Stuff You Should Know

Explore the intriguing life of James K. Polk, the eleventh president, who had his burial site moved not once, but twice! Discover the controversial decisions surrounding his final resting place and how public sentiment impacted his legacy. Delve into Polk's significant achievements, from the establishment of the Naval Academy to the complexities of the Mexican-American War. Uncover the mysteries of his death and the misdiagnosis of cholera, painting a multifaceted portrait of this historical figure.

Dive into the mesmerizing world of crystals, where order defies entropy! Discover how their unique structures are formed and the science behind their beauty. Learn about synthetic gemstones and the intriguing artistic processes that bring them to life. Explore crystal healing beliefs while balancing scientific skepticism. There's also a humorous segment on creative baby names inspired by listeners, adding a fun twist to the discussion.

Delve into the intricate art of dying as hosts illuminate the physiological and emotional changes we face at life's end. Expect humorous insights on historical perspectives, societal attitudes, and the ethical debates surrounding assisted suicide. Learn about the various types of death, the role of palliative care, and the significance of being present with a dying loved one. Unravel the biological processes post-death, sprinkled with fascinating tidbits on decomposition. A blend of humor and depth makes this exploration truly unique.

Explore the wild world of misfortune, from absurd tales of historical bad luck to a meteorite strike on a woman. Discover how Ron Wayne's exit from Apple changed destiny, and dive into the unbelievable saga of Pete Best losing his chance to join The Beatles. The podcast also shares heartwarming stories of community triumphs, like a village winning the lottery during tough times, and reflects on the legacy struggles of inventor Antonio Meucci. It's a captivating mix of humor and poignancy, celebrating the unpredictable nature of luck.

Honorary degrees are intriguing and often controversial. They trace back to Oxford in 1478, serving as marketing tools for universities. The selection process can stir debates, especially regarding notable recipients versus controversial choices. These degrees can motivate graduates, yet spark discussions about the value of legitimate academic achievements. The podcast dives deep into the significance, history, and cultural impact of these honorary titles, revealing why many aspire to hold one, even as they raise eyebrows.

Discover the fascinating history of trampolines, from their invention by acrobats in the 30s to their Olympic status. Uncover the physics behind the perfect bounce and the safety challenges that come with it. Laugh at nostalgic tales while also learning about the potential hazards, especially for young jumpers. Explore unique trampoline sports like Spaceball and the evolution from a backyard amusement to a serious athletic competition. It's a delightful blend of fun, fitness, and a dose of reality about trampoline safety!

Dive into the fascinating world of lie detectors and the science behind their operation. Discover the origins of the polygraph, including its dubious beginnings with a police officer turned inventor. Explore the subjective nature of lie detection and the technical nuances that make results contentious. Laugh along as the hosts discuss criticism of the polygraph and experiment with witty listener suggestions. Unpack myths about deception detection while navigating the ethical dilemmas of new technologies in this captivating conversation.

Dietary supplements are a multi-billion dollar industry, yet their effectiveness remains uncertain. The lack of FDA regulation raises questions about what actually goes into these pills. The speakers share alarming stats on recalled products and discuss the importance of verifying supplement safety with reputable certifications. They also dive into the risks of certain supplements, like Ephedra, and emphasize the need for thorough research and professional advice. With humor and insight, they examine the balance between whole food vitamins and synthetic options.

Nicknames can be quirky and delightful! Discover how names like Charles morph into Chuck and how medieval linguistic creativity turned Richard into Dick. The podcast dives into the evolution of names over time, exploring the playful transformations of Robert into Bob and even delving into the curious connection between John and Jack. With humor and anecdotes, the conversation highlights the cultural influences shaping these affectionate monikers and encourages listeners to invent their own unique nicknames!

The podcast revisits the iconic Live Aid concert of 1985, showcasing its cultural significance and powerful performances. It discusses the emotional impact of the event and its role in raising awareness for Ethiopian famine relief. The hosts share behind-the-scenes chaos and humorous anecdotes, highlighting memorable moments like Queen's legendary set. They also reflect on the evolution of charity concerts and the challenges faced by organizers, emphasizing Live Aid's lasting legacy in music and humanitarian efforts.