

Experimental History
Adam Mastroianni
1) Find what's true and make it useful. 2) Publish every other Tuesday. 3) Photo cred: my dad.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 9, 2024 • 26min
Is psychology going to Cincinnati?
In this intriguing discussion, the speaker critiques the state of psychological research and proposes five criteria for success. They challenge popular folk theories and highlight how psychology has debunked misconceptions in human understanding. The effectiveness of non-traditional methods over standard psychological practices is also explored, revealing surprising outcomes. The conversation delves into psychology's struggles with mental illness and the evolution of the field. Finally, a look at the paradox of antidepressants connects human behavior to culinary pride, showcasing Cincinnati chili.

Sep 10, 2024 • 18min
Blog Extravaganza: The Winners
Explore the bizarre and fascinating world of human anatomy, where criminal confessions reveal unexpected truths. Discover humorous self-experiments that blend skincare with creativity. Dive into contrasting educational perspectives, from biology enthusiasts to critiques of unconventional courses. Marvel at exceptional storytelling in blog posts, showcasing personal narratives and travel tales. Celebrate the oddities of blogging, including delightfully macabre topics. Finally, be inspired by standout submissions and the encouragement for aspiring bloggers to embrace their individuality.

Aug 27, 2024 • 18min
There's a place for everyone
Discover the significance of cognitive diversity and the unique roles individuals can carve out in unconventional job markets. Hear engaging stories like that of a 'breakup whisperer' and the struggles of finding personal niches in a globalized world. Explore the emotional quest for belonging and the communal challenges that come with fitting into societal expectations. Reflect on identity and inclusion through personal journeys, underscoring the beauty of diversity and the importance of embracing individual passions.

Aug 13, 2024 • 23min
Bloodletting, leeches, and other FDA-approved treatments
Discover the surprising comeback of ancient medical practices like bloodletting and leeches in today’s FDA-approved treatments. Dive into how early photography impacted advertising and the stark contrast between ornate architecture and minimalism. Enjoy quirky trivia, such as the unexpected American love for Axis power songs and an obscure hiccup remedy. Uncover chilling tales of unethical CIA experiments and the dark side of scientific integrity amidst personal anecdotes. This journey melds history, culture, and ethical dilemmas with a dose of humor.

Jul 30, 2024 • 14min
Good ideas don't need bayonets
Exploring the troubling trends in academic science, the discussion critiques authoritarian measures that threaten genuine progress. It underscores the complexity of social issues, promoting collaboration over top-down solutions. Challenging common misconceptions about power dynamics, it emphasizes the unpredictability of revolutions. The importance of truth in shaping reality is highlighted, warning against the dangers of false beliefs. Ultimately, it champions diversity and individual agency as vital to building a democratic society.

Jul 16, 2024 • 23min
Who's got the guts to go to the moon?
The podcast explores shortcomings in cancer research, funding initiatives, courage in funding non-mainstream ideas, reimagining scientific training, conducting comprehensive studies, and an unconventional mask-wearing experiment on a cruise ship.

Jul 3, 2024 • 11min
The first transmissions from Science House
Exploring Science House's innovative approach, training scientists in unconventional topics. Importance of skepticism, empiricism in distinguishing fact from fiction in cooking, sleep advice. Advocating for evidence-based practices and diversity. Supporting Science House for impactful training, transforming into permanent scientific institution.

Jun 17, 2024 • 15min
Surely you can be serious
Exploring the impact of a psychological intervention on SAT scores with a twist on a nationwide backslapping campaign. Reflecting on seriousness in academia and the advice to work for a dictator before pursuing independent paths. Emphasizing the importance of seriousness in life and debunking common misconceptions.

May 28, 2024 • 7min
The Summer 2024 Blog Post Competition, Extravaganza, and Jamboree
Exploration of Experimental History Summer 2024 Blog Post Competition, emphasizing the value of blogging. Submission guidelines for participants to win cash prizes and be featured on the Experimental History blog.

May 14, 2024 • 23min
How to get 7th graders to smoke
Exploring unintended consequences of anti-drug programs for 7th graders, challenges in changing human behavior, critique of workplace ethics training, comedic struggles of starting a workout routine, and interventions against implicit biases with a call for responsibility in program implementation.