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Breaking Math Podcast

Author: Autumn Phaneuf

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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 Gabriel Hesch, an electrical engineer (host from 2016-2024) with a passion for mathematical clarity, the show is dedicated to uncovering the mathematical structures behind science, engineering, technology, and the systems that shape 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—whether it’s into the strange beauty of chaos theory, the ethical dilemmas of AI, the deep structures of biological evolution, or the thermodynamics of black holes. Along the way, Autumn and Gabriel interview leading thinkers and working scientists from across the spectrum: computer scientists, quantum physicists, chemists, philosophers, neuroscientists, and more.

But this isn’t just a podcast about equations—it’s a show about how mathematics influences the way we think, create, build, and understand. Breaking Math pushes back against the idea that STEM belongs behind a paywall or an academic podium. It’s for the curious, the critical, 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?
  • How do we quantify uncertainty in climate models?
  • Can consciousness be described in AI?
  • Why does beauty matter in an equation?

Then you’re in the right place.

At its heart, Breaking Math is about building bridges—between disciplines, between experts and the public, and between the abstract world of mathematics and the messy, magnificent reality we live in. With humor, clarity, and deep respect for complexity, Autumn and Gabriel 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

162 Episodes
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Tom Chivers [https://tomchivers.com/] discusses his book 'Everything is Predictable: How Bayesian Statistics Explain Our World' and the applications of Bayesian statistics in various fields. He explains how Bayesian reasoning can be used to make predictions and evaluate the likelihood of hypotheses. Chivers also touches on the intersection of AI and ethics, particularly in relation to AI-generated art. The conversation explores the history of Bayes' theorem and its role in science, law, and medicine. Overall, the discussion highlights the power and implications of Bayesian statistics in understanding and navigating the world.  The conversation explores the role of AI in prediction and the importance of Bayesian thinking. It discusses the progress of AI in image classification and the challenges it still faces, such as accurately depicting fine details like hands. The conversation also delves into the topic of predictions going wrong, particularly in the context of conspiracy theories. It highlights the Bayesian nature of human beliefs and the influence of prior probabilities on updating beliefs with new evidence. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the relevance of Bayesian statistics in various fields and the need for beliefs to have probabilities and predictions attached to them. Takeaways * Bayesian statistics can be used to make predictions and evaluate the likelihood of hypotheses. * Bayes' theorem has applications in various fields, including science, law, and medicine. * The intersection of AI and ethics raises complex questions about AI-generated art and the predictability of human behavior. * Understanding Bayesian reasoning can enhance decision-making and critical thinking skills. AI has made significant progress in image classification, but still faces challenges in accurately depicting fine details. * Predictions can go wrong due to the influence of prior beliefs and the interpretation of new evidence. * Beliefs should have probabilities and predictions attached to them, allowing for updates with new information. * Bayesian thinking is crucial in various fields, including AI, pharmaceuticals, and decision-making. * The importance of defining predictions and probabilities when engaging in debates and discussions. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math [https://www.patreon.com/breakingmath] for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter [https://www.patreon.com/breakingmath], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/], Website [https://breakingmath.io/] Follow Autumn on Twitter [https://x.com/1autumn_leaf] and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/] Folllow Gabe on Twitter [https://x.com/TechPodGabe]. email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
