Welcome to Nerd Nite Hamilton: Where Curiosity and Geekiness Unite!
Calling all curious minds, philosophy enthusiasts, and science geeks – get ready for a night of intellectual revelry like never before! Nerd Nite Hamilton is back with a bang, bringing you an electrifying event that celebrates all things nerdy and intellectually stimulating.
Events take place the second Monday of the month (more or less), 7-9pm at Shawn & Eds Brewery Co. As always it will be pay-what-you-can at the door, with all money going to our local Routes Youth Centre. Be there and be square!
#13 Nerd Nite Hamilton – September 9th, 2024
Get ready for a wild Nerd Nite! First up, actor Jessica Clement reveals how to cry on cue without needing therapy afterward. Then, Brad Pilon teaches us how skipping meals (strategically) can help you drop pounds without ditching your favorite foods. Finally, Cam Murray shows how tiny moments can spark huge changes in healthcare, making it fairer for all. Three talks, zero boredom. Don’t miss it!
Talk 1: Empathy vs Catharsis in Acting
As a child actor, figuring out how NOT to take on a character’s trauma was a real-life quest that felt more like a never-ending side mission. The challenge? Immersing yourself so deeply in a role that you connect with your character’s emotions—without ending up needing extra therapy yourself! In this talk, I’ll explore the fine line between empathy and catharsis in acting. How can you connect authentically with a character’s struggles while keeping your own emotional health in check.
Speaker: Jessica Clement in a Hamilton-based actor with over 20 years of experience…despite still playing 16 year olds. She began her acting journey on the stage of Theatre Aquarius at 7 as young Cosette in Les Mis. Since then she has made leaps in her field as a film actor. After landing her first series regular in CBC’s Pure, she climbed her way through guest stars on series including “V.C. Andrews’ Casteel Family”, “So Help me Todd”, “Good Sam”, “Surrealestate”, and “CROSS”. Eventually securing leading roles alongside Nicolas Cage in A24’s “Dream Scenario”, Richard Gere in “Longing”, and Bryan Cranston & Allison Janney in “Everything’s Going to be Great”. She is currently working on season 2 of Amazon Prime’s spin off of “The Boys” series, titled “GEN V”. Jess owns and runs an acting studio in Hamilton (Hamont Acting Studio) where she helps aspiring actors nurture their careers.
Talk 2: Eat Stop Eat: The Science and Simplicity of Intermittent Fasting
Ever wonder if there’s a way to achieve lasting health benefits without complex dieting rules or sacrificing your favorite foods? Join Brad Pilon, author of the groundbreaking book Eat Stop Eat, as he dives into the science behind intermittent fasting. In this talk, Brad will break down the latest research on how fasting works, why it’s effective for weight loss, and how it can boost your overall health without all the confusing diet fads. Whether you’re new to intermittent fasting or looking to refine your approach, this talk will leave you with practical tools for living a healthier, more balanced life.
Speaker: Brad Pilon is a pioneer in the field of intermittent fasting and the author of the bestselling book Eat Stop Eat. With a background in applied human nutrition and extensive experience in the fitness industry, Brad has spent years researching the science of fasting and weight loss. His work challenges conventional dieting wisdom by advocating a simple, effective, and sustainable approach to health. When he’s not writing or speaking, Brad continues to explore the latest findings in nutrition and fitness, helping people lead healthier lives without overcomplicating things.
Talk 3: Puncta and Heterotopia: Privileging the Mundane and Decentering the Expert to Design More Equitable and Hyperlocal Healthcare Futures”
This paper explores my obsession with seemingly insignificant moments that have pushed my work as a community-based anthropologist and design researcher down profound and unexpected paths. Each of these moments of fieldwork minutiae represent what I call, following French literary theorist and philosopher Roland Barthes, an ethnographic “punctum.” For Barthes, the punctum is a simultaneously mundane, yet visceral and haunting feature that unexpectedly draws someone into a photographic image. As he puts it, “[v]ery often the punctum is a ‘detail,’ i.e., a partial object. Hence to give examples of punctum is, in a certain fashion, to give myself up.” As Barthes suggests, a punctum has the potential for a kind of expansion that generates a productive paradox: “while remaining a ‘detail,’ it fills the whole picture.” The same is true of my ethnographic puncta. In my case, the “whole picture” of my work concerns whether and how we might better and more equitably embrace and make productive the inherent indeterminacy of biomedical future(s), especially in vulnerable, underserved urban neighbourhoods. How, most importantly, can we design better and healthier futures for equity-deprived communities that decenter my academic expertise and elevate the collective, mundane experiences of living, working and playing in hyperlocal community contexts?
