
Secretly Incredibly Fascinating
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.)
Latest episodes

Apr 21, 2025 • 1h 6min
Copper
Alex Schmidt, Katie Goldin, and special guest Janet Varney explore why copper 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

Apr 14, 2025 • 1h 3min
Easter Eggs
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why Easter eggs 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

Apr 7, 2025 • 1h 10min
Theremins
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why theremins 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

Mar 31, 2025 • 1h 11min
Indigo
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why indigo 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

Mar 24, 2025 • 1h 22min
Salt!
Join Jason Pargin, an author and frequent guest, as he delves into the captivating world of salt. Discover how salt has evolved from a vital commodity to a contemporary culinary staple, shaped by the innovations of the Duncan brothers and Morton’s clever marketing. Pargin humorously contrasts grocery shopping experiences across centuries and the complex implications of iodized salt on public health. Their playful critiques of pop culture and the absurdities surrounding salt in fashion make for an entertaining exploration of this essential mineral.

Mar 18, 2025 • 1h 19min
Alex joins MFD Spring Break
It’s not MaxFunDrive without a wild kickoff spectacular! Former real-life VJ and host of MTV's Spring Break 1999, Dave Holmes, takes your favorite MaxFun hosts through some wacky ‘90s- and Spring Break-themed mini games!!Featuring: Dave Holmes, Jeremy Bent, Oscar Montoya, Dimitry Pompée, Tom Lum, Ellen Weatherford, Alex Schmidt, Brenda Snell, Drea Clark, Alonso Duralde, Dan McCoy, Jordan Morris, Manolo Moreno, Ella Hubber, Caroline Roper, Ella McLeod, John-Luke Roberts, Justin McElroy, Clint McElroy, Mike Cabellon, Sierra Katow, Hal Lublin, Danielle Radford, John Moe, Christian Dueñas, Christian Duguay.Timestamps:(00:00:00) Intro(00:02:22) Tom, Ellen, Alex, and Brenda Trivia

Mar 17, 2025 • 1h 11min
The Y2K Bug
Clint and Justin McElroy, podcasters and comic book authors famous for their work on The Adventure Zone, take a hilarious trip down memory lane to explore the Y2K bug. They recount their personal experiences and the absurdity of prepping for a tech apocalypse, including stockpiling toilet paper as currency. The discussion wades through wild media hysteria, bizarre advice, and the ironic aftermath of global preparations for a non-event. With humor and community spirit, the McElroys shine a light on our quirky relationship with technology and the past.

Mar 10, 2025 • 1h 1min
Six Degrees Of Kevin Bacon
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why "six degrees of Kevin Bacon" 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

Mar 3, 2025 • 1h 5min
Esperanto
Dive into the intriguing world of Esperanto, where aspirations for universal communication clash with linguistic reality. Discover the impressive reach of the Esperanto Wikipedia, showcasing a thriving community. Learn about the visionary L. L. Zamenhof and how his creation sought to unite diverse cultures. Explore the unexpected role of Esperanto in resisting oppressive regimes and the whimsical anecdotes surrounding language learning. This conversation is filled with humor and insightful reflections on the quest for a language that promotes unity and connection.

Feb 24, 2025 • 1h 4min
Pangolins
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why pangolins 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
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.