Stuff You Should Know

Two hosts dive into the often-taboo topic of menstruation with humor and insight. They explore its biological and cultural significance, dispelling myths along the way. The fascinating discussion goes beyond humans, highlighting menstruation's role in the animal kingdom. They also tackle menorrhagia and the importance of menstrual health, addressing product evolution and the challenges of period poverty. Cultural attitudes are examined, revealing both stigmas and positive practices, while they even connect menstruation to bears and water safety advice!

In 1996, a groundbreaking announcement claimed a Martian rock found in Antarctica showed signs of ancient microbial life. This discovery ignited a fierce debate between believers and skeptics. Intriguingly, the rock contained features like carbonate grains and magnetic crystals, hinting at past water flow. However, experts urge caution, emphasizing the need for further investigation before jumping to conclusions about extraterrestrial life. The excitement around the find significantly impacted the field of astrobiology and the quest for understanding life beyond Earth.

Explore the fascinating origins of human intelligence and the evolutionary journey from our ape ancestors. Discover the cultural burst during the Upper Paleolithic era that shaped cognitive abilities. Delve into the surprising relationship between brain size and intelligence. Learn about brain plasticity's role in adaptability and creativity. Uncover how bipedalism, cooking, and even psychedelics influenced our cognitive development. Plus, enjoy humorous tales and bonding experiences from hikers on the Appalachian Trail!

Explore the quirky world of the Misery Index, a measure of economic health full of unexpected humor. Discover how personal stories blend with economic commentary as hosts discuss societal discomfort. Delve into the historical context of stagflation and the impact of oil embargoes on the economy. Learn about the complexities of measuring economic distress and the criticisms of the index's accuracy. With laughter, the hosts reflect on their podcasting journey and share amusing confessions about films they've never seen.

Discover the whimsical world of Googie architecture, characterized by vibrant colors and gravity-defying shapes, reflecting mid-20th century optimism. Journey through iconic structures like the Gulf 76 station and Bob's Big Boy, while learning about key figures like John Lautner. The playful legacy of these designs showcases their cultural significance, from Las Vegas landmarks to nostalgic influences. Explore the rise, decline, and modern resurgence of this distinctive style that perfectly encapsulates a fun and futuristic aesthetic.

Discover the bizarre story of Robert Antoszczyk, a devoted yogi who attempted astral projection and never returned. Explore the concept of the 'silver cord' that connects the soul to the body and the potential dangers of these mystical journeys. Dive into cultural myths surrounding astral projection, including accounts of tragic deaths like Robert's. Unravel the mystery behind his sudden demise, initially deemed an overdose, and delve into the eerie experiences faced by some in the astral realm. A journey through the light and dark of spiritual exploration!

Supernovae are the universe's most captivating events, shining brightly for months after they explode. The James Webb Telescope reveals these phenomena through cosmic dust, showcasing their role in creating the heavy elements essential for life. The hosts compare Type 1 and Type 2 supernovae, explaining their distinct mechanisms. There's even a humorous take on mailing challenges alongside cosmic chaos and a nod to Britpop, connecting music culture to astronomical wonders. This blend of science and humor makes for an engaging cosmic journey!

Explore the absurd world where the government mistakenly declares people dead, causing unexpected bureaucracy and chaos. Discover the dark side of Social Security numbers and hear stories about the chilling realities faced by those who battle against wrongful death declarations. Delve into healthcare challenges after accidents, and learn about the struggles to correct inaccuracies in the Social Security Administration's records. With humorous anecdotes and real-life stories, it’s a wild ride through the bureaucratic maze!

Bowling is more than just a game; it's a blend of history, technology, and personal stories. Discover the journey from wooden balls to resin marvels and the intricate science of lane oil that impacts every roll. Listen to anecdotes that showcase bowling's cultural evolution while learning about scoring secrets and essential gear. Celebrate incredible achievements and dive into linguistic quirks that make this sport uniquely charming. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or a curious newcomer, there's something here for everyone!

Catatumbo Lightning is a mesmerizing weather phenomenon that dazzles with 28 strikes per minute for nine hours a day, nearly 300 days a year. The podcast dives into its breathtaking frequency and historical significance, examined by scientists as well as indigenous beliefs. Unique geographical and atmospheric conditions near Lake Maracaibo create this dazzling spectacle, regarded as the world's top lightning hotspot. Discover how its beauty also plays a crucial role in maritime navigation and enriches local cultural heritage.