Secretly Incredibly Fascinating

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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