Stuff They Don't Want You To Know

True story: Ben, Matt and Noel know 'witches.' We’re all familiar with the spooky, stereotypical witch depicted in film, fiction and folklore – a creepy crone with a pointy hat, riding a broom through the sky and cackling at the moon, often accompanied by her animal sidekick. But how accurate are these depictions? Were there ever really any covens, any infernal Black Masses and secret rituals dedicated to the powers of darkness? Join Stuff They Don’t Want You To Know as the guys explore fact, fiction and controversy around the real-life stories of witches and covens. (Spoiler, this is a live show, which means the thing they call Ben is required to stay on the rails.)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.

Explore the fascinating world of cryptids beyond Bigfoot and Nessie! Delve into bizarre creatures like the Incan Yamba and the Emela Ntoka, blending folklore with historical accounts. Hear striking tales of the Thunderbirds and Jabafofi spiders, while pondering the challenges cryptozoologists face. The hosts humorously debate myth versus reality and discuss how modern technology impacts our understanding of these elusive beings. Uncover the cultural significance of these supernatural entities and their place in our shared imagination.

Cancer's emotional toll hits hard, prompting exploration of dubious cure claims throughout history. The discussion tackles conspiracy theories about hidden treatments and profit motives in pharmaceuticals. Insights from personal encounters highlight advancements in cancer diagnosis, urging critical thinking about medical information. Controversial figures in alternative cancer treatments are scrutinized for their lack of scientific backing, and humorous moments arise when discussing natural remedies and unexpected asparagus effects. Overall, fact and fiction intertwine in the quest for truth.

On March 8, 2014, Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 vanished without a trace, sparking numerous conspiracy theories. The discussion highlights the chilling moments leading up to the flight's disappearance, including mysterious calls to the cockpit and communication breakdowns. Theories range from the pilot's emotional state to advanced anti-hijacking technology. As debris is discovered in the Indian Ocean, the emotional toll on victims' families and the intrigue surrounding the ongoing investigation are brought to light. Why does this mystery captivate so many?

In 2016, eerie clown sightings sparked global panic, starting with a viral photo from Green Bay. This phenomenon revealed deep-seated fears around clowns, influenced by horror films and cultural figures like John Wayne Gacy. Social media fueled hysteria, leading to unjust repercussions for professional clowns everywhere. The podcast dives into the twisted relationship between entertainment and societal fears, inviting listeners to reflect on how such panics can happen in today's digital age.

Uncover the wild connection between the CIA and magicians. Dive into John Mulholland's transformation from a young magician to a key figure in espionage. Explore the secretive oaths of magicians and their surprising ties to Cold War strategies. Discover how magic techniques informed CIA operations, blurring lines between illusion and intelligence. Delve into the impact of magic on soldiers during WWII. Finally, learn about the clandestine lives of magicians involved in covert activities and the intricate balance of deception in high-stakes scenarios.

Listeners dive into intriguing topics like the dual life of incarcerated firefighters and the complex social implications of their efforts. Attention spans in the digital age come under scrutiny, exploring how screen time reshapes our reading habits. Plus, a combustively humorous look at the risks of exploding military-grade tech sparks curiosity about technological warfare. All this with engaging listener stories and calls for systemic change in how society values unique contributions.

Delve into the surprising collaboration between the CIA and magicians, exploring how unconventional methods blurred the lines between fact and fiction. Uncover the intriguing history of espionage in the U.S., with tales of figures like Benjamin Franklin and the evolution of military tactics from the Revolutionary War onward. Discover the OSS's whimsical side during WWII and the morally complex legacy of the CIA, including controversial programs like MKUltra. The blend of truth, myth, and playful commentary keeps the conversation lively and engaging.

Dive into the mysterious world of Nazi looting during World War II! Discover the tales of hidden treasure, like the scuttled SS Minden and the legendary Lake Toplitz. The dark legacy of looted wealth unfolds, revealing complex Swiss banking conspiracies. Humor and historical insight collide as myths about Nazi gold are unraveled. Plus, learn about modern implications of this hidden treasure and the ethical dilemmas surrounding post-war wealth recovery. Will the past's secrets ever be fully uncovered?

Justin Richmond, host of the acclaimed music podcast Broken Record, joins the conversation. They dive into a bizarre proposal to rename Greenland and discuss AI's emerging role in governance, raising ethical questions. The episode also reveals shocking tales like an olive oil heist and Sweden's first conviction for drunk drone driving. With a humorous take on political controversies, including Eric Adams' corruption dismissal, listeners are treated to a blend of absurdity and intriguing insights on sustainability and legal innovations.