Stuff You Should Know

Ever heard of a war against emus? In post-WWI Australia, veterans faced a hilarious clash with these flightless birds as they invaded farmland. The podcast dives into the absurdity of the Emu War, exploring how military might was pitted against emus disrupting wheat crops. It also touches on the veterans' struggles with land grants and diminishing support during tough times. The ridiculous yet serious nature of this bizarre conflict reveals a unique slice of Australian history that is both informative and entertaining!

Explore the awe-inspiring construction of one of America’s engineering wonders, the Hoover Dam. Learn about the ambitious goals that drove its creation in the 1920s and how it transformed the southwestern landscape and economy. Delve into gripping stories of daring workers facing perilous conditions and the innovative techniques used to divert the Colorado River. Discover the intricate engineering challenges and the staggering concrete poured into this monumental project that holds back a finicky river, providing vital resources to major cities.

Dive into the fascinating world of yo-yos! Discover the physics behind their tricks, including inertia and angular momentum. Enjoy a humorous journey through history, from ancient origins to modern designs. Learn about the iconic Duncan brand and how it survived bankruptcy. Relive nostalgic moments and explore how yo-yos have been used in charity efforts. The conversation blends culture, science, and delightful trivia, making you appreciate this simple toy even more!

Discover the electric chair's surprising origins and its controversial role in American capital punishment. Delve into the ethical dilemmas and gruesome history behind this method, including infamous cases of botched executions. Explore the rivalry between power systems that influenced public perception and hear about the first person executed by this method. The discussion humorously contrasts the seriousness of the topic with personal reflections, ensuring an engaging journey through a dark yet fascinating part of history.

In 1980, a calm lake in Louisiana faced a shocking transformation when drilling mishaps triggered a catastrophic whirlpool. The event led to a dramatic intersection of human error and geological chaos, as miners found themselves battling rising waters. As eleven barges and a tugboat were pulled into the swirling depths, the lake's freshwater turned to saltwater. Remarkably, despite the mayhem, everyone escaped unharmed, turning a disaster into a unique tale of environmental change.

Explore the fascinating world of free-range parenting, where children are empowered to explore and learn independently. The hosts discuss its developmental benefits and societal challenges, contrasting it with overprotective parenting. Personal anecdotes highlight the privilege associated with this approach and its intersection with socio-economic factors. Delve into the fears surrounding child safety shaped by media, and the argument for viewing the world as less dangerous. Learn why fostering independence through unstructured play is crucial for today’s children.

Dive into the fascinating world of pollen, the plant's reproductive powerhouse, and its critical role in ecosystems. Discover humorous anecdotes about seasonal allergies and the importance of pollination methods like self and cross-pollination. Learn how pollen impacts agriculture and the ethical dilemmas surrounding GMOs. The hosts even tackle medication misconceptions, shedding light on the potential dangers of drug misuse. It's a whirlwind journey through botany and beyond, packed with insights and intrigue!

The dark interplay between Nazis and methamphetamine use is explored with surprising depth. Discover how drugs like Pervitin influenced military strategies and fueled rapid advancements during WWII. The discussion unveils the curious drug dependency of Adolf Hitler, revealing the bizarre relationship he had with his physician. From high-stakes battles to public deception, the podcast examines how this stimulant culture ultimately led to major consequences for the German military. Prepare for a mix of history and humor!

Ever wonder what happens to leftover campaign donations? The discussion dives into the complexities of unspent funds, referencing Jeb Bush's 2016 campaign. Explore the legal rules set by the FEC concerning these funds, revealing surprising restrictions. From the potential for charitable donations to tricky transfers among candidates, the ins and outs of campaign financing are unraveled. It's a fascinating look at the financial aftermath of elections—both the wins and the debts that follow.

Discover the ins and outs of rape kits, crucial tools in the fight against sexual assault. Explore the shocking backlog that leaves countless kits untested, hindering justice for survivors. Delve into the history and evolution of these kits, pivotal in shaping societal attitudes towards sexual violence. Learn about the emotional aftermath for victims and the importance of prompt medical assistance. The discussion emphasizes advocacy for improved resources and support, driving awareness about this ongoing crisis.