Breaking Math Podcast
Breaking Math Podcast

Breaking Math Podcast

Autumn Phaneuf & Noah Giansiracusa

Overview
Episodes

Details

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]

Recent Episodes

AI, Pi, Dynamic Pricing, and Math History Lessons
FEB 10, 2026
AI, Pi, Dynamic Pricing, and Math History Lessons
<p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p>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.</p><p></p><p><strong>Takeaways</strong></p><p>AI is not monolithic; it has varying capabilities.</p><p>The difference between calculus and algebra lies in their focus on relationships and change.</p><p>Infinity is a concept that exists in mathematics but not necessarily in the physical world.</p><p>Pi is fundamental in understanding circular motion and symmetry.</p><p>Dynamic pricing is a modern phenomenon influenced by technology and data.</p><p>Choosing the right mathematical tool is crucial for problem-solving.</p><p>Personalized pricing raises ethical questions about fairness and transparency.</p><p></p><p><strong>Chapters</strong></p><p>00:00 Introduction and Overview</p><p>00:22 AI and Mathematics: The Dual Nature</p><p>03:25 Understanding Calculus vs. Algebra</p><p>07:40 Historical Perspectives: Women in Mathematics</p><p>13:11 The Concept of Infinity in Mathematics</p><p>16:55 The Origins of Pi</p><p>21:33 Dynamic Pricing and Its Implications</p><p></p><p></p><p>Follow Noah on<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/PerneInAGyre"> </a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/profnoahgian/">Instagram</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/ProfNoahGian">Twitter</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://bsky.app/profile/profnoahgian.bsky.social">Bluesky</a></p><p>Follow Breaking Math on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://breakingmath.substack.com/">Substack</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.patreon.com/breakingmath">Patreon</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/breakingmathpod">Twitter</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/"> Instagram</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/"> LinkedIn</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://breakingmath.io/"> Website</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod"> YouTube</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia"> TikTok</a></p><p>Follow Autumn on<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/1autumn_leaf"> Twitter</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social"> BlueSky</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/"> Instagram</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://substack.com/@1autumnleaf">Substack</a></p><p>Become a guest<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.breakingmath.io/contact"> here</a></p><p>email: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a></p>
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26 MIN
A New Chapter of Breaking Math: Get to Know Your Hosts
FEB 3, 2026
A New Chapter of Breaking Math: Get to Know Your Hosts
<p>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.</p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Noah is introduced as the new co-host.</li><li>Engagement with the audience is a priority.</li><li>Storytelling is crucial in teaching math.</li><li>Math communication can impact people's understanding of their lives.</li><li>Success is defined by personal fulfillment, not just metrics.</li><li>The hosts aim to humanize math and its applications.</li><li>Embracing nerdiness fosters a relatable and engaging atmosphere.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><p>01:55 Welcoming Noah as Co-Host</p><p>05:37 Engaging with the Audience</p><p>07:26 Expanding the Narrative and Storytelling</p><p>09:34 The Power Dynamic in Education</p><p>11:18 The Importance of Storytelling in Math</p><p>13:44 Communicating Math Beyond the Classroom</p><p>15:33 Interdisciplinary Approach to Math</p><p>17:40 Future Topics and Directions</p><p>20:37 Personal Insights and Fun Facts</p><p>25:32 Defining Success in the Podcasting World</p><p>30:13 Personal Reflections on Success</p><p>36:19 Embracing Nerdiness and Authenticity</p><p></p><p>Follow Noah on<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/PerneInAGyre"> </a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/profnoahgian/">Instagram</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-giansiracusa-a316a4315/">LinkedIn</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/ProfNoahGian">Twitter</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://bsky.app/profile/profnoahgian.bsky.social">Bluesky </a>Follow Breaking Math on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://breakingmath.substack.com/">Substack</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.patreon.com/breakingmath">Patreon</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/breakingmathpod"> Twitter</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/"> Instagram</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/"> LinkedIn</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://breakingmath.io/"> Website</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod"> YouTube</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia"> TikTok</a></p><p>Follow