Podcasts by Stuff To Blow Your Mind

Listener Mail: Crockett's Theme from 2023-12-11T11:00

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From the Vault: The Origins of Games Workshop, with Sir Ian Livingstone from 2023-12-09T11:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert chats with Sir Ian Livingstone, co-founder of Games Workshop and co-author of the Fighting Fantasy gamebook series with Steve Jackson, ...

Weirdhouse Cinema: I Come in Peace from 2023-12-08T21:21:09

Christmas is a time for comfort and joy, sure, but it’s also a time for holiday-themed action films and drug-dealing space giants. In this holiday episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discu...

The Sunken Lands, Part 4 from 2023-12-07T22:42:56

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the world of lost islands and forgotten continents, in both actual geologic history and the mists of the human imagination.  Listen

The Monstrefact Redux: Mumm-Ra from 2023-12-06T15:57:38

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses Mumm-Ra the Ever Living…

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The Sunken Lands, Part 3 from 2023-12-05T20:55:55

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the world of lost islands and forgotten continents, in both actual geologic history and the mists of the human imagination.  Listen

Listener Mail: Oh Mighty Krampus from 2023-12-04T11:00

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From the Vault: Goblet of Eggnog from 2023-12-02T11:00

In this special holiday episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the history and invention of the eggnog, how it became such an iconic holiday beverage and some curious histori...

Weirdhouse Cinema: RoboCop (1987) from 2023-12-01T23:15:04

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss Paul Verhoeven’s 1987 sci-fi action classic “RoboCop,” a film as deeply satirical as it is gratuitously violent. 

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The Sunken Lands, Part 2 from 2023-11-30T22:05:56

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the world of lost islands and forgotten continents, in both actual geologic history and the mists of the human imagination.  Listen

Smart Talks with IBM: Salesforce&IBM: Revolutionizing Experiences with Generative AI from 2023-11-29T11:00

The capabilities of artificial intelligence are increasing at a breakneck speed. Companies must leverage generative AI to transform everyday customer and employee experiences. In this episode of...

The Sunken Lands, Part 1 from 2023-11-28T21:13:43

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the world of lost islands and forgotten continents, in both actual geologic history and the mists of the human imagination.  Listen

Listener Mail: A Bird of Courage from 2023-11-27T11:00

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From the Vault: Of Ice and Men, with Fred Hogge from 2023-11-25T11:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert chats with author Fred Hogge about his new book “Of Ice and Men: How We’ve Used Cold to Transform Humanity,” covering everything from c...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Extra Terrestrial Visitors from 2023-11-24T11:00

On this classic episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe venture into the wild world of Spanish b-movie cinema with Juan Piquer Simón’s “Extra Terrestrial Visitors,” in which a pair of aliens r...

From the Vault: Reptiles of Galapagos, Part 2 from 2023-11-23T11:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss some of the most famous reptilian residents of the Galapagos archipelago, including the world’s largest extant tortoise...

The Monstrefact Omnibus: Monsters of DC Comics from 2023-11-22T11:00

In this special omnibus episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, enjoy the first four episodes concerning monsters from the DC universe: Killer Croc, Swamp Thing, Doomsday and Mister Mind. 

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From the Vault: Reptiles of Galapagos, Part 1 from 2023-11-21T11:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss some of the most famous reptilian residents of the Galapagos archipelago, including the world’s largest extant tortoise...

Listener Mail: Earth's Gravity Wears You Out from 2023-11-20T17:41:06

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From the Vault: Play the Record Backwards, Part 2 from 2023-11-18T11:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert is joined by Rusty Needle’s Record Club host Seth Nicholas Johnson for a discussion of various means of secreting information into audi...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Butterfly Murders from 2023-11-17T23:24:43

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1979 Hong Kong wuxia film “The Butterfly Murders,” directed by Tsui Hark. The film certainly delivers on killer butterflies, but it’...

The Invention of the Crossbow, Part 2 from 2023-11-16T22:02:22

In this invention-themed episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Rob and Joe discuss the origins and ingenuity of the crossbow. 

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Smart Talks with IBM: Generative AI: Its Rise and Potential for Society from 2023-11-15T11:00

In order to stay competitive in a rapidly changing marketplace, businesses need to adapt to the potential of generative AI. In this special live episode of Smart Talks with IBM, Malcolm Gladwell...

The Invention of the Crossbow, Part 1 from 2023-11-14T22:51:47

In this invention-themed episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Rob and Joe discuss the origins and ingenuity of the crossbow. 

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Listener Mail: Now Available in Candle Format from 2023-11-13T15:50:18

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From the Vault: Play the Record Backwards, Part 1 from 2023-11-11T11:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert is joined by Rusty Needle’s Record Club host Seth Nicholas Johnson for a discussion of various means of secreting information into audi...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Visitors from the Arkana Galaxy from 2023-11-10T20:59:21

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the absurd sci-fi fantasy film “Visitors from the Arkana Galaxy,” a 1981 Yugoslav-Czech co-production full of intergalactic aliens and s...

The Headless Men, Part 2 from 2023-11-09T18:39:48

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss headless beings in myth, legend and the bestiaries of antiquity. What is it about a headless being that captivates us so and wh...

The Monstrefact Omnibus: Monsters of Marvel Comics from 2023-11-08T21:20:57

In this special omnibus episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, enjoy the first five episodes concerning monsters from the Marvel Comics universe: Marvel mummies, Mystique, the Symbiotes, the Thing ...

The Headless Men, Part 1 from 2023-11-07T12:26:57

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss headless beings in myth, legend and the bestiaries of antiquity. What is it about a headless being that captivates us so and wh...

Listener Mail: Cats, Dogs and Stoneground from 2023-11-06T11:00

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From the Vault: The Invention of the Gimbal from 2023-11-04T10:00

In this classic invention-themed episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the ancient origins of the gimbal, its connections to Chinese incense censers and its role in technolo...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Critters from 2023-11-03T19:46:48

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1986 sci-fi creature feature “Critters,” starring Dee Wallace, M. Emmet Walsh, Billy Zane, Terrence Mann and a bunch of ravenous spa...

The Search For Alien Life, with Astrophysicist Adam Frank from 2023-11-02T18:37:25

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert discusses big questions, fears and possibilities concerning extraterrestrial life with astrophysicist Adam Frank, author of “The Little Book of...

Monstrefact Redux: Sleipnir, the Eight-Legged Horse from 2023-11-01T10:00

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses Sleipnir, the mythical stead of the Norse god Odin. (originally published 06/07/2023) 

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Anthology of Horror, Volume 9 from 2023-10-31T21:41:49

Yes, the Halloween tradition continues as Robert and Joe dive into the rich history of TV horror and sci-fi anthology shows to focus on STBYM topics that might not otherwise make the show. In th...

Dr. Anton Jessup's Halloween Spectacular from 2023-10-30T20:41:32

Dr. Anton Jessup takes a break from his experiments to read some of the listener and viewer mail that has accumulated in the university basement, but this time things take a more dramatic turn… ...

From the Vault: Elfshot, Part 2 from 2023-10-28T10:00

These lands are old and the elves who lived before us still watch and wait. Cross them, and you may feel the prick of their arrow. You’ll find no wound, though your flesh will swell and ache, an...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Dracula A.D. 1972 from 2023-10-27T21:37:09

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the late-franchise Hammer horror film “Dracula A.D. 1972,” in which Chrisopher Lee’s vampiric prince of darkness rises from the ashes a ...

Where the Shadows Lie, Part 2 from 2023-10-26T22:31:08

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe dive into the world of shadows. How do human conceptions of shadows factor into our literature, art, history and monster making? What d...

The Monstrefact: The Mummy from 2023-10-25T20:15:06

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the undead mummies of horror cinema and where they emerge from in modern Egyptomania… 

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Where the Shadows Lie, Part 1 from 2023-10-24T21:33:27

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe dive into the world of shadows. How do human conceptions of shadows factor into our literature, art, history and monster making? What d...

Listener Mail: Silver'd in the Moon's Eclipse from 2023-10-23T18:53:14

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From the Vault: Elfshot, Part 1 from 2023-10-21T10:00

These lands are old and the elves who lived before us still watch and wait. Cross them, and you may feel the prick of their arrow. You’ll find no wound, though your flesh will swell and ache, an...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Bride of Frankenstein from 2023-10-20T23:14:06

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the amazingly weird and wonderful 1935 horror classic “The Bride of Frankenstein.” Has the doctor put his monster-making days behind him...

Kaibyō: The Strange Cats of Japan, Part 2 from 2023-10-19T21:14:59

Spooky cats are an iconic part of Halloween iconography, so in this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe dive into the world of Kaibyō: the various strange and supernatural cats fo...

Smart Talks with IBM: Responsible AI: Why Businesses Need Reliable AI Governance from 2023-10-18T10:00

To deploy responsible AI and build trust with customers, businesses need to prioritize AI governance. In this episode of Smart Talks with IBM, Malcolm Gladwell and Laurie Santos discuss AI accou...

Kaibyō: The Strange Cats of Japan, Part 1 from 2023-10-17T22:47:59

Spooky cats are an iconic part of Halloween iconography, so in this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe dive into the world of Kaibyō: the various strange and supernatural cats fo...

Listener Mail: Scale of Dragon, Tooth of Wolf from 2023-10-16T19:12:39

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From the Vault: Oh Goat, You Devil - Part 3 from 2023-10-14T10:00

If you’ve ever actually been around a goat, you probably wouldn’t confuse it for the ultimate evil spirit. And yet, goats have various demonic and satanic connotations in Christian traditions. I...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Return of the Blind Dead from 2023-10-13T10:00

In this classic episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the stand-alone, second installment of Spanish director Amando de Ossorio’s “Blind Dead'' series from 1973. The sightless revena...

From the Vault: Oh Goat, You Devil - Part 2 from 2023-10-12T04:00

If you’ve ever actually been around a goat, you probably wouldn’t confuse it for the ultimate evil spirit. And yet, goats have various demonic and satanic connotations in Christian traditions. I...

The Artifact Redux: Krueger's Claw from 2023-10-11T10:00

In this classic episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses Freddy Kreuger’s infamous claw weapon and how it compares to the actual use of bladed gauntlets in history… (originally publishe...

From the Vault: Oh Goat, You Devil - Part 1 from 2023-10-10T10:00

If you’ve ever actually been around a goat, you probably wouldn’t confuse it for the ultimate evil spirit. And yet, goats have various demonic and satanic connotations in Christian traditions. I...

Listener Mail: Eye of Newt and Toe of Frog from 2023-10-09T10:00

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From the Vault: The Cattle Mutilation Panic of the 1970s from 2023-10-07T10:00

Strange lights and black helicopters in the night. Cattle found dead with blood or organs seemingly removed from strange incisions. Alien visitors in the heartland. In this classic episode of St...

Weirdhouse Cinema: TerrorVision from 2023-10-06T22:14:25

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe tune their satellite dish to 1986 and discuss the outrageous sci-fi horror camp-fest that is Ted Nicolaou’s “TerrorVision,” starring Gerrit Grah...

The Necromantic Urge, Part 3 from 2023-10-05T21:51:03

It’s that time of year again. Join Robert and Joe as Stuff to Blow Your Mind descends into the Halloween season. In this episode, explore the historic and psychological origins of necromancy: th...

The Monstrefact: Rawhead Rex and Kin from 2023-10-04T18:00

In this special bonus episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses Clive Barker’s Rawhead Rex and various related creatures and spirits from English lore and legend…

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Smart Talks with IBM: Hugging Face and watsonx: Why Open Source Is the Future of AI in Business from 2023-10-04T10:00

Open-source innovation is the future of AI. In this episode of Smart Talks with IBM, Malcolm Gladwell and Tim Harford discuss the open-source AI community with Jeff Boudier, he...

The Necromantic Urge, Part 2 from 2023-10-03T21:21:10

It’s that time of year again. Join Robert and Joe as Stuff to Blow Your Mind descends into the Halloween season. In this episode, explore the historic and psychological origins of necromancy: th...

Listener Mail: Round About The Cauldron Go from 2023-10-02T21:09:49

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The Archaeology of Counter-Witchcraft, with Brian Hoggard from 2023-09-30T10:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert discusses witch bottles and other forms of counter-witchcraft of olden days with Brian Hoggard, author of "Magical House Protection: Th...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Sorcerers from 2023-09-29T23:03:14

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe kick off the Halloween season with 1967’s “The Sorcerers,” starring Boris Karloff. It's a groovy mix of hypnosis, mind control and murder. 

The Necromantic Urge, Part 1 from 2023-09-28T19:28:16

It’s that time of year again. Join Robert and Joe as Stuff to Blow Your Mind descends into the Halloween season. In this episode, explore the historic and psychological origins of necromancy: th...

The Monstrefact: The Nine Faces of Death from 2023-09-27T10:00

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the mythological Chinese monster known as the Nine Faces of Death… 

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The 2023 Ig Nobel Prizes, Part 2 from 2023-09-26T21:27:14

It’s that time of year again! Join Robert and Joe as they discuss some of this year’s Ig Nobel prize-winning scientific studies and papers – honored as always for first making us laugh, then mak...

Listener Mail: SB-129 from 2023-09-25T19:04:27

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From the Vault: The Invention of the Odometer from 2023-09-23T10:00

You might not think your car’s odometer is that exciting, but it’s actually the modern incarnation of an ancient invention with roots in China and the Greco-Roman world. Join Robert and Joe as t...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill! from 2023-09-22T21:36:17

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1965 cult classic crime thriller “Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” directed by Russ Myers and starring Tura Santana, Haji and Lori Wil...

The 2023 Ig Nobel Prizes, Part 1 from 2023-09-21T19:19:30

It’s that time of year again! Join Robert and Joe as they discuss some of this year’s Ig Nobel prize-winning scientific studies and papers – honored as always for first making us laugh, then mak...

Smart Talks With IBM: Transformations in AI: why foundation models are the future from 2023-09-20T10:00

Major breakthroughs in artificial intelligence research often reshape the design and utility of AI in both business and society. In this episode of Smart Talks with IBM, Malcolm Gladwell and Jac...

Future Shock 2023, Part 3 from 2023-09-19T18:50:27

In the 1970 book “Future Shock,” futurist Alvin Toffler outlined a vision of post-industrial society in which rapid technological and social changes outstrip the average human’s ability to cope....

Listener Mail: Tomorrow Never Knows from 2023-09-18T12:35:28

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From the Vault: The Invention of Surgical Gloves from 2023-09-16T21:53:01

In this classic invention-themed episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the origin of surgical gloves, the differing concepts for their composition and the struggle to get su...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Man Who Fell to Earth from 2023-09-15T19:19:53

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss Nicolas Roeg's 1976 sci-fi film "The Man Who Fell to Earth," starring the legendary David Bowie.

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Future Shock 2023, Part 2 from 2023-09-14T16:39:55

In the 1970 book “Future Shock,” futurist Alvin Toffler outlined a vision of post-industrial society in which rapid technological and social changes outstrip the average human’s ability to cope....

The Artifact: The Gadget Cane from 2023-09-13T15:09:43

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses various gadget canes, from Benjamin Franklin’s walking stick to Edgar Alan Poe’s cane sword… 

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Future Shock 2023, Part 1 from 2023-09-12T22:26:07

In the 1970 book “Future Shock,” futurist Alvin Toffler outlined a vision of post-industrial society in which rapid technological and social changes outstrip the average human’s ability to cope....

Listener Mail: Satellite Anthem Icarus from 2023-09-11T18:41:17

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From the Vault: The Paragraph, Part 2 from 2023-09-09T10:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the standard nugget of textual thought: the paragraph. (originally published 8/25/22)

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Weirdhouse Cinema: Diabolik from 2023-09-08T21:44:26

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe return to the phantasmagorical world of Mario Bava with the stylish 1968 crime thriller “Danger: Diabolik,” starring John Phillip Law and Marisa...

Stickiness, Part 3 from 2023-09-07T12:31:55

We encounter sticky surfaces and sticky substances everyday, but what exactly IS “stickiness?” In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the physical properties of stick...

Smart Talks with IBM: AI for Business: Multiplying the impact of AI from 2023-09-06T10:00

As businesses adopt AI, a new era of problem-solving, innovation, and creative decision-making can be brought to scale. In this episode of Smart Talks with IBM, Malcolm Gladwell and Jacob Goldst...

