Stuff Mom Never Told You

A Politics-Free Abortion Podcast

07 Mar 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Abortions are tremendously controversial -- but how do they actually work? In this episode, Cristen and Molly cut past the politics to give you the fa...

Inside the Minds of Hoarders with Dr. Rebecca Beaton

02 Mar 2011

Contributed by Lukas

According to the Mayo clinic, hoarding is an excessive collection of items along with the inability to discard them. But what exactly makes a person a...

SMNTY's 2nd Annual Oscar After Party

28 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Following up on last year's episode, Cristen and Molly take a look at the female directors, actors and other professionals contending for an Academy A...

Arrr there female pirates?

23 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

When people think of pirates, their minds often turn to legendary brigands such as Bluebeard -- but piracy wasn't restricted to males. Join Molly and ...

What's the buzz on vibrators?

21 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

According to a recent study, around half of American adults use a vibrator on a regular basis -- yet the devices remain controversial. In this episode...

Do women run colder than men?

16 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Women tend to have warmer core temperatures than men -- but why? In this episode, Molly and Cristen examine the science behind this mysterious discrep...

Where did the kiss come from?

14 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The first image of a kiss dates back to ancient India -- but where did the concept of kissing originate? More importantly, why do we do it today? Tune...

What's your sign, baby?

09 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Inspired by an article about recent changes to the zodiac, Cristen and Molly examine the use of horoscopes in modern society. Tune in to learn more ab...

Where do hot flashes come from?

07 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The hot flash is one of the most infamous symbols of menopause, and it's no laughing matter. But what exactly is a hot flash, and what causes it? In t...

Are corsets all that bad?

02 Feb 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Throughout history, opinions of corsets have fluctuated. Some have called the corset the Western version of foot binding, while others think the corse...

Do men and women dream differently?

31 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

The results are in: It appears that men and women tend to report different types of dreams more frequently than others. But what do these results mean...

What is objectum sexuality?

26 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Is it possible to become romantically involved with sound equipment, monuments or other objects? Yes, actually. In this episode, Cristen and Molly exp...

Do men lie more than women?

24 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Lies are a surprisingly prevalent part of human society, and deception serves a certain social purpose. But does a person's gender determine how much ...

Do men and women surf the web differently?

19 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

What do you look for when you browse online? Do you think that you might approach the web differently if you had a different gender? Listen in as Cris...

Let's Rewrite the Book on Librarians

17 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Over the years pop culture has created several stereotypes of librarians, creating an image of bespectacled spinsters. How do these stereotypes compar...

Can you have an orgasm during childbirth?

12 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

20/20 aired a documentary about the orgasmic experiences some women have while giving birth. But how does it happen, and why? Join Molly and Cristen a...

Do men and women donate money differently?

10 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Everyone wants to make the world a better place -- but do men and women go about it differently? In this episode, Molly and Cristen take a closer look...

Is the seven-year itch real?

05 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

Could it be true that monogamous couples get an urge to cheat approximately every seven years? In this episode, Molly and Cristen explore the origin o...

200th Episode Extravaganza

03 Jan 2011

Contributed by Lukas

It's official: Stuff Mom Never Told You has hit the 200-episode mark! To celebrate this momentous occasion, Molly and Cristen give listeners a behind-...

The Thick and Thin of Eyebrows

29 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

These days, it's very common for women to shape their eyebrows as part of their beauty regimen, but when did this practice start? And why? Molly and C...

What's the child-free movement?

28 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen take a closer look at the child-free movement. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwor...

Is it better to give than receive?

22 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Gift-giving is a common human tradition, especially around holidays and birthdays. But who benefits most: the giver, or the receiver? In this episode,...

What is the morning-after pill?

20 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The morning-after pill is a controversial form of emergency contraception that's often misunderstood. In this listener-inspired episode, Molly and Cri...

Does the G-spot exist?

15 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

These days, the Grafenberg spot, or G-spot, is a heated topic. Does this vaginal pleasure spot really exist? Do all women have one? Molly and Cristen ...

Are there no good female playwrights?

13 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In general, female playwrights are less likely to have their plays produced than their male counterparts. But why? In this episode, Molly and Cristen ...

Why do so many women have TMJ?

08 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Temporomandibular joint disorder is a term for various disorders that affect the jaw and seem to affect more women than men. In this episode, Molly an...

Why do women feel so guilty about nannies?

06 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Today's professional women sometimes rely on nannies to help them out in the domestic sphere, yet many of them seem to feel guilty about it. Why? In t...

Are humans meant to be monogamous?

01 Dec 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Monogamy is often touted as the cultural ideal for human partners, but are we really cut out for it? Molly and Cristen take a look at social and sexua...

Can you get rid of cellulite?

29 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

We all know what cellulite is, but have you ever wondered where that dreaded dimpled skin comes from? And why it affects women more than men? In this ...

Female Superheroes, Part Two

24 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In part two of their series, Molly and Cristen take a look at some famous female superheroes, starting with the most iconic female comic book characte...

Female Superheroes, Part One

22 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In comic books, females are often portrayed as victims and sex symbols and tend to play second fiddle to male characters. In this episode, Molly and C...

Are women drinking more?

17 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Some studies have found that the number of women who identify as heavy drinkers has risen, while the number of light drinkers has declined. Male drink...

Why do girls love horses?

15 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Little girls and women seem to have an affinity for horses. But why? In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss a variety of theories about why girls ...

Do sisters make you happier?

10 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Multiple studies indicate that people with sisters seem to be happier than people with brothers -- but what does this mean, and could it be true? Join...

Inside the Minds of Lady Killers with Candice DeLong

08 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Are female killers different from male killers? What motivates women to murder? In this episode, Molly and Cristen interview former FBI criminal profi...

A History of Home Ec

03 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen explore the surprisingly feminist origins and history of Home Economics, an academic discipline that's often referr...

What is asexuality?

01 Nov 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Although asexuality in other organisms is well-understood, human asexuality is more of a mystery to us. Is asexuality a disorder, or an orientation? M...

Sexy Halloween Costumes, Why?

27 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

These days, "sexy" female costumes for women are all the rage, but has this trend gone too far? And is it demeaning to women or empowering? In this Ha...

Motorcycles: Not Just for Boys

25 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Today the number of female motorcyclists is increasing, but it's not the first time in history that women have driven motorcycles. In this episode, Mo...

When did women start shaving their legs?

20 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

These days, many women shave their legs on a regular basis and don't give it a second thought. But where did this shaving trend originate? It all star...

Why do adults still get acne?

18 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Acne is typically associated with teenagers and puberty, but unfortunately, it doesn't always go away with age. In this episode, Molly and Cristen tal...

Why do women carry handbags?

13 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

These days, a majority of modern women carry a handbag of some sort. Why are purses so popular with women? And why are they so expensive? In this epis...

Why do women smell like onions and men like cheese?

11 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

When it comes to body odor, we all smell a little different. But are there distinct gender differences? In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss how...

Do gal pals sync up periods?

06 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

There's a commonly held belief that women's periods synchronize when they spend a lot of time together. This popular theory has a scientific basis, bu...

5 Iconic Cosmetics

04 Oct 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen list five of the most iconic cosmetics in the history of modern makeup. Learn more about your ad-choices at https:...

Why is Scandinavia so great for women?

29 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Scandinavian countries are reportedly tops when it comes to gender equality. Why? In this episode, Molly and Cristen examine the factors that contribu...

A Tribute to our Favorite Dolls, Non-Barbie Edition

27 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as they pay tribute to three beloved (non-Barbie) dolls from their childhood...

Does celibacy have any health benefits?

22 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

A recent trend has seen young people -- especially women -- choosing to be celibate for non-religious reasons. But why? In this episode, Molly and Cri...

Should chivalry die?

20 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Chivalry was originally the code of behavior for medieval knights; today, the term is synonymous with courteous male behavior towards women. But is mo...

Do men lose weight faster than women?

15 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

When it comes to shedding pounds, men have an advantage: They lose weight faster and more easily than women do. Why? In this episode, Molly and Criste...

What is ecofeminism?

13 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Ecofeminism is a movement that combines feminist and ecological concerns. In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss the history, goals, movements, co...

Are female magicians an illusion?

08 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Historically, most stage magicians have been men -- and there's still a gender imbalance in the profession today. Why? What's the deal with women and ...

Why don't boys play the harp?

06 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Molly and Cristen examine the gendering of musical instruments, from the lack of male harpists to the gender politics of lutes, in this episode. Lear...

Do smart men have better sperm?

01 Sep 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Some recent studies have suggested a positive correlation between semen quality and intelligence. But do smart men really have better sperm? In this e...

Seven Signs of Subliminal Ovulation

30 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Other mammals signal that they're fertile in obvious ways, but human females seem to advertise in more subtle ways. In this episode, Molly and Cristen...

To diaper or not to diaper?

25 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Diapers would seem to be an indispensable necessity for new babies, but some people argue that they're wasteful and unnecessary. In this episode, Moll...

This is Your Brain on a Breakup

23 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss why breaking up with romantic partners is universally painful -- and offer some consolation to sufferers --...

Do pretty people make more money?

18 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen talk about the "beauty premium" and how physical attractiveness can be advantageous (and lucrative) in the workplac...

What is polycystic ovary syndrome?

16 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a metabolic disorder that creates hormone imbalances in women's bodies. Molly and Cristen discuss PCOS research, definiti...

Are men attracted to small feet?

11 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

According to stereotypes, men find women with small feet more attractive than large-footed ladies. Is there any science to back up that claim? Molly a...

Who are the Guerrilla Girls?

09 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Guerrilla Girls is a group of female artists/activists whose mission is to expose discrimination in the art world. In this episode, Molly and Cristen ...

What is a rape kit?

04 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Rapes kits are used to collect forensic evidence from rape victims. In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss the contents of rape kits, rape kit tes...

Are long-distance relationships doomed?

02 Aug 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Conventional wisdom would suggest that long-distance relationships are doomed to failure, but is that actually the case? Molly and Cristen sift throug...

Does size matter?

28 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Statistical evidence suggests that men are very preoccupied with the size of their penises. But should they be? In this episode, Molly and Cristen exa...

Do men and women cook differently?

26 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Traditionally, cooking has been considered a female task. Yet in the professional realm, men predominate. Why? Do men and women cook food differently?...

How has Title IX evolved?

21 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Although Title IX is now associated with its impact on female athletics in educational arenas, the woman who spurred the law's passage had a different...

Why did Chinese women bind their feet?

19 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Foot binding is an ancient Chinese practice that was popular for centuries before it was outlawed in 1912. Molly and Cristen take a closer look at thi...

Why do men propose?

14 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In most modern cultures, it's traditional for men to propose marriage to women. But where did this tradition come from? Should women propose to men? M...

Why are bad boys appealing?

12 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

According to anecdotal evidence and some studies, women are often attracted to "bad boys" -- risk-taking, narcissistic types. Molly and Cristen discus...

What's it like to have a baby in the NICU?

07 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen explore how babies are cared for at a neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU, and share tips for parents with childr...

Condoms, Condoms, Condoms!

05 Jul 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Condoms have a surprisingly long and storied history, as well as lots of fun nicknames! Molly and Cristen take a detailed look at these popular prophy...

Can you die of a broken heart?

30 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Someone who is suffering from emotional stress and pain is said to have a "broken heart," but only in a metaphorical sense. Sometimes, however, the da...

The Sobering History of Women Bartending

28 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Today female bartenders are common across America -- but this wasn't always the case. Join Molly and Cristen as they explore the history of women bart...

Should you consider a prenup?

23 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Prenuptial agreements aren't just the province of celebrities and wealthy people. In this episode, Molly and Cristen take a critical look at prenups a...

Should women own guns?

21 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Gun ownership is most often associated with men, but should women own guns for personal safety? Is gun ownership a feminist issue, or a marketing ploy...

Is there a female equivalent to a bachelor?

16 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The term "bachelor" is commonly applied to single men, but is there a satisfactory female equivalent? Molly and Cristen discuss various terms that hav...

Do men go through menopause?

