Stuff They Don't Want You To Know

Explore how fitness apps can unintentionally compromise personal privacy and national security. Delve into the unexpected hazards of Strava's global heat map, which revealed sensitive military locations. Discover the implications of activity data that might expose user homes and even target public figures. Hosts debate the balance between app convenience and safety, discussing real-world consequences tied to data leaks. This conversation highlights the evolving landscape of digital privacy in a connected world.

Julian Assange's journey from hero to villain highlights the complexities of whistleblowing and transparency. The founding of WikiLeaks revolutionized information leaks, notably with the release of the Iraq video. Assange’s asylum years raised eyebrows amid allegations and legal battles. The political ramifications of the DNC leaks during the 2016 election showcased the power of transparency and censorship. Ultimately, Assange's fate could set legal precedents affecting journalists and whistleblowers for years to come.

What’s behind the ongoing spike in prices post-pandemic? The hosts delve into supply chain breakdowns and the rise of grocery profit margins, highlighting the troubling concept of price gouging. They explore the impact of automation and corporate mergers on competition and costs, while also discussing shrinkflation and hidden fees. Additionally, they reflect on how tariffs provide companies an excuse to hike prices unnecessarily. Could persistent inflation signify a silent national emergency? Tune in for a sharp analysis of today's economic landscape.

Discover the shocking scandal behind Wells Fargo's unauthorized accounts. The hosts dive into the banking culture that prioritizes sales over ethics, revealing how impossible quotas led to widespread fraud. Learn about whistleblowers who raised alarms and the true scale of customer harm from millions of fake accounts. The discussion includes the bank's hefty settlements and the broader implications for the banking industry. Plus, get practical advice on how to safeguard your own finances amidst these issues.

The U.S. Treasury contemplates a controversial coin featuring a living president, digging into the laws against this practice. Qatar's evolving relationship with the U.S. raises eyebrows as promises of defense echo NATO dynamics. Meanwhile, Microsoft faces backlash over blocking military use of Azure for surveillance in Israel. On the censorship front, China's AI alters LGBTQ content in films, sparking heated discussions on ethical implications and market influence. Tune in for a wild ride through strange news!

What happens if humans disappear? Explore intriguing successor species like corvids, elephants, and even octopuses, with discussions on intelligence and adaptability. Delve into the eerie potential of fungi as global dominators and the implications of artificial intelligence inheriting the Earth. The hosts contemplate whether future societies will focus on survival or pursue art and exploration. Finally, they tackle the central dilemma of curiosity versus growth in a post-human civilization.

A mysterious theory about the Kaikōura lights sparks imaginative speculation. An insider's view of Big Tobacco reveals unexpected corporate smoking culture. Listeners share quirky anecdotes, including a coded message about lasagna quesadillas. Dark humor emerges with jokes sent in to lighten the mood after a heavy snuff film discussion. Uplifting pet photos and hopes for climate recovery create a warm connection with the audience. Lastly, a trivia tidbit about faces on U.S. currency adds a fun twist to the conversation.

Explore the fascinating evolution of Homo sapiens and recent skull discoveries that challenge our understanding of human origins. The hosts delve into the fragility of human achievements and the environmental damages of the Anthropocene. What happens after humans? They discuss survivors in a post-human world, from adaptable species like raccoons and corvids to the conditions that may shape future dominance. Tune in for speculative predictions on life after humanity and the enduring legacy we leave behind.

Dive into the chilling world of conspiracy theories surrounding HIV and AIDS. Discover Russia's covert Operation Infektion, a KGB disinformation campaign aimed at spreading false narratives about the virus's origins. The hosts reveal how misinformation sowed distrust and manipulated public opinion while shedding light on the campaign's long-lasting effects. From Soviet tactics to modern disinformation strategies, this exploration highlights the dangerous legacy of manipulation in today's media landscape. Buckle up for a thought-provoking journey!

A massive Bitcoin heist in London raises questions about legal restitution. Pete Hegseth's puzzling meeting with military leaders sparks concerns about transparency and operational security. Peter Thiel's alarming speeches link regulation to the rise of an 'Antichrist' figure, warning of technocracy’s lethal potential. The implications of billionaires shaping tech policies and the risks of unchecked power are also explored. Dive into these strange yet pressing topics with insight and humor!