

Secretly Incredibly Fascinating
Alex Schmidt
A weekly podcast about the history, science, lore and surprises that make everyday things secretly incredibly fascinating. Hosted by comedy writer, emoji creator, and ‘Jeopardy!‘ champion Alex Schmidt. Join Alex & his co-host Katie Goldin for a joyful deep dive into seeing the world a whole new way! (For research sources, bonus episodes, and how you can support the podcast, visit sifpod.fun.)
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 10, 2025 • 1h 1min
Six Degrees Of Kevin Bacon
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why "six degrees of Kevin Bacon" is secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

Mar 3, 2025 • 1h 5min
Esperanto
Dive into the intriguing world of Esperanto, where aspirations for universal communication clash with linguistic reality. Discover the impressive reach of the Esperanto Wikipedia, showcasing a thriving community. Learn about the visionary L. L. Zamenhof and how his creation sought to unite diverse cultures. Explore the unexpected role of Esperanto in resisting oppressive regimes and the whimsical anecdotes surrounding language learning. This conversation is filled with humor and insightful reflections on the quest for a language that promotes unity and connection.

Feb 24, 2025 • 1h 4min
Pangolins
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why pangolins are secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

Feb 17, 2025 • 1h 7min
The Cool S
Join Sequoia Holmes, host of the celebrated podcast Black People Love Paramore, as she dives into the nostalgic world of 'the cool S.' The discussion uncovers the symbol's origins in 1970s graffiti culture and its whimsical connections to pop icons like Frank Sinatra. With a humorous take on creativity and identity, they explore why this seemingly simple doodle resonates with those born between 1980 and 2000. The episode is a delightful blend of personal anecdotes, social commentary, and artistic exploration.

Feb 10, 2025 • 2min
programming note: no new episode this week, so Alex can recuperate
Programming note: Alex got sick and is resting up. No SIF episode this week. New SIF episode next week. And thanks for your kind patience.

6 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 1h 9min
Accordions
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why accordions are secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

Jan 27, 2025 • 1h 10min
Nighthawks (1942)
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why the painting "Nighthawks" by Edward Hopper is secretly incredibly fascinating. (Here's a direct link to see the painting: https://www.artic.edu/artworks/111628/nighthawks)Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

22 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 5min
Cheddar Cheese
Alex Schmidt, Katie Goldin, and special guest Ben Partridge explore why cheddar cheese is secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5

Jan 13, 2025 • 1h 7min
Computer Mice
Dive into the quirky origins of the computer mouse, initially funded by NASA during the space race. Discover how mice evolved from clunky ball designs to sleek optical versions, intertwined with fascinating anecdotes. Explore the pace of pro gamers hitting up to 500 actions per minute and the peculiarities of mouse-clicking strategies. Reflect on gender dynamics in tech and the social shifts surrounding this iconic device. With humor and insightful commentary, the podcast uncovers the unexpected significance of everyday tech.

Jan 6, 2025 • 1h 7min
Road Atlases
Alex Schmidt and Katie Goldin explore why road atlases are secretly incredibly fascinating.Visit http://sifpod.fun/ for research sources and for this week's bonus episode.Come hang out with us on the SIF Discord: https://discord.gg/wbR96nsGg5