From the Vault: The Paragraph, Part 1 from 2023-09-05T14:58:07

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the standard nugget of textual thought: the paragraph. (originally published 8/23/22)

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Listener Mail: Children of the Sun from 2023-09-04T10:00

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New Season of Smart Talks with IBM Coming Soon from 2023-09-03T10:00

Smart Talks with IBM returns this September 5th. This season, host Malcolm Gladwell and a team of correspondents from Pushkin Industries explore how businesses can integrate AI into their workfl...

From the Vault: The Whistling, Part 4 from 2023-09-02T10:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the nature and history of human whistling – including the subject of whistled languages. (originally published 08/16/20...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Devil’s Men from 2023-09-01T17:59:05

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1976 Greek horror film “The Devil’s Men,” also known as “Land of the Minotaur.” Horror legends Donald Pleasence and Peter Cushing he...

The Mind of Douglas Adams, with Kevin Jon Davies from 2023-08-31T18:25:11

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert chats with Kevin Jon Davies about his new book “The Wildly Improbable Ideas of Douglas Adams,” detailing the mind of the author who gave us “Th...

The Artifact: The Hand of Glory from 2023-08-31T12:57:12

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses the Hand of Glory from European occultism… 

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Stickiness, Part 2 from 2023-08-29T22:56:50

We encounter sticky surfaces and sticky substances everyday, but what exactly IS “stickiness?” In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the physical properties of stick...

Listener Mail: An Index of Metals from 2023-08-28T20:10:12

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From the Vault: The Whistling, Part 3 from 2023-08-26T10:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the nature and history of human whistling – including the subject of whistled languages. (originally published 08/09/20...

Weirdhouse Cinema: This Night I'll Possess Your Corpse from 2023-08-25T18:45:10

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe venture into the weird, wild world of Coffin Joe with the 1967 Brazilian horror film “This Night I'll Possess Your Corpse.”

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Stickiness, Part 1 from 2023-08-24T21:38:02

We encounter sticky surfaces and sticky substances everyday, but what exactly IS “stickiness?” In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the physical properties of stick...

The Monstrefact Omnibus: Chaos Daemons of Warhammer 40k from 2023-08-23T13:58:52

In this special omnibus episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, enjoy all four episodes concerning the chaos daemons of Games Workshop’s Warhammer 40,000 universe: Khorne, Tzeentch, Nurgle and Slaan...

From the Vault: The Null Ship from 2023-08-22T20:41:09

In this classic episode of the Stuff to Blow Your Mind podcast, Robert and Joe discuss the history and principles of the vacuum airship or null ship. Will futuristic materials ever make this 17t...

Listener Mail: Intergalactic Planetary from 2023-08-21T17:59:12

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From the Vault: The Whistling, Part 2 from 2023-08-19T10:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the nature and history of human whistling – including the subject of whistled languages. (originally published 08/04/20...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Green Slime from 2023-08-18T20:31:45

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss 1968’s “The Green Slime,” a surprisingly procedural sci-fi film full of rubbery monsters, serious men, model rockets and more than a lit...

Dendera Lights and Ancient Egyptian Pseudohistory from 2023-08-17T22:09:59

In recent episodes of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discussed low-resolution images that have provoked paranormal and fringe explanations, despite convincing and even conclusive expert...

The Monstrefact: DC Comics' Swamp Thing from 2023-08-16T16:08:31

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses Swamp Thing from DC Comics…

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Another Enigmatic Underwater Image from 2023-08-15T20:40:10

In the last episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discussed the so-called Eltanin Antenna and how it is at once an identified image of a deep sea organism and an icon of paranormal ...

Listener Mail: Chromakey Dreamcoat from 2023-08-14T18:30:07

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From the Vault: The Whistling, Part 1 from 2023-08-12T10:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the nature and history of human whistling – including the subject of whistled languages. (originally published 08/02/20...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Viewing from 2023-08-11T10:00

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss Panos Cosmatos’ “The Viewing,'' a delightfully psychotronic 2022 short film featured on Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities. The...

The Eltanin Antenna from 2023-08-10T23:21:42

In this episode of Stuff to Blow your Mind, Rob and Joe discuss the alleged Eltanin Antenna and the natural-world explanation for the image. What does this case and others like it reveal about o...

The Monstrefact: DC Comics' Doomsday from 2023-08-09T21:56:56

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses Doomsday, slayer of Superman…

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The Matter of Everything, with Suzie Sheehy from 2023-08-08T22:10

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Joe chats with physicist Suzie Sheehy, author of "The Matter of Everything: How Curiosity, Physics, and Improbable Experiments Changed the World."

Listener Mail: The Color of the Fire from 2023-08-07T19:30:24

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail...

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From the Vault: Of Humans and Squids, with Martin Wallen from 2023-08-05T10:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert chats with Martin Wallen about his 2021 book “Squid,” which covers the history of humanity’s scientific, folkloric and literary interes...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Maze from 2023-08-04T21:23:29

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe venture into 1953’s “The Maze,” a 3-D haunted castle film with an incredibly weird twist. 

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Oil and Troubled Water, Part 2 from 2023-08-03T21:50:36

The interaction between oil and water has fascinated us since ancient times, and it has factored into practices as diverse as divination rituals and attempts to calm turbulent waters at sea with...

The Monstrefact: DC Comics' Killer Croc from 2023-08-02T10:00

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses one of the most monstrous characters from Batman’s rogues' gallery: Killer Croc…

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Cave of Bones, with Lee Berger from 2023-08-01T19:14:24

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert chats with paleoanthropologist Lee Berger about his team’s amazing discoveries in South Africa's Rising Star cave system and previously unknown...

Listener Mail: White Cyclosa from 2023-07-31T20:11:49

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail...

See omnystudio.com/listener for priva...

From the Vault: Fantastic Numbers, with Antonio Padilla from 2023-07-29T10:00

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert chats with theoretical physicist and cosmologist Professor Antonio Padilla, author of the new book "Fantastic Numbers and Where to Find...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Chronicles of Riddick from 2023-07-28T22:25:05

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe return to the 21st century to discuss the 2004 space opera sequel “The Chronicles of Riddick,” starring Vin Diesel and a powerhouse supporting c...

The Colossus of Rhodes, with Michael Denis Higgins from 2023-07-27T21:09:04

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert chats with Michael Denis Higgins, Professor Emeritus of Earth Science at the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi and author of the new book “The ...

The Monstrefact: DC Comics’ Mister Mind from 2023-07-25T19:15:18

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the Mister Mind, a Venusian supervillain mind-control worm from the pages of DC Comics… 

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Listener Mail: Aloysius Devadander Abercrombie from 2023-07-24T19:29:03

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail...

See omnystudio.com/listener for priva...

The Vegetable Lamb of Tartary, Part 1 from 2022-04-19T13:25:45

In the previous week’s episodes of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discussed contemplations of plant memory and other topics that blur our understanding of the animal/plant divide. In this ...

Listener Mail: Smaragdus Eyes from 2022-04-18T10:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the Vault: Jupiter the Destroyer, Part 1 from 2022-04-16T10:01

Did the planet Jupiter, like a reckless god, wreak havoc on a young solar system? Join Robert and Joe and they consider the red planet’s destructive powers on Stuff to Blow Your Mind. (originally p...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Devil Rides Out from 2022-04-15T10:01

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1968 Hammer horror film “The Devil Rides Out,” directed by Terence Fisher and adapted by Richard Matheson from the novel by Dennis Whea...

Plant Memories, Part 2 from 2022-04-14T15:05

Do plants remember? Do they communicate? What is the extent of their interaction with their environment? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind series, Robert and Joe dive into the amazing world of plant ...

The Monstrefact: Blade and the Slime Mite from 2022-04-13T10:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses a possible link between Blade the Vampire Hunter and a particular slime mite… See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plant Memories, Part 1 from 2022-04-12T15:00

Do plants remember? Do they communicate? What is the extent of their interaction with their environment? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind series, Robert and Joe dive into the amazing world of plant ...

Listener Mail: Eyes of the Potato from 2022-04-11T10:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the Vault: The Dad Joke from 2022-04-09T10:01

We all know a “dad joke” when we hear one, but what exactly qualifies as a dad joke and what does it reveal about parenthood, childhood learning and comedy itself? Robert and Joe explore in this ep...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Hands of Steel from 2022-04-08T10:01

This week’s classic episode of Weirdhouse Cinema is 30 percent human, 70 percent robot and 100 percent lethal -- because the subject is the 1986 Italian sci-fi action film “Hands of Steel,” a cybor...

From the Vault: The Invention of the Spoon, Part 2 from 2022-04-07T10:01

It’s time for another invention-based classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind. In this episode, Robert and Joe discuss a very old invention that we can scarcely imagine life without: the spoon. ...

The Artifact Redux: The Corleck Head from 2022-04-06T10:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses a fascinating Celtic artifact... See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the Vault: The Invention of the Spoon, Part 1 from 2022-04-05T10:01

It’s time for another invention-based classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind. In this episode, Robert and Joe discuss a very old invention that we can scarcely imagine life without: the spoon. ...

Spring Break is Here from 2022-04-04T10:01

Rob and Joe prepare you for a week of Spring Break classics... See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the Vault: The Nile Inundation from 2022-04-02T10:01

The annual inundation of the Nile was vital to the Ancient Egyptians, and therefore factored heavily into their mythology. Join Robert and Joe as they discuss flood waters, the origins of life and ...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Abominable Dr. Phibes from 2022-04-01T14:42

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1971 dark comedy horror film “The Abominable Dr. Phibes,” starring horror icon Vincent Price as the titular revenger himself. See omny...

The Three-Pupiled Eye, Part 2 from 2022-03-31T10:01

From heroes to sages to destructive monsters, various figures in Irish mythology are described as possessing eyes of seven or three pupils (or irises). We also see discussion of such marvelous eyes...

The Monstrefact: The Nosferatu Vampire from 2022-03-30T16:47:05

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the Nosferatu vampire… See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Three-Pupiled Eye, Part 1 from 2022-03-29T15:42

From heroes to sages to destructive monsters, various figures in Irish mythology are described as possessing eyes of seven or three pupils (or irises). We also see discussion of such marvelous eyes...

Listener Mail: Week Sauce from 2022-03-28T13:37:51

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail...Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/...

From the Vault: Fata Morgana from 2022-03-26T07:01

The horizon is an interesting netherworld of optical phenomena, where -- to the human eye -- ghost ships may sal the sky, phantom islands offer relief to weary sailors, sea monsters tower and alien...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Next of Kin (1982) from 2022-03-25T13:46

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe venture down under for the 1982 supernatural thriller “Next of Kin,” starring Jacki Kerin, John Jarratt and a superb score by German electronic mus...

The Beast Wore an Apron, Part 2 from 2022-03-24T13:39:34

Are there any animals other than humans that cook their food? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the world of non-human animal meal preparation. Bon appétit! Learn...

The Monstrefact: Birdo of Subcon from 2022-03-23T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the famous egg-spitting lizard creature from “Super Mario Brothers 2.” Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastne...

The Beast Wore an Apron, Part 1 from 2022-03-22T16:07

Are there any animals other than humans that cook their food? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the world of non-human animal meal preparation. Bon appétit! Learn...

Listener Mail: Green Stamps from 2022-03-21T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Sargasso Sea from 2022-03-19T07:01

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the sargassum seaweed and the many strange and amazing organisms that call it home. (originally published 4/29/2021) Lea...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Beastmaster 2 from 2022-03-18T15:48

This week on Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe dive into “Beastmaster 2: Through the Portal of Time,” a 1991 sequel full of loincloths, green magic, animal hijinks and a lethal dose of goofy one-liner...

Finn McCool, Part 2: The Thumb of Knowledge from 2022-03-17T07:01

The Irish mythological hero Finn MacCool is known for many exploits, from the slaying of a great fire monster to the creation of Giant's Causeway. However, he’s also known for his magical thumb, wh...

The Monstrefact: Abhartach, the Irish Vampire from 2022-03-16T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses what may be the oldest vampire in Western European traditions… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.co...

Finn McCool, Part 1: Mythic Exploits of the Irish Hero from 2022-03-15T16:06:21

The Irish mythological hero Finn MacCool is known for many exploits, from the slaying of a great fire monster to the creation of Giant's Causeway. However, he’s also known for his magical thumb, wh...

Listener Mail: Tuesday's Great and Wednesday Too! from 2022-03-14T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Halo, Part 2 from 2022-03-12T08:01

From glowing rings to flaming sun discs, the halo takes many forms in religious iconography. Why do angels, saints, gods and demigods love standing beneath or in front of these things? In this clas...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Eliminators from 2022-03-11T15:58:06

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe dive head first into the 1986 cyborg time-travel adventure film “Eliminators,” which has robots, cavemen, kung-fu and more boat-related combat than...

The Seven Day Week, Part 3 from 2022-03-10T17:59

Our modern world is bound to the seven day week, but why is this the case? Is there anything in the cosmos or the inner workings of the human body that dictate this arrangement? In this episode of ...

The Artifact: Death Tripods of Dune from 2022-03-09T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses the death tripods of Dune… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privac...

The Seven Day Week, Part 2 from 2022-03-08T16:53:05

Our modern world is bound to the seven day week, but why is this the case? Is there anything in the cosmos or the inner workings of the human body that dictate this arrangement? In this episode of ...

Listener Mail: Lousy Smarch Weather from 2022-03-07T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Halo, Part 1 from 2022-03-05T08:01

From glowing rings to flaming sun discs, the halo takes many forms in religious iconography. Why do angels, saints, gods and demigods love standing beneath or in front of these things? In this clas...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Zeiram from 2022-03-04T15:19:22

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1991 Japanese sci-fi monster film Zeiram, in which a futuristic bounty hunter from space must hunt down a deadly alien renegade with th...

The Seven Day Week, Part 1 from 2022-03-03T14:39:40

Our modern world is bound to the seven day week, but why is this the case? Is there anything in the cosmos or the inner workings of the human body that dictate this arrangement? In this episode of ...

The Monstrefact: Ditto, a Pokémon from 2022-03-02T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the shapeshifting Pokémon known as Ditto.Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com See omnystudio.com/li...

From the Vault: The Invention of Ketchup from 2022-03-01T08:01

You love it. You put it on everything. But where does ketchup come from? In this classic episode of Invention, Robert and Joe explore the mysterious origins of everyone’s favorite sweet red sauce -...

Listener Mail: At Length Did Cross an Albatross from 2022-02-28T14:34:37

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Moses Illusion from 2022-02-26T08:01

How many animals of each kind did Moses take on the Ark? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss The Moses Illusion, one persistent example from a class of mental phenome...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Billy the Kid and the Green Baize Vampire from 2022-02-25T14:25:43

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the greatest vampire snooker movie of all time. Yes, it's Alan Clarke's 1985 rock musical "Billy the Kid and the Green Baize Vampire." Le...

Sailor on a Sea of Lava from 2022-02-24T19:02:01

To sail down a river of lava in a boat is surely a thing of pure fantasy, but in this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the actual “lava boats” you might glimpse in volcani...

The Monstrefact: Akhlut from 2022-02-23T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the Akhlut of Inuit traditions. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener fo...

From the Vault: Dissolver of Worlds from 2022-02-22T08:01

In this episode of the Stuff to Blow Your Mind podcast, Robert and Joe discuss the nature of the Alkahest, the universal solvent of alchemy. (originally published 4/27/2021) Learn more about your...

Listener Mail: Supernaut from 2022-02-21T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Gold, Metal of the Sun from 2022-02-19T08:01

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the nature of gold, humanity’s history extracting it from the Earth and the amazing properties of gold nanoparticles. (Ori...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Mr. Vampire from 2022-02-18T08:01

In this classic episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1985 Hong Kong comedy horror film “Mr. Vampire,” in which our heroes use kicks, furniture, rice and Taoist sorcery against the ...

From the Vault: Monsters of the Shān Hǎi Jīng, Part 2 from 2022-02-17T08:01

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the Shān Hǎi Jīng or “Classic of Mountains and Seas,” an ancient Chinese text that compiles the mythic geography and fanta...

The Monstrefact Redux: Chiseltooth from 2022-02-16T08:01

In this classic episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the monster Chiseltooth from Chinese mythology… (origianlly published 10/20/2021) Learn more about your ad-choices at https://...

From the Vault: Monsters of the Shān Hǎi Jīng, Part 1 from 2022-02-15T08:01

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the Shān Hǎi Jīng or “Classic of Mountains and Seas,” an ancient Chinese text that compiles the mythic geography and fanta...

