Absinthe once had a sinister reputation for causing hallucinations and even insanity, but it's only as hazardous as any other alcohol. Learn about the history and science behind absinthe in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/edible-innovations/absinthe.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In frigid Antarctica, hidden ice caves warmed by volcanic activity can reach warm springtime temperatures and feature lots of liquid water. Learn what researchers hope to find in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/biology-fields/intricate-ice-caves-in-antarctica-may-harbor-unique-life.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During the Age of Exploration, Vasco da Gama established a water route from Europe to spice-rich India -- and established Portugal as a fearsome colonial force. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/vasco-da-gama.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intelligence and talent may be something we're born with, but there's evidence that nurture is at least as important as nature in determining genius. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/genetic/genius-genetic.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many modern cities feature grided streets made for walking, but suburbs' wide, winding roads require cars to get around. Learn why, plus how it might change, in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/civil/why-so-many-suburban-streets-twist-and-turn.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a lot of confusion over food allergies, intolerances, and other disorders with similar symptoms. So how can you tell the difference, and how many of us should be concerned? Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/allergies/food-allergy/information/why-there-is-so-much-confusion-about-who-has-food-allergies.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sparticus was an enslaved man who led a revolt against the Roman Republic that changed the course of history. Learn about the life of this gladiator turned rebel leader in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/spartacus.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Panama Canal makes ships float uphill between oceans -- and creating it took solving an epidemic, moving millions of tons of earth, and inciting a revolution just to start out. Learn more about the Panama Canal in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/structural/panama-canal.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some microbes make food spoil, but others help preserve it -- and even create our favorite flavors and effects, from cheese to chocolate to chardonay. Learn more about food fermentation in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-fermentation.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This question is surprisingly difficult answer, in no small part due to the stigma against discussing mental health. Learn about researchers' best estimates for the prevalence of depression around the world and in the U.S. in this episode of BrainStuff, with material from this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/depression/facts/depression.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The largest planet in our solar system has the shortest days, at least 95 moons, a few faint rings, and mysteries to boot. Learn more about Jupiter in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/46003-jupiter-explained.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some food safety charts claim that whole milk goes off more quickly than skim milk, but the scientific evidence is mixed. Learn more about milk science in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/dairy/does-whole-milk-spoil-faster-than-skim-milk.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scorpions light up a glowing green under ultraviolet light. Science isn't entirely sure how but has a few theories on why. (Y'know, aside from "Scorpions are metal.") Learn more about scorpions' fluorescence in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/arachnids/why-scorpions-glow-under-black-light.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From particle physics to immunology to the ozone layer, these six scientists from the Spanish-speaking Americas redefined their disciplines with their work. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/dictionary/famous-scientists/physicists/10-hispanic-scientists.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The dodo was the first animal that we watched go extinct due to human intervention -- could it be the first animal we bring back? Learn more about the dodo and de-extinction in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/extinct-animals/dodo.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Depression is a common condition, and highly treatable, but there's still a lot we don't understand about how it works. Learn about depression's probable causes, usual symptoms, and effective treatments in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/depression/facts/depression.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To be eligible to be elected president of the United States, you have to be at least 35 years old. But why 35? And why is there no upper age limit? Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/us-millennials-under-35-age-limit-president.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doughnuts have been around in some form for thousands of years, but a lot had to happen to make them the near-ubiquitous snack they are today. Learn about the history of doughnuts in this episode of BrainStuff, based on these articles: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/5-things-didn-t-know-about-doughnuts.htm; https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-events/ridiculous-history-vitamin-donuts.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Owls' ability to fly almost silently gives them an air of mystery, but the science is in their wings and feathers. Learn how they do it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/owl-fly-silently.htm/printableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Calamity Jane has a reputation for being one of the wildest women in the Old West, but it's hard to separate historical fact from fiction. Learn more about this sharp-shooting adventurer in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/calamity-jane.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ring of Fire is a loop around the Pacific Ocean that's a literal hotbed of volcanoes, earthquakes, hydrothermal vents, and other geologic activity. Learn how the interactions among tectonic plates cause all this mayhem in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geology/ring-of-fire.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a bustling plaza in the heart of Paris, Napoleon Bonaparte commissioned the Arc de Triomphe as a monument to his victories -- but he didn't live to see it completed. Learn more about its history in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/architecture/arc-de-triomphe.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charles "Pretty Boy" Floyd was a fairly common criminal until he got involved in shootout with federal agents in 1933. Learn about his life and crimes in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/pretty-boy-floyd.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's not just malice -- there are several psychological reasons why people get so mean and angry online. Learn what experts say (and how to stop the cycle) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/human-brain/psychological-reason-mean-on-internet.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The pink fairy armadillo looks like a fantasy illustration and is so elusive that it's practically mythical. Learn what we know (and don't know) about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/pink-fairy-armadillo.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

America's founders created the three branches of the government -- executive, legislative, and judicial -- to check and balance each other. Learn how the system struggles and works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/three-branches-government.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Short answer: Nope! As it turns out, Saturn's rings are fairly new, and they'll only be around a while longer. Relatively speaking. Learn how researchers discovered this in today's classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/saturns-rings-blip-in-time.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whale songs are eerie, beautiful, and -- as it turns out -- completely on-trend. Learn how humpback whales share tunes among herds in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/humpback-whales-start-new-songs-old-too-complex.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The internet is a daily fixture in our lives, and it all started with the diligent work of Department of Defense-funded researchers in the 1960s. Learn how ARPANET bloomed into the internet as we know it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://computer.howstuffworks.com/internet/basics/internet-start.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every year on January 1, a new batch of movies, books, songs, and other works of art enters the public domain, meaning they're free to use and repurpose. (In 2024, after 95 years of copyright, we got the original Mickey Mouse cartoon, 'Steamboat Willy'.) Learn how public domain and copyright law intersect to encourage artists in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/what-does-public-domain-mean.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pelicans use their huge gular pouch to easily scoop up fish in water but consume only the fish. Learn more about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/pelican-bill-vs-belly.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having a plan in place when a hurricane approaches can help keep you safe -- and take some of the stress out of these scary storms. Learn the basics of hurricane preparedness in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/household-safety/prepare-for-hurricane.htm Go to Ready.gov for more info.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Barbie is an American icon now -- but she wasn't an instant success, and she actually has roots in a slightly ribald German cartoon from the 1950s. Learn how Ruth Handler made Barbie a phenomenon in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/barbie-history.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These blue-tongued lizards look like snakes with stubby legs -- and that's just one feature they use to make predators think they're more dangerous than they are. Learn more (including why they can make great pets for an experienced owner) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/blue-tongued-skink.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although wildfires can be scary, serious disasters, forests and the animals that inhabit them can actually benefit from fires. Learn how controlled burns work and why they help wildlife in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/how-forest-fire-benefit-living-things-.htm/printableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is light a particle or a wave? Or both? Or neither? Learn how humans have defined light throughout history -- including our best attempts today -- in this classic episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Human bodies buried in bogs can retain some features -- like perfectly preserved skin, right down to forehead wrinkles -- for thousands of years. Learn how this natural mummification process works in today's classic episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The word 'hack' was once simply a verb meaning to cut roughly -- it's now a noun and verb with several meanings, from a bad writer to computer criminal. Learn how it transformed in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/word-hack.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sharks are such successful hunters in part because their senses are so well-adapted to finding prey in the water. Learn about sharks' senses of smell, hearing, sight, taste, and electroreception in this episode of BrainStuff, based on these articles: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/fish/sharks/shark-senses.htm/printable; https://animals.howstuffworks.com/fish/sharks/shark-yummy-hum.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first woman to ride around the world on a bicycle embarked in 1894, a time when it was still a little scandalous for women to ride bikes at all. Learn the story of Annie 'Londonderry' Kopchovsky in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/annie-londonderry.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You may have heard that you shouldn't eat oysters in any month without the letter R in its name. Learn where this idea came from -- and why it's not true anymore -- in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/food-nutrition/raw-oysters-are-safe-to-eat-every-month-year.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Using the bathroom in near-zero gravity is exactly as tricky as it sounds. Learn how space bathrooms have worked (and sometimes not worked) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/10-moments-space-bathrooms.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These large, intelligent North American birds weren't everyone's first choice for a United States icon. Learn more about bald eagles in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/bald-eagles.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It seems miraculous that art can be so moving, but there are several scientific theories about it. Learn what we know (and what we don't) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/emotions/music-and-art-move-us.htm/printableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the 1930s, stones surfaced that might explain what happened to the settlers of the lost colony of Roanoke. Learn their story -- plus how modern science might help determine whether they're real -- in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-events/dare-stones-forgery-or-key-to-lost-colony-roanoke-mystery.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bruises can turn a rainbow of colors before they heal -- but why? Learn the science behind color-changing contusions in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/information/health-factors/why-do-bruises-change-colors-as-heal.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sound needs matter to travel through -- and matter is scattered pretty far and wide in space. Learn more about how hearing works and how space works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/humans-hear-in-space.htm/printableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dingoes are Australia's wiley wild canines -- and yes, they can be dangerous to humans. Learn about the origin of this pop culture phrase in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/dingo.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Emanicaption Proclamation didn't immediately free any enslaved people -- it wasn't meant to. Learn how it succeeded at its actual purpose -- demoralizing the Confederacy -- in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-events/lincoln-emancipation-proclamation.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pickled cucumbers are a simple snack favored by everyone from deli-goers to Cleopatra. Learn the science and history behind pickling in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-science/pickle-history.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All exercise is good for keeping us healthier and happier -- but some kinds of exercise can actually help you live longer, too. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/which-athletes-live-longest.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you take a pull of air from a helium balloon, you'll sound like a cartoon version of yourself for a few seconds. Learn why helium makes you so high pitched in this episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After our sun dies, it and many other stars will eventually crystallize. Learn how astrophysicists figured this out -- and how it works -- in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/after-sun-dies-itll-become-stellar-crystal.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Though his formal education and financial means were limited, Cesar Chavez succeeded in unionizing California farm workers as no one had before. Learn about his life and dedication to La Causa in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/cesar-chavez.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Giraffe's necks contain only seven vertabrae, just like ours, but can be several feet long. Learn how their bodies adapted to this amazing structure in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/giraffe-neck.htm/printableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aspic is savory gelatin that can serve as a sort of showstopping, jiggly salad. Learn the science behind how it's made (and a few guesses about why) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/aspic.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It wasn't a total cultural collapse, but several Maya cities were abandonded all around the same time. Learn how natural and human-driven climate change may have been key in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/climate-change-end-mayan-civilization.htm/printableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The nail polishes popular today owe their existence to the automotive industry, but the history of nail colors and varnishes goes back millennia. Learn the history of nail polish in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/nail-care/tips/colorful-history-nail-polish.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The photos on social media are arguably the cutest, but how do dogs feel when we dress them up? Can dogs feel emarrassment? Learn what science has to say in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/do-dogs-get-embarrassed.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If a traffic light seems stuck on red, you're not stuck too. Learn what's legal and what's safe to try in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/safety-regulatory-devices/if-light-is-stuck-on-red-are-stuck-too.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Benedict Arnold is the United States' most famous traitor. Learn about his journey from hero to villain of the Revolutionary War in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/benedict-arnold.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These small, wild cats with famously grumpy expressions are uniquely adapted to their frigid high-altitude environtments. Learn more about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/pallas-cat.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Popular culture throws around the terms 'sociopath' and 'psychopath' a lot, but neither is a real mental health diagnosis. Learn about the actual traits and conditions behind these terms in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/mental-disorders/sociopath-vs-psychopath.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The majority of humans become lactose intolerant as they grow up. Learn how ancient herders changed our digestive gene pool in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/humans-built-drink-milk-adults.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/auto-safety-testing/escape-sinking-car.htm; https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/safety-regulatory-devices/auto-glass.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cherry blossom trees are so celebrated because their beautiful blooms are so short-lived. Learn about these trees (and how so many wound up in Washington, D.C.) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/cultural-traditions/cherry-blossom.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Starting in the 1930s, this adventurous Black woman toured the U.S., performed stunts, and served her country on motorcycles. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/bessie-stringfield.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It turns out that some tree squirrels have complex organization systems for their stashes. Learn how they hide and find exactly what they want in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/squirrels-really-organize-nuts.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Given the right depth, temperature, and access to volcanic gases, lakes can explode and kill thousands in the process. Learn how these limnic eruptions happen in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geophysics/what-makes-killer-lake-explode.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Palm oil is in lots of foods, cosmetics, and household products -- and that's a very serious thing. Learn the problems (and solutions) that palm oil presents in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/conservation/issues/palm-oil-is-everywhere-heres-why-that-matters.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OK may be the most frequently spoken word in the world -- but what does it stand for? How did it get here? Learn the etymology behind it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article -- okay? Okay! https://people.howstuffworks.com/history-ok.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ides of March is an artifact of an ancient Roman calendar that's stuck with us thanks to Julius Caesar getting himself assassinated and William Shakespeare writing about it. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/history-vs-myth/ides-of-march.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The many species of fruit bats around the world help pollinate our plants and spread their seeds far and wide. Learn more about these flying mammals in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/fruit-bats.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes, foods that require more effort for our bodies to digest (like meats) can cause us to sweat. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/digestive/are-meat-sweats-real-thing.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Susan B. Anthony went from a radical arrested for placing a vote to an honoree on U.S. currency within a century. Learn more about her life and work in both abolition and women's suffrage in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/susan-b-anthony.