6 Degrees of Cats

Did you know that we share a whopping 90% of our homogeneous genetic material with…cats? That’s actually more than man’s other best friend! And in the Season 2 finale for 6 Degrees of Cats - the world’s #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast - we make the case to promote our pets - especially our cats - as full-time family, full stop. Join us in conversation with a family sciences professor, a family therapist and a kids’ podcast host as we dive deep into what “family” is, and isn’t - and why. By the end of this episode, you’ll notice and appreciate the strength and length of your own family ties, including those with your cat! Tune in and share with your family, near and far! Special thanks to Bjorn and Trip at the National Council on Family Relations and Dr. Stephanie Coontz. The producers also thank Dr. Regina Morantz-Sanchez, professor emeritus at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. This episode is dedicated to the memories of William O. and Stephanie M. Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Referenced episodes: Cats Are the Consummate Domesticate: Origins and Evolution of Our Feline Friends5 Ways to Say ”I Love Mew”: Using the 5 Love Languages…With Your Cat?The Purr-fect Life: Cats, Kantian Ethics and Karma! About the experts: Korean Adoptee Adoptive Family Network (KAAN)Transitions Therapy, PLLCWest Michigan Asian American Association (WMAAA)Stoopkid Stories Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Music Leathered: "Look Alive", “Break it Down” and “Nothing But Love” © 2022 Logo design: Research used: https://pearlsbuck.org/about/biography/Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community

…as in, stringed instruments! Brace yourselves for a high-strung episode connecting your favorite pet to three distinct stringed instruments in this episode of 6 Degrees of Cats, the world’s #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, science and history podcast. What is "cat gut" – and is it truly derived from feline materials, as rumored? Join Amanda “Captain Kitty” B. in this culturally informed and historically resonant investigation into the history of the banjo with Hannah Mayree, co-founder of the Black Banjo Reclamation Project, and gain a sense of appreciation for the past, present, and future of this very American instrument. And learn about another instrument it often accompanies, the violin, from Canadian-Romanian musical polymath and documentarian Joenne Dumitrascu, a lifelong violinist who helps clarify what is, and isn’t, making those strings sing. Then, we revisit Japan to speak to an expert on the shamisen, a three-stringed lute-like instrument that carries with it over 600 years of Japanese history and an ongoing message from the past. By the end of the episode, which of these instruments, if any, is embodied by cats? Listen and find out! Please note: While vivid imagery of deceased animals is not - and will never - be included, listeners who are more sensitive to the topics of animal death may wish to check out other 6 Degrees of Cats episodes, as referenced below. Join us on this historical trip through time across three continents to gain a deeper sense of appreciation, nuance, and context for the banjo, the violin, and the shamisen – and their connection to cats! Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Referenced episodes: Cool Cat: How Cats Are the Soul of Rock 'n' RollThe Purr-fect Life: Cats, Kantian Ethics and Karma! Referenced materials: 6 Degrees of Cats: Banjos, Violins and Shamisens YouTube playlist About the experts: http://hannahmayree.com Special thanks to the Willie Mae Rock Camp community, Mr. Tony Thomas and Camille Pajor and Rebecca Stein. Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Music Leathered: "Look Alive" © 2022 Logo design: Research used: Thomas, T. (2011, June). About the banjo by Tony Thomas. About the Banjo [reprinted via Black Banjo Gathering]. https://usslave.blogspot.com/2011/06/blog-post.html Urban Native Collective. (n.d.). Turtle Island. https://urbannativecollective.org/turtle-island