Listener Mail: Hand of Dog from 2022-02-14T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Brain and Head Theft, Part 2 from 2022-02-12T08:01

First they came for their heads. Then they came for their brains. In this classic Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert and Joe discuss the weird and fascinating history of head and brain pres...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Brain Eaters from 2022-02-11T14:25:24

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1958 sci-fi movie “The Brain Eaters,” which doesn’t actually feature brain eating but is still a lot of fun. Learn more about your ad...

Giants in the Earth: The Paleoburrows from 2022-02-10T14:29:43

Enter the paleoburrows of South America, where evidence suggests construction not by human hands or tools but by giant claws – and for purposes we’re still trying to understand. Learn more about ...

The Monstrefact: The Gruenak of Thra from 2022-02-09T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses one of the doomed species of the planet Thra in “The Dark Crystal: The Age of Resistance.” Learn more about your ad-choices at https:/...

Thirst, Part 3 from 2022-02-08T08:01

What is thirst? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind series, Robert and Joe dive into the biological, cultural and mythological answers to this broad question. Learn more about your ad-choices at http...

Listener Mail: Kuleshov Kul-Aid from 2022-02-07T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Brain and Head Theft, Part 1 from 2022-02-05T08:01

First they came for their heads. Then they came for their brains. In this classic Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert and Joe discuss the weird and fascinating history of head and brain pres...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Beast With Five Fingers from 2022-02-04T08:01

What has five fingers and is an absolute beast? A disembodied crawling hand, of course! In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1946 horror film “The Beast With Five Fingers” ...

Thirst, Part 2 from 2022-02-03T19:22

What is thirst? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind series, Robert and Joe dive into the biological, cultural and mythological answers to this broad question. Learn more about your ad-choices at http...

The Monstrefact: Baba Yaga from 2022-02-02T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses one of the most famous Russian fairy tale characters of all time… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork...

Thirst, Part 1 from 2022-02-01T19:19

What is thirst? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind series, Robert and Joe dive into the biological, cultural and mythological answers to this broad question. Learn more about your ad-choices at http...

Listener Mail: Bowling Alleys On The Moon from 2022-01-31T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Tempest Stele from 2022-01-29T08:01

During the 18th Dynasty of Ancient Egypt, Pharaoh Ahmose I erected a stele detailing a great storm that destroyed tombs, temples and other structures. Does this artifact describe a real atmospheric...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Phase IV from 2022-01-28T16:49:35

What happens when a solar conjunction allows all ant species to unite against their enemies? Find out as Rob and Joe discuss the delightfully weird 1974 film “Phase IV.” Learn more about your ad-...

The Kuleshov Effect, Part 2 from 2022-01-27T20:03:45

What is the character in the film looking at? How does the object of their vision color how we interpret their countenance? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the Ku...

The Artifact: Rotten Brooms Bleeding Black Blood from 2022-01-26T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses connections between rotting wood and the supernatural… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnyst...

The Kuleshov Effect, Part 1 from 2022-01-25T14:52:55

What is the character in the film looking at? How does the object of their vision color how we interpret their countenance? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the Ku...

Listener Mail: The Braid of Nastenka from 2022-01-24T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Bonsai Tree from 2022-01-22T08:01

Spanning centuries of human history, the iconic bonsai tree is a widely recognized example of Japanese mastery. Each miniature tree speaks to the beauty of cultivated nature and the immutability of...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Hercules (1983) from 2022-01-21T14:40

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe contend with the glittering, cosmic glory of Luigi Cozzi’s 1983 film “Hercules,” starring Lou Ferrigno as the mighty hero, William Berger as scienc...

Do ants make traps? from 2022-01-20T18:18:58

The trap is insidious. But of course it is. It was designed and executed… by ants? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, the ant wars continue as Robert and Joe explore some of the possibilit...

The Monstrefact: Donkeys of Dune from 2022-01-19T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the oft-forgotten Kulons of the planet Arrakis… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio...

The Silurian Hypothesis from 2022-01-18T15:57:24

If an advanced civilization existed on earth several million years ago, would we actually be able to detect that they were here? It may sound like conspiracy theorist bait, but a serious and balanc...

Listener Mail: Goat of a Tumbleweed from 2022-01-17T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Funeral for a Bug from 2022-01-15T08:01

How do insects factor into our traditions of death -- and how do insects handle their own burials? Find out in this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind as Robert and Joe discuss ants, termit...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Lift from 2022-01-14T08:01

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe take a ride in Dutch filmmaker Dick Maas’ 1983 killer elevator movie “The Lift.” Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnet...

Tumbleweeds, Part 2: Riddles and Radiation from 2022-01-13T13:05

In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert and Joe explore the world of tumbleweeds. While it’s easy to dismiss these amazing plants as overused symbols of the American west, these detachab...

The Monstrefact: The Manticore from 2022-01-12T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the legendary Manticore… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for priva...

Tumbleweeds, Part 1: The Wind Witch from 2022-01-11T14:03

In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert and Joe explore the world of tumbleweeds. While it’s easy to dismiss these amazing plants as overused symbols of the American west, these detachab...

Listener Mail: Time Crabs from 2022-01-10T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Invention of the Lock&Key from 2022-01-08T08:01

The lock and key are such a central part of modern life, both technologically and metaphorically, but when and how did this technological advancement take place? In this Invention-themed episode of...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Son of the White Mare from 2022-01-07T08:01

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe explore Marcell Jankovics’ hallucinogenic animated masterpiece of Hungarian mythology: Fehérlófia, known to English-speaking audiences as “Son of t...

From the Vault: Sinkholes, Part 2 from 2022-01-06T08:01

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the science and history of sinkholes. How have these impressive geographic features impacted our world, and what can they ...

The Artifact Redux: Edible Currencies from 2022-01-05T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses money you can eat or drink... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for pri...

From the Vault: Sinkholes, Part 1 from 2022-01-04T08:01

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the science and history of sinkholes. How have these impressive geographic features impacted our world, and what can they ...

Happy New Year from 2022-01-03T08:01

Robert and Joe are still on break, but here's an update on what you'll hear this week. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for priv...

From the Vault: Heavy Water from 2022-01-01T08:01

Nope, “Heavy Water” isn’t the new bottled beverage for headbangers. It’s actually an alternate form of water called deuterium oxide that plays a key role in nuclear power plants and the creation of...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Robot Jox from 2021-12-31T08:01

What if the nations of the Earth solved all their problems with giant robot gladiatorial battles? That’s the concept behind 1990’s “Robot Jox,” directed by horror wizard Stuart Gordon and written b...

From the Vault: The Toaster Not Taken from 2021-12-30T08:01

It’s obvious that our preferences guide our choices, but do our choices also determine our preferences? In this classic episode, join Robert and Joe as they explore this question with the help of a...

The Artifact Redux: Stone Mushroom Clouds from 2021-12-29T08:01

In this classic episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Joe talks about mind-boggling prehistoric mineral formations. (originally published 2/10/2021) Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.ihe...

From the Vault: Toy Guns from 2021-12-28T08:01

For many of us, toy guns were part of our childhood, but how are we to think about them today? In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe look at some of the current thinkin...

Holiday Break from 2021-12-27T08:01

Stuff to Blow Your Mind is off for the week, but Robert and Joe take a few minutes to discuss the classic episodes that will be showcased in the feed. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://...

From the Vault: Holiday Inventions from 2021-12-25T08:01

Once more, Stuff to Blow Your Mind leans into the holidays -- this time for an invention-minded episode about some of the technologies that bring the winter holidays to life. Join Robert and Joe as...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Battle for Endor from 2021-12-24T08:01

The Star Wars franchise is home to many cinematic entries some consider to be unnatural. In this classic episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1985 made-for-TV film “Ewoks: The Batt...

A Major Award: The Ancient and Occult History of the “A Christmas Story” Leg Lamp from 2021-12-23T08:01

The 1983 holiday film “A Christmas Story” warned us of the dangers associated with BB guns, bar soap and frozen flag poles – but it also introduced us to the Old Man’s prized leg lamp. In this epis...

The Monstrefact: Holiday edition from 2021-12-22T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses a surprise holiday monster... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for ...

Time Traveler Zero, Part 2 from 2021-12-21T14:55:33

Today, time travel fiction is everywhere – and we understand the cosmos enough to even speculate what is and isn’t possible. But how old is the notion of travel through time? What sorts of attitude...

Listener Mail: Holidays on Ice-Nine from 2021-12-20T14:59:51

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Like a Circle in a Spiral, Part 2 from 2021-12-18T08:01

You might consider spinning around in a circle either great fun or a one-way ticket to barf town, but spinning and whirling are also tied to childhood development, artistic expression and the pursu...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Morozko (aka Jack Frost) from 2021-12-17T14:48

This week on Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the classic 1960s Russian fairy tale spectacular “Morozko,” better known to many fans as “Jack Frost.” It’s a tale of love, evil stepmothers, mus...

Music and Memory from 2021-12-16T08:01

We all know music can influence our moods, but can it actually boost our memory? How do musical memories emerge at the borders of identity, experience and culture? In this episode of Stuff to Blow ...

Smart Talks with IBM and Malcolm Gladwell: Managing supply chain volatility in the height of the shopping season from 2021-12-15T08:01

Global supply chains have made headlines this year, with businesses in every industry and consumers all experiencing unprecedented volatility. How can companies stabilize this boundless bullwhip? I...

Time Traveler Zero, Part 1 from 2021-12-14T08:01

Today, time travel fiction is everywhere – and we understand the cosmos enough to even speculate what is and isn’t possible. But how old is the notion of travel through time? What sorts of attitude...

Listener Mail: Crab Walking Down Human Street from 2021-12-13T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Like a Circle in a Spiral, Part 1 from 2021-12-11T08:01

You might consider spinning around in a circle either great fun or a one-way ticket to barf town, but spinning and whirling are also tied to childhood development, artistic expression and the pursu...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Bloodbeat from 2021-12-10T08:01

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe consider their first holiday horror film selection: 1983’s “Bloodbeat.” Filmed in Wisconsin, the film explores the complexity of holiday family tim...

Daniel Whiteson, Time Traveler from 2021-12-09T08:01

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe welcome back Daniel Whiteson, particle physicist and co-host of Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe. Tune in for a discussion of time tr...

Smart Talks with IBM and Malcolm Gladwell: What does the future of sustainability look like for your company and your customers? from 2021-12-08T08:01

Today, consumers, businesses and governments are united in their sense of urgency about the sustainability of the planet. But how do we go about achieving it? In this episode of Smart Talks, Malcol...

2021 Ig Nobel Prize Grab Bag, Part 2 from 2021-12-07T19:54:17

Once more, Robert and Joe consult the winners of the Ig-Nobel Prizes for a few examples of the hilarious and the weird from the world of legitimate scientific research. Learn more about your ad-c...

Listener Mail: The Funk of 40,000 Years from 2021-12-06T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Airships Over Venus from 2021-12-04T08:01

Planet Earth a bit much for you right now? Well venture back out to Venus on Stuff to Blow Your Mind. Join Robert and Joe as they discuss recent news in the search for possible signs of life in the...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Super Infra-Man from 2021-12-03T15:40:13

It’s time to dive back into the Shaw Brothers cinematic treasure chest, this time for the sci-fi action film “The Super Infra-Man” starring Danny Lee and a whole bunch of monsters and stylish costu...

2021 Ig Nobel Prize Grab Bag, Part 1 from 2021-12-02T20:31:24

Once more, Robert and Joe consult the winners of the Ig-Nobel Prizes for a few examples of the hilarious and the weird from the world of legitimate scientific research. Learn more about your ad-c...

The Artifact: Malaysian Spirit Boats from 2021-12-01T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses a most nautical form of exorcism... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener f...

Crab Content is King from 2021-11-30T08:01

Stuff to Blow Your Mind is back from Thanksgiving break, so Robert and Joe discuss even more crab science and mythology. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSe...

Listener Mail: The Chosen Few from 2021-11-29T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Turkey, Wishbones and Gravy from 2021-11-27T08:01

In recognition of Thanksgiving, Robert and Joe devote this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind to the very topics that might float through your head at the dinner table: What is a wishbone, ...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Zaat from 2021-11-26T08:01

In celebration of MST3K Turkey Day, this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema from earlier this year explores a film from a beloved episode of MST3K. We consider the Florida Movie par excellence: 1971’s “Z...

From the Vault: Melt With Me from 2021-11-25T08:01

From the horror of “melt movies,” in which the melting human takes on nightmaric qualities, to far more benign and even sublime takes on the concept of the melt, there does seem to be something to ...

The Artifact Redux: The Sword of Gōu Jiàn from 2021-11-24T08:01

In this classic episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses an ancient Chinese sword noted for its unusual sharpness and resistance to tarnish... (originally published 2/17/2021) Learn more...

From the Vault: Invention of the Bed from 2021-11-23T08:01

We sure do spend a lot of time in bed, but what exactly IS a bed and what were ancient beds like? In this classic invention-based episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the anci...

Turkey Day Break from 2021-11-22T08:01

We're off this week, but don't let that stop you from having seconds on some classic content from last year. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio...

From the Vault: Mushroom Foraging, Part 2 from 2021-11-20T08:01

Are more people identifying and even foraging wild mushrooms than in previous years? If so, why is this? In these classic episodes of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe talk about mushroom for...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Dunwich Horror from 2021-11-19T14:31:44

It’s time for a hippie necronomicon extravaganza as Rob and Joe crack open 1970’s “The Dunwich Horror,” starring the late, great Dean Stockwell, Sandra Dee and Ed Begley Sr. Learn more about your...

Crabs Eat Everything Around Me, Part 2 from 2021-11-18T18:47:04

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe talk about crabs eating things. Do YOU have what it takes to become a delicious entree for crab gourmands? Find out! Learn more about yo...

Smart Talks with IBM and Malcolm Gladwell: How a Human-Centered Approach is Building Trustworthy AI from 2021-11-17T08:01

Creating trust and transparency in AI isn’t just a business requirement, it’s a social responsibility. In this episode of Smart Talks, Malcolm talks to Christina Montgomery, IBM's Chief Privacy Off...

Crabs Eat Everything Around Me, Part 1 from 2021-11-16T17:59:26

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe talk about crabs eating things. Do YOU have what it takes to become a delicious entree for crab gourmands? Find out! Learn more about yo...

Listener Mail: Let the Lamp Affix its Beam from 2021-11-15T08:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Mushroom Foraging, Part 1 from 2021-11-13T08:01

Are more people identifying and even foraging wild mushrooms than in previous years? If so, why is this? In these classic episodes of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe talk about mushroom for...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Venom (1981) from 2021-11-12T17:34:18

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe wrestle with their first full-blown snake movie: 1981’s “Venom.” It stars Oliver Reed, Klaus Kinski and a live black mamba snake from the London Zo...

Dune: The Bene Gesserit and the Spacing Guild from 2021-11-11T20:18:37

In this Dune-inspired episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe pick up where they left off in the last episode discussing the politics, philosophy and pain science of the Bene Gesserit, b...

The Monstrefact: Chairdogs of Dune from 2021-11-10T08:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses one of the less known creatures from Frank Herbert’s “Dune” books… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwor...

Dune: The Bene Gesserit from 2021-11-09T17:52:59

The Bene Gesserit of Frank Herbert’s “Dune” use advanced mental and manipulative tactics to further their ends across the galaxy. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss ...

Listener Mail: Halloween Final Processing from 2021-11-08T15:46:35

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: I Want a New Blood from 2021-11-06T07:01

From fictional tales of vampire thrust to to real-life medical research, the notion of synthetic blood brings with it a lot of possibilities. In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Rob...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Highway to Hell from 2021-11-05T13:51

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe take a very MTV-fueled jaunt into the underworld via the 1991 film “Highway to Hell,” an enjoyable horror comedy that features a terrifying Hellcop...

Barbara Blatchley on Why We Believe in Luck from 2021-11-04T13:56:16

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert chats with Barbara Blatchley about her book “What are the Chances? Why We Believe in Luck.” Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.ihea...

Smart Talks with IBM and Malcolm Gladwell: Quantum Computing is Tomorrow’s Computing, Today from 2021-11-03T07:01

Over the next decade, quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize the way we work and live. In this episode of Smart Talks, Malcolm talks to Dr. Darío Gil, Senior Vice President and Direct...

Anthology of Horror, Volume 7 from 2021-11-02T14:47:17

Yes, the Halloween tradition continues as, once more, Robert and Joe dive into the rich history of TV horror and sci-fi anthology series to focus on STBYM topics they might not otherwise get to dis...

