Stuff You Should Know

Discover the adorable quirks of the Shar Pei, a dog celebrated for its distinctive skin folds. Learn about its fascinating origins in China and the unique traits that make this breed so special. Delve into the health implications tied to their peculiar appearance, including skin and eye concerns. Discover the loyal and social nature of these dogs, along with the challenges they face due to selective breeding. Engage with intriguing comparisons to similar breeds while uncovering the passionate community of Shar Pei enthusiasts.

A geological mystery unfolds around coal, primarily formed in a mere 60 million years. Listeners learn about the intriguing transformation from ancient peat to this vital energy source, humorously contrasted with society's heavy consumption during the Industrial Revolution. The podcast highlights the significant role fungi played in coal formation and explores the impact of tectonic activity on coal deposits. With a blend of science and wit, serious themes of climate change and environmental challenges are discussed alongside light-hearted anecdotes.

Dive into the life of legendary comedian Rodney Dangerfield, known for his unique blend of comedy and personal pain. Discover how he built his entire act around his struggles, achieving fame in his late 40s. The discussion captures his emotional depth, iconic one-liners, and the importance of his dapper style. Enjoy lively anecdotes from a live recording at the LA Podcast Festival, along with reflections on his enduring legacy and impact on comedy. Humor, heart, and a touch of audience interaction make for a memorable tribute.

Uncover the hidden world of Broadway understudies, who juggle extensive training while ready to step into lead roles at a moment’s notice. Discover the logistics behind managing performances and hear heartwarming anecdotes that highlight their dedication. Dive into the challenges of compensation and recognition within the industry, and learn how these unsung heroes navigate the demanding spotlight. With humor and personal stories woven throughout, the discussion sheds light on a career path often overshadowed by lead actors.

Have you ever wondered if your home smells? The conversation dives into how we become desensitized to our own odors and tackles common worries about unpleasant scents, especially from pets. Practical tips are shared for freshening up living spaces, like cleaning hacks and natural fragrance solutions. The journey of odors through HVAC systems is examined, along with the fascinating marketing story behind Febreze. Expect insights into the science of scent and ethical considerations in home fragrances!

Dive into the intriguing world of postmodernism, where definitions are slippery and often misunderstood. Discover how this movement reshaped art and culture, highlighting figures like Duchamp and Warhol. Explore the impact of social media on love and relationships, sprinkled with insights on AI in creativity. From modernist roots to postmodern storytelling in literature and film, witness the evolution of narrative forms through the lenses of Tarantino and Anderson. Reflect on cinematic classics and cultural shifts that challenge conventions and provoke thought.

Explore the chilling mystery of a well-dressed corpse found on an Australian beach in 1948. Delve into the man’s puzzling identity and the strange items he left behind, including a coded message that has stumped experts for decades. Personal anecdotes about solar eclipses add a humorous touch, while discussions on unique physical traits reveal possible connections to his origins. Follow the thread of intrigue as amateur sleuths attempt to solve a case intertwined with themes of identity and espionage.

Bottled water has skyrocketed in popularity, morphing from a luxury into an environmental concern. The discussion hilariously unpacks marketing tactics while revealing the shocking consequences of single-use plastics. Insights into the regulatory maze surrounding bottled water raise health questions, especially about fluoride and plastic leaching. With recycling rates lagging, the need for sustainable choices becomes undeniable. Personal anecdotes and listener recommendations add a touch of humor and inspiration to rethink our water habits.

This delightful discussion pays tribute to the grilled cheese sandwich, a beloved comfort food. The hosts share tips for the perfect melt, revealing mayo as a crispy alternative to butter. They dive into its fascinating history, dating back to ancient Rome, and explore how it has evolved over time. Listeners will enjoy diverse recipes and unique ingredient combinations that elevate this classic dish. Humorous anecdotes and culinary experiments round out the exploration, making it a cheesy celebration of an iconic culinary staple.

The heart-wrenching story of a mother's fight for truth when her son goes missing in 1928 Los Angeles is explored. The discussion reveals the shocking incompetence of the LAPD and the emotional toll on Christine Collins as she faces skepticism. Themes of gaslighting, maternal instinct, and systemic failures come to light. The narrative also examines the complexities surrounding the case's adaptation in film, along with a dive into true crime reflections and the chilling backdrop of the Wineville Chicken Coop murders.