Stuff You Should Know

How Mercenaries Work

07 Jan 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Mercenaries are soldiers of fortune who fight in wars and conflicts for profit. Join Josh and Chuck as they explore the fascinating history of mercena...

How Noodling Works

05 Jan 2010

Contributed by Lukas

Noodling is a type of fishing in which the participant uses his or her hand in lieu of fishing gear and bait. Discover the origins and practices of th...

How Human Experimentation Works

31 Dec 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Human experimentation is an age-old practice, dating back to 4 BCE. Listen in as Josh and Chuck give you the low-down on the historic, grisly underbel...

How Pirates Work

29 Dec 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Although today's pirates aren't storming the coast of Florida or other eastern states, piracy is still around in this modern age. Join Josh and Chuck ...

How Christmas Worked

24 Dec 2009

Contributed by Lukas

On Christmas eve, Josh and Chuck decide to take that ineffable Stuff You Should Know approach to the celebration known as Christmas. Join the guys as ...

Do concussions cause early death?

22 Dec 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck discuss the origins and complications of concussions, injuries in which the brain comes into ...

How Kleptomania Works

17 Dec 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck discuss kleptomania, a disorder in which people have an overwhelming impulse to steal unneces...

How Narco States Work

15 Dec 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck discuss Narco States, places where illegal drugs are traded openly with government support --...

How the Hells Angels Work

10 Dec 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck discuss the notorious Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, more commonly referred to as the Hells An...

Will the Large Hadron Collider destroy the Earth?

08 Dec 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck discuss the Large Hadron Collider, from its purpose and origins to how likely it is to wipe o...

How Near-Death Experiences Work

03 Dec 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The concept of a near-death experience is well-known in popular culture, but we still don't know why these seemingly supernatural events occur. Josh a...

How Food Cravings Work

01 Dec 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Why do we crave certain foods? Does everyone experience food cravings? In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck explore the delicious ...

How Hostage Negotiation Works

26 Nov 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Josh and Chuck explain the finer points of hostage negotiation, including the symbolism of hostages, the negotiator's goals and tacti...

What is Mutual Assured Destruction?

24 Nov 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck discuss nuclear profliferation, nuclear parity and the Cold War strategic doctrine called Mut...

10 Odd Town Festivals

19 Nov 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The world is full of festivals, some of which are really odd. Tune in as Josh and Chuck take a playful look at ten unusual town festivals in this epis...

What's the deal with totem poles?

17 Nov 2009

Contributed by Lukas

If you've ever wondered where the expression "low man on the totem pole" comes from, this episode of Stuff You Should Know is a must-listen. Tune in a...

How Population Works

12 Nov 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Population may not seem like the most scintillating topic in the world, but Josh and Chuck beg to differ. Join them as they explore how population wor...

How will the future crime database work?

10 Nov 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The US and England have databases containing DNA from millions of citizens. Originally only criminals were included, but as the programs expanded many...

How Product Placement Works

05 Nov 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck take a look at the advertising practice of product placement, from its origins to different t...

Can you remember being born?

03 Nov 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Some people have memories of very early childhood, but how far back can you go? Is it possible to remember your own birth? Josh and Chuck are on the c...

The Real How Jack the Ripper Worked

29 Oct 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this Halloween episode, Josh and Chuck go way back to late 19th century London to examine the grisly details of the Jack the Ripper murders. They a...

How Witness Protection Works

27 Oct 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The Witness Protection Program, or the Witness Security Program, was established in 1970 to protect government witnesses before, during and after a tr...

How the Cannonball Run Worked

22 Oct 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The Cannon Ball Run is a cross-country car race famously portrayed in the campy 1981 movie "Cannon Ball Run." But it isn't fictional. Tune in as Josh ...

What is China's one-child policy?

20 Oct 2009

Contributed by Lukas

China's one-child policy, implemented in 1979, was designed to limit population growth. In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck exami...

What is a hangover, really?

15 Oct 2009

Contributed by Lukas

After a night of heavy boozing, many partygoers find themselves the victim of a hangover. But what exactly is a hangover, and what causes it? Join Chu...

How to Find the History of Your House

13 Oct 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wondered about the history of your house? In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck give listeners some pointers on determining th...

Who were the first Americans?

08 Oct 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Columbus is often touted as the "discoverer" of the Americas, he wasn't the first to set foot on American soil by a long shot. Tune in as Josh and Chu...

Health Care Systems Around the World

06 Oct 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this final installment of their 4-part suite on health care, Josh, Chuck and Molly take a tour of health care systems around the world, from France...

