Stuff To Blow Your Mind

Daniel Whiteson, a particle physicist and co-author of 'We Have No Idea,' discusses his upcoming book 'Do Aliens Speak Physics.' He delves into how advanced extraterrestrial civilizations might understand physics and communicate scientific concepts. The conversation explores the nuances of intelligence, pondering whether our desire to question is unique to humans. Whiteson also shares entertaining travel stories, while unpacking the complexities of decoding potential alien languages and the philosophical implications of varied truths in understanding reality.

Discover the fascinating blend of mythology and horror in a cult classic featuring Hercules. The film's vibrant visuals and Christopher Lee's compelling performance add to its charm. Dive into the quirky narrative, analyzing character dynamics between Hercules and Theseus. Explore the film's artistic style and the evolution of the peplum genre, all while pondering the darker themes of heroism and myth. Alongside humorous escapades and quests, this cinematic gem invites you to reflect on the legacy of ancient heroes in modern storytelling.

Explore the intriguing world of ninjas, where history meets myth in fascinating ways. Discover the roles of female shinobi and their impact on espionage, while also diving into the practicality of ninja weaponry. Unravel the secrets of endurance and stealth through ancient practices, and learn about the legendary Mizugumo—did ninjas really walk on water? This captivating discussion invites listeners to rethink their perceptions of these elusive figures and their lasting legacy in popular culture.

Dive into the enchanting world of 'Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger,' where stop-motion magic brought to life fantastical creatures! Discover the film's themes of adventure and mythology, highlighted by Ray Harryhausen's pioneering animation. Experience hilarity with comedic characters like Dione and Melanthias, while dramatic confrontations with sinister foes unfold. The charm of the 1977 classic leads to discussions on its cultural impact and the unique interplay between live action and animation, making for a thrilling cinematic journey!

Anney Reese and Lauren Vogelbaum, co-hosts of the food podcast Savor, join Joe McCormick to dig into the wacky world of food storage. They discuss the bizarre consequences of improper storage, like baked pasta puncturing foil and the alarming cases of tempura storage leading to spontaneous combustion. The duo also explores the science behind exploding watermelons and fermentation, revealing both the chaos of kitchen mishaps and crucial safety tips. History comes alive with tales from the Great Molasses Flood, highlighting the serious side of food preservation.

Dive into the intriguing werewolf persona of Ozzy Osbourne, born from his iconic 1983 hit, 'Bark at the Moon.' Discover the fusion of creativity and special effects that brought the theme to life. Explore the compelling duality of man versus beast, reflecting Osbourne’s larger-than-life persona in the rock world. His legacy continues to captivate fans, blending music with a thrilling touch of horror.

Join Anney Reese and Lauren Vogelbaum, co-hosts of the Savor podcast, as they dive into the quirky science behind food storage. They share wild anecdotes about leftovers and explore the surprising interactions of aluminum foil with various foods. From galvanic corrosion affecting both kitchens and the Statue of Liberty to how oral galvanism alters taste experiences, the conversation blends humor with intriguing science. Discover cookware chemistry and the peculiar reactions that can lead to unexpected flavors, all while emphasizing methods to preserve food freshness.

Explore the dark fairy tale "Legend" as the hosts dissect its unique blend of fantasy and horror. They delve into stunning visual aesthetics and character dynamics, notably the extravagant portrayal of the Lord of Darkness. Personal anecdotes highlight the film's evolving appreciation over time. The conversation touches on iconic moments, character transformations, and the emotional resonance of its music. Fans of the genre will enjoy insights into the cinematic journey of Tom Cruise and the enchanting yet complex narrative that defines this cult classic.

Explore the fascinating history and cultural significance of ninjas, tracing their origins from espionage specialists in feudal Japan to icons in modern media. Discover the myth versus reality of the shinobi, their tactical roles in warfare, and how they evolved from commoners to shogunate agents. Delve into the transformation of ninja lore, from magical beginnings to contemporary portrayals in video games and film. The discussion wraps with insights on iconic characters and their rich historical backgrounds, guaranteeing a captivating journey into the world of ninjas.

J.J. Posway, a longtime audio producer known for his work in unique storytelling, joins to discuss Quentin Dupieux's film, "Deerskin.” They explore the film’s quirky blend of dark humor and obsession, diving deep into the main character’s fixation on a deerskin jacket as a metaphor for identity. The discussion also touches on themes of loneliness, production insights, and the absurd realities of life captured through Dupieux’s lens. J.J. highlights the film's distinctive aesthetics, inviting listeners to appreciate its narrative depth.