Speaker: Cam Murray is a community-based medical anthropologist and design researcher currently working as a postdoctoral fellow in McMaster’s School of Interdisciplinary Science. He is also teaching the design component of this year’s CityLAB Semester in Residence program through McMaster’s Office of Community Engagement. In addition to his academic work, Cam has spent the last six years working as a researcher, design consultant and strategist for hospitals, healthcare networks, biomedical companies and community health organizations around the world. His latest research project is a partnership with The Neighbourhood Organization, a multi-service agency providing for some of the densest, most diverse and underserved communities in Toronto. The focus of this project is on helping immigrant, newcomer and low-income seniors develop skills to better advocate for their unique healthcare, wellness and social service needs. In his free time, Cam likes to watch weird old movies, mess around with music and video production and make increasingly elaborate stocks, stews and sauces.
#12 Nerd Nite Hamilton (1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY) – August 12th, 2024
Talk 1: Veteran Homelessness in Canada
Contrary to popular belief Canada has had and continues to have a serious problem within the Veteran community, that problem is homelessness. Our men and women in uniform are coming home from war, getting out of the military, and finding that things are very difficult. These difficulties, combined with a lack of information, training and understanding have led to a situation where more and more often our veterans are ending up on the streets, and in situations that neither they nor anyone deserve. In this presentation we will review the unique drivers behind veteran homelessness, the problems that Veterans face, as well as what is and can be done to alleviate it.
Speaker: Lino is the founder of Ruck 2 Remember, a registered not for profit based out of Hamilton, Ontario. Ruck To Remember is an organization that serves as a tribute and support to those who have served as a front line responder or military in the present, past, and future. Their role is primarily about creating awareness and support for those within our front line responder communities which include, Paramedics, Firefighters, Law Enforcement, and Military. They host an annual charity ruck march that covers between 130 and 160km and also take part in multiple events and fundraising efforts throughout the year to continue raising awareness and support. To date they have raised nearly $1.2MM dollars for Operation: Leave the Streets Behind. A charity dedicated to getting and keeping veterans off the street.
Talk 2: Empathy vs Catharsis in Acting
As a child actor, figuring out how NOT to take on a character’s trauma was a real-life quest that felt more like a never-ending side mission. The challenge? Immersing yourself so deeply in a role that you connect with your character’s emotions—without ending up needing extra therapy yourself! In this talk, I’ll explore the fine line between empathy and catharsis in acting. How can you connect authentically with a character’s struggles while keeping your own emotional health in check.
Speaker: Jessica Clement in a Hamilton-based actor with over 20 years of experience…despite still playing 16 year olds. She began her acting journey on the stage of Theatre Aquarius at 7 as young Cosette in Les Mis. Since then she has made leaps in her field as a film actor. After landing her first series regular in CBC’s Pure, she climbed her way through guest stars on series including “V.C. Andrews’ Casteel Family”, “So Help me Todd”, “Good Sam”, “Surrealestate”, and “CROSS”. Eventually securing leading roles alongside Nicolas Cage in A24’s “Dream Scenario”, Richard Gere in “Longing”, and Bryan Cranston & Allison Janney in “Everything’s Going to be Great”. She is currently working on season 2 of Amazon Prime’s spin off of “The Boys” series, titled “GEN V”. Jess owns and runs an acting studio in Hamilton (Hamont Acting Studio) where she helps aspiring actors nurture their careers.
Talk 3: Bridging the Divide: Navigating the Complex Intersections of Biomedical Expertise and Urban Community Beliefs
In an increasingly complex urban environment, the tension between the expertise of biomedical researchers, clinicians, and policymakers and the needs, experiences, and belief systems of underserved communities is growing. This talk will explore how these tensions manifest and what they reveal about the broader cultural, social, and political dynamics at play in modern healthcare. Drawing on ethnographic storytelling, human-centered design, and experimental ethnography, Dr. Cam will delve into the lived experiences of individuals within these communities, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for creating more inclusive and responsive healthcare systems. By examining these intersections, the talk will propose pathways for fostering greater understanding and collaboration between biomedical experts and the communities they aim to serve.
Speaker: Dr. Cam Murray is an anthropologist of science and medicine with a Ph.D. from York University’s Science & Technology Studies (STS) program. Over the past six years, he has served as a design researcher and strategist for hospitals, life science companies, community health organizations, and clinical research teams globally. His current postdoctoral fellowship at McMaster University’s Science in Society Lab and collaboration with the International Research Network for the Study of Science and Belief in Society focuses on exploring the intersection of biomedical expertise and the lived experiences of underserved urban communities.
#11 Nerd Nite Hamilton – 8th July, 2024
Talk 1: Carbon Cash: How Rebates Can Save the Planet and Your Wallet
Ever wonder how getting money back from the government could help save the planet? In this talk we’ll deep dive into the world of carbon taxes and rebates, where we’ll explore how these programs are designed to cut greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging clean energy use. We’ll look at Ontario’s Climate Action Incentive (CAI) payments, uncovering what people know (or don’t know) about them and how they use their rebates. Expect a fun talk that is a win-win for your wallet and the environment!
Talk 2: Embodied Robotics: What Breakdancing Robots Tell Us About The Human Mind
In recent years, embodied robotics has revolutionized our perspective on artificial intelligence and human cognition. This talk explores the intricate relationship between the body, environment, and mind, illustrating how physical embodiment plays a crucial role in shaping intelligence. Through captivating examples, including breakdancing, flipping and running robots, the evolution of robotic design from rudimentary constructs to sophisticated machines will be showcased. We will delve into the fascinating insights gained from these advancements, emphasizing how they reveal the interdependence of the human mind on our physical form and surroundings. Join us for an engaging journey through the history and future of embodied robotics, challenging conventional views on what it means to be intelligent.
Speaker: Mark Miller, Ph.D. is a philosopher and cognitive scientist. His research explores what recent advances in neuroscience can tell us about happiness and well-being, and what it means to live well in our increasingly technologically-mediated world. Mark is currently a senior research fellow at Monash University’s Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies, and cross affiliated at the University of Toronto and Hokkaido University.
Talk 3: Uncovering Toronto: The Hidden Rivers Beneath the Concrete Jungle
Discover a side of Toronto you’ve never seen before! Join historian Matthew Jordan as he takes you on a fascinating journey beneath the city’s surface. In this captivating talk, you’ll learn about Toronto’s buried waterways, ancient cliffs, and the world’s largest ravine system. Explore centuries of waterfront transformations and uncover the hidden ecological and geological treasures that make this city truly unique. Matthew’s passion for Toronto’s rich history and urban ecology will inspire you to see your city in a whole new light. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this talk promises to deepen your connection to Toronto’s remarkable past and present. Get ready to explore the hidden rivers of Toronto!
Speaker: Matthew Jordan is a historian of science and technology. Growing up in the GTA, he had a very narrow concept of Toronto as a city of stadiums and skyscrapers. But as he explored more, that concept literally flipped upside down: Toronto is a city of rivers, ravines, and extraordinary urban ecology. Matthew created The Hidden Rivers Tours to share his enthusiasm about Toronto with locals and tourists alike.
#10 Nerd Nite Hamilton – 10th June, 2024
Talk 1: Avoiding Chairs to Feel Better: Insights From Smart and Design-Based Environments
From recreational activities to work spaces, we spend most of our lives sitting. This talk will challenge the opinion that sitting is a good idea. Recent estimates suggest that sitting time is linked with increased risk of all-cause mortality (for example, the mortality risk 34% is higher for 10 h/day sitting [1]). Given this concern, we will look at various strategies to avoid falling into bad sedentary habits. We will shift our perspective from considering our habits as pre-wired and inflexible to understanding them as unfolding in relation with the social and material environment. In this way, the problem of sedentary habits becomes about the ways we engage with our (in-built) environments, or, more precisely, in the ways we do not engage with them. Potential solutions have to do with attuning with the environment, thinking of new ways to engage with surfaces, playing with materials, and so on. The main idea is that avoiding excessive sedentary habits means engaging with our environment in more diverse and active ways. Supporting examples and insights will come from philosophically informed architectural projects and ongoing research on ambient smart environments, to aim for a more fun and healthier lifestyle.
Speaker Info: Valeria Becattini holds a B.A. in Philosophy from the University of Florence and a M.A. in Cognitive Science at the Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Humboldt University. Her interests span across philosophy of mind, embodied cognitive science, phenomenology, contemplative research, and active inference theory. Over the past few years, she has been conducting empirical and theoretical research on meditation, sense of self, and well-being, in collaboration with the Centre for Philosophy of Sciences at the University of Lisbon. Valeria has presented her work at conferences and seminars hosted by academic centres such as Berlin’s Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, the University of Toronto, and the University of Sussex, as well as on digital platforms like the “ActInf GuestStream”. Currently, she is co-program chair of the 2nd Annual Web Conference of the International Society for the Philosophy of the Sciences of the Mind, and pursuing a doctoral degree in contemplative research.
Talk 2: Foundations and Future of Health, Safety, and Environmental Management
This talk provides an introduction to Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) management, highlighting its significance and transformative potential. Emphasizing the human element, we’ll delve into the impacts of a safe and compliant workplace. The role of businesses in environmental stewardship is examined, showcasing initiatives that promote sustainability and ecological benefits. The talk also navigates regulatory frameworks, emphasizing the importance of compliance and effective risk management strategies. We’ll also explore innovations in HSE technology, and the metrics used to measure success, and global challenges and future directions in the field.
Speaker Info: Jenn Stratemeyer studied philosophy at McMaster. After she realized the philosophy factory wasn’t hiring, she headed to Niagara College to study environmental, health and safety. Now, almost 15 years later, Jenn has worked in various parts of Canada, and acquired a diverse background in both fieldwork and management. Her expertise includes soil, water, air and occupational hygiene sampling. She has overseen program development and fostered cultural change in municipal and private workplaces. Outside of her professinal life, Jenn teaches yoga and meditation. She lives in Hamilton with her husband and cat.
Talk 3: Sacred Earth: the Buddhist View of the Environment
Since its beginning, Buddhism has been a diverse set of traditions embedded in different environments. The heterogeneous practices across the Himalayan regions contributed to constructing local spiritual environments. These practices included stories about prominent Buddhist figures in different periods and particular places. This presentation focuses on historical ecocritical literature and its foundation of Buddhist philosophies of creating such places and practices in the Himalayan Buddhist communities, including pilgrimage, ritualism, and local practices that contribute to transforming the spiritual and material environment into a sacred space promoting spiritual environmentalism.
Speaker Info: Thinley Gyatso is a PhD candidate in the Study of Religion, in conjunction with the Doctoral Collaborative Specialization in Environmental Studies, School of the Environment, University of Toronto. He received an MA and M.Phil from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU New Delhi). Previously, he was an assistant professor at the Centre for Teachers’ Education, Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies, Varanasi, India. His research interests include environmental psychology, philosophy of religion and ritualism, and environmental hermeneutics. His doctoral project explores the social-theoretical understanding of nature and the social construction of nature, space, and place in the Himalayan regions.
#9 Nerd Nite Hamilton – 13th May, 2024
Talk 1: Better Living Through Chaos Magick: A Beginner’s Guide to Pragmatic Symbology
Despite admonitions from countless films and songs, a lot of people still don’t believe in magic. Witches flying on broomsticks? Preposterous! Well, we’re right to be skeptical about things like that. But Chaos Magicians will tell you that although it’s far-fetched to believe people can fly through the air with only a broom, there is one place where magic undoubtedly works: inside your own mind! In this talk, we’ll discuss the basics of Chaos Magick, explore practical ways of using symbols your brain finds meaningful, and even learn a few spells you can take home with you. Enchant thyself, sorcerer!
Speaker Info: Calder technically has a degree in Molecular Genetics from the University of Guelph, but found lab work a bit dull. After graduating, he meandered around the world awhile before deciding to go into teaching, which he’s been at for quite awhile now. These days, he spends a lot of his time working with adolescents at a local Montessori school, where he mostly helps them with math, storytelling, and nerdy games like Dungeons and Dragons.
Talk 2: Embracing Beginnerhood: Overcoming Perfectionism Through New Experiences
In a world fixated on achievement and perfection, many of us find ourselves trapped in the relentless pursuit of flawlessness, often at the expense of our well-being and joy. Join Brooke Henshall, a dedicated advocate for authentic living, as she shares insights from her personal journey towards conquering perfectionism through the lens of “Beginnerhood”. Drawing from her rich background in yoga, meditation, and breathwork, Brooke invites us to embrace the liberating power of a beginner’s mindset. In her ongoing series, she explores a myriad of movement and mindfulness modalities, each a stepping stone towards self-discovery and growth. Through candid reflections and practical wisdom, Brooke reveals how cultivating a spirit of openness and curiosity can transform our relationship with success and failure. Discover how surrendering the need to be the best opens doors to profound experiences and genuine fulfillment. Join us on this transformative exploration of Beginnerhood, where imperfection becomes the gateway to authenticity and joy.
Speaker Info: Brooke Henshall is a passionate explorer of self-discovery and advocate for authentic living. Inspired by her transformative journey in Australia, she is passionate about personal development. Trained in yoga, meditation, and breathwork facilitation, Brooke guides others in uncovering their true essence through her workshop, Journey Inward.
Talk 3: Death: Let’s talk about it!
This talk will begin by highlighting the relationship between death and mental illness. I aim to show that by avoiding the topic of death, we may be perpetuating pathologies like OCD. I will look at how exposure therapy techniques may be a useful way to combat death anxiety and increase competency in clinical and non-clinical populations. Finally, we will dive into the phenomenon know as Near-Death-Experiences, and how this may be the ultimate exposure to death and why this typically radically increases death competency. We will learn that embracing and exposing ourself to the ultimate uncertainty, death, in reasonable ways, can help us live a fuller and more meaningful life.
Speaker Info: Sophie Manu recently graduated from the University of Toronto which a degree in Psychology and Cognitive science. Her research interests focus on how we can ameliorate and treat pathologies, and how we can flourish and live meaningful live. She is currently working in a neurodevelopment lab at SickKids, focusing on autism research in young children, and hopes to go on to graduate studies in teaching or counselling.
#8 Nerd Nite Hamilton – 8th April, 2024
Talk 1: The Canadian Lunar Rover Mission’s Science and Technology Goals for Canada
The Canadian Lunar Rover Mission (LRM) is the flagship of the Canadian Space Agency’s Lunar Exploration Accelerator Program (LEAP) and will be the first ever Canadian-led planetary surface mission. The aim of this technology demonstration mission is to land a 30 kg Canadian rover in the south polar region of the Moon, perform meaningful lunar science, operate inside of permanently shadowed regions, and to survive multiple lunar days/nights. Canadensys Aerospace Corporation was selected in November 2022 as the prime contractor for this mission. The rover will fly as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative as early as late 2026.
Bio: Josh Newman is a systems engineer at Canadensys Aerospace. Josh has over a decade of experience in the space industry developing and operating novel systems that push the boundaries of space accessibility. In addition to his current role as systems lead on the Lunar Rover Mission (LRM) for the Canadian Space Agency, Josh recently operated the ILO-X imaging systems on board the Intuitive Machines Odysseus lunar lander, which delivered stunning imagery of lunar descent and landing.
Talk 2: Beginnerhood – Conquering Perfectionism
In a world fixated on achievement and perfection, many of us find ourselves trapped in the relentless pursuit of flawlessness, often at the expense of our well-being and joy. Join Brooke Henshall, a dedicated advocate for authentic living, as she shares insights from her personal journey towards conquering perfectionism through the lens of “Beginnerhood”. Drawing from her rich background in yoga, meditation, and breathwork, Brooke invites us to embrace the liberating power of a beginner’s mindset. In her ongoing series, she explores a myriad of movement and mindfulness modalities, each a stepping stone towards self-discovery and growth. Through candid reflections and practical wisdom, Brooke reveals how cultivating a spirit of openness and curiosity can transform our relationship with success and failure. Discover how surrendering the need to be the best opens doors to profound experiences and genuine fulfillment. Join us on this transformative exploration of Beginnerhood, where imperfection becomes the gateway to authenticity and joy.
Bio: Brooke Henshall is a passionate explorer of self-discovery and advocate for authentic living. Inspired by her transformative journey in Australia, she is passionate about personal development. Trained in yoga, meditation, and breathwork facilitation, Brooke guides others in uncovering their true essence through her workshop, Journey Inward. Her ongoing series “Beginnerhood” aims to conquer perfectionism, embracing a beginner’s mindset and exploring new practices for growth and self-discovery. Through this series, she explores various movement and mindfulness modalities she hasn’t tried before in order to shift the focus from being the best to enjoying a new experience with an open mind. Originally aiming for 12 activities in 2024, Brooke has already completed 10 by March, realizing the journey has no end in sight.