Dive into the purr-fect harmony between cats and rock 'n' roll in this episode of 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast. Explore the untold stories of how these enigmatic creatures have influenced the genre. From legendary rock icons like Freddie Mercury and David Bowie who found inspiration in their feline friends to the timeless melodies that echo the spirit of independence and liberation by Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Ma Rainey and - yes - Tracy Chapman, appreciate the hidden connections between cool cats and the soulful rhythms of rock 'n' roll. We’ll be joined by not one, not two, but THREE award-winning rock stars! ‘My Cat From Hell’ star, musician and international cat advocate Jackson Galaxy shares how cats purr-fectly fit into his rock ‘n’ roll persona - and still do! Leading R&B musician and guitarist Malina Moye explains how cats have informed and inspired her artistry, and acclaimed music journalist and former Das Fürlines guitarist Holly George-Warren provides historic and cultural insights as to how, and why, cats are the rock stars of the animal kingdom. We'll talk jive about blues, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll and hepcat slang - as well as about American history - in this fact and fret-filled episode. Tune in for a fur-resh take on music history and cat appreciation! 🐾🎸 Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Referenced episodes: Cats vs Cupid: Why Cats are the Better Valentine’s Day MascotDid You Know the Vikings had Cats? Magic, Freya and Norse Folklore Referenced materials: Fast CarChili’s Babyback Ribs Commercial BTS videoCharles Mingus Cat Toilet Training Program (1954)Cab Calloway's Hepster's Dictionary (1939)6 Degrees of Cats: Cool Cat YouTube Playlist About the experts: https://www.hollygeorgewarren.com Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Music Leathered: "Look Alive", “Break it Down” and “Nothing But Love” © 2022 Logo design: Research used:

Who is a cat person? What is the essence of feline fandom and who exactly are the literal and figurative cat people among us? Listen and find out on the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast! Celebrate the Lunar New Year (Happy Year of the Dragon) or Têt, with us in Vietnam, where we discover a unique breed of cat people with the help of Austin-based comic Ivy Le of the FOGO: Fear of Going Outside podcast. Ivy is joined by audio producer, artist and educator TK "Keisha" Dutes and Cat Person social media manager Tracy Michelle, as we debunk stereotypes, challenge cultural and racial assumptions and redefine what it means to be a cat person - while advocating for everyone's rightful place alongside Taylor Swift as an iconic figure of our tribe. Prepare to embrace your inner cat person of the 21st Century and join the revolution! Tune in now for a purr-fectly engaging discussion that will change the way you see feline companionship forever. Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Referenced artifacts: Cats vs Dogs map Referenced episodes: Felines & Fatherhood: Exploring Masculinity, Father’s Day, and the Unique Bond Between Men and CatsCats vs Cupid: Why Cats are the Better Valentine’s Day MascotCats Are the Consummate Domesticate: Origins and Evolution of Our Feline Friends [Pilot] About the experts: ivylewithonee.com ohheytracy.com Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Music: Leathered: "Look Alive" © 2022 Logo design: Research used:

Discover the fascinating origins of internet culture in this episode of 6 Degrees of Cats, the worlds #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history, science and - in this instance - tech podcast. Did you know that pizza was the very first item ever bought and sold online? Or that approximately 1% of all internet activity revolves around adorable cat photos and videos? While some of these facts may not be independently verifiable, it's undeniable that cats and pizza have become iconic symbols of the worldwide web. Join us on an entertaining journey into the depths of host Captain Kitty (a.k.a. Amanda B.)'s psyche as she explores the intertwined relationship between felines and pizza. Alongside Roberta's Pizza alumni and renowned pizza consultant Anthony Falco, delve into the reasons behind this peculiar connection. Special guest Maria Bustillos, a prolific writer and expert on cat internet culture, sheds light on the unique charm of online communities and the pivotal role of cats within them. Prepare to immerse yourself in the quirky, captivating world of internet folklore, where pizza, cats, and eccentricity reign supreme. Together, let's celebrate the delightful weirdness that makes the internet such a vibrant and fascinating place. Tune in for a truly enjoyable and enlightening exploration of pizza, the internet, and our beloved feline companions in this wonderfully weird episode! Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Referenced artifacts: Image of the original Geocities Hamsterdance pagePizzaNet original formThe (alleged) first cat video posted on YouTube Referenced episodes: Cats Are the Consummate Domesticate: Origins and Evolution of Our Feline Friends [Pilot]Did You Know the Vikings had Cats? Magic, Freya and Norse FolkloreCats vs Cupid: Why Cats are the Better Valentine’s Day Mascot About the experts: https://thebrick.househttps://mariabustillos.com/https://www.piz.za.com Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Music: Leathered: "Look Alive" © 2022 Logo design: Research used: https://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/26/technology/in-a-big-network-of-computers-evidence-of-machine-learning.htmlhttps://www.statista.com/chart/26884/languages-on-the-internet/