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elevators cables are inspected on the regular, but what happens when one breaks? Learn about the ingenious systems that keep elevators safe when even the worst happens in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/everyday-myths/question730.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Researchers, like zombies, are interested in brains of all kinds. Learn a few basics about how donating your brain to science works in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/nervous-system/5-things-didnt-know-about-donating-brain-to-science.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ocean can appear to be many different shades of blue (and green, and even violet) -- but all water is clear. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/oceanography/why-is-ocean-different-colors-different-places.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confusion about what a Brachiosaurus is started the moment paleontologists discovered one. Learn about these long-armed sauropods (and about the dino cousin they're often pictured as, Giraffatitan) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/dinosaurs/brachiosaurus.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The term 'critical race theory' started causing a lot of buzz back in 2020, but what does it really mean? And is it being taught in schools? Learn about this academic theory in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/critical-race-theory-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our brains release the hormone oxytocin during pleasant circumstances and bonding experiences -- but can we really take it to induce those experiences? Learn why it's complicated in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: thttps://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/endocrine/oxytocin.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pistol shrimp (aka snapping shrimp) can 'shoot' bubbles that go off louder than a gun and will stun prey or dig into rock. Learn more (including how they're inspiring nuclear fission research) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/pistol-shrimp.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As London grew throughout the 1800s, it became clear that there wasn't enough real estate for its deceased citizens. Learn how the London Necropolis Railway took the funerary show on the road in this classic episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beer and soda both form sudsy bubbles when you pour them, so why does soda's foam dissipate while beer's forms a head? Learn about foam physics in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/edible-innovations/beer-form-head-not-soda.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maya Angelou was a people's poet -- an artist, activist, and teacher whose words resonate from Supreme Court Justices to internet memes. Learn more about her through a few of her own quotes in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/maya-angelou-quotes.htm To hear more from today's writer, Yves Jeffcoat, listen to her podcast, On Theme: https://www.ontheme.show/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scurvy is a serious condition that's easily cured with access to vitamin C. Learn why humans get it (and why it was the scourge of the high seas) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/rare/scurvy.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cattle burp so much methane into our atmosphere that it's the equivalent of how much cars pollute every day. Learn what researchers are trying to do about the gassy situation in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/methane-cow.htm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The water cycle brings Earth's water from the clouds to the ground and back again -- but how did it get here in the first place? Learn about the leading theories in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geophysics/water-come-from.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These mantises look like beautiful, bright orchids -- and some use that to aggressively attract prey. Learn more in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/insects/orchid-mantis.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we lose weight, it doesn't just vanish. Learn how our bodies shrink fat cells in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/diet-fitness/weight-loss/lost-weight.htm/printableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some claims make it sound like probiotics are a cure-all, but what has research found so far? Learn more about these supplements for your microbiome in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/preventive-care/probiotic.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a pedestrian, crossing the street wherever you want can be dangerous -- which is why it's still technically illegal in many American jurisdictions. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/accidents-hazardous-conditions/jaywalking-crime.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Though beautiful, Bradford pear trees are invasive in the U.S., use up precious water, are brittle -- and smell decidedly funky. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://home.howstuffworks.com/whats-that-smell-dreaded-bradford-pear.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To celebrate the anniversary of poet Robert Burns' birth on January 25, 1759, Scottish people all over the world observe Burns Night each year. Learn about the verse, the bagpipes, and of course the haggis in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-other/get-out-haggis-its-burns-night.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

White dwarfs have almost all the mass of a normal star squished into a ball the size of our Earth -- and that comes with a lot of gravitational power. Learn how they can tear planets to shreds in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/white-dwarfs-shred-planets.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These adorable aquatic salamanders are voracious hunters -- and have myth-like powers of regeneration. Learn more about the axolotl in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/endangered-species/axolotl.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stop signs were always the red octagons we know today -- so how was the color chosen, and why has it stuck? Learn about the history and psychology of red traffic signals in this classic episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the outdated Presidential Fitness Test to today's FITNESSGRAM, Americans have been giving standardized fitness tests to middle school kids for decades. Learn the past and present of these exams in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/diet-fitness/exercise/could-pass-kids-middle-school-fitness-test.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buying a cheap phone containing prepaid minutes and texts with cash can help you preserve anonymity in some ways, but companies and governments still have ways of listening in. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://electronics.howstuffworks.com/burner-phones.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the early 1900s, psychologists went to great lengths to study their subjects without letting them know they were being watched. Learn more about their research (and about how ethical standards would prevent it from happening today) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-events/ridiculous-history-when-scientists-hid-beds-do-research.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bacteria may be tiny, but we can harness them to create food and medicine, to detect landmines and make blood safe for transfusions. Learn what we're still learning about how bacteria shape us and our world in this episode of BrainStuff, based on these articles: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/bacteria-communication.htmhttps://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/10-weirdest-sources-antibiotics.htm https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/scientists-call-for-global-germ-bank.htm https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/universal-blood-type.htm https://science.howstuffworks.com/bacteria-lasers-landmine-detection.htm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eco engineers are animals that vastly change the ecosystems they live in when they create their preferred habitats. Learn about a few, from hippos to tiny crabs, in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/5-animals-that-can-reshape-waterways.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neanderthals were more like us than we previously thought, but could they laugh? Learn why researchers think they could in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/evolution/yes-neanderthals-could-laugh.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fat provides a lot of flavor and texture in foods, so making something fat-free usually means reformulating it from the ground up. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/how-do-they-get-fat-out-of-fat-free-foods.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The kilogram used to be measured against an agreed-upon chunk of metal stored in France, but no longer. Learn the new measure of this standard unit of measurement in today's classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/math-concepts/kilogram-is-dead-meet-kilogram-20.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Newton Boys were a gang of brothers who made a business of robbing banks and trains in the 1920s. Learn how they largely got away with it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/newton-boys-bank-robbers.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 These giant trees grow trunk-like roots down from their branches and can cover the area of city blocks. Learn more about banyan trees in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/botany/understanding-roots-banyan-tree.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Male seahorses are the ones that carry babies to term and give birth, but the process is fairly different from most pregnancies. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/fish/male-seahorses-give-birth.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When crime and other legal tangles occur on a cruise ship, what laws apply depend on where the ship is registered and where it was located at the time. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/cruise-ship-law.htm/printableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marzipan is a sweet, moldable almond paste that gets worked into all kinds of holiday traditions. Learn about it (and about Glücksschwein, the good luck pig of the New Year) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article and podcast: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-facts/marzipan.htm; https://www.iheart.com/podcast/105-savor-28019899/episode/the-marzipan-episode-is-shaping-up-90864626/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Water usually appears clear, but ice cubes and ice on lakes often looks cloudy. Learn what has to happen for ice to freeze clear (like black ice does on roads) in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/atmospheric/why-ice-usually-freezes-cloudy-and-not-clear.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most of the trees decorated for Christmas don't naturally grow in a perfect cone shape -- so how do they get that way, and why did we decide on that shape in the first place? Learn about the history of Christmas trees in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://home.howstuffworks.com/do-christmas-trees-get-shape.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although this holiday has been around for a long time, the way we celebrate in the U.S. largely developed during the 1800s. Learn about the books, celebrities, and political cartoons that made Christmas in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-christmas/19th-century-invented-modern-christmas.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The human eye is basically only limited by the curvature of the Earth and stuff that gets in its way. (Well, and various medical conditions.) Learn how far we can see in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/question198.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paris has a centralized lost-and-found station that's received everything from umbrellas to human skulls. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/paris-lost-and-found.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Comstock Act was designed to criminalize anything considered indecent in the 1870s, from saucy personal letters to pamphlets about contraception. Learn how it's being revived today by anti-abortion activists in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/comstock-act.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These beautiful billfish have fins almost as big as their whole bodies. Learn more about sailfish in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/sailfish.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spoiler alert: Yes! Learn the science that makes wine and cheese go so well together in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/happy-hour-alert-cheese-really-improves-the-taste-wine.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This horned holiday demon has entered our pop culture consciousness, but where do Krampus legends come from? Learn about the history of Krampusnacht in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/cultural-traditions/where-did-krampus-come-from.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We think we have a solid scientific answer to this fun puzzler. Learn about the evolution of eggs and chickens in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/genetic/question85.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From humble planters to ancient statuary, terracotta is a seriously useful material. Learn more about this earthenware in today's epidose of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://home.howstuffworks.com/gardening/garden-design/terracotta.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The short answer here is 'very efficiently'! Though perhaps best known as the second man on the moon, Buzz Aldrin is a tireless champion of space exploration. Learn more in this episode of BrainsStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/buzz-aldrin.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These bright winter houseplants are better known for their leaves than their flowers, and they only get their color by being kept in the dark. Learn the history and science behind poinsettias in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-christmas/poinsettia.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zionism is the nationalist movement that established Israel and continues to support Judiaism's claim to that aland. It's also one of the most controversial and complex movements of our time. Learn how it got started in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/world-history/zionism.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These social, tree-dwelling monkeys are some of the smallest in the world. Learn more about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/marmoset.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Inca never developed a system of writing, but they kept records and told stories through intricate knotwork. Learn what researchers know -- and what they're still looking to find out -- about Inca khipu in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/cultural-traditions/unraveling-khipu-inca-knot-language.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You may have heard that the tryptophan in turkey causes holiday naps, but it might not be the real culprit. Learn some turkey science in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/edible-innovations/question519.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A lot of what's taught about 'the first Thanksgiving' is actually more Civil-War-era propaganda than true fact. Learn how this brief moment of peace might've gone down, plus how we got today's traditions, in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-other/10-thanksgiving-history-myths.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a gross but very useful fact that some insects will eat deceased humans, because scientists can observe those insects to learn about where and when a person died. Learn about forensic entomology in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/forensic-entomology.htm/printableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This cactus is a source of food and construction material for people and animals alike, especially during the dry season in the Sonaran Desert. Learn more about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/botany/saguaro-cactus.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When asphalt pavement cracks, a squiggle of black sealant can help prevent further damage. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/road-tar-squiggle-drizzle.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No matter what color(s) mountain ranges may be up close, when they're off in the distance, they appear blue. Learn how our eyes and the atmosphere trick us in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/mountains-appear-blue.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dog enthusiasts sometimes revel in how their pup's paws smell gloriously of corn chips, but what causes this scent? Learn the science behind Frito paws in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/why-dog-paws-smell-fritos-corn-chips.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the temperature drops (or bounces), are you more likely to get sick? Learn the science behind the old wives’ tale in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/cold-flu/can-change-in-temperature-really-make-sick.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's actually a natural limit on how tall trees can grow -- but what about circumference? Or total mass? Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/botany/tree-grow.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

London Bridge crosses the Thames in a place where lots of bridges have stood -- and technically fallen -- before. Learn about the history of these bridges (and the nursery rhyme) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/structural/london-bridge.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cone snails move slow, but catch prey fast with harpoons or clouds of paralyzing toxins. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/cone-snail.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Day of the Dead celebrates life by inviting the spirits of loved ones back home for feasting and fun. Learn about the history and traditions surrounding the holiday in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-other/day-dead.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When concerns about being accidentally buried alive swept Europe and North America in the 1800s, inventors (and showmen) came up with coffins that could let a living person escape -- or at least alert someone to come dig them up. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/afterlife/premature-burial-safety-coffins.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Genetics says "probably." In this episode of BrainStuff, learn what researchers found when they submitted supposed Yeti samples for genetic testing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warm foods can feel more filling than chilled foods, but why? Learn the possible explanations behind the cravings in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/why-hot-food-more-satisfying-than-cold.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before DNA-based paternity tests were accurate and inexpensive, scientists (and pseudoscientists) claimed all kinds of things could work. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/genetic/history-paternity-testing.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Because of the way flights are routed, pilots are sometimes able shave a few minutes from a flight plan while in the air. Learn why just flying faster wouldn't work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/flight/modern/do-pilots-make-up-time-in-air.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all find some sounds annoying, but for people with misophonia, certain sounds trigger strong feelings of anger and anxiety. Learn what researchers think causes this in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/human-brain/why-do-some-people-hate-the-sound-chewing-scientists-might-have-the-answer.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Chernobyl nuclear accident caused a lava-like flow of radioactive fuel and other materials that hardened into a giant mass now known as the Elephant's Foot. Learn how corium like this forms in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/chernobyl-elephants-foot.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These toothy fish are some of the largest in North America. Learn how they've lasted 100 million years in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/fish/alligator-gar-100-million-years-old-and-still-kicking.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Home burials are largely a thing of the past, but they're perfectly legal in most states -- once you check a few boxes. Learn how home burials work in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/afterlife/can-you-bury-someone-your-backyard.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen up, BrainStuff fans! We are super excited about a brand-new podcast called The Puzzler. It's a daily show jam-packed with, you guessed it, PUZZLES. We think you'll love this show, too but you don't have to just take our word for it. Check out this trailer to decide if you enjoy a daily puzzle fix like we do. Show Info: Finally, your daily puzzle fix—in audio form! Every day, in 10 minutes or less, New York Times bestselling author A.J. Jacobs and his celebrity guests will puzzle–and laugh–their way through new spins on old puzzle favorites, like anagrams and palindromes, as well as quirky originals such as “Ask Chat GPT” and audio rebuses. Plus, Chief Puzzle Officer Greg Pliska joins A.J. each week to present new puzzles from the Puzzle Lab. And there’s a daily Extra Credit Puzzler for our Puzzlers at home. (Answers revealed in the following episode.)  Tune in to The Puzzler on the iHeartRadio app, or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've ever noticed that airplane food is a little lackluster, the recipe isn't necessarily to blame. Learn how a plane's altitude and even engine noise can affect flavors in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/flight/modern/mile-bleh-club-why-airline-food-doesnt-taste-good.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have one particular guy to thank for the distinctive orange-yellow color of U.S. school buses. Learn how Frank Cyr helped revamp student transportation in the 1930s in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/why-are-school-buses-yellow.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Megamasers are astronomical phenomena that may mean galaxies have collided in the distant reaches of the universe. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/megamaser-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although hanging upside down for too long would eventually kill you, don't worry -- brief inversions (and even longer inversions) are fine. Learn why, plus how inversions can actually be good for you, in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/science-questions/hang-upside-down-how-long-safe-deadly.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alexander von Humboldt was a scientist with the means and fame to change how Europe thought about nature. Learn why he's sometimes called the first ecologist in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/oceanography/alexander-von-humboldt-and-humboldt-current.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These stinging sea creatures aren't jellyfish -- they're actually colonies of individual creatures working as one. Learn more about men-of-war and other siphonophores in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/portuguese-man-of-war.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

