Something You Should Know

Ace Collins, an author and expert on Christmas traditions, shares the charming backstory of the NORAD Santa Tracker, which started from a 1955 typo. He covers the Viking origins of kissing under mistletoe and how the family Christmas tradition evolved in the Victorian era. Listeners will learn how Dickens' A Christmas Carol sparked a spirit of charity, the introduction of the poinsettia to America, and how Jingle Bells transformed from a Thanksgiving song into a Christmas classic. Plus, Ace shares tips for keeping your real Christmas tree fresh!

Chris Dallariva, a musician and author, shares insights on how technology has revolutionized hit song creation and promotion. He discusses cultural trends and luck's role in making songs successful, and explains the phenomenon of one-hit wonders. Meanwhile, Eddie Woo, an engaging mathematics teacher, reveals the math behind rainbows, sunflower seed patterns, and even randomness in nature. His intriguing explanations show how fundamental math concepts influence the world around us. This blend of music and math offers a fresh perspective on creativity.

Colleen Murphy, a professor at Princeton specializing in aging research, discusses groundbreaking findings on extending healthy lifespan, including intriguing experiments with worms that reveal aging pathways. Michael Gervais, a high-performance psychologist, explores the universal fear of judgment, explaining its evolutionary roots and how it holds many back from pursuing opportunities. They both provide practical strategies for overcoming these fears and enhancing life quality, emphasizing purpose-driven actions and mindfulness.

Steve Ramirez, a neuroscientist at Boston University, reveals fascinating insights into memory manipulation, explaining how our recollections can be intentionally altered to enhance mental health. He discusses how memories are reconstructed over time and the implications for those with dementia. Randi Minetor, a nature writer, dives into the increase of wildlife encounters in neighborhoods, highlighting how human expansion into animal habitats and food sources make animals bolder. She offers practical tips for safely coexisting with wildlife.

Annie Zaleski, a pop culture expert and author of "This Is Christmas, Song by Song," dives into the intriguing backstories behind beloved holiday songs and odd Christmas decorations. Discover how classic tunes like "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" almost ended up discarded, and learn about the wartime origins of "I'll Be Home for Christmas." Annie also reveals how Brenda Lee recorded "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" at just 13, and breaks down the surprising myth of The Twelve Days of Christmas.

Niro Feliciano, a psychotherapist and author known for her holiday guidance, shares insights on reducing holiday stress by prioritizing connection over perfection. She discusses how to honor both joy and grief during the season, encouraging intentional pauses and presence. David Stipp, a former journalist and science author, explores curious animal behaviors rooted in evolution, including why rats laugh and how children's taste preferences for bitter vegetables evolved as a survival mechanism. Together, they reveal fascinating links between evolution and everyday experiences.

David Brooks, a New York Times columnist and author, discusses the art of truly knowing people and highlights the importance of skills like active listening and meaningful conversation. He reveals how societal changes have led to increased loneliness and disconnection while emphasizing simple acts of warmth that enhance connections. Jen Golbeck, an expert in the human-canine bond, explains how dogs provide unique social support and improve our mental health. She also shares insights on choosing the right dog and the emotional impact of pet loss.

Jonah Berger, a Wharton marketing professor and author of "Magic Words," dives into how minor changes in language can greatly influence people's responses. He reveals the impact of framing requests and adopting concrete language to enhance satisfaction. Tamin Haddad Garcia, co-author of "Healthy No Matter What," challenges traditional notions of health, emphasizing adaptation over mere absence of disease. Both guests share practical insights on how our perceptions and communications can significantly shape our well-being and relationships.

Join film historian Jeremy Arnold, known for his expertise with Turner Classic Movies and author of *Christmas in the Movies*, as he unwraps delightful secrets behind classic holiday films. Discover the quirky origins of eggnog and its ties to Christmas. Jeremy passionately defends *Die Hard* as a holiday film while sharing insights on *It's a Wonderful Life*, *Home Alone*, and underrated gems like *Remember the Night*. He also discusses the allergy risks of real Christmas trees and how to enjoy the season’s traditions safely.

Trent Preszler, a professor and author, explores the rich history of Christmas trees, revealing their origins in ancient solstice traditions and the nuances of tree selection for Rockefeller Center. He discusses cultivation techniques and the differences between real and artificial trees. Meanwhile, food writer Adam Reiner tackles the changing dynamics of dining out, sharing insights on rising costs, evolving customer expectations, and tips for enhancing your restaurant experience in today’s post-pandemic landscape.