Something You Should Know

Ben Schott, an author known for his work on secret languages, reveals how families and professions create their own unique codes and slangs, enhancing social bonds and efficiency. He shares intriguing examples from diamond dealers to Starbucks baristas. Meanwhile, Tristan Gooley, an expert on natural navigation, uncovers hidden seasonal clues, explaining how subtle changes in nature signal shifts in the environment, from leaf colors to the behavior of insects. Together, they illuminate the richness of both human communication and the natural world.

Peter Mancall, a history and anthropology professor at the University of Southern California, unveils the true story of Thanksgiving. Discover how a turkey surplus mistake launched the frozen meal industry. Mancall clarifies the myths around the 1621 feast, detailing the real interactions between Pilgrims and Wampanoags. He explains why Thanksgiving became a national holiday and how modern traditions are changing, with many opting for alternatives to turkey. Get ready to rethink your holiday menu and the history behind it!

In this engaging discussion, Adam Taor, author of Bodypedia, reveals quirky human anatomy facts like why goosebumps persist and how humans excel at throwing. He explores the left-side facial bias and its emotional implications. Meanwhile, neuroscientist Ben Rein, author of Why Brains Need Friends, emphasizes the crucial role of social connections for health and longevity. He explains how isolation triggers stress and how even casual interactions can boost well-being. Pets, it turns out, are social support heroes, enriching our mental health.

Join Dr. Christopher Labos, a cardiologist and science communicator, as he debunks popular food myths, revealing what’s true about coffee, red meat, and eggs. He emphasizes that many food beliefs are driven by marketing rather than science. Roma Agrawal, a structural engineer, discusses how humble inventions like nails, strings, and magnets have profoundly shaped civilization. From historical nail usage to the evolution of communication via magnets, their insights showcase the significance of these everyday items in our lives.

Jay Foreman, co-host of MapMen and author of This Way Up, dives into the quirky world of maps, revealing why early maps weren’t for navigation and how inaccuracies affect perceptions. He shares tales of big map industry rivalries and the curious omittance of New Zealand in modern maps. Ranjay Gulati, Harvard professor and author of How to Be Bold, discusses the psychology of everyday courage, exploring how fear and narratives shape our actions. He offers strategies for fostering genuine bravery, contrasting it with recklessness.

Jimmy Wales, founder of Wikipedia, discusses how the platform thrives on transparency and community trust, revealing that its success is rooted in collaboration rather than chaos. He contrasts Wikipedia's success with social media's toxicity, emphasizing moderation's role in sustaining trust. Ruth DeFoster, a journalism professor, explores the origins of fear, explaining that most fears are learned and amplified by media. She highlights how our perceptions can misplace fears, suggesting that understanding these mechanisms can help us manage them better.

Jennifer Wallace, an acclaimed journalist and author of "Never Enough," discusses the toxic culture of achievement that ties self-worth to success, leading to burnout and anxiety. She highlights the importance of redefining success and fostering healthy ambition. Meanwhile, Helen Czerski, a physicist and oceanographer from University College London, unveils the mysteries of the ocean, explaining its interconnected systems and crucial role in Earth's climate. Together, they explore how these seemingly different topics intertwine in shaping our lives.

Judd Kessler, a Wharton School professor and author of "Lucky by Design", reveals how to navigate hidden markets for opportunities in crowded spaces, like snagging concert tickets or securing restaurant reservations. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg, author of "Supercommunicators", shares insights into becoming a better conversationalist through techniques like deep questions and understanding conversation dynamics. Together, they explore how strategic communication and clever timing can tip the odds in your favor in both life and conversations.

Eric O'Neill, a former FBI operative and cybersecurity expert, dives into the cunning world of modern scams, highlighting how even the smartest can fall victim to deception. He shares insights on social engineering tactics and the growing threat of ransomware. Meanwhile, Dr. Daniel K. Sodickson, a physicist in medicine, explores the fascinating history and advancements in medical imaging, from the invention of X-rays to the brilliance of MRI technology. Together, they reveal how these innovations have transformed diagnosis and treatment in healthcare.

Cultural historian Samuel Franklin critiques the modern obsession with creativity, suggesting it's overhyped and often distracts from actually getting work done. He traces the rise of this 'cult of creativity' back to post-WWII influences. Meanwhile, science writer Nina Nesseth explores the allure of horror films, explaining how they ignite our brains and evoke pleasure from fear through stimulation transfer theory. She highlights how horror not only reflects societal fears but also helps audiences process intense emotions.