Summary **Tensor Poster - If you are interested in the Breaking Math Tensor Poster on the mathematics of General Relativity, email us at BreakingMathPodcast@gmail.com In this episode, Gabriel Hesch and Autumn Phaneuf interview Steve Nadis, [https://www.discovermagazine.com/author/snadis/1] the author of the book 'The Gravity of Math [https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/steve-nadis/the-gravity-of-math/9781541604292/].' They discuss the mathematics of gravity, including the work of Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein, gravitational waves, black holes, and recent developments in the field. Nadis shares his collaboration with Shing-Tung Yau and their journey in writing the book. They also talk about their shared experience at Hampshire College and the importance of independent thinking in education.  In this conversation, Steve Nadis discusses the mathematical foundations of general relativity and the contributions of mathematicians to the theory. He explains how Einstein was introduced to the concept of gravity by Bernhard Riemann and learned about tensor calculus from Gregorio Ricci and Tullio Levi-Civita. Nadis also explores Einstein's discovery of the equivalence principle and his realization that a theory of gravity would require accelerated motion. He describes the development of the equations of general relativity and their significance in understanding the curvature of spacetime. Nadis highlights the ongoing research in general relativity, including the detection of gravitational waves and the exploration of higher dimensions and black holes. He also discusses the contributions of mathematician Emmy Noether to the conservation laws in physics. Finally, Nadis explains Einstein's cosmological constant and its connection to dark energy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Book Overview 08:09 Collaboration and Writing Process 25:48 Interest in Black Holes and Recent Developments 35:30 The Mathematical Foundations of General Relativity 44:55 The Curvature of Spacetime and the Equations of General Relativity 56:06 Recent Discoveries in General Relativity 01:06:46 Emmy Noether's Contributions to Conservation Laws 01:13:48 Einstein's Cosmological Constant and Dark Energy Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math [https://www.patreon.com/breakingmath] for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter [https://www.patreon.com/breakingmath], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/], Website [https://breakingmath.io/] Follow Autumn on Twitter [https://x.com/1autumn_leaf] and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/] Folllow Gabe on Twitter [https://x.com/TechPodGabe]. email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
Summary:  The episode discusses the 10,000 year dilemma, which is a thought experiment on how to deal with nuclear waste in the future.  Today's episode is hosted by guest host David Gibson, who is the founder of the Ray Kitty Creation Workshop [https://www.youtube.com/@RayKitty]. (Find out more about the Ray Kitty Creation Workshop by clicking here [https://mrdave.raykitty.com/]).   Gabriel and Autumn are out this week, but will be returning in short order with 3 separate interviews with authors of some fantastic popular science and math books including: * The Gravity of Math:  How Geometry Rules the Universe [https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/steve-nadis/the-gravity-of-math/9781541604292/] by Dr. Shing-Tung Yau and Steve Nadis.    This book is all about the history of our understanding of gravity from the theories of Isaac Newton to Albert Einstein and beyond, including gravitational waves, black holes, as well as some of the current uncertainties regarding a precise definition of mass.  On sale now!   * EVERYTHING IS PREDICTABLE: How Bayesian Statistics Explain Our World [https://www.netgalley.com/widget/516523/redeem/23dc460e436c2d0582e559b4d84ee909cf774accba78999f2291a8f97813bae0] by Tom Chivers.  Published by Simon and Schuster.   This book explains the importance of Baye's Theorem in helping us to understand why  highly accurate screening tests can lead to false positives, a phenomenon we saw during the Covid-19 pandemic; How a failure to account for Bayes' Theorem has put innocent people in jail; How military strategists using the theorem can predict where an enemy will strike next, and how Baye's Theorem is helping us to understang machine learning processes - a critical skillset to have in the 21st century. Available 05/07/2024 * A CITY ON MARS: Can we settle space, should we settle space, and have we really thought this through? [https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/639449/a-city-on-mars-by-kelly-and-zach-weinersmith/]  by authors Dr. Kelly and Zach Weinersmith.  Zach Weinersmith is the artist and creator of the famous cartoon strip Saturday Morning Breaking Cereal [https://www.smbc-comics.com/]!   We've got a lot of great episodes coming up!  Stay tuned.
