Stuff They Don't Want You To Know

Jenner Furst, an award-winning documentarian known for "Thank You, Dr. Fauci," joins to discuss the enigmatic origins of COVID-19. He delves into the complexities of the pandemic narrative, focusing on the ethical dilemmas surrounding gain-of-function research and biodefense strategies. Furst highlights the challenges of storytelling amid political tensions and explores the influence of key figures like Dr. Fauci and Dr. Redfield. The conversation uncovers the hidden truths and controversies that shape public perception during this crisis.

Interesting topics explored include allegations of human trafficking linked to the Falun Gong movement and haunting stories from former child performers at Shen Yun. The hosts discuss eye movement desensitization techniques as potential therapies for trauma. They also delve into the fascinating concept of genetic memory, considering its implications for inherited behaviors. Additionally, there's a light-hearted conversation about conspiracy theories involving money laundering in the restaurant industry, showcasing a mix of serious issues and entertaining insights.

Ever wondered about the peculiar world of crime tourism? Explore the thrilling dilemmas of traveling to notorious crime hotspots. The hosts delve into how culinary delights intertwine with the ethics of such ventures. Discover the complex dynamics of organized crime, particularly from South America, and their sophisticated tactics. Learn about the challenges law enforcement faces against cross-border thefts and the implications of sharing vacation plans online. Join a fascinating discussion on the societal perceptions of crime and safety.

Holly Frey, co-host of the award-winning podcast Stuff You Missed in History Class, joins to discuss the sensational life of Marm Mandelbaum, America's first female mob boss. They explore her transformation from a struggling German immigrant into a savvy criminal mastermind during the Panic of 1857. The conversation highlights her duality as a nurturing mother and a skilled negotiator, revealing her unique pickpocketing school and her audacious escapes. Frey shares insights into how Mandelbaum blurred the lines between crime and legitimacy.

A tragic airplane crash raises suspicions of espionage, with Russia possibly involved. Meanwhile, Pokémon Go’s ties to military surveillance spark privacy concerns. In a bizarre twist, Dutch police discover a garden gnome made of MDMA during a drug bust. Delving into the infamous D.B. Cooper mystery, new leads on parachute modifications unravel more enigmas. Amidst corporate accountability challenges, KFC faces scrutiny over its sourcing practices, while the discussion touches on the risks of sabotaged logistics amid global tensions.

Dive into the captivating world of celebrity replacements, starting with the intriguing theory about Paul McCartney's alleged doppelgänger. Explore the intersection of fame and identity, and how celebrity culture influences personal perception. Uncover the dark history of body doubles in Hollywood and politics, including tales of Stalin and Saddam Hussein. The episode also examines the rise of deepfake technology, questioning the authenticity of public figures and the ethics of celebrity impersonation while highlighting both its entertaining and exploitative sides.

Discover the quirky origins of the term 'Kangaroo Court' and its absurd modern implications. The hosts delve into the mystery behind 'Blue Zones'—areas rumored to prolong life—while questioning the integrity of the studies. A listener shares a hilarious experience on a fake courtroom show, blending comedy with financial faux pas. They also explore societal disparities and festive consumer habits, all infused with puns and playful banter that keeps the conversation lively and engaging.

Dive into the quirky world of fecal transplants, where the unexpected potential of poop takes center stage! Learn how gut flora serves as a second brain, influencing our health and cravings. Explore the historical roots of fecal transplants and their surprising effectiveness against infections like C. difficile. Discover the emerging market for fecal donations and the ethical implications tied to this unconventional medical practice. Uncover the humorous yet serious side of gut health, bringing a fresh perspective to this taboo topic!

Dive into the intriguing world of lunar conspiracies and military ambitions with tales of Project Horizon, a long-lost plan for a U.S. moon base from the 1950s. Explore the duality of space exploration and military strategy amid the Cold War, including the use of former Nazi scientists. Discover the ambitious yet costly plans for a permanent lunar presence and the financial hurdles that accompany them. The whimsical conversations also touch on personal anecdotes and the deeper motivations behind moon missions. Could there be secrets hiding on the lunar surface?

A Swedish leader's fear of bananas sparks a quirky discussion on unusual phobias. Meanwhile, a bizarre case of bear fraud raises eyebrows, highlighting creativity in the furry community. Serious topics emerge as Iraqi politicians propose lowering the age of consent, igniting urgent discussions on child rights. The Onion's acquisition of Infowars brings satirical commentary to legal woes faced by Alex Jones. Lastly, a deep dive into economic policies reveals troubling connections to national security and accountability.