Talk 3: The Power of Asking
This talk will be an exploration into the transformative force of asking. Through real-life stories and research insights, we’ll uncover how the simple act of asking questions can catalyze growth, deepen relationships, and unlock hidden opportunities. Whether seeking mentorship, feedback, or collaboration, mastering the art of asking opens doors to boundless possibilities. Discover how embracing curiosity and courage can lead to a life of fulfillment and impact.
Bio: Rocky Ricottone is a multi-talented restaurateur, chef, musician, and podcaster who thrives on bringing people together and fostering meaningful conversations. With a passion for creating vibrant spaces that empower creative individuals, Rocky’s endeavors transcend traditional boundaries. Through his culinary creations, musical performances, and engaging podcasts, he cultivates environments where collaboration flourishes and connections deepen. Whether in the kitchen, on stage, or behind the mic, Rocky’s mission is clear: to inspire, uplift, and unite through the power of creativity and community.
#7 Nerd Nite Hamilton – 11th March, 2024
Talk #1: Dementia and Its Discontent
What is dementia? What is normal aging and what is not? If it’s not dementia, what else could it be? What does it mean to be a Care Partner? What is “Caregiver Syndrome”? So many questions!!!! Lucky for you, there are answers….at Nerd Nite #7. Join us for this fascinating discussion of all these issues and empower yourselves and your loved ones with knowledge about dementia and what living with it could mean!
Bio: Cheri Elson was an estate planning and probate attorney in California and Oregon for 20 years, working with families living with dementia and other cognitive decline, and preserving the rights of seniors and those unable to advocate for themselves. Also a full-time caregiver of a close relative for over two years, Cheri has experienced first-hand the stress and overwhelm that often accompanies the challenging task of caring for loved ones around the clock. With a passion for preserving the rights of seniors and those unable to advocate for themselves, and a professional background as an elder law attorney/LAWYER, Cheri offers a unique perspective to the often-complicated process of managing the affairs of those struggling with the effects of cognitive decline and dementia.
Talk #2: Spontaneous Activity, Intentional Activity, and a Not-so-secret Third Kind of Activity the Daoists Told us About
Many of our activities are spontaneous—breathing, hearing, holding our bodies up. Some of our activities are intentional—sniffing, listening, gesturing. In many other activities, spontaneity and intention are commingled—for example, skilled but natural action such as excellent artistic or athletic performance, or flow states of all kinds. The problem is that “Western” philosophical theories of action systematically fail to account for the third kind of activity. This is because historically deep-seated dichotomies between spontaneity/intention, nature/artifice, body/mind, and ease/effort distort our accounts of the third kind of activity. In this talk, I explore ways in which an “Eastern” analysis of natural but skilled activity can help us go beyond the dichotomies to develop more fine-grained and commodious theories of activities where spontaneity and rarified skill work together more or less seamlessly. Getting a bit clearer on how skill, effort, and action relate to each other is essential for effective self-cultivation.
Bio: Alex Djedovic, B.Sc., Ph.D., is a philosopher working at the intersection of biology and cognitive science. His research interests focus on how the life sciences and mind sciences both inform and mislead each other. Alex is also interested in non-Western approaches to cognition, the intersection of philosophy of mind with mental health, how cognitive science influences society, and the role of theory in making a more just world.
Talk #3: Scrolling Struggles: Unraveling the Mystery of Social Media Addiction
Social media: the love-hate relationship we just can’t quit! Ever wondered why we keep scrolling even when we know it’s not good for us? Turns out, our brains are like prediction machines on overdrive, trying to make sense of the digital chaos. But hey, not all apps are evil geniuses – some are just friendly neighbors! Let’s dive into the neuroscience of addiction and find out why we’re hooked on likes, shares, and cat videos. Spoiler alert: blame it on the algorithm!”
Bio: Mark Miller, Ph.D. is a philosopher of cognition. His research explores what recent advances in the cognitive sciences can tell us about happiness and well-being, and what it means to live well in our increasingly technologically-mediated world. Currently Mark is the Senior Research Fellow at the Monash University’s Centre for Consciousness and Contemplative Studies (Australia), and is cross affiliated at both the University of Toronto (Canada) and Hokkaido University (Japan).
