Stuff You Should Know

Roman Mars, the host of the popular podcast 99% Invisible, dives into the fascinating world of TED Talks. He discusses their evolution from a small gathering to a global phenomenon, fueled by the rise of YouTube. Mars shares insights on the meticulous preparation and storytelling required for impactful talks, emphasizing the importance of audience connection. He also reflects on his own TED Talk about flag design, revealing the emotional challenges and triumphs of speaking in front of an audience. Tune in for an engaging blend of creativity and candid reflections!

America is named after Amerigo Vespucci, right? Maybe not. And who named Australia? Find out the unusually uncertain origins of the continents and other interesting stuff in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans have been wearing makeup for a few thousand years now and yet, here in the US the chemicals used in them are still not understood and not really regulated. Delve into the history of makeup and the psychology and feminist theory around it. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Explore bizarre cases of mass hysteria in medieval convents, the Halifax slasher incident, and laughter and fainting epidemics. The hosts also engage in lighthearted banter, discuss a movie scene, and include listener messages.

Since the Supreme Court ruled in 2010 in the Citizens United case that political contributions are speech and should be protected, the floodgates of anonymous political contributions have opened. But does absolute funding corrupt absolutely? Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Each year hundreds of dogs haul humans in sleds as part of the 1,100 plus mile Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. It's grueling and not without controversy but one thing is for sure, these are some amazing dogs. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not too long ago, people would pay money to gawk and stare at a performer with a physical disformity. They were called freakshows and they began in large part thanks to P.T. Barnum, whose circus we still enjoy today. Sounds awful, but some of these performers became rich folks as a result. Exploitive? You decide. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

El Nino may mean "the little boy" or "Christ Child" in Spanish, but this weather phenomenon really means crazy things for Planet Earth. We're talking rain where it's typically dry and drought where it's usually wet. Learn why today. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes things - like dentures, airplanes or even people - go missing. And when they never turn up again they become enduring, and engrossing, mysteries. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this enlightening discussion, Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and a prominent philanthropist, dives into the future of renewable energy. He emphasizes the urgent need for innovations like artificial photosynthesis to combat climate change. The talk also covers the potential of solar and wind energy, advancements in battery technology, and the necessity of a national power grid. Gates highlights global collaboration to support low-income economies in their energy transitions, underscoring the critical importance of sustainability for our planet's health.