Breaking Math Podcast

Autumn Phaneuf & Noah Giansiracusa
  • 1.0 (1)
  • MATEMÁTICAS
  • CADA SEMANA

Breaking Math is a deep-dive science, technology, engineering, AI, and mathematics podcast that explores the world through the lens of logic, patterns, and critical thinking. Hosted by Autumn Phaneuf, an expert in industrial engineering, operations research, and applied mathematics, and Noah Giansiracusa, a mathematician and leading voice in algorithmic literacy and technology ethics, the show is dedicated to uncovering the mathematical structures behind science, technology, and the systems shaping our future. What began as a conversation about math as a pure and elegant discipline has evolved into a platform for bold, interdisciplinary dialogue. Each episode of Breaking Math takes listeners on an intellectual journey—into the strange beauty of chaos theory, the ethical dilemmas of AI and algorithms, the hidden math of biology and evolution, or the physics governing black holes and the cosmos. Along the way, Autumn and Noah speak with working scientists, researchers, and thinkers across fields: computer scientists, physicists, chemists, engineers, economists, philosophers, and more. But this isn’t just a podcast about equations. It’s a show about how mathematics shapes the way we think, decide, build, and understand the world. Breaking Math pushes back against the idea that STEM belongs behind a paywall or an academic podium. It’s for the curious, the critical, and the creative—for anyone who believes that ideas should be rigorous, accessible, and infused with wonder. If you’ve ever wondered: What’s the math behind machine learning and modern algorithms?How do we quantify uncertainty in climate and economic models?Can intelligence or consciousness be meaningfully described in AI?Why does beauty matter in an equation?You’re in the right place. At its heart, Breaking Math is about building bridges—between disciplines, between experts and the public, and between abstract mathematics and the messy, magnificent reality we live in. With humor, clarity, and deep respect for complexity, Autumn and Noah invite you to rethink what math can be—and how it can help us shape a better future. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Website: https://breakingmath.io Linktree: https://linktr.ee/breakingmathmedia Email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

  1. The Elements of Power: Supply Chains, Technology, and Energy with Nicolas Niarchos

    21 ENE

    The Elements of Power: Supply Chains, Technology, and Energy with Nicolas Niarchos

    In this episode of Breaking Math, Autumn and Nicolas Niarchos critique the "green" narrative of lithium-ion technology. Tracing the industry from its 1991 commercialization to modern geopolitical tensions, the hosts expose the exploitation and environmental degradation inherent in global mining, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. By challenging the presumed sustainability of electric vehicles, they emphasize the need for supply chain transparency and urge listeners to adopt a more informed, ethically-conscious approach to modern consumption. Takeaways What does it really cost to power the future? The bargain as stated is clean energy in one part and at the other end, you have corruption, pollution, and human suffering. The greenest vehicle is not always the electric one; it depends on the entire lifecycle of the product. We need to improve conditions on the ground, not just extract resources. Corruption is unfortunately a fact of life and is very closely related to extraction.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:24 The Journey to Congo and Corruption 07:13 The Birth of Lithium-Ion Batteries 09:35 The Uneven Global Bargain 12:16 Mining vs. Oil: A Different Kind of Harm 13:56 Onshoring Battery Production: Challenges and Opportunities 17:13 China's Dominance in Battery Manufacturing 18:51 The Race in Battery Technology 21:39 Corruption and Poverty in the Congo 24:31 The Human Cost of Mining 29:12 Health Impacts of Mining 31:52 Colonial Legacy and Modern Mining 34:00 The Future of Battery Technology 39:12 Introduction to Complex Narratives 39:53 The Reality of Resource Extraction 39:59 Embracing Curiosity and ReflectionFollow Nick on Twitter, and you can get his 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

