
Dylan Thuras
Co-founder of Atlas Obscura and co-author of The Atlas Obscura Explorer's Guide to Inventing the World, appearing as the episode's featured guest to discuss the history of metal wires and telegraphs.
Top 5 podcasts with Dylan Thuras
Ranked by the Snipd community

Dec 27, 2025 • 52min
816 Vesterheim; Atlas Obscura Curiosities; Lessons Learned
Chris Johnson, president of Vesterheim, shares insights into the museum's bicentennial exhibit celebrating Norwegian-American heritage. He discusses how immigrant traditions endure and the rich history of the 1825 emigration wave. Dylan Thuras, co-founder of Atlas Obscura, explores curious locations and quirky artifacts around the globe, like hair museums and Bulgarian monuments. Listeners share amusing travel stories, from humorous language mishaps in France to magical moments in Venice, enriching our appreciation for the unexpected in travel.

Dec 16, 2025 • 28min
How metal wires changed the world!
Join Dylan Thuras, co-founder of Atlas Obscura, as he delves into the transformative impact of metal wires on communication. Discover how the telegraph opened new channels for people to connect across vast distances. Dylan shares fascinating tales of early electric experiments, the challenges of laying the first transatlantic cable, and how this technology paved the way for modern communication. Plus, there’s a new Mystery Sound to solve and exciting news about the opening of Brains On Headquarters!

Dec 9, 2025 • 30min
How mastering metal saved lives
Join Dylan Thuras, co-founder of Atlas Obscura and co-author of a guide on historical inventions, as he unveils the fascinating world of metal. Discover how Japanese swords are meticulously forged and the ancient techniques using iron sand and charcoal. Learn about the game-changing invention of steel wire ropes that revolutionized mining safety. From swinging methods to mechanized wire production, Dylan paints a vivid picture of how mastery over metal has shaped industries and saved lives throughout history.

Sep 29, 2025 • 23min
Collaboration: The Heart of Innovation
Dylan Thuras, cofounder of Atlas Obscura, joins Jennifer Swanson, an award-winning children’s author, to delve into their ambitious exploration of invention and technology. They discuss how collaboration fuels innovation and the importance of interdisciplinary learning. The conversation emphasizes the role of play and curiosity in the invention process, highlighting how everyday objects can inspire new ideas. Thuras shares insights on connecting historical inventions, while Swanson suggests engaging classroom activities that trace the evolution of ideas.

Jul 16, 2024 • 18min
My Life in Three Places: Dylan Thuras
Join explorer and co-founder, Dylan Thuras, as he shares how the Corn Palace, House on the Rock, and Gold Medal Flour have shaped his life. From childhood road trips to transformative experiences in Budapest, explore the impact of unique destinations on his passion for discovery.