Join us as we celebrate the Winter Solstice, also known as Yule and explore the intriguing tale of Iceland’s legendary Yulecat and revisit the captivating history of Viking settlements in Iceland on this episode of the world's #1 cat-themed culture, history and science podcast, 6 Degrees of Cats. In this illuminating discussion, led by renowned Iceland folklore expert Terry Gunnell, Ph.D., discover why the typically cat-loving Icelanders avoid encountering this colossal cat, and gain insights from journalist Haukur S Magnússon on strategies to evade its clutches. Musician Júlía Hermannsdóttir shares her childhood experiences immersed in these captivating folktales. By the end of this episode, uncover the deeper significance behind this seasonal folklore - it’s a revelation that goes beyond mere storytelling. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Icelandic folklore and traditions intertwined with the Winter Solstice and Christmas! Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Referenced episodes: Did You Know the Vikings had Cats? Magic, Freya and Norse FolkloreWitches, Whiskers and Whisky: Re-introducing the Original Cat Lady of Halloween! About the experts: Terry Gunnell, Ph.D.Júlía HermannsdóttirOyama Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Music: Leathered: "Look Alive" © 2022 Logo design: Research used: https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/people-cultures-in-the-bible/jesus-historical-jesus/how-december-25-became-christmas/

Dive DEEP into the meaning of life...through cats...with the help of experts in Western and Eastern philosophy on this episode of 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast. Dr. Abigail Levin, an animal ethics professor at Niagara University, returns to the podcast to explore our duty through deontological (say that five times fast!) ethics according to one Immanuel Kant, after a few false starts with the fathers of so-called Western philosophy: Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Dr. Levin, a practicing Buddhist, is joined by fellow Buddhist and animal ethicist Janet Gyatso, Professor of Buddhist Studies at Harvard Divinity School, whose lifelong love of cats and compassion for animals provide a focused lens on cats and Buddhism. You will be as enlightened as host Captain Kitty (Amanda B.) by the end of this playful and profound episode in which we assess the life we have chosen for our pets - and the life they might have chosen if they had their say. Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Referenced episodes: The Golden Age of Cats: The Medieval Middle East, Muezza and the Mark of Muhammad (or Mary)Community CATalysts: Kosovans Caring for Their Animal Survivors About the experts: Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Music: Leathered: "Look Alive" © 2022 Logo design: Research used: https://www.discovermagazine.com/the-sciences/how-the-ancient-code-of-hammurabi-reveals-a-society-both-similar-and-alien

We all know cats were considered gods (well, god-adjacent) in ancient Egypt - but did you know that nearly 2 billion people in today's world still consider them in connection to their religion? Find out more here at 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 cat-themed culture, history and science podcast. In this episode, we set sail across oceans of, um, water and time to Islam's Golden Age, a period marked by innovation and artistic brilliance in the Near East aka the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) aka Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA). Religious scholar Dr. Megan Goodwin sets us up for this historical journey by providing historical context for Europe's Dark Ages and their misguided anti-feline decrees. She is joined by Dr. Ali Olomi, our Islamic history expert, as he unpacks the significance of cats in the region during that era and sheds light on why they continue to hold a special place in the Islamic world. Discover the profound connection between caring for cats, all animals, and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, as demystified by Dr. Olomi. Season 1's guest, Catholicism researcher René Ostberg, shares a delightful anecdote affirming our podcast's theme that everything is interconnected. Come for the fascinating cat facts, and stay for the enlightening exploration of Islam's Golden Age (which was also a Golden Age for Cats, at least on that side of the world.) Complete our anonymous LISTENER SURVEY and sign up for a limited edition free 6 Degrees of Cats postcard! Go to https://tinyurl.com/6Doc-postcard23 Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Photo of Binky’s “M Referenced episodes: Witches, Whiskers and Whisky: Re-introducing the Original Cat Lady of Halloween!A Mother’s Tail: Introducing St. Gertrude, the Patron Saint of Cats (and Her Mom) About the experts: Head on HistoryMegan Goodwin, Ph.D.Keeping it 101: A Killjoy’s Introduction to ReligionAbusing Religion: Literary Persecution, Sex Scandals, and American Minority ReligionsRené Ostberg Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Music: Leathered: "Look Alive" © 2022 Logo design: Research used: https://historycollection.com/thou-shalt-not-suffer-a-cat-to-live-why-pope-gregory-ixs-vox-in-rama-implicated-cats-in-devil-worship/https://www.history.com/news/cats-ancient-egypt

