Shows
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsCartography in Star Wars This episode of Star Warsologies is all about maps! We talk with Jason Fry, who helped map the galaxy far, far away in The Essential Atlas. How do you map a galaxy? Storytellers get to add their own details in movies, books, comics, TV shows, and even board games, so it's a huge job and nearly impossible to keep it all straight. Jason shares what went into creating the lore for Star Wars: The Essential Atlas and how the book is literally a childhood dream come true. It turns out a lot of...
2025-12-0246 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star Wars72: Feminism in Star Wars This episode of Star Warsologies covers feminism and gender representation in Star Wars with author and historian Becca Harrison. Becca Harrison tallied up all the screen time for female characters in Star Wars movies over the decades and even made cuts of the film with only dialogue from female characters. They get a lot more screen time these days and we talk about why that's important. We discuss feminism, gender identity, and the importance of representation when it comes to Star Wars, including within the fandom itself. Becca is a freelance academic who...
2025-11-0458 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsSpace Exploration in Star Wars This episode of Star Warsologies covers space exploration topics with an operator of the Mars rover! Katherine Winchell is an astrogeologist whose love of Star Wars has a lot to do with her career in the space program. She is also the head organizer of the upcoming Legacy Expo convention, which takes place in Burbank on September 13-14, 2025. We talk about the con (and Star Warsologies will be there!), but we also dive deep into the similarities between Mars and Tatooine and how early travelers explored the galaxy far, far away. Since Katherine...
2025-09-0249 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsStar Wars in Bulgaria In this episode of Star Warsologies, we talk to Nenko Genov, a huge Star Wars fan who grew up in Bulgaria. We met Nenko through Star Wars Celebration and it was so interesting to learn about his experience growing up in Bulgaria in the 70s and 80s. He shared how hard it was to find Star Wars content and connect with other fans. Nenko is now the Bulgarian translator for Star Wars and other comics, so we also chat about how that came about. Show Links:
2025-07-1544 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star Wars66: Anti-Fascism in Star Wars In this episode of Star Warsologies, we talk to historian and author Chris Kempshall about how Star Wars is rooted in politics and anti-fascism, and has been since the beginning. Chris Kempshall joins us to talk about the definition of fascism and how to rebel against it. Star Wars may be fiction but there's plenty of timely lessons, especially in the recently completed show Andor. How can that help us understand what's happening in American politics? Can we practice resistance in an immersive environment like Galaxy's Edge and use it to talk about...
2025-06-1752 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsScience of Disneyland, recorded at WonderCon 2025In this episode of Star Warsologies, we share the recording of Melissa's WonderCon 2025 panel "Science of Disneyland!" Panel description: Disneyland is just down the road, so let's take a virtual field trip to explore the parks from a different point of view. There's something to discover in every land - life on other planets in Galaxy's Edge, dinosaurs roaming the railroad, and majestic rock formations in Cars Land - just to name a few. There's also robotics everywhere, from the original audio-animatronics to the advanced Spider-Man that swings across Avengers Campus. Our panel of experts...
2025-06-0151 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsDroids, AI, and Sentience, recorded at Star Wars Celebration Japan In this episode of Star Warsologies, we share the recording of our our Star Wars Celebration Japan panel "Droids, Artificial Intelligence, and Sentience" Panel description: R2-D2 and C-3PO. BB-8. Battle droids. Star Wars isn't Star Wars without its lovable droids. We'll examine the science of robots, the programming of personality and the ethics of sentient mechanicals in society, plus go behind the scenes on designing droids for the movies. Why do droids in Star Wars look the way they do? Why do we all love R2-D2? How close are we...
2025-05-061h 01
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsScience of Revenge of the Sith, recorded at Star Wars Celebration Japan In this episode of Star Warsologies, we share the recording of our our Star Wars Celebration Japan panel "Science of Revenge of the Sith" Panel description: Revenge of the Sith is full of connections to real world science and technology - from droids and starfighters to the ecosystems of Mustafar and Utapau. How could we make a working lightsaber? Can you really battle over a river of lava? How would wildlife thrive on Coruscant? Are we close to making robots similar to C-3PO and R2-D2? We'll try to tackle these questions...
