

Stuff You Should Know
iHeartPodcasts
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Episodes
Mentioned books

5 snips
Mar 20, 2024 • 12min
Short Stuff: Mariko Aoki Phenomenon
Ever wondered why some people feel the urge to poop when they walk into a bookstore? This quirky phenomenon, named after Mariko Aoki, captures the baffling connection between reading environments and restroom needs. Discover hilarious personal stories and insights into the psychological factors at play. Is it the soothing atmosphere or just the coffee? Dive into the humor and mysteries behind this curiosity that affects ten percent of visitors.

Mar 19, 2024 • 45min
Peanuts (the comic) Part I
Dive into the world of Peanuts as the hosts celebrate Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the gang. They discuss the comic strip's enduring legacy and how Vince Giraldi's jazz soundtrack adds a unique charm. Delve into Charles Schulz's early inspirations and personal struggles that shaped his career. Discover the minimalist style of Peanuts and the relatable complexities of iconic characters like Linus and Lucy. The emotional resonance of Linus’s security blanket is also explored, highlighting its significance in childhood.

36 snips
Mar 16, 2024 • 43min
Selects: How Dyslexia Works
Dyslexia is more than a buzzword; it’s a complex learning disability often misunderstood. Explore its neurobiological roots and the societal myths that misrepresent it. The historical journey reveals how perceptions have evolved, highlighting the distinction between intelligence and learning differences. Personal stories and modern advancements showcase coping strategies that empower those with dyslexia. Listeners also dive into nostalgic memories from the 70s, blending serious discussions with light-hearted reflections.

Mar 14, 2024 • 51min
The Alien Abduction Phenomenon of the Mid-20th Century
Journey back to the 1960s with Betty and Barney Hill, whose alien abduction sparked a national phenomenon. The discussion dives into how societal influences shaped abduction narratives, along with the psychological impact on those who claim to have been taken. Explore the evolution of alien imagery in pop culture and how shows like 'The X-Files' brought these tales to life. The episode also touches on skepticism within the scholarly community, contrasting experiences of contactees and abductees, while unearthing the cultural roots of extraterrestrial encounters.

21 snips
Mar 13, 2024 • 12min
Short Stuff: Skittles and TIO2
Discover the legal battles surrounding Skittles and the controversial ingredient titanium dioxide. Learn about the health concerns tied to its use and the potential risks of nanoparticles in candy. The discussion probes the regulatory landscape and questions why this additive is still used in popular foods. Plus, get a glimpse into classic and modern music, illustrated through analyses of impactful songs. It's a colorful blend of food science, consumer safety, and cultural significance!

13 snips
Mar 12, 2024 • 49min
Leave Brutalism Alone!
Dive into the misunderstood world of brutalist architecture, where stark concrete becomes a symbol of cultural significance. Discover how ancient Mayan temples relate to modern brutalist designs and the challenges these structures face today. The hosts tackle misconceptions and explore the artistry involved in this architectural style. They also discuss the recent resurgence of appreciation for brutalism, sharing humorous anecdotes along the way. Plus, a peek into the evolving landscape of social media for kids adds a contemporary twist!

22 snips
Mar 9, 2024 • 51min
Selects: The Science of Break-Ups
Breaking up feels like getting over an addiction! This discussion dives into the emotional chaos that accompanies relationship endings. Analyze how societal trends shape breakups, and discover the unique experiences of initiators versus those left behind. Lighthearted banter reveals communication style differences between genders. Explore the psychological impact of breakups on identity and mental health, while uncovering coping strategies for recovery. Get ready for trivia and laughter mixed with insights into navigating post-relationship friendships!

Mar 7, 2024 • 41min
The Smiley, Stubborn Llama
Discover the quirky charm of llamas, from their joyful smiles to their stubborn antics. Hear about their impressive agility and historical role as pack animals for the Incas. Dive into their unique social behaviors and biological traits, along with the fascinating potential of llama antibodies in medical research. Enjoy a delightful blend of nostalgic stories, humorous anecdotes, and even a bit on their cultural significance in children's literature. Plus, a round-up of memorable moments and upcoming tours adds extra fun!

Mar 6, 2024 • 11min
Short Stuff: Roly Poly...Bugs?
Discover the quirky world of roly poly bugs, tiny crustaceans often mistaken for insects! Learn about their surprising adaptations, like breathing with gills and their unique defense mechanism of curling up. These garden champions contribute to composting and boast a remarkable ability to thrive in polluted environments. With a dash of humor, the hosts also link these little critters to heavy metal music, proving that even the smallest creatures can rock our gardens!

117 snips
Mar 5, 2024 • 46min
Multitasking: Working slower with worse results
Multitasking is a myth that hinders productivity, slowing you down and reducing the quality of your work. The brain's limitations in handling multiple tasks are revealed, debunking common misconceptions. It's shown that focusing on one task at a time enhances cognitive function and improves outcomes. Gender differences in multitasking skills are discussed, alongside the rise of technology-induced distractions. Also highlighted are the joys of reading and personal stories that foster nostalgia and connection.


