Ridiculous History

Nowadays the iconic 'SPAM' logo is recognized around the world -- whether you're traveling in the US state of Minnesota or Busan, Korea, you'll more often than not run into a couple of Spam cans in the local grocery store. But what made this particular processed meat so popular? Join Ben, Noel and special guest, Savor cohost Anney Reese as they explore the strange circumstances that paved the way for the rise of Spam in this week's Classic episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ah, the bane of authors, students and copywriters the world round: the infamous typo! Something as small as a single misplaced letter can call the entire credibility of a book, text, or essay into question. Usually readers can still "get the gist," but every so often an innocent typo sows chaos, hilarity, scandal and disaster. In today's episode, Ben, Noel and Max explore some of history's weirdest, funniest -- and most expensive -- typos.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What on Earth is a "palooka"? In today's episode, Ben, Noel and Max embark on a bizarre journey -- inspired by a single, fascinating word, they discover one of the weirdest, life-long beefs between two cartoonist legends of yesteryear. We don't want to spoil it, so please tune in! Also, the guys once again crack on James Joyce.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With another Father's Day in the books, Ben, Noel and Max hit the new studio for the first time, exploring the history of this paternal partner to the slightly-more famous Mother's Day. Featuring a cameo from the one and only Matt in this week's Classic episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's episode, Ben, Noel and Max discover stunning commonalities between Father's Day celebrations across culture, community, and time. We wrote that first sentence knowing our Dads will not read the rest, and we genuinely believe we have some good jokes with this one.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For most of us -- hopefully! -- dental care is a fundamental piece of the morning routine. There are few things quite as refreshing as starting the day with a fresh, minty smile. Then, of course, deodorant (please)! In the second part of the History of Morning Routines, Ben, Noel and Max give massive thanks to the many inventors of yesteryear who worked tirelessly to create toothbrushes, toothpaste, and deodorant. Along the way, the guys discover some immensely devious marketing, and invent a new insult: "you sweat-ridden child."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1805, two French Marshals found themselves in quite a pickle -- Jean Lannes and Joachim Murat needed to cross the Danube at the Tabor bridge (a series of three bridges, actually) to reach Vienna. However, Austrian forces held the bridges and were prepared to destroy them before allowing the French to cross. With a brilliant talent for improvisation and more than a healthy dose of confidence, the Marshalls proceeded to con their way across the bridge without firing a shot. Listen in to learn more in today's Classic episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's no secret that politics can be a minefield of quirky events, and strange things happen in the lead up to elections. But just how strange can it get? Join the guys and returning guest Christopher Hassiotis as they explore bizarre tales of non-human politicians in this special Classic episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover the fascinating evolution of morning routines, from simple scrubs to elaborate rituals. The hosts hilariously explore the historical origins of soap, linking it to ancient cleaning practices and the unexpected quirks of hygiene history. Learn about the hygiene revolution brought by the ancient Greeks, and how societal norms shifted from communal bathhouses to modern showers. With humorous anecdotes and insights, this conversation unpacks the cultural significance of cleanliness through the ages.

Dive into the eerie world of the Aswang, a legendary Filipino vampire, as the CIA exploits its mythology for psychological warfare. Discover how folklore became a tool to instill fear and manipulate local beliefs during the Cold War. The hosts share their childhood fears and examine the captivating myths surrounding the Aswang, while raising ethical questions about the dark arts of PSYOPs. They also discuss fascinating legends like Yamashita's Gold, blending humor and horror in a bizarre historical narrative.