2025-05-041h 10
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsStar Wars Books with Tom Hoeler In this episode of Star Warsologies, we talk to Tom Hoeler, an editor of Star Wars novels and editorial director for Random House Worlds! Tom tells us how Star Wars books come into being and gives us advice for how to get started with the amazing (but daunting) content of The High Republic. We also dive into in-galaxy books and publishing, like the holo-books seen in Skeleton Crew. Who edits and publishes books? Did the Empire erase or burn all books about the Jedi? Did that lead to a renaissance after Return of...
2025-04-1447 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsLasers (and more) in Star Wars In this episode of Star Warsologies, we talk to Karen Yu about lasers! PEW PEW! This episode, we dive into lasers in Star Wars but it turns out that many of the examples are likely actually something else entirely - plasma! Though lightsabers are sometimes called laser swords, Karen breaks down the reasons that light / lasers simply wouldn't work this way. Same goes for the Death Star's mighty weapon. Somehow we also end up talking about repulsor vehicles, invisible tires, and a lot of other physics and engineering quandaries. Enjoy!
2025-03-1247 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsDentistry in Star Wars In this episode of Star Warsologies, we talk to Dr. Ryder Waldron, a dentist and huge Star Wars fan! On this episode, we talk about mouths - teeth, tongues, and lips all contribute to how an animal eats, sounds, and plays musical instruments. Do clone troopers have baby teeth or did they skip right to adult teeth? How might Max Rebo and Sy Snootles eat? Why do Sith Lords have such terrible oral hygiene? We also talk about porgs, of course! Show Links: Check out...
2025-02-1144 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsGeology of Galaxy's Edge In this episode of Star Warsologies, we talk to a geologist and paleontologist about their recent field trip to Disneyland! Garrett Vice recently led field trips into Disneyland during a scientific conference in Anaheim. So nerdy, right?! He and other geologist and paleontologists scoped out the features of Galaxy's Edge, along with other areas like Big Thunder Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and The Matterhorn. Give it a listen and, like us, you'll see the parks in a brand new light next time you visit, no matter how many times you've been before...
2024-12-1748 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsArchaeology in Star WarsDr. Samantha Porter joins us to chat about her work using lasers and other technology to map archaeological sites without disturbing them. We delves into the historical significance of the ruins of Yavin and whether it's ethical for the Rebellion to hide out there. And of course we cover Star Wars's favorite archaeologist - Dr. Aphra! We even get a little bit into ancient alien conspiracies. Show Links: Check out Samantha's website and follow her on Instagram! Check out Samantha showing off her LIDAR on the show...
2024-11-1946 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsScience of The Acolyte at Los Angeles Comic Con In this episode of Star Warsologies, we talk about all things Acolyte at Los Angeles Comic Con! We headed to LA Comic Con and talked about The Acolyte! Ecologist Sawyer Markham weighed in on all the critters! Planetary scientist Michaela Leung tells us about Brendok, Khofar, and that unknown planet! Dr. Drea Letamendi delves into the psychology! And James makes sure we're all up on the Star Wars lore (and there's a lot!). Thanks to all who came out to see us in person and to LACC for having us.
2024-10-1851 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsSpace Travel In this episode of Star Warsologies, we talk space travel with a NASA project support specialist! At San Diego Comic-Con, James struck up a conversation with Johnathan Brendle at the NASA exhibit booth and he agreed to come on the podcast! We cover tons of space travel questions, including: What are hyperspace tunnels (purgill holes maybe?)? Do you need headlights in space? Is the Death Star basically a microwave? Show Links: Follow Johnny on TikTok and Instagram! Learn more about NASA's...
2024-10-0446 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star Wars53: Urban Ecology with Sawyeurism In this episode of Star Warsologies, we're joined by Sawyer Markham to talk about urban ecology! Known as @Sawyeurism online, our expert this month breaks down her love of delving into the science of Star Wars, just like hosts James and Melissa. Sawyer talks the effects of urbanization and climate change on reptiles and amphibians and also shares some of her science education fun facts, like the Hutts having pouches like marsupials and why the son of Hera and Kanan has green hair. Above all, we learn that life finds a way!
2024-07-2340 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsCar Culture in Star Wars In this episode of Star Warsologies, we're joined by the curator of the San Diego Automotive Museum and chat about ships, speeders, and other vehicles in Star Wars! What does the state of the Millennium Falcon say about Han Solo, especially since we know it was much nicer when Lando owned it? Why is it important that the Imperial and Rebel are so distinct from each other? Maria Romano de León answers these questions and shares insights about vehicles and culture throughout Star Wars, including a way to think about those shiny s...
