Stuff You Should Know

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...

How Moonshine Works

22 Jan 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Moonshiners brew illegal alcohol, usually a liquor from corn. In the United States, this practice led to some surprising outcomes -- including the dev...

Recycling and the Great Pacific Garbage Patch

20 Jan 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Recycling has come a long way since its debut -- and so have landfills. In this twofer HowStuffWorks podcast, discover the realities of modern recycli...

How Redheads Work

15 Jan 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Redheads are supposedly fiery, passionate people, but is there any truth to these stereotypes? Find out what studies have to say about redheads -- and...

What are urban explorers?

13 Jan 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Urban explorers investigate abandoned structures such as hospitals, grocery stores, warehouses and underground systems. Tune into this HowStuffWorks p...

How Body Armor Works: A Special Request

08 Jan 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Body armor has used by bodyguards, celebrities and soldiers for thousands of years. Tune into this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn how the constant inn...

How Exorcism Works

06 Jan 2009

Contributed by Lukas

Is the idea of possession a misunderstanding of physiological and psychological conditions, or has science failed to account for unknown, legitimate f...

How Midnight Regulations Work

01 Jan 2009

Contributed by Lukas

After the election in November, outgoing Presidents have an opportunity to pass last-minute (often unpopular and unpublicized) legislation as 'midnigh...

How Habeas Corpus Works

30 Dec 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Habeas Corpus is a Latin term meaning "you have the body," and -- in theory -- guarantees an incarcerated person the right to have a court determine w...

How to Survive a Plane Crash

25 Dec 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Although you're much more likely to die in an auto accident, odds are you're more afraid of flying -- but why? Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to...

How Flirting Works

23 Dec 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Flirting is an ancient -- and, at times, unconscious -- form of communication used to indicate interest in and receptivity to another person. Learn ab...

What can be done with a dead body?

18 Dec 2008

Contributed by Lukas

From transforming into a gem to being shot into space, modern technology has created a multitude of possible destinations for the bodies of the deceas...

Where's the best place on your body to get shot?

16 Dec 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Although no one wakes up in the morning hoping for a gunfight, we all know life can be unpredictable. So check out this HowStuffWorks podcast and lear...

Extended Product Warranties: To Buy or Not to Buy?

11 Dec 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Statistically speaking, extended product warranties aren't generally worth the money, but there are some purchases that warrant extra insurance. Find ...

How the Five Day Weekend Works

09 Dec 2008

Contributed by Lukas

What if Congress passed a law mandating a two-day week work? The Friends of the Five Day Weekend want Congress to do just that -- sort of. Check out t...

How Guerrilla Gardening Works

04 Dec 2008

Contributed by Lukas

You've heard of guerrilla fighting tactics, but how much do you know about guerrilla gardening? Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn more abo...

How OCD Works

02 Dec 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions. Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast ...

How Thanksgiving Works

27 Nov 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Thanksgiving is an unusual holiday in America -- there's no religious connotation, and the only traditions are a good meal and a sense of appreciation...

How Albert Einstein's Brain Worked

25 Nov 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Albert Einstein is one of the world's most recognizable geniuses. But was his brain any different from that of an average person? Check out this HowSt...

How Corporate Personhood Works

20 Nov 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Corporate personhood is an ancient legal custom tracing back to Roman law, whereby a corporation is legally considered a person. Learn more about you...

How Eco-anxiety Works

18 Nov 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Eco-anxiety -- a chronic fear of environmental doom -- is a recent, specialized type of anxiety disorder gripping an estimated 40 million people in th...

Why doesn't the FDA regulate herbal supplements?

13 Nov 2008

Contributed by Lukas

For thousands of years, societies across the globe have used herbs as medicine. While this practice continues today, the FDA does not regulate these p...

Did the CIA test LSD on unsuspecting Americans?

11 Nov 2008

Contributed by Lukas

As more and more time passes, the Freedom of Information Act provides increasingly disturbing stories of illegal CIA operations. Check out this HowStu...

How Mortgage-backed Securities Work

06 Nov 2008

Contributed by Lukas

The 2008 US financial crisis has been blamed on the excessive use of mortgage-backed securities. But what exactly is a mortgage-backed security? Learn...

How Prayer Healing Works

30 Oct 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Studies have shown that prayer has a positive effect on individuals, but can your prayer heal someone else? Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to fi...

Is a free market "free" if it's regulated?

28 Oct 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Prices in a free market are determined by the law of supply and demand, yet the US government has recently given billions of dollars to rescue large c...

How do Tibetans avoid altitude sickness?

23 Oct 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Due to the region's elevation, the average traveler to Tibet often experiences altitude sickness -- a condition caused by a lack of oxygen in the bloo...

How the Bailout Works

21 Oct 2008

Contributed by Lukas

The economy imploded as US banks reaped the consequences of subprime mortgage trades. Controversially, Congress has provided emergency funding for the...

How Living Off the Grid Works

16 Oct 2008

Contributed by Lukas

If you're tired of paying utility bills or relying on fossil fuels, it might be time to consider living off the grid. Check out this HowStuffWorks pod...

Will we soon be extinct?

14 Oct 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Is Earth due for a mass extinction? Population ecologists think so. Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn more mass extinctions. Learn more a...

How Cannibalism Works

09 Oct 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Cannibalism is one of humanity's near-universal taboos, but it has been practiced in widely varying circumstances throughout history. Check out this H...

