Stuff You Should Know

Delve into the dark world of conversion therapy, a misguided attempt to change sexual orientation. The hosts unpack its historical origins, from 19th-century practices to infamous figures like Joseph Nicolosi. They reveal how the APA's 1973 decision reshaped this narrative. Survivor stories expose the severe harms inflicted, while scientific consensus debunks effectiveness. Listen for legal measures against this practice and how cultural representations keep the conversation alive. It's both eye-opening and crucial for understanding LGBTQ+ rights.

In 1996, a group of German tourists vanished in Death Valley, sparking a mystery that remained unsolved for years. A ranger's discovery of their abandoned van led to a massive search effort with little to show for it. The hosts delve into the dangers of Death Valley and the tourists’ misguided journey, exploring theories ranging from staged disappearances to foul play. The amateur sleuth Tom Mahood eventually cracked the case, uncovering items and remains that revealed the family's tragic fate. The story intertwines adventure, danger, and a deep dive into human decisions.

Explore the truth behind the term 'peace pipe' and discover the actual ceremonial names used by Native Americans. Learn about the historical and spiritual significance of these pipes across various tribes and their ancient traditions. Delve into the construction of pipes, the sacred materials used, and the deep connection to spirituality and prayer. Discover the continuation of these traditions in contemporary Native cultures, showcasing the enduring legacy of this important aspect of Native American heritage.

Discover the unsettling reality of nuclear waste management and the convoluted methods we employ to store it. Explore what spent fuel looks like and the surprising amount each person contributes. Uncover the controversial past of Yucca Mountain and Finland's innovative solution with its deep geological repository. Delve into recycling spent fuel's potential to power the U.S. for decades while grappling with associated security concerns. Learn about advanced methods to reduce long-term radioactivity, making the future of nuclear waste management a pressing and fascinating issue.

Delve into the fascinating world of extinction, where 99% of all species are believed lost. Learn about the historical resistance to acknowledging extinction and discover the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs. Debate the roles of human expansion versus climate change in megafauna extinctions. Explore alarming modern extinction rates and the bizarre winners like jellyfish in a changing ocean. Finally, ponder the ethics of de-extinction while uncovering inspiring 'Lazarus' species that have made a surprising comeback!

Join Josh and Chuck in a spine-tingling exploration of two eerie tales for Halloween. Delve into E.F. Benson's "Caterpillars," where a man's eerie discovery of crab-like creatures spirals into horror. Then, unravel the mystery of "The Deep Drowse," where a couple trapped in their oxygen-sealed cave confronts a terrifying silence and the chilling fate of humanity. With atmospheric storytelling and unexpected twists, this Spooktacular will leave you on the edge of your seat!

Dive into the chilling tale of the Bell family, haunted by a malevolent spirit in 1817 Tennessee. From eerie encounters with a dog-headed creature to the witch's haunting voice, the spooky saga intensifies. Witness the witch's torment of poor John Bell and the disruption of his daughter Betsy's engagement. Explore community responses and the intriguing theories surrounding local figure Kate Batts. Today, visitors can still explore the legend through tours and attractions, keeping the haunting alive!

Dive into the chilling world of a horror masterpiece that defies expectations! Discover how influences like Ed Gein shaped its creation and the unique casting decisions made under a tight budget. Learn why John Larroquette's narration and the infamous dinner scene haunt viewers. Explore the film's raw shoot conditions, the unsettling embodiment of Leatherface by Gunnar Hansen, and the tricky distribution journey post-release. With a legacy that redefined horror, this iconic film remains unreplicable and celebrated each Halloween!

In 2005, a woman found a human finger in her chili at Wendy's, sparking a media frenzy and a criminal investigation. The hosts dive into the absurdity of the situation, detailing how Wendy's managed the chaos while launching their own inquiry. As suspicions about the woman's past lawsuits grew, the investigation uncovered the bizarre journey of the finger from an accident site to the chili. Ultimately, the hosts discuss the fallout from the case, including the convictions and the company's losses, revealing a wild tale of fraud and deception.

Ever wondered about the science behind screams? Dive into the fascinating world of human and animal screams, exploring reasons from evolutionary benefits to newborn communication. Discover how our brains react to screams and why specific sounds trigger fear responses. Learn about different types of screams, from joy to pain, and their roles in society. Plus, hear about famous movie screams and how vocal techniques can keep singers safe. Can screaming relieve pain? The hosts discuss the potential benefits and even touch on primal scream therapy's effectiveness.