2024-05-2836 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsEnvironmental 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...
2024-04-2241 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsEmpathy 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...
2024-03-2538 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsConflict 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...
2024-02-2050 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsAnthropology 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...
2024-01-2346 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsScience 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 Clifford Johnson on Instagram Follow...
2023-12-1952 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsThe Science of Ahsoka panel at LA Comic ConMelissa 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 Dr. Lisa Will and the Fleet Science Center on Instagram Follow Paul Wynns and Flex Air on Instagram Follow Gab...
2023-12-121h 05
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsPaleontologyJames 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? Follow Stuart on Twitter! Hear Stuart's interview on NPR's Short Wave podcast Listen back to episode 22 when Stuart joined our Jurassic World panel at SDCC 2022 Check out the nature documentaries we made for S...
2023-11-1751 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsMusic and MelodiesLet'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...
2023-10-1753 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsFacts Five, with city planning and visual effects expertsMelissa 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 behind the scenes video about the practical stunts in the bank vault sequence! And where we...
2023-10-081h 16
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsBlue 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! More about butterfly pea flower lemonade! More about color-changing gin! Find out more about Changqi's research! Subscribe and never miss an episode...
2023-09-2044 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsVoice acting and storytelling with Vanessa MarshallVoice 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 Joseph Campbell's hero's journey 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 Twitch, Instagram, and Twitter! You can visit her at one of these upcoming convention appearances:
2023-08-2240 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsThe Science of SuperpowersHere'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 re...
2023-07-311h 02
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star Wars38: 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...
2023-07-2955 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsArtificial 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...
2023-07-1444 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsLinguistics 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...
2023-06-2142 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsCelebration 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...
2023-05-191h 14Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsCelebration 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...
2023-04-271h 01Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsCelebration 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...
2023-04-231h 03
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsZoology and Creature Design This episode we talk to concept and creature artist Terryl Whitlatch about her amazing designs for creatures in the Star Wars Special Editions and Episode I. Are there reptomammals on Earth or did Terryl just invent that term? Why was the sando aqua monster her favorite creature to design? What's your favorite Star Wars critter? 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...
2023-03-2844 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsDance and Choreography This episode we talk about dancing and choreography in Star Wars with Nicholas Foote, a professional dancer. We chat Ewoks, Gungans, and Wookiees. Do Hutts have a mating dance? Do Bothans get the zoomies? And is the ballet in Revenge of the Sith really called Squid Lake?! 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...
2023-03-0445 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsHerpetologyThis episode we talk about reptiles and amphibians in Star Wars with Dr. Earyn McGee. There's plenty of examples on Tatooine and Dagobah to discuss and we learn more about Earyn's research here on Earth. As always, the best advice is...don't touch it and definitely don't lick it! 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...
2023-02-0738 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsIndigenous Peoples This episode we look at the representation of Indigenous people in Star Wars. From the Tuskens to the Ewoks, there's examples in the original trilogy and that lore is still being expanded 45 years later in shows like The Book of Boba Fett. Cultural educator Jared Ten Brink joins us to share his connection to Star Wars and the positive and negative ways culture and colonization are depicted. 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 ab...
2023-01-2136 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsClimate ScienceNASA climate scientist Dr. Kimberley Miner and Walter Beckwith, a science writer at Science Magazine, chat with us about how the Empire affects the planets and environments in a galaxy far, far away. We tackle Bespin, Hoth, Dagobah, and other favorite locales. 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...
2022-12-2141 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsLA Comic-Con - "The Living Force: Evolution in Star Wars"In the latest episode of Star Warsologies, Melissa joins the LA Comic Con panel "The Living Force: Evolution in the Star Wars Galaxy"! Gabe Santos of Cosplay for Science moderates this great panel about Star Wars. Panelists include Melissa Miller (Nerdist, Star Warsologies), Michaela , Phil , Rick O'Connor 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 an...
