

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

Mar 1, 2025 • 45min
From the Vault: Strange Ice, Part 2
Discover the bizarre properties and extraordinary formations of ice, as hosts dive into unusual ice phenomena enriched by folklore. Unearth the dangers ice poses, especially for children, alongside captivating stories of its ecological significance. Explore mesmerizing blue ice in glaciers and learn about the unique features of Antarctic icebergs. Journey to Saturn's moon Titan to uncover intriguing hydrocarbon icebergs and atmospheric transformations. This dramatic tale blends science with the mystique of ice, revealing its multifaceted wonders.

Feb 28, 2025 • 1h 38min
Weirdhouse Cinema: Gargoyles
Dive into the enchanting world of the 1972 film 'Gargoyles,' where nostalgic horror meets quirky storytelling. Explore its unique character dynamics and the creative influence of Stan Winston's makeup effects. Discover what sets made-for-TV horror apart, filled with suspense and imagination. The hosts delve into eerie visuals and urban myths, while also recounting their whimsical visit to Uncle Willie's Desert Museum. From emotional depth to humorous anecdotes, this discussion captures the rich tapestry of folklore and the charm of classic horror.

9 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 45min
Mystery Cults, Part 1
Discover the enigmatic world of Greco-Roman mystery cults and their intricate rituals. Explore the historical significance of initiation rites and the emotional depth behind ancient practices. Compare these ancient beliefs with modern religions and delve into how gods were localized over time. Uncover the psychological roots of divine belief linked to human experiences. This fascinating exploration invites you to re-evaluate ancient traditions and their ongoing influence on contemporary religious practices.

Feb 26, 2025 • 6min
The Monstrefact: Count Orlok
Dive into the eerie world of Count Orlok, the unsettling vampire from the silent classic 'Nosferatu.' Discover the legal drama surrounding its connection to Dracula and its reflection on post-WWI Germany. Explore Orlok's cinematic legacy and how his image transformed horror cinema. Delve into the dark themes of sexuality and predation in vampire lore, while unraveling the meanings behind his haunting feeding habits. It's a fascinating journey through history, myth, and the art of fear.

Feb 25, 2025 • 41min
STBYM Listener Mail: Translucent Black Capes
Listeners dive into the visionary world of Jules Verne and nostalgic cotton candy tales. The conversation shifts to quirky food flavors and tech innovations, revealing the quirky delights of meal delivery services. Insights into pretend play's impact on children's anxiety are humorously contrasted with adults' perceptions. Plus, the joy of 'willing suspension of disbelief' in entertainment, along with nostalgic musings on classic films, including giant bugs and Kung Fu zombies, keep the vibe lively and engaging.

Feb 24, 2025 • 1h 24min
Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: The Green Slime
Dive into the absurd charm of a 1968 sci-fi film filled with rubbery monsters and quirky characters. Discover the unique blend of Japanese and American influences. Explore nostalgic themes, catchy tunes, and unexpected narrative threads that draw comparisons to classics. Analyze how character dynamics infuse humor and chaos into thrilling escapades. Uncover the magic of practical effects versus CGI, and savor the chaotic relationships that blossom amidst a space station crisis and a dramatic standoff. It's a delightful mix of camp and charm!

Feb 22, 2025 • 47min
From the Vault: Strange Ice, Part 1
Dive into the captivating world of ice formations! Explore the wonders of ice spikes and nieves penitentes, revealing the conditions that create these unique structures. Discover the beauty of snow-laden mountains and their implications for both Earth and extraterrestrial exploration. Learn about the fascinating properties of candle ice and the environmental impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems. This journey intertwines historical insights with modern life, showcasing the complexity and wonder of ice in our world.

Feb 21, 2025 • 1h 10min
Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: The Viewing
Dive into a conversation about the psychotronic short film 'The Viewing,' dissecting its haunting narrative and aesthetic prowess. Explore the evolution of B-movies and the influence of psychedelic culture on modern filmmaking. Discover the creative struggles against AI in storytelling and applaud the unique character journeys portrayed by talented actors. Relish the blend of humor and tension as characters face surreal experiences, all while savoring the ties between cinematic settings and the beverages that enhance them.

Feb 20, 2025 • 56min
From the Vault: The Illusion of Control, Part 3
Explore the fascinating psychological concept of the illusion of control. Discover how this bias influences everything from gambling behaviors to our daily choices. Learn about its dual nature, especially in health outcomes and decision-making. Delve into how bowlers grapple with superstitions and perceived control in their performance. Uncover the broader implications of believing we have more influence over our lives than we truly do, and how technology shapes our perceptions and beliefs.

Feb 19, 2025 • 6min
The Monstrefact Redux: Aliens of the Planet of Doubt
Discover a fictional alien world on Uranus where bizarre creatures roam amidst a foggy backdrop. Explore the unique biology of beings reminiscent of caterpillars, highlighting the thrilling intersection of imagination and science fiction. Dive into a narrative that blends exploration with the oddities of nature, revealing hidden truths in a fascinating landscape. The contrast between Uranus's harsh environment and vibrant alien life forms offers a captivating journey into what extraterrestrial encounters might look like.


