Ridiculous History

Stuffed crust pizza. Grilled cheese burritos. How did so much cheese get into so many things? On today's episode, we peel back the curtain on the Dairy Industrial Complex — AKA Big Parma.  * VERY SPECIAL CREDITS On the Very Special Episodes podcast, we tell one incredible story each week. Follow Dana Schwartz, Zaron Burnett, and Jason English down a different rabbit hole every Wednesday.  Today’s Episode Was Written and Hosted by Very Special Guest Stars Ben Bowlin and Alex French Producer is Josh Fisher Editing and Sound Design by Chris Childs Additional Editing by Mary Dooe Mixing and Mastering by Baheed Frazier Original Music by Elise McCoy  Show Logo by Lucy Quintanilla   Executive Producer is Jason English Thanks for listening! If you're enjoying Very Special Episodes, please leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. You can reach the show at veryspecialepisodes@gmail.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The concept of writing is explored as both brilliant and insane. Delve into the evolution of the English alphabet through its historical and cultural influences. Discover how writing began with primitive tokens, transitioning to the phonetic alphabet. Enjoy humorous banter while analyzing the differences between Old and Middle English. The rich legacy of language intertwines with history, revealing its profound impact on communication. Plus, learn fascinating tidbits from texts like 'Beowulf' and 'The Canterbury Tales' that highlight the quirky developments along the way!

Meet Max the gorilla, who became an unexpected crime-fighter in South Africa, captivating audiences with his heroic antics. His rise to fame during the troubled 1990s provided a beacon of hope amid the struggles against apartheid. The podcast also delves into gorillas' majestic lives and the historical context that shaped their world. Intriguingly, Max's story intertwines with broader themes of justice, community resilience, and the complex dynamics of the fight for equality, inviting reflections on heroism in an unjust society.

Discover how mistranslations have sparked fascinating theories about life on Mars and shaped Cold War narratives. Laugh at marketing blunders like IKEA's 'Fartful' toy and missteps in car names that went hilariously wrong across cultures. Delve into the political repercussions of Khrushchev's words and the human tendency to see patterns, even in translation errors. From Pepsi's faux pas to the cultural impacts of linguistic miscommunication, this exploration shows just how vital context and accuracy can be.

The hosts delve into the absurdity of neckties, questioning why these peculiar accessories became symbols of professionalism. They explore their origins from ancient civilizations to modern fashion statements. Humorously, the discussion highlights the ties' ornamental nature and their evolution as status symbols, even referencing royals' influence on trends. The art of knot tying and critiques of fashion trends add depth, making listeners ponder the ridiculous yet fascinating history behind this staple of civilization.

Dive into the eccentric life of Santa Anna, a larger-than-life figure known as 'The Napoleon of the West.' Discover how he lost his leg not just once, but twice, leading to a dramatic funeral for the severed limb. Delve into the colorful controversies surrounding his captured leg, which turned into a prized relic. This episode blends humor with insightful historical anecdotes, showcasing Santa Anna's impact on Mexican politics and his bizarre legacy, including the surprising connection to the origins of chewing gum.

Discover the surprising transformation of Super Bowl Halftime Shows from humble beginnings with marching bands to epic cultural spectacles. Explore landmark performances, including Michael Jackson's game-changing appearance and the controversies that defined the shows, such as the infamous Janet Jackson incident. Unpack how technology, like 3D integration, has played a role, and reflect on memorable tributes, like Creed's emotional performance post-9/11. This journey illustrates how halftime shows have become a unifying force in American entertainment.

The evolution of the Super Bowl Halftime Show is a fascinating tale of transformation from marching bands to superstar spectacles. Discover how these performances grew into cultural phenomena that captivate not just football fans, but a global audience. From wardrobe malfunctions to legendary acts, the show blends entertainment and tradition. The podcast dives into the whimsical history, including amusing anecdotes and notable moments that have defined this iconic halftime entertainment. Buckle up for a chaotic and humorous ride through halftime history!

Inarguably the most well-known Wookie in the Star Wars universe, Chewbacca also bears a strong resemblance to another popular creature in American culture -- the towering, hirsute cryptid known as Bigfoot. So much so, in fact, that during filming the studio (allegedly) became very concerned for the safety of Peter Mayhew, the actor who played Chewbacca onscreen. While filming Return of the Jedi in the forests of the California redwoods, guards accompanied the costumed Peter Mayhew so that Bigfoot hunters wouldn't shoot him. So what's the big deal with California and Bigfoot? Tune in to find out.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover the fascinating evolution of emergency call lines and how they save lives today. The hosts explore the history behind 911, its adoption across North America, and cultural perceptions surrounding the number. You'll hear hilarious and bizarre anecdotes of misdialed calls that highlight what people consider an 'emergency.' Dive into the challenges of modern emergency services, including the dark side of internet culture, and learn about the ongoing improvements that help connect us with first responders.