    40 min
  2. The Score: Gamifying the Nature of Metrics with Thi Nguyen

    14 ENE

    The Score: Gamifying the Nature of Metrics with Thi Nguyen

    In this conversation, the discussion with C. Thi Nguyen revolves around the nature of metrics, qualitative knowledge, and the duality of scoring systems, particularly in the context of climbing. The speaker shares personal experiences with climbing as a case study to illustrate how scoring systems can both enhance and detract from the experience. The conversation delves into the beauty of climbing, the subtlety of value in metrics, and the importance of savoring moments in games. It also explores the tension between purpose and game mechanics, the role of enjoyment, and the complexities of scoring systems in both games and life. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the challenges of balancing values in decision-making and the risks associated with the gamification of various aspects of life. Takeaways Metrics can miss the subtlety of qualitative knowledge. Scoring systems can enhance or detract from experiences. Climbing serves as a unique case study for scoring systems. The beauty of climbing lies in its scoring system. Values can become obscured when metrics are prioritized. Games allow for exploration of different scoring systems. Achievement play focuses on winning, while striving play values the process. External expectations can pressure individuals to conform to metrics. The addictive nature of games can lead to negative experiences.Chapters 00:00 The Intricacies of Portability and Judgment 01:12 Introduction and Social Media Presence 03:40 The Value of Climbing and Scoring Systems 07:16 The Impact of Numbers in Climbing 09:42 Savoring the Moment vs. Obsession with Scoring 10:59 Goals vs. Purpose in Games 12:39 Understanding Value Capture 17:53 The Shift in Standards of Success 20:33 The Limitations of Metrics 21:42 Games as a Reflection of Human Desire 24:37 The Purpose Behind Scoring Systems 26:07 The Magic Circle of Games 29:15 Achievement Play vs. Striving Play 34:47 When Games Become Unsafe 38:21 The Pitfalls of Portability in MetricsFollow Thi on Twitter, Bluesky, and find his website. You can get his 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

    58 min
  3. The Art of Physics: Bridging Science and Creativity with Ronald Gamble

    13 ENE

    The Art of Physics: Bridging Science and Creativity with Ronald Gamble

    This conversation explores the fascinating intersection of math, physics, and art, highlighting how these disciplines inform and inspire one another. Dr. Ronald Gamble discusses his journey as a theoretical physicist and artist, emphasizing the importance of recognizing patterns in nature and the role of creativity in scientific discovery. The dialogue delves into various topics, including the significance of symmetry in physics, the visualization of complex concepts like black holes and gravitational waves, and the influence of mathematical principles on artistic expression. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the idea that art and science are deeply interconnected, each enhancing the understanding and appreciation of the other. Takeaways Inspiration is pattern recognition. Math serves as a language to describe physics. Art and physics both seek to decode patterns in the universe. Studying nature can enhance understanding of physics concepts. Creativity is essential in theoretical physics. Symmetry plays a crucial role in understanding the universe. Art can influence scientific thought and vice versa.Chapters 00:00 The Intersection of Math, Physics, and Art 03:57 Finding Inspiration in Nature 06:16 The Art of Storytelling in Physics 08:31 Patterns in Nature and Art 10:13 The Influence of Physics on Art 12:23 Understanding Symmetry in Physics 16:46 Exploring Black Holes and Particle Physics 21:03 The Role of Tessellations in Physics 25:24 Celebrating Scientific Collaborations 27:24 The Art of Tessellation and Structure 29:06 The Power of Minimalism in Art and Science 31:05 Exploring Black Holes and Gravitational Waves 38:59 The Artistic Journey into Physics CourseFollow Ron on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Bluesky, and find his 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

    49 min
  4. Intelligent Systems: Digital Culture Shock

    19/11/2025

    Intelligent Systems: Digital Culture Shock

    In this conversation, Dr. Katharina Reinecke explores the intersection of technology and culture, discussing how cultural assumptions shape the design and functionality of technology. She delves into the implications of self-driving cars, the importance of understanding diverse user experiences, and the challenges posed by a predominantly Western perspective in technology development. The discussion highlights the need for greater cultural sensitivity in technology design and the potential consequences of ignoring these differences. Takeaways Technology is not culturally neutral; it reflects the values of its creators. Self-driving cars are based on American commuting assumptions. Cultural differences significantly impact user experience and technology design. Efficiency in technology can undermine social interactions and relationships. WEIRD populations dominate technology research, leading to biased outcomes. Universal design principles often fail when applied globally. Stack Exchange exemplifies individualistic design, contrasting with collectivist values. AI systems must be designed with cultural sensitivity to avoid reinforcing biases.Chapters 00:00 Understanding Digital Culture Shock 03:53 The Challenges of Autonomous Vehicles 06:21 Cultural Assumptions in Technology 08:37 The Impact of AI and Data Bias 10:32 Efficiency vs. Social Interaction in Design 12:14 The Concept of 'Weird' Populations 14:24 Cultural Values in Digital Platforms 21:53 The Simplicity of Design and Its Cultural Impact 22:51 Efficiency vs. Community: The Stack Exchange Debate 25:41 Adapting Global Platforms to Local Norms 31:52 The Implications of AI and Digital Infrastructure 34:34 Recognizing Cultural Bias in Technology Design 37:42 Technology as CultureFollow Katharina on Twitter, LinkedIn, Bluesky, and find her new book here. You can find Lab in the Wild on Twitter and Bluesky 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

    39 min
  5. Who is Francis Crick?