That sweet-milky-musky scent that newborn babies have is a combination of hundreds of compounds. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://lifestyle.howstuffworks.com/family/parenting/parenting-tips/recreate-new-baby-scent.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over 2000 years ago, Babylon was the largest, wealthiest city in the world -- but it didn't last. Learn about its past, present, and myths in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/history-vs-myth/babylon.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Which way should the plates face? What about the silverware -- handles up or down? Do you need to pre-rinse? Learn how to make your dishwashing machine work its best in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://home.howstuffworks.com/best-way-to-load-dishwasher.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Conventional wisdom says that eating carrots will give you better vision, but how true is that? Learn where the idea came from in this classic episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's best to give deceased beached whales a respectful amount of space because they can explode. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/beached-whales-explode.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The nursery rhyme about Humpty Dumpty (and his wall, and his fall) is omnipresent. But who (or what) was this guy, really? Learn about the weird history of this verse in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/arts/literature/humpty-dumpty.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These birds of prey are one of the fastest animals in the world -- engineers study them to make airplanes more aerodynamic. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/peregrine-falcons-are-one-fastest-animals-alive.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you knock on wood or avoid particular numbers? People around the world adhere to superstitions to attempt to change their luck -- and some of those superstitions are remarkably similar. Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/superstitions-universal-across-cultures.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dogs’ noses are often wet, but why? And does a dry nose mean your pup is sick? Learn what science has to say about dogs’ noses in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/why-do-dogs-have-wet-noses.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've ever found yourself swept up in a wave of sadness or anger during, say, Pigeon Pose, you're not alone. Learn more about what we know and don't know about yoga's effects on emotions in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/diet-fitness/yoga/yoga-makes-people-super-emotional-why.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There used to be safety concerns about some compounds used to flavor popcorn (diacetyl) and to grease-proof microwaveable bags (PFCs). They're mostly not used anymore, but making your own popcorn might still be safer. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/popcorn-lung.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sharks can be hatched from eggs, born live, or hatched in the womb and then born live -- if their siblings don't eat them first. Learn about shark reproduction and birth in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/fish/sharks/shark-pup.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we mean that someone has not quite succeeded, what do cigars have to do with it? Learn the carnival roots of this idiom in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/close-but-no-cigar.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having trouble sleeping? Join Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai for bedtime stories where nothing much happens to help you relax and sleep peacefully. The stories are a soft-landing spot for your mind. Rather than letting your brain race through the same thoughts you’ve been chasing all day, we are taking a detour to a calm and comfy place. We tell the story twice and go a bit slower the second time. Listen to Nothing Much Happens: Bedtime stories to help you sleep on the iHeartRadio App or wherever you get your podcasts. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-nothing-much-happens-bedti-29945275/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Libraries are bastions of knowledge -- but are they also bastions of germs? Short answer: Nope! For the long answer, tune in to this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/used-books-may-be-germy-but-wont-make-you-sick.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You've seen the trope: a character strains their psychic powers and gets a nosebleed to show for it. But would this actually happen if psychic powers were real? Learn the hypothetical science in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/extrasensory-perceptions/psychic-nosebleed-powers-really-happen.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ravens and crows are both large black birds with mythic reputations, but they're easy to tell apart once you know the differences between them. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/american-crows-and-ravens-whats-difference.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

British royals and lots of the world's other prominent families hire their nannies out of one century-old school: Norland College. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/european-history/norland-college-royal-nannies.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although it's much more common in women, men get breast cancer, too -- it's not abnormal because we're all mammals, and we all have some amount of breast tissue. Learn about the symptoms and treatments in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/breast/men-breast-cancer.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Gadsden flag -- with its coiled rattlesnake on a bright yellow field and the words 'don't tread on me' -- has symbolic roots stretching back before the American Revolution. Learn its history in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/revolutionary-war/dont-tread-on-me-flag.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello BrainStuff listeners, Grown-Up Stuff: How to Adult iHeart that we think you'll love.  Ever wish there was a road map to adulthood? Do you find yourself straight-up baffled by terms like 401k, PPO, and fabric softener? Welcome to “Grown-Up Stuff: How to Adult,” a podcast from Ruby, the iHeart Media Branded Audio Studio, dedicated to answering all of your questions about, well, grown-up stuff, like health insurance, weddings, laundry, retirement, credit, finding a home, and all the other things that keep you up at night.  Listen to Grown-Up Stuff: How to Adult on the iHeartradio app, or wherever you listen to podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rhodium's rarity, industrial usefulness, and straight-up shininess make it one of the most expensive metals on Earth. Learn how it was discovered and more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/rhodium.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The modern image of the elegant, gentle unicorn is a relatively recent invention. Learn about the history of unicorn myths and legends in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/strange-creatures/unicorn-in-history.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've teamed up with the podcast On the Job to bring you a preview of episode 8: The Tears and Tenacity of A Clown. Brandon Dunn was born into rodeo royalty. And for twenty years he fulfilled his destiny -- until a tragic car accident ended his career. Or nearly ended it. Brandon tells his story of loss and rehabilitation, and welcomes us into the fascinating world of rodeo clowning. Check out Brandon in action here: http://www.roblittle.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OK, it's not a literal highway, but the Cocos-Galapagos Swimway is a proposed safety zone for sea turtles and other animals to migrate. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/oceanography/cocos-galapagos-superhighway.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You won't find the word 'popsicle' on the packaging for some ice pops -- instead, they're called 'quiescently frozen confections'. Learn why this sciencey term is used instead of the more simple one in today's refreshed episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Toucans' beautiful bills have made them popular in selling everything from breakfast cereal to democracy, but those beaks have a number of other uses. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/toucan.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although it's not universal, a sprinkle of sea salt atop a chocolate chip cookie can make a simple snack transcendent. Learn why our brains dig the combination of salty and sweet in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/sweet-and-salty-taste-good.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Samuel Morse's ingeniously simple code of timed pulses has gone far beyond its original use on telegraph lines to help people communicate in all kinds of media for over a century. Learn more about Morse and his code in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/inventions/morse-code.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've teamed up with the podcast On the Job to bring you a preview of episode 7: Torque Wrenches Are This Girl's Best Friend. Demeny Pollitt is an automotive technician and the founder of Girlington Garage, a woman-run auto garage in South Burlington, Vermont. In operation since 2009, Pollitt’s business has not only survived, but thrived. Ms. Pollitt talks about taking the leap to entrepreneurship, entering a male dominated industry, and the joys/challenges of business ownership. WebsiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's an unpleasant health issue: If your microbiome is off in just the wrong way, your guts can get you drunk without consuming a drop of alcohol. Learn about auto-brewery syndrome in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/digestive/brewing-beer-in-belly.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oysters (and a few other shellfish) create beautiful pearls as a sort of bodily defense mechanism. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/question630.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A battle between two brothers created the second- and third-largest sneaker companies in the world. Learn the story of the brothers Dassler in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/family-feud-that-spawned-adidas-and-puma.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've teamed up with the podcast On the Job to bring you a preview of episode 6: Objective Unlocked! Finding work in this economy doesn't have to be arduous. Tune in to hear from Olivia, an Express Employment Professionals Employment Specialist-turned-Operations Manager and one of her Associates, Leon, who she's helped place, to find out how the process has impacted both of their lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even if we don't do it on purpose (which some people do!), all of us eat at least a little dirt every year due to accidental ingestion. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/how-much-dirt-eat-year.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the U.S. Coast Guard, a special group called aviation survival technicians train to rescue civilians from harrowing situations by jumping out of helicopters. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/rescue-swimmers.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Antidepressants of all kinds help save and improve lives, but many SSRIs carry warnings that they may increase suicidal thoughts, especially in young patients. Learn why it's worth the risk and the conversation in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/medicine/modern-treatments/antidepressants-warnings-suicidal-thoughts.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Besides weird. Or, including weird? Learn some of the strangest features of sea cucumbers in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/sea-cucumber-animal-or-vegetableSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've teamed up with the podcast On the Job to bring you a preview of episode 5: Rob Litttle, Cruise Ship Comedian - Key West, FL Rob Little has a very enviable work calendar. As a cruise ship comedian with over 200 outings to his credit, Rob has seen places and ports most of us only dream of. But life aboard the ship isn't all laughter and sunshine. Find out more about his set here (http://www.roblittle.com/) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fungus gets a bad rap sometimes, but the fungi amongi do incredibly important work breaking down dead stuff. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/fungi.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The famous Hollywood sign that overlooks Los Angeles is turning 100 this year -- but its longevity wasn't always assured. Learn its history in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-history/hollywood-sign-birthday.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Low- and no-alcohol beers are now just as tasty as the alcoholic versions thanks to a few advances in brewing technology. Learn the basics of how brewers do it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-science/brew-non-alcoholic-beer.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

E-commerce retailers like Amazon are able to offer next-day or even same-day shipping thanks to highly organized, centralized, data-driven systems of warehousing and transportation. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://money.howstuffworks.com/amazon-fast-delivery.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's not your imagination: Some seasons and dates have more birthdays than others. Learn the most and least popular birthdates (and how they're changing) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/genealogy/most-popular-birthdays.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Science fiction tells us our future depends on giant, humanoid robots protecting us and punching monsters. But could we really build those machines? Learn how close we are in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/could-build-own-gundams.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Prohibition came to an end, Al Capone's mobsters set their sights on the Chicago milk market. Learn about the Milk Wars in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-events/chicago-milk-wars.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the past hundred years, paleoartists have depicted T. rex with a mouth like a crocodile's -- toothy and lipless. But new research suggests these dinos may have had lizard-like lips. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/dinosaurs/t-rex-lips.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Terms like 'alpha wolf' are misleading -- in the wild, wolf packs are ruled by the wolves' parents, not through a pecking order. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/wolf-pack-mentality.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Einsteinium is a heavy, radioactive element that only exists on Earth when humans create it. Learn how it was first discovered and what we're still learning about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/einsteinium.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bulletproof vests have certainly saved lives, but exactly how bulletproof are they? Learn what they're made of and how they can fail to protect wearers in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/how-bulletproof-are-bulletproof-vests.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've teamed up with the podcast On the Job to bring you a preview of episode 4: If You Build A Pizza Oven, They Will Come. Jake Wright is a self-described rambling pizza rover. After a failed attempt at a career in music production, Jake decided to combine the two things in life that most excite him: pizza and welding. Now, he tows his mobile pizza oven around Texas, making pizzas at music festivals and rodeos.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before the U.S. Civil War, American mercenaries called 'filibusters' attempted to claim territory in Mexico and Central America for themselves. Learn about the well-deserved fate of one William Walker in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/william-walker.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The etymology of the term 'piggyback' goes back to the 1500s, when it had nothing to do with pigs. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/piggyback-ride.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the United Kingdom in the 1800s, anatomists wanted to study real bodies, but laws and cultural stigma made bodies hard to come by. Learn how the shocking Burke & Hare murder trials changed that in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/burke-and-hare-murderers-for-moneyand-science.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've teamed up with the podcast On the Job to bring you a preview of episode 3: Four Decades and Counting. Meet Terri Weldon, who has been working for Express Employment Professionals for over 40 years. She shares her secrets to long-term professional happiness -- ones that can apply to any workplace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Utahraptor was the largest known raptor -- up to 800 pounds, about the size of a large black bear or small grizzly. Learn how salt helped preserve their fossils in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/dinosaurs/utahraptor.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artists and sculptors have adorned their work with foliate heads for over a thousand years, but the myth of the Green Man only goes back a century. Learn how this motif became an icon in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/history-vs-myth/green-man.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many of our ideas about Cleopatra are based in contemporary propaganda and later pop culture, from Shakespeare to cinema. Learn the truth behind some of these myths in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/cleopatra.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've teamed up with the podcast On the Job to bring you a preview of episode 2: A Mother to the Rescue. As a thrill seeker and born caretaker, Aysia Bly found her dream job as a pediatric flight nurse — where she performs her duties while soaring above Philly in a helicopter. But the job is inherently dangerous, and as a mom to a young son, Aysia must contend with that risk every day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brightly colored fruit stands out against green leaves, but why is some red or pink, while others skew yellow or purple? And why are some fruits smellier than others? Learn what new research says about fruits' evolution in this episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the late 1800s, a Georgian businessman retooled a giant painting of the Battle of Atlanta to portray the South winning. Learn the history of this epic cyclorama -- and where you can see it today -- in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-civil-war/atlanta-cyclorama.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You can miss a period for lots of reasons other than pregnancy. Learn how stress (be it mental or physical), illness, and other factors can prevent menstruation in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/pregnancy-and-parenting/pregnancy/conception/5-common-reasons-for-late-period.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cans make preserving and transporting food and drinks simple, but canning technology is very complex. Learn the history of pull-tabs and can openers in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://money.howstuffworks.com/food-cans-pull-tabs.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve teamed up with the podcast On the Job to bring you a preview of their new season. In this first episode, ‘Now’s the Time’, economist, author, and baseball fan Michael Walden gives us a macro look at an economy that has bounced back surprisingly well post-COVID, and offers a generally favorable outlook about what’s coming down the pike. You can purchase his 'economic thrillers' at this Amazon Author Page.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every May, the U.S. celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in recognition of the contributions of this diverse group, past and present. Learn how two women campaigned to get it started in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/cultural-traditions/aapi-month-may.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A genus of flatworms called banded broodsacs have a lifecycle that seems to involve purposefully getting eaten first by snails and then by birds, using a combination of biomimicry and biohacking. Learn about Leucochloridium worms in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/insects/parasitic-worms-snails.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first machine for computation was designed in the 1800s! Learn how its creators, Charles Babbage and Ada Lovelace, set about inventing it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/inventions/who-invented-the-computer.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elephants have a thick hide that's wrinkled from birth, but why? Learn about the research that's revealed the secrets to elephant skin in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/scientists-figure-out-why-elephants-skin-so-cracked.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world's slimmest skyscraper is in New York City, where it's less than one-third of the width of comparable buildings. Learn about Steinway Tower in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/architecture/steinway-tower-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aboveground nuclear weapons testing in the 1950s and '60s has exposed every living thing on Earth to harmful radiation -- but has also made dating the remains of living things much more accurate. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nuclear-tests-bomb-pulse.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes our guts rumble when we're hungry, and sometimes when we're full. What gives? Learn about the digestive system and borborygmus in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/digestive/stomach-growling.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buying into disproven conspiracy theories has been scientifically linked with a few unhelpfully human patterns of thought, including illusory pattern perception and confirmation bias. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/human-brain/conspiracy-theorists-brains-really-are-different.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Motor vehicle license plates have been in use since 1903 in the U.S., and they've changed a lot over the years, from lifetime leather plates to newfangled digital ones. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/under-the-hood/cost-of-car-ownership/history-license-plates-in-us.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Researchers have found tiny glass beads on the moon, created by meteorite strikes, with droplets of water attached. Learn how they work -- and how we might be able to harvest that water -- in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/moon-glass-beads-water.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sudden exposure to bright light makes some people sneeze -- but why? Learn the leading theory in this episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hollywood bombshell Hedy Lamarr was as interested in engineering as she was in acting, but she's only recently been recognized for her scientific contributions. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this episode: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/famous-inventors/hedy-lamarr.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-science/maraschino-cherries.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even identical twins have different fingerprints -- that's because more than just genetics goes into their formation. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/why-even-identical-twins-have-different-fingerprints.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The spirituals created by enslaved African Americans as a means of expression and communication have impacted both artistic and social movements throughout U.S. history. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/cultural-traditions/slave-spiritual-music.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rainbows may look like they touch the ground somewhere off in the distance, but it's physically impossible for the viewer to reach the spot where it touches. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This angular, stemmed glass has been synonymous with the martini cocktail for nearly a hundred years. Learn more about the history of both the martini glass and cocktail in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/martini-glass.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you get the wind knocked out of you, your normally automatic breathing system is being temporarily interrupted. Learn how phrenospasm works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/respiratory/wind-knocked-out.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Researchers have identified at least one asteroid from another sun that's been hanging out in our solar system for billions of years. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/alien-asteroids-been-lurking-in-solar-system-since-beginning.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the early 1900s, women who fell deathly ill from working with radioactive paint fought back when their employers denied responsibility. They changed workers' safety laws -- though many didn't live to see the results. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-events/radium-girls.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recent health claims about coconut oil range from 'superfood' to 'pure poison'. Learn why the truth is somewhere in between in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/coconut-oils-superfood-pure-or-poison.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To crack ciphers written centuries ago, historical cryptologists have to be half artist, half accountant, and use some of the most powerful computing tools known today. Learn how a team cracked Mary, Queen of Scots's code in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/math-concepts/historical-cryptologists.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even seemingly passive activities (like listening to music) can interrupt our brains while we're doing something important (like driving). Learn why we're so bad at multitasking in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/human-brain/turn-down-radio-when-lost.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hi, BrainStuff fans! Listen to Inner Cosmos hosted by David Eagleman! Neuroscientist David Eagleman tackles the big and totally unexpected questions that live at the intersection of our brains and our lives. Don't just take our word for it, check out the trailer to decide for yourself!   About Inner Cosmos: Stanford neuroscientist and bestselling author David Eagleman explores wacky and insightful questions to reveal how modern brain science intersects with our lives, passions, and behaviors. Through thrilling journeys into your Inner Cosmos, Eagleman unfolds totally unexpected facets of our brains, allowing us to see the world from new angles.   Listen to Inner Cosmos on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the earliest, most common medical treatments in history (and prehistory!) involved drilling a hole in the patient's skull. Learn more about trepaning in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/medicine/surgeries-procedures/trepanation.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These large, land-dwelling flatworms are invasive and toxic -- but they're not dangerous (unless you eat a lot of them, or happen to be an earthworm). Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/hammerhead-worms.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1781, Elizabeth Freeman successfully sued her enslaver for her own freedom. Learn how freedom suits worked pre- and post-American Revolution in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/mum-bett.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Short answer: No one is sure. But it may have once been practical during production, and the dents (a.k.a. punts) in wine bottles are certainly useful now. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-facts/wine-bottle-dent-bottom.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A team of experts has come together to create a scholarly work that's long overdue: a dictionary detailing the historical and modern use of African American English. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/oxford-dictionary-african-american-english.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During his 35-year career with General Foods, William Mitchell invented some of America's favorite, fun, and time-saving junk foods. From quick-set Jell-O to Cool Whip, learn how he did it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/famous-inventors/meet-man-invented-cool-whip-tang.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tales of squid attacking ships go way back, and there are some known instances of squid attacking subs, but could a cephalopod really take down a modern vessel? Learn what researchers think in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/squid-attack-submarine.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We humans are fairly squishy, and we eat fairly squishy food. So how do we grow hard bones? Learn how it happens in this classic episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In France, the baguette isn't just the most popular type of bread -- it's an artisan product that's become a social keystone. Learn how French laws and UNESCO are upholding its traditions in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/french-baguette-unesco.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the 1400s through the 1900s, many kitchens made a specific breed of dog run in a wheel in order to rotate a spit of meat over the hearth's open fire. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/turnspit-dogs.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a snowfall, the world seems hushed -- for a while, at least. Learn why fresh snow muffles sound in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/atmospheric/quieter-after-snow.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Black American inventors have given us everything from secure mailboxes and practical lightbulbs to gas masks and blood banks. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/inventions/10-inventions-by-african-americans.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When concepts are as intertwined as weather and climate, it can be easy to mix them up. Learn the difference, and why it matters so much in discussions about the environment, in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/atmospheric/weather-and-climate-whats-difference.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These flightless birds are the second heaviest birds in the world -- they can grow as large as an adult human. Learn about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/cassowary.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kidney stones are urinary tract blockages known for causing a lot of pain, but it's the blockage itself (not the sharpness of the stones) that does it. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/kidney-urinary/kidney-stone-pain.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The global ocean covers some 70 percent of our planet, and its depths are still unexplored. Learn about its deepest trenches in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/oceanography/how-deep-is-ocean.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shrinkflation is when brands downsize their products while keeping their prices the same -- thus passing inflating costs on to you. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://money.howstuffworks.com/shrinkflation-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fluffy biscuits are a cornerstone of Southern cusisine, but they're a relatively recent invention. Learn the history behind this baked good in today's classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/history-light-and-fluffy-biscuits.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mildew is an early stage of mold that grows on surfaces before digging deeper. Learn how both work and how to stop them from growing in your home in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/difference-between-mold-mildew.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legal inqueries into divorce go way up in January, but March and August also see spikes in filings. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/divorce-rates-january-new-year.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These tiny packets are able to give off a lot of heat for a few hours thanks to the same process that causes rust to form -- just sped way up. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/disposable-hand-warmers.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fish do rest, but their versions of sleep doesn't look the same as ours. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/fish/do-fish-sleep.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a millennia-old idea that milk causes mucus production, and therefore that you should avoid milk if you're sick. Learn the truth in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/respiratory/milk-and-mucus-myth-busted.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kwanzaa is a relatively new holiday celebrating Pan-African culture, and the unity, creativity, and determination of its peoples. Learn the basics about Kwanzaa in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-other/kwanzaa.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Christmas Eve of 1826, dozens of West Point cadets had a bit too much (prohibited) alcoholic eggnog -- luckily, only reputations and barracks were hurt. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-events/ridiculous-history-heres-why-west-point-cadets-rioted-eggnog-1826.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Holidays can be expensive when you're only distributing a few gifts, not a few billion. Learn what Santa's yearly workshop budget must be in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-christmas/santa-claus-workshop-budget-will-blow-mind.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Medical professionals give us shots in different body parts based on how much medicine we need and what the medicine needs to do. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/medicine/medication/shots-in-arm-bum.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On average, tiny dogs live almost twice as long as really big ones -- and science isn't entirely sure why. Learn what we know (and don't know) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/longest-living-dog-breeds-tiny.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Latkes (that is, fried potato pancakes) are nearly synonymous with Hanukkah today -- but they've only been around for a couple centuries. Learn how they developed in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/latkes.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sports stadiums have a lot of grass that needs to be fertilized, and a lot of urine to dispose of. Learn how researchers are working to solve both problems at once in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/repurposed-inventions/recycling-stadium-urine-fertilizer.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is known that housecats will sit in any box available, large or small -- but science set out to determine whether cats can perceive (and will sit in) illusory boxes as well. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/cats-in-squares-study-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The tradition of kissing under mistletoe around Christmas is fairly new, but the traditions it's based on go way back. Learn about the hemi-parasitic roots of mistletoe in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-christmas/mistletoe.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You can contract an allergy to red meat from a tick bite thanks to a compound called alpha-gal. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/allergies/food-allergy/dairy-eggs-meat/meat-allergy-lone-star-tick.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Researchers who are currently looking into inexplicable lights and objects in the sky are calling them unexplained aerial phenomena (UAPs), not unidentified flying objects (UFOs). Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/space/aliens-ufos/uaps.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's happening when you get hiccups, and how can you stop them? Learn what science knows -- and doesn't know -- in this classic episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Snowflakes fall by the trillions during every snowstorm, so how could each one be unique? Learn about the incredible crystal physics behind snowflake development in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/atmospheric/is-every-snowflake-actually-unique.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We may never know exactly why Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer's nose glows -- but we have a few scientific suspicions. Learn about bioluminescence and atavisims in this episode of BrainStuff, based on these articles: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/bioluminescence.htm; https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-christmas/rudolph-red-nose-reindeer.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Research into a new wearable electronic patch made of graphene may make it possible to monitor blood pressure continuously and unobtrusively in the next few years. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/cardiovascular/blood-pressure/blood-pressure-tattoo-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Artemis space program is an international effort to put people back on the Moon within the next several years. Learn how the first mission is going in this episode of BrainStuff, based on these articles: https://science.howstuffworks.com/artemis-news.htm; https://science.howstuffworks.com/snoopy-artemis.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How high can helium balloons go before they burst? Do they always burst? Learn about the physics of escaped balloons in this classic episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Snoring can root from a number of causes, but sleeping on your side can usually help prevent it. Learn the science of snores in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/sleep/disorders/does-sleeping-on-side-stop-snoring.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asking customers for charitable donations at checkout can raise a lot of money -- and a lot of goodwill for the business. (And no, businesses can't write off your donations on their taxes.) Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://money.howstuffworks.com/checkout-charity-is-good-for-business.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This odd tradition seems to stem from early in the history of Thanksgiving being a national holiday, and has only gotten more formal (and more silly) in recent years. Learn about turkeys in the White House in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-history/presidential-turkey-pardon.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In California, human development has taken away migrating shorebirds' habitats -- so conservationists are renting rice fields during the farmers' off season to act as temporary habitats. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/conservation/issues/renting-rice-fields-farmers-migrating-water-fowl.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From 1920 to 1930, after the indigenous Osage people struck it rich with oil on their land, grifters scammed them out of millions -- and murdered a number of them in the process. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-history/osage-tribe-murders.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We know that eels spawn, like many marine mammals -- but spawning can take many forms. So how do eels do it? Learn what we know (and don't know) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/how-do-eels-reproduce.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The holder of this title is debated, but Earth's oldest tree is at least (at least!) 4,800 years old -- and may be much older. Learn about the contenders in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/botany/oldest-tree-in-world.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not having a permanent address or access to identifying documents can make voting in U.S. elections nearly impossible. Learn more about these challenges -- and what some organizations are doing to help -- in this episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You've heard of smallpox, but what was the great pox? And did Shakespeare have it? Learn about the spread of (spoiler alert) syphilis in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/arts/literature/pox-on-that-refers-to.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These social fish are fascinating for reasons far beyond their unique shapes. Learn about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/seahorses.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's very little that any U.S. president can do to affect gas prices in the short term. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://money.howstuffworks.com/president-gas-prices.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Short answer: Yes, totally. Human bodies all work a little differently, so it's possible to have an egg ready to go while you're having your period. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on these articles: https://health.howstuffworks.com/pregnancy-and-parenting/pregnancy/fertility/abnormal-menstrual-cycles-and-fertility.htm; https://health.howstuffworks.com/pregnancy-and-parenting/pregnancy/fertility/pregnant-during-period.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In hotly contested elections, campaigns flood television channels and streaming services with ads for or against the people running. Learn when they can make a difference in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/do-campaign-tv-ads-change-voters-minds.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cemeteries and other places where we inter or honor the dead are often at least a little unsettling. Learn about the psychology and philosophy behind this phenomenon in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/afterlife/scary-graveyard.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plenty of things are scary these days, so why do people pay good money to see horror movies and go to 'haunted' houses? Learn why psychologists say these fearful experiences are helpful in today's classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/emotions/why-love-to-be-scared.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lamia is a character from Greek myth who, in various tellings, devours children or seduces men. Learn about her legends in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/history-vs-myth/lamia.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's not necessarily fun (nor on purpose), but yes, some people sleep with one or both eyes partially open. Learn how nocturnal lagophthalmos works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/sleep/disorders/can-fall-asleep-with-eyes-open.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's megafauna are tiny compared with history's largest dinosaurs. Learn a few theories about how these animals got so big in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/extinct-animals/why-were-prehistoric-animals-big.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No, it's not radioactive noodles -- nuclear pasta is the term for weird material produced in neutron stars. Learn why astrophysicists are so interested in how it works in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nuclear-pasta-is-super-macaroni-universe.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rising price of caskets has outpaced even the rising rate of inflation -- but why? Learn what industry experts think in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/funerals/caskets-so-expensive-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows we see on trees in the fall are actually part of trees' defense mechanisms against the oncoming winter. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/botany/leaves-turn-red.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Redrawing voting district lines in your favor is an accepted (and legal) political play -- in some cases. Learn the differences between redistricting and gerrymandering (and how minority voters figure in) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/redistricting-gerrymandering.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mucus is gross, but it does a lot of good in humans and the many other animals that produce it. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/respiratory/mucus.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Astronomers have long suspected that Jupiter contains lots of water, but they've never been able to prove it. Learn about the new research that could help -- and thus solve lots of questions about our solar system -- in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/great-red-spot-may-expose-jupiters-watery-secret.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you wreck a car during a test-drive, would you have to pay for it? Learn how car dealers handle this surprisingly rare occurance in today's classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/accidents-hazardous-conditions/what-happens-if-wreck-car-on-test-drive.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A few people did strike it rich in the American Gold Rush of the 1800s -- but none of them were looking for gold. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-history/gold-rush.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Researchers have recorded some shatteringly cold temperatures on our generally mild planet -- but the answer to this question depends on your definition of "on". Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/atmospheric/coldest-place-on-earth.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Everyone has bad dreams sometimes, but if nightmares plague you, mental exercises or physical treatments might help. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/sleep/dreams/nightmares.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It takes a lot of water and some toxic chemicals to dye our denim blue. Learn how research into chitosan could make the process more environmentally friendly in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-tech/sustainable/denim-dyeing.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North American hognose snakes are among the creatures that will dramatically feign death to escape predators. Learn about these reptiles (and thanatosis) in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/snakes/hognose-snake.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We associate nitrates with processed meats, but they occur in vegetables, too -- and they're not all bad. Learn more about nitrates and nitrites in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/nitrates.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our changing climate is creating all kinds of effects -- including some surprising historical reveals. Learn about a few of the human remains, dinosaur tracks, and WWII relics that receding waters have uncovered in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/archaeology/droughts-uncover-ancient-artifacts-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Queen Elizabeth II died in September of 2022, she left a legacy that includes at least a couple of Welsh Pembroke corgis. Learn about her history with this breed in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/queen-corgis.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The pinky toe is actually an important element in how we humans usually walk, jump, skip, etc. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/parts/surprise-pinky-toe-does-serve-purpose.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Muskrats are clever semi-aquatic rodents with a distinct musky scent. Learn more about them (and, yes, 'Muskrat Love') in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/muskrat.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Would you live in a city 100 miles long but only 650 feet wide? Learn about Saudi Arabia's ambitious Neom Project in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/civil/the-line-saudi-arabia-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have retreats for everything else, so why not survival post-breakup? Learn how these camps hope to help the broken hearted, plus what emotional work they won't cover, in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/relationships/tips/breakup-bootcamp-surviving-broken-heart.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the U.S., 17.6 million people lack access to healthy food because there aren't any grocery stores or other shops that sell fresh food nearby. Learn about food deserts and how we can fix them in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/americans-still-lack-access-to-healthy-food.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Around the turn of the 20th century, career criminal George C. Parker 'sold' property he didn't own, from the Brooklyn Bridge to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, dozens of times over. Learn more about his scams in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/conman-sold-brooklyn-bridge.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gallium is super rare, really useful in LEDs and smartphones, and will melt in your hand -- but won't boil until it hits 4000 degrees Fahrenheit. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/gallium.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When animals sploot (that is, lay flat on their bellies with their limbs spread out) on a hot day, they're taking advantage of a cool surface. Learn about humans' sweating versus other animals' splooting in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/splooting.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Social media is designed to keep you scrolling -- but too much negative news can be, well, too much. Learn why we doomscroll and how you can stop in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://computer.howstuffworks.com/internet/social-networking/networks/doomscrolling.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intestinal parasites that plagued our ancestors seem to have led to a genetic adaptation that's causing emphysema and COPD today. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/respiratory/viking-toilet-investigation-emphysema.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Statues of this jolly fellow adorn the register counters of many restaurants -- but he's not the Buddha. Learn about this Buddhist deity in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/that-fat-jolly-fella-isnt-buddha.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite being a widespread condition, Alzheimer's is notoriously difficult to diagnose and treat. Learn why (plus how researchers hope to make it easier) in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/dementia/why-is-it-so-hard-to-find-cure-for-alzheimers.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During fall and spring migrations, building lights can confuse birds, causing deadly crashes. Learn how Lights Out programs are helping in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/lights-out-program-birds.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Baby kangaroos live in their mother's pouch for months after birth, and return sometimes even after they're mobile. Learn why, plus what it's like in there, in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/kangaroo-pouch.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Up to 1 in every 50 pregnancies are ectopic -- that is, they implant outside the uterus and cannot be saved. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and confusion surrounding this common issue in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/pregnancy-and-parenting/pregnancy/complications/10009-what-is-an-ectopic-pregnancy.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. Federal Reserve is responsible for keeping the country's economy running smoothly. Learn why interest rate changes are one of the Fed's tools in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://money.howstuffworks.com/fed-change-interest-rate.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Birds can migrate thousands of miles and back home again with no prior knowledge or assistance thanks to their superpowered vision. Learn about magnetoreception in this classic episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a tipping point at which even lottery skeptics buy tickets for a big jackpot -- and lottery companies bank on it. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/human-nature/behavior/powerball-tipping-point-what-size-jackpot-makes-you-play.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Public health organizations around the world are trying to control this year's outbreaks of monkeypox with vaccination programs. Learn about monkeypox and its vaccines in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/respiratory/monkeypox.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the 1960s, the U.S. Central Intellience Agency tried to turn a cat into a cyborg secret agent with implanted audio equipment. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-events/acoustic-kitty.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some of baseball's minor leagues are already using tech called the automated ball-strike system to help human umpires call pitches more accurately. Learn about these so-called robo-umpires in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/robot-umpires-baseball-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Snails the size of your fist are invading central Florida. Learn how this invasive species works in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/giant-african-land-snails-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Research shows that artists' brains don't respond to monetary motivation the way that other people's do. Learn why this might be -- and whether it means we creative types are doomed to poverty -- in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/human-nature/perception/are-artists-hardwired-for-poverty.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most hydrogen peroxide sold to consumers comes in opaque brown bottles. Learn why in today's classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/why-does-hydrogen-peroxide-come-in-brown-bottle.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most scientific inquiry into birdsong has studied male birds because they're sometimes chattier. Learn what studying female birds might teach us in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/know-why-female-bird-sings.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The American Constitution was a hard-fought compromise between states with large and small populations. Learn about the New Jersey Plan vs. the Virgina Plan in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/virginia-plan-vs-new-jersey-plan.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if we haven't made alien contact because they're keeping Earth like a zoo? It may be unlikely, but learn about the zoo hypothesis in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/space/aliens-ufos/zoo-hypothesis.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some clothing and bedding is advertised as 'cooling,' but what does that mean? Do they really work? Learn about how some fabrics can cool you down in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/everyday-innovations/cooling-fabrics.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lyme disease, which is caused by bacteria spread by ticks, is very treatable when caught early. Learn the symptoms and how to prevent it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/infectious/lyme-disease.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anxiety can cause sweaty palms and armpits -- but why? And how can you combat it? Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/men/sweating-odor/anxiety-cause-underarm-sweat.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Astronauts report that our little corner of space has a particular scent. Learn what might cause this in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/space-smell.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans have been using urine to test for pregnancy for thousands of years -- with the help of wheat, barley, rabbits, and frogs. Learn how reliable home tests became available in 1978 thanks to immunoassay technology in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/pregnancy-and-parenting/pregnancy/conception/rabbit-pregnancy.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dogs have eyes that are primed to see motion better than color, but they're not colorblind. Learn more about dogs' vision in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/are-dogs-colorblind.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if traffic lights could adjust for the actual flow of traffic happening at any given moment? Learn how smart, networked technology could help drivers (and pedestrians) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/civil/smart-traffic-lights-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sure, you can get a watermelon to burst by squeezing it with rubber bands, but sometimes this fruit explodes all on its own. Learn how microbes and genetics are responsible in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/exploding-watermelon.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Insect populations are in trouble, but creating shelters for them could help. Learn the basics of building an insect hotel in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/insects/insect-hotel.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Research shows that parts of a person's face grow cooler depending on their mood and stress level. Could this be used to help people in stressful jobs, like pilots? Learn more in this classic BrainStuff episode, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/nervous-system/concentration-makes-face-grow-cooler.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On a cellular level, a lot goes on from ovulation through the first stages of pregnancy. Learn about the biology of fertilization and implantation in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/pregnancy-and-parenting/pregnancy/conception/conception-process.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The volcano that sits under the surface of Yellowstone National Park could do massive damage, but it isn't likely to erupt anytime soon. Learn more about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/what-if/what-if-yellowstone-supervolcano-erupted.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Supreme Court's ruling in Roe v Wade in 1973 guaranteed national rights to some types of abortions. Learn how the case was decided and how it was overturned in this episode of BrainStuff, based on these articles: https://money.howstuffworks.com/10-overturned-supreme-court-cases.htm; https://people.howstuffworks.com/famous-supreme-court-cases.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beyond the U.S. gun control debate, another question deserves examination: Why are schools so frequently the sites of mass gun violence in America? We explore the psychology and potential solutions in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/why-do-school-shootings-keep-happening-in-us.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the age of 67, Emma Gatewood became the first woman to hike the Appalachian Trail alone in a single season. Learn her story in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/grandma-gatewood.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Turning your AC's temperature setting up a few degrees can save a lot of money, but turning the unit off isn't usually necessary. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://home.howstuffworks.com/green-living/should-turn-ac-up.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Infant formula mimicking breastmilk was only invented in the past 150 years, but babies have been hungry forever. Learn what caregivers used to do when breastmilk was unavailable in this episode of BrainStuff: https://health.howstuffworks.com/pregnancy-and-parenting/baby-health/infant-health/infant-formula-history.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa is a technical masterpiece, but the portrait wasn't famous until centuries after its creation. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/arts/artwork/mona-lisa.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Magpies, though sometimes maligned, are fascinating birds that can recognize themselves in mirrors and have funerary practices. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/magpie.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People are drinking more wine than they used to. Could the ever-increasing size of wine glasses be behind this trend? Learn how today's average serving stacks up against history's in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-facts/much-does-favorite-wine-glass-hold.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If your cat licks you, you may have wondered: Are they trying to groom you? Are they being affectionate? Do you has a flavor?? Learn about cats' licking behavior in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/why-does-cat-lick-me.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cities around the world are appointing Heat Officers to identify dangers and help protect citizens from rising temperatures. Learn how these officials work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/atmospheric/chief-heat-officers-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The symbols for the dollar ($), euro (€), rupee (₹), and pound (£) are everywhere, but how did they come to be? Learn the history behind these symbols in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://money.howstuffworks.com/currency-symbols.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If rehab helps patients recover after a surgery, prehab helps patients get ready for that recovery beforehand. Learn how prehabilitation works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/medicine/surgeries-procedures/prehab-before-surgery.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. House has passed legislation that would mandate more background checks during gun sales, but these bills (H.R. 8, H.R. 1446, and the Protecting Our Kids Act) are stuck in the Senate. Learn more about how they would change the law in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/hr8-gun-background-checks-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dogs are pretty much guaranteed to find the smelliest stuff to roll in -- but why? Learn what may be behind this gross instinct in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/dogs-love-rolling-in-stinky-stuff.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Santa Anas are winds that sweep hot air over Southern California, both clearing the air and exacerbating wildfires. Learn how they work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/atmospheric/santa-ana-winds.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It turns out that as a species, alligators have remained unchanged for millions of years longer than anyone knew. Learn how researchers discovered this in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/reptiles/alligator-species-8-million-years-old.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cabin pressure systems haven't changed much over the decades, but the controls for them have gotten safer and more sensitive. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/flight/modern/airplane-cabin-pressure.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you freckle or tan, your skin is trying to protect you from damage. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Echidnas are spiny, toothless, egg-laying mammals -- and they only get weirder from there. Learn more about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/echidna.