Autumn on<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/1autumn_leaf"> Twitter</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social"> BlueSky</a>,<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/"> Instagram</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/autumn-phaneuf/">LinkedIn</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://substack.com/@1autumnleaf">Substack</a></p><p>Become a guest<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.breakingmath.io/contact"> here</a></p><p>email: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a></p>
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39 MIN
The Elements of Power: Supply Chains, Technology, and Energy with Nicolas Niarchos
JAN 21, 2026
The Elements of Power: Supply Chains, Technology, and Energy with Nicolas Niarchos
<p>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.</p><p>Takeaways</p><ul> <li>What does it really cost to power the future?</li> <li>The bargain as stated is clean energy in one part and at the other end, you have corruption, pollution, and human suffering.</li> <li>The greenest vehicle is not always the electric one; it depends on the entire lifecycle of the product.</li> <li>We need to improve conditions on the ground, not just extract resources.</li> <li>Corruption is unfortunately a fact of life and is very closely related to extraction.</li></ul><p>Chapters</p><ul> <li>00:00 Introduction and Background</li> <li>03:24 The Journey to Congo and Corruption</li> <li>07:13 The Birth of Lithium-Ion Batteries</li> <li>09:35 The Uneven Global Bargain</li> <li>12:16 Mining vs. Oil: A Different Kind of Harm</li> <li>13:56 Onshoring Battery Production: Challenges and Opportunities</li> <li>17:13 China's Dominance in Battery Manufacturing</li> <li>18:51 The Race in Battery Technology</li> <li>21:39 Corruption and Poverty in the Congo</li> <li>24:31 The Human Cost of Mining</li> <li>29:12 Health Impacts of Mining</li> <li>31:52 Colonial Legacy and Modern Mining</li> <li>34:00 The Future of Battery Technology</li> <li>39:12 Introduction to Complex Narratives</li> <li>39:53 The Reality of Resource Extraction</li> <li>39:59 Embracing Curiosity and Reflection</li></ul><p>Follow Nick on<a href="https://x.com/PerneInAGyre"> Twitter</a>, and you can get his book<a href="https://amzn.to/4bIeaBi"> here</a>.</p><p>Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts.</p><p>Follow Breaking Math on<a href="https://x.com/breakingmathpod"> Twitter</a>,<a href="https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/"> Instagram</a>,<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/"> LinkedIn</a>,<a href="https://breakingmath.io/"> Website</a>,<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod"> YouTube</a>,<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia"> TikTok</a></p><p>Follow Autumn on<a href="https://x.com/1autumn_leaf"> Twitter</a>,<a href="https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social"> BlueSky</a>, and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/"> Instagram</a></p><p>Become a guest<a href="https://www.breakingmath.io/contact"> here</a></p><p>email: [email protected]</p>
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40 MIN
The Score: Gamifying the Nature of Metrics with Thi Nguyen
JAN 14, 2026
The Score: Gamifying the Nature of Metrics with Thi Nguyen
<p>In this conversation, the discussion with C. Thi Nguyen revolves around the nature of metrics, qualitative knowledge, and the duality of scoring systems, particularly in the context of climbing. The speaker shares personal experiences with climbing as a case study to illustrate how scoring systems can both enhance and detract from the experience. The conversation delves into the beauty of climbing, the subtlety of value in metrics, and the importance of savoring moments in games. It also explores the tension between purpose and game mechanics, the role of enjoyment, and the complexities of scoring systems in both games and life. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the challenges of balancing values in decision-making and the risks associated with the gamification of various aspects of life.</p><p>Takeaways</p><ul> <li>Metrics can miss the subtlety of qualitative knowledge.</li> <li>Scoring systems can enhance or detract from experiences.</li> <li>Climbing serves as a unique case study for scoring systems.</li> <li>The beauty of climbing lies in its scoring system.</li> <li>Values can become obscured when metrics are prioritized.</li> <li>Games allow for exploration of different scoring systems.</li> <li>Achievement play focuses on winning, while striving play values the process.</li> <li>External expectations can pressure individuals to conform to metrics.</li> <li>The addictive nature of games can lead to negative experiences.