Listener Mail: Out of the Pair Dadeni from 2021-11-01T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Leshii from 2021-10-30T07:01

According to Russian folklore, ancient, beastial spirits guard the depths of the forest, raging with each other and punishing any human who might break the law of the forest. In this classic episod...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The House by the Cemetery from 2021-10-29T15:59:58

As Weirdhouse Cinema completes its first journey around the sun, Rob and Joe commemorate the moment by discussing Lucio Fulci’s 1981 “The House by the Cemetery” -- a bloody and bonkers tale guarant...

The Invention of the Chainsaw, Part 2 from 2021-10-28T13:50:53

In today’s invention-themed episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss an important piece of cutting technology. Plus, during the Halloween season, masked brutes will chase you arou...

The Monstrefact: Weretigers of China from 2021-10-27T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the Chinese weretiger… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy...

The Invention of the Chainsaw, Part 1 from 2021-10-26T16:56:12

In today’s invention-themed episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss an important piece of cutting technology. Plus, during the Halloween season, masked brutes will chase you arou...

Listener Mail: The Night’s Plutonian Shore from 2021-10-25T14:41:24

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Anthology of Horror, Volume 5 from 2021-10-23T07:01

The Halloween tradition continues as, once more, Robert and Joe dive into the rich history of TV horror and sci-fi anthology series to focus on the STBYM topics they might not otherwise get to disc...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Black Sabbath from 2021-10-22T14:08:42

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss Mario Bava’s colorful anthology of gothic horror, starring the legendary Boris Karloff. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.i...

The Holy Undead, Part 2 from 2021-10-21T15:49:05

We tend to relegate zombies and the walking dead to the infernal realm of demons, necromancers and the emptied charnel houses of Hell. So it might surprise you to know that, in some traditions, rea...

The Monstrefact: Chiseltooth from 2021-10-20T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the monster Chiseltooth from Chinese mythology… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio...

The Holy Undead, Part 1 from 2021-10-19T16:25:24

We tend to relegate zombies and the walking dead to the infernal realm of demons, necromancers and the emptied charnel houses of Hell. So it might surprise you to know that, in some traditions, rea...

Listener Mail: Through the Pale Door from 2021-10-18T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Anthology of Horror, Volume 4 from 2021-10-16T07:01

The Halloween tradition continues as, once more, Robert and Joe dive into the rich history of TV horror and sci-fi anthology series to focus on the STBYM topics they might not otherwise get to disc...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Halloween III from 2021-10-15T15:57:42

If the many-worlds interpretation holds true, then there’s an alternate timeline in which the tyranny of Michael Myers ended in 1981 and 1982’s “Halloween III: Season of the Witch” ushered in a new...

Ghosts of the Wind and Rain from 2021-10-14T17:39:38

Strange presences walk the shore before the coming of the storm. Terrible forms move in its wake. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss a wide selection of ghosts and m...

The Monstrefact: The Boxenwolf from 2021-10-13T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the horror of the Boxenwolf… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for p...

The Science of Scary Music from 2021-10-12T16:41:52

Why do certain works of music make our skin crawl? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Joe chats with producer Seth about the science of scary music and Seth tells everyone about his new mu...

Listener Mail: Seraphs Sob at Vermin Fangs from 2021-10-11T13:43:33

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Minotaur, Part 3 from 2021-10-09T07:01

Take the Minotaur out of its maze and you have but another beast man -- but within his manufactured environment, he is a singular terror in myth and popular consciousness. But where does this monst...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Demon Knight from 2021-10-08T07:01

Yes, kiddies, in this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss Ernest Dickerson’s 1995 siege movie “Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight.” Strap in for grotesque monsters, a whole host of ch...

From the Vault: The Minotaur, Part 2 from 2021-10-07T07:01

To fully understand the minotaur myth, we also have to consider the Minoan civilization of Crete. In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe chat with Professor Nicoletta Mo...

Smart Talks with IBM and Malcolm Gladwell: Accelerating Innovation with Hybrid Cloud ​at the Edge from 2021-10-06T07:01

The world is hitting a data tipping point where vast connectivity requires massive network capacity. In this episode of Smart Talks, Malcolm Gladwell talks to David Shacochis, Vice President for En...

From the Vault: The Minotaur, Part 1 from 2021-10-05T07:01

Take the Minotaur out of its maze and you have but another beast man -- but within his manufactured environment, he is a singular terror in myth and popular consciousness. But where does this monst...

Listener Mail: Fall Break! from 2021-10-04T07:01

Stuff to Blow Your Mind is off for the week, but Robert and Joe take a few minutes to discuss the classic episodes that will be showcased in the feed. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://...

From the Vault: Science in the House of Wax from 2021-10-02T07:01

Wax Museums are frequent haunts in horror cinema, but where do they really tie into our sense of revulsion and anatomical unease? In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe ...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Santo in the Treasure of Dracula from 2021-10-01T07:01

In this classic episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe dive into one of Mexican luchador El Santo's various horror cinema adventures -- and not just any Santo film but the legendary "Santo In Th...

Bill Schutt talks "Pump: A Natural History of the Heart" from 2021-09-30T07:01

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert chats with Bill Schutt, author of "Pump: A Natural History of the Heart," about the evolution of the heart and the history of humanity’s attempt t...

The Monstrefact: The Lindworm from 2021-09-29T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the legend of the lindworm and the 19th century Swedish ethnologist who searched for it … Learn more about your ad-choices at https://...

God and the Black Death, Part 3 from 2021-09-28T15:49

The Black Death was the most fatal pandemic in recorded human history, decimating a late Medieval world unaided by the germ theory of disease. In this episode of Stuff to Blow your Mind, Robert and...

Listener Mail: Time Passages from 2021-09-27T13:44:16

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Atomic Scar from 2021-09-25T07:01

The creation of atomic weaponry changed human civilization forever, but it also left its mark on the Earth itself -- in both obvious and subtle ways. In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your M...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Thing from Another World from 2021-09-24T14:10

Before John Carpenter’s “The Thing,” there was Howard Hawks’ “The Thing From Another World,” the first adaptation of John W. Campbell Jr.’s short story “Who goes there?” In this episode of Weirdhou...

God and the Black Death, Part 2 from 2021-09-23T17:53:29

The Black Death was the most fatal pandemic in recorded human history, decimating a late Medieval world unaided by the germ theory of disease. In this episode of Stuff to Blow your Mind, Robert and...

The Monstrefact: Fell Beasts of the Nazgûl from 2021-09-22T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the winged beasts of the Nazgûl in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings.” Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpod...

God and the Black Death, Part 1 from 2021-09-21T17:10:52

The Black Death was the most fatal pandemic in recorded human history, decimating a late Medieval world unaided by the germ theory of disease. In this episode of Stuff to Blow your Mind, Robert and...

Listener Mail: Songs from the Big Chair from 2021-09-20T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Night of the Lichen-thropes from 2021-09-18T07:01

Lichen are incredibly widespread and easy to take for granted, but these composite organisms are some of the most fascinating lifeforms on the planet. In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your ...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Time After Time from 2021-09-17T16:10:24

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss 1979’s “Time After Time,” in which Jack the Ripper steals H.G. Wells’ time machine and travels to modern San Francisco. Learn more about ...

The Nature of Tears, Part 3 from 2021-09-16T16:37:04

What are tears? Are humans indeed the only animal that wraps and what purpose do they serve? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the topic of tears from a scientific ...

The Monstrefact: El Coco from 2021-09-15T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses the Spanish nursery bogeyman known as El Coco… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio....

Mary Roach Discusses "Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law" from 2021-09-14T15:40:42

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe welcome acclaimed science writer Mary Roach back to the show to discuss her new book "Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law." Learn more abou...

Listener Mail: Songs from the Wood from 2021-09-13T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Livewired Brain with David Eagleman from 2021-09-11T07:01

What does our growing understanding of neuroplasticity reveal about our brains and the future of technology? In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert chats with neuroscientist Dav...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Spookies from 2021-09-10T07:01

Yep, 1986 was a great year for genre movies — and also “Spookies” came out. In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe consider this overstuffed and underdone turkey of a horror movie. Lea...

The Nature of Tears, Part 2 from 2021-09-09T04:00

What are tears? Are humans indeed the only animal that wraps and what purpose do they serve? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the topic of tears from a scientific ...

The Monstrefact: Katcheet Ohuskw from 2021-09-08T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses a murderous monster from Naskapi legend. Plus Benjamin Franklin shows up... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodc...

The Nature of Tears, Part 1 from 2021-09-07T16:42:26

What are tears? Are humans indeed the only animal that wraps and what purpose do they serve? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the topic of tears from a scientific ...

Listener Mail: The Constant Flow of Invention from 2021-09-06T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Fingernails, Part 2 from 2021-09-04T07:01

How fast do human fingernails and toenails grow? Are they claws and, if not, what are they? In this classic Stuff to Blow Your Mind exploration, Robert and Joe dive into the anatomy, evolution cult...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Ship of Monsters from 2021-09-03T07:01

Are you ready for a 1960 Mexican sci-fi comedy involving multiple alien monsters, space vampires, interplanetary politics and several música norteña songs? Also a robot falls in love with a jukebox...

Creature of the Gear from 2021-09-02T14:50:32

What is a gear and when did humans invent it? Plus, Rob and Joe discuss the only known creature to have gears in its anatomy. Plus hear about a couple of wheel-based mythical creatures in this epis...

The Monstrefact: The Satanic Rites of Drugula from 2021-09-01T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Monstrefact, Robert discusses possible science of the vampire Drugula… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/li...

The Dog with the Burning Brand from 2021-08-31T14:53:02

From dogs in old paintings that look like dope smokers to Aztec psychopomps, what’s with all these fire dogs? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore… Learn more about ...

Listener Mail: Sky Raisins from 2021-08-30T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Fingernails, Part 1 from 2021-08-28T07:01

How fast do human fingernails and toenails grow? Are they claws and, if not, what are they? In this classic Stuff to Blow Your Mind exploration, Robert and Joe dive into the anatomy, evolution cult...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Psychomania from 2021-08-27T15:17:09

How can the British public possibly survive the ravages of youth biker gangs, unholy rites and frog-based necromancy? In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1973 British supe...

The Fish Had Fur, Part 2 from 2021-08-26T15:36:36

Fish covered in thick coats of fur, fish with strange spines, fish with the beard or chin whiskers of a wise old sage… The water offers up many mysteries, and in this episode of Stuff to Blow Your ...

The Artifact: The Meister “Footprint” from 2021-08-25T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses so-called Meister footprint (which is in no way an actual footprint)... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetw...

The Fish Had Fur, Part 1 from 2021-08-24T16:09:35

Fish covered in thick coats of fur, fish with strange spines, fish with the beard or chin whiskers of a wise old sage… The water offers up many mysteries, and in this episode of Stuff to Blow Your ...

Listener Mail: The Face That is Gazed on as it Gazes from 2021-08-23T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Orcs in the Deep from 2021-08-21T07:01

In this classic episode of STBYM, Robert and Joe discuss the orcs of Middle Earth and their origins both in the dark corners of the human imagination and the loathsome pits of Utumno. (originally p...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Return of the Blind Dead from 2021-08-20T07:01

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the stand-alone, second installment of Spanish director Amando de Ossorio’s “Blind Dead'' series from 1973. The sightless revenants of the ...

From the Vault: Tomato, Tomato, Part 2 from 2021-08-19T07:01

While the so-called “golden apple” has at times been viewed with suspicion, it has become a staple of summertime cuisine and may one day follow us to farms on other worlds. In this classic episode ...

The Artifact: The Bazooka from 2021-08-18T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses the bazooka and whether it is ever OK to bring one on a commercial flight… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastn...

The Invention of the Mirror, Part 4 from 2021-08-17T16:22:41

Smoking pools of dark reflection. Propagator of uncanny doubles. Gateway to inverse kingdom. It’s time for Stuff to Blow Your Mind to venture into the world of mirrors, discussing their predecessor...

Listener Mail: Near-death by Saxon from 2021-08-16T16:15:16

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Tomato, Tomato, Part 1 from 2021-08-14T07:01

While the so-called “golden apple” has at times been viewed with suspicion, it has become a staple of summertime cuisine and may one day follow us to farms on other worlds. In this classic episode ...

Weirdhouse Cinema: The Keepers (Russian Lord of the Rings) from 2021-08-13T15:50:04

It’s time for Weirdhoues Cinema to return to the world of Russian cinema and also to… Middle Earth? Yes, let’s bask in the glory of “Khraniteli” AKA “The Keepers” AKA that 1991 Leningrad Television...

The Invention of the Mirror, Part 3 from 2021-08-12T19:00:46

Smoking pools of dark reflection. Propagator of uncanny doubles. Gateway to inverse kingdom. It’s time for Stuff to Blow Your Mind to venture into the world of mirrors, discussing their predecessor...

The Artifact: Sharur the Talking Mace from 2021-08-11T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses Sharur, the talking mace from Sumerian mythology… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio....

The Invention of the Mirror, Part 2 from 2021-08-10T15:57:25

Smoking pools of dark reflection. Propagator of uncanny doubles. Gateway to inverse kingdom. It’s time for Stuff to Blow Your Mind to venture into the world of mirrors, discussing their predecessor...

Listener Mail: Stormbringer from 2021-08-09T14:06:54

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Astronomical Suffering and the Terran Diaspora from 2021-08-07T07:01

For many futurists, the long term survival of humanity depends on its ability to become a true interplanetary and even interstellar species. But what is the potential moral cost of such a great tec...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Cannibal Apocalypse from 2021-08-06T13:00:17

Can John Saxon resist the viral hunger for human flesh? In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss 1980’s “Cannibal Apocalypse,” a Spanish/Italian cannibal thriller filmed in Atlanta...

The Invention of the Mirror, Part 1 from 2021-08-05T19:52:41

Smoking pools of dark reflection. Propagator of uncanny doubles. Gateway to inverse kingdom. It’s time for Stuff to Blow Your Mind to venture into the world of mirrors, discussing their predecessor...

Smart Talks with IBM and Malcolm Gladwell: An Open Conversation about Open Innovation from 2021-08-04T07:01

In this episode of Smart Talks, Malcolm talks to Jim Whitehurst, senior advisor at IBM and an expert in open source software and innovation. During their conversation, Jim reveals how embracing mom...

Regression to the Mean from 2021-08-03T15:57:06

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss regression to the mean, a phenomenon that occurs when a random sampling point is an outlier -- with applications to everything fro...

Listener Mail: Gremlins Have Pictures from 2021-08-02T13:55:09

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Pykrete from 2021-07-31T07:01

Whether plotting to build a great northern wall or an aircraft carrier made of ice instead of steel, the substance you’re looking for is Pykrete. In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind,...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Deep Blue Sea from 2021-07-30T18:11:46

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1999 shark film “Deep Blue Sea” in which super-smart sharks run wild in a sea base. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.i...

Whispers of the Speaking Sword from 2021-07-29T15:44:07

Weapons capable of thought, speech and autonomous action appear throughout multiple myths and legends. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore some stand-out examples and...

The Artifact: The Horse Skull Under the Floor from 2021-07-28T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses the practice of placing horse skulls underneath your floorboards… Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.co...

From the Vault: The Monoliths of Lalibela from 2021-07-27T07:01

Lalibela, Ethiopia is home to one of the true wonders of the world: a series of 11 rock-hewn monolithic churches -- all interconnected by tunnels and passages that connect to catacombs and hermit c...

Listener Mail: Centaur on Fire from 2021-07-26T14:42:15

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Spotlight Effect from 2021-07-24T07:01

Ever feel like everyone in the Zoom call is looking at you? Ever astonished to find your contribution to a project goes unrecognized, or that your latest faux pas didn’t destroy you? Perhaps you’re...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Spontaneous Combustion from 2021-07-23T20:13:47

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe celebrate legendary weird actor Brad Dourif by watching his talent burn through in Tobe Hooper’s flawed tale of love, rage and pyrokinesis. Learn...

The Waiting, Part 3 from 2021-07-22T17:59:41

In this episode of the Stuff to Blow Your Mind podcast, Robert and Joe discuss waiting in line and psychology of queuing up. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.c...

The Waiting, Part 2 from 2021-07-21T07:01

In this episode of the Stuff to Blow Your Mind podcast, Robert and Joe discuss waiting in line and psychology of queuing up. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.c...

Listener Mail: It's a Cold Night For Alligators from 2021-07-20T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

The Artifact: Boiling Tar and Murder Holes from 2021-07-19T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses the meurtrière or “murder hole” found in the ceiling of a a fortress’s gateway or passageway -- and what you might push through it... Lea...

