Breaking Math Podcast Podcast Por Autumn Phaneuf arte de portada

Breaking Math Podcast

Breaking Math Podcast

De: 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

Copyright Breaking Math Ciencia Matemáticas
Episodios
  • Dots and Lines: Hidden Networks

    Dots and Lines: Hidden Networks
    Aug 12 2025

    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, and on his Website Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts.

    Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month

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    email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
    Más Menos
    37 m
  • Robin Hood Math

    Robin Hood Math
    Aug 5 2025

    In this episode of Breaking Math, Dr. Noah Giansiracusa discusses his book 'Robin Hood Math', emphasizing the importance of mathematical literacy in navigating an algorithm-driven world. He explores how math can empower everyday people, the writing process behind his book, and practical applications of math in daily life, including social media algorithms and financial decisions. The conversation highlights the simplicity of the math that truly matters and encourages listeners to reclaim agency through understanding mathematics.

    Takeaways

    • Math is a powerful tool that can empower individuals.
    • The concept of Robin Hood Math aims to redistribute mathematical knowledge.
    • Mathematical literacy is becoming as essential as reading.
    • Algorithms are deeply embedded in our daily lives, influencing decisions.
    • Understanding expected value can improve decision-making.
    • Averaging guesses can lead to better predictions.
    • Social media algorithms prioritize engagement, affecting content visibility.
    • Credit scores are calculated using weighted sums of various factors.
    • Many important mathematical concepts are simpler than they appear.
    • Mathematical literacy can help close equity gaps in society.

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Monetizing Social Media for Educators
    • 02:25 The Birth of Robin Hood Math
    • 05:18 Empowering the Everyday Person with Math
    • 08:01 The Writing Process and Surprising Discoveries
    • 10:37 Practical Math Lessons for Everyday Life
    • 13:22 Understanding Algorithms in Social Media
    • 21:56 Understanding Engagement Algorithms
    • 24:28 The Impact of Mathematics on Financial Decisions
    • 29:54 Empowering Through Mathematical Literacy
    • 32:23 Exploring Key Themes in Mathematics

    Follow Noah on Twitter, BlueSky, Instagram, LinkedIn and on his Website
    Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts.
    Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month

    Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok

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    email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
    Más Menos
    33 m
  • What are Swim Training Patterns?

    What are Swim Training Patterns?
    Jul 29 2025

    In this conversation, Dr. Christoph Bartneck discusses the intersection of swimming and computer science, exploring how mathematical patterns can enhance swim training. He introduces the concept of a formal swim markup language to improve data exchange and training efficiency. The discussion also delves into the visualization of swimming techniques, the importance of mental engagement in training, and the aesthetic appeal of mathematics. Christoph shares insights on the challenges of writing his book and his vision for creating a global community around swimming and mathematics.

    Takeaways

    • Programming languages can optimize swim training.
    • There's a gap in literature between math and sports science.
    • Data exchange in swimming training is challenging.
    • Visualizing swimming techniques aids in understanding.
    • Mathematical patterns can enhance training routines.
    • Repetitive tasks in swimming can be likened to repetitive songs.
    • Engagement in training is crucial for success.

    Chapters

    • 00:00 The Motivation Behind Swim Training Patterns
    • 02:32 Intersection of Swimming and Computer Science
    • 05:56 Challenges in Measuring and Documenting Swim Performance
    • 09:32 The Role of Patterns in Swim Training
    • 11:54 Mathematical Patterns and Their Application in Swimming
    • 15:14 Exploring Repetitiveness in Music and Swim Training
    • 18:08 Art Projects and Mathematical Patterns
    • 21:13 Fermat's Theorem and Impossible Squares
    • 23:14 Making Math Accessible in Swim Training
    • 26:40 The Importance of a Shared Language in Coaching
    • 27:35 Applying Pattern-Based Approaches to Sports
    • 29:17 The Role of Structure in Training Across Sports
    • 30:02 Current Use of Frameworks in Elite Swimming
    • 30:10 Innovative Training Philosophies in Swimming
    • 32:30 Programming Languages and Their Applications in Sports Science
    • 34:56 The Joy of Writing and Creating
    • 38:59 Challenges in Writing and Communicating Mathematical Concepts
    • 41:37 The Journey of a Book and Community Engagement

    Follow Christoph on his YouTube Channel and on bartneck.de.
    Subscribe to Breaking Math wherever you get your podcasts.
    Become a patron of Breaking Math for as little as a buck a month

    Follow Breaking Math on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Website, YouTube, TikTok

    Follow Autumn on Twitter and Instagram

    Become a guest here

    email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com
    Más Menos
    46 m
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I started with the first one mostly on elitism and Pythagoras. Any commentary on Pythagoras that doesn't start with "we don't know much about him with certainty" because he never wrote anything, and it all comes from biased or mythologized secondhand accounts is suspect. There is simply too much wrong with this episode. Why is it so difficult to find a good math Podcast in which people stay in their lane of what they know, or at least have guests that do? Sounds like a bunch of pompous hipsters. Sad..
They need to stop trying too hard to sloppily fit everything to their narrative about elitism. There was obviously a lot of politics involved when opponents labeled Pope Sylvester II a sorcerer. But the way these hipsters present it, with zero social or cultural nuance regarding the times, it was all because he dared to use foreign Arabic numerals. They are straining to have everything fit their per-determined narrative about elitism. They give a long quote from a Galilean book presented as some kind of lame "proof” of Aristotelian ignorance, but they do not bother to mention that it is a fictional dialogue. The language and translations are probably deceiving but again, they are determined to keep themselves and the listener stuck within their modern lens.

Still wondering where the math is and how this makes math more accessible.

They then provide a questionable definition about cults stating they all have the characteristic of starving and restricting adherents into submission, even ridiculously positing out of thin air that that makes sense evolutionary. Sure, why not throw in some armchair evolutionary biology too. But actually, competition makes just as much sense as cooperation evolutionary, probably even more so. The audacity to think they can apply a questionable modern definition to something so long ago that we have little evidence of is absurd. Everything was called a "cult" in those ancient Greek days, partly because they didn't have a word for religion. These people are ignorantly stuck in their modern hipster lens of what "cult" means combined with the story of the guy who was supposedly murdered for revealing the irrationals (probably a baloney account for all that we know) and then essentially concluding that the Pythagoreans must be an elitist cult no different than David Koresh or something. I am not sure how these hipsters got degrees.

Epsiode 1 - Too much non-math and pomposity.

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