</li></ul><p>Chapters</p><ul> <li>00:00 The Intricacies of Portability and Judgment</li> <li>01:12 Introduction and Social Media Presence</li> <li>03:40 The Value of Climbing and Scoring Systems</li> <li>07:16 The Impact of Numbers in Climbing</li> <li>09:42 Savoring the Moment vs. Obsession with Scoring</li> <li>10:59 Goals vs. Purpose in Games</li> <li>12:39 Understanding Value Capture</li> <li>17:53 The Shift in Standards of Success</li> <li>20:33 The Limitations of Metrics</li> <li>21:42 Games as a Reflection of Human Desire</li> <li>24:37 The Purpose Behind Scoring Systems</li> <li>26:07 The Magic Circle of Games</li> <li>29:15 Achievement Play vs. Striving Play</li> <li>34:47 When Games Become Unsafe</li> <li>38:21 The Pitfalls of Portability in Metrics</li></ul><p>Follow Thi on <a href="https://x.com/add_hawk">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/add-hawk.bsky.social">Bluesky</a>, and find his <a href="https://objectionable.net/">website</a>. You can get his book <a href="https://amzn.to/4qQvnNh">here</a>.</p><p>Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts.</p><p>Follow Breaking Math on<a href="https://x.com/breakingmathpod"> Twitter</a>,<a href="https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/"> Instagram</a>,<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/"> LinkedIn</a>,<a href="https://breakingmath.io/"> Website</a>,<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod"> YouTube</a>,<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia"> TikTok</a></p><p>Follow Autumn on<a href="https://x.com/1autumn_leaf"> Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social">BlueSky</a>, and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/"> Instagram</a></p><p>Become a guest<a href="https://www.breakingmath.io/contact"> here</a></p><p>email: [email protected]</p>
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57 MIN
The Art of Physics: Bridging Science and Creativity with Ronald Gamble
JAN 13, 2026
The Art of Physics: Bridging Science and Creativity with Ronald Gamble
<p>This conversation explores the fascinating intersection of math, physics, and art, highlighting how these disciplines inform and inspire one another. Dr. Ronald Gamble discusses his journey as a theoretical physicist and artist, emphasizing the importance of recognizing patterns in nature and the role of creativity in scientific discovery. The dialogue delves into various topics, including the significance of symmetry in physics, the visualization of complex concepts like black holes and gravitational waves, and the influence of mathematical principles on artistic expression. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the idea that art and science are deeply interconnected, each enhancing the understanding and appreciation of the other.</p><p>Takeaways</p><ul> <li>Inspiration is pattern recognition.</li> <li>Math serves as a language to describe physics.</li> <li>Art and physics both seek to decode patterns in the universe.</li> <li>Studying nature can enhance understanding of physics concepts.</li> <li>Creativity is essential in theoretical physics.</li> <li>Symmetry plays a crucial role in understanding the universe.</li> <li>Art can influence scientific thought and vice versa.</li></ul><p>Chapters</p><ul> <li>00:00 The Intersection of Math, Physics, and Art</li> <li>03:57 Finding Inspiration in Nature</li> <li>06:16 The Art of Storytelling in Physics</li> <li>08:31 Patterns in Nature and Art</li> <li>10:13 The Influence of Physics on Art</li> <li>12:23 Understanding Symmetry in Physics</li> <li>16:46 Exploring Black Holes and Particle Physics</li> <li>21:03 The Role of Tessellations in Physics</li> <li>25:24 Celebrating Scientific Collaborations</li> <li>27:24 The Art of Tessellation and Structure</li> <li>29:06 The Power of Minimalism in Art and Science</li> <li>31:05 Exploring Black Holes and Gravitational Waves</li> <li>38:59 The Artistic Journey into Physics Course</li></ul><p>Follow Ron on <a href="https://x.com/dr_gamble21">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgamble-phd/">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dr_gamble21">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/drgamble21.bsky.social">Bluesky</a>, and find his <a href="https://www.theoreticallydrgamble.com/learn">website</a>.</p><p>Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts.</p><p>Follow Breaking Math on<a href="https://x.com/breakingmathpod"> Twitter</a>,<a href="https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/"> Instagram</a>,<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/breaking-math/"> LinkedIn</a>,<a href="https://breakingmath.io/"> Website</a>,<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod"> YouTube</a>,<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingmathmedia"> TikTok</a></p><p>Follow Autumn on<a href="https://x.com/1autumn_leaf"> Twitter</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social">BlueSky</a>, and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/"> Instagram</a></p><p>Become a guest<a href="https://www.breakingmath.io/contact"> here</a></p><p>email: [email protected]</p>
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48 MIN