Stuff You Should Know

Delve into the fascinating world of duels, where honor and rivalry clash in dramatic confrontations. Explore the U.S. Navy’s surprising guidelines on dueling and its historical significance. Uncover the complexities of female dueling and notable rivalries, like Hamilton vs. Burr. Hear how the rules of honor shaped societal views among the elite. Discover the evolution of dueling from jousting to firearms, and learn why this once-popular method of conflict resolution ultimately faded away.

Sloths are surprisingly fascinating creatures, known for their incredibly slow energy production. This unique trait may actually help protect them from predators. The discussion highlights sloths' quirky diets, their role as nature’s independent fertilizers, and their bond with algae. Their charming yet misunderstood nature is explored, along with the amusing challenges of their mating and parenting habits. The conversation mixes humor with insightful trivia, showcasing the complexities of sloths and the importance of understanding them in their natural habitat.

Dive into the quirky world of coconut cults and the bizarre life of August Englehart, who believed he could thrive solely on coconuts. Experience the highs and lows of a man’s dream to create a self-sufficient community on a tropical island, only to face tragic outcomes. Uncover the contrasting fates of cult members Yukins and Lutzow, revealing the darker side of their devotion. This captivating blend of humor and hardship highlights both the allure and the absurdity of extreme beliefs around natural diets.

Discover the intriguing life of Cleopatra, the last Pharaoh of Egypt, often overshadowed by her male counterparts. Explore her strategic alliances with powerful figures like Julius Caesar and Marc Antony, revealing her as a savvy political strategist. Unpack the contrasting perceptions of her legacy, from a cunning seductress to a feminist icon. Delve into the tumultuous backdrop of her reign and the manipulation of her image by her rivals. Experience the complexities of a ruler navigating the treacherous waters of politics and gender in ancient times.

Delve into the quirky science of yawning and why it's such a universal behavior. Discover the amusing myths and theories, including its contagious nature that seems to connect us on an empathetic level. Explore intriguing connections between yawning and autism, revealing how social cues play a role. Uncover the historical significance and physiological aspects, all while enjoying playful insights about how our pets react. This light-hearted journey through yawning offers laughs and intriguing facts that might just make you yawn!

The Fairness Doctrine once mandated broadcasters to present contrasting political opinions. Explore its historical context and the debates surrounding media regulation today. Discover how this doctrine influenced political discourse and the media landscape, and reflect on the challenges of free speech versus public interest. Listen as the hosts humorously ponder the implications of the doctrine on their own content. Plus, enjoy a lively discussion about the uniqueness of voices, akin to fingerprints, highlighting audience engagement.

Discover the extraordinary story of Mitsuye Endo, an often-ignored figure in American history. Her challenging experiences as a Japanese American during World War II highlight the resilience and injustice faced by her community. Explore her reluctant rise to advocate against Executive Order 9066, which led to a landmark Supreme Court decision deeming the internment unconstitutional. Delve into her impactful life post-internment and the ongoing discussion about the balance of power between the government and individual rights.

Is photographic memory real? The discussion dives into its scientific basis and debunks many myths surrounding it. Learn about the differences between true photographic memory and other types, like eidetic memory, while exploring extraordinary memory skills. Hear stories of individuals like Kim Peek, who had unique cognitive abilities, and the emotional burdens of those with highly superior autobiographical memory. The episode challenges perceptions of memory and reveals the fascinating connections between memory, synesthesia, and mnemonic techniques.

Dive into the fascinating world of one-hit wonders, exploring what truly defines them. Discover why some artists experience fleeting fame with just one catchy song, and the cultural implications this has. The discussion even widens to athletes and authors who also fit this label. Nostalgia plays a role as the hosts tackle remakes of beloved films, pondering how they affect cherished memories. The light-hearted banter with listener feedback adds a humorous touch, making for an engaging and enlightening conversation.

Discover the fascinating world of the Civil Air Patrol, a group of dedicated pilots aiding in search and rescue missions. Unearth its colorful history, from its WWII origins to the critical role it plays in national defense today. Listen to stories of heroism and community impact, as civilian pilots faced dangers during missions, contributing significantly to emergency services. Delve into the unique benefits of membership and the vital training available for aspiring aviators. Enjoy fun listener interactions and insights into the organization’s financial and public perception.