#6 Nerd Nite Hamilton – 12th February, 2024
Talk #1: Great Sex and Your Pelvic Floor
Do you know what contributes to great sex and outstanding orgasms? Most of us don’t have a clue. In this presentation we will dive deep into the pelvis to discover what’s in there and how the pelvic floor muscles function to help us experience pleasure, remain continent and standing upright. If you want to enhance your sex life with your partner(s) or yourself, then you shouldn’t miss this presentation.
Speaker Info: Kristen has been a physiotherapist for over 22 years and has a graduate degree in Exercise
Physiology and a Bachelor of Health Science in Physiotherapy from McMaster University.
Kristen is the owner of Blueberry Therapy, a pelvic health and pediatric therapy clinic in
downtown Dundas. In 2020 Kristen was awarded a Women of Distinction Award in the Small
Business category from the YWCA. She has worked as a physiotherapist with children, and
adults in many different settings including hospitals, children’s treatment centres, outpatient
clinics, and in home care. She has a deep interest in research and evidence based practice and
continues to teach at McMaster University to stay current with evolving practice trends.
Kristen has a special interest in pelvic health rehabilitation and provides treatment for all adults
and children with incontinence, pelvic pain and sexual dysfunction.
Talk #2: From Storms to Superpowers: Unleashing the Wisdom in Personal Struggles
Talk Info: TBA
Speaker Info: Ola Kuforiji brings 10 years of experience working in the field of mental health. He began his career working as a clinical research analyst at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto General Hospital and Sunnybrook Hospital. Ola went on to gain experience as a clinician at several private psychotherapy clinics, providing services to diverse clientele. His therapeutic approach utilizes a range of therapeutic modalities, with an emphasis on person-centred and cognitive-behavioural techniques. Ola also uses experience navigating his own mental health challenges to inform his clinical practice. He holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) from the University of Toronto Scarborough and a Master’s in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. He currently works as the Black Student Wellness Counsellor at McMaster University, providing culturally responsive and trauma-informed psychotherapy services to Black-identifying students campus wide.
Talk #3: Understanding the Futures
How do we use ideas about the future to anticipate and better prepare for change? This talk is an exploration of how we might understand different plausible futures that could arise, the opportunities and challenges they could present, and how we can use ideas about the future to make better decisions now.
Speaker Info: Nélia eixeira, BA. MDes., JD. is an interdisciplinary designer and futurist, who incorporates systems thinking and strategic foresight methodologies into her work. Her comprehensive formal education in law, design, and social science provides her with a broad skillset, allowing her to see problems from many different perspectives.
#5 Nerd Nite Hamilton – 8th January, 2024
Talk #1: The Personality Landscape & the Search for Meaning
What is human personality and why does it matter? I address this question in my talk by introducing the audience to some of the big ideas in contemporary personality psychology. I begin by reviewing what is arguably the most widely researched model of personality in all of psychology, the Big Five, along with the related notion of “personality traits.” Through a series of vignettes, I demonstrate some useful ways of thinking about personality traits and how these exist in our everyday lives. Backed by scientific research and clinical experience, this talk aims to highlight the importance of knowing one’s personality type in leading a meaningful life.
Speaker Info: Dr. Garri Hovhannisyan, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist in supervised practice at the Centre for Interpersonal Relationships and the Centre for Psychology and Emotional Health in downtown Toronto. Garri provides adult individual and couples psychotherapy services and psychological assessments for a wide range of difficulties. Garri’s clinical approach is grounded in the existential, humanistic, and psychoanalytic traditions, and his research is on the relationship between human personality and perception. You can learn more about Garri and his work in the world of psychology by visiting his webpage here: https://garrihovha.ca/
Talk #2: Feelings, Nothing More Than Feelings? Why Sensation Matters in an Age of Symbols
In our youth, we are taught to hold reason above ‘base’ visceral urges. As adults, we can paradoxically find ourselves feeling numb and joyless, languishing when to the outside eye we ought to content and happy. It seems like the modern understanding of mental life is missing a critical ingredient for happiness- the role of sensation in promoting mental balance. In this presentation, Prof. Farb will discuss a series of studies that recast feeling depressed as a state of sensory deactivation. Conversely, many evidence-based therapies including mindfulness training and cognitive therapy, appear to promote sensory engagement. This evidence raises the question: does a mature curriculum for living include practices in sense foraging and toggling between sensory and conceptual modes of being?