We are back for Season 2 of "6 Degrees of Cats," the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed history, culture, and science podcast just in time for Halloween! Learn about the original cat ladies and what they really were brewing in those cauldrons - as well as what the heck was up with those hats. Learn about weird trivia, women’s history and whisky brewing with Dr. Megan Goodwin, host of hit religion and history podcast “Keeping It 101” who gets to the heart of the witch trope; food historian and author of “Endangered Eating” Sarah Lohman who explains the origins of the witch costume; and Kings County Distillery founder and writer Colin Spoelman, who introduces us to distillery cats Carlos and Jeffy. Celebrate the launch of season two on this special haunted holiday for an alternative history of the original crazy cat lady - the witch. Witch podcast (BBC) Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Referenced episodes: Cats Are the Consummate Domesticate: Origins and Evolution of Our Feline Friends [Pilot]Did You Know the Vikings had Cats? Magic, Freya and Norse Folklore About the experts: Kings County DistilleryDEAD DISTILLERS: A History of the Upstarts and Outlaws Who Made American SpiritsAbusing Religion: Literary Persecution, Sex Scandals, and American Minority ReligionsEndangered Eating: America's Vanishing Foods Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Music: Leathered: "Look Alive" © 2022 Logo design: Research used: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/women-used-dominate-beer-industry-until-witch-accusations-started-pouring-180977171/ https://qz.com/1201502/japanese-internment-camps-during-world-war-ii-are-a-lesson-in-the-scary-economics-of-racial-resentmenthttps://distiller.com/articles/new-irish-whiskey-distilleries https://www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk/about/about-whisky/historyhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/news/animalia/wp/2016/10/31/the-spooky-history-of-how-cats-bewitched-us/ https://www.sbdistillery.com/blog/2021/2/14/whiskey-or-whisky-the-water-of-life-etymology

6 Degrees of Cats, your new favorite cat-themed culture, history and science podcast hosted by lifelong cat custodian Captain Kitty, aka Amanda B. launches in one week on October 31 (Halloween!) Please follow @6DegreesofCats on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, sign up for the mailing list at linktr.ee/6degreesofcats and tell all your friends to subscribe now! Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and more here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. 謝謝, gracias, 감사합니다. धन्यवाद, merci beaucoup, ありがとう, dziękuję, asante, شكرا لكم, danke schön, thank you so much... _^..^_ Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Featured voices: Malina MoyeSarah LohmanMegan Goodwin, Ph.D.Keeping It 101 PodcastJackson Galaxy Featured tracks: Leathered: "Look Alive" © 2022 Logo design:

GREAT NEWS EVERYONE! Save the date for Halloween, 6 Degrees of Cats Season 2 drops October 31! Turn on your notifications for 6 Degrees of Cats to be the first to listen when it drops. In the meantime, we are thrilled to share with you a fun, uplifting, and thought-provoking conversation that your favorite #1 cat-themed culture, history and science podcast host, Captain Kitty (“Amanda B.” when off-mic) had for the season finale of the Nuances Podcast. Featuring guest experts from across the Asian diaspora on topics like comedy, religion, feminism, media and history, Nuances is one of Amanda’s favorite knowledge- and nuance-packed longform podcasts. Listen in on this dynamic discussion with Nuances’ host Lazou Lee to get to know a little more of your favorite host's backstory - and learn about topics like power-based interpersonal violence prevention*, intersectionality and Amanda’s hot take on the limits of empathy for behavior change. Listen to Nuances wherever you get your podcasts, or follow @nuancespod on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and LinkedIn. Show notes and transcript for this episode can be found at https://nuancespod.com/2023/09/24/amanda-b/. Thank you, Lazou! And everyone - we can’t wait to see you in a few weeks! If you love 6 Degrees of Cats, please help keep us going! You can support the podcast by signing up for The Captain’s Log and pledging your support, and subscribing and following us at these links: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. And for a limited time only, the team will send you a free limited edition postcard for listeners in the United States, Canada and Mexico who take five minutes to complete this survey: https://tinyurl.com/6Doc-postcard23. * If you, or someone you know, has been harmed by power-based interpersonal violence such as sexual, or intimate partner violence (also called "domestic violence"), please visit this link for English-language resources available to North Americans. There is never an excuse, and we can all prevent and interrupt violence in our spaces. And to consult with Amanda on pro-social bystander intervention and other ways to be an ally to survivors, please visit tinyurl.com/Ask4Amanda. Music: Leathered: "Break it Down" © 2010 Logo design:

It's the season 1 finale of "6 Degrees of Cats," the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast! And just in time for Father's Day, the team explores the remarkable and often overlooked bond between men and cats. Join us as we uncover fascinating insights, starting with Niagara University professor of philosophy Abigail Levin’s commentary on the gender stereotypes applied to cats, and the remarkable hunting skills they exhibit. We're also joined by Gabe García, a DEI analyst and LGBTQ+ youth advocate, who helps us delve into the origins of gender-based stereotypes and labels that Tony Porter of “A Call to Men” collectively refers to as "The Man Box" and led to the misconception that men can't have cats. Additionally, friend of the podcast and returning TNR celebrity Sterling "TrapKing" Davis shares his experiences in educating communities about trap/neuter/return while promoting a broader understanding of masculinity and its relationship with cats. Throughout, host Captain Kitty herself reminisces about her late father, who exemplified masculinity and fatherhood through his care for her and her cats during her childhood. Tune in to this special episode as we celebrate Father's Day and unravel the multifaceted connections between masculinity, cats, and personal experiences that challenge societal norms. Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. About the experts: OkaySotrapkinghumane.org Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Music: Leathered: "Look Alive" © 2022Leathered: “Indictment” © 2010 Provided with permission: Cats Are Better Than Dogs Logo design: Research used: https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.1500391https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/hearing_loss/what_noises_cause_hearing_loss.html https://www.discoverwildlife.com/animal-facts/mammals/hunting-success-rates-how-predators-compare https://www.acalltomen.org/healthy-manhood

Welcome back to part two of a two-part series on cats and science on 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast. We continue our fascinating journey with biophysicist Kareem Elsayad, Ph.D., based in Vienna, as he unveils the fundamentals of quantum mechanics and demystifies the significance of Schrodinger's cat - a thought experiment that has intrigued minds for decades. Joining Dr. Elsayad is materials scientist Titilayo Shodiya, Ph.D., an expert familiar with the diverse states of matter, including liquid, solid, collapsed, and more, in which cats astonishingly exist. Additionally, we are thrilled to introduce rising young researcher Kaeden Henry and co-investigator Kerry Hyde, who have employed the scientific method to conduct an innovative study that promises to ignite spirited conversations among cat owners worldwide. Check out part 1 here! Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and more here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. About the experts: Dope LabsDoes Your Cat’s B***hole Really Touch All The Surfaces In Your Home? Reference image: Adam Ellis "Books of Adam" cat meme Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Opening and closing credits: Leathered: "Look Alive" (c) 2022 Logo design: Research used: https://stemfellowship.org/the-ig-nobel-prize-why-are-

