Stuff You Should Know

Delve into the colorful life of Chuck Barris, a television pioneer whose shows like 'The Gong Show' broke the mold. Explore shocking claims of him being a CIA assassin while redefining game shows with personal storytelling. Discover the cultural impact of 'The Dating Game,' including its dark connections. Examine the evolution of entertainment’s attitude toward misogyny, and how Barris's unconventional career shaped modern television. Reflect on the influences that defined a unique era in TV history.

Quinoa, an ancient pseudo-cereal, has gained massive popularity as a trendy superfood. Discover its ease of cooking compared to rice and its rich culinary potential. Journey through its historical roots in the Andes and the nutritional benefits that make it a must-try. Explore the cultural impact on Bolivian farmers as quinoa's global appeal grows, creating both opportunities and challenges. Enjoy humorous anecdotes and listener stories that connect this quirky grain to personal heritage!

Discover the dazzling wonders of Saturn, from its iconic rings to its colossal size. Explore the mysterious atmospheric conditions and massive storms that define this gas giant. Delve into the fascinating formation theories of its rings and the gravitational influence of its moons, particularly the intriguing Titan. Unravel the captivating tales of past astronomical observations and enjoy whimsical comparisons to popular culture. Get ready to be amazed by the beauty and complexity of this stunning planet!

Explore the rich history of Watch Night, a New Year's Eve tradition with deep roots in African-American Methodism. Discover its evolution from a solemn covenant renewal service to a powerful observance celebrating freedom and the Emancipation Proclamation. Learn about the emotional bonds formed during this night, where communities gathered in prayer and hope. Delve into the culinary traditions that accompany these gatherings and the variations in celebrations across different congregations, including festive anecdotes from iconic locations like Times Square.

Explore the iconic world of Studio 54, a nightclub that shaped 1970s culture with its vibrant excess and unique allure. Discover the exhilarating opening night and the whirlwind of exclusivity, where even a horse made a memorable entrance. Learn about the notorious history that embraced marginalized communities while facing critiques of superficiality. With witty anecdotes and reflections, the podcast paints a vivid picture of a scene filled with flamboyant personalities and the magic of nightlife that defined an era.

Dive into a haunting psychological experiment where three men, each believing they are Christ, reveal deep insights about identity and delusion. Explore the ethical dilemmas faced by researchers and the individual struggles of the participants. Delve into the implications of belief in shaping personality while contrasting this unsettling study with lighter topics like gourmet chocolate chip cookies and unique compulsions. The conversation critiques both the film adaptations of these lives and the moral responsibilities of mental health research.

Dive into the intriguing world of forensic dentistry where dental records become key in identifying remains. Discover the contentious and often debated validity of bite mark analysis, a practice that has led to wrongful convictions. Learn how dental evidence can shed light on historical pandemics like the Black Death. Explore the resilience of teeth in forensic investigations and the significant role of mitochondrial DNA in ancient remains. This captivating discussion merges science with gripping real-life cases.

Dive into the heartwarming yet tragic tradition of Captain Santa, who brought Christmas trees to Chicago’s needy. Discover the festive legacy linked to German customs and the bittersweet tale of the Rouse Simmons, a schooner that met its fate in a storm. Explore the darker maritime history while enjoying humorous insights from the hosts. Listen in as the story intertwines holiday joy with themes of loss and remembrance, highlighting both Captain Santa's charitable spirit and the somber reality of his final voyage.

Celebrate the joys of the holiday season with festive traditions and delightful treats. Enjoy a humorous take on crafting 'Grandma's Christmas Breath' cocktail and dive into the fun of Dirty Santa. Discover the cultural significance of pizzelle cookies and classic Yule logs. Laugh along with stories of presidential Christmas trees and the evolution of holiday cinema, including the nostalgic charm of 'Ziggy's Gift.' Pour a hot toddy and embrace the festive spirit!

Discover the hidden legacy of Frances Perkins, a pioneer in American social policy. Learn how she championed unemployment insurance and the Fair Labor Standards Act while serving as the first female Secretary of Labor. Delve into the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Fire, which spurred vital labor reforms. Explore her relentless fight for social justice and her influence on modern social safety nets. This insightful discussion highlights why her contributions should be celebrated and remembered.