Is Bhutan on to something with Gross National Happiness?

01 Oct 2009

Contributed by Lukas

How do you measure happiness? How do you measure it on a national scale? Tune in as Josh and Chuck discuss Bhutan's Gross National Happiness index in ...

Rumors, Myths and Truths Behind Obama's Health Care Plan

29 Sep 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this third episode of Stuff You Should Know's health care reform series, Josh and Chuck -- and special guest Molly Edmonds -- sort through the myth...

Do zombies really exist?

24 Sep 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In movies and stories, zombies are undead menaces that lurch around mindlessly, in search of flesh -- and braaaaaains! Where did the idea for zombies ...

President Obama's Health Care Plan: Soup to Nuts

22 Sep 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In this special episode of Stuff You Should know, the second in a four-part series, Josh and Chuck -- and a special guest -- discuss President Obama's...

How do dogs perceive time?

17 Sep 2009

Contributed by Lukas

A dog that knows exactly when its owners will arrive home every day seems to have a human perception of time, but in fact, they perceive time very dif...

How Health Care in the United States Works Right Now

15 Sep 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The United States is abuzz with talk of health care reform, but why does the system need repairs in the first place? Josh and Chuck explore how the cu...

Could microlending develop the world?

10 Sep 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Microlending is a practice that provides funds for entrepreneurs in developing countries who couldn't normally get loans. Tune in as Josh and Chuck di...

What is geocaching?

08 Sep 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Armed with only a GPS and a sense of adventure, geocachers use their wits to locate containers across the world. Join Chuck and Josh as they explore t...

What is an Ig Nobel Prize?

03 Sep 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Each year, the Ig Nobel Prize is awarded to researchers for unusual -- and generally humorous -- contributions to science. Tune in as Josh and Chuck d...

Why is the U.S. so dependent on cars?

01 Sep 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Today, automobiles are undoubtedly the dominant form of transportation in the United States, but that wasn't always the case. Join Josh and Chuck as t...

How Muppets Work

27 Aug 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Jim Henson's Muppets, including the beloved Kermit the Frog, first came to life in the mid-1950s. Join Josh and Chuck as they explore the history and ...

How easy is it to steal a nuclear bomb?

25 Aug 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Nuclear weapons are extremely well guarded, so stealing one would be quite tricky. Join Josh and Chuck as they discuss nabbing nuclear weapons, and so...

Is the Necronomicon real?

20 Aug 2009

Contributed by Lukas

H.P. Lovecraft's strange, elaborate stories and mythologies have inspired a devoted following. Join Josh and Chuck -- and a special guest -- as they d...

What's sarcopenia and what can you do about it?

18 Aug 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Sarcopenia is a form of muscle loss and coordination associated with aging. Luckily, a little extra effort can prevent its onset. Tune in to learn mor...

Is fluoride making us stupid?

13 Aug 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Fluoride is a common additive in toothpaste and the water supply of some countries. It's purportedly good for dental health, but some evidence suggest...

What are Japanese stragglers?

11 Aug 2009

Contributed by Lukas

During World War II, Japanese soldiers adopted a version of the samurai code of honor. Fiercely commited to this ideology, some continued to fight eve...

What's up with competitive eating?

06 Aug 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Competitive eating is a modern "sport" that's very popular in the United States. Join Josh and Chuck as they delve into the fascinatingly gross world ...

How Agent Orange Worked

04 Aug 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Agent Orange was a potent herbicide used by the U.S. government during the Vietnam War. Learn more about the origins, use and devastating side effects...

How Whale Sharks Work

30 Jul 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Whale sharks are the biggest fish in the ocean. Tune in as Josh and Chuck discuss these gentle giants, and recount their experiences swimming with the...

What are tinnovators?

28 Jul 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Tinnovators are folks who come up with new and innovative ways to use old Altoids mint tins. Learn about some of these "tinnovators" and their art in ...

Three Gross Parasites

23 Jul 2009

Contributed by Lukas

There are some pretty disgusting parasites out there, but Josh and Chuck have settled on three particularly gross ones. Tune in to learn more about fl...

Are stupid people happier?

21 Jul 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Is there a negative correlation between happiness and intelligence? Is ignorance truly bliss? Josh and Chuck attempt to answer this age-old question b...

What is a body farm?

16 Jul 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Most farms host crops and animals, but body farms specialize in corpses. Join Josh and Chuck as they tackle the fascinatingly gross phenomenon of body...

How has toxoplasma turned the world into zombies?

