Stuff You Should Know

Discover the surreal saga of Bredo Morstel, a man preserved in ice after his death in a small Colorado town. Follow his grandson Trigvi’s heartfelt yet quirky quest for immortality through cryonics, as family dedication meets legal hurdles. Laugh along with the town's quirky celebration, the Frozen Dead Guy Days, and explore the bizarre legacy that transformed this odd tale into a unique festival, honoring both eccentricity and family love. It's a captivating blend of humor and unusual preservation methods!

Discover the fascinating world of dry cleaning! Learn about its unique history, unconventional methods, and the surprising impact of the pandemic on consumer behavior. Delve into the toxic secrets of chemicals like PERC, uncovering health risks and environmental concerns. Get handy stain removal tips and hear about alternative cleaning methods that are changing the industry. Finally, explore the intricate processes of garment pressing and the importance of nurturing your clothes for longevity.

Dive into the intriguing world of history's greatest traitors, starting with Benedict Arnold and his controversial legacy during the American Revolution. Discover Jesus' betrayal through Judas Iscariot's infamous kiss and the alternative views presented in the 'Gospel of Judas.' Explore the lives of Jesse James and Mata Hari, whose legacies blur the lines between admiration and treachery. The complex story of Tokyo Rose raises questions about loyalty during wartime, challenging perceptions of what it means to betray.

Discover the intricate design and functionality of cranes, which play a vital role in construction. Learn about the impressive tower cranes and the engineering principles that allow them to lift immense loads. Enjoy playful anecdotes while diving into the mechanics of climbing cranes and the fascinating climbing techniques used by operators at dizzying heights. The discussion also emphasizes critical safety measures in crane operation, along with eye-opening historical facts and the financial realities for crane operators.

What really goes into the New York Times bestseller list? The hosts delve into the mystery behind its compilation and discuss the questionable integrity of the methods used. They share anecdotes about attempts to manipulate rankings, both ethically and unethically. Explore how certain authors exploit bulk purchases to game the system, raising concerns about fairness in the industry. This intriguing exploration highlights the high stakes and secrets that surround this coveted list.

Discover the thrilling adventures of Kenton Grua, a legendary river guide, as he recalls his record-breaking speed run through the Grand Canyon. The discussion dives into the art of dory boating and contrasts it with modern rafting, raising worries about the commercialization of these wild experiences. Listeners are taken on a journey through Grua's epic challenges and the evolving landscape of the Colorado River. Tales of unauthorized nighttime rafting adventures add a dash of danger and excitement to this captivating exploration of spirit and resilience.

Dive into the colorful yet complex world of Dr. Seuss, revealing the man behind the iconic books. Explore the humor in his struggle with identity and the duality of his legacy, from whimsical children's tales to troubling past controversies. Discover how his experiences during World War II shaped his creative output and called attention to societal issues. Engage with discussions on the intricate balance of his artistic genius and the evolving conversation around racism in his early works. Reflect on how his personal struggles and growth influenced his timeless stories.

The tumultuous 2000 Presidential Election takes center stage, revealing how a race many thought would be close ended in a dizzying void of uncertainty. The chaos of Florida's voting process, complete with the infamous punch card systems, led to wild controversies and peculiar ballot issues. The recount saga, punctuated by the butterfly ballot fiasco and intense political protests, illustrates a pivotal moment in U.S. democracy. Legal battles and Supreme Court decisions continue to shape discussions about electoral reforms today.

Discover the intriguing history behind blueprints and why they’re blue. Learn about the serendipitous creation of Prussian blue and its significance in both fashion and architecture. Explore the cyanotype process, a groundbreaking photographic technique that shaped early photography. Delve into how printing technology evolved from traditional methods to modern solutions. Plus, enjoy playful anecdotes surrounding the collaboration between an alchemist and a dye maker that led to this vibrant color!

Dive into the peculiar world of the Biosphere II experiment, where eight brave souls attempted to live in a sealed ecosystem. Discover the quirky dynamics of these 'Biospherians' and the hilarious struggles they faced with farming and sustenance. Learn about the project’s ambitious goals, unexpected challenges like dwindling oxygen levels, and the whimsical stories that add charm to their scientific endeavor. With humor and insight, explore how this flawed but fascinating experiment shaped discussions on environmental sustainability.