Something You Should Know

Why are the numbers 1, 2, and 3 across the top of a phone keypad but across the bottom of a calculator? It’s not random — and once you hear the logic, you’ll never look at a keypad the same way again. That’s just one of three quirky mysteries I explain at the start of this episode, along with surprising insights about portholes and time. Source: Ivan Semeniuk, co-author of Why Don’t Penguins’ Feet Freeze? (https://amzn.to/3sf8muM)

Achievement can be wonderful — until it starts defining your worth. When you believe you matter only because of what you ac...

Hooters has no male waiters. Isn’t that discrimination? Or could it be that men just don’t want to work there? The answer is no to both questions. Listen as I explain the answer and why it is perfectly legal. https://www.businessinsider.com/how-can-hooters-hire-only-women-2015-9

How do some people manage to get tables at “fully booked” restaurants, snag concert tickets that sell out in minutes, or get their child into the right school? It’s not always luck — it’s knowing how to access hidden markets. My guest, Judd Kessler, professor of business economics and public policy...

People who live the longest aren’t always the ones with the “perfect” body weight. In fact, research suggests that being slightly overweight can actually increase your life expectancy. It sounds counterintuitive, but the science may surprise you. Listen as I explain what’s really going on. https://healthland.time.com/2013/01/02/being-overweight-is-linked-to-lower-risk-of-mortality/

Ever since the dawn of the Internet, we’ve been told to guard against hackers — but today’s biggest threat isn’t hacking, it’s scamming. Cybercriminals are more cunning than ever, tricking millions into giving up money and information every day. If you think you are too clever...

Your grandmother was right — you should sit up straight. Posture affects far more than your appearance. It influences your mood, productivity, and even how well you think. I begin this episode with surprising research showing how simply improving your posture can boost everything from confidence to cognitive performance. https://www.deseret.com/2023/10/24/23930242/dont-slouch-minding-your-posture-good-mental-health-productivity

We often hear that creativity is the key to success — but is it really? Cultural historian Samuel Franklin says the cult of creativity might be one of the most overrated ideas in modern life. He’s the author of The Cult of Creativity: A Surpri...

When you ask someone to recall something from deep in their memory, watch their face — they’ll probably do something that actually helps them remember. You might do it too without realizing it. Listen as I reveal what it is and why it works. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ulterior-motives/201110/why-do-you-close-your-eyes-remember

Have you heard of the winner’s curse or the sunk cost theory? These are strange but predictable ways our brains can trick us when we take risks — especially with money. My guest, Alex O. Imas, Professor of Behavioral Science, Economics, and Applied AI at the Univ...

When you want to reach out to someone — to ask them on a date, invite them to an event, or simply connect — what’s the best way to do it? Text? Email? A phone call? Research shows one option is far more effective, and it’s not what most people assume. Listen as I reveal what science says is the best way to reach out. https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/should_you_call_or_text_science_weighs_in?utm

Why do people slow down to gawk at car crashes, binge true crime podcasts, or line up for horr...

As people age, forgetfulness often creeps in — but not all memory loss is inevitable. In fact, some of the most common causes are preventable, and with the right strategies, memory can be protected and even improved. I’ll explain what really drives age-related forgetfulness and what you can do about it. Source: William Cone, PhD, author of Stop Memory Loss (https://amzn.to/3PNKIOX).

Negative emotions hit us all — anger, fear, frustration, stress — but how you handle those feelings determines your “emotional power.” Leading neuropsychologist Julia DiGangi reveals the science behind emotional triggers and how your brain shapes your...

What really happens when two people kiss? Far more than you think. From the brain chemistry it triggers, to the subtle information you’re exchanging, to the dozens of muscles involved — kissing is a complex act with fascinating effects on both body and mind. https://www.thehealthy.com/family/relationships/6-ways-kissing-makes-you-stronger/#ixzz3kK7pLATk

“Be authentic.” You’ve heard that advice countless times — but what does it actually mean? Do you really have one “authentic self”? And if so, why are the less admirable parts of that self rarely included in the conversation? My guest Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic — Chief Innovation O...

We are sharing an episode of On Point with Meghna Chakrabarti. On Point is a rare public space where you hear nuanced explorations of complex topics live and in real time. Meghna leads provocative conversations that help make sense of the world, with urgency, timeliness and depth. In this episode Meghna asks: Could sunlight help treat disease? She details a growing number of studies that find potential benefits of UV light therapy for conditions like multiple sclerosis, Type 1 diabetes and Crohn’s disease.

You can find more episodes of On Point at https://link.mgln.ai/shouldknow

Ever notice how weekdays feel different from one another? Mondays carry a heavy vibe, while Fridays seem lighter and more exciting. Science has a fascinating explanation for why certain days have a stronger “feel” than others, and we kick off this episode with the surprising psychology behind it. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3209175/

Gravity is more than just the force that keeps us grounded — it’s quietly affecting your health every single day. From back pain to heart disease, gravity plays a role in nearly every chronic condition. But here’s the good news: there are ways t...

Ever wondered if there’s really a difference between hitting Restart and Shutdown on your PC? Turns out, there is — and knowing which one to use could save you a lot of frustration the next time your computer is acting up. I’ll explain why one option is far better when it comes to fixing problems. https://computer.howstuffworks.com/restarting-shutting-down-computer.htm

We all say we want to do important things — but then somehow they never get done. Why do we procrastinate on the stuff that matters most, and how does that affect our lives? Rob Dial, host of...

Expiration dates aren’t always what they seem. While most packaged foods carry them, some foods — like salt — can last virtually forever. In fact, there’s a surprising list of everyday staples that can outlive the labels and stay good for years. Listen as I reveal which foods never really expire. https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/long-term-food-storage-staples-that-last-forever/

AI tools like ChatGPT are everywhere, but to use them well, you need more than just clear questions. The way you prompt, the way you think about the model, and even the way it was trained all play a r...

How you walk doesn’t just reflect your mood — it can actually shape it. Research shows that adjusting your stride can boost happiness, and even a short walk outside could be the smartest thing you do today. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/10/141015143259.htm

When it comes to spending money, one-size-fits-all advice doesn’t work. Should you spend on experiences? Travel? Things? The truth is, the way money makes you happy depends on you. Joining me to explore this is Morgan Housel, partner at The Collaborative Fund, award-winning journalist, and author of The Art of Spending Money: Simple Choice...

If you’re stocking up on Halloween candy, do you know which treats kids actually want the most? This episode opens with a list of the top 10 most popular Halloween candies — and it may not be what you expect. https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/2023/10/03/blow-pops-win-title-ohio-favorite-halloween-candy/71041875007/

Some animals live unimaginably long lives — an oyster that’s over 500 years old, creatures that seem to never age at all. What if unlocking their secrets could help us extend human lifespans? Research into nature’s most resilient species is already pointing the way. Joining me is Steven Austad, Distinguished Professor of Biology...

What really happens when you stand or sit up straight? More than you think. Posture affects your body and your mind in surprising ways. This episode begins with the science-backed benefits of tuning in to your posture. Source: https://www.medicaldaily.com/pulse/why-you-should-stand-straight-benefits-good-posture-345598

What’s most likely to kill you—and what can you actually do about it? That’s the urgent and practical question we explore with Dr. Tom Frieden, former Director of the CDC under President Obama and now CEO of Resolve to Save Lives. Dr. