Stuff You Should Know

In an uncertain economy, investors often flock to commodities like oil, trading oil futures in a derivative market. Some believe this creates an artificially high price. Join Josh and Chuck and learn if this market is responsible for inflating gas prices. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pop quiz: What word denotes a nation of people, a last name and an occupation? If you guessed 'Sherpa,' then congratulations: You're correct. But what exactly is a Sherpa? Tune in and learn more as Chuck and Josh explore the culture of the Sherpa people. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Josh and Chuck ditch the studio and head west -- south by southwest, in fact -- to record a live podcast in Austin, Texas. Tune in and learn more Stuff You Should Know about SXSW and UFOs. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Igloos were traditionally used by Inuit Indians as temporary shelter while on hunting and fishing trips. In this episode, Josh and Chuck look at the design of igloos, from their impressive heat-catching properties to their ingenious construction. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Due to a condition known as Thomsen's disease, the muscles of fainting goats tense up whenever the animal is startled. In this episode, Josh and Chuck break down the science behind this bizarre condition. Tune in and learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover the fascinating science behind nuclear meltdowns and the ongoing crisis in Japan. Learn about the complexities of nuclear reactor risks, including the dangers of radiation leaks and cooling system failures. Explore the critical role of iodide in protecting against radiation and the societal impacts of misinformation. Delve into the challenges of aging nuclear infrastructure and the implications for public safety. Plus, gain insights into the importance of community support in navigating these scientific disasters.

Dive into the world of freeganism, where scavenging replaces traditional consumerism. Discover the origins of the term 'Dumpster' and explore the fascinating philosophy behind choosing a life of reclamation. The hosts discuss the staggering scale of food waste in the U.S. and the environmental impacts, along with urban foraging legalities. Learn about safety in foraging, communal practices, and hear an inspiring story of a freegan's lifestyle in Tasmania. From gleaning traditions to modern solutions, it's a thought-provoking exploration of living outside conventional norms.

A mummy is a human being whose soft tissue has been preserved after death, and there are mummies around the world -- including natural mummies, as well as corpses that have been intentionally embalmed. Join Chuck and Josh to learn more.. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a controversial idea, to say the least: If evidence shows that addicts tend to be irresponsible, abusive parents, then why should they have children at all? In this podcast, Josh and Chuck explore the practice (and legality) of sterilizing addicts. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cults are conventionally understood to be unestablished, non-mainstream religious groups that follow a single leader. So what does it take to be the leader? Tune in as Josh and Chuck take a closer look at cults. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.