

Omnibus
Omnibus
Every week, Ken Jennings and John Roderick add a new entry to the OMNIBUS, an encyclopedic reference work of strange-but-true stories that they are compiling as a time capsule for future generations.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 17, 2025 • 1h 24min
Pulgasari (Entry 1007.IS4602)
In which North Korea jump-starts its fledgeling monster movie industry by literally kidnapping talent from across the DMZ, and Ken was distracted by skateboarding. Certificate #37139

Apr 10, 2025 • 1h 24min
The World's Tallest Building (Entry 1444.GE1104)
In which the measurement of spires and skyscrapers becomes a source of architectural squabbles and global prestige, and John hides in the forest with a guitar. Certificate #51591.

8 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 1h 28min
Anthropology Days (Entry 053.NU1516)
Discover the fascinating history of animal exhibitions and the ethical dilemmas surrounding them. The conversation dives deep into the 19th century's influence on modern perspectives, with humor sprinkled throughout. Reflecting on the original Olympic spirit, they discuss race and representation, revealing surprising stories from the 1904 Games. Listen as they critique the periodic table's shortcomings and explore the commercialization of culture at events like Disney. Join the hosts for a fun mix of history, science, and social commentary!

11 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 1h 20min
The Mona Lisa Heist (Entry 800.JN1206)
Discover the audacious theft of the Mona Lisa, highlighting the intriguing escapades of Vincenzo Perugia and the chaotic aftermath of the heist. Explore the Louvre's evolving challenges with crowd management and the impact of social media on art appreciation. Delve into the changing perceptions of iconic artworks during the 19th century and the broader implications of cultural repatriation. Enjoy humorous anecdotes about art theft and societal reactions, reflecting on how history intertwines with modern perceptions of fame and ownership.

Mar 20, 2025 • 1h 14min
Genuine Leather (Entry 522.GE0321)
In which the tanning industry invents a fancy-sounding term for one of its worst grades of leather, and Ken learns his childhood jacket may have had epaulets. Certificate #46978.

Mar 13, 2025 • 1h 32min
The Dionne Quintuplets (Entry 352.JB0525)
In which five adorable and identical Franco-Ontarians become an international sensation and then wards of the state, and John doesn't know what to call the bulb of Canada. Certificate #31042.

7 snips
Mar 6, 2025 • 1h 28min
Pedestrianism (Entry 913.PS1833)
In which the first great sporting fad of the 19th century springs from great feats of British walking, and Ken isn't sure how to use protozoa as a metaphor for time. Certificate #21218.

Feb 27, 2025 • 1h 31min
The Battle of the Sisters (Entry 104.GE3008)
In which Hollywood's greatest case of sibling rivalry begins with a swimming pool injury and ends at the Oscars, and John rediscovers pop music thanks to the Queeb. Certificate #30747.

Feb 20, 2025 • 1h 20min
The Golden Age of Porn (Entry 537.1C0618)
In which we celebrate the post-Valentine's season by looking back at the sleazy 1970s when adult films briefly became mainstream chic, and Ken avoids a Y2K for his marriage. Certificate #25369.

13 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 1h 8min
The Oracle of Delphi (Entry 872.1S0911)
In which a veiled, fume-huffing priestess tells the ancient world what to do for over a millennium, and John only knows what time it is from his truck clock. Certificate #25192.