Stuff You Should Know

Dive into the captivating world of M.C. Escher and his mind-bending art. Discover how his upbringing and travels shaped his revolutionary approach to art and mathematics. Hear about his transition from architecture to graphic design, influenced by Italian landscapes. Explore the emotional depth in his printmaking techniques and how they resonate today. The discussion also covers the complex interplay of order and chaos in his work, making his art both timeless and thought-provoking.

Discover the whimsical history of currency, from cows and cacao to modern electronic money. Dive into quirky anecdotes about using unexpected items like Tide detergent as currency. Learn how the gold standard shaped financial systems and explore the fascinating journey of cowrie shells. The discussion ranges from the evolution of money to the challenges of inflation, all spiced with humor and nostalgia. Plus, enjoy a heartfelt tribute to a loyal fan that adds a personal touch to the exploration of this essential topic.

Anorexia and bulimia are highlighted as the deadliest mental illnesses, greatly impacting individuals of all ages. The hosts dive into the psychological and physical complexities, discussing societal pressures and the role of media in shaping body image. They emphasize the importance of early intervention and compassionate support, while also exploring the genetic and environmental factors at play. Additionally, the episode touches on misconceptions and the need for a comprehensive approach to treatment, making for a poignant discussion on these critical issues.

Dive into the fascinating world of whiskey and bourbon to uncover their key differences! Discover the stringent regulations that define these spirits and learn why bourbon is America's native drink. Explore the unique characteristics of Tennessee whiskey, including the distinct charcoal mellowing process of Jack Daniel's. Plus, enjoy a discussion about personal preferences between smooth varieties and high-proof options, complete with anecdotes from whiskey-tasting events. It's a spirited conversation you won't want to miss!

Dive into the delightful world of gin, where enthusiasm meets humor! Explore its rich cultural significance and the fascinating history from medicinal roots to cocktail staple. Discover the artisan methods of distillation and how unique botanicals shape the flavor. Delve into the evolution of gin, from early regulations to modern innovations like the continuous still. Enjoy anecdotes and insights that make gin not just a drink, but a vibrant part of social life. Plus, hear how a listener took inspiration to start a beef jerky company!

Dive into the fascinating world of amnesia and its real-life implications, contrasting with Hollywood depictions. Discover profound cases like Clive Wearing, revealing the surreal challenges of memory loss. Explore how emotions and stress intricately influence memory, and learn about the complex workings and classifications of memory types. The episode also sheds light on coping mechanisms, cultural representations, and even ethical considerations surrounding this mysterious condition.

Discover the surprising truth about gap years, which are not just for post-college, but a chance for high school grads to travel, volunteer, and grow. The hosts share their own adventures and contrast American views with the more common practices in Europe and Australia. Dive into the history of the gap year, from its humble 1960s beginnings to its modern evolution with organized travel. Learn about the mental health benefits of taking time off and humorous anecdotes about travel experiences. Get ready to rethink the educational journey!

Macadamia nuts are actually seeds, not nuts! Discover their intriguing journey from Australia to Hawaii and the hurdles they overcame. Learn about their ideal growing conditions, culinary versatility, and unique flavor profile. Find out why they're so pricey, uncovering the labor and growth factors involved. Plus, explore their impressive nutritional benefits, including vitamins and healthy fats, wrapped in humorous anecdotes about overindulgence and a buoyancy experiment with these tasty treats.

The sudden collapse of the ancient Maya civilization remains one of history's great mysteries. A captivating theory links their decline to catastrophic climate change, exploring how environmental factors intertwined with warfare and water scarcity. Discover groundbreaking technologies like LIDAR that unveil hidden Maya cities, alongside engaging anecdotes about their cultural achievements. The discussion extends to the broader implications of climate on past civilizations, emphasizing the critical need for sustainable practices today.

Discover the mesmerizing world of fractals, where simple patterns reveal complex beauty. Delve into their historical significance, mathematical foundations, and aesthetic appeal, showcasing their incredible presence in nature and art. Explore how fractals revolutionized CGI, bringing stunning realism to film, and learn about their surprising applications in medical technology, aiding tumor detection. Plus, hear personal stories that link the intricate patterns of fractals to complex biological systems.