
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

Feb 17, 2025 • 1h 7min
The Cool S
Join Sequoia Holmes, host of the celebrated podcast Black People Love Paramore, as she dives into the nostalgic world of 'the cool S.' The discussion uncovers the symbol's origins in 1970s graffiti culture and its whimsical connections to pop icons like Frank Sinatra. With a humorous take on creativity and identity, they explore why this seemingly simple doodle resonates with those born between 1980 and 2000. The episode is a delightful blend of personal anecdotes, social commentary, and artistic exploration.

Feb 10, 2025 • 2min
programming note: no new episode this week, so Alex can recuperate
Programming note: Alex got sick and is resting up. No SIF episode this week. New SIF episode next week. And thanks for your kind patience.

Feb 3, 2025 • 1h 9min
Accordions
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why accordions 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

Jan 27, 2025 • 1h 10min
Nighthawks (1942)
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why the painting "Nighthawks" by Edward Hopper is secretly incredibly fascinating. (Here's a direct link to see the painting: https://www.artic.edu/artworks/111628/nighthawks)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

Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 5min
Cheddar Cheese
Alex Schmidt, Katie Goldin, and special guest Ben Partridge explore why cheddar cheese 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

Jan 13, 2025 • 1h 7min
Computer Mice
Dive into the quirky origins of the computer mouse, initially funded by NASA during the space race. Discover how mice evolved from clunky ball designs to sleek optical versions, intertwined with fascinating anecdotes. Explore the pace of pro gamers hitting up to 500 actions per minute and the peculiarities of mouse-clicking strategies. Reflect on gender dynamics in tech and the social shifts surrounding this iconic device. With humor and insightful commentary, the podcast uncovers the unexpected significance of everyday tech.

Jan 6, 2025 • 1h 7min
Road Atlases
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why road atlases 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

Dec 30, 2024 • 5min
a holiday hello, and a live episode about weasels!
Happy holidays from us (Alex and Katie)! Please enjoy this holiday hello. Please also enjoy a full new SIF episode in bonus feeds. And see you in 2025!To hear that live London episode, all about weasels, support us and grab your bonus feeds at maximumfun.org/join

Dec 23, 2024 • 1h 7min
Christmas Trees
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why Christmas trees 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

Dec 16, 2024 • 1h 5min
Antidisestablishmentarianism
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why antidisestablishmentarianism 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
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