    11/11/2025

    Who is Francis Crick?

    This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Francis Crick, co-discoverer of the DNA structure. Dr.  Matthew Cobb, the guest, explores Crick's multifaceted personality, his poetic inspirations, collaborative nature, and his later pursuits in consciousness. The discussion also touches on the controversies surrounding his work, particularly regarding the contributions of Rosalind Franklin, and reflects on Crick's complex character, blending modern scientific thought with outdated socio-political ideas. Takeaways Crick's story is often simplified to his DNA discovery. He had a deep appreciation for poetry and its connection to science. Collaboration was a key aspect of Crick's success. His early life was marked by average academic performance. Crick's transition to biology was driven by a desire to understand life. The discovery of DNA was a complex, collaborative effort. Controversies exist regarding the ethics of scientific discovery. Crick's later work focused on the nature of consciousness. He had a unique blend of intuition and logical thinking. Crick's outdated socio-political views contrast with his scientific modernity.Chapters 00:00 The Legacy of Francis Crick 01:13 Introduction to Matthew Cobb and His Book 03:43 The Influence of Francis Crick 06:19 Crick's Unique Approach to Science 07:19 Crick's Early Life and Self-Perception 10:04 The Impact of Naval Service on Crick 12:34 Crick's Transition to Biology 15:06 The Role of Schrodinger's Work 17:26 The Dynamic Between Watson and Crick 20:13 The Discovery of the Double Helix 23:02 The Controversy of Rosalind Franklin's Contribution 28:23 The Diplomatic Row and Pauling's Mistake 29:38 The Discovery of DNA's Structure 34:31 Crick and Brenner's Collaboration 38:41 Crick's Exploration of Consciousness 43:03 Crick's Complex LegacyFollow Matthew on Twitter, 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

    50 min
  6. Mathematics and Humanity: The Untold Stories of the Great Math War

    04/11/2025

    Mathematics and Humanity: The Untold Stories of the Great Math War

    This conversation explores the intersection of mathematics and human experience, focusing on historical figures, philosophical debates, and the ethical implications of scientific progress. Jason Socrates Bardi discusses his book 'The Great Math War', which delves into the personal stories of mathematicians, the challenges of teaching math, and the relevance of these themes in today's world, particularly in the context of AI and misinformation. Takeaways The personal experiences of mathematicians shape their work. Philosophical clashes in mathematics reflect broader societal issues. Hilbert's optimism about problem-solving parallels today's AI discussions. Historical context is crucial in understanding mathematical developments. Ethics in science must be prioritized to avoid past mistakes. There are limits to human knowledge that we must acknowledge. Mathematics is a fundamental human skill, not just for the gifted. The future of mathematics will be influenced by AI and technology. Understanding historical fallacies can inform current practices. Kovalevsky's story is an inspiring example of overcoming barriers.Chapters 00:00 The Personal Journey Behind The Great Math War 03:08 The Philosophical Clash in Mathematics 05:13 The Great Math War: Key Players and Their Missions 07:38 The Foundations of Mathematics: Paradoxes and Theories 08:55 The Role of Historical Context in Mathematics 10:00 The Human Side of Mathematics: Stories of Resilience 12:36 Ethics in Science and the Modern Age 14:56 The Future of Mathematics and Technology 25:32 The Spectrum of Idealism and Realism 26:13 Understanding Ignoramus et Ignoramnibus 29:04 Neuroscience and the Evolution of Mathematics 33:12 The Future of AI and Consciousness 35:31 Fallacies and Paradoxes in Mathematics 38:31 The Legacy of Sofia Kovalesky 43:10 The Great Math War: A Reflection on Logic and HumanityFollow Jason on LinkedIn, Twitter, 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