2022-12-1351 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsMolecular & Cellular Biology In this latest episode of Star Warsologies, we talk about all molecular and cellular biology in Star Wars! Let's look at the DNA of Star Wars! You might not expect Star Wars to connect to the world of molecular and cellular biology (the field of biology looking at things at the cellular level and smaller), but it does in a few key ways: the genetic manipulation and cellular development that goes into making clones like Boba Fett as well as midichlorians and their real-life inspiration, mitochondria. We examine the microscopic world of living cells in t...
2022-11-2246 min
Strong SongsYear Four, In ReviewKirk takes a look back some of his many musical memories from Strong Songs, Year Four.FEATURED/DISCUSSED:"Blood and Thunder" by Mastodon from Leviathan, 2004"Gotta Get You Into My Life" by Paul McCartney/Lennon-McCartney, as covered by Earth, Wind & Fire in 1978"Eleanor Rigby" by Paul McCartney/Lennon-McCartney, as covered by Cody Fry in 2021 and Zoot in 1970"Second Story" by Andrew Synowiec from Second Story, 2020Andrew Synowiec on Instagram"Just What I Needed" by Ric Ocasek and The Cars from The Cars, 1978"You Might Think" by Ocasek/The Cars from Heartbeat City, 1984Various compositions by Koji...
2022-11-1849 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsAdoption in Star Wars In this latest episode of Star Warsologies, we talk about all adoption in Star Wars! From the Skywalker twins going to separate homes as children, to Mandalorian Din Djarin taking on baby Grogu as a foundling, Star Wars is full of adoption tales and styles. In honor of November being National Adoption Awareness Month, we examine the world of adoption and family in the galaxy far, far away. Our guest expert Carrie Goldman, author of the award-winning blog "Portrait of an Adoption" and the Jazzy's Quest books, chats with us about ho...
2022-10-2843 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsHolograms in Star Wars! In the latest episode of Star Warsologies we talk about the holograms in Star Wars! From Leia's iconic plea to Darth Vader Force-choking someone over Zoom, our guest expert Thomas Conner breaks down what's a hologram and what we just call holograms. And how Star Wars really changed the game in 1977. 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 mo...
2022-10-0546 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsMedicine and Star Wars In the latest episode of Star Warsologies we team up with the hosts of "Hi Everbody! A Bad Medicine Podcast" Guests Dr. Jackson Vane and Johnny Kolasinksi join us to talk bacta tanks, lightsaber wounds, and why Darth Vader is taller than Anakin Skywalker. 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!...
2022-09-0938 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsSDCC Panel - The Science of Jurassic WorldPresenting "The Science of Jurassic World" This episode of Star Warsologies is one of our panels from San Diego Comic-Con 2022! Star Warsologies usually focuses on the galaxy far, far away, but for San Diego Comic-Con, we decided to branch out from a long time ago to 65 million years ago with this panel on the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World franchise, given that the final chapter, Jurassic World Dominion was released earlier this summer. Moderated by podcast host James Floyd, we brought out a group of scientists to talk about the science behind making dinosaurs and having them run amok...
2022-08-0254 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsSDCC Panel: The Mandalorian: Under the Helmet The latest episode of Star Warsologies is one of our panels from San Diego Comic-Con 2022! Presenting "The Mandalorian: Under the Helmet" We recorded this panel at San Diego Comic-Con on July 23, 2022. Moderated by host Melissa Miller, we brought out a group of experts to talk about where real-life jobs collide with our favorite Mandalorian's story. Panel description: The Mandalorian is a complicated character—a loner who becomes a loving caretaker, a bounty hunter who learns compassion. Host Melissa Miller (Nerdist, Star Warsologies) talks with experts about the man b...
2022-08-0151 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsDon Bies Part 2 The latest episode of Star Warsologies wraps up our interview with Don Bies, an actual Star Warsologist! Don Bies joined James and Melissa just after Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2022 for an extensive chat about his time as an ILM model maker, Lucasfilm archivist, and all around Star Wars creative. In part 2, we get some great on-set stories covering Don's on-screen appearances, including the infamous Boba Fett scene from Return of the Jedi's Special Edition! Listen to part one, which covered everything R2-D2 related. In Star Warsologies, hos...
2022-07-1443 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsDon Bies, Part 1 The latest episode of Star Warsologies is part one of our interview with Don Bies, an actual Star Warsologist! Don Bies joined James and Melissa just after Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2022 for an extensive chat about his time as an ILM model maker, Lucasfilm archivist, and all around Star Wars creative. Part one covers everything R2-D2 related. From operating the droid to character appearances, hear it straight from Don! R2 is his favorite character, and Melissa's too. Part 2 is coming soon with more of this wonderful interview. Topics include Don's on...
