Breaking Math Podcast

185 episódios

$Breaking Math Podcast$
Reaching for the Extreme with Ian Stewart
24/02/2026 | 43min
In this conversation, Ian Stewart discusses the nature of mathematical inquiry, the motivations behind problem-solving in mathematics, and the importance of storytelling in making math relatable. He explores the relationship between nature and mathematics, emphasizing how patterns in nature inspire mathematical concepts. Stewart also addresses the role of AI in mathematical discovery and the importance of choosing meaningful problems to work on. He concludes by highlighting the vital role of mathematics in society and its significant contributions to the economy.

Takeaways
-Mathematics is driven by curiosity and the desire to solve problems
-Nature serves as a significant source of inspiration for mathematical ideas.
-Mathematicians often seek deeper understanding beyond just solving problems.
-AI can be a powerful tool in mathematical discovery, but it raises questions about understanding
-Choosing problems that interest you is crucial for success in mathematics.
-Mathematics has a profound impact on various industries and the economy.

Chapters
00:00 The Origins of Mathematical Problems
06:12 Breaking Down Complex Problems
09:57 The Beauty of Mathematical Proofs
15:21 The Role of Storytelling in Mathematics
20:10 Nature as Inspiration for Mathematics
24:30 The Pursuit of Mathematical Extremes
27:00 The Complexity of the Four Color Theorem Proof
28:38 The Impact of Computer-Aided Proofs on Understanding
31:21 The Quest for Deeper Mathematical Insights
32:11 AI and the Evolving Boundaries of Mathematics
34:35 The Dilemma of Solving Without Understanding
38:49 Guiding the Next Generation of Mathematicians

You can purchase Ian Stewart’s book here.
Follow Noah on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Bluesky
Follow Breaking Math on Substack, Patreon, Twitter, Instagram, Website, YouTube, TikTok
Follow Autumn on Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram, Substack
Become a guest here
email: [email protected]
$Breaking Math Podcast$
Rethinking Mathematical Value in the Age of AI with Ravi Vakil
17/02/2026 | 42min
In this conversation, Ravi Vakil discusses the beauty of mathematics, the impact of AI on the field, and the importance of human interaction in mathematical education. He emphasizes the social nature of mathematics and the potential dangers of AI-generated content flooding the mathematical community. The discussion also touches on the future of education, the role of leadership in mathematics, and the balance between mathematics and other disciplines. Throughout, Vakil encourages aspiring mathematicians to embrace the beauty and interconnectedness of the subject.
Takeaways
Mathematics is fundamentally about curiosity and connection.
The beauty of mathematics can be shared and experienced collectively.
AI poses both opportunities and challenges for the field of mathematics.
Mathematics thrives on social interaction and collaboration.
The influx of AI-generated content may dilute the quality of mathematical research.
Education in mathematics requires human interaction and cannot be fully replaced by technology.
Leadership in mathematics should focus on long-term investments in education.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
01:11 The Beauty of Mathematics
03:57 The Intersection of Mathematics and Technology
05:41 AI's Role in Mathematics
07:36 Emerging Mathematical Ideas in the Age of AI
09:12 Community Dynamics in Mathematics
13:32 Challenges of AI in Academic Publishing
17:08 The Future of Writing and Learning in Mathematics
19:42 The Value of Human Interaction in Education
22:33 The Future of Mathematics and AI
30:15 Leadership in Mathematics and Education
35:47 Balancing Mathematics with Liberal Arts
39:48 Encouragement for Aspiring Mathematicians

Follow Noah on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky
Follow Breaking Math on Substack, Twitter, Instagram, Website, YouTube, TikTok
Follow Autumn on Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram, Substack
Become a guest here
email: [email protected]
$Breaking Math Podcast$
AI, Pi, Dynamic Pricing, and Math History Lessons
10/02/2026 | 26min
Summary
In this episode, Autumn and Noah explore the intersection of AI and mathematics, discussing why AI struggles with math, the differences between calculus and algebra, and the historical contributions of women in mathematics. They delve into the concept of infinity, the significance of pi, and the implications of dynamic pricing in today's economy. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding mathematical tools and the ethical considerations surrounding personalized pricing.

Takeaways
AI is not monolithic; it has varying capabilities.
The difference between calculus and algebra lies in their focus on relationships and change.
Infinity is a concept that exists in mathematics but not necessarily in the physical world.
Pi is fundamental in understanding circular motion and symmetry.
Dynamic pricing is a modern phenomenon influenced by technology and data.
Choosing the right mathematical tool is crucial for problem-solving.
Personalized pricing raises ethical questions about fairness and transparency.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:22 AI and Mathematics: The Dual Nature
03:25 Understanding Calculus vs. Algebra
07:40 Historical Perspectives: Women in Mathematics
13:11 The Concept of Infinity in Mathematics
16:55 The Origins of Pi
21:33 Dynamic Pricing and Its Implications

Follow Noah on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky
Follow Breaking Math on Substack, Patreon, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok
Follow Autumn on Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram, Substack
Become a guest here
email: [email protected]
$Breaking Math Podcast$
A New Chapter of Breaking Math: Get to Know Your Hosts
03/02/2026 | 39min
In this episode, Autumn and Noah celebrate the ninth anniversary of the Breaking Math podcast, reflecting on its journey and growth. They introduce Noah Giansiracusa as the new co-host and discuss the importance of engaging with the audience, storytelling in math, and the interdisciplinary nature of the topics they plan to cover. The conversation also touches on personal experiences, defining success in podcasting, and the dynamics of co-hosting, all while embracing their nerdy sides and fostering curiosity in their listeners.
Takeaways
Noah is introduced as the new co-host.
Engagement with the audience is a priority.
Storytelling is crucial in teaching math.
Math communication can impact people's understanding of their lives.
Success is defined by personal fulfillment, not just metrics.
The hosts aim to humanize math and its applications.
Embracing nerdiness fosters a relatable and engaging atmosphere.

Chapters
01:55 Welcoming Noah as Co-Host
05:37 Engaging with the Audience
07:26 Expanding the Narrative and Storytelling
09:34 The Power Dynamic in Education
11:18 The Importance of Storytelling in Math
13:44 Communicating Math Beyond the Classroom
15:33 Interdisciplinary Approach to Math
17:40 Future Topics and Directions
20:37 Personal Insights and Fun Facts
25:32 Defining Success in the Podcasting World
30:13 Personal Reflections on Success
36:19 Embracing Nerdiness and Authenticity

Follow Noah on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Bluesky Follow Breaking Math on Substack, Patreon, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok
Follow Autumn on Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack
Become a guest here
email: [email protected]
$Breaking Math Podcast$
The Elements of Power: Supply Chains, Technology, and Energy with Nicolas Niarchos
21/01/2026 | 40min
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 Reflection
Follow 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: [email protected]

Mais podcasts de Arte

Podcasts em tendência em Arte

Sobre Breaking Math Podcast

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.ioLinktree: https://linktr.ee/breakingmathmediaEmail: [email protected]

Site de podcast

Arte Notícias Ciência Tecnologia Matemática Artes performativas Novidades tecnológicas