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
Jun 9, 2025 • 1h 11min
VHS Tapes
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why VHS tapes 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
Jun 2, 2025 • 1h 11min
Bubble Tea
Dive into the delightful world of bubble tea, where quirky anecdotes meet fascinating cultural insights. Discover how a toxic root became a beloved drink, and learn about the playful rivalry over its origins. Explore the chemistry behind popping boba and its unique textures. It’s not all fun and games, as discussions on cultural appropriation and commercialization add depth to the bubble tea phenomenon. Join the hosts as they unwrap the layers of this trendy treat and its impact on global cuisine.
May 26, 2025 • 1h 18min
Emergency Phone Numbers
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why emergency phone numbers 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
May 19, 2025 • 1h 11min
Cinnamon
Alex Schmidt, Katie Goldin, and special guest Seth Lind explore why cinnamon 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
May 12, 2025 • 1h
Heterochromia
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why heterochromia 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
May 5, 2025 • 1h 11min
The Northwest Passage
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why the Northwest Passage 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
21 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 1h 8min
Spam!
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why Spam 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)
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
