Stuff You Should Know

Explore the chilling tale of the infamous Bloody Benders, a family who lured unsuspecting travelers to their Kansas homestead in the 1870s. Discover their sinister methods as hosts reveal gruesome discoveries at Drum Creek and a trap door that leads to a cellar of secrets. Tales of eyewitness escapes and the subsequent manhunt highlight the dark fascination with this unsolved mystery. With modern investigations into their identities and cultural references, this story captivates and horrifies, leaving lingering questions about the Benders' fate.

In August 1980, a bomb weighing 1,000 pounds was delivered to Harvey's Casino, igniting a dramatic true crime saga. Hosts explore the sophisticated design of the bomb and its intricate delivery process, including ransom demands and a failed fake money drop. They introduce the mastermind behind the chaos, John Waldo Burgess Sr., and his motives rooted in gambling losses. The aftermath includes massive explosions, chaos at the casino, and the subsequent investigation that led to arrests. The story’s twists keep the suspense alive, even decades later.

Dive into the chilling true crime tale of Ken McElroy, a man whose violent past and legal manipulation left a town in fear. Explore the web of intimidation used to silence witnesses and avoid justice. Discover the dark details of his abusive relationships and the fateful day he was murdered in broad daylight. The aftermath reveals a community's silence and lingering controversies, while law enforcement reflects on their failures. This gripping narrative blends horror and intrigue, showcasing a case that feels at once surreal and all too real.

Explore the harrowing events of the North Hollywood shootout, where a bank robbery turned into a chaotic battle. Learn about the robbers, Larry Phillips and Emil Matasaranu, their obsession with weaponry, and how their extreme planning unfolded on that fateful day. Discover the police's struggle as they faced unprecedented firepower and the controversial aftermath, including legal scrutiny and the impact on police militarization. The shootout's legacy continues to influence cultural narratives, highlighting both tragedy and lessons learned.

In July 1966, three women disappeared while enjoying a day at the beach, leaving behind a mystery that haunts the Indiana Dunes. Eyewitness accounts, disappearances of personal items, and delayed search efforts fueled speculation and theories. Some believe their ties to a criminal horse stable may explain their fate, while others suspect a staged disappearance. Various leads and sightings, including a distinctive boat, added to the intrigue. Despite years of searching, the case remains unsolved, igniting theories about drowning, abduction, or even foul play.

Discover the audacious 1963 Great Train Robbery, where a gang of 15 masterminds captured the public's imagination. Learn about the meticulous planning, including an insider known as 'Ulster Man' who played a key role. The heist involved tampering with train signals and securing a staggering £2.6 million. Delve into the aftermath, including the capture at Leather Slade Farm and the controversial trials that followed. Explore the legacy of Ronald Biggs, who became a folk hero while evading capture in Brazil.

Take a humorous journey through the legacy of The Far Side and how it shaped modern comedy. Discover what makes single-panel cartoons so unique and the brilliance behind Larson's iconic panels. Explore his rise from local gigs to syndication with fascinating reactions to his work. Delve into quirky fears and the infamous Cow Tools controversy. Learn about the scientific community's love for Larson and his life post-fame, along with his thoughtful retirement. Join in honoring the comedic genius who transformed cartoon history.

Explore the deadly world of the death cap mushroom, infamous for its lethal effects and a 10–15% fatality rate. Discover the chilling details of a 2016 outbreak in San Francisco that left lasting harm. Learn how this sinister fungus thrives through symbiosis with trees and entered North America via imported species. Delve into the toxins that target the liver and understand their dangerous mechanisms. Plus, get essential safety tips for mushroom foraging to avoid this perilous predator!

Sound effects add a layer of realism to movies and shows, often unnoticed yet crucial. Discover the fascinating history of Foley work, tracing its roots from vaudeville to modern filmmaking. Learn about the iconic Jack Foley, the man behind the craft, and the clever techniques that elevate sound design, from famous movies to nature documentaries. Delve into the world of iconic sound effects like the Wilhelm scream and how they shape audiences' experiences.

Explore the fascinating world of slime molds, those strange organisms that resemble piles of goo. Discover their unique classification as protists and their vital ecological roles. Learn about their altruistic behavior and complex life cycles, including how they form aggregates and search for food. Be amazed by experiments that showcase their problem-solving skills, like navigating mazes and mimicking Tokyo's rail systems. Dive into their learning mechanisms and the potential applications of their algorithms for urban planning!