modeling, lab automation, AI in education, natural language processing, LLM hackathon, scientific research, molecular properties, Digital Discovery Journal, Jablonka Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram Follow Gabe on Twitter. Become a guest here email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com