    44 min
  7. The Future of Physics: Portals to a New Reality

    28/10/2025

    The Future of Physics: Portals to a New Reality

    In this conversation, Dr.Vlatko Vedral discusses the complexities of quantum mechanics and its implications for our understanding of reality. He explores the stagnation in physics, the importance of thought experiments, and the potential for new discoveries through technological advancements. Vlatko emphasizes the need for adventurous research and the role of quantum information in shaping future scientific inquiries. He also speculates on the transformative possibilities of quantum technologies and their impact on human perception. Takeaways Quantum mechanics challenges our understanding of reality. The observer effect is central to quantum mechanics. Physics has been stagnant with two main theories for over a century. Technological advancements are paving the way for new experiments. Thought experiments can guide genuine scientific discovery. The integration of quantum mechanics and general relativity is crucial. Quantum information theory expands our understanding of computation. New theories may emerge from the intersection of quantum mechanics and technology. The perception of reality may evolve with quantum technologies. Funding and research approaches need to be more adventurous.Chapters 00:00 Exploring Quantum Reality 04:48 The Stagnation of Physics 08:41 The Clouds of Uncertainty 12:46 Thought Experiments and Their Power 16:01 Five Experiments for the Future 24:54 Technological Feasibility of Experiments 28:27 Quantum Theory and Its Foundations 34:08 The Role of Quantum Information 39:35 Imagining New Realities Through PortalsFollow Vlatko on LinkedIn, Substack, and find their 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

    49 min
  8. AI vs Human Intelligence: The Emergent Mind

    25/10/2025

    AI vs Human Intelligence: The Emergent Mind

    In this conversation, Drs. Gaurav Suri and Jay Mcclelland delves into the intricate relationship between artificial intelligence and human cognition, exploring similarities and differences, the evolution of AI from rule-based systems to learning models, and the concept of emergence in both fields. The discussion also touches on the efficiency of human learning compared to AI, the role of consciousness, and the ethical implications of AI technology. Takeaways AI and human intelligence share similarities in neural network frameworks. Artificial systems lack the goal-directed nature inherent in humans. Humans learn more efficiently than current AI systems. Neural networks can adapt to language nuances better than rule-based systems. Emergence explains how collective intelligence arises from individual components. Memory in neural networks is represented through connections, not individual units. Mathematics is both invented and discovered, shaped by human needs. Understanding consciousness is crucial for AI development. Human misuse of AI poses significant risks. Recognizing ourselves as processes can foster empathy and morality.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds 01:00 AI vs Human Mind: Similarities and Differences 03:32 The Shift from Rule-Based AI to Learning Systems 09:07 Emergence in Cognition: Ant Colonies and Intelligence 15:25 Distributed Representations and Memory Storage 23:53 The Nature of Memory and Its Malleability 25:40 Emergence of Mathematical Concepts 29:50 The Invention vs. Discovery Debate in Mathematics 32:19 Learning Mechanisms: Brain vs. AI 36:48 Consciousness: Function and Implications 41:13 AI Risks: Human Misuse vs. AI Autonomy 43:45 Living with Emergence: Understanding Ourselves and Others 48:22 Exploring the Emergent MindFollow Gaurav Suri on LinkedIn. Follow Jay McClelland on Twitter and find their 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

    50 min
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Breaking Math is a deep-dive science, technology, engineering, AI, and mathematics podcast that explores the world through the lens of logic, patterns, and critical thinking. Hosted by Autumn Phaneuf, an expert in industrial engineering, operations research, and applied mathematics, and Noah Giansiracusa, a mathematician and leading voice in algorithmic literacy and technology ethics, the show is dedicated to uncovering the mathematical structures behind science, technology, and the systems shaping our future. What began as a conversation about math as a pure and elegant discipline has evolved into a platform for bold, interdisciplinary dialogue. Each episode of Breaking Math takes listeners on an intellectual journey—into the strange beauty of chaos theory, the ethical dilemmas of AI and algorithms, the hidden math of biology and evolution, or the physics governing black holes and the cosmos. Along the way, Autumn and Noah speak with working scientists, researchers, and thinkers across fields: computer scientists, physicists, chemists, engineers, economists, philosophers, and more. But this isn’t just a podcast about equations. It’s a show about how mathematics shapes the way we think, decide, build, and understand the world. Breaking Math pushes back against the idea that STEM belongs behind a paywall or an academic podium. It’s for the curious, the critical, and the creative—for anyone who believes that ideas should be rigorous, accessible, and infused with wonder. If you’ve ever wondered: What’s the math behind machine learning and modern algorithms?How do we quantify uncertainty in climate and economic models?Can intelligence or consciousness be meaningfully described in AI?Why does beauty matter in an equation?You’re in the right place. At its heart, Breaking Math is about building bridges—between disciplines, between experts and the public, and between abstract mathematics and the messy, magnificent reality we live in. With humor, clarity, and deep respect for complexity, Autumn and Noah invite you to rethink what math can be—and how it can help us shape a better future. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Website: https://breakingmath.io Linktree: https://linktr.ee/breakingmathmedia Email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

Información

  • Creador
    Autumn Phaneuf & Noah Giansiracusa
  • Años de actividad
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodios
    172
  • Clasificación
    Apto
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Breaking Math
  • Mostrar sitio web
    Breaking Math Podcast

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