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.
so much potential, but sadly just the same snippet of information recycled
I think this podcast is a really great idea and has a lot of promise; however, I just feel like the initial point is made over and over again with very little information about the actual subject itself. more maths please!
2020-08-05
Thanks
Thank you it’s so interesting. I’m a grade 7 and I understand everything😊☺️
2019-10-18
Informative, Interesting, and entertaining
The best way to understand math. It flips the traditional way math is normally taught. This podcast focuses on mathematical notion, metaphor, and the mathematicians (people). What this does it entices one (me at least) to look closer into the mathematical notation. As opposed to normal rote learning where you're not shown how and why the mathematics can be applied.
2018-04-29
Very helpful. Helped me love maths
While learning math at school, I alwats had the question about where all these concepts are applied. This podcast answers all my questions.
2017-12-03
Fun and informative
An accessible conversational style which makes for an easy listen. The main hosts clearly have a passion for maths and are able to show how a topic bleeds into all branches of stem. A range of guests bring interesting perspectives which help to expand on the core topic of discussion.