2022-06-2839 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsCelebration Panel - The Science of Attack of the Clones The latest episode of Star Warsologies is one of our panels from Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2022! Panel description: From clonetroopers to planetary rings to Anakin's moral struggles, Attack of the Clones is full of connections to real world science. How might seismic charges work? Can you really accelerate clone growth? What would an ocean planet like Kamino be like? How healthy is Anakin and Padmé's relationship? Our all-star lineup of experts include Fon Davis (prequel model maker, Fonco), Dr. Drea Letamendi (psychologist, Lattes with Leia podcast), Dr. Jim Lehane (geologist, Talk...
2022-06-071h 10Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsCelebration Panel - Galactic Critters Big & Small The latest episode of Star Warsologies is one of our panels from Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2022! Videos of the wildlife documentaries are available on our YouTube channel! From the desert of Tatooine to the abyss of Naboo, wildlife is everywhere in Star Wars. Creatures big and small capture our attention and leave us curious to know more. Science writer Melissa Miller (Nerdist, Star Wars Insider) brings together a panel of experts to speculate about everything from dianogas to porgs, womp rats to purgills, the Zillo beast to rathtars. Clips of these wonderful critters will be...
2022-06-031h 04Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsEconomics It's the long-awaited economics episode of Star Warsologies on exploring the taxation of trade routes in outlying systems! This time we examine various aspects of economics in the galaxy far, far away with not one, but two economists, Alex Parret, PhD (econometrics), and Elizabeth Molly Maloney, PhD candidate (microeconomics and labor market discrimination). How does the galactic economy work? Can you hide the money trail on a project as big as the Death Star? Will Republic credits do fine in the Outer Rim or do you need a better currency? And the big question everyone i...
2022-05-0443 min
Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsReligion and Star Wars This episode of Star Warsologies explores faith, religion, and the Force This time we examine religious beliefs and practices in the galaxy far, far away with Fr. Andrew Kinstetter, a Roman Catholic priest in the diocese of Cheyenne, Wyoming. What is monasticism and how do the Jedi practice it? Why would the Ewoks worship C-3PO as a golden god? How does spirit of the law vs. letter of the law play out with Din Djarin's Children of the Watch sect? What's wrong with the Jedi Code? We also learn how Catholic priests have a master/apprentice c...
2022-04-0844 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsWildlife Conservation This episode of Star Warsologies explores the world of conservation biology. Joining us in our discussion of wildlife conservation in the galaxy far, far away is Sam Wynns, a conservation biologist and science educator for Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego. In a huge galaxy, how would you select which places and species to protect? With all the interplanetary travel, are there any native species left? How do sarlaccs reproduce? Is there a real world explanation for why wampas and tauntauns are so large? We also learn why New Zealand is tops in protecting their u...
2022-03-0245 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsMilitary History The latest episode of Star Warsologies examines the "Wars" of "Star Wars" Andrew Liptak, historian, writer, and sci-fi geek chats with us about how real world military history connects with the galaxy far, far away. How did 20th century conflicts shape what we see in Star Wars (and how does Star Wars in turn affect 21st century military thought? Why is it important to humanize the clonetroopers (and to a lesser extent, battle droids?) We also examine the importance of leaders seeing the big picture and...
2022-02-0829 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsAir Traffic Control The latest episode of Star Warsologies focuses on managing air (and space) traffic in Star Wars! Brendan Conboy, a designer of air traffic control systems, joins us for a discussion about how coordinating space traffic might work and not work in the galaxy far, far away. How do aircraft interact with the controllers at an airport? How did the shuttle Tydirium manage to land in the forest without the Empire noticing? What redundant systems might keep the system working even when Anakin clips the tower while crash landing on Coruscant? What is that lonely guy up in t...
2022-01-1235 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star Wars"Science of Star Wars" at SDCC Special Edition We have a special episode of Star Warsologies! This episode is our "Science of Star Wars" panel at San Diego Comic-Con: Special Edition, from November 27, 2021. Our "Science of Star Wars" panel at Comic-Con: Special Edition 2021 had several awesome guests! Fon Davis (creative director, Fonco Studios) shared behind-the-scenes knowledge from working on over 40 feature films, including the Star Wars prequels. Scientists included Lisa M. Will, PhD (astrophysics professor, San Diego City College), Frank Santana (herpetologist, San Diego Natural History Museum), Amit K. Patel, PhD (ophthalmologist, University of California San Diego), and Melissa Miller (science writer, Star Wars Insider m...
