Stuff They Don't Want You To Know

Could gut feelings be messages from the future? This discussion dives into the nature of intuition and its evolutionary roots as a survival mechanism. The hosts debate whether these instincts are mere coincidences or genuine precognitive insights. They explore the fascinating intersection of memory, time, and intuition while sharing intriguing anecdotes about inherited intuition. With insights from researchers and the science behind anticipatory brain activity, they leave listeners questioning the very fabric of time and decision-making.

Dive into the intriguing world of faith healing, where staged performances blur the line between belief and manipulation. Explore the hidden history of Africville, revealing broken promises to Black Loyalists. Get in the holiday spirit with bizarre Christmas stories and the political satire surrounding Santa. A heartfelt letter from Malaysia adds a global twist, while discussions on Russian oligarchs and unorthodox healing rituals keep the conversation lively. It's a mix of culture, mystery, and unexpected insights!

Explore the eerie world of shrunken heads, or tsantsas, rooted in fascinating ritual practices far from Western pop culture. Discover how these artifacts symbolized power and the soul in ancient times, as hosts detail the shocking process of creating them. Uncover the Shuar belief in trapping spirits to protect communities and how capitalism commodified this sacred tradition. The discussion also dives into colonial trade impacts and the rise of fakes, revealing the complex legacy behind a once-noble practice turned into kitsch.

Explore the fascinating mystery of the Bronze Age collapse, a time when powerful civilizations crumbled into chaos. Discuss the pivotal role of bronze and tin in transforming societies and the economic shifts that ensued. Unearth theories linking natural disasters like volcanic eruptions and droughts to societal breakdowns and raiding by the enigmatic Sea Peoples. Delve into how resource stress sparked violence and the complex interplay of factors that led to an era of lost literacy and a dark age, while drawing parallels to modern vulnerabilities.

The hosts dive into the chaos in Venezuela, discussing its geopolitical significance and oil reserves. They explore past U.S. interventions and the implications of political events, including Maduro's challenges. A light-hearted turn comes with food conspiracies, specifically the McRib lawsuit questioning its meaty claims. They also analyze the quirky 'pizza index' and its correlation with military activity. With discussions on maritime strategies and public media funding, the show blends serious topics with humorous insights.

Funding cuts are pushing the brightest U.S. minds abroad, causing a significant brain drain that threatens innovation. The hosts examine the history of brain drain, its local impacts, and the modern factors driving scientists away today. They delve into the contrast between rising defense budgets and slashed civilian research funds, while highlighting the role of new global connectivity in facilitating talent movement. The episode also raises awareness of the personal sacrifices faced by researchers and urges civic engagement from listeners.

Explore the eerie world of poltergeists, from the origins of the term to their chaotic antics in pop culture. Discover global folklore and the striking similarities in supernatural legends across cultures. Delve into famous cases like the Bell Witch and Esther Cox, questioning authenticity and possible explanations. Uncover the sociological dynamics of reports, including the role of children and trauma. Finally, ponder scientific skepticism and the intriguing studies linking brain activity to feelings of ghostly presence.

Just back from a break, the hosts dive into the controversial National Endowment for Democracy. They explore its quasi-governmental nature and its troubling comparisons to the CIA. From its Cold War origins to modern-day accusations of astroturfing, the conversation reveals the complexities of how NED influences foreign affairs. Global reactions range from bans in Russia and China to debates in the US Congress. The intriguing debate on whether NED promotes democracy or just instigates chaos adds an unexpected twist.

Tim Livingston, a sports journalist and creator of the Whistleblower podcast, delves into the shocking gambling scandal involving NBA referee Tim Donaghy. He discusses the pervasive corruption in the NBA, revealing how referees can significantly influence games and betting odds. Tim connects officiating to organized crime, highlighting claims of referees being on a mob payroll. He also explores the necessary reforms for officiating to ensure transparency and accountability in the league.

The podcast dives into the chilling case of two missing girls in Milwaukee, exploring the failures of local police to issue an Amber Alert. As a frustrated community takes matters into their own hands, tensions rise between civilians and law enforcement. Accounts reveal a chaotic scene outside a suspected duplex, leading to fires and gunfire. The discussion raises questions about police handling of missing persons and past trafficking reports. Unanswered questions linger as local narratives clash, leaving the community in a state of distrust and frustration.