This episode of 6 Degress of Cats, the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast is part one of a two-episode series on cats and science! In part 1, we take a cue from cats and let our curiosity lead us through an exploration of how science and cats go hand in hand - er, paw in paw. Join your host as she welcomes a stellar lineup of scientists - and comes to a slightly scientific conclusion of her own about cats! Materials scientist Titilayo Shodiya, Ph.D., host of hit pop science podcast Dope Labs and Vienna-based biophysicist Kareem Elsayad, Ph.D., share their insights on the invaluable role curiosity plays in hypothesis-driven research and break down the basics of scientific methodology. And writer and physicist Greg Gbur, Ph.D., of hit pop science book, “Falling Felines and Fundamental Physics” provides a fun survey of cats’ partnerships with scientists across time. Get ready to - once again - see cats in a whole new light. Check out part 2 here! Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and more here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Reference image: Nicola Tesla’s letter about Macek the cat About the experts: Skulls in the StarsFalling Felines and Fundamental PhysicsInvisibility: The History and Science of How Not to Be SeenDope Labs Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Opening and closing credits: Leathered: "Look Alive" (c) 2022 Logo design: Research used:

It's Mother's Day and we are here for it on 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast. In this episode, get ready for the motherload - in which we delve into the topic of motherhood through the captivating story of St. Gertrude of Nivelles, the Belgian abbess and (alleged) patron saint of cats. Joining our host is Catholic culture researcher René Ostberg, M.A., who guides us through the life of St. Gertrude, her relationship with cats, and the pivotal role of motherhood in her story. Alongside René, we have returning guest and doula Jade Hillery, M.P.H., and media professional and working mom, Alem Tedeneke, M.A., who share their unique perspectives on motherhood, from the physical to the spiritual and emotional dimensions of mothering. Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and more here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Reference image: Cat meme on St. Gertrude (source: unknown) About the experts: Jade F. Hillery, MPH, CD (DTI)Aaliyah in ActionThe Good Black PodcastRene Ostberg Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Opening and closing credits: Leathered: "Look Alive" (c) 2022 Logo design: Research used:

All aboard 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast. In this episode, we'll be delving into the relationship between Vikings and cats, with insights from leading experts in archaeology, folklore, and historical research. The team welcome archaeologist Brenda Prehal, Ph.D., who shares her knowledge of Viking settlements and the discovery of cat remains in their homes. Norse folklore leading expert Terry Gunnell, Ph.D., also provides insights into the role of cats in Viking mythology and culture. And historical research and writer Molly Dowdeswell sheds light on the everyday lives of Vikings and their furry companions. Join us as we uncover the softer side of the Vikings and their love for cats, in this episode of 6 Degrees of Cats. Special thanks to Laurie Friedriksen of Scandinavia House. Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and more here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. About the experts: Molly Dowdeswell, M.A.,The CollectorRural HistoriaAncient OriginsTerry Gunnell, Ph.D.Brenda Prehal, Ph.D., M.A., M.Phil,Skagafjörður Heritage Museum Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Opening and closing credits: Leathered: "Look Alive" (c) 2022 Logo design: Research used: The Concept of the GoddessRoutledgeISBN0-415-19789-9ASPCA Complete Guide to Cats: Everything You Need to Know About Choosing and Caring for Your PetSan FranciscoChronicle Books128–129ISBN978-0-8118-1929-9Universal pictures. (2022). The Northman. Roma

