Stuff You Should Know

Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, used to mean a one-way ticket to banishment. But once medicine trained its sights on wiping out what might be the most ancient disease to afflict humans, it has become treatable and even accepted. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans may need a new home, and terraforming might be the solution. The discussion highlights potential planets for colonization, particularly Mars, exploring how to create sustainable atmospheres. Scientists are examining the historical geology of these planets and discussing innovative concepts like using cyanobacteria and even comets. The challenges of extreme conditions on Venus are debated, illustrating the grand scale of energy required for such monumental transformations. It’s a fascinating mix of science, creativity, and the future of humanity.

With billions of dollars raised, Kickstarter has singled itself out as the go-to site for creative crowdfunding. But not without some controversy along the way. Learn all about how this artistic business model operates in today's episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This podcast explores collective hysteria, delving into the phenomenon of mass psychogenic disorder and discussing historical cases. It also examines the power of the mind and how beliefs can influence our perception of pain. The podcast explores cases of environmental sickness and electromagnetic sensitivity, and how the media plays a role in spreading mass psychogenic disorder. Additionally, it discusses the power of belief and its impact on health, presenting a study that found a link between belief and likelihood of death from heart disease. The hosts also share their personal story of grief and discuss epilepsy awareness.

The podcast discusses the impact and contributions of the Enlightenment, including the shift towards reason, the dominance of the will of the people, and economic changes. It explores philosopher John Locke's concept of the tabula rasa and Voltaire's salons. The podcast also examines the threat the Enlightenment posed to the monarchy and church, and its global impact. Additionally, it delves into the emphasis on arts, science, and economics during the Enlightenment and the link between prion disease and mad cow disease.

For a while in the 1980s, people were fascinated and confused about what exactly crop circles were. Now we know that they aren't signs left from aliens, but art made by humans. Learn all about these stunning, large form art installations in today's episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What was originally designed to encourage innovation by rewarding the people who create technological advances, the U.S. patent system has become a big mess. Wade into this surprisingly interesting mire to learn how to save this important institution. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first limousines weren't even cars! Learn all about the history of limousines, how they're made and some of the most creative and expensive amenities you can find inside them in this episode with Josh and Chuck. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn about the potential of nuclear fusion to solve the world's energy and climate change problems. Discover the differences between nuclear fusion and fission and the challenges in designing and containing fusion reactors. Explore the methods for achieving nuclear fusion and the status of cold fusion research. Plus, enjoy some lighthearted discussions and ads.

Get ready to be creeped out and join Chuck and Josh as they read you with two spooky classic horror stories, The Striding Place and The Pale Man in this special bonus Halloween episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.