Words with Nerds

Join us for Words with Nerds, an infotainment bonanza that's like TED Talks, but way funnier. A great show for information sponges who love to laugh!

Speakers Dr. Aaron LeBeau, PhD (Radiolab, UW-Madison Department of Pathology), Dr. Shanny Lyft, PhD (UW-Stevens Point, Institute for Research in the Humanities), and Holly Rucker, MS (UW-Madison Department of Cellular & Molecular Biology, Atlas Improv) share funny presentations on snake reproduction, how sharks might cure cancer, and more.

Hosted by: Sasha Rosser (winner of Madison's Funniest Comic Competition 2025)

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November 20, 2025

Doors open at 6:30PM, show starts at 7:00PM

Crucible

3116 Commercial Avenue

Madison, WI 53713

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Tickets are $15 advance, $20 DOS.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/words-with-nerds-tickets-1704923805999

SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR STUDENTS (CASH ONLY): $5 cover with a student ID.

RSVP on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/events/843461342173915

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Seating is first come, first served. It is suggested that you arrive at the venue when doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime in order to get your pick of seats.

Recommended for ages 18+. Per venue rules, attendees under 21 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. You will be asked to show a photo ID upon check-in.

Lineup subject to change.

We do not offer refunds, but if you purchase a ticket and are unable to attend, please contact Cheshire Cat Comedy at [email protected] to redeem for free admission to a future show of your choice. Refunds are issued automatically in the event of a show's cancellation.

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Words with Nerds mixes TED Talks with stand-up by bringing together local specialists and comedians to present on a topic of their choice. Come for the laughs and walk away with strange new knowledge – previous performers have regaled audiences with presentations about dinosaur rib anatomy, a principal component analysis of the Taco Bell Menu, nipple equality activism in Madison, how people misuse statistics, what can be learned from watching 100 Hallmark movies, how to perform self-surgery, and much, much more.

Past presenters span local entrepreneurs, professors, researchers, activists, union organizers, surgeons, engineers, and stand-up comedians with an itch to nerd out on stage.

Parties interested in presenting at Words with Nerds are invited to send their pitches to [email protected].

Host or Publisher Cheshire Cat Comedy