Stuff You Should Know

Explore the fascinating history of AM radio, from its 1920 launch to its golden age filled with live sports and iconic fireside chats. Discover how it became a family entertainment staple and the rise of soap operas and radio dramas. Learn about the transition to DJ culture in the 1960s and the impact of regulations like the Fairness Doctrine. Delve into the debate over AM's presence in modern cars and the cultural shift from AM to FM. It's a nostalgic journey through the soundwaves that shaped a generation.

Dive into the fascinating world of personality tests, exploring their ancient origins and the flaws of categorizing human behavior. Discover how the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator rose to fame, despite its criticisms for oversimplifying personalities. Uncover the differences between projective and objective tests, and why psychologists lean towards the Big Five model. Learn about the practical implications of these tests, the common misconceptions they create, and how they can sometimes reinforce narrow social norms. Finally, hear stories of listeners reflecting on their own experiences with anxiety and self-discovery.

Dive into the deliciously intriguing world of Pop-Tarts! Discover how this iconic breakfast treat emerged from the 1960s convenience food boom. From its quirky origins to the technical tweaks that prevented exploding pastries, you'll learn about the battle between Kellogg and Post. Hear tales of crazy experiments like toaster strudels, and the wild fire safety warnings associated with those gooey fillings. Plus, explore Pop-Tarts' marketing magic aimed at kids and its significant place in pop culture. It's a sweet journey you won't want to miss!

Explore the eerie phenomenon of Third Man Syndrome, where people in dire situations sense a guiding presence urging them to survive. Hear tales from Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition and how T.S. Eliot's poetry shaped the experience's name. Discover accounts from climbers and 9/11 survivors, showcasing this strange sensation across various life-or-death events. The discussion delves into possible explanations, including hardwired instincts and theories about the mind, all while reflecting on the comfort of having an internal companion in crises.

In California's desert, an engineering mishap in 1905 created the Salton Sea, which initially thrived before becoming a toxic hazard. As farming surged, agricultural runoff led to salinization and ecological disasters, prompting mass die-offs of fish and birds. Once a bustling recreation hub, it's now ghost towns and health crises due to pollution and dust exposure. Despite recent restoration efforts, the future remains uncertain, with geothermal and lithium projects sparking debates over development versus environmental health.

Delve into the dark world of conversion therapy, a misguided attempt to change sexual orientation. The hosts unpack its historical origins, from 19th-century practices to infamous figures like Joseph Nicolosi. They reveal how the APA's 1973 decision reshaped this narrative. Survivor stories expose the severe harms inflicted, while scientific consensus debunks effectiveness. Listen for legal measures against this practice and how cultural representations keep the conversation alive. It's both eye-opening and crucial for understanding LGBTQ+ rights.

In 1996, a group of German tourists vanished in Death Valley, sparking a mystery that remained unsolved for years. A ranger's discovery of their abandoned van led to a massive search effort with little to show for it. The hosts delve into the dangers of Death Valley and the tourists’ misguided journey, exploring theories ranging from staged disappearances to foul play. The amateur sleuth Tom Mahood eventually cracked the case, uncovering items and remains that revealed the family's tragic fate. The story intertwines adventure, danger, and a deep dive into human decisions.

Explore the truth behind the term 'peace pipe' and discover the actual ceremonial names used by Native Americans. Learn about the historical and spiritual significance of these pipes across various tribes and their ancient traditions. Delve into the construction of pipes, the sacred materials used, and the deep connection to spirituality and prayer. Discover the continuation of these traditions in contemporary Native cultures, showcasing the enduring legacy of this important aspect of Native American heritage.

Discover the unsettling reality of nuclear waste management and the convoluted methods we employ to store it. Explore what spent fuel looks like and the surprising amount each person contributes. Uncover the controversial past of Yucca Mountain and Finland's innovative solution with its deep geological repository. Delve into recycling spent fuel's potential to power the U.S. for decades while grappling with associated security concerns. Learn about advanced methods to reduce long-term radioactivity, making the future of nuclear waste management a pressing and fascinating issue.

Delve into the fascinating world of extinction, where 99% of all species are believed lost. Learn about the historical resistance to acknowledging extinction and discover the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs. Debate the roles of human expansion versus climate change in megafauna extinctions. Explore alarming modern extinction rates and the bizarre winners like jellyfish in a changing ocean. Finally, ponder the ethics of de-extinction while uncovering inspiring 'Lazarus' species that have made a surprising comeback!