Speaker Info: Norman Farb, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Toronto Mississauga, where he directs the Regulatory and Affective Dynamics laboratory (www.radlab.zone). He studies the psychology of well-being, focusing on mental habits, such as how we think about ourselves and interpret our emotions. He is particularly interested in why people differ in their resilience to stress, depression, and anxiety. Prof. Farb’s work currently explores online training to support wellbeing, as well as neuroimaging to understand how emotional reactions predict wellbeing across the lifespan.
Talk #3: Electric Power Grids: Facts, Myths and Sustainability.
Understanding the requirements of a power grid and its infrastructure. What are the sources of our
electrical power supplies and are they sustainable, clean and renewable. How electricity is actual made in abundance to supply a city’s needs and when demand goes up. Including the role of Ontario’s GA (Global Adjustment) policy to help supplement power demands. Energy recovery usage from prime power off grid facilities.
Speaker Info: Aurel Carina has a degree in Engineering from McMaster University, in addition to holding two professional journeymen licenses; mechanical and EPG (electric power generation). Aurel has worked in the energy sectors for approximately 30 years. He started his career on oil platforms and in various roles worldwide, until he took a role with the local Caterpillar dealership, (where he was a technical instructor). Throughout the last 15 years, he has been involved with the Power Systems group, where he has been installing, commissioning and maintaining electric power systems in both commercial marine, and land base.
#4 Nerd Nite Hamilton – 11th December, 2023
Talk #1: Breathing Like Crap: A No-Nonsense Guide to Fixing Your Respiratory Mess
Do you know if you breathe properly? Spoiler alert… you’re probably doing it wrong! Learn about the power of your breath with Orthopedic & Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist, Nicole Smith. From dribbling with a sneeze to chronic low back pain, learn how your breathing mechanics are the foundation of how well your body moves and feels.
Speaker Info: Nicole Smith is a Registered Physiotherapist with a demonstrated history of working in the health, wellness, and fitness industry, and additional training in Pelvic Health Physiotherapy. With an extensive background in Yoga and Mindfulness, Nicole is committed to providing holistic patient-centred care with an emphasis on functional movement, self-empowerment and healthful living. With her Master’s of Science in Physiotherapy (McMaster University) and Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology (University of Florida), you will be sure to gain a wealth of mind-body knowledge!
Talk #2: What a Mess… Striving to Untie the Knot of Structural Injustice
Many recent discussions on issues of injustice within social and political philosophy accept the claim that structural injustice is a serious threat to the pursuit of social equity. The more complex the systems and institutions that organize our societies become, the more nuanced and collaborative our approach to rectifying these injustices must be. This is thanks to the fact that injustice produced by structures is a result of collective participation within these structures. So where do we start? How do we start? Emerging theories for how we might understand the nature of this form of injustice (as well as our resulting responsibility to remedy it) have made many notable strides. But the question remains: how do we, as individuals, practically engage with a problem as complex and messy as this one? How do we become part of the solution, rather than contributing to the problem? I discuss some practical and integrative approaches for how we might set ourselves up for success when striving to work with others to untie the knot that is structural injustice.
Speaker Info: Alana Jolly is a doctoral candidate in social and political philosophy at McMaster University. Her research focuses on social justice issues, particularly structural injustice. She studies the nature of this form of injustice, how we might understand our political responsibility to address it, as well as the foundational changes we should consider making to support individuals as they endeavor to fulfill this shared responsibility.
Talk #3: Returning to Eden? A Psychological Exploration of Creation Myths
It’s easy to make fun of ancient cultures for believing in myths that clearly never happened. But what if believing in myths means something different? Myths should not be interpreted as though they literally occurred, but to see whether they point to some deeper truth about the world or human nature. Depth psychology, and Jungian psychology in particular, offers a framework for making sense of myths that does not depend on believing in them literally. In this talk, Alex Rose will provide a very brief introduction to this framework, and then use it to share a few depth psychological interpretations of the story of Adam and Eve’s Fall in the Garden of Eden.
Speaker Info: Alex Rose is a graduate student at the University of Toronto who has always been fascinated by world mythology. He is currently studying philosophy of science and cognitive science. He is interested in how agency arises from the way organisms interact with their environments, and how that applies to our social lives. He was formerly a reporter and podcaster with the Canadian Jewish News.