Decoder Ring

Aki Peritz, a former CIA counterterrorism analyst, discusses the stark differences between fictional 'stringboards' and real investigative practices. Shawn Gilmore, a scholar documenting the trope, highlights its array of representations in media. They explore how these boards act as both insight tools and symbols of obsession, tracing their cultural evolution from early cinematic representations to their contemporary presence. Aki argues against their practicality in real investigations, while Shawn notes their role in conspiracy movements, showing how fiction shapes public perception of investigative methods.

Dive into the provocative world of the 'cuck' phenomenon, sparked by a viral tweet featuring a hotel chair. Explore the surprising history of cuckolding, from Jacobean dramas to its current status in pornography. Discover how pornography influences mainstream culture, while societal discomfort keeps it in the shadows. Hear experts discuss the internet's role in shaping cuckold identities and how the term evolved from fetish to political slur, especially among the alt-right. This episode challenges listeners to confront the taboo nature of these cultural signals.

The podcast dives into why actors often sing in films instead of using original recordings. It explores the history of ghost singers in Hollywood and the emergence of playback in Bollywood. Insights from music critics reveal the impact of method acting on expectations for live singing. The discussion highlights how sometimes actors' attempts at singing can detract from storytelling and the evolution of music biopics where authenticity is key. Listeners will learn about celebrated playback singers who dominate Indian cinema, contrasting their visibility with Hollywood's hidden talents.

In part two of our special two-part episode, we return to the 1982 VHS tape that created the at-home video industry: Jane Fonda’s Workout. On this episode, originally released in 2020, we deconstruct the tape itself, how it was made, and why anyone thought it was a good idea in the first place. Then we’ll explore how it was possible for an extremely polarizing political activist, despised by some for her activism during the Vietnam War, to become America’s premier exercise guru. It’s a story that involves one enterprising home video visionary, dozens of ridiculous celebrity workout tapes, Tricky Dick Nixon, and one very full life. Some of the voices you’ll hear on this episode include Jane Fonda; Court Shannon, former Karl Video employee; and Mary Hershberger, author of Jane Fonda’s War.  This episode was written by Willa Paskin. It was edited and produced by Benjamin Frisch. We had research assistance from Cleo Levin. Decoder Ring is produced by Katie Shepherd, Max Freedman, and Evan Chung, our supervising producer. Merritt Jacob is Senior Technical Director. If you have any cultural mysteries you want us to decode, email us at DecoderRing@slate.com, or leave a message on the Decoder Ring hotline at 347-460-7281. We love to hear any and all of your ideas for the show.  Get more of Decoder Ring with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of Decoder Ring and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the Decoder Ring show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/decoderplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jane Fonda, the iconic actress turned fitness guru, teams up with Leni Cazden, the fitness instructor who originally crafted the revolutionary Jane Fonda workout. Together, they discuss the dramatic origins of this fitness phenomenon and the resurgence it experienced during the pandemic. The conversation dives into their complex friendship, marked by betrayal and survival, while also exploring how Fonda's activism intersects with her fitness journey. Listeners will get an intimate look at the personal struggles and triumphs that shaped their lives and careers.

In this engaging discussion, guests Sam Kean, a science writer and author of 'Dinner with King Tut', archaeologist Karen Harry, and Native Hawaiian advocate Nāʻālehu Anthony share their insights into experimental archaeology. They delve into recreating ancient practices to uncover lost knowledge, including the exciting story of hunting mammoths and unique pottery techniques. Nāʻālehu discusses the revival of Polynesian navigational skills, intertwining culture with adventure. Discover how these experiments enrich our understanding of history!

Join June Thomas, an author and podcaster with a keen interest in cultural narratives, as she tackles the notorious stereotype of British teeth. Delve into the historical roots behind perceptions of dental health, exploring how sugar consumption and national identity shape attitudes. Hear insightful contrasts between the American fixation on perfect smiles and British acceptance of imperfections. June also discusses the NHS's role in evolving dental care standards and challenges misconceptions, paving the way for a deeper understanding of dental aesthetics.

Join linguistics professor Nicole Holliday, who explores the nuances of language and identity, alongside professional namer Laurel Sutton, as they dive into listener questions. They discuss the quirky journey of the 'ass intensifier' in casual speech. Get insights into how pharmaceutical names are crafted, revealing the blend of creativity and regulatory challenges behind them. They also tackle the bizarre phenomenon of cow abductions by aliens, tracing its cultural roots and implications, all while keeping the conversation lively and humorous.

If you look at any list of best-selling cookbooks, certain words come up over and over again: quick, easy, fast, effortless. But is it actually possible to deliver deliciousness in no time? Or are these recipes too good to be true? This week, The Sporkful talks with intrepid journalist Tom Scocca, who exposed the dirty secret about caramelized onions; recipe-writing legend Christopher Kimball; and food writer (and mom) Elizabeth Dunn, who’s sick of feeling bad when a recipe turns out to be harder than she expected. And we ask: Why do recipes that look simple on paper turn out to be very different once you get into the kitchen? Tom Scocca is the editor of Indiginity, and you can read his Slate story about caramelizing onions here. Christopher Kimball is the founder of Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street. Elizabeth Dunn co-writes the newsletter Consumed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mack Hagood, a professor at Miami University and author of Hush, dives deep into the booming white noise industry, now valued at $1.3 billion. He explores why so many people are drawn to synthetic and natural sounds for comfort and concentration. The conversation reveals how white noise has transformed from a niche solution into a mainstream phenomenon, fueled by platforms like Spotify. Additionally, Hagood discusses the historical evolution of sound management and the fascination with auditory experiences, highlighting a modern obsession with masking noise.