2021-12-0857 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsProsthetics The latest episode of Star Warsologies focuses on limb replacement and prosthetics in Star Wars! Dr. Gerald Stark, senior clinical specialist and prosthetician for Ottobock, joins us for a discussion about bionic limbs, exoskeletons, and other prosthetics and orthotics. How close are we to Luke's bionic hand in real life? How is the work of a prosthetician much more than just fitting a replacement body part? How do Paralympians go for designs that exceed human functionality? We also talk about General Grievous, clonetrooper Echo and even prosthetics for llamas and other animals! Tune in...
2021-11-0535 min
Talkin’ Tauntauns - A Star Wars DiscussionComic-Con Science of Star Wars PanelDue to the Halloween weekend, we're taking a break this week. But not to worry! You're still getting that sweet, sweet Star Wars content. Our very own Jim Lehane participated in a San Diego Comic-Con panel this summer entitled "The Science of Star Wars" and you get to enjoy it today. The panel was hosted by Melissa Miller and James Floyd of StarWarsologies, sponsored by Andrea Decker and the Fleet Science Center, and also had astronomer Dr. Lisa Will, astrobiologist Angela Zoumplis, and concept designer Jake Lunt Davies. The panel covered a wide range of topics from binary star...
2021-11-0252 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsAstronomy and Star Wars The latest episode of Star Warsologies focuses on astrophysics in Star Wars! Astrophysics professor Dr. Lisa Will joins us for a discussion about planets, moons, and asteroids. She breaks down just what the phrase "a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away" actually means in terms of space and time as we know it. We also learn about real-life planets and moons with mono-climates, but there's still plenty that's fantasy! What would Lisa do if she had one fandom wish? Tune in to find out! Lisa also joined us for our Co...
2021-10-1237 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsJournalismThe latest episode of Star Warsologies focuses on recording history in Star Wars! Join us for a discussion with journalist and historian Chelsea Tatham Zukowski. Learn about the important role of journalism in a just society and how the Empire managed to erase the history of the Jedi. Chelsea talks about what beat she would like to work, and why Anakin would be on any good journalist's speed dial. 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 t...
2021-09-2446 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsBrewing in Star Wars The latest episode of Star Warsologies focuses on alcohol and brewing in Star Wars! Join us for a discussion with Reed Miller about brewing, fermentation, and distilling. What we see in cantinas and casinos isn't the full story. 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! Listen to Star Warsologies 6: Bre...
2021-09-0840 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsPsychology The latest episode of Star Warsologies focuses on psychology in Star Wars! Join us for a discussion with Dr. Drea Letamendi about the psychology of our favorite characters in Star Wars. How is The Mandalorian coping with the knowledge that he was raised in a cult? How does Leia handle her grief? And why is Kylo Ren so emo? Drea's thoughts on pop culture characters is endless and insightful. In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd and Melissa Miller combine their love of Star Wars with their keen interest in all things academic by ask...
2021-08-1835 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsComic-Con@Home Panel!A special bonus episode of Star Warsologies is up! Star Warsologies comes to Comic Con At Home 2021! Thanks to The Fleet Science Center in San Diego for hosting this great panel, The Science of Star Wars. James and Melissa moderate a panel of three scientists (geologist, biologist, and astronomer, oh my!) plus a concept designer who has worked on all five of the recent Star Wars films! Come for the insights into the salt flats of Crait, the mysteries of Kessel, and the scientific method itself, stay for the porg recipes and a discussion of the morality of...
2021-07-2656 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsEngineering for Space TravelThe latest episode of Star Warsologies is up! Electrical engineer Justin Gagne joins us to chat about designing technology to go into space. What starts as a discussion of real-life ion engines also covers radiation exposure, landing telemetry, and even quantum entanglement. Justin worked on the Mars helicopter Ingenuity and does a great job helping all us non-physicists and engineers understand these concepts. More info about ion engines and small satellites. More info about how Perseverance landed on Mars. More info about space radiation. Ch...
