

BrainStuff
iHeartPodcasts
Whether the topic is popcorn or particle physics, you can count on BrainStuff to explore -- and explain -- the everyday science in the world around us.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 5, 2023 • 7min
BrainStuff Classics: Who Is Krampus?
This horned holiday demon has entered our pop culture consciousness, but where do Krampus legends come from? Learn about the history of Krampusnacht in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/cultural-traditions/where-did-krampus-come-from.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 4, 2023 • 6min
What Came First, the Chicken or the Egg?
We think we have a solid scientific answer to this fun puzzler. Learn about the evolution of eggs and chickens in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/genetic/question85.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 3, 2023 • 6min
How Does Terracotta Work?
From humble planters to ancient statuary, terracotta is a seriously useful material. Learn more about this earthenware in today's epidose of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://home.howstuffworks.com/gardening/garden-design/terracotta.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 2, 2023 • 10min
How Does Buzz Aldrin Work?
The short answer here is 'very efficiently'! Though perhaps best known as the second man on the moon, Buzz Aldrin is a tireless champion of space exploration. Learn more in this episode of BrainsStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/buzz-aldrin.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 1, 2023 • 8min
How Do Poinsettias Work?
Discover the history and challenges of poinsettias, the highest selling potted plant during the holidays. Learn about their cultivation, association with Christmas, and debunking toxicity myths. Get tips on caring for these vibrant winter houseplants.

Nov 27, 2023 • 15min
What Is Zionism?
Zionism is the nationalist movement that established Israel and continues to support Judiaism's claim to that aland. It's also one of the most controversial and complex movements of our time. Learn how it got started in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/world-history/zionism.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 26, 2023 • 7min
How Do Marmosets Work?
These social, tree-dwelling monkeys are some of the smallest in the world. Learn more about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/marmoset.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 25, 2023 • 5min
BrainStuff Classics: How Did the Inca Knot Language Work?
The Inca never developed a system of writing, but they kept records and told stories through intricate knotwork. Learn what researchers know -- and what they're still looking to find out -- about Inca khipu in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/cultural-traditions/unraveling-khipu-inca-knot-language.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 24, 2023 • 4min
BrainStuff Classics: Does Turkey Really Make You Sleepy?
You may have heard that the tryptophan in turkey causes holiday naps, but it might not be the real culprit. Learn some turkey science in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/edible-innovations/question519.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 23, 2023 • 8min
What's the History of Thanksgiving?
Explore the development and origins of Thanksgiving, debunking myths of the first Thanksgiving. Learn about the Pilgrims' alliance with the Wampanoag Confederation, the role of Squanto, and how Sarah Josepha Hale made Thanksgiving a national holiday. Discover the traditions of the Thanksgiving meal, football games, and the Macy's parade. Delve into the establishment of the National Day of Mourning and historical misconceptions.