

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

Sep 29, 2022 • 53min
How The Rosenhan Experiment Worked
In 1973, a bold study revealed serious flaws in psychiatric practices. Participants pretending to be mentally ill gained admission, exposing biases in diagnoses. The anti-psychiatry movement is critiqued for its approach to dehumanization in treatment. The stigma attached to mental health labels continues to overshadow personal stories. The experiment's findings sparked debate over mental health care, revealing the complexities of labeling and the impact on patient treatment. Tune in for a mix of thought-provoking insights and engaging discussions.

Sep 28, 2022 • 10min
Short Stuff: Curse Tablets
Discover the fascinating history of curse tablets from ancient Rome and Greece, crafted for everything from vengeance to protection. Explore their rise in popularity and the intriguing materials used. Hear wild anecdotes about rivalries fueled by curses, whether in love, politics, or sports. The parallels to today's social media woes, especially Twitter, bring a humorous twist to these ancient grievances. Dive into the moral implications of wielding curses with a blend of humor and historical insight!

6 snips
Sep 27, 2022 • 44min
Vasectomies: Stop Being A Wimp
Vasectomies are less daunting than you think! The hosts humorously debunk myths about pain and recovery, revealing it’s a quick process with minimal downtime. They dive into the misconceptions surrounding male sterilization and explore the financial and biological aspects, including disparities in insurance coverage. Historical insights connect vasectomies to eugenics, adding a chilling twist. Expect laughter as they highlight the mental health connection and the increase in procedures during sports events. It's time for men to step up in sexual health!

35 snips
Sep 24, 2022 • 1h 17min
Selects: How LSD Works
Dive into the captivating story of LSD's discovery by Albert Hofman and its wild cultural journey. Celebrate Bicycle Day and explore the blend of history, science, and personal anecdotes. Discover the myths that surround this potent hallucinogen and the evolution from medical curiosity to cultural icon. Hear about groundbreaking research on its neurological impact and therapeutic potential, as well as the modern trend of microdosing. This vibrant conversation creatively interweaves humor with thought-provoking insights into the world of psychedelics.

Sep 22, 2022 • 37min
Sitcoms Part II
Dive into the rich history of sitcoms, celebrating their peak popularity from 'I Love Lucy' to the groundbreaking themes in 'Friends.' Discover how beloved shows reflect societal issues and foster empathy through relatable storytelling. Relive iconic moments that changed comedy forever and explore pivotal events that broke new ground in representation. Uncover the nuances of spinoffs and the clever ways shows have played with the Fourth Wall, all highlighting the timeless appeal and cultural significance of this cherished genre.

Sep 21, 2022 • 16min
Short Stuff: Laugh Tracks
Dive into the intriguing history of laugh tracks, invented by a controversial sound engineer in the 1950s. Discover how these curated bursts of laughter shaped iconic sitcoms and enhanced viewer engagement. Explore their nostalgic value, especially in classics like Scooby-Doo, and the debates they sparked between executives and audiences over the years. Finally, learn how the absence of laugh tracks alters humor perception and the creative ways they're being reimagined in modern media.

4 snips
Sep 20, 2022 • 31min
Sitcoms Part I
Dive into the vibrant world of sitcoms, where multi-camera formats reign supreme! Discover the genre's evolution from the 1950s to today, with beloved examples like 'Seinfeld' and 'The Simpsons.' Uncover the fascinating behind-the-scenes dynamics of set design and production that bring laughter to life. Learn about the pioneering days of sitcoms, the impact of 'I Love Lucy,' and the importance of live audience interaction. Plus, find out what makes syndication a crucial element in a show's success!

6 snips
Sep 17, 2022 • 48min
Selects: Frida Kahlo: Painter, Icon, Genius
Explore the extraordinary life of Frida Kahlo, a painter who became an icon, renowned for her emotional depth and vibrant self-expression. Discover her powerful legacy, which resonates with feminists and those confronting chronic pain. Delve into her tumultuous personal relationships and the influence of her husband, Diego Rivera. Uncover the themes of identity, loss, and heritage in her artwork, and learn how her work was revived, transforming how she is perceived and celebrated in contemporary culture.

4 snips
Sep 15, 2022 • 50min
Pearls: Second Best Thing About Oysters
Dive into the fascinating world of pearls, exploring their rich history and cultural significance over 4,000 years. Discover how these gems are formed within mollusks and the allure of both natural and cultured varieties. Hear about innovative figures like Gaston Vives and the evolution of pearl farming. From their popularity during the Great Depression to modern distractions, pearls connect personal anecdotes with historical insights. Plus, engage with discussions on ethical pearl farming and the remarkable value of these gems throughout history.

Sep 14, 2022 • 12min
Short Stuff: Hangry?
Explore the intriguing phenomenon of being hangry! Delve into how low glucose levels can impact mood and self-control. The discussion highlights how hunger fuels aggression, especially in couple dynamics. Discover unique studies revealing the serious connection between brain chemistry and behavior. Get personal anecdotes that bring humor to the importance of self-awareness when hunger strikes. Unwrap the science behind your next snack attack!


