Stuff You Should Know

The hosts dive into the intriguing phenomenon of pruney skin, sparked by a playful bathtub story. They explore its evolutionary advantages, suggesting that wrinkled skin enhances our grip in wet conditions. Delving deeper, they discuss the scientific aspects, revealing vasoconstriction as the key player rather than osmosis. While one host champions its practical purpose, the other raises doubts—leading to a lighthearted debate on whether this skin response is a clever survival tactic or just an amusing side effect.

Explore the fascinating life of Rudolf Diesel, the visionary behind the diesel engine whose invention transformed transportation. Discover the complexities of his legacy and how his engine revolutionized industries, despite not aligning with his original vision. Delve into Diesel's struggles with family and health while facing financial hardships. Unearth the mystery of his sudden disappearance in 1913, sparking theories from foul play to deliberate vanishing. His story intertwines with the evolution of energy sustainability and industrial advancements.

Discover the fascinating world of timber, from sustainable harvesting practices to the critical relationship between humans and wood. Explore the differences between hardwood and softwood, and learn about the perils of logging—one of the riskiest jobs out there. Uncover the transformative journey of timber, including unique uses like mulch and premium flooring. Delve into conservation efforts initiated by historical figures and the importance of balancing industry demands with ecological health. It's an entertaining deep dive into a vital natural resource!

Discover the fascinating journey of car washes, from quirky traditions to the latest in automation and technology. Explore how the industry has boomed thanks to innovations like touchscreens and conveyor systems, balancing speed with quality. Learn about the rise of subscription models and their environmental impact, along with the historical significance behind keeping our vehicles spotless. This entertaining dive showcases personal anecdotes and the cultural importance of car washes throughout the decades.

Explore the intriguing origins of ZIP codes, starting from London's postal system in 1857. Discover their development in the U.S. since 1963, and how they have transformed mail delivery. Delve into the fascinating marketing strategies of the 60s and 70s that raised public awareness. Learn about the intricate structure of ZIP codes, where every digit matters, and uncover unique cases like Centralia and the quirkiest affluent ZIP codes. Get ready to appreciate the cultural and practical significance of these seemingly simple numbers!

Uncover the fascinating life of Dr. Bronner, the man behind the iconic soap. From his traumatic past during World War II to his advocacy for global unity, his journey is nothing short of remarkable. Discover how he used soap labels to promote a philosophy of 'All One,' becoming a counterculture icon. Hear about his dramatic escape from a mental institution and how his son helped save their family legacy. The episode dives into their six cosmic principles that shape their ethical business practices and community engagements.

Discover the chilling truth behind the 1921 Tulsa Massacre, a devastating event often mischaracterized. Explore the rise and fall of Greenwood, or 'Black Wall Street', a symbol of resilience amidst oppression. Hear about the radical racial tensions that ignited the violence, as well as the profound historical erasure that followed. This narrative connects past injustices to contemporary society and media representations, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and understanding in the pursuit of healing.

Dive into the bizarre tale of the 2004 Killdozer rampage in Granby, Colorado. Discover Marvin Heemeyer's transformation from frustrated local to the mastermind of a bulldozer wreaking havoc on his community. The narrative unfolds his grievances, personal struggles, and the chaotic events as he takes on local businesses and government. Eyewitness accounts and discussions on the aftermath reveal a town's resilience and the complex legacy of this infamous rampage. Plus, explore curious theater superstitions that add a dash of whimsy.

Discover the fascinating story of the Ritchie Boys, a diverse group of soldiers who played a crucial role in World War II. Their unique training at Camp Ritchie focused on intelligence gathering rather than brute force. They contributed to 60% of actionable battlefield intelligence, using innovative methods and cultural knowledge. The podcast highlights their bravery, including tales of Jewish refugees who became unsung heroes, and discusses their legacy, with hints of a potential film adaptation. It's an inspiring look at valor and ingenuity in the face of adversity.

Dive into the fascinating world of phone phreaking, where early hackers manipulated telephone systems like today's internet wizards. Discover creative techniques used by pioneers, including the story of a blind hacker with perfect pitch. Explore the colorful underground culture, complete with blue and red boxes, and meet legendary figures like Cap'n Crunch. The rise of phone phreaking resulted in a community driven by curiosity and ingenuity. Learn how this quirky subculture laid the groundwork for today's digital hacking landscape.