Stuff They Don't Want You To Know

Explore the eerie world of poltergeists, from the origins of the term to their chaotic antics in pop culture. Discover global folklore and the striking similarities in supernatural legends across cultures. Delve into famous cases like the Bell Witch and Esther Cox, questioning authenticity and possible explanations. Uncover the sociological dynamics of reports, including the role of children and trauma. Finally, ponder scientific skepticism and the intriguing studies linking brain activity to feelings of ghostly presence.

Just back from a break, the hosts dive into the controversial National Endowment for Democracy. They explore its quasi-governmental nature and its troubling comparisons to the CIA. From its Cold War origins to modern-day accusations of astroturfing, the conversation reveals the complexities of how NED influences foreign affairs. Global reactions range from bans in Russia and China to debates in the US Congress. The intriguing debate on whether NED promotes democracy or just instigates chaos adds an unexpected twist.

Tim Livingston, a sports journalist and creator of the Whistleblower podcast, delves into the shocking gambling scandal involving NBA referee Tim Donaghy. He discusses the pervasive corruption in the NBA, revealing how referees can significantly influence games and betting odds. Tim connects officiating to organized crime, highlighting claims of referees being on a mob payroll. He also explores the necessary reforms for officiating to ensure transparency and accountability in the league.

The podcast dives into the chilling case of two missing girls in Milwaukee, exploring the failures of local police to issue an Amber Alert. As a frustrated community takes matters into their own hands, tensions rise between civilians and law enforcement. Accounts reveal a chaotic scene outside a suspected duplex, leading to fires and gunfire. The discussion raises questions about police handling of missing persons and past trafficking reports. Unanswered questions linger as local narratives clash, leaving the community in a state of distrust and frustration.

Discover the chilling mystery behind an unexplained sound in Nunavut's seafloor. Teams of hunters and migratory animals have been spooked, prompting government inquiries that lead to more unanswered questions. Exploration of intriguing theories links the ping to mining operations, submarines, and even cryptids. Experts weigh in, suggesting ice cracking might be a source. Ultimately, the discussion shifts to the impact of climate change and its pivotal role in the ecological shifts happening in the region.

Could dreams really predict the future? The hosts explore historical anecdotes of precognitive dreams, including references to Lincoln and Twain. They delve into retrocausality and its implications for how future events could influence the past. Concepts like quantum entanglement and the observer effect are discussed, raising questions about consciousness and cognition. Ultimately, while science hints at possibilities, the proof remains elusive. Listeners are encouraged to share their own precognitive experiences, blurring the line between skepticism and belief.

The mystery of dreams takes center stage as hosts explore their historical and evolutionary significance. Recurring dreams linked to stress and creativity provide intriguing personal insights. They delve into REM sleep and the brain’s areas involved in dreaming, revealing how internal logic governs dream narratives. Lucid dreaming is spotlighted as a tool for creativity, while discussions on dreams as early warning signs for diseases raise eyebrows. Skepticism surfaces with notions of coincidence and memory reshaping, alongside captivating anecdotes of historical figures and their prophetic dreams.

Explore the mysteries of the ocean and the possibility of living sea monsters. Dive deep into ocean zones and the challenges of mapping the seafloor. Discover how ancient sailor tales link to real creatures and the origins of myths like the Kraken and Leviathan. Delve into the enigmatic giant squid and other colossal marine life. The hosts ponder the potential of undiscovered species and the implications of hidden life in the abyss, questioning if some creatures are waiting to be found—or hiding from us.

Dive into the fascinating world of faith healing and the practice of laying on hands. The hosts explore its historical roots across various cultures, from Christian traditions to Navajo rituals. Learn about the psychological effects of touch, including the role of oxytocin and the placebo effect. They also discuss the fine line between genuine healing and exploitation by fraudsters. The conversation highlights the enduring allure of faith healing, especially in times of need, and questions the intersection of science and spirituality.

Dive into the mysterious world of auras—intangible energies perceived from people and objects. Explore historical roots, from ancient beliefs to modern New Age interpretations. Discover Kirlian photography's striking images and how they challenge spiritual claims. Skepticism remains regarding reproducibility and the role of genetics in suggestibility. Hear about fascinating individual perceptions, including synesthesia and the faint bioluminescence humans emit. Can science and personal experiences coexist in the realm of auras?