Summary Brain Organelles, A.I. and Defining Intelligence in  Nature-  In this episode, we continue our fascinating interview with GT, a science content creator on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@bearbaitofficial] and YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@bearbaitofficial] known for their captivating - and sometimes disturbing science content. GT can be found on the handle '@bearBaitOfficial' on most social media channels.   In this episode, we resume our discussion on Brain Organelles -  which are grown from human stem cells - how they are being used to learn about disease, how they may be integrated in A.I.  as well as eithical concerns with them. We also ponder what constitutes intelligence in nature, and even touch on the potential risks of AI behaving nefariously. You won't want to miss this thought-provoking and engaging discussion. 30% Off ZenCastr Discount Use My Special Link to save e 30%  Off Your First Month of Any ZenCastr Paid Plan [https://zen.ai/1e7eBWWMLcSL_G10VxiSlQ]
Join Sofia Baca and her guests Millicent Oriana from Nerd Forensics and Arianna Lunarosa as they discuss energy. The sound that you're listening to, the device that you're listening on, and the cells in both the ear you're using to listen and the brain that understands these words have at least one thing in common: they represent the consumption or transference of energy. The same goes for your eyes if you're reading a transcript of this. The waves in the ears are pressure waves, while eyes receive information in the form of radiant energy, but they both are still called "energy". But what is energy? Energy is a scalar quantity measured in dimensions of force times distance, and the role that energy plays depends on the dynamics of the system. So what is the difference between potential and kinetic energy? How can understanding energy simplify problems? And how do we design a roller coaster in frictionless physics land?[Featuring: Sofia Baca; Millicent Oriana, Arianna Lunarosa] This episode is distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Full text here: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
An interview with Dr. Sabine Hossenfelder about her second book Existential Physics [https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/616868/existential-physics-by-sabine-hossenfelder/]. Sabine is host of the famous youtube show Science with Sabine [https://www.youtube.com/@SabineHossenfelder].
The world around us is a four-dimensional world; there are three spatial dimensions, and one temporal dimension. Many of these objects emit an almost unfathomable number of photons. As we developed as creatures on this planet, we gathered the ability to sense the world around us; and given the amount of information represented as photons, it is no surprise that we developed an organ for sensing photons. But because of the amount of photons that are involved, and our relatively limited computational resources, it is necessary to develop shortcuts if we want to simulate an environment in silico. So what is raytracing? How is that different from what happens in games? And what does Ptolemy have to do with 3D graphics? All of this and more on this episode of Breaking Math.
Physical objects are everywhere, and they're all made out of molecules, and atoms. However, the arrangement and refinement of these atoms can be the difference between a computer and sand, or between a tree and paper. For a species as reliant on tool use, the ability to conceieve of, design, create, and produce these materials is an ongoing concern. Since we've been around as humans, and even before, we have been material scientists in some regard, searching for new materials to make things out of, including the tools we use to make things. So what is the difference between iron and steel? How do we think up new things to make things out of? And what are time crystals? All of this and more on this episode of Breaking Math. This episode is released under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0) license. More information here: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ [Featuring: Sofía Baca, Gabriel Hesch; Taylor Sparks]
Black holes are objects that seem exotic to us because they have properties that boggle our comparatively mild-mannered minds. These are objects that light cannot escape from, yet glow with the energy they have captured until they evaporate out all of their mass. They thus have temperature, but Einstein's general theory of relativity predicts a paradoxically smooth form. And perhaps most mind-boggling of all, it seems at first glance that they have the ability to erase information. So what is black hole thermodynamics? How does it interact with the fabric of space? And what are virtual particles?
The idea of something that is inescapable, at first glance, seems to violate our sense of freedom. This sense of freedom, for many, seems so intrinsic to our way of seeing the universe that it seems as though such an idea would only beget horror in the human mind. And black holes, being objects from which not even light can escape, for many do beget that same existential horror. But these objects are not exotic: they form regularly in our universe, and their role in the intricate web of existence that is our universe is as valid as the laws that result in our own humanity. So what are black holes? How can they have information? And how does this relate to the edge of the universe?
29: War

