

Stuff To Blow Your Mind
iHeartPodcasts
Deep in the back of your mind, you’ve always had the feeling that there’s something strange about reality. There is. Join Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick as they examine neurological quandaries, cosmic mysteries, evolutionary marvels and our transhuman future.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 19, 2025 • 1h 32min
Weirdhouse Cinema: The Boxer's Omen
Dive into the surreal world of black sorcery and Buddhist magic through the lens of a legendary Shaw Brothers film. Explore the unique blend of kickboxing and supernatural elements as characters face grotesque rituals and intense body-horror effects. The film's vivid portrayal of spiritual conflict and the dynamic between ordered Buddhism and chaotic black magic makes for an intriguing midnight movie experience. With insights on the filmmakers and actors, this cinematic journey unravels a tale of revenge, transformation, and the quest for ultimate power.

Sep 18, 2025 • 53min
Jaws of the Giant Clam
Dive into the mysteries of the giant clam, exploring its unique biology and striking appearance. Discover the evolution of myths surrounding these creatures, from ancient legends to modern media portrayals that painted them as man-eaters. Investigate infamous stories of attacks, including a deep dive into urban legends and the real consensus from marine biologists that debunk these frightening claims. It's a fascinating look at how fiction often overshadows reality in the natural world.

Sep 17, 2025 • 28min
Smart Talks with IBM: Ferrari Fandom, Supercharged by AI
Fred Baker leads sports and entertainment for IBM Consulting across EMEA and is at the forefront of transforming fan engagement. He discusses how IBM and Scuderia Ferrari are utilizing AI to enhance the experiences of nearly 400 million fans. The conversation covers the evolution of fandom from the 1970s to today, highlighting technology’s role in fostering connections. Baker also dives into how IBM’s innovations have redefined engagement strategies and created an interactive community for Ferrari enthusiasts, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology.

Sep 16, 2025 • 53min
Listener Mail: Round Perdition's Flames
Dive into a lively discussion sparked by intriguing listener questions about myths and science. The hosts explore personal perspectives and humorously engage with feedback, promoting community involvement. They reflect on Star Trek's impact, examining cultural significance and identity debates. Uncover the evolution of sainthood in storytelling and celebrate cinematic creativity with fresh takes on classic films, including a vampire legend. The episode wraps up with heartfelt discussions on kindness and upcoming themes in supernatural horror.

Sep 15, 2025 • 1h 29min
Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Labyrinth
Dive into the whimsical world of Jim Henson's 1986 classic, where surreal characters and enchanting music intertwine. Explore the emotional depth of the protagonist's journey, from navigating a labyrinth to confronting personal identity. Reflect on the nostalgic impact of David Bowie's performance and the film's innovative storytelling. Discover how its initial reception contrasts with its lasting cultural significance, as fans continue to cherish this beloved fantasy. Engage with themes of temptation, friendship, and self-discovery in a magical narrative.

Sep 13, 2025 • 45min
From the Vault: Odds and Evens, Part 2
Dive into the fascinating world of odd and even numbers and their impact on psychology and decision-making. Explore ancient ore-powered galleys linked to Ptolemy IV, comparable to aircraft carriers. Discover the evolution of maritime technology in the Mediterranean shaping trade and military strategies. Delve into the design and tactics of ancient triremes and how naval warfare evolved, including the strategic use of ramming. This episode celebrates collaboration and creativity, connecting the past to modern insights.

Sep 12, 2025 • 1h 34min
Weirdhouse Cinema: The Wrath of Khan
Dive into the galaxy with a captivating discussion on the iconic 'Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan.' The hosts break down the film's cultural significance, strong character dynamics, and thematic depth, celebrating its impact on the franchise. Explore the duality of Khan as both tyrant and leader, along with the emotional sacrifices faced by the crew. Enjoy insights into its aesthetic evolution, musical score, and the philosophical implications of the Kobayashi Maru simulation, all while reflecting on the film's enduring legacy in sci-fi.

Sep 11, 2025 • 1h 6min
Transporters and Consciousness in Star Trek
Dive into the philosophical dilemmas of teleportation in the Star Trek universe, where identity and consciousness collide. Explore mind-bending questions about self-continuity during teleportation and the ethical implications of this technology. The discussion reveals how teleportation affects personal identity and raises existential queries about the nature of the self. From thought experiments like the Swamp Man to the psychological ramifications of transporter malfunctions, each topic challenges our understanding of existence in a captivating way.

Sep 10, 2025 • 4min
The Monstrefact: The Mugatos of Star Trek
Dive into the fascinating world of the Neuralian Mugato from Star Trek! Learn about its fierce characteristics and the real-world animals that may have inspired this mythical creature. The conversation highlights how evolutionary adaptations and environmental factors shape such unique traits. Discover the intersection of fantasy and biology in this enthralling exploration!

Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Salt Vampires of Star Trek
Dive into the chilling lore of the salt vampires from Star Trek, exploring their metaphorical connections to human fears and desires. Discover the horror elements in the franchise's debut episode and the complex relationships that emerge aboard the Enterprise. Delve into the fascinating biology of salt-seeking moths and the evolution of vampire moths, drawing intriguing parallels to the narrative of these iconic salt vampires. This blend of science fiction and real-world oddities captivates with themes of survival, grief, and the uncanny nature of alien encounters.