Stuff You Should Know

Discover the charm of automats, those nostalgic self-service restaurants that once thrived in New York. Learn about their fascinating history and the comfort they provided to busy urban dwellers. Dive into the cultural significance they held for immigrants and their role in promoting inclusivity. Reflect on how changing dining preferences led to their decline and the rise of fast food. Along the way, enjoy anecdotes that illustrate the unique experience of pulling a meal from a glass case!

Dive into the fascinating history of bread, with a spotlight on the revolutionary invention of sliced bread! Discover how this modern convenience emerged less than 100 years ago, transforming meal prep and giving birth to the sandwich. Explore Otto Frederick Rohwetter's inspiring journey from jeweler to culinary innovator. Uncover the cultural shifts brought on by this simple slice, including its surprising impact during World War II and how it changed baking forever.

Explore the vibrant history of High Times Magazine, a beacon of cannabis culture. Discover its evolution from an underground publication to a mainstream symbol of legalization. Delve into the magazine's humorous tone and its role in American pop culture. Hear about the cultural revolution it sparked, notably through hip-hop's influence in the 90s. Learn about the challenges it faced in leadership and finance, all while recounting memorable anecdotes from its early days and advocacy for cannabis rights.

Explore the fascinating reality of Foreign Accent Syndrome, a rare condition where individuals wake up speaking with a different accent after brain trauma. Delve into the cultural and emotional challenges faced by those affected, along with humorous anecdotes and notable historical cases. The discussion highlights the complex relationship between language, identity, and the psychological factors at play. Discover intriguing insights about diagnosis and the distinction between neurogenic and psychogenic forms of this unique phenomenon.

Every spring, around 40 brave souls face the brutal challenges of the Barkley Marathons in Tennessee, a race famous for its nearly impossible completion rate. The conversation dives into the quirky origins of this ultra-marathon, tracing its roots to local history and endurance feats. Participants share their mental and physical strategies, detailing navigation nightmares and the emotional weight of quitting. Listeners also hear about historic milestones, like the first female finisher, and the tight-knit community that emerges from shared struggles.

Discover the intriguing evolution of the term 'bourgeoisie' and its shifting meanings across different cultures and time periods. From its neutral roots to a term of disdain in Marxist contexts, this discussion highlights how language reflects societal attitudes. Explore the playful transformation of 'bourgeois' into a critique of pretentious behavior, complete with a nod to the disco hit 'Bougie Bougie.' The podcast also dives into the distinctions between 'new money' and 'old money,' revealing how wealth influences social dynamics today.

Dive into the daring exploits of Operation Gunnerside, a pivotal WWII mission that aimed to sabotage Nazi Germany's nuclear ambitions. Explore the courage of Norwegian resistance fighters as they navigate treacherous terrains to infiltrate a heavy water plant. Learn about the moral complexities they faced and the lasting impact of their actions on the war's outcome. Amidst the tension, there's humor and camaraderie, highlighting the spirit of defiance against oppression during an extraordinary period in history.

The discussion kicks off with a lighthearted look at language and promotes a family movie. It then dives into the rich history of mindfulness, tracing its roots in Buddhism and its journey into modern culture. The hosts explore its benefits and potential pitfalls in today's corporate world while sharing humorous anecdotes. Key elements like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction are discussed, emphasizing its practicality in stress management. The conversation wraps up with heartfelt reflections on personal connections and the transformative power of shared experiences.

Dive into the enigmatic tale of Larry Bader, who vanished in 1957 only to resurface days later under a new identity. Was it a brain injury or a clever scam? The narrative reveals his quirky past, including a talent for devouring whole chickens and his struggles as a charming but debt-laden salesman. Explore the psychological perspectives on his mysterious disappearance, the colorful character of Fritz Johnson, and the emotional fallout for his family. It’s a captivating blend of mystery, humor, and human complexity!

Discover the gripping tale of the Mad Trapper of Rat River, a notorious figure from Canadian history. Delve into the thrilling seven-week manhunt in the Arctic wilderness, where law enforcement faced fierce conditions and tragic consequences. Explore the mysterious life of Albert Johnson and his elusive identity, enhanced by recent DNA testing hints. The story captures public fascination, highlighting the unique roles of WW1 pilot Wilfred Wap May and First Nation trackers in this captivating saga.