14 Jul 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection that favors cats, but it can also be found in humans. Discover the disturbing details of how toxoplasma gondii ...

How Twinkies Work

09 Jul 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Twinkies have a reputation for being so processed that they can last for years and years, but they're not as hardy as you'd expect. Uncover the sweet ...

Is it possible to brainwash someone?

07 Jul 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Brainwashing is an extreme form of "thought reform," but does it actually work? Tune in to this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com to find out. Learn mor...

How can hypermiling save you gas?

02 Jul 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The EPA tests vehicles for maximum fuel efficiency, but those impressive estimates don't always pan out in real life. Hypermiling is one sure-fire way...

How Earthquakes Work

30 Jun 2009

Contributed by Lukas

What makes the earth quake? Join Josh and Chuck as they explore the science and history of earthquakes in this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com. Learn ...

How Body Dysmorphic Disorder Works

25 Jun 2009

Contributed by Lukas

People who suffer with body dysmorphic disorder have a distorted, unhealthy view of their bodies. Learn more about this compulsive disorder in the fol...

Can you control your dreams?

23 Jun 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In a lucid dream, the sleeper is aware that he or she is in a dream state. Does that mean you can control these dreams? Where did this concept come fr...

What exactly is the Peter Principle?

18 Jun 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The Peter Principle describes how workers who excel in bureaucratic systems are promoted until they reach their level of incompetence. Learn more abou...

Three Innovations We Need Right Now

16 Jun 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The world's problems necessitate innovative solutions. Listen in as Josh and Chuck propose some innovations, from teleportation to an international la...

How Carbon Capture and Storage Works

11 Jun 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Carbon capture and storage is a way to filter excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it. Tune in as Josh and Chuck discuss current method...

How did Nikola Tesla change the way we use energy?

09 Jun 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Many people associate Edison with the invention of electricity, but Nikola Tesla heavily shaped the electrical system we still use today. Get the dirt...

How Biohydrocarbons Work

04 Jun 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Hydrocarbons are simple compounds that help fuel the modern world, but they're not really a sustainable resource. Explore new energy solutions, starti...

What's a brownfield remediation project?

02 Jun 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The EPA defines a brownfield as land that is abandoned because redevelopment is complicated by possible environmental contamination. Tune in as Chuck ...

Is spontaneous human combustion real?

28 May 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Scientists have proven that spontaneous combustion, or burning without an external ignition source, can occur in some objects. But what about human be...

How Propaganda Works

26 May 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Propaganda, a persuasion tactic typically associated with deception, has been around for centuries. Explore the history of propaganda -- and learn how...

Do animals have a sixth sense?

21 May 2009

Contributed by Lukas

People have long believed that animals had mysterious powers of prediction. Do animals have a sixth sense? Is there any proof to back this belief up? ...

How Lobotomies Work

19 May 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Lobotomies -- brain surgeries to relieve psychiatric problems -- are rarely performed today, but they were once fairly common. Tune in to learn more a...

Is it better to buy local or organic food?

14 May 2009

Contributed by Lukas

These days, shopping for food can pose a dilemma. Should you buy regular, organic or local food? Check out this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com to hear...

What causes rigor mortis?

12 May 2009

Contributed by Lukas

If you've ever watched a crime drama, you know that bodies get stiff after death. But why? Explore the biochemistry behind rigor mortis in this podcas...

How can a lake explode?

07 May 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Lakes are usually tranquil bodies of water, but in rare instances, they can be deadly. Tune in to this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com to hear Josh and...

Why do humans have body hair?

05 May 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Humans aren't truly naked apes, but other primates put us to shame when it comes to body hair. Why? Tune in to hear Josh and Chuckle discuss the theor...

How do credit default swaps work?

30 Apr 2009

Contributed by Lukas

In theory, credit default swaps are simply insurance against failed investments. In reality, these swaps can quickly get complicated. Tune in to this ...

Is high fructose corn syrup bad for you?

28 Apr 2009

Contributed by Lukas

High fructose corn syrup gets a bad rap, but is it deserved? Tune in as Josh and Chuck discuss the origins of this ubiquitous sweetener -- and why it'...

How Face Transplants Work

23 Apr 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Believe it or not, scientists and doctors have discovered a way to transplant part -- or all -- of a face from one person to another. Tune in to this ...

How much money do I really need to live?

21 Apr 2009

Contributed by Lukas

How much money does a person or a family need to live? Josh and Chuck are curious to find out, too. Tune in to this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com to ...

Do toads cause warts?

16 Apr 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Toads have a reputation as wart-spreaders, but they're not actually to blame for the unsightly growths. Viruses are. Tune in to this podcast from HowS...

