

Stuff You Should Know
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If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Episodes
Mentioned books

22 snips
Mar 9, 2024 • 51min
Selects: The Science of Break-Ups
Breaking up feels like getting over an addiction! This discussion dives into the emotional chaos that accompanies relationship endings. Analyze how societal trends shape breakups, and discover the unique experiences of initiators versus those left behind. Lighthearted banter reveals communication style differences between genders. Explore the psychological impact of breakups on identity and mental health, while uncovering coping strategies for recovery. Get ready for trivia and laughter mixed with insights into navigating post-relationship friendships!

Mar 7, 2024 • 41min
The Smiley, Stubborn Llama
Discover the quirky charm of llamas, from their joyful smiles to their stubborn antics. Hear about their impressive agility and historical role as pack animals for the Incas. Dive into their unique social behaviors and biological traits, along with the fascinating potential of llama antibodies in medical research. Enjoy a delightful blend of nostalgic stories, humorous anecdotes, and even a bit on their cultural significance in children's literature. Plus, a round-up of memorable moments and upcoming tours adds extra fun!

Mar 6, 2024 • 11min
Short Stuff: Roly Poly...Bugs?
Discover the quirky world of roly poly bugs, tiny crustaceans often mistaken for insects! Learn about their surprising adaptations, like breathing with gills and their unique defense mechanism of curling up. These garden champions contribute to composting and boast a remarkable ability to thrive in polluted environments. With a dash of humor, the hosts also link these little critters to heavy metal music, proving that even the smallest creatures can rock our gardens!

117 snips
Mar 5, 2024 • 46min
Multitasking: Working slower with worse results
Multitasking is a myth that hinders productivity, slowing you down and reducing the quality of your work. The brain's limitations in handling multiple tasks are revealed, debunking common misconceptions. It's shown that focusing on one task at a time enhances cognitive function and improves outcomes. Gender differences in multitasking skills are discussed, alongside the rise of technology-induced distractions. Also highlighted are the joys of reading and personal stories that foster nostalgia and connection.

4 snips
Mar 2, 2024 • 56min
Selects: The Case of Sacco and Vanzetti
Explore the gripping tale of Sacco and Vanzetti, two anarchists caught in a monumental trial soaked in social and political upheaval. Discover the eerie disappearance of crucial evidence and the chaos surrounding their wrongful conviction in the 1920s. Delve into the biases against Italian immigrants and the manipulation of testimonies that marred the legal proceedings. Their emotional final moments and the resulting international outrage serve as a poignant reminder of the flaws in the justice system, echoing debates about guilt and innocence.

10 snips
Feb 29, 2024 • 47min
Wireless Electricity: When Can We Unplug Our TVs?
Imagine a world where electricity flows through the air, freeing us from pesky cords! The hosts dive into the evolution of wireless electricity, from Tesla's dreams to modern-day advancements. They discuss the potential of wireless charging for electric vehicles and even envision highways lined with charging lanes. With new technologies like MagSafe and DARPA's energy relay, the future looks bright for seamless energy transfer. This revolutionary shift could transform smart devices and reduce our dependence on batteries, making life more convenient.

7 snips
Feb 28, 2024 • 15min
Short Stuff: Smudging: Not just for hippies
Discover the ancient practice of smudging and its cultural roots in indigenous North American traditions. Explore the potential mood-boosting and stress-relieving benefits of sage burning. Delve into the ethical considerations and the importance of sustainable practices as you learn about the ritual's proper execution. Uncover the impact of smudging in modern health contexts, emphasizing respect for indigenous traditions. This enlightening discussion demystifies smudging and sheds light on its significance.

Feb 27, 2024 • 57min
Haile Selassie: Statesman, Colonizer, God?
Discover the fascinating dual legacy of Haile Selassie, from his modernization efforts in Ethiopia to his controversial rulership. Explore how he became a global symbol of resistance during the Italian invasion and the complex narratives around his leadership. Uncover the cultural significance of Selassie in reggae music and the Rastafarian movement, juxtaposed with the challenges he faced in governance and ethnic tensions. Delve into Ethiopia's rich historical legacy intertwined with the rise of an iconic leader.

41 snips
Feb 24, 2024 • 52min
Selects: How Zero Population Growth Works
The conversation kicks off with a dive into zero population growth and its implications for sustainability. Historical figures like Malthus are referenced as the debate over population dynamics continues. Innovations in agriculture are spotlighted as solutions to food scarcity. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of contraception and women's rights in controlling population growth. Insights from the Universe 25 experiment challenge perceptions of overpopulation, showcasing social dysfunction as numbers swell. It's a thought-provoking look at humanity's impact on the planet.

5 snips
Feb 22, 2024 • 41min
The Story of the Nuclear Boy Scout
Dive into the wild tale of David Hahn, the 'Nuclear Boy Scout,' who ingeniously constructed a nuclear reactor in his mother's shed. Witness the blend of youthful curiosity and reckless ambition as he navigates absurd situations with unsuspecting adults and unravels the chaos surrounding his dangerous experiments. From crafting a neutron gun to ominously dismantling his reactor, this story highlights the thrill of scientific exploration while serving as a cautionary reminder of the perils that come with it.