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a shortage of baby formula strikes, health-care providers and a number of organizations can help. Learn who to contact, and what switches in formula are safe for babies, in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://lifestyle.howstuffworks.com/family/parenting/babies/baby-formula-shortage-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The most popular modern bidet was invented in the U.S., so why hasn't this technology caught on here? Learn the history of the bidet in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://home.howstuffworks.com/bidet.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even though Earth is the largest rocky body in our solar system, we don't have the largest mountain -- not by a long shot. Learn how Mars took the title in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/tallest-mountain-in-solar-system.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A study investigating the microbes and bugs in chimpanzee beds versus human beds showed that chimps are cleaner than we are. Learn about the study's results in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/bed-has-more-poop-than-chimps.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some words like 'disgruntled' and 'ineffable' -- informally called lonely negatives -- don't have a positive counterpart in English. Learn how a few of them came to be in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/lonely-negative.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Snakes have several fascinating reproductive tricks up their sleeves (scales?). Learn about the wild world of dual penises, delayed fertilization, egg incubation, and mating balls in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/snakes/how-do-snakes-mate.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Manifest Destiny was the idea that European colonists in the early U.S. had a God-given duty to expand across the continent. Learn how it worked then and continues today in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-history/manifest-destiny-america.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The coconut crab is the world's largest land-dwelling arthropod -- they grow longer than your average dog and can open coconuts with their claws. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/coconut-crabs.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first instance of "May the Fourth be with you" was a celebration of politics, not fandom. Learn more about this history of Star Wars holidays in May in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/why-exactly-is-may-4th-a-star-wars-holiday.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Serpent Mound, a vast effigy built on a meteorite crater's edge in what's now Ohio, may be 900 years old -- or much older. Learn what we know and don't know in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/archaeology/ohio-serpent-mound.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anhedonia is a mental health condition where normally pleasurable things, from music to food to conversation to touch, don't feel good anymore. Learn what we're still learning about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/mental-disorders/anhedonia.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Designing drones that can land and perch anywhere would be really useful, but it's harder than it may sound. Learn how researchers have pulled it off in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/perchiing-drones-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Myths about lightning abound, but this one is true: It's safest to avoid running the taps during a thunderstorm. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/storms/dangerous-to-bathe-during-thunderstorm.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bunnies and hares have a number of distinct traits -- as does Bugs himself. Learn whether he leans rabbit or hare in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/bugs-bunny-rabbit-or-hare.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Switching to Daylight Savings Time gives us an extra hour of sunlight in the evenings during Spring and Summer months -- but is it helpful or hazardous? Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geophysics/permanent-daylight-saving-time-news.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some parents and advocacy groups recommend against allowing children to play with toys that resemble weapons. But is there any science to back that up? Learn about play, parenting, and aggression in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/human-nature/behavior/playing-with-toy-guns-lead-to-actual-gun-violence.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Holly Frey, host of Stuff You Missed in History Cass, sits down with Naibe Reynoso, one of the ten winners of Seneca Women to Hear: Search for the Next Great Female PodcastersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who were the first people to drink lemonade? How did it turn pink? Learn the folklore behind lemonade in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/what-is-history-lemonade.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As audio technology developed during the 1900s, people realized that they needed a clearer way to communicate terms than spelling them out in the normal alphabet. Learn how the NATO phonetic alphabet (Alfa, Bravo, Charlie, etc.) came to be in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/phonetic-alphabet.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The magic microbe that makes bread rise and beer alcoholic is yeast -- often, the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Learn how it works in this episode of BrianStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/tools-and-techniques/yeast.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1921, Bessie Coleman became the first Black American woman to earn a pilot's license. Learn about her life and legacy in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/flight/classic/bessie-coleman.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The idea that humans have a worse sense of smell than other animals is a pervasive myth. Learn the reality in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/nose-throat/human-sense-smell-good-as-dog.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Conventional wisdom has long said fish oil pills are a great nutritional boost, but recent research shows they don't have the cardiovascular benefits we once thought. Learn who should still consider taking them in this episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Squid can communicate via patterns they flash on their skin, and the way they create those patterns is stranger than anyone thought. Learn what researchers are learning about it in this episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gas prices have been high recently in the U.S., but the national average has gone higher (once you account for inflation). Learn how gas pricing works in the U.S. and around the world in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/fuel-efficiency/fuel-consumption/highest-gas-payment.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yes, Earth has a pulse: peaks of geologic activity that occur every 27.5 million years, and herald mass extinctions. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geophysics/earths-pulse.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1867, Russia sold the territory of Alaska to the United States -- a perhaps confusing move, given that Canada was right next door. Learn how it happened in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-history/why-didnt-russia-sell-alaska-to-canada.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It turns out that compounds in some raw fruits and vegetables mimic the compounds that cause seasonal allergies, and thus make you itchy when you eat them. Learn more about oral allergy syndrome in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/allergies/food-allergy/information/hay-fever-allergic-fruits.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the 1960s, Dolores Huerta worked alongside Cesar Chavez to create the United Farm Workers union and organize for farmworkers' rights across America. Learn more about her legacy and continuing work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/dolores-huerta.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your car's empty-tank light can sneak up on you, and it's easy to put off filling up for another day. But are you damaging your car when you do? Learn why it's not good to run your car on empty in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/fuel-efficiency/fuel-economy/is-it-bad-to-drive-car-with-nearly-empty-gas-tank.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Implicit biases change the way we act without us even realizing it, and doctors aren't immune. Learn how we can identify and change our unconscious biases in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/medicine/healthcare/doctors-biases-health-care.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plutonium may be as misunderstood as it is useful -- and potentially dangerous. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/plutonium.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The United States produces a lot of oil, but we also import (and use) a lot. Learn why oil independence isn't on the horizon yet in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/energy/cut-dependence-foreign-oil.htmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The apples you find in your chain grocery store may have been picked a year ago -- but that's OK. Learn about apple storage technology in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/grocery-store-apple-one-year-old.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When FDA employee Frances Kelsey called for caution regarding the drug thalidomide in the 1960s, she wound up saving babies and changing FDA guidelines as we know them. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/frances-kelsey-thalidomide.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Google Glass to Crystal Pepsi, the Museum of Failure celebrates the spirit of innovation behind flops and failures. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://adventure.howstuffworks.com/destinations/landmarks/museums-tours/museum-failure.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intelligence is tricky to define, but research has shown that wolves understand cause and effect where dogs don't. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/wolves-are-smarter-than-dogs.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Researchers have set out to catalog the scent compounds that make books and libraries smell so welcoming. Learn how in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/odor-wheel-smell-old-books.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've ever had to apologize for what you said when you were hungry, you may be comforted to know that hanger is real. Learn what causes is -- and how you can stop or even prevent it -- in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/emotions/is-hanger-real-emotion.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The bootlace worm, Lineus longissimus, is as thin as a pencil but can grow as long as a blue whale. Learn about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/bootlace-worm.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Liquid smoke, a flavoring used by food manufacturers and home cooks alike, is made from real, purified wood smoke. Learn how it's made in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-facts/liquid-smoke.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dollar stores actually have high profit margins for charging so little per item. Learn how they work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://money.howstuffworks.com/personal-finance/budgeting/dollar-store.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confirming what dog owners already know, new research shows that dogs really do want to help us when we're sad or upset. Learn how the experiments worked in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/your-dog-really-wants-to-help-when-youre-upset.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a phrase: big bada-boom. Learn how hurricanes and volcanoes intensify each other in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/storms/battle-epic-hurricane-vs-volcano.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's obvious that we all have color preferences, but recent research may have discovered why. Learn how the experiments worked in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/favorite-colors.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Time zones are based on longitudinal lines that all intersect at the poles -- so what time is it at the North or South Pole? Learn how this tricky situation is handled in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geophysics/north-south-poles-time-zones.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rabbits and hares have a long literary reputation for going mad in March -- which happens to be the beginning of their breeding season. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/do-rabbits-really-go-crazy-in-march.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In ancient Greece and Rome, cursing foes via written tablets was sometimes wildly popular. Learn how curse tablets worked in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/cultural-traditions/curse-tablets.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To punish foreign governments without using weaponry, the U.S. often turns to sanctions. Learn more, plus a bit about sanctions against Russia, is this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/sanctions.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phytoplankton are responsible for a lot of the oxygen we breathe, and their wellbeing is made possible by... deserts. Yes. Learn how the Sahara Desert and other dusty debris feeds our oceans in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/saharan-dust-good-bad-and-gritty.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spoiler alert: Totally. Bees and other insects can learn, and thus be trained, using scents. Learn how they could sniff out everything from bombs to cancer in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/insects/bees-can-be-trained.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unfortunately, the answer is that no one is entirely sure -- myths about pirates outnumber confirmed details. Learn what we do know about Anne Bonny and Mary Read in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/anne-bonny.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The outer layers of the sun's atmosphere are hotter than its surface, and researchers think it might have to do with magnetohydrodynamics. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/why-sun-atmosphere-hotter-than-surface.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After the American Civil War, Southern governments created laws to keep freed Black people working without pay or legal recourse. Learn how the Black Codes shaped history in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-civil-war/black-codes.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This type of brown bear lives only on an Alaskan archipelago and has evolved to be one of the biggest bears in the world. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/kodiak-bear.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our poop is filled with useful information about us, including viruses like the one that causes COVID-19. Learn how researchers are using wastewater to warn communities about potential outbreaks in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/tracking-coronavirus-wastewater.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Figuring out what foods were on ancient menus can be tricky, but a mummy called Ötzi the Iceman was preserved with his last meal still intact. Learn what scientists found out about his eating habits in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/biology-fields/otzi-iceman-ate-high-fat-last-meal.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The gender roles of traditional stage magicians and 'lovely assistants' can seem outdated, but behind the scenes, the work has always been pretty equal. Learn how being a magician's assistant works in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/arts/circus-arts/is-lovely-assistant-real-magician.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A particularly bright light in the sky, affectionately nicknamed a 'cosmic cow', seems to be a baby black hole or neutron star. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/cosmic-cow-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Photographer Ernest Withers took iconic photos that helped the Civil Rights movement -- and also informed on its inner workings to the FBI. Learn more about this mystery in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/ernest-withers-civil-rights-documentary-or-informant.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OK, water is scentless, but lots of non-human animals track down sources of it with their noses. Learn why humans aren't so good at that in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/evolution/humans-smell-fresh-water-evolution.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flamingos work hard to keep their feathers brightly colored, inside and out. Learn how in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/flamingos-pink-plumage-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We think of DNA being a mostly internal thing, but researchers have collected a surprising amount of animal DNA from thin air. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/genetic/edna-suck-thin-air-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some gesticulations come naturally -- scratching your head when you're thinking is so common that it's basically a cliche. But why? Learn what researchers have to say in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/why-do-scratch-heads-when-were-thinking.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plastics clog our ecosystems and our roads need maintenance -- could fixing one problem help solve the other? Learn how researchers are recycling plastics into useful materials in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/recycled-plastic-waste-creates-roads.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2022 Winter Olympics are the first to use primarily artificial snow in outdoor games like skiing and snowboarding. Learn how athletes compensate for the difference in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://adventure.howstuffworks.com/outdoor-activities/snow-sports/difference-between-fake-snow-real.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The set of emotions we call 'love' is both a psychological phenomenon and a societal construct. Learn more about how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/relationships/love/why-do-we-fall-in-love.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bass Reeves was one of the first Black deputy marshals in the Old West, and one of the most successful. Learn more about him in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/bass-reeves.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three of the most popular to-go breakfast foods in the U.S. don't necessarily serve as the best nutritional start to your day. Learn which may keep you going the longest in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/bagel-muffin-doughnut.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans lose muscle when we don't use it, but squirrels can gain muscle during winter hibernation -- thanks to their gut bacteria. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/squirrels-get-jacked-during-hibernation-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Birds and other animals can learn to "talk" to one another, and even work together to spread warnings about predators nearby. Learn how it works in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/can-bird-species-talk-with-each-other.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Toothpaste actually predates the toothbrush in dental hygiene's history. Learn the long history behind this everyday item in today's classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/oral-care/products/history-toothpaste.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Madam C. J. Walker was a Black entrepreneur who built a beauty empire from scratch over a century ago, and her legacy of philanthropy and community support lives on. Learn about Madam Walker in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/madam-cj-walker.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The way our brains process scent is definitely tied to memory and emotion -- but do some scent compounds work like anti-anxiety medicine? Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/what-makes-scent-soothing.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When spacecraft in orbit stop working, it's ideal to bring them safely back to Earth. Learn about Point Nemo, the remote crash zone for old spacecraft, in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/south-pacific-graveyard-where-spacecraft-go-to-die.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite their name and their somewhat scary appearance, 'Vampyroteuthis infernalis' aren't infernal blood-suckers. Learn why they're pretty cool anyway in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/vampire-squid-dont-actually-suck-blood.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our eyes are as individual as our fingerprints, but their shade can change over time. Learn why this is common in babies during the first couple years of their life in this episode of BrainStuff: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/eye/babies-eyes-change-color.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NASA's DART mission aims to subtly alter the orbit of one small asteroid around another -- and thus change the trajectory of objects outside Earth for the first time. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff: https://science.howstuffworks.com/dart-nasas-asteroid-redirecting-mission-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some researchers think that eventually, a rift that's forming in West Africa could become a whole new ocean. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/oceanography/earth-get-new-ocean.