

Endless Thread
WBUR
Hosts Ben Brock Johnson and Amory Sivertson dig into the internet's vast and curious ecosystem of online communities to find untold histories, unsolved mysteries, and other jaw-dropping stories online and IRL.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 12, 2024 • 36min
'I think I could just fend one off': Can TikTok teach you how to fight a shark?
Exploring the world of SharkTok on TikTok, debunking unconventional shark defense techniques, interviewing content creators like Kaley Grant who promote shark education, delving into Ocean Ramsey's encounters with sharks, analyzing shark behavior and conservation efforts, and discussing the impact of social media on public perception of sharks.

Jul 5, 2024 • 33min
Introducing Outside/In: 'The papyrus and the volcano'
An ancient Roman villa with papyrus scrolls discovered in 1750, blackened by Mount Vesuvius eruption. Scientists using technology like particle accelerators and AI to read the scrolls after failed attempts. Collaboration in academia through a unique contest. Emotional journey in a cold case murder investigation. AI models deciphering ancient Greek texts, highlighting competition and breakthroughs. Lively international community on a Discord, contributing to decoding ancient scrolls.

Jun 27, 2024 • 38min
This is not a pyramid scheme: Is 'master resell rights' the new MLM?
Explore the rise of 'master resell rights' as an alternative to MLMs, delving into its lack of official sources and potential legal issues. Unpack the psychology behind MLM schemes, targeting women with promises of financial success. Navigate the complexities of the Master Resell Rights industry, exploring ethical dilemmas and financial motivations.

Jun 21, 2024 • 35min
Episodes We Love: Worm Wars
Join as the host uncovers the viral TikTok sensation of the toxic hammerhead worm, reflects on parallels between invasive species and immigrants, and discusses the subjective nature of 'invasive'. Dive into a retired truck driver's worm dilemma, the invasion of jumping worms, and the aftermath of 'Worm Wars' emphasizing boot cleaning.

Jun 14, 2024 • 28min
Looking for a man in finance and finding a record deal: How memes become pop hits
From a TikTok video to a record deal, the podcast dives into the world of meme-pop music history. It explores the evolution of music memes like 'Hamster Dance' and 'Numa Numa', highlighting the impact of internet culture on mainstream music. The episode also covers the success of 'Old Town Road' by Lil Nas X and the influence of TikTok on independent artists.

Jun 7, 2024 • 39min
Scamming the scammers
Discover how scambaiters are taking on fraud schemes, including fake Border Patrol agents scamming victims. Explore the tactics used to outsmart scammers and the creation of chatbots to disrupt their operations. Unveil the world of online scams and the community behind scam baiting to protect potential victims.

May 31, 2024 • 22min
SwordTube (yes, that's a thing) has a problem with hateful crusaders
Learn about the rise of sword influencers on YouTube delving into historic European martial arts. Discover the drama and conflicts within the online sword fighting community, including discussions about bigotry and inclusivity. Explore the transition of SwordTube to controversial topics like racism and homophobia and the impact on the sword community channels.

May 24, 2024 • 31min
Gen Z is using TikTok and fast-acting tools to push for progressive change
Gen Z for Change, a youth-led nonprofit, is using TikTok to mobilize political action. They have innovative tools like 'Ceasefire Now!!' sending 2M emails daily for Gaza ceasefire. Explore how Gen Z activists flood job listings and challenge tip lines for positive change.

May 17, 2024 • 23min
Catfish for dinner: The real story behind a viral dating TikTok
Taylor Paré, who uncovered a new internet scam targeting singles, shares her experience of being stood up on a date and the surprising twist involving a NYC restaurant. The podcast investigates the dark world of catfishing, the fallout of a TikTok video spreading the truth, and the impact of misinformation in online dating.

May 10, 2024 • 40min
Will virtual reality ever become a daily reality?
Diving into the meme-ability of Apple's $3,500 VR headset and its unexpected viral success, exploring the evolution and future potential of VR technology beyond gaming, discussing challenges and limitations of current headsets, and envisioning a future where VR integrates into daily life with a touch of humor.


