Endless Thread

A retrospective look at a relationship navigating gender transition and the emotional turns that follow. Stories of finding community online and discovering photos that offered hope. Honest moments about mental health, parenting through change, and renewing commitments. Reflections on everyday life after transition and resources that supported their journey.

Sarah Marshall, podcast host and writer who created The Devil You Know, walks through the 1980s Satanic Panic and its cultural roots. She traces how politics, media, and moral panic turned rumors into nationwide hysteria. The conversation considers how social media would alter rumor spread and whether the internet can help skeptics push back.

They dive into Reddit’s spicy debates about whether fruit should be heated or chilled. A claim that microwaving apples and bananas transforms them into dessert-like treats is tested and discussed. A separate thread argues the only proper way to peel a banana is from the bottom, sparking practical and cultural arguments. Playful experiments and strong opinions collide.

David Mech, a renowned wolf biologist and author of 'The Wolf,' explores the misconceptions surrounding the concept of the 'alpha wolf.' Initially popularized by his book, Mech reveals that this idea is a misinterpretation of wolf behavior. He explains the familial nature of wild wolf packs, challenging the dominance hierarchy notion. The discussion also delves into how the alpha myth has permeated into modern culture and impacts perceptions of masculinity, emphasizing that human leadership is far more complex.

John Stockwell, a stand-up comedian and software engineer, shares the story of his viral TikTok prank involving the continuous buying and returning of a 110-pound anvil on Amazon. He reveals how he engineered the tale with fake order pages and even developed a Chrome extension to pull it off. The hosts explore why the story resonated with so many, delving into Amazon's scale and the broader implications of online pranks. John also reflects on audience reactions, environmental concerns, and the narrative possibilities behind his unconventional bit.

Explore how the term 'unalive' evolved from memes to TikTok mental health communities as users navigate censorship. Discover the concept of algospeak, a new language shaped by social media algorithms. Learn about clever tactics employed on platforms like Reddit and TikTok to enhance engagement and virality. Delve into the rapid spread of slang due to influencers and algorithms. Debate the authenticity of this new language and its impact on identity. Ultimately, find a hopeful verdict on the future of slang in digital culture.

Justin, known as Reddit user Roner, shares a life-changing experience from a decade ago when he was stranded with a flat tire. A kind migrant family stopped to help, improvising a jack and sharing a tamale without asking for anything in return. This encounter inspired him to spread kindness and assist others. The conversation explores how small acts of kindness can ripple through communities, inviting listeners to embrace the philosophy of 'Today you, tomorrow me' in their own lives.

Harrison Renshaw, a YouTuber known for exploring internet culture, teams up with Rick Astley, the iconic singer of 'Never Gonna Give You Up,' to delve into the fascinating origins of the Rick Roll meme. They discuss early claims of its inception, including a prank call and its growth on platforms like 4Chan. Astley shares his mixed feelings about being the face of the meme and reflects on its unexpected resurgence during the pandemic. The podcast also explores why the song endures, thanks to its catchy hooks and unique musical structure.

Jay Foreman, a comedian and co-creator of the Map Men, dives into the unexpected impact of Google Maps over the past 20 years. He shares poignant stories of New Orleanians using Google Earth after Hurricane Katrina to regain agency over their lives. The discussion examines the dual-edged sword of navigation technology, revealing how it has transformed our spatial skills and perceptions. Foreman also humorously suggests getting lost intentionally to boost our geographical instincts, pushing back against the blue dot dependency.

In this engaging discussion, Alexei Zelensky, a Ukrainian drone developer and former frontline combatant, reveals his journey from soldier to innovator. He shares how fiber-optic spooled drones have transformed warfare in Ukraine, allowing for precise control despite jamming. Alexei recounts his experiences in combat, his recovery, and foray into 3D printing drones. They also explore the environmental impact of discarded cables and Alexei's hopes for using drones in civilian life post-war.