In this episode of 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast, the team heads to Eastern Europe to understand ways young nations are building inclusive communities that value not only humans, but also felines, canines, and other animals. Listen in as Ares Shporta, a cultural leader in Prizren, describes the history of Kosovo and why efforts to restore the Lumbardhi Theatre to its post-war condition has fostered a community where all neighbors – human and animal – are welcome. Filmmaker Kaltrina Krasniqi shares how her passion for caring for stray and abandoned animals led to the creation of Pristina’s most popular bookstore-café, Dit’ e Nat’, and its most beloved feline resident. Meanwhile, animal rights legal activist Elza Ramadani discusses the strides she and her colleagues at Animal Rights Foundation Kosovo (ARF) have made to ensure that animals are recognized as valuable members of the community in Kosovo, Europe's youngest nation. Learn a bit more about the history of this young nation through an inspiring exploration of how feline advocacy and animal welfare are making a positive impact on communities in Kosovo and beyond. Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. Featured voices: Vera Dreams of the Sea Oral History KosovoAnimal Rights Foundation Kosovo - ARFLumbardhi Foundation Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Opening and closing credits: Leathered: "Look Alive" (c) 2022 Logo design: Research cited:

Do our cats really love being held and loved and squeezed and kissed? Find out in this episode of 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast. With the help of two certified cat behaviorists and a reproduction and sexuality educator, we apply a popular contemporary human psychology construct to investigate how cats experience, and express, affection and love. Feline training and behavior pro Jennifer van de Kieft offers insights into how cats communicate their feelings and preferences, while reproductive and sexual health educator Jade F. Hillery, M.P.H., provides context for the five love languages. To round out the conversation, cat cognition researcher Kristyn Vitale, Ph.D., weighs in on what the media gets right - and wrong - about cats' affection for humans. Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. About the experts: Jade F. Hillery, MPH, CD (DTI)Aaliyah in ActionThe Good Black PodcastCat Advocate LLCMaueyes Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Opening and closing credits: Leathered: "Look Alive" (c) 2022 Logo design: Research cited:

Welcome to 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast. From a playful yet rigorously researched angle, join host Amanda B. and her team as we explore the fascinating world of felines and their connections to history, culture, and more. Starting with the question: ARE CATS ACTUALLY DOMESTICATED? In our first episode, renowned anthro archaeologist Melinda Zeder, Ph.D., and Netflix star animal cognition expert Kristyn Vitale, Ph.D. educate and correct understandings of our little haus panthers. With their help, discover the true definition of domestication and the possible regions where domestic cats may have originated. And correct common misconceptions about cat behavior and intelligence, helping us understand domestication behaviors and their implications on (cat)titude! Join us as we journey across time and regions to appreciate how cats are THE consummate domesticate. Special thanks to Christina Choi, Graham Griffith, Rekha Murthy, Natalie Tulloch and Jane Zumwalt. Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and more here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. About the experts: archaeologistNational Museum of Natural HistorySmithsonian Institutionzooarchaeologicalanimal domestication Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Opening and closing credits: Leathered: "Look Alive" (c) 2022 Logo design: Research used: Journal of Anthropological Research10.1080/00988157.1982.9977605

Be our Valentine! In this episode of 6 Degrees of Cats, the world's #1 (and only) cat-themed culture, history and science podcast - well - we’ve always known that cats are cuter than babies, wings or not. But! Did you know that cats are actually symbols of love for many ancient cultures? Well, some call it love. Listen on! In this episode, host Amanda B. interviews Sterling “Trapking” Davis of Trapking Humane Cat Solutions, Amy No of Brooklyn's The 5 Kittens Rescues, and Danielle Mackay, a classics lecturer and writer at Rhodes University. Join us as we explore the question of just how fertile cats are, and take a journey back in time to ancient Egypt and Greece to discover why cats have a stronger claim to being Valentine's Day mascots than the traditional figure of Cupid - and how felis catus deserves a bigger place in our hearts and minds. Support the podcast, sign up for The Captain’s Log, the companion podcast newsletter and learn about way$ to help keep this ship afloat for our next season here: linktr.ee/6degreesofcats. About the experts: Producer, writer, editor, sound designer, host, basically everything* * with co-executive producers Binky & Snuggles Animal voices include: Opening and closing credits: Leathered: "Look Alive" (c) 2022 Logo design: Research cited: http://www.thecollector.com/artemis-greek-goddess/