How Entomophagy Works

07 Oct 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Entomophagy -- the practice of eating insects -- is common outside of Europe and North America. Despite cultural taboos, you've probably eaten insects...

How China's Pollution Sniffers Work

02 Oct 2008

Contributed by Lukas

In China's Guangdong province, twelve volunteers have been trained to detect harmful pollution by using their sense of smell. Check out this HowStuffW...

How Delta Force Works

30 Sep 2008

Contributed by Lukas

With the world's best weaponry, a shadowy legal status, and almost no oversight, Delta Force is the stuff of military legend. Check out this HowStuffW...

How Graceland Works

25 Sep 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Graceland attracts millions of visitors every year. Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn more about Elvis and Graceland, which Elvis bought w...

Is quitting smoking contagious?

23 Sep 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Everyone knows it's tough to quit smoking -- but did you know quitting can be contagious? Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to learn more about smo...

How Can I Erase My Identity and Start Over?

18 Sep 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Everyone dreams of snagging a fresh start at life. Whether you've thought of changing your dull given name, or just disappearing entirely, this HowStu...

What's the ultimatum game?

16 Sep 2008

Contributed by Lukas

The ultimatum game is an economics experiment that provides insight into the human psyche. Check out our HowStuffWorks podcast to learn about the rule...

Why don't we live underground?

11 Sep 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Humanity has adapted to life on the surface. We like sunlight and fresh air -- but do we need it to survive? Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast to l...

Is sleep that important?

09 Sep 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Sleep is one of those funny things about being a human being -- you just have to do it. Have you ever wondered why? Check out our HowStuffWorks articl...

What's the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant?

04 Sep 2008

Contributed by Lukas

The function of antiperspirant and deodorant is to prevent sweat or to mask the scent of body odor. Learn about the function of antiperspirant and deo...

Is there a worst way to die?

02 Sep 2008

Contributed by Lukas

But there's no consensus among professionals about which method of death is the least desirable. A person's fears may factor into his own personal wor...

What are smart mobs?

28 Aug 2008

Contributed by Lukas

With the benefit of wireless technologies like cell phones and text messaging, large groups of people are able to coordinate their actions with amazin...

Will robots get married?

26 Aug 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Some researchers believe that weddings between a human and a robot could be possible by the year 2050. Take a look at our HowStuffWorks article to lea...

How Blood Pressure Works

21 Aug 2008

Contributed by Lukas

High blood pressure -- or hypertension -- is elevated pressure of the blood in the arteries. Hypertension results from two major factors. Check out ou...

Are humans wired to survive?

19 Aug 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Are humans born with survival instincts? Check out our HowStuffWorks article to learn more about human instincts and survival. Learn more about your ...

10 Terribly Bungled Crimes

14 Aug 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Ten terribly bungled crimes throughout history are explored, such as drug deals gone wrong. Find out which ones are at the top of the list for Josh an...

Is there a torture manual?

08 Aug 2008

Contributed by Lukas

In May of 2007, the US military found drawings believed to be part of an Al-Qaida torture manual. However, the seminal manuals on torture are believed...

Are there real-life fight clubs?

05 Aug 2008

Contributed by Lukas

The 1996 Chuck Palahniuk novel, "Fight Club," has been blamed -- and lauded -- by various groups for inspiring several real-life fight clubs. Take a l...

Exactly what happens if we run out of water?

31 Jul 2008

Contributed by Lukas

In 1995, World Bank vice president Ismail Serageldin declared that "the wars of the next century will be about water." Check out our HowStuffWorks art...

Is knife hunting the fairest way to hunt?

29 Jul 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Fair chase is the idea that a balance should be struck between the hunter's ability to kill prey and the prey's ability escape. Take a look at our How...

Why do people blush?

24 Jul 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Blushing from embarrassment is governed by the sympathetic nervous system, which governs involuntary processes. Although we know how people blush, we ...

How Carbon Capture Works

22 Jul 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Carbon capture is the process of trapping carbon emissions and storing them away from the atmosphere to prevent global warming. Check out our carbon c...

Are Dogs a Shark's Favorite Meal?

17 Jul 2008

Contributed by Lukas

In 2005, The Sun reported that dogs were being used as live bait in the Indian Ocean. Is it possible that dogs are a delicacy to sharks? Take a look a...

Can I Survive a Shark Attack by Gouging Out Its Eyes?

15 Jul 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Although it can be intimidating, a shark is not invulnerable. Punching its nose, gouging its eyes, or grabbing its gills can stun the shark and give v...

How Ripperology Works

10 Jul 2008

Contributed by Lukas

The unsolved murder spree of Jack the Ripper has captivated generations of amateur investigators, each with their own theory of the killer's identity....

How Personal Rapid Transport Works

07 Jul 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Personal rapid transport combines the best traits of subways and taxis, and costs less to build than light rail. Could this be the future of transport...

How Abandoned Cities Work

01 Jul 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Cities can become abandoned for a number of reasons, from economic meltdowns to nuclear catastrophes. Check out this HowStuffWorks podcast and learn m...

How Murphy's Law Works

01 Jul 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Murphy's law originates in 1949, and states 'anything that can go wrong, will.' Check out this HowStuffWorks to learn more about how the Air Force dis...

How Death-Proof Cars Work

26 Jun 2008

Contributed by Lukas

Could high-end digital auto systems such as blind-spot detection and collision prevention overcome the errors of human drivers? Check out this HowStuf...