How Money Laundering Works

14 Apr 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Money laundering -- the practice of disguising illegal funds -- can be domestic or international in nature. Join Josh and Chuck as they take a look at...

How Ponzi Schemes Work

09 Apr 2009

Contributed by Lukas

There's been a lot in the news about Ponzi schemes lately. How do they work? And who's Ponzi? Check out this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com to discove...

How can some centenarians lead unhealthy lives?

07 Apr 2009

Contributed by Lukas

You'd think that centenarians -- people age 100 and older -- would owe their longevity to healthy habits, but that's not always the case. Tune in to t...

Bizarre Ways to Die

02 Apr 2009

Contributed by Lukas

When it comes to shucking this mortal coil, no two deaths are exactly alike -- and some are truly bizarre. Tune in to this podcast from HowStuffWorks....

Is the world going to end in 2012?

31 Mar 2009

Contributed by Lukas

According to the Mayan calendar, a new age will begin on December 21, 2012. Will this mean the end of the world, or just a transition? Tune in as Josh...

Are there dead bodies on Mount Everest?

26 Mar 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Every year, adventurers brave the elements and attempt to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Yet dangers abound, and more than a hundred bodies litter...

How Déjà Vu Works

24 Mar 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Does this episode seem strangely familiar? If so, you might be experiencing déjà vu, a topic that scientists are beginning to study seriously. Disco...

Can anger be a good thing?

19 Mar 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Anger gets a bad rap, but this unpopular emotion can actually be beneficial to us. Tune in to this podcast from HowStuffWorks.com to get Josh and Chuc...

What are microexpressions?

17 Mar 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Microexpressions are brief facial cues that reveal a person's true intentions. Listen in as Chuck and Josh discuss the subtle art of reading faces in ...

How Aphrodisiacs Work

12 Mar 2009

Contributed by Lukas

For thousands of years humankind has pursued the enhancement of sexual pleasure and performance through a plethora of medicines and practices -- but h...

Who owns the oceans?

10 Mar 2009

Contributed by Lukas

International waters cover 71% of the Earth's surface, and a separate set of laws and regulations govern human activity on the seas. But who actually ...

How Alien Hand Syndrome Works

05 Mar 2009

Contributed by Lukas

When a person has alien hand syndrome, his or her hand can move involuntarily, and seemingly of its own volition. Tune in and learn more about this mi...

Could a 'thinking cap' make me a genius?

03 Mar 2009

Contributed by Lukas

When Allan Snyder discovered that transcranial magnetic stimulation produces strange cognitive changes, he believed he'd stumbled upon a "creativity-a...

How Junk Mail Works

26 Feb 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Almost no one likes junk mail. It's seen as wasteful, unproductive and -- potentially -- harmful. Listen in as Josh and Chuck take a closer look at th...

Can people really die of fright?

24 Feb 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Can a human being be scared to the point of sudden death? Listen in as Chuck and Josh explore the physiological possibilities behind dying of fright i...

How Going Over Niagara Works

19 Feb 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Since 1901, about 16 adventurous souls have gone over the falls in search of fame, usually in a barrel or sphere. Tune in as our resident experts take...

How Squatting Works

17 Feb 2009

Contributed by Lukas

The practice of squatting is usually defined as camping on unused land or moving into an abandoned structure -- and it's more common than you might th...

How Friday the 13th Works

12 Feb 2009

Contributed by Lukas

What is it about Friday the 13th that gives us the collective willies? Discover the surprising roots of this common superstition -- and what paraskevi...

How long can you go without food and water?

10 Feb 2009

Contributed by Lukas

When it comes to survival, food and water are pretty much non-negotiable. How long can you go without them? What happens to your body when you cross t...

Why is it so hard to say "toy boat" three times fast?

05 Feb 2009

Contributed by Lukas

If you've ever tried to say "toy boat" three times fast, you'll know that these two words can quickly turn into one tricky tongue twister. But why? Un...

Why do some people believe the moon landings were a hoax?

03 Feb 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Three decades after the first reported manned lunar landing, some theorists still believe the landing was faked. Check in as Chuck and Josh take a loo...

How Hypoallergenic Cats Work

29 Jan 2009

Contributed by Lukas

One-third of US cat owners are allergic to cats, resigning themselves to years of suffering and expense on their pet's behalf . Could hypoallergenic c...

How Comas Work

27 Jan 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Several conditions can cause comas, including brain tumors and overdoses. Tune in as the crew discusses the causes and treatments of comas -- includin...