29: War

2018-07-1437:28

In the United States, the fourth of July is celebrated as a national holiday, where the focus of that holiday is the war that had the end effect of ending England's colonial influence over the American colonies. To that end, we are here to talk about war, and how it has been influenced by mathematics and mathematicians. The brutality of war and the ingenuity of war seem to stand at stark odds to one another, as one begets temporary chaos and the other represents lasting accomplishment in the sciences. Leonardo da Vinci, one of the greatest western minds, thought war was an illness, but worked on war machines. Feynman and Von Neumann held similar views, as have many over time; part of being human is being intrigued and disgusted by war, which is something we have to be aware of as a species. So what is warfare? What have we learned from refining its practice? And why do we find it necessary?
The fabric of the natural world is an issue of no small contention: philosophers and truth-seekers universally debate about and study the nature of reality, and exist as long as there are observers in that reality. One topic that has grown from a curiosity to a branch of mathematics within the last century is the topic of cellular automata. Cellular automata are named as such for the simple reason that they involve discrete cells (which hold a (usually finite and countable) range of values) and the cells, over some field we designate as "time", propagate to simple automatic rules. So what can cellular automata do? What have we learned from them? And how could they be involved in the future of the way we view the world?
The spectre of disease causes untold mayhem, anguish, and desolation. The extent to which this spectre has yielded its power, however, has been massively curtailed in the past century. To understand how this has been accomplished, we must understand the science and mathematics of epidemiology. Epidemiology is the field of study related to how disease unfolds in a population. So how has epidemiology improved our lives? What have we learned from it? And what can we do to learn more from it?
In this conversation, Quico discusses the nature of gullibility and the tactics used by charlatans to exploit people's beliefs. He provides insights into various case studies, including astrology and blood types, and highlights notable charlatans like Baba Ramdev and the impact of mega churches. The discussion also covers modern scams in the crypto space and emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and awareness in navigating a world filled with misinformation and exploitation. It's made known that even the smartest scientists can be fooled by charlatans.  Takeaways * People are gullible because they care deeply about their beliefs. * Charlatans exploit emotional connections to manipulate individuals. * Astrology remains popular despite its lack of scientific basis. * Baba Ramdev exemplifies a modern charlatan with a yoga empire. * Mega churches can exploit vulnerable populations for profit. * The crypto space has seen significant charlatanry and scams. * Identifying red flags is crucial in protecting oneself from charlatans. * The internet allows charlatans to target niche audiences more effectively. * Critical thinking is essential in the digital age to avoid exploitation. * Understanding one's beliefs can help in recognizing manipulation. Chapters * 00:00 Introduction and the Nature of Gullibility * 04:25 Understanding Charlatans and Their Tactics * 07:29 Case Studies: Astrology and Blood Type Beliefs * 09:46 Exploring Notable Charlatans: Baba Ramdev and Others * 11:11 The Role of Mega Churches in Exploitation * 14:18 Medical Charlatans: Dr. Oz and Dr. Mercola * 16:40 The Crypto Grift and Its Impact * 21:55 The Legacy of Charlatans: From Alchemy to Crypto * 25:07 Identifying Vulnerabilities: The Psychology of Belief * 28:53 Case Study: The Rise and Fall of Abraaj * 32:05 Future Trends: The Evolution of Charlatanry * 34:51 The Impact of Technology on Deception * 37:37 Navigating a World of Misinformation Follow Quico Toro on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/quico-toro-b5147217/], Substack [https://substack.com/@quicotoro], and find his new book here [https://amzn.to/46QTDGI]. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Breaking Math on Twitter [https://x.com/breakingmathpod], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/], Website [https://breakingmath.io/], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod], TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia] Follow Autumn on Twitter [https://x.com/1autumn_leaf], BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social], and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/] Become a guest here [https://www.breakingmath.io/contact] email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
In this conversation, economist Dr. Victoria Bateman discusses the critical role of women in shaping economic prosperity throughout history. She argues that women's choices, independence, and labor have been overlooked in traditional economic narratives. The discussion covers various themes, including the impact of women's marriage decisions on population control, the relationship between women's independence and technological advancements, and the historical marginalization of women in economic history. Bateman emphasizes the importance of recognizing women's contributions to economic growth and the need for policies that support women's rights and independence. Takeaways * Women's choices have historically shaped economic prosperity. * Independence in marriage decisions leads to smaller families and economic stability. * Women's labor is crucial for technological advancements and economic growth. * Democracy is sustained by empowering women and encouraging their participation. * The historical narrative often overlooks women's contributions to the economy. * Property rights for women are essential for their economic independence. * The blend of market and state influences leads to successful societies. * The cult of female modesty restricts women's economic participation. Chapters * 00:00 The Hidden Role of Women in Economic History * 08:03 Impact of Women's Economic Freedom on Society * 14:41 Democracy and Women's Independence * 21:31 The Gender Gap in Economics * 27:50 Household Dynamics and Unpaid Labor * 35:03 Property Rights and Women's Economic Roles * 38:24 Empowering Women: The Role of Economic Freedom * 42:11 The Interplay of Markets and States * 44:43 The Cult of Female Modesty: Historical Context * 55:58 Modern Parallels: Women's Freedom and Economic Prosperity * 59:24 Lessons from History: Women as Economic Drivers * 01:04:04 Revisiting Historical Narratives * 01:04:29 Conclusion and Call to Action Follow Dr. Victoria Bateman on Twitter [https://x.com/vnbateman], BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/vnbateman.bsky.social], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/women.wealth.power/], Website [https://www.vnbateman.com/], and find her new book here [https://amzn.to/4mCyfe9]. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Breaking Math on Twitter [https://x.com/breakingmathpod], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/], Website [https://breakingmath.io/], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod], TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia] Follow Autumn on Twitter [https://x.com/1autumn_leaf], BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social], and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/] Become a guest here [https://www.breakingmath.io/contact] email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
In this conversation, Marcus Du Sautoy explores the intricate relationship between mathematics and various forms of art, including music, literature, and visual arts. He discusses how mathematical concepts such as prime numbers, symmetry, and randomness influence creative processes and artistic expressions. Through examples from renowned artists like Shakespeare and Dali, Du Sautoy illustrates how mathematics serves as a blueprint for understanding and creating art, while also emphasizing the emotional and aesthetic dimensions of both fields. Takeaways * Mathematics and art are deeply interconnected. * The circle is fundamental to both mathematics and nature. * Prime numbers are essential building blocks in mathematics. * Music often employs mathematical structures for creativity. * Shakespeare used prime numbers to disrupt rhythm. * Symmetry plays a crucial role in both art and mathematics. * Dali's work reflects his fascination with scientific ideas. * Theatre allows for abstract exploration of mathematical concepts. * Ambiguity is embraced in art but avoided in mathematics. * Randomness can lead to unexpected creative outcomes. Chapters * 00:00 Blueprints of Mathematics and Art * 02:35 Defining Creativity and Its Interplay * 04:24 Mathematicians as Collaborators with Artists * 07:17 The Fractal Nature of Jackson Pollock's Art * 12:54 The Significance of Circles in Mathematics * 16:31 Exploring the Mystery of Prime Numbers * 19:52 The Role of Primes in Music Composition * 28:01 Mathematics and the Structure of Music * 29:00 The Mathematical Foundations of Music * 31:50 Art and Mathematics: Dali's Exploration * 38:56 Theatrical Structures and Mathematical Concepts * 43:46 The Distinct Narratives of Numbers and Art * 48:07 Symmetry and Randomness: Blueprints of Creativity * 58:49 Exploring Creativity Through Mathematics Follow Professor du Sautoy on Twitter [https://x.com/MarcusduSautoy], BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/marcusdusautoy.bsky.social], and find his new book here [https://bio.to/Blueprints?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaefqRocv2pUysqSuWsMgWkm7wN5vIqAtG0XJ_Jgm0hnhAQ47Ui7mu9foO6ZkA_aem_mU-tV_Q0f15y-UR-VnKwqg]. Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Breaking Math on Twitter [https://x.com/breakingmathpod], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/], Website [https://breakingmath.io/], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod], TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia] Follow Autumn on Twitter [https://x.com/1autumn_leaf], BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social], and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/] Become a guest here [https://www.breakingmath.io/contact] email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
In this conversation, Eugenia Cheng discusses the importance of making math accessible and engaging for everyone, particularly those who have been discouraged by traditional education methods. She emphasizes the intersection of math and art, the dangers of oversimplifying complex issues with numbers, and the need for a more nuanced understanding of equality and fairness in society. Cheng also highlights the significance of mentorship and the impact of gender dynamics in mathematics, advocating for a more inclusive approach to learning and appreciating math as a creative and thoughtful discipline. Takeaways * Many people are put off math due to early education experiences. * Math and art should not be pitted against each other. * Creativity is essential in STEM fields. * Numbers can oversimplify complex realities. * Understanding inequality requires recognizing its nuances. * Context matters in mathematical reasoning. * We often forget important details in data interpretation. * Math can be appreciated without full understanding. * Building confidence in math is crucial for everyone. * Mentorship plays a vital role in academic success. Chapters * 00:00 Introduction to Mathematical Laziness * 04:21 The Journey of a Mathematician * 06:57 Creativity in Math and Art * 09:33 Understanding Inequality through Math * 11:57 The Dangers of Simplifying with Numbers * 15:07 Political Debates and Mathematical Perspectives * 17:15 The Importance of Context in Math * 17:44 Category Theory and Abstraction in Math * 20:29 Neutrality and the Gray Areas of Equality * 24:02 Exploring Equality and Its Nuances * 25:17 Mathematics in Real-World Contexts * 28:49 The Intersection of Math and Marginalized Voices * 32:39 Overcoming Gender Bias in Mathematics * 35:28 The Role of Gut Instinct in Math * 37:54 The Surprising Aspects of Writing a Book * 42:51 Building Confidence in Math for Everyone * 46:15 Rethinking Fairness and Structural Challenges Follow Eugenia on Twitter [https://x.com/DrEugeniaCheng], BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/dreugeniacheng.bsky.social], and on her Website  [https://eugeniacheng.com/] Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Breaking Math on Twitter [https://x.com/breakingmathpod], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/], Website [https://breakingmath.io/], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod], TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia] Follow Autumn on Twitter [https://x.com/1autumn_leaf], BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social], and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/] Become a guest here [https://www.breakingmath.io/contact] email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
This week's episode isn't our usual deep dive—it's a behind-the-scenes update. On Monday, Breaking Math vanished from Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and more without warning. After digging in, we discovered a strange RSS glitch that merged our feed with another podcast. In this quick update, Autumn shares: * What happened behind the scenes when the show disappeared * Which platforms are already fixed (and which we're still waiting on) * How you can make sure you never lose track of Breaking Math again * What to expect from upcoming guest episodes Follow Breaking Math online: Website: https://www.breakingmath.io/ YouTube: youtube.com/@breakingmathpod [https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod] Twitter/X: @breakingmathpod [https://x.com/breakingmathpod] Bluesky: breakingmath.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/breakingmath.bsky.social] Instagram: @breakingmathmedia [https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia] Facebook: Breaking Math Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/506764038491869] Thanks for sticking with us—we'll be back with a brand-new episode on Tuesday.
Hate the Game

Hate the Game

2025-08-1934:25

In this conversation, Dr. Daryl Fairweather, chief economist at Redfin, discusses her book "Hate the Game," that frames life and career decisions as strategic games. She emphasizes the importance of understanding economic principles to navigate personal and professional challenges, negotiate effectively, and reclaim agency in various aspects of life. Fairweather shares insights on overcoming barriers related to race and gender, the impact of information asymmetry, and the significance of designing one's own path in a competitive environment. The conversation highlights the necessity of introspection, strategic thinking, and the ability to adapt in a world that often feels rigged against certain individuals. Takeaways * Life can be viewed as a game where strategic decisions matter. * Negotiation requires awareness of both your and your employer's options. * Workplace bullying can be addressed with strategic approaches. * Information asymmetry can hinder career advancement; awareness is key. * Barriers in academia can be overcome with strategy and support. * Race and gender dynamics play a significant role in economic opportunities. * Balancing strategic thinking with empathy is crucial for long-term success. * You can still achieve your goals despite systemic unfairness. Chapters * 00:00 Introduction to Economic Principles * 03:57 Understanding Economic Cheat Codes * 07:08 Navigating Career Options and Negotiations * 09:39 Dealing with Workplace Dynamics * 11:33 Information Asymmetry in Decision Making * 14:02 Designing Your Own Game * 15:06 Identity and Power in Economics * 17:21 Overcoming Barriers in Economics * 25:51 The Impact of Housing on Economic Understanding * 30:38 Applying Economic Theory to Relationships * 33:02 Winning in a Rigged Game * 34:01 Life as a Game: Making Informed Decisions. Follow Daryl on Twitter [https://x.com/FairweatherPhD], BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/hatethegamebook.com], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/fairweatherphd/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/darylfairweather/] and on her Website  [https://www.hatethegame.com/] Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Breaking Math on Twitter [https://x.com/breakingmathpod], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/], Website [https://breakingmath.io/], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod], TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia] Follow Autumn on Twitter [https://x.com/1autumn_leaf] BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social], TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@1autumn_leaf_], and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/] Become a guest here [https://www.breakingmath.io/contact] email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
In this conversation, Autumn and Dr. Anthony Bonato explore the fascinating world of networks, discussing their significance in various fields, including mathematics, social interactions, and even the spread of diseases like COVID-19 in his new book Dots and Lines. Anthony shares his journey into network science, the importance of understanding networks in everyday life, and how they can reveal hidden connections. The discussion also touches on popular culture references, such as Game of Thrones and Survivor, to illustrate the practical applications of network theory. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the need to embrace mathematics and recognize the pervasive role of networks in our lives. Takeaways * Networks are fundamental to understanding complex systems. * The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of network science. * Mathematics encompasses more than just numbers and shapes. * Personal experiences can lead to profound realizations about networks. * Everyday life is filled with examples of networks in action. * Game of Thrones and Survivor serve as engaging examples of network analysis. * The Bacon number illustrates connections in Hollywood. * Erdős number connects mathematicians through collaboration. Chapters * 00:00 The Inspiration Behind the Book * 03:38 Understanding Networks: A New Perspective * 06:13 Networks in Everyday Life * 08:28 The Power of Networks in Society * 11:03 Real-World Applications of Network Science * 13:32 Pop Culture and Network Analysis * 15:38 The Bacon Number and Network Connections * 21:53 The Bacon Number and Small World Phenomenon * 26:34 Network Embeddings and Their Applications * 31:04 Graph Theory: Patterns and Connections * 35:11 The Importance of Mathematics in Everyday Life * 36:57 Introduction and Curiosity in Connections Follow Anthony on Twitter [https://x.com/Anthony_Bonato/], and on his Website [https://t.co/W1x1ZB1ChX]Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts. Become a patron of Breaking Math [https://www.patreon.com/breakingmath] for as little as a buck a month Follow Breaking Math on Twitter [https://x.com/breakingmathpod], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/], Website [https://breakingmath.io/], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod], TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia] Follow Autumn on Twitter [https://x.com/1autumn_leaf] and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/] Become a guest here [https://www.breakingmath.io/contact] email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
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Comments (17)

josef

very informative.... thanksss

Jan 31st
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Alex Clark

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Jul 1st
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Yousef Parrish

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Apr 22nd
Reply

drtfh serfgre

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Jan 13th
Reply

Joshua Jarrott

What a fun episode! The name "Peirce" in "peirce quincuncial projection" is pronounced like "purse", after the 19th century philosopher-logician Charles Sanders Peirce.

Oct 2nd
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Thomas Martin

Fascinating conversation.

Sep 16th
Reply

Andrew Dias

I really wish there was another podcast that goes over the same topics but without Sophia hosting. She is not great at explaining concepts. There is the tendency to do the typical thing of trying to simplify ideas, but in the process end up making it too obscure to really understand. Case in point is the fact that her mom (who teaches math) can't understand what is being explained.

Feb 15th
Reply

Andrew Dias

Good episode content. A couple things: much of the discussion about the individual axioms become convoluted with the language and examples that are used. The point is to either clearly state the axiom or provide examples that simplify the understanding, not complicate it. Also, Gödel is roughly pronounced "GER-dle", not "go-DELL."

Nov 27th
Reply

Numoru WE3

Thank y'all for this episode... I've been down and depressed for a sec, this brought me back...thanks for the knowledge, laughs, and time taken for doing this during everything.love

Jun 16th
Reply

Christi Sewell

False assumptions, bad conclusions. What about the modern example of Jaime Escalante and his ability to challenge elitism to economically challenged young adults with no time to study? Still they overcame it. Why? They wanted something enough to MAKE time for it and they had a teacher that demanded discipline.

May 24th
Reply

Koenigsegg

Awesome

Jul 5th
Reply

Vincent Kong

keep up the good work, love from UK

Apr 23rd
Reply

Paul Billington

wonderful

Apr 7th
Reply

Susa Rantanen

Just what i was looking for, although I can barely keep up sometimes, since my knowledge in math isn't great. Still super interesting!

Oct 12th
Reply

Elham Nazif

Lohnverstoß

Oct 10th
Reply

David Calano

Great podcast!

Apr 29th
Reply

Pratiksha Devshali

it's superb.. loved it.. the creators of this podcast are great :)

Oct 27th
Reply