From the Vault: Volcanoes of Life from 2021-07-17T07:01

From our earliest experiences with paleoart to tales of Pompeii and visions of modern catastrophes, it’s easy to associate volcanoes with death and destruction. But what if it’s less a case of Moun...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Godzilla vs. Hedorah from 2021-07-16T07:01

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss 1971’s “Godzilla vs. Hedorah,” also known as “Godzilla vs. the Smog Monster.” The king of all monsters tears it up with a pollution-powered...

The Waiting, Part 1 from 2021-07-15T17:11:20

In this episode of the Stuff to Blow Your Mind podcast, Robert and Joe discuss waiting in line and psychology of queuing up. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.c...

The Artifact: The Blood Gutter from 2021-07-14T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses the fuller, a groove found in many blades that you might have heard referred to as a “blood gutter.” Learn more about your ad-choices at ...

Ancient Pacific Navigation, Part 3 from 2021-07-13T15:41:37

The original discoverers of the Polynesian Islands traversed a vast ocean, bringing civilization to islands untouched by human activity. How did they do it? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind three-pa...

Listener Mail: That Sweaty Horse Light from 2021-07-12T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Heaven and Hell with Bart Ehrman from 2021-07-10T07:01

Majorities of Americans believe in the literal existence of Heaven and Hell, but where did these concepts originally come from, and how have they changed over the centuries? In this classic episode...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Mr. Vampire from 2021-07-09T17:36

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss the 1985 Hong Kong comedy horror film “Mr. Vampire,” in which our heroes use kicks, furniture rice and Taoist sorcery against the deadly Ch...

Ancient Pacific Navigation, Part 2 from 2021-07-08T15:05:02

The original discoverers of the Polynesian Islands traversed a vast ocean, bringing civilization to islands untouched by human activity. How did they do it? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind three-pa...

Ancient Pacific Navigation, Part 1 from 2021-07-07T13:37:26

The original discoverers of the Polynesian Islands traversed a vast ocean, bringing civilization to islands untouched by human activity. How did they do it? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-part...

The Artifact: The Sugar Light from 2021-07-06T14:39:29

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Joe reads by the light of a sugar cube and a sweaty horse. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/list...

Listener Mail: Hurdy Gurdy Man from 2021-07-05T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Invention of Fireworks from 2021-07-03T07:01

Fireworks are a staple of celebrations around the world, but where does this invention come from and what’s the basic chemistry of their combustion? In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mi...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Devil's Express from 2021-07-02T19:28

An ancient demon haunts the subways of New York City. Only one man has the martial arts skill to battle the creature in the depths. On this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss this we...

The Plague of Mucus from 2021-07-01T14:48:19

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the organic substance that has been referred to in the scientific literature as “marine mucilage.” Prepare to be slimed. Learn m...

The Artifact: The Shining Pyramid from 2021-06-30T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses the Great Pyramid of Giza and its original luster. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio...

A Chat About Sea Turtles with Christine Figgener from 2021-06-29T15:18

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss sea turtle mysteries, biology, research and conservation with sea turtle researcher and conservationist Dr. Christine Figgener. ...

Listener Mail: Veteran of the Psychic Wars from 2021-06-28T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: The Tide of Gold from 2021-06-26T07:01

Gold from the ocean? In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore the basic idea behind the accumulation of oceanic gold and the fascinating historical hoax based on t...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Doctor X from 2021-06-25T07:01

Welcome to the medical academy where EVERYONE is a suspect in the cannibalistic “Moon Killer” slayings. Yes, from the director of “Casablanca” comes 1932’s “Doctor X.” Join Rob and Joe for a deep g...

From the Vault: The Interior World from 2021-06-24T07:01

Most of us have spent far more time at home this year, which raises the question: Just what sort of artificial interior environments have we created? What lives there besides our family and pets? A...

The Artifact Revisited: Stone Mushroom Clouds from 2021-06-23T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Joe talks about mind-boggling prehistoric mineral formations. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/l...

From the Vault: How does travel engage the senses? from 2021-06-22T07:01

Travel has long inspired the mind and engaged the senses, but just what's going on in the human body when we venture near or far? In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe ...

Please Stand By from 2021-06-21T07:01

Robert and Joe jump in a for a short update on this week's programing. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the Vault: Kimchi from 2021-06-19T07:01

What exactly is kimchi and what is the chemistry of its deliciousness? In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore this spicy, fermented staple of Korean cuisine. (or...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Deathmoon from 2021-06-18T07:01

When you think of movies filmed in Hawaii, you probably think of vacation flicks and dramas, but has the Aloha state ever given us a werewolf film? Yep, in this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob an...

Where do numbers come from? from 2021-06-17T10:49:48

Join Robert and Joe as they continue their discussion on numeracy and the origins of numerals on Stuff to Blow Your Mind. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comS...

The Artifact Revisited: The Psychedelic Blindfold from 2021-06-16T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Joe talks about a 2004 study of blindfolding and visual hallucinations. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnyst...

The Origins of Numeracy from 2021-06-15T16:26:52

What are numbers and where does our number sense come from? Is numeracy an innate part of our biology, or is it a cultural invention? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe expl...

Listener Mail: Fume Cupboard from 2021-06-14T13:20:11

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Cancer and Evolution with Kat Arney from 2021-06-12T07:01

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Joe chats with Kat Arney about her upcoming book "Rebel Cell: Cancer, Evolution, and the New Science of Life's Oldest Betrayal." (originally publ...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Metalstorm from 2021-06-11T07:01

It’s time to get Road Warrior-esque! In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe consider Charles Band’s 1983 3D sci-fi film “Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn,” starring Richard Moll,...

Musical Frisson with Seth of Record Store Society from 2021-06-10T19:03:12

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Joe is joined by producer and host of the Record Store Society podcast Seth Nicholas Johnson to talk about that moment when a song sends a shiver down yo...

Smart Talks with IBM and Malcolm Gladwell: Couch vs. cubicle: is the future of work hybrid? from 2021-06-09T07:01

Remote working has kept many businesses afloat over the last year, but has it kept employees productive, enthusiastic, and inspired? In this special episode of Smart Talks, recorded at IBM’s Think ...

The Moonless Skies of Mercury and Venus from 2021-06-08T07:01

Moons are a popular accessory for the outer planets in our solar system, but Mercury and Venus are suspiciously unadorned. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss why the...

Listener Mail: Cat Comfort from 2021-06-07T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Ant Wars, Episode 3 from 2021-06-05T07:01

The war has raged for at least 100 million years. Armored warriors boil up out of the ground and surge across the battlefield. Mandibles clash. Bodies are torn asunder. As the will of one colony cl...

Weirdhouse Cinema Rewind: Without Warning from 2021-06-04T07:01

In this classic episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss "Without Warning," a perfectly serviceable sci-fi horror film directed by Greydon Clark. The year is 1980 and only a delusional Mar...

From the Vault: Ant Wars, Episode 2 from 2021-06-03T07:01

The war has raged for at least 100 million years. Armored warriors boil up out of the ground and surge across the battlefield. Mandibles clash. Bodies are torn asunder. As the will of one colony cl...

Smart Talks with IBM and Malcolm Gladwell: Can AI be empathetic? Reinventing client experiences from 2021-06-02T07:01

In a time that’s been challenging for everyone, perhaps no other industry has been hit harder than healthcare. Anthem, one of America’s leading health benefits companies, needed to be ready to answ...

From the Vault: Ant Wars, Episode 1 from 2021-06-01T07:01

The war has raged for at least 100 million years. Armored warriors boil up out of the ground and surge across the battlefield. Mandibles clash. Bodies are torn asunder. As the will of one colony cl...

Summer Vacation! from 2021-05-31T07:01

Stuff to Blow Your Mind is off for the week, but Robert and Joe take a few minutes to discuss the classic episodes that will be showcased in the feed. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://...

From the Vault: Into the Egg Chamber from 2021-05-29T07:01

Eggs are amazing and some of the varieties we find in nature are wonderfully weird, riveling or exceeding anything you’d ever find on a fictional derelict spaceship. In this episode of Stuff to Blo...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Hanuman vs. 7 Ultraman from 2021-05-28T07:01

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe consider the 1974 Thai co-production "Hanuman vs.&Ultraman," in which the hindu god Hanuman teams up with the Ultra Seven to defeat evil monsters a...

Aniconism, Images and the Divine: Part 2 from 2021-05-27T15:09:48

Examples of aniconism -- the avoidance of images or idols -- can be found across multiple religions But what does it DO? What does it mean to employ religious icons or to avoid them in the contempl...

The Artifact: The Theropod Gap from 2021-05-26T18:30:49

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Joe looks at an intriguing question about missing carnivorous dinosaurs. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnys...

Aniconism, Images and the Divine: Part 1 from 2021-05-25T12:59:30

Examples of aniconism -- the avoidance of images or idols -- can be found across multiple religions But what does it DO? What does it mean to employ religious icons or to avoid them in the contempl...

Listener Mail: Sole Survivor from 2021-05-24T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Subterrenes from 2021-05-22T07:01

The notion of a subterrene, or underground drilling vehicle, is well established within the realm of science fiction, but what are the real-world possibilities for vehicles that drill or melt their...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Trancers II from 2021-05-21T07:01

It’s sequel time once more on Weirdhouse Cinema! Join Rob and Joe as they jump right into Charles Band’s 1991 sequel to Trancers, starring Tim Thomerson, Helen Hunt and the always villainous Richar...

Comfort in the Box: Human Edition from 2021-05-20T07:01

Why do cats like to sit in boxes? Why did humans use box-beds and are enclosed wooden beds really making a comeback? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert and Joe explore the mystery o...

The Artifact: Edible Currencies from 2021-05-19T07:01

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses money you can eat or drink... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for pri...

Comfort in the Box: Cat Edition from 2021-05-18T07:01

Why do cats like to sit in boxes? Why did humans use box-beds and are enclosed wooden beds really making a comeback? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert and Joe explore the mystery o...

Listener Mail: Princes of the Universe from 2021-05-17T07:01

Once more, it's time for a weekly dose of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and Weirdhouse Cinema listener mail... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com...

From the Vault: Invention of the Book, Part 2 from 2021-05-15T07:01

Books are one of humanity’s greatest inventions, but where do they come from? In this classic Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert and Joe explore the history of book technology, from ancient...

Weirdhouse Cinema: Shock Waves from 2021-05-14T07:01

In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe complete their trilogy of 70s Florida Movies with 1977’s “Shock Waves,” featuring Peter Cushing, John Carradine, Brooke Adams and a whole squad of ...

Reconsider the Bean, Part 2 from 2021-05-13T14:46

What are beans? Do they contain the souls of the dead? Can they be used to drive demons from the household? How important are they in the human diet? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Rob...

The Artifact: The Toad Vomit Miracle from 2021-05-12T14:23:51

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Joe discusses amphibian vomit as failed technology and natural wonder. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystu...

Reconsider the Bean, Part 1 from 2021-05-11T14:47:37

What are beans? Do they contain the souls of the dead? Can they be used to drive demons from the household? How important are they in the human diet? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Rob...

The Invention of the Book, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Books are one of humanity’s greatest inventions, but where do they come from? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert and Joe explore the history of book technology, from ancient clay ta...

The Fallacy of Alignment: Fundamental Attribution Error, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

How do we consider and predict the actions and intentions of others? How much do we lean on an individual’s presumed internal disposition versus the particulars of their situation? In this Stuff to...

Alien Abduction Experience, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What are we to make of alien abduction experiences? Scientific investigation points to a barrage of logical explanations for abnormal sensory experience, from sleep paralysis and temporal lobe anom...

Into the Ossuary: Consult the Bones - Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You and your skeleton are cordially invited to join your Stuff to Blow Your Mind hosts on an excursion into the bone-choked depths of the HowStuffWorks ossuary. What curious skulls and skeletal spe...

The Science of 'Prometheus' from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In this episode, Robert and Julie suit up and venture into the dark and Gigery heart of 'Prometheus.' They’ll examine the film’s futuristic science as well as some of its themes. And fear not! You’...

The Invention of the Book, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Books are one of humanity’s greatest inventions, but where do they come from? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert and Joe explore the history of book technology, from ancient clay ta...

The Fallacy of Alignment: Fundamental Attribution Error, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

How do we consider and predict the actions and intentions of others? How much do we lean on an individual’s presumed internal disposition versus the particulars of their situation? In this Stuff to...

The Science of Secrets from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Can you keep a secret? If so, what's the psychic weight of that secret? How does secret keeping fit into human evolution and the modern shape of human society? Join Robert and Joe as they discuss t...

Almost Blue from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Up in the sky and down in the ocean, blue is the endcap of our visuall existence.One that may even influence us subconsciously. Find out why this color is the ultimate magician, appearing mostly as...

Fiction: Reality's Secret Master from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

" Don't underestimate the power of the storyteller. His tale may begin with whimsy, but by the end of it he'll have changed the world you live in. He might even change who you are. In this episode,...

From the Vault: The Doppelganger Network from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss Doppelgangers, fairy imposters, the brain basis for the feeling of familiarity, and a unique way of understanding the impact of so...

Invention: Toilets, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Have you subscribed to Robert and Joe's other podcast INVENTION yet? If not, here's a taste of what they're up to in part 1 of their look at toilet technology, from the oldest latrine pit to the mo...

The Buddha is a Mountain from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

One of the largest historical statues in the world, China’s Lèsh?n Grand Buddha has overlooked the Dàdù river for 1200 years. Carved from the side of a mountain, this serene titan is a testament to...

So Cute I Could Eat You Up from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What do tears of joy and the desire to pinch a baby's cheek have to do with one another? Quite a lot. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, find out about dimorphous expressions, as well as t...

The Horror from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Horror: Why do we enjoy scary movies or a stroll through a haunted house? How is our response colored by our genes, evolution and culture? In this episode, Julie and Robert take a close look at...

Psychedelics Playlist: The Manifested Mind, Part 5 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What are psychedelics? How have these substances influenced human minds and culture? What exactly do they invoke in the brain and how could a renaissance of scientific study into their properties i...

The Sacred Mountain, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why do sacred mountains exist in so many cultures and myths? To what extent could high altitude conditions contribute to the way our mind processes these breathtaking environments? In this Stuff to...

Sharks of Summer (with Marah Hardt of ‘Sex in the Sea’) from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

If you watch enough 'Jaws' and Shark Week, you’re bound to see sharks as ravenous death machines. But is it really more appropriate to think of these ancient creatures as LIFE machines? In this ep...

Whisperings & ASMR from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Shhhh! Some of us are listening intently to a certain tone, one that sends waves of pleasure down our spine. It's called autonomous sensory meridian response. Robert and Julie explore, and while th...

The Bad Seed from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Tales of the enfant terrible have been with us for ages, terrifying us with the notion that strangeness in children portends something darker. But what does science have to say on the matter? Can c...

Psychedelics Playlist: The Manifested Mind, Part 4 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What are psychedelics? How have these substances influenced human minds and culture? What exactly do they invoke in the brain and how could a renaissance of scientific study into their properties i...

The Sacred Mountain, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why do sacred mountains exist in so many cultures and myths? To what extent could high altitude conditions contribute to the way our mind processes these breathtaking environments? In this Stuff to...

Svalbard: Land of Snow and Apocalypse Arks from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard has it all: glaciers, polar bears, scientific researchers and an epic seed vault built to survive the apocalypse. Join Robert and Christian as they discuss thi...

Extraordinary Science of 2014 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sex-reversed genitalia and tractor beams -- just a few of the extraordinary discoveries and breakthroughs of 2014. How have they changed our perception of the universe and ourselves? Join in on the...

The Sound Aquatic from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Underwater operas? Submerged speaker systems? Mysterious deep sea noises and the monsters who make them? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Julie explore the rich world of under...

Psychedelics Playlist: The Manifested Mind, Part 3 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What are psychedelics? How have these substances influenced human minds and culture? What exactly do they invoke in the brain and how could a renaissance of scientific study into their properties i...

From the Vault: Humanity's THC Odyssey from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Humans have known about cannabis for thousands of years, crafting hemp textiles and consuming its psychoactive THC. In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert Lamb and Christian Sag...

Summer Reading: Aliens, Microbes, Cocktails and More from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It's time once again for Robert, Joe and Christian to share a selection of fiction, nonfiction and comic book reads to enhance your summer travels -- or simply boost your reading list. Join your St...

Astonishing Science of 2014 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Find out what the most astonishing moments in science were in 2014 and why they may just be game-changers for humanity. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Asteroid Gold Rush from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Is there really gold in them there asteroids? Yes, and one private space company already has a three-step plan to suck them dry. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Julie explore...

Psychedelics Playlist: The Manifested Mind, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What are psychedelics? How have these substances influenced human minds and culture? What exactly do they invoke in the brain and how could a renaissance of scientific study into their properties i...

The Imp of the Perverse from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In 1845, Edgar Allan Poe wrote a tale about a man overcome by the compulsion to confess to the heinous crime he sought to keep secret. The conundrum pops up in other Poe tales as well, but the so c...

The Biophilia Hypothesis from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why are humans so drawn to the natural world of biodiverse organisms? Is this longing merely part of our culture or do we possess an innate and even genetic tendency to focus on life and lifelike p...

Sonic Illusions from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Imagine exploring a cave and discovering paintings that appear to come alive with a few claps of your hand. Enter the cave of forgotten sounds with Robert and Julie and they spelunk their way throu...

The Centaur with Two Hearts from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The mythical centaur represented man's dual nature -- and as one biologist points out, the creature would also need two hearts. In this episode, Robert and Julie discuss all things centaur, from th...

Psychedelics Playlist: The Manifested Mind, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What are psychedelics? How have these substances influenced human minds and culture? What exactly do they invoke in the brain and how could a renaissance of scientific study into their properties i...

The Pressure from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Atmospheric pressure. Water pressure. Geologic pressure. What exactly IS pressure and how do humans interact with it? Join Robert and Joe for a look at examples on and within planet Earth -- as wel...

Artificial Gravity: Cosmic Wheels and Hurtling Towers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Humans are creatures of gravity. We’re born into it. Life as we know it evolved to thrive in it. So what’s a gravitational organism to do in the low-gravity and zero-gravity expanses beyond Earth? ...

Brainhacking 101: New Year, New Habits from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

How long does it take to make or break a habit? Is this really the year you make major changes or learn a new craft? Robert and Julie break down the science of it all in this classic episode of Stu...

Summer Reading List from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Need new ideas for your summer reading? In this episode, Julie and Robert share their favorite books as well as a heads-up on what they intend to read this summer. Tune in to learn more about mind-...

Listener Mail: Hobbits, Gorgons and More from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It's time for another listener mail episode, this time with your thoughts on hobbits, gorgons, pointing and much more... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-adverti...

From the Vault: Bicameralism, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In 1976, psychologist Julian Jaynes presented the world with a stunning new take on the history of human consciousness. His book “The Origin of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind”...

Order out of Chaos: How to Create a Universe from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Numerous mythologies speak to the birth of our universe out of darkness and chaos, but can humans follow in the footsteps of the gods? Can we create a universe in the lab? In this episode of the St...

Dung Beetle Mania! from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Find out how and why dung beetles have been capitalizing on poop in a big way for 30 million years. Also, these little guys may be the world's tiniest astronomers. Robert and Julie reveal why. Lea...

Mitochondrial Eve from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

There's something awe-inspiring about the prospect of a primordial mother figure. Scientists actually discovered such a woman - and her ghost resides in the genetics of every living human. In this ...

Smart Talks with IBM: Rethinking Supply Chains from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The supply chain is vital to life in the modern world, and the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted this flow of goods and materials to a considerable degree. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind,...

Against Narrative: Are stories bad for us? Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It’s hard to imagine human beings without storytelling and literature. Surely, these are some of the very things that define us. Narratives give our lives and our world meaning, but what if there’s...

Cultural Appropriation from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

We’ve all heard charges of cultural appropriation in everything from fashion and music to personal world view, but what’s actually at stake here? What is cultural misappropriation, when does it hav...

Give the Gift of a Mystery Box from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Give the Gift of a Mystery Box: Why are mystery packages so appealing? How do they improve our mental faculties and fuel our creativity? In this episode, Julie and Robert share tales of sealed enve...

The Skin We Live In from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Our outer layer of flesh is beautiful, disgusting, painful and erotic. But what is it, exactly? What role does it play in anatomy and how will we change it in the future? In this episode, Robert an...

From the Vault: Send an Owl/Raven/Pigeon! from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Harry Potter sends messages by owl. The characters of ‘Game of Thrones’ employ ravens. Meanwhile, real-life messenger pigeons have carried messages for thousands of years. In this episode of Stuff ...

Against Narrative: Are stories bad for us? Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It’s hard to imagine human beings without storytelling and literature. Surely, these are some of the very things that define us. Narratives give our lives and our world meaning, but what if there’s...

Sword of the Samurai from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Appreciation for the katana cuts across cultures and genres, slicing into the hearts of history buffs, japanophiles, comic book fans and more. But what’s so special about the sword of the Samurai? ...

The Necessary Spice from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Spices are essentially chemical weapons. They protect a plant from animals and microbes. yet humans long ago learned to hack these defenses and use them to flavor their food. Join Robert and Julie ...

Nebula in a Box from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

We've all heard about panspermia, in which the building blocks of life theoretically travel to Earth from elsewhere. But from where, exactly? In this episode, Julie and Robert glimpse inside the ne...

Invention Playlist 4: Invented Words, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Where do new words come from? Robert and Joe explore... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

From the Vault: Bicameralism, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In 1976, psychologist Julian Jaynes presented the world with a stunning new take on the history of human consciousness. His book “The Origin of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind”...

Ticks, Mites and Mysterious Lone Star Illnesses from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ticks are, in the words of Pliny the Elder, 'the foulest and nastiest creature that be.' If these blood sucking arachnids and their mite brethren weren’t horrible enough, they’re second only to the...

Scrooge: Post-traumatic Embitterment Disorder from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Was Scrooge's bitterness an actual mental disorder? And was his visitation by the ghosts of the past, present and future his subconscious mind's attempt at DIY psychotherapy? Or did he merely spike...

Three Minutes Till Impact from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sure, your chances of going down in a plane crash are pretty slim -- but what if it actually happens? Without a parachute, how can you hope to survive a deadly drop to Earth's surface? In this epis...

Invention Playlist 4: Invented Words, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Where do new words come from? Robert and Joe explore... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

The Dark Crystal from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It’s time for another movie-themed episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind and this time Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick are bound for the world of Thra in Jim Henson’s 1982 masterpiece “The Dark Crystal....

CRISPR and the Genetic Astronaut from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In 1960, scientists Nathan Kline and Manfred Clynes envisioned a spacefaring cyborg, technologically augmented to endure the rigors of space travel. The subsequent six decades of space exploration ...

Deconstructing the Grinch from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Find out why the Grinch had the personality of a toadstool sandwich, with arsenic sauce. Robert and Julie explore the physiology of the Green One, not to mention his self-imposed social isolation, ...

Touching the Void: Psychedelics and Death from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Can psychedelic drugs help prepare terminal patients for death? Can MDMA ease the pain of dying through the ultimate transcendent experience? In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss what some res...

Invention Playlist 4: Barbed Wire from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You may very well encounter barbed wire everyday -- and, in all likelihood, you see THROUGH this flesh-ripping barrier. Where did this invention come from? How did it change the world? Robert and J...

Listener Mail: The Quickening from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Once more, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick bust out some listener mail -- with the aid of their mailboy Karny, who was accidently infected by the recent “Highlander 2” episode and is now displaying s...

Extended Cognition: Brain, Fingers, Web and Krang from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It’s easy to think yourself a mere brain within a human body -- a cognitive machine making sense out of all the incoming sense data from outside world. But what if other parts of the body and even ...

Mystery of the Antler from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why do deer and moose boast antlers? How does this material grow faster than any living vertebrate bones on Earth? You'd think we'd know the answers to these questions, but antlers remain far more ...

Invention Playlist 4: The Turnspit Dog from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe continue the month’s journey through human CULINARY techno-history -- this time with the story of the turnspit dog. This now-extinct breed of dog turned the meat in many a European k...

From the Vault: Eternal Youth, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Throughout history, humans have faced the inexorable process of aging and death. We’ve dreamt up countless myths to explain why we age and what comes of seeking immortality, but what does science t...

Name Thy Demons: The Roots of Human Violence from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Is human civilization growing less violent? Cognitive scientist Steven Pinker argued the point in his 2011 book 'The Better Angels of Our Nature,' in which he also defined the 'five inner demons' t...

Bring Your Own Oxygen from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What if you could suck all the oxygen out of a room with a nifty piece of material? Soon you may be able to with a crystalline material that stores, binds and releases oxygen. Find out how, and joi...

Space Junk in the Trunk from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

How much junk can we accumulate in Earth's orbit before we seal off our world? Before we cut the planet off from the cosmos and doom civilization to a new dark age? In this episode, Robert and Juli...

Invention Playlist 4: Penicillin from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

A fungal accident in the early 20th century opened the door for the medical wonders of the antibiotic age. In this episode, Robert and Joe explore what came before and how Alexander Fleming’s disco...

Flatus Ex Machina, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why is it so hilarious when robots and artificial intelligence fail? What does it reveal about comedy itself and our technological anxiety? Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick explore in this Stuff to Bl...

AI, Machine Learning and Human Creativity from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Just as manufacturing automation cuts into human jobs, the prospect of creative artificial intelligence raises the specter of robot writers, robot artists and robot musicians who never sleep and al...

The Future of Tattoos from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Whether you're a tattoo virgin or a sleeved-and-stamped ink enthusiast, there's no denying the cultural staying power of the tattoo. But where do we go from here? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Y...

Contact Lenses of the Gods from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Imagine a contact lens that displays data against your eyeball, delivering everything from sports scores to soap operas. Contact lens display technology may make this a reality. In this episode, Ro...

Invention Playlist 4: The Museum from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Where do museums come from? Explore their history in this episode... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Flatus Ex Machina, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why is it so hilarious when robots and artificial intelligence fail? What does it reveal about comedy itself and our technological anxiety? Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick explore in this Stuff to Bl...

Science Communication Breakdown from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Science enabled humans to ascend out of the darkness and tackle life’s problems with systematic, self-correcting rigidity. Yet, when faced with scientific consensus on climate change and other issu...

The Science of Tattoos from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Tattoos allow us to make the outer body reflect the inner self. In a life of flux, they allow us to make names, symbols, gods and ideas a semi-permanent part of corporeal form. Then again, they als...

Oh the Lucid Dreams we Weave ... from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Whether awake or dreaming, our neocortex is always shuffling about data and creating stories. But what if you could enter your dream and become the master of your fate? Join Julie and Robert as the...

Invention Playlist 4: Sun Glasses from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Shades didn't invent themselves. Robert and Joe explore their origins... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

From the Vault: Eternal Youth, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Throughout history, humans have faced the inexorable process of aging and death. We’ve dreamt up countless myths to explain why we age and what comes of seeking immortality, but what does science t...

There But For Science: Blood Navigation from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Imagine a world in which sailing ships navigate by the yelps of tormented dogs and nuclear submarines whisper to each other via the screams of rabbits and their murdered young? In both of these cas...

The Science of Comfort from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What does comfort mean to you? Thanksgiving dinner? A cup of tomato soup and a warm blanket? In this episode, Julie and Robert examine the particulars of comfort, why we crave it and what happens w...

Voyager and the Scale of our Solar System from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Voyager probes continue their journey toward the edge of our solar system, but how much distance have they covered? In this episode, Julie and Robert wrestle with the scale of our solar system,...

Invention Playlist 4: Chopsticks from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Chopsticks may seem like a basic invention, but this invention has a fascinating history... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

M.I.B. or N.I.B. ? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Belief in UFOs is very much like a religion. It can fulfill the same purpose in an individual's life, give them a community of believers and provide grander framework for mundane life. In this epis...

The Tower of Babel from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

An ancient people build a tower to touch the heavens. A vengeful god disrupts the project through the splintering of human language. Everyone’s left to pick up the pieces. The Tower of Babel myth r...

Surviving Thanksgiving from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You may not be the turkey on the chopping block, but holiday get-togethers with family can make you feel that way. Find out how to navigate the holiday in this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind. ...

The Odorous Language of Plants from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Do you speak the language of the carrots? From the screams of grass blades to the stink songs of carnivorous plants, the green kingdom is abuzz with the silent voices of plants. In this episode, Ro...

Invention Playlist 4: The Vending Machine from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It took my quarters and gave me candy, but who invented this machine? Find out... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Bugs Under The Skin from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ever feel like there are bugs crawling around in your body? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick explore alleged incidents, medical publications and the reality...

Neurosecurity: Dawn of the Brain Hackers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

While hackers and malware can certainly cause a great deal of damage and misery, these dangers can’t hurt us physically, right? In this episode of the Stuff to Blow Your Mind podcast, Robert and Jo...

Fecal Transplants and You from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What if you were suffering from a debilitating bacterial infection and you found out that pumping someone else's fecal matter into your rectum could vanquish it. Find out about fecal microbiota tra...

Illusions and Light from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The optical world we perceive is cast in illusion - and the properties of light itself dictate that reality. In this episode, Robert and Julie spin off a discussion of blue skies, sunlight and more...

Invention Playlist 4: Guillotine from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It cuts heads off, but who invented it? Robert and Joe explore. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

From the Vault: Don't Drink the Salt Water from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Whether you draw your wisdom from 18th century poems or experience in the surf, you probably know that drinking seawater is a terrible idea. But exactly why shouldn’t you drink saltwater? What happ...

Height, Health and Human Happiness from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Tall people. Short People. Somewhere-in-between people. What are we to make of human height and its relationship to overall health and personality? Robert and Christian explore in this episode of t...

Listener Mail: Arnie's Revenge from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Julie bow down to the will of Arnie the Mailbot and finally get to the mounting stack of listener mail. Tune in for discussions on past episodes, mind-bending concepts and the future of ...

The Seven Deadlies: Sloth from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sloth: When does mere laziness become moral failure? When does apathy descend into sloth? In this episode, Julie and Robert tackle one final deadly sin, traveling through both Dante's purgatory and...

Listener Mail: Moa Money, Moa Problems from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It's time for another listener mail episode, this time with your thoughts on teleportation mishaps, the mighty moa and much more... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podc...

Let's Make a List from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why are humans so fascinated by lists? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick explore the reason we can’t pass a top 10 clickbait headline and are forever haunted...

Five Reasons to Never Take Your Space Helmet Off from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You've consumed enough science fiction to know something the average red shirt doesn't: Never take your space helmet off on a foreign planet. But if you're still tempted to breathe deep the gatheri...

Reboot the Biosphere from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sure Biosphere 2 was the laughingstock of the science community when its mission came to a close in 1993. (Blame the Star Trek-like uniforms.) But scientific findings spiraled out of it long after ...

Cat Parasites Conquer the World from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The most successful organisms hide in the shadows. The parasite Toxoplasma gondii is just such a puppet master, and its marionettes include rodents, cats and human beings. In this episode, Julie an...

The Mighty Sarlacc from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Few places in the Star Wars universe are regarded with as much horror as the Great Pit of Carkoon, within the Dune Sea of Tatooine. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe consid...

The Tunnelers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

How deep into the Earth have humans traveled? How far have we drilled? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick explore some interesting lows from the history of mi...

R. Scott Bakker: On Alien Philosophy and Fantasy from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Canadian author R. Scott Bakker is best known for his Second Apocalypse saga, a series of dark fantasy novels that explore philosophical and even neuroscientific ideas through a world of sorcery, h...

Two Years and 20 Minutes Inside Biosphere 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Enter Biosphere 2 with Robert and Julie and tour a technological wonder of the early 90s -- a 7,200,000 cubic foot Earth-in-miniature. Find out about this "Eden on top of an aircraft" and what went...

The Seven Deadlies: Wrath from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Wrath: Where does wrath arise from in the human brain and why do we malign it as one of the seven deadly sins? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Julie continue the buffet of vi...

From the Vault: The Sacred Mountain, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why do sacred mountains exist in so many cultures and myths? To what extent could high altitude conditions contribute to the way our mind processes these breathtaking environments? In this Stuff to...

From the Vault: Jade Immortality from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Chinese aristocracy of the Western Han Dynasty embarked on their journey into the afterlife within garments of stone -- luxurious suits of jade armor entailing thousands of individual plates sewn t...

Hook Suspension and the Complexity of Pain from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Hook suspension challenges our perceptions of pain. We see practitioners, pierced through the flesh with hooks, suspended by chains and yet smiling as if lost to a state of bliss. What are they fee...

The Spiral of Silence from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Have you ever heard someone say something you disagreed with and kept your opinions to yourself? You, my friend, just fell into the spiral of silence. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://n...

Virtual Sex and Linked Dreaming from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Imagine a future in which astronauts engage in virtual encounters with Earth-bound spouses. What sort of technology will make this possible? In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss computer-mitig...

Invention Playlist 3: Board Games, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Board games have only grown in variety and complexity in recent decades, but just how far back in time do these curious physical simulations go? In this episode of Invention, Robert Lamb and Joe Mc...

Highlander 2: The Sciencing from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Yes, the time of the Quickening is at hand! In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick finally make good on their threat to devote an entire episode to the 1991 film ...

Escape Velocity: Jack Parsons and the New Magick from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Jack Parsons wanted to break free, from both the limits of Earth and the boundaries of traditional early 20th century American thought. He devoted his short life to the scientific pursuit of rocket...

Mass Hysteria and the Mad Gasser from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Did a masked madman terrorize a sleepy Illinois town with a paralyzing gas gun? Or did something equally bizarre transpire back in August of 1944? Lend an ear to this bone-chilling episode of Stuff...

The Seven Deadlies: Lust! from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Lust: Are we slaves to our desire? Can we resist our passions, or should we go full-satyr and embrace the inner goat? Join Robert and Julie as they journey through the maelstroms of Dante's Inferno...

Invention Playlist 3: Board Games, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Board games have only grown in variety and complexity in recent decades, but just how far back in time do these curious physical simulations go? In this episode of Invention, Robert Lamb and Joe Mc...

The Lost Daughters of Aten: Planet 9 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Pluto may not be a planet, but it definitely exists. Not every case is so clear. The history of near-Earth astronomy contains many cases of bodies that may or may not have ever existed in the solar...

Weird Wonders of House Gastropoda from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The world of slugs and snails is a grotesque circus of fever-dream horrors and biological marvels. Join Robert and Christian for a six-species dive into their life cycles of slime, iron plating, de...

The Science of Uncanny Music from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Science of Uncanny Music: Why is scary music so scary? Why does an uncanny tune creep us out so? Is it all context and culture or is there something deeper at work? Robert and Julie provide the...

Organisms: Heavyweight Division from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Just how big can an Earth organism get? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Julie and Robert look at some of the heavyweight contenders for the largest life form on the planet - and the ans...

Invention Playlist 3: The Atlatl Spear Thrower from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The spear is a truly ancient human technology, but this preceded one of humanity’s oldest mechanical inventions: the atlatl or spear thrower. In this episode of Invention, Robert and Joe explore th...

From the Vault: Talos from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Among the many humanoid gods and bestial monsters of Greek mythology, one finds a peculiar outlier: Talos the bronze automaton. Said to stalk the shores of Crete, Talos pelted suspicious ships with...

Jade Immortality: Burial Armor of the Han Dynasty from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Chinese aristocracy of the Western Han Dynasty embarked on their journey into the afterlife within garments of stone -- luxurious suits of jade armor entailing thousands of individual plates sewn t...

What's in a witches' brew? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Gather round the cauldron with Robert and Julie as they ladle out hefty servings of magical thinking, medieval psychedelics, feminist history and the power of ritual. Just what was old-school witch...

Godzilla vs. Kong vs. Barbie from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Godzilla vs. Kong vs. Barbie: Are you terrified of giant monster attacks? Well, this is the episode for you. Join Robert and Julie as they calm your fears with a healthy dose of science. Listen in ...

Invention Playlist 3: The Condom from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Condoms are an important part of human health and medicine, but where did this invention come from? Robert and Joe explore in this episode of Invention. Learn more about your ad-choices at https:/...

The Lost Daughters of Aten, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Pluto may not be a planet, but it definitely exists. Not every case is so clear. The history of near-Earth astronomy contains many cases of bodies that may or may not have ever existed in the solar...

Push the Frontier from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You’ve seen enough Westerns and Game of Throne episodes to know a frontier when you see it, but what exactly is this boundary between the laws of your world and the promise or threat of another? In...

The Dark from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What about darkness is so unsettling? Find out about the most extreme instances of an absence of light and how it works on our bodies. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/p...

Stendhal Syndrome: Kicked in the Brain by Art from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Imagine a work of art so beautiful that it causes heart palpitations and hallucinations. This Stuff to Blow Your Mind episode dives into the surreal world of Stendhal syndrome. What's the science b...

Invention Playlist 3: Air Conditioning, Part 3 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Air conditioning has had a profound impact on modern life -- and in more ways than you might realize. In this trio of Invention episodes, Robert and Joe explore pre-AC cooling methods, the inventio...

Mystery of the Sea Circles from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

We’ve all heard about crop circles, and the entirely terrestrial reason they pop up in the occasional wheat field. But what about strange circles on the bottom of the sea? In this episode of Stuff ...

STBYM Live: Weird Science in the Windy City from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert, Christian and Joe transport you back to the Chicago Columbian Exposition of 1893, when the neoclassical architecture of Daniel Burnham’s White City loomed on the shores of Lake Michigan, Ni...

Steven Johnson: How We Got to Now from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Glass, Cold, Sound, Clean, Time and Light. Just a random collection of items in the physical world, right? Not in the hands of science journalist Steven Johnson, who weaves a revelatory tale of tec...

The Seven Deadlies: Grasping Greed from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Greed: Would you like more money? Sure, we all would. But how does greed break down in the mind? Where's the line between appreciating wealth and complete corruption? In this episode, Julie and Rob...

Invention Playlist 3: Air Conditioning, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Air conditioning has had a profound impact on modern life -- and in more ways than you might realize. In this trio of Invention episodes, Robert and Joe explore pre-AC cooling methods, the inventio...

From the Vault: The Winter People, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Do you feel like a different person during the winter? In this two-part Stuff to Blow Your Mind exploration, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick examine the extent to which winter affects human health an...

Listener Mail: In One Ear, Out the Third Eye from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert, Joe and Christian call in the mailbot for yet another dose of listener feedback. Join them as they read your thoughts on everything from the uncanny valley and the Black Stone of Mecca to h...

Trypophobia: Fear of Holes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Phobias can arise from all sorts of lurking dangers, like venomous snakes. But holes? Is trypophobia really a thing? Find out why a person might fear an array of innocent holes and the role social ...

Novelty Junkies from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Do you love new experiences and fresh ideas? Join Julie and Robert as they examine neophilia, the love of novelty. How can this swell-sounding human attribute lead one person down the road to ruin ...

Invention Playlist 3: Air Conditioning, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Air conditioning has had a profound impact on modern life -- and in more ways than you might realize. In this trio of Invention episodes, Robert and Joe explore pre-AC cooling methods, the inventio...

Gáe Bulg: The Spear of Death from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Irish myth tells of a spear so deadly, that its deployment is certain death. Forged from the bones of sea monsters, the Gáe Bulg would send barbs through its victim’s every vein -- but only if the ...

H. R. Giger and the Biomechanical Soul from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

We’ve all seen the surreal biomechanical art of the late H.R. Giger, but the artist’s mainstream success and the undying appeal of his 'Alien' sometimes prevent a full appreciation of his dark visi...

The Zen of Pain from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Can pain elevate us to a higher state of conscious? Can we find peace and forgiveness with self-inflicted cuts and lashes? Join Robert and Julie as they raise the lantern of science to the humanity...

The Seven Deadlies: Glutton Chops from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Gluttony: When does appetite transform into disorder? What are we to make of competitive eating? Join Robert and Julie as they continue their science-guided tour of hell, chatting with gluttons in ...

Invention Playlist 3: Bread/Toast/Toasters from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Who invented toast? Who then went on to invent the toaster? In this episode of Invention, Robert and Joe chase the origins of bread transformed through the Maillard reaction and consider the origin...

Ideophones: How does this word feel? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What’s an ideophone? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick explore the place where sounds, meanings and the possible ...

Where is my mind? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Today, most humans accept the brain as the seat of human consciousness, but this was not always the case. Join Robert and Joe as they explore ancient, alternative views on the anatomical center of ...

The Infinity Hotel from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Imagine a hotel with infinite rooms and infinite guests. Do you fancy they have space for one more late arrival? Join Robert and Julie as they check into the Infinity Hotel to discover how the conc...

Tidally Locked Perpetual Darkness from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why do we never see the moon's backside? What would the Earth be like if one side always faced the sun? In this episode, Robert and Julie contemplate tidally locked planets and moons, where one sid...

Invention Playlist 3: Ketchup from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You love it. You put it on everything. But where does ketchup come from? In this episode of Invention, Robert and Joe explore the mysterious origins of everyone’s favorite sweet red sauce -- and co...

From the Vault: The Winter People, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Do you feel like a different person during the winter? In this two-part Stuff to Blow Your Mind exploration, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick examine the extent to which winter affects human health an...

Fossil Action Scenes: Dino Birth and Prehistoric Combat from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Fossilized remains provide exciting insight into the biology and behavior of prehistoric beasts, but sometimes the fossil record gives us even more -- a bonafide action scene! In this episode of St...

Infinity + One from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Contemplate the boundless. Contemplate the endless. Join Robert and Julie as they discuss what infinity is, what infinity isn't and the philosopher's never-ending quest to unravel the nature of cos...

The Seven Deadlies: Green With Envy from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Envy: Guided by science, Julie and Robert continue their journey through the pleasures and perils of the seven deadly sins. This time the vice of choice is envy, so prepare to discover the neurosci...

Invention Playlist 3: Beachbum Berry on the Mai Tai from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Mai Tai isn’t only the most famous Tiki cocktail, it’s one of the most well known cocktails on the planet. But where does it come from? Who invented it? In this episode of Invention, Robert and...

Cupid’s Leaden Arrow from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It’s Valentine’s Day again, which summons images of mythic Cupid and his bow. But we often forget that Cupid has TWO arrows in his quiver: the golden arrow of desire and the leaden arrow of aversio...

Disease Takes Flight on Leathery Wings from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Bats have been demonized through history. Our folklore and horror stories tell us they’re something to be afraid of because they’re 'creatures of the night' with weird abilities like echolocation. ...

Wendigo... from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Wendigo: What are we to make of this evil spirit of Algonquin folklore, said to transform unfortunate travelers into cannibalistic monsters? Have true accounts of "wendigo psychosis" actually occur...

The Fantastic Voyage of Endoscopic Cameras from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You no longer have to turn yourself inside out to travel through your digestive track. Just swallow a camera-bot, grab some pop corn, and watch the kernels traverse your guts. Join Robert and Julie...

Pointing, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why is pointing such a central part of human communication? How does it relate to culture, technology and our relationship to non-human animals? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert a...

Listener Mail: Crab Sabbath from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It's listener mail time again and Karnie the mailbot seems rather grumpy about a particular holiday. Join Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick as they read and respond to various listener mail from the pa...

The Demon-Haunted Mind from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Demons exist only within the human imagination, but that doesn’t make them harmless. If positive religious world views can result in a more positive state of mind, then might belief in soul-clawing...

The Horror Movie Aphrodisiac from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Are horror movies a sure-fire aphrodisiac? Does the haunted house really exit into the bed room? Join Robert and Julie as they examine the old scary movie seduction trope and look for the scientifi...

The Seven Deadlies: Pride Cometh Before the Brain from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Pride: What is pride, and why is it considered such a bad thing? Is pride actually an evolutionary virtue? Join Julie and Robert as they take listeners on a guided tour of the so-called seven deadl...

Pointing, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why is pointing such a central part of human communication? How does it relate to culture, technology and our relationship to non-human animals? In this Stuff to Blow Your Mind two-parter, Robert a...

From the Vault: Minds of Musical Emptiness from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

We're all wired to enjoy different forms of music, but for some of us the wiring is missing entirely. Join Robert Lamb and Christian Sager as they explore the curious conditions of amusia and audit...

Beyond the Uncanny Valley from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The far side of the uncanny valley rises steeply, assaulting our psyche as our artificial human likenesses creep ever closer toward perfection. But what happens when we actually emerge on the other...

How Rewilding Works from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Anthropocene era has exacted quite a toll on Earth's ecosystem, but could rewilding reverse the damage and restore balance to Earth? Could it bring the human individual and human culture as a w...

Absolute Disgust from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

There's plenty of stuff in this world to summon your disgust. But why do we feel this way? Is there logic behind repulsion, and if so what is your brain trying to say? In this episode, Robert and J...

From the Vault: The Sacred Mountain, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why do sacred mountains exist in so many cultures and myths? To what extent could high altitude conditions contribute to the way our mind processes these breathtaking environments? In this Stuff to...

Marah Hardt talks Snails, Sex and the Sea from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It's almost Valentine's Day, so it's time to invite marine biologist and "Sex in the Sea" author Dr. Marah Hardt back on the show again! Join Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick as they chat with STBYM's...

Into the Uncanny Valley from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

From bad CGI characters to creepy humanoid robots, everyone knows the uncanny valley effect when they see it. But where did this idea come from and to what extent is it actually a thing? Join Rober...

The Ghosts of Evolution from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

We now inhabit the Anthropocene era -- one where man-made environments have displaced entire ecosystems and the plants and animals that inhabited them. Knowing that all species are interconnected -...

Monogamy Shamogamy from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

From black vultures to angler fish, the Earth is home to many monogamous species. Humans, however, don't quite make the list. In this episode, Julie and Robert explore why humans have a hard time w...

Invention Playlist II: Bubble Wrap from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe explore the origins and impact of bubble wrap... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Demon Eaters and Possessed Tools from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As we slide into the Year of the Earth Pig, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick turn to the legend of the demon slayer Zh?ng Kuí and follow a procession of spirits across the sea to Japan, where discarde...

Sexbots: From Objectification to Therapeutic Surrogates from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sex between humans and machines is nothing new in the world of science fiction. Their forms range from angelic mechanoids to victimized humanoids, but the robotic lover is almost always an expressi...

Money and Happiness from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Can money buy happiness? Find out if being flush with cash really makes a difference in your outlook. Join Robert and Julie once more for a fascinating examination of the human condition on the Stu...

In the Lair of the Rat King from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In medieval Germany it was a dire omen of plague-ridden doom. Today, it remains more of a grotesque cultural reference. Join Robert and Julie as they enter the lair of the rat king, and prepare to ...

Invention Playlist II: Toilets, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe explore the origins and impact of the toilet... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

From the Vault: Aquatic Humanoids, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

From the sirens of 'The Odyssey' to 'The Creature From the Black Lagoon' and beyond, humans have always imagined their underwater doubles. In this two-part Stuff to Blow Your Mind exploration, Robe...

Fertility, Ovulation and Consumer Decision Making from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

For 50 percent of the population, ovulation plays a role in human behavior -- but to what extent? Marketing researcher and social psychologist Kristina Durante contends that ovulation plays a large...

Greed Redux from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Would you like more money? Sure, we all would. In this encore presentation, Robert and Julie dive into the world of Scrooge McDuck, King Midas and look at how greed is expressed in the brain. Lea...

Virgin Galactic: $200,000 Ticket to Ride from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Want to blast into space with celebrities? Virgin Galactic might just be your ticket to ride. Join Julie and Robert as they discuss the landmark space tourism venture and the future of space travel...

Invention Playlist II: Toilets, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe explore the origins and impact of the toilet... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Ships of Life: Shipwrecks from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Water vessels serve the humans who made them, but that doesn’t mean other lifeforms don’t benefit as well. In this pair of Stuff to Blow Your Mind episodes, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick explore th...

Be a Better Guesser With Fermi Estimation from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

How many eyeballs are in the jar? How many piano tuners ply their trade in Chicago and how many intelligent alien civilizations await us in the universe? These questions might seem overwhelming, bu...

The Myth of Average from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Find out why using statistical averages to understand individuals is a crappy strategy for healthcare and education. Robert and Julie also look at how playing to the average affects our everyday wo...

The Existential Horror of the Humanzee from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

A Russian program to breed human/chimpanzee hybrids? Prisoners injected with animal testes? These grotesque tales shed light on the line between humans and chimpanzees. In this episode, Robert and ...

Invention Playlist II: Braille from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe explore the origins and impact of braille... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Ships of Life: Stowaways from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Water vessels serve the humans who made them, but that doesn’t mean other lifeforms don’t benefit as well. In this pair of Stuff to Blow Your Mind episodes, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick explore th...

Far Below: The London Underground Mosquito from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Unnatural tunnels worm and weave their way beneath centuries of accumulated London sprawl, and here a few natural creature assume unnatural behaviors -- including the humble mosquito. For wherever ...

Ignorance is Bliss from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why do we humans sometimes stick our heads in the sand -- even at the risk of our health and well-being? Robert and Julie explore the topic of information aversion. Learn more about your ad-choice...

We Are Stardust from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The atoms in your heart once burned in the fires of a dead star. Does this constitute an almost-spiritual connection to the cosmos or is it mere chemistry? In this episode, Robert and Julie discuss...

Invention Playlist II: Walls from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe explore the origins and impact of walls... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

From the Vault: Aquatic Humanoids, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

From the sirens of “The Odyssey” to “The Creature From the Black Lagoon” and beyond, humans have always imagined their underwater doubles. In this two-part Stuff to Blow Your Mind exploration, Robe...

Two Minutes To Midnight: The Doomsday Clock from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists continues to calculate humanity’s countdown to annihilation, but who calculates the doomsday clock and what factors bring us closer to midnight? Robert and Christi...

Attention Schema Theory: Consciousness and God from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Life is an enduring mystery. We're forced to unravel the mystery of human consciousness from within, while the enigma of cosmos bears down on us from beyond. We whisper the words "self" and even "g...

Hug it Out from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Just what sort of hugger are you? Do you squeeze random strangers? Do you grapple your pals in a bear hug or go for the side-hug? In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss the science of hugging it...

Invention Playlist II: The Wheel, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe explore the origins and impact of the wheel... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Invasion of the Globsters, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

When mysterious globs of meat wash up on the shores of human civilization, we have a tendency to see beasts in the blobs and have always tried to imagine the creature in the carnage. Welcome to the...

The Necessity of Patient Zero from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Patient zero looms large in our collective consciousness. Through carelessness, impropriety or sheer twisted luck, they introduce highly contagious pathogens into new human populations -- if not th...

Gaming the Flow from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Join Robert and Julie as they explore what is to enter "the flow state," a place of both clarity and ecstasy that some say leads to ultimate contentment. So how do you achieve it and why are game d...

The Science of Arguing from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why do we argue? How much bickering is ego sparring and to what extent our evolutionary heritage involved? Join Julie and Robert as they dive into the science behind arguing, from the argumentative...

Invention Playlist II: The Wheel, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe explore the origins and impact of the wheel... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Invasion of the Globsters, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

When mysterious globs of meat wash up on the shores of human civilization, we have a tendency to see beasts in the blobs and have always tried to imagine the creature in the carnage. Welcome to the...

Life After Radiation: Sickness, Death and Sustenance from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

While fictional monsters and superheroes consume rads like video game power-ups, radiation is a trickier matter in reality -- from everyday radiation to the destructive exposure associated with nuc...

Syphilis Through The Ages from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It's difficult to overstate the impact of syphilis on the Western world, and it remains a threat to this day despite effective antibiotic treatments. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Rob...

The Magic Eight Ball of Your Existence from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Magic Eight Ball of Your Existence: Imagine a computer model of the entire world, one on which world leaders can test their decisions and gauge the ripple effect of their actions. Is such a sim...

Invention Playlist II: Roads from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe explore the origins and impact of roads... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

From the Vault: Bathysphere, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In 1930, American naturalist William Beebe began his descent in a spherical, unpowered submarine known as a Bathysphere -- and in doing so visited a world previously unseen by human beings. In this...

One-Armed Bandits: The Science of Slot Machines from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You may call it a slot machine, a fruit machine or a one-armed bandit, but the reality is the same: an algorithmically precise machine designed to drain the human gambler of all his or her earnings...

Syphilis: The Great Imitator from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Doctors have called it the great imitator because this destructive venereal disease can manifest almost any symptom. Initially spreading through sexual contact, Syphilis can remain dormant in the b...

Would You Rather: Bug Diet vs. Bacteria Diet from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

So which would you choose: an exclusive diet of bugs for the rest of your life, or an endless string of fermented feasts? In this "Would You Rather?" episode, Julie and Robert present the facts and...

Invention Playlist II: The Saxophone from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe explore the origins and impact of the saxophone... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Split Brain, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Our brains are composed of two hemispheres, but in what ways are they truly separate? In which ways are they one? In this bisected Stuff to Blow Your Mind exploration, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick...

Mandala: Memory Palace and Simulated Worlds from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The mandalas of Tibetan Buddhism entice us as artistic expressions, meta symbols and conscience expressions of a complex spiritual cosmology. In this episode of the Stuff to Blow Your Mind podcast,...

The Mathematics of Happiness from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Is there a mathematical equation for happiness? Is there a formula for contentment? Explore the science and chase the ephemeral in this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind. Learn more about your ad...

Black Blizzards of the Dust Bowl from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Just what was the Dust Bowl? In this episode, Robert and Julie travel back to the ruined farms and black blizzards of the Great Depression. How did we plant trees to combat ecological damage, and h...

Invention Playlist II: Toothpaste from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Robert and Joe explore the origins and impact of toothpaste... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://news.iheart.com/podcast-advertisers

Split Brain, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Our brains are composed of two hemispheres, but in what ways are they truly separate? In which ways are they one? In this bisected Stuff to Blow Your Mind exploration, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick...

Books of Flesh: Anthropodermic Bibliopegy from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The libraries of horror fiction typically offer many a dark tome bound in human flesh, but do books like the ‘Necronomicon Ex-Mortis’ of ‘Evil Dead’ really exist? They do, and the true story of ski...

The Power of Origami from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

There's far more to origami than paper swans. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Julie explore the mathematics and real-world applications of intricately folded sheets. Learn m...

Cheating in the Name of from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Have you ever cheated on a test? You're not alone. But what goes on in a student's mind when they reach for the cheat sheet and how does it play out in various cultures? In this episode, Robert and...

The Head of Medusa, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

We all know snake-haired Medusa, the gorgon of Greek myth whose very gaze turns mortals and titans alike to stone. But where does this iconic monster come from and why has she lingered so very long...

From the Vault: Bathysphere, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In 1930, American naturalist William Beebe began his descent in a spherical, unpowered submarine known as a Bathysphere -- and in doing so visited a world previously unseen by human beings. In this...

The Secret Intellect of Animals, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In the second of two episodes, Christian and Joe continue their discussion of animal cognition, including animal morality, tool use, mental time travel, culture, and other strange clues to the inte...

Quarantine from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sure, we've all seen medical quarantines against infectious disease in the movies, but how do they work in real life? Find out in this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind. Learn more about your ad-...

The Way of the Sword from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

From samurai blades to claymores, the sword is one of humanity's most iconic inventions, and they've cut a bloody swath across history. In this episode, Robert and Julie consider the way of the swo...

The Head of Medusa, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

We all know snake-haired Medusa, the gorgon of Greek myth whose very gaze turns mortals and titans alike to stone. But where does this iconic monster come from and why has she lingered so very long...

The Alien Biped from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As humans, we’re quite accustomed to our weird vertical spines and precarious two-legged gait. But habitual bipedalism is far from the norm. When did it first occur on planet Earth? Will the roboti...

The Secret Intellect of Animals, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In the 18th century, David Hume wrote that “no truth appears to me more evident than that beasts are endow’d with thought and reason as well as men.” Yet animal cognition has remained a controversi...

Understanding Ebola from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The word "Ebola" is enough to summon feelings of fear, body horror and even xenophobia. But don't give in to paranoia. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Julie arm you with info...

Anatomy of a Hangover from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Anatomy of a Hangover: Before your next New Year's hangover, let's explore what creates that splitting headache and the realization that you're wearing half a gorilla costume. Join Julie and Robert...

From the Vault: Flatus Ex Machina, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why is it so hilarious when robots and artificial intelligence fail? What does it reveal about comedy itself and our technological anxiety? Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick explore in this Stuff to Bl...

The Room of Infinite Unpleasantness from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

If you were to create the most unpleasant room humanly possible, what sort of design choices would you employ? What would the space look like and, more to the point, how would it make you feel? Rob...

The Holy Black Stone of Mecca from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Kaaba marks the geographic center of the Islamic world, and here one finds Al-Hadjar Al-Aswad, the Holy Black Stone of Mecca. Islamic traditions hold that the once white white stone blackened w...

The Scientist and the Shaman: Hallucination from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Julie and Robert continue their discussion of the overlap between shamanism and cognitive neuroscience. In particular, what sort of hallucinatory...

Newton: The Chuck Norris of Science from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You are unprepared for the awesomeness of Sir Isaac Newton. Sure, he contributed to science, but a deeper look into his life shows just how Chuck Norrisy the man was. Plug in your headphones and pr...

From the Vault: Biophilia from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why are humans so drawn to the natural world of biodiverse organisms? Is this longing merely part of our culture or do we possess an innate and even genetic tendency to focus on life and lifelike p...

The Mystery of Crab Boxing from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Boxer crabs stand out amid their crustacean brethren due to their amazing tool use -- a mutualistic relationship between these tiny crabs and the living sea anemones they employ as weapons. In thi...

The Scientist and the Shaman: My Egoic Mind from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

A shaman consumes a psychedelic mushroom and visits the spirit world. Meanwhile, a scientist studies the effects of psilocybin on depression and conceptions of self. In this episode, Robert and Jul...

Sunken Dangers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

What mysteries rest at the bottom of the sea? Which embody nature's diversity? Which tell the tale of humanity's darker side? In this episode, Robert and Julie look to the vessels lost beneath the ...

Thought Experiments from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Stuff to Blow Your Mind frequently discusses thought experiments on the show, from Schrödinger's Cat to the Infinity Hotel. But what constitutes a thought experiments? How long have they been aroun...

Jump Into The Void from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ever wrestle with the illogical quasi-compulsion to throw yourself off a cliff or building? Don’t worry! You’re probably not suicidal, but merely touched by the 'call of the void' or 'high place ph...

Wind Beneath My Surgical Wings, Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Can science give us the wings we've always envied in birds? Can plastic surgery elevate us to a higher human form? In this second part of this series, Robert and Julie continue exploring of posthum...

Spontaneous Human Combustion from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Do people really just go up in flames? Do grannies really flare up like roman candles in their rockers and is there anything in science that explains why a middle-aged bachelor might burn down to h...

Listener Mail: The Fires of Orc from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

It's a new year full of new topics, but first comes a final bag of listener mail from 2018. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick consider your thoughts and expe...

Scientific Reductionism from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

You might have read that 'love is a smoke raised with the fume of sighs,' but would it really be better explained as the behavior of a large aggregation of elementary particles and their quantum me...

Wind Beneath My Surgical Wings, Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Can science give us the wings we've always envied in birds? Can plastic surgery elevate us to a higher human form? In this episode, Robert and Julie discuss Joseph Rosen's posthuman philosophy and ...

The Santa Claus Machine from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

The Santa Claus Machine: How does Santa Claus make so many gifts? Clearly his elves have harnessed the power of nanomanufacturing. But what does this mean for the planet? In this episode, Robert an...

From the Vault: Artificial Gravity from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Humans are creatures of gravity. We’re born into it. Life as we know it evolved to thrive in it. So what’s a gravitational organism to do in the low-gravity and zero-gravity expanses beyond Earth? ...

Lost Continent: Part 2 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

There's something intoxicating about the notion of a lost continent. Imagine an entire landscape - perhaps even an entire civilization untouched by Western colonialism or perhaps lost beneath ancie...

Nanohealthcare: The Tiny Doctors Inside Me from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Imagine a future in which replacement organs grow in magnetic fields and smart pills work for months. Thanks to advances in nanotechnology, this age of super medicine is nearly here. In this episod...

Christmas Island, Part 2: Deca Deca Pod Y’all from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Welcome to Christmas Island, a place where it’s still only Christmas once a year… but where red crabs swarm across the land and enormous coconut crabs feast on carrion in the forests. So deck the h...

Chinese Immortality: Elixirs and Enlightened Beings from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

From deathless beheaded warriors and sacrificial heroines to mystical hermits, Chinese mythology is rich with tales of the undying. After all, the notion of immortality is as old as recorded histor...

Lost Continent: Part 1 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

There's something intoxicating about the notion of a lost continent. Imagine an entire landscape - perhaps even an entire civilization untouched by Western colonialism or perhaps lost beneath ancie...

Pyromania: What's Your Relationship with Fire? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

When does an appreciation for fire turn into an obsession with the flickering, golden god? Who are firebugs, and what drives them to burn? In this episode, Julie and Robert slip into their best bur...

Christmas Island, Part 1: Crabs Rule Everything Around Me from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Welcome to Christmas Island, a place where it’s still only Christmas once a year… but where red crabs swarm across the land and enormous coconut crabs feast on carrion in the forests. So deck the h...

Chinese Zodiac: Superstition, Economics & Destiny from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As we celebrate Chinese New Year and enter the year of the fire monkey, join Robert and Joe for a Stuff to Blow Your Mind exploration of the Chinese zodiac and some interesting studies related to i...

Humanity's Lullaby from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Lullabies are soothing, grotesque and universal. In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Julie explore the surprisingly rich world of human sleep songs. Learn more about your ad-cho...

The Hashtag Heard Round the World from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Waves of protest continue across the globe, but modern protesters benefit from social media technology. In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss history's largest protests, the Arab Spring, Occupy...

From the Vault: Tree of Life from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Sacred trees. World trees. Holy trees of wisdom, immortality and the soul. They seem to grow from every culture on Earth and their roots dig deep into the soil of prehistory. What do they mean? Why...

Interplanetary War from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Syfy’s 'The Expanse,' based on the James S. A. Corey book series, revolves around conflict between human-seeded planetary civilizations -- namely a UN-governed Earth and an independent Martian stat...

Earwax: Portable Time Capsules from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why do we have ear wax? Why does it build up and what can it tell us about ourselves? Enter the mysterious ear canal in this sticky new episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind. Learn more about your ad...

Why do we protest? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Humans rarely seem to agree, but when we do the results can be staggering. How does the phenomenon called protesting actually work? In this episode, Robert and Julie examine the world of protest an...

Virgin Birth from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

For Christians, the Christmas centers around a miraculous virgin birth. But don’t worry, secular holiday revelers, because nature has its own virgin births to wonder over. In this episode of Stuff ...

Sailors on a Dark Sea: Political Extremism, Child’s Play from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As we sail through this world of technological marvel and complex systems, it’s easy to assume we know the watery depths that yawn beneath our hull. As it turns out, however, it’s all an illusion o...

Ballad of the Electric Fish from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

How does the electric eel generate its juice and how did six different lineages of bioelectric fish evolve on this planet of ours? Find out in this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind. Learn more a...

The Future of Stink from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Will smell-o-vision make a comeback? Will our zombie movies smell like rotten flesh and our video games reek of voided bowels and fear? In this episode, Robert and Julie discuss the history of scen...

Invention: The Guillotine from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Stuff to Blow Your Mind hosts Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick have a brand new show -- and they're dropping a full episode of it into the STBYM feed. The show is INVENTION and this episode dives into...

Sailors on a Dark Sea: Illusion of Explanatory Depth from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

As we sail through this world of technological marvel and complex systems, it’s easy to assume we know the watery depths that yawn beneath our hull. As it turns out, however, it’s all an illusion o...

Junk Food Junkies from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Why does junk food hold such power over us? In this episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Julie get to the bottom of modern humanity's favorite supernormal stimuli. Learn more about your ...

Living with Robots: Can we build a better bot? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Our cohabitation with robotic servants is pretty much guaranteed. So what are we doing today to make sure these are the sort of robot we can tolerate? In this episode, Julie and Robert discuss how ...

Ritual of Oak and Mistletoe from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Twas the night before Christmas and deep in the woods, a sacrifice was planned by the Gauls and their Druids… Yes, in this holiday episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick ...

Mixologia: Potions, Cocktails & Deadly Spirits from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

While the cocktail is an inherently American invention, the history of combining alcohols with other substances to create potent, drinkable concoctions dates back to ancient times. While you might ...

Designer Genes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Gene therapy, DNA analysis and genetically modified organisms are increasingly part of our everyday reality. But where is this road taking us and how will it change us on the way? Find out in this ...

Smells to Blow Your Mind from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Did you know that smell is the only one of your senses with a direct connection to your brain? Or that fancy cheese and David Beckham's foot odor share the same molecular smells? In this episode, R...

Astronomical Suffering and the Terran Diaspora from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

For many futurists, the long term survival of humanity depends on its ability to become a true interplanetary and even interstellar species. But what is the potential moral cost of such a great tec...

From the Vault: Baby Jesus and the Homunculus from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

We’ve all marveled at the grotesque, oddly-proportioned old man babies in medieval art -- but why did artists of the period pain such creatures? In this special Christmas episode of Stuff to Blow Y...