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Consumers are spending billions via food delivery apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats, but no one -- not the drivers, the restaurants, or the apps themselves -- are seeing much profit. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://money.howstuffworks.com/food-delivery-make-money-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Uranium gives glass products an unearthly glow -- and luckily for collectors, the stuff is basically safe to handle. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/arts/artwork/uranium-glass.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On a clear night, the stars seem to wink and twinkle in the sky. Learn why in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/why-do-stars-twinkle.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celebrities and Instagrammers have been singing the praises of activated charcoal as a health supplement, but can it really help make you healthier? Learn the real science in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/why-are-people-eating-activated-charcoal.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scientists were able to release the mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 (from Pfizer and Moderna) quickly because of decades of prior research -- and how adaptable mRNA treatments are. Learn the history and what the incredible future may hold in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/medicine/modern-technology/mrna-technology-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What started as a simple remembrance of a mother and schoolteacher has become a worldwide movement dedicated to reading and sharing books. Learn how Todd Bol started LFL in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/arts/literature/todd-bol-and-little-free-library-movement.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Practicing social distancing to prevent the spread of disease isn't just solid science -- it's an instinct in other mammals, like bats. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/social-distance-vampire-bats.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Table salt, Kosher salt, sea salt, pink salt -- it may all be sodium chloride, but you can't always directly substitute one kind of salt for another in recipes. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on these articles: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-facts/difference-between-kosher-salt-table-salt.htm, https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/edible-innovations/all-salt-is-not-same.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crime doesn't pay -- but penetration testing does. Learn why companies pay hackers to break into their networks and offices in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://computer.howstuffworks.com/hack-networks-security-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sure, scent hounds' noses are powerful tools -- but their ears may be the secret to their success. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/why-do-scent-hounds-have-long-floppy-ears.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We attribute lots of potential health effects to green tea, but the Victorians had a strange one: they thought it caused hallucinations. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/natural-medicine/herbal-remedies/does-green-tea-cause-hallucinations.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Poets like Shakespeare have written extensively in a particular type of verse called iambic pentameter. Learn what it is and how to write in it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/arts/literature/iambic-pentameter.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When some massive stars go supernova, they then collapse into magnetars -- the most powerful magnetic objects in the known universe. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/magnetars.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Around ten of the world's smallest porpoise, the vaquita, are alive today -- but researchers think they can be brought back from the brink of extinction. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/vaquita.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It would take a LOT of carrots (or other veg pigmented with carotenoids), but yes, the color from carrots can build up in your skin. Learn how carotenemia works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/carotenosis.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most people identify as being at least a little superstitious, mariners included. Learn why bananas and suitcases, of all things, are often turned away from fishing boats in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/fishing-superstition.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Museums collect all kinds of art and artifacts -- this one collects pieces of broken hearts. Learn about some of the items and stories held in the Museum of Broken Relationships in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/museum-broken-relationships-houses-heartache.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carbon dioxide is a waste product of gasoline- and coal-burning engines, and it's a serious pollutant. But what if we could capture that carbon and recycle it into usable fuel? Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/energy/carbon-capture-to-fuel-is-almost-here.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Blisters can be unsightly and painful -- luckily, it's usually OK to pop them. Learn when and how to do so safely in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/problems/treating/pop-blisters.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hundreds of similar-shaped ponds called the Carolina Bays pock the Eastern United States. Learn more about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geophysics/carolina-bays.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doctors prescribed alcohol for centuries before modern medicine taught us its dangers, but this practice was really profitible during Prohibition. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-events/ridiculous-history-when-doctors-prescribed-alcohol-during-prohibition.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The amphibious anaconda is arguably the biggest snake in the world. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/snakes/anaconda.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Originally constructed as a family's weekend home, Fallingwater is now considered architect Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece. Learn about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/architecture/fallingwater.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fashion designers and their work are everywhere these days, from our closets to the runways. But one man started it all: Charles Frederick Worth. Learn who he was and how he created haute couture in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/who-started-haute-couture.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It takes a lot more resources to grow an animal for food than it does to grow plants. Learn how much more -- and what that means for the conscientious omnivore -- in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/facts/meat-eaters-consume-more-plants-vegetarians.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We often use the terms 'dusk' and 'twilight' interchangeably, but they have distinct astronomical meanings. Learn the real definitions of twilight, dusk, and dawn in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/atmospheric/twilight-dusk.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For such a small organ, the pancreas has a big job -- and it's a difficult to detect the cancers that develop there. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/facts/pancreas-cancer.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Researchers are using CRISPR technology to make everything from coffee that grows decaffeinated to bulls without hazardous horns. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/genetic/crispr-innovations-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some studies warn against using those air-blasting hand dryers in public bathrooms, but the results are complicated. Learn more (including why a good wash is most important) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/infectious/jet-hand-dryers-blast-viruses-germs.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Snow usually appears white, but it can come in a few other colors -- and in the case of red snow, that vibrant color may be a warning from Mother Nature. Learn why in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/atmospheric/amazing-and-alarming-science-behind-red-snow.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planets are small and difficult to spot out in the vast reaches of space, but researchers think they've identified one in another galaxy for the first time. Learn more about M51-ULS-1b in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/first-planet-outside-milky-way-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From snack-sized carrots to miniature artichokes, we love li'l veggies -- and have a number of ways to produce them. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/where-do-baby-veggies-come-from.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deep in the Mojave Desert, a set of large metal cones are permanently embedded in the rocky terrain. Learn what we do (and don't) know about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://adventure.howstuffworks.com/mojave-desert-megaphone.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Enthusiasts and automakers alike add solar panels to help power vehicles. Learn the history and potential future in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/fuel-efficiency/vehicles/solar-cars.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Any fashion concerns aside, going sockless in closed shoes can be hazardous to the health of your feet. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/hygiene-tips/sockless-bad-for-feet.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robotic animals can help law enforcement agents catch poachers in the act -- but only if the robots are convincing enough. Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/robotic-animals-are-helping-catch-poachers.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Waterbeds were a mainstay of opulent '80s culture, but why did they fall out of fashion? How have they evolved since then? Could they climb back from the pits of public disfavor? Explore in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-decor/bedroom/could-waterbeds-ever-make-comeback.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mink are amazing animals -- but in our culture, they're often better known as a fur product than a creature. Learn how humans have made a mess of mink in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/mink.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In some situations, having a backup plan is common sense -- but research shows that in other cases it can keep you from achieving your primary goal. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/human-nature/behavior/got-a-backup-plan-think-ditching-it.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biopesticides made from fungi may be the key to safe, effective pest control in the future. Learn how they work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/fungus-based-pesticides-might-be-green-solution-future.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A well-prepared safety team should be able to prevent Injuries and deaths due to crowding at entertainment venues. Learn how in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/astroworld-crowd-control-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fearsome-looking female anglerfish lure in prey with glowing light in the inky black depths of the ocean and are literally bonded to their mates. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/fish/anglerfish.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beaches are eroding faster than we've ever seen. Some efforts to save them involve adding more sand from offshore -- but can that really work? Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-tech/remediation/adding-sand-not-enough-to-save-beaches.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling hungry doesn't just happen when our bodies need calories, and there's no one way that we feel hunger to begin with. Learn why in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/why-feel-hungry-even-when-not.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Death cap mushrooms have been popping up around the U.S. -- often accompanied by spates of mushroom poisoning. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/biology-fields/poisonous-death-cap-mushroom.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yes, a human singer really could sing high and loud enough to break glass. Learn about acoustics, resonance, and intensity in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/shatter-glass-with-high-note.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thorium itself isn't a nuclear fuel, but in combination with other materials, it might power the nuclear reactors of the future. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/thorium.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spoiler alert: No one knows for sure! Learn a bit about how flamingos work, plus science's best hypotheses for why they often balance on one leg, in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/flamingos-stand-on-one-leg.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In North America and parts of Europe, food and drinks like bacon, eggs, cereal, coffee, and orange juice https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/breakfast-foods.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sea spiders have way more leg than body, and scientists have never been able to pinpoint how they breathe -- until now. Learn what they found in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/sea-spiders-breathe-through-pores-in-their-legs.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S.'s most honored national cemetery is vast, but it only has so much space -- and it's running out. Learn some of the proposed solutions in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/national-traditions/arlington-national-cemetery-is-running-out-space.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This small structure of the brain plays a huge role in coordinating our movements, speech, and maybe even emotion. Learn about the cerebellum in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/nervous-system/cerebellum.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When NASA returned to crewed missions following the Challenger disaster, one family decided to send a simple thank-you: flowers. Learn how this gesture became a 30-year tradition in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/shelton-family-flowers-to-nasa.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Residents of the American South may have noticed a new spider on the, er, web -- the beautiful, fascinating Joro spider. Learn about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/arachnids/joro-spider.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Measuring something as ubiquitous as starlight is no small task, but a group of researchers think they've found an answer. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/much-starlight-has-been-emitted-since-beginning-time.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pumpkins as we know them only evolved after North American megafauna like woolly mammoths and mastodons died off. Learn the connection in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/extinct-animals/megafauna-died-for-pumpkin-spice-latte.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Composers use musical references to help create mood -- and as a wink at other music lovers. Learn how 'Dies Irae', or 'The Day of Wrath', is often used in film soundtracks in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/why-soundtracks-love-day-wrath.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After anthropologists discovered a child's mummified hand, they discovered that a copper coin might be responsible for the preservation. Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/archaeology/anthropologists-discover-mummified-green-baby-hand.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Battle of Gettysburg was the Civil War's bloodiest, and ghosts have been reported in one area in particular: Devil's Den. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-civil-war/devils-den.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Jersey Devil is an all-American cryptid -- born partially of a publishing rivalry in the 1700s involving Ben Franklin. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/strange-creatures/jersey-devil.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People were executed as witches in Salem in the 1690s, but no one was burned at the stake. Learn what really happened in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/history-vs-myth/witches-burned-at-stake-in-salem.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bats are a part of spooky Halloween imagery, but fruit bats are a wide category of helpful (and even cute!) pollinators and seed dispersers. Learn how they work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/fruit-bats.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The law requires a homeowner to disclose anything that might affect the property's value to a potential buyer -- and in some cases, yes, that can include purported ghosts. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://home.howstuffworks.com/real-estate/selling-home/haunted-house-for-sale.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It seems that dogs make more expressive faces when humans are watching. Are they trying to communicate? Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/pets/dogs-make-more-expressive-faces-when-we-watch.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finding something to wear can be especially challenging for people with limited dexterity or mobility, but some fashion designers are starting to change that. Learn how in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://lifestyle.howstuffworks.com/style/fashion/body-type/clothing-industrys-narrow-focus-sidelines-people-disabilities.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Stegosaurus was a huge herbivore in a time of giants -- and it had some impressive defenses. Learn more about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/dinosaurs/stegosaurus.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just witnessing an act of rudeness can make us more likely to be rude ourselves. Learn why -- and what you can do about it -- in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/why-rudeness-contagious.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Researchers working with MRI have found that human brains produce recognizable 'fingerprints' in just a couple of minutes. Learn about connectomes in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/human-brain/brains-fingerprints-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The gunfight in Tombstone in 1881 between some tough-nosed lawmen and hard-headed outlaws went down in history -- thanks to Hollywood. Learn the story behind it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-history/gunfight-ok-corral.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The tiny, strikingly beautiful blue-ringed octopus is also the ocean's deadliest. Learn how they work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/blue-ringed-octopus.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doctors used to think Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong condition, but research shows that it can be reversed -- and that with work to maintain weight loss, former patients can live without medication. Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/turns-out-type-2-diabetes-is-reversible-after-all.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Once a cup of coffee goes cold, it'll never taste the same -- but why? Learn the science behind the weird flavors of microwaved coffee in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-science/why-microwaved-coffee-tastes-bad.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The windows in our homes and cars tend to be rectangular(ish) -- so why are airplane windows always round? Learn the science in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/flight/modern/airplane-windows-round.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sea otter populations, once endangered because of their super-cozy fur -- are doing a lot better these days. Learn how in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/sea-otter.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spoiler alert: No one's really sure, but researchers are working on it. Learn what long-term COVID symptoms can look like and what's being done about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/infectious/long-covid-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our rockets use combustion for power. Some planets have atmospheres made of flammable stuff like hydrogen and methane. Learn why we probably wouldn't cause a planetary fire in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/rockets-accidentally-ignite-alien-world-atmosphere.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nigersaurus was a dinosaur with over 500 teeth that's been described as a Mesozoic cow with a face like a vacuum cleaner. Learn more about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/dinosaurs/nigersaurus.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The idea that life on Earth was seeded from outer space is called Panspermia, and some researchers are looking into how (and when) it could've happened. Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/evolution/did-alien-seeds-cause-explosion-life-earth.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We build memories through our experiences. But what if we could transfer memories to other people? It's happening -- in snails. Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/eternal-sunshine-snail-mind.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The initial results of the 2020 United States census are in. Learn a bit about how America has changed in the past decade in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/2020-census-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Starfish, more properly called sea stars, have some amazing (and amazingly weird) abilities. Learn about them in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/starfish.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many foods have natural or artificial flavorings added -- but what does 'bubblegum' represent? Learn about scent, taste, and the flavor industry in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/does-bubblegum-flavor-represent-something-the-natural-world.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some mental health professionals have integrated interaction with horses into practice. Learn how equine therapy works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/coping/horse-therapy.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rules vary from state to state, but there are specific guidelines for what services can and can't get a mention on U.S. highway signs. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/tech-transport/who-featured-blue-highway-exit-signs.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good news, fellow weekend sleep-in-ers: recent research shows that 'catching up' on sleep on your off days can help you stay healthy. Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/sleep/basics/yes-you-can-catch-up-on-sleep.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who was Rube Goldberg, and how did he come up with his famously weird contraptions? Learn the history behind this American cartoonist in today's classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/famous-inventors/who-was-rube-goldberg-and-what-are-his-contraptions.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the Sun passes between Earth and Mars, NASA pauses communications to its equipment on the Red Planet. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/mars-solar-conjunction-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In many areas of the United States, hospitals overwhelmed by COVID-19 patients are enacting ambulance diversion. Learn what this means in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/medicine/hospital-diversion-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bats take off and land from an upside-down position -- and researchers have figured out how (and why) they accomplish this. Learn more in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/how-bats-land-upside-down.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's generally a bad idea to share prescription medications, but sharing antibiotics is particularly hazardous. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/medicine/medication/sharing-leftover-antibiotics-is-really-bad-practice.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first attempt at a transatlantic flight didn't go as planned -- perhaps especially for its feline crew member. Learn the story of Kiddo the cat in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/kiddo-the-cat.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A man with a rare antibody in his blood spent 63 years donating, and has touched millions of lives. Learn how in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/circulatory/man-whose-blood-saved-more-than-2-million-babies.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hot chili peppers can make you feel like your mouth is on fire, but are they actually doing any damage? Learn about the science of spice in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-science/can-spicy-food-burn-out-taste-buds.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Supreme Court's decisions in Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey set precedents for abortion law in the U.S., but they're being challenged. Learn how in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/roe-v-wade-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gila monsters are venomous, but they don't strike like a snake -- they chew. Learn more about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/gila-monster.htm?utm_source=taboola&utm_medium=feed Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To design the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., the fledgling American government held an open competition -- and an amateur won. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/revolutionary-war/us-capitol-design-competition.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CRISPR is a gene editing technology based on how bacteria protect themselves from viruses. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/genetic/crispr-gene-editing.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2021, wildfires in Siberia dwarfed all other wildfires in the world combined. Learn why, and what experts say could be done to help, in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/natural-disasters/siberia-2021-wildfires-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After celebrities wear a gown to a glitzy award show or festival, it's often archived, but sometimes sold, reproduced, or even stolen. Learn the life story of red carpet fashion in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://lifestyle.howstuffworks.com/style/fashion/celebrity/red-carpet-dresses-celebrities-wear-them.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It seems obvious that turtles' shells would have evolved to protect them from predators, but researchers have found that they probably first evolved to help turtles dig. Learn what that's all about in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/reptiles/real-reason-turtles-have-shells-hint-its-not-protection.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although she's one of the most famous figures in European art, a lot is still mysterious about the Venus de Milo. Learn what we do and don't know about her in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/arts/artwork/venus-de-milo.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The diamond industry pulls stones from the ocean floor in addition to their mining operations. Learn how diamonds form and travel in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geology/ocean-diamonds.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These brightly colored birds use their big beaks to communicate with each other and keep cool in hot weather. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/toucan.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These days, it's increasingly rare to find new cars outfitted with manual transmissions -- even in markets that have traditionally preferred them. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/stick-shift-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suicide is a pressing but preventable problem in the United States. Learn what experts are doing to help -- and how you can help too -- in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/mental-disorders/us-needs-to-have-ongoing-conversation-about-suicide.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We humans produce a LOT of plastics that wind up as harmful waste, but researchers have isolated an enzyme that may help reduce the problem. Learn how in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/plastic-eating-enzyme-planets-new-hope.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The possibilities for a baby's name aren't quite as endless as they seem -- some national and local governments restrict what you can legally name your baby. Learn what some of those restrictions are (and why they exist) in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/pregnancy-and-parenting/you-cant-name-your-baby-that.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If Godzilla were real, what kind of animal would it be -- and could it even survive with such an impressive body mass? Learn what researchers think in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/godzilla.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The stratosphere is where planes fly, bacteria thrive, and our protective ozone layer forms. Learn more about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geophysics/stratosphere.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The current infrastructure bill would allot a chunk of funds to electrifying America's fleet of public school buses. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://auto.howstuffworks.com/fuel-efficiency/vehicles/electric-school-bus-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Because windows look like open air to birds, collisions are unfortunately common. Learn why -- and how you can help prevent them -- in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/why-birbs-fly-into-windows.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most influenza vaccines contain a tiny bit of egg protein because of the way they're manufactured, but experts still recommend getting vaccinated. Learn why, and how people with allergies can keep themselves safe, in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/allergies/food-allergy/dairy-eggs-meat/people-with-egg-allergies-flu-shot.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You've probably seen ocean tides making the seas rise and fall, but solid land has tides, too. Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geology/rising-rock-earths-crust-has-its-own-tides.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While it may not be our first choice in cooking methods, yes, you can microwave a steak to a perfect medium-rare. Learn how, plus how microwaves work, in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/tools-and-techniques/can-microwave-steak-to-perfect-medium-rare.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

American red squirrels are smaller than their local grey counterparts, but they pack a lot of attitude. Learn about these cute but aggressive animals in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/red-squirrel.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mini Transat sailors race small yachts alone across the Atlantic -- surviving three to four weeks sleeping only 20 minutes at a time. Learn what sleep researchers learned about this feat in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/sleep/disorders/sleep-when-sailing-solo-4000-miles.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steganography involves not just encrypting messages, but hiding the fact that there's a message being sent at all. Learn how it works in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://electronics.howstuffworks.com/future-tech/steganography.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

France's beautiful Fosse Dionne spring has been keeping its secrets close for centuries -- no one has ever found its source. Learn the myths and history surrounding it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geophysics/fosse-dionne-spring.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Antarctica belongs to no one nation -- so who has jurisdiction when someone dies under mysterious or criminal circumstances? Learn why it's messy in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/whos-charge-investigating-deaths-antarctica.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It might sound gross, but it's eco-friendly: Paper is made from plant pulp. Animals that eat plants excrete plant pulp. Learn why some researchers have high hopes for poo-pyrus in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/poo-pyrus-eco-friendly-paper-made-from-poop.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a genetic condition called chimerism, DNA from someone else (an unborn twin, an organ donor, or even your own baby) is at work in your body. Learn how it works in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/genetic/chimerism-be-own-twin.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Preservation techniques like curing and smoking create tasty, longer-lasting dishes like lox, gravlax, and nova. Learn the difference between these salmon preparations in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/tools-and-techniques/lox-gravlax-nova-whats-difference.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Businesses say noncompete agreements protect their interests -- but when they apply to everyone from VPs to janitors, are they overkill? Learn how noncompetes work in this episode of BrainStuff: https://money.howstuffworks.com/noncompete-agreements-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're all too familiar with hurricanes here on Earth, but scientists have discovered storms with similar patterns right near the edge of space. Learn about space hurricanes in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/atmospheric/space-hurricane.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Originally, the only Americans granted the right to vote were white male landowners. Learn how white women gained suffrage in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/american-history/19th-amendment.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will coffee really stunt your growth? Or give you heart problems? What about your teeth? Learn the truth behind common myths about that cuppa joe in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/edible-innovations/coffee-stunt-growth.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A snail's shell is its permanent home -- but how do these wee, soft, slimy creatures grow hard, beautiful shells? Learn how it works in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/do-snails-get-shells.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whole swaths of the world's population use chopsticks for their daily meals. Learn where they originated and how they evolved in this episode of BrainStuff: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/chopsticks.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breakthrough infections happen when, like with the flu or COVID-19, a vaccinated person still gets infected. Learn why this is normal -- and why breakthrough infections are much less deadly -- in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/diseases-conditions/infectious/breakthrough-infections-COVID-19-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are trees all over the U.S. (and the world) grown from seeds that orbited the Moon. Learn about NASA's moon trees in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nasa-moon-trees.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonnie and Clyde, the infamous power couple of Depression-era crime, had their luck run out eventually. Learn how it happened in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/bonnie-and-clyde.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Green iguanas can really thrive in ecosystems where they don't belong -- and that can be a real problem. Learn more about these large reptiles in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/iguana.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's not a joke: Scientists have confirmed that Uranus stinks. Learn how they found out -- and why it's actually really cool -- in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/scientists-confirm-uranus-stinks.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans love popping zits so much precisely because it's gross. Learn about all the reasons why we find pimples so fascinating in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/problems/treating/why-do-love-to-pop-zits.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some startling fossils are being found in the world's rivers, but it takes dangerous diving teams to extract them. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/geology/underwater-fossil-hunting.htm?utm_source=taboola&utm_medium=feed Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The term 'blue moon' was figurative a long time before astronomers assigned various definitions. Learn why blue moons aren't blue and what they can mean in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/is-blue-moon-really-blue.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you break a bone, it's best to go to a doctor -- though your body begins the healing process before you even get there. Learn how broken bones heal (with medical help) in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/musculoskeletal/heal-broken-bones.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Atlantic Ocean's 2021 hurricane season started strong and is expected to end the same way. Learn how the predictions are made and what they're saying in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/nature/climate-weather/storms/2021-atlantic-hurricane-season-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Apollo space mission brought the first humans to the Moon -- but two tortoises from Russia were the first vertebrates to orbit Earth's satellite. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/space-tortoises.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Days before his death, theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking finished what would be his final research paper. Learn about his last take on the multiverse in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/dictionary/famous-scientists/physicists/stephen-hawkings-last-paper-takes-on-multiverse.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some toothaches are caused by an abscess -- an infection that can spread beyond the mouth. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/oral-care/problems/absecessed-tooth.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Racketeering is a type of crime that can be difficult to prosecute because the people at the top don't get their hands dirty. Learn how rackets and RICO work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/racketeering.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Animals need oxygen in order to live -- or so we thought. Learn about a tiny parasite that evolved to do without it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/animal-doesnt-need-oxygen.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've tried to rent a vacation spot through services like Airbnb in the past year, you may have felt blindsided by the final fee tally. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://money.howstuffworks.com/airbnb-vrbo-prices-skyrocketed-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Box jellyfish may look ethereal (or a little goofy), but they're some of the most dangerous animals in the world. Learn more about them in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/marine-life/box-jellyfish.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over-simplifications about how our brains work abound. Learn what these myths are, and why it's important to fight them, in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/everyday-myths/even-educators-believe-common-myths-about-learning-study-shows.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Birds everywhere add insect-repelling plants to their nests, but urban birds have to get a little creative. Learn how cigarette butts help city birds stay healthy in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/urban-birds-oust-bugs-with-butts.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Both throughout American history and today, governments and other groups have made it more difficult for particular people to vote. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://people.howstuffworks.com/10-ways-us-has-kept-citizens-from-voting.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sleep can be elusive here on Earth, so how do astronauts manage it in space? Learn what it takes in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/sleep-in-space.htm/printable Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wallace's giant bee is rarely sighted, but is five times the size of the honeybees we're familiar with. Learn more about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/insects/wallaces-giant-bee-worlds-largest-rediscovered.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ransomeware attacks have been targeting larger organizations with more to lose if they don't pay up. Learn how these attacks work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://computer.howstuffworks.com/ransomware-attacks-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unlike many other nuts, pistachios are often sold roasted and seasoned in their shells. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/why-pistachios-are-sold-in-their-shells.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spoiler alert: Yep! Well, sometimes. Learn how one African ant species nurses its wounded soldiers, yielding a surprising survival rate, in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/insects/ants-rescue-treat-wounded-comrades.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chinese 5-spice powder can contain a lot of things (including more than five spices), but it's all rooted in ancient medicine and philosophy. Learn more in this classic episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/food-facts/chinese-five-spice-powder-tasty-and-not-necessarily-five-spices.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's rare that all of a plane's engines fail, but when they do, a pilot can still glide the aircraft to a safe landing. Learn more in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/transport/flight/modern/how-far-can-plane-go-no-engines.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These nocturnal feathered predators have been capturing our imaginations for millennia. Learn about how owls work in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/owls.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A shortage of microchips is driving up the cost of everything from consumer electronics to used cars. Learn why in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://electronics.howstuffworks.com/semiconductor-shortage-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After much debate, the world officially has a fifth ocean: the Southern Ocean, surrounding Antarctica. Learn about it in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/earth/oceanography/southern-ocean-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Infrastructure -- all the pipes, roads, rails, and everything else that makes civilization work -- must be maintained and replaced as it ages. Learn how the U.S. ranks in this episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/civil/americas-infrastructure-news.htm Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.