Stuff They Don't Want You To Know

What happens when people face life-threatening situations? They often report feeling a mysterious presence urging them to persevere. This phenomenon, known as the 'Third Man Factor,' ties into cultural beliefs like guardian angels and divine intervention. The hosts explore riveting historical examples, like Shackleton's harrowing journey. They dissect the psychological implications of these experiences, blurring the lines between science and spirituality, while inviting reflections on companionship in moments of profound crisis.

Discover the surprising link between the CIA and psychic phenomena as intelligence officers trained in astral projection and ESP at the Monroe Institute. Explore the Institute's controversial use of hypnosis and sound techniques to delve into altered states of consciousness. The discussion also humorously connects these practices to Area 51 and government secrets, while raising questions about mind control and ethics. Journey through military attempts at remote viewing, and the audacious quest to glimpse Mars as it was a million years ago!

In a fascinating dive into unusual global happenings, the discussion reveals a spy shortage gripping Australia and the UK. A Vietnamese billionaire's dramatic escape from execution and a detective's tragic demise add layers of intrigue. The term 'brain rot' is humorously unveiled as Oxford's word of the year. Meanwhile, South Korea faces a tumultuous political scene, and celestial threats loom as a massive asteroid zips by Earth. All these stories blend humor with deeper reflections on the complexities of international affairs.

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.