14 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Doctors have identified a condition called andropause that affects middle-aged men's moods and hormone levels. It's sometimes referred to as "male men...

Where are the women of Wall Street?

09 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

If there were more women on Wall Street, would the financial crisis have happened? Are women more suited to the world of finance than men, or less? Mo...

Can educating girls save Guatemala?

07 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Inspired by the Stuff You Should Know guys' recent podcasts on Cooperative for Education and breaking the cycle of poverty in Guatemala, Molly and Cri...

Can men and women really be friends?

02 Jun 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Popular culture would suggest that heterosexual men and women can't have purely platonic relationships, but is this claim really valid? Molly and Cris...

Is autism underdiagnosed in girls?

31 May 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Autistic spectrum disorders are typically associated with boys, a fact which may make it harder for girls with autism to be diagnosed properly. In thi...

Are men or women better drivers?

26 May 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, Molly and Cristen tackle one of the biggest gender stereotypes out there: Men are better drivers than women. Learn more about you...

Boob Politics: The Cleavage Issue

24 May 2010

Contributed by Lukas

There's been a lot of breast-related news lately, from a controversial bra ad to a popular Internet meme. What's the big deal about boobs? Molly and C...

What is male studies?

19 May 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Although men's studies is already an established academic discipline, a new discipline has recently emerged that aims to focus exclusively on the male...

The Not-So-Skimpy History of the Bikini

17 May 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Although they're ubiquitous on today's beaches, bikinis are a far cry from the modest, cumbersome swimming costumes women used to wear. Molly and Cris...

Are there feminist role models in children's literature?

12 May 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen talk about feminist role models in children's literature, specifically citing three beloved children's series as ex...

Who was Wilma Mankiller?

10 May 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Wilma Mankiller was the first female to be elected Chief of the Cherokee Nation. Molly and Cristen celebrate the life and accomplishments of Mankiller...

What does facial hair say about men?

05 May 2010

Contributed by Lukas

To some, facial hair simply represents a man's style or shaving preferences. But others argue that facial hair symbolizes masculinity. Molly and Crist...

Are political quotas bad for women?

03 May 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Some countries and political parties mandate quotas to help increase female representation in government. But do these quotas truly foster equality an...

Is there a female Viagra?

28 Apr 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Viagra effectively treats male sexual dysfunction, so could a similar drug be developed for women? Molly and Cristen discuss current research on a Via...

What is an Enneagram Personality Test?

26 Apr 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The Enneagram Personality Test evaluates a person's character based on nine different personality types and a geometric figure called an enneagram. Mo...

Is sex addiction real?

21 Apr 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Sex addiction is a term that's bandied about a lot these days, but is it really a disorder? Or just an excuse for cheating? Molly and Cristen examine ...

What do tattoos have to do with feminism?

19 Apr 2010

Contributed by Lukas

What do people think when they see a tattoo on a woman? What do tattoos have to do with feminism? The answers may surprise you. Tune in as Molly and C...

Are there female Freemasons?

14 Apr 2010

Contributed by Lukas

The Freemasons' secretive nature tends to provoke speculation and conspiracy theories, but Molly and Cristen are more interested in the group's gender...

Is androgyny the ideal gender identity?

12 Apr 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen talk about gender identity as it relates to social and psychological factors -- and whether androgyny is the ideal....

Why have Japanese condom sales dropped?

07 Apr 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen explore the Japanese subculture of "moe," which entails men forming romantic attachments to 2-D characters, and dis...

Are women really shopaholics?

05 Apr 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Molly and Cristen examine the stereotype that women love to shop and discuss what constitutes a "shopaholic" in this episode. Learn more about your a...

Is Munchausen Syndrome killing children?

31 Mar 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Munchausen syndrome is a severe type of factitious disorder, and the victims of this affliction purposely exaggerate or cause health problems. Learn m...

Should my parents pick out my spouse?

29 Mar 2010

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss arranged marriage, from its ancient origins in India to pros and cons of the practice. Learn more about yo...

Should I bank my baby's cord blood?

24 Mar 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Like placenta, the blood contained in the umbilical cord isn't always considered a waste product of birth. In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss ...