Joining the discussion is Michael Regilio, a comedian and podcaster known for his witty skepticism. He dives into the outrageous history of vanity products, from ancient mouse-ground remedies for hair loss to modern treatments with unexpected side effects. Regilio reveals the surprising origins of minoxidil and finasteride, and the unproven claims of collagen supplements. They also explore the bizarre teeth whitening practices of ancient Romans. This lively conversation blends humor, history, and a critical eye on beauty standards.

This week dives into the bizarre and entertaining world of catfishing as a listener reveals a surprising twist involving family. They also tackle the complexities of navigating cultural identity with a challenging foreign name and the impact it has on personal branding. Parenting takes center stage with a dad's concerns about his son facing stress and erectile dysfunction during military training, highlighting the need for open communication. Each topic is infused with humor and relatable insights that keep the conversation engaging and thought-provoking.

Join Gene Simmons, the legendary lead singer of KISS, as he shares his remarkable journey from an impoverished immigrant to a global rock icon. He discusses the true meaning of wealth as a tool for creating value and jobs. Gene explains KISS' unique focus on long-term fan loyalty over fleeting hits, emphasizing sustainability in the music industry. He also reveals his surprising depth of knowledge in theology and history, tackling criticisms with wit and wisdom, alongside insights about personal reinvention and the complexities of fame.

Meg Appelgate, CEO of Unsilenced and a survivor of the troubled teen industry, shares her eye-opening experiences in a system that affects over 120,000 youth annually. She discusses the deceptive marketing tactics used to ensnare vulnerable teens and critiques the severe practices rooted in historical trauma. The conversation also highlights the long-term psychological scars that such interventions leave, emphasizing the need for reform and the importance of nurturing support systems for adolescents.

Should you warn a colleague falling for an online scam or let karma take its course? A discussion unfolds on workplace dynamics, featuring a peculiar office manager and her questionable romance. A rising chef uncovers dark secrets involving shady tip practices in the kitchen. Meanwhile, a supermarket manager shares hilarious tales about his eccentric janitor, who cleans in his underwear! Humor and real-life anecdotes combine to explore the absurdities of toxic leadership and the chaos within professional environments.

Victor Vescovo, an explorer known for leading the Five Deeps expedition, discusses his groundbreaking journey to the deepest points of all five oceans. He shares insights on the innovative engineering behind his submersible, designed to withstand immense pressure. Vescovo highlights that 75% of the ocean remains unexplored, revealing how life's resilience thrives even in total darkness. He emphasizes that anyone can be an explorer by tackling big challenges step-by-step, inspiring new generations to venture into the unknown.

Jessica Nguyen, a writer and researcher specializing in food counterfeiting, dives into the shadowy world of the agromafia, a $16 billion global criminal enterprise. She reveals shocking examples of everyday food fraud, from mislabeled sushi to harmful additives in coffee. The potential health risks are severe, including melamine-tainted milk and nitrate-injected tuna. Nguyen emphasizes the need for consumer awareness and the challenges in regulating a complex, border-crossing food supply chain that often lets counterfeit foods slip through.

In this engaging discussion, the hosts tackle the fallout from a partner discovering a private journal filled with insecurities. They also explore the delicate balance of parenting a teenager experimenting with alcohol, highlighting the influence of past experiences. Another listener grapples with draining family dynamics in their relationship, questioning whether to stay or leave. Expect humor, heartfelt insights, and valuable advice on navigating trust and communication in relationships.

Ryan Holiday, an author and media strategist renowned for his work on Stoicism, shares insights on achieving sustainable contentment. He discusses how the pursuit of fame can become addictive and detracts from enjoying the work you love. Holiday emphasizes that many justify sacrificing family time for ambition, but ultimately, even the most renowned fade from memory. By focusing on intrinsic satisfaction rather than external validation, individuals can cultivate a more fulfilling life and maintain creative control, leading to personal and professional growth.

Comedian and podcaster Michael Regilio brings his skeptical lens to Traditional Chinese Medicine, unpacking its unexpected global rise. He reveals that TCM's popularity stems largely from political moves rather than proven effectiveness, particularly during Mao's reign. Regilio critiques the scientific foundations of core concepts like chi and meridians, emphasizing issues with data reliability in studies. The conversation dives into acupuncture’s reliance on placebo effects, prompting reflection on the efficacy and regulation of these ancient practices in today's healthcare landscape.