2021-07-1641 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsLife at the ExtremesPolar biologist Angela Zoumplis joins us for an episode all about life at the extremes. What do tauntauns eat to maintain their large size? How is life adapted to the heat of Mustafar? And how does that space slug survive in an asteroid when ships aren't flying right down its throat? It turns out there are similarities to bacterial life here on Earth in each of these cases. Our guest astrobiologist is an expert and a huge Star Wars fan so we geek out about these topics and more! In Star Warsologies, hosts James Floyd a...
2021-06-3034 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsEcology of DagobahIt's the second episode of Star Warsologies! In the NEW podcast 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. The newest addition to the Skywalking Network brings you a monthly podcast about science and Star Wars. For our second episode, we are off to Dagobah with restorative ecologist Traci Degerman, who has worked for the US Forest Service and National Park Service at Mount Ra...
2021-06-0829 minStar Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsGeology & Paleontology on TatooineWelcome to the debut episode of 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. The newest addition to the Skywalking Network brings you a monthly podcast about science and Star Wars. Up first, an interview with geologist and paleontologist Dr. Jim Lehane focusing on Tatooine. Did you know the Krayt dragon skeleton in A New Hope is a cast of a real dinosaur? Or that the la...
2021-05-1943 minTalkin’ Tauntauns - A Star Wars DiscussionScience and Star WarsToday the Talkin' Tauntauns crew is down one member with JJ off helping his future in-laws, but have no fear because we're joined by two guests today, Melissa T. Miller and James Floyd, from the upcoming Star Warsologies podcast. Join us for a discussion about what excites and interests us about science and technology in Star Wars and how Star Wars' science and technology has influenced our world. We also talk about Melissa and James' upcoming podcast, where our very own Jim will be talking the geology and paleontology of Tatooine on its very first episode. ...
2021-05-181h 02Star Warsologies: A Podcast About Science and Star WarsAbout Star Warsologies!Star Warsologies is a Podcast about Science and Star Wars! From archeology to zoology, real-world science is everywhere in Star Wars! Every episode of Star Warsologies will include 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. Coming to you monthly on the Skywalking Network. Our social media links: https://twitter.com/StarWarsologies https://www.instagram.com/starwarsologies/ https://www.y...
2021-05-1201 min
Skywalking Through Neverland: Keeping the Star Wars Magic AliveDisneyland, The Bad Batch, Star WarsologiesNot only did a NEW Star Wars Disney+ show "The Bad Batch" premiere, but we also attended the Grand Reopening of Disneyland after a 412-day closure! Also on this episode - Melissa Miller and James Floyd join us to share a NEW podcast debuting on the Skywalking Network: Star Warsologies. The Bad Batch "Aftermath" Did you watch this 70-minute premiere episode? Good, because we talk spoilers! Richard and I share our thoughts on the pacing, animation and new character Omega. Also, where is this series going? Let's speculate. Disneyland Reopening
2021-05-061h 27Skywalking Through Neverland: Keeping the Star Wars Magic AliveDisneyland, The Bad Batch, Star WarsologiesNot only did a NEW Star Wars Disney+ show "The Bad Batch" premiere, but we also attended the Grand Reopening of Disneyland after a 412-day closure! Also on this episode - Melissa Miller and James Floyd join us to share a NEW podcast debuting on the Skywalking Network: Star Warsologies. The Bad Batch "Aftermath" Did you watch this 70-minute premiere episode? Good, because we talk spoilers! Richard and I share our thoughts on the pacing, animation and new character Omega. Also, where is this series going? Let's speculate. Disneyland Reopening
2021-05-061h 27Skywalking Through Neverland: Keeping the Star Wars Magic AliveDisneyland, The Bad Batch, Star WarsologiesNot only did a NEW Star Wars Disney+ show "The Bad Batch" premiere, but we also attended the Grand Reopening of Disneyland after a 412-day closure! Also on this episode - Melissa Miller and James Floyd join us to share a NEW podcast debuting on the Skywalking Network: Star Warsologies. The Bad Batch "Aftermath" Did you watch this 70-minute premiere episode? Good, because we talk spoilers! Richard and I share our thoughts on the pacing, animation and new character Omega. Also, where is this series going? Let's speculate. Disneyland Reopening
2021-05-061h 27