

Secretly Incredibly Fascinating
Alex Schmidt
A weekly podcast about the history, science, lore and surprises that make everyday things secretly incredibly fascinating. Hosted by comedy writer, emoji creator, and ‘Jeopardy!‘ champion Alex Schmidt. Join Alex & his co-host Katie Goldin for a joyful deep dive into seeing the world a whole new way! (For research sources, bonus episodes, and how you can support the podcast, visit sifpod.fun.)
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 6, 2025 • 59min
Flamingos
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why flamingos are secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

Sep 29, 2025 • 1h 12min
Bluetooth
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why Bluetooth is secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

Sep 22, 2025 • 57min
Lint!
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why lint is secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5(Alex’s old podcast hosting service required a minimum of 5 characters per episode title, and he's keeping that going for fun. So that’s why this episode’s title has an exclamation point)

Sep 15, 2025 • 1h 11min
Neapolitan Ice Cream
Explore the delightful world of Neapolitan ice cream, from childhood scooping techniques to its vibrant visual appeal. Discover how ancient Naples influenced this beloved treat and the role of Italian immigrants in shaping its American identity. The hosts debunk the astronaut ice cream myth while revealing the real goodies enjoyed in space. Lastly, uncover the fascinating connections between Neapolitan foods and Italy's tricolor heritage, all wrapped in fun facts and personal anecdotes.

Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 5min
Glow-In-The-Dark Stuff
Dive into the fascinating world of glow-in-the-dark wonders! Discover the science behind why things glow through photoluminescence, radioluminescence, and chemiluminescence. The hosts share childhood memories of glow toys and explain the chemistry behind glow sticks. Learn about historical glowing materials, from ancient medicine to radium's dark past. The episode balances fun and education, shedding light on the shift to safer glowing technologies. Get ready to see glowing objects in a whole new light!

Sep 1, 2025 • 1h 13min
The Color Red
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why the color red is secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 16min
Root Beer
Delve into the intriguing world of root beer, from its nostalgic cultural significance to its quirky flavors. Discover the fascinating historical roots linking the beverage to Native American practices and medicinal uses. Unearth the charming evolution of ads and modern revivals like Kronk. Laugh along with stories of accidental inventions like root beer floats and playful canine contests. Explore the contrasts in soda culture across cultures, all the while celebrating the delightful legacy of this bubbly treat.

Aug 18, 2025 • 1h 7min
Cathode Ray Tubes
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why cathode ray tubes are secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 13min
Zoos!
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why zoos are secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5(Alex’s old podcast hosting service required a minimum of 5 characters per episode title, and he's keeping that going for fun. So that’s why this episode’s title has an exclamation point)

Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 27min
http www
Alex Schmidt and special guest Jason Pargin explore why "http www" is secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5