Ridiculous History

Discover the humorous roots of karaoke, sparked by one man's frustration with coworkers. This engaging discussion highlights the joy and nostalgia associated with sing-alongs, from childhood car memories to the evolution of karaoke machines. Delve into fascinating anecdotes about key figures like Walt Disney and explore how karaoke transformed from a modest pastime into a global sensation. It’s a musical journey that emphasizes community and shared experiences, setting the stage for karaoke's powerful cultural impact.

It's become one of the strangest anecdotes in modern American history -- numerous sources will swear to you that, in a last-minute panic before reaching customs, legendary musician Louis Armstrong had Richard Nixon's unwitting assistance smuggling a hefty amount of marijuana through US customs. It's bizarre (and pretty hilarious) if true... but how true is it? Tune in as the guys get to the bottom of this bizarre American fable in this week's Classic episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's be honest: when many Americans think of Nebraska, we immediately think of corn. Yet there's much more to the Cornhusker State than a single crop. In today's episode, Ben, Noel and Max dive into several ridiculous bits of Nebraska history, from an epic barn move to the surprising, silly origin story of how Lincoln, Nebraska ended up with its name.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alcatraz! For a lot of us, this former island prison occupies an iconic space in the American zeitgeist. It's been home to some of the country's most notorious criminals, and has been the inspiration for tons of top-notch works of fiction and cinema. Yet in today's episode, Ben, Noel and Max learn this supposedly-impenetrable place was not once, but multiple times invaded and occupied by Native American activists in the modern day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Progress versus preservation: It's one of the eternal dilemmas found throughout every instance of human civilization. Should we embrace disruptive thoughts and science that challenges our beliefs, or should we cling to the comfort of the status quo? Join Ben and Noel in this week's Classic episode as they explore the tragic and inspiring stories of books that were banned not for racy, fictional scenes -- but for furthering our understanding of the universe and our place within it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today pasta is a worldwide phenomena, and the story of pasta's spread is, in a very real way, also a study of global trade and civilization. Tune in to part two of this week's two-part series as Ben, Noel and Max explore the continuing evolution of pasta. (Spoiler: people are still inventing new shapes!)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pasta is amazing. But where does the concept come from? In part one of this week's two-part series, Ben, Noel and Max delve into the origin of a simple series of ingredients -- and discover there's a lot more to the story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discovery of a vanished waterfall in South America highlights humanity's tendency to forget significant histories. The nostalgic reminiscence of '80s concerts and the cultural impact of TLC's 'Waterfalls' adds a fun twist. Explore the controversy surrounding the Itiapo Dam and its devastating effects on local communities and ecosystems. A humorous dive into iconic dams and personal vehicle stories connects past joys to modern environmental challenges, leaving listeners reflecting on progress and the cost of dreams.

Dive into the bizarre and intricate world of patents! Explore how these legal protections can stifle creativity yet encourage innovation. Discover the surprising origins, from the first recorded patent in 1421 to the Royal favoritism that shaped history. Uncover the modern complexities faced by inventors today, including ethical dilemmas and the controversial roles of some modern figures in shaping the patent landscape. Enjoy a humorous take on quirky patents and their place in pop culture!

Christina wasn't your average monarch of her day -- while many rulers sought to subjugate and terrorize their kingdoms, she sought to acquire knowledge, and to empower the public with information. Often called the "Minerva of the North," this ruler skillfully navigated treacherous geopolitical waters while also seeking to establish Stockholm as an international center of intellectual and philosophical thought. Eventually, she quit the job altogether.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.