Stuff You Missed in History Class

Journey into the depths of Kentucky's Mammoth Cave and explore the intense Cave Wars of the 19th and 20th centuries. Discover the gripping story of Floyd Collins, whose entrapment in the cave captivated the nation and ultimately influenced cave tourism. Learn about the crucial roles of enslaved guides like Stephen Bishop and how their contributions shaped the cave's legacy. This tumultuous saga intertwines tragedy, transformation, and fierce competition, redefining the allure of one of the world's longest cave systems.

Léonard Autié, a renowned hairdresser during the reign of King Louis XVI, transformed 18th-century French styling—setting trends that captivated the court of Marie Antoinette. He recounts his rise from rural obscurity to the heights of Parisian glamour, navigating the intricate salon culture filled with rivalry and romance. The podcast dives into Autié's innovative hairstyles and their socio-political implications amidst revolutionary turmoil, exploring his struggles and lasting legacy in a time when beauty dictated power.

Tracy, a stylish expert, joins Holly to dive into fascinating discussions about peer pressure and personal style. They share hilarious hair salon stories and reflect on the iconic 80s hairstyles, exploring how these trends shaped identity and self-expression. The duo also examines the quirky cultural journey of 'Evil Genius Perms,' linking them to mischief and villainy in media. Along the way, they highlight the importance of embracing authenticity and kindness in the world of unique hairstyles.

Charles Nessler, an early 1900s beauty innovator, is credited with creating the permanent wave, transforming the hair industry forever. He shares the fascinating journey from skepticism to acceptance of his groundbreaking technique. The discussion highlights how permanent waves shaped beauty standards and ignited the growth of salons as vital social spaces for women. Nessler's eccentric theories on hair's psychological implications also spark debate, showcasing his lasting impact on beauty culture. His legacy intertwines personal grooming with societal changes.

Vidkun Quisling, a key figure in WWII, is infamous for betraying Norway by collaborating with the Nazis. The discussion dives into his complex early life, including his unique political ideology and mentorship under Soviet influences. His rise to power and vision for a fascist regime is examined, as well as his controversial attempts to implement youth programs aimed at indoctrination. The podcast also details his treason trial, the consequences of his actions during the Holocaust, and the lasting impact of his treasonous legacy.

Dive into the dramatic tales of iconic shipwrecks like the Vasa, which sank tragically on its maiden voyage due to design flaws. Explore the innovative engineering of the USS Monitor and the haunting mystery of the H.L. Hunley, the first combat submarine. Discover the tragic final moments of Japan's Yamato battleship during WWII. This journey through maritime history reveals the incredible challenges and lessons learned from these legendary vessels.

Travel tales from live shows reveal the chaotic side of airline adventures. The hosts explore how communication often gets overanalyzed amidst social scrutiny. They dive into the ongoing challenges of public health, notably the issues surrounding norovirus and COVID-19 variants. Personal stories highlight the struggles with infectious diseases and healthcare responses. It's a blend of humor and serious reflections on health misconceptions and the importance of clear information in times of outbreaks.

Discover the fascinating stories behind three diseases named after individuals. Learn about the dramatic outbreak of Legionnaires' in 1976 and the challenges health officials faced. Uncover the infectious nature of norovirus, its historical roots, and the complexities of its identification. Dive into the tragic stories of the 1976 Ebola outbreaks, highlighting community impacts and response efforts. Explore the stigma surrounding disease names and their influence on public perception and healthcare.

Gene Stratton-Porter was a best-selling writer, illustrator, nature photographer, naturalist, and film producer. She shares her childhood experiences on a Wabash County farm, which ignited her passion for nature and writing. The conversation covers her resilience as a female naturalist facing societal challenges and her contributions to environmental preservation. Listeners are treated to stories of her literary success, activism against harmful practices, and the legacy of her nature preserves in Indiana.

Discover the fascinating history of Teatro alla Scala, a cornerstone of Italian culture since 1778. Learn about the restoration efforts that revived Milan's cultural heritage and the role of notable figures like Empress Maria Teresa. Explore the opera house's evolution through the influence of legendary composers such as Verdi and Puccini. Delve into the tumultuous premieres and enduring legacy of iconic works like 'Madama Butterfly.' This journey through art highlights La Scala's resilience and importance in the world of opera.