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Stuff They Don't Want You To Know

Latest episodes

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Mar 31, 2025 • 54min

Strange News: Signal Leaks Worse than 23andMe, Bird Jokes, Japan Bans Moonies

A surprising mix of strange news opens with tales of feuding birds and a pilot's passport meltdown. The hosts dive into Boeing's ambitious military contract amidst humorous tech discussions. They explore the dangers of data privacy connected to DNA companies while touching on the chaos of political communication and accidental leaks. Personal anecdotes add flavor as they reflect on airline delays intertwined with wildlife adaptation. It's a wild ride through current events, laughter, and quirky insights!
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Mar 28, 2025 • 1h 8min

Interview: OBSCURUM, with Gabe Lenners

Join Gabe Lenners, creator of the podcast Obscurum, as he dives into the baffling series of drone sightings across Nebraska and Colorado since 2019. He shares chilling personal accounts from witnesses who describe mysterious lights in the sky. The conversation also ventures into the implications of these aerial phenomena, touching on historical accounts and the ever-evolving drone technology. With a mix of skepticism and intrigue, Lenners leaves us questioning the origins and motives behind these unusual sightings.
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Mar 27, 2025 • 56min

Listener Mail: The Piasa Bird, Bots and the Post Office, and Horoscopes for AI

Dive into the legendary folklore of the Piasa Bird, a mythical creature that captivated ancient Native American culture. Discover how automation is reshaping communication at the Post Office, sparking laughter and reflection on human interactions. Explore the whimsical blend of astrology and AI, pondering their influence on politics and our lives. Enjoy hilarious anecdotes about quirky town names, all while embracing a light-hearted atmosphere filled with engaging discussions and thought-provoking insights!
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Mar 26, 2025 • 1h 10min

Why are so many spies getting busted?

Dive into the shadowy world of espionage where secrets are currency and dangers abound. Discover why so many spies are facing arrest and worse, unraveling the cloak of silence surrounding these incidents. The discussion contrasts the romanticized spy image with the gritty reality of intelligence work and modern surveillance. Learn about the shifting dynamics of espionage from Cold War tactics to contemporary vulnerabilities, along with the ethical dilemmas linked to informants. It’s a fascinating peek into a world where trust is fragile and stakes are high.
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Mar 25, 2025 • 58min

CLASSIC: What are "Black Sites"?

Dive into the shadowy world of black sites, secret detention facilities used by the U.S. in the wake of 9/11. Explore the ethical dilemmas surrounding enhanced interrogation techniques like waterboarding and the psychological impact on detainees. Discover the stark contrast between prison systems globally, highlighting the harsh conditions faced by inmates. The discussion prompts critical questions about civil liberties, human rights, and the moral responsibilities of nations in the context of security and accountability.
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Mar 24, 2025 • 1h 3min

Strange News: "Freedom Cities" are the New Company Towns, Sackler Family Doesn't Go To Jail

Dive into the unsettling idea of 'Freedom Cities,' where corporations could take over community governance, echoing the past of company towns. The Sackler family’s financial settlement regarding the opioid crisis raises eyebrows about accountability. Meanwhile, a humorous take on astronauts’ return and concerns from the remote Antarctic adds a twist of reality. Explore how these topics intertwine with our tech-driven lives and the ethical dilemmas that come with corporate influence. It's a blend of intrigue and serious implications!
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Mar 21, 2025 • 1h 14min

The Trouble With Tariffs: the Smoot-Hawley Act

Dive into the fascinating world of tariffs and their historical significance, particularly the Smoot-Hawley Act. Discover how tariffs can both protect domestic industries and create economic turmoil, often leading to unintended consequences. The discussion reveals real-world examples of recent U.S. tariffs and their implications for global trade. From comedic legislative terminology to the balance between protectionism and international relations, the hosts tackle the complexities of tariffs with humor and historical insight.
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Mar 20, 2025 • 48min

Listener Mail: (non-human) Cognition, Diplomatic Immunity, the Cops Tell Us About The Manchester Pusher

Listeners weigh in on fascinating topics, from non-human cognition to quirky diplomatic immunity anecdotes. Personal stories about pet training reveal the emotional bonds forged through positive reinforcement. The discussion takes a serious turn as they explore corporate challenges, linking Tesla sales surges to broader market manipulation. Dark theories about the Manchester Pusher and community safety concerns mix with light-hearted humor, showcasing a playful rapport while addressing serious societal issues.
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Mar 20, 2025 • 1h 12min

China Hacked The US Treasury -- And This Is Only The Beginning

With global impact and domestic dissent, the U.S. Treasury remains one of the world's most impactful institutions. What happens when this institution is compromised? In tonight's episode, the guys explore the harsh reality of successful conspiracies against the United States.They don't want you to read our book.: https://static.macmillan.com/static/fib/stuff-you-should-read/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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12 snips
Mar 19, 2025 • 1h 6min

CLASSIC: Film Conspiracies -- an Interview with Chuck Bryant, From Earlier

Charles W. "Chuck" Bryant, co-host of Stuff You Should Know and creator of the Movie Crush podcast, dives into the intriguing world of film conspiracies. They explore bizarre rumors like the alleged on-camera hanging in The Wizard of Oz and Stanley Kubrick's supposed hidden messages in Eyes Wide Shut. The conversation touches on psychological aspects that draw people to these theories and discusses how cinema influences societal beliefs. Chuck shares unique insights into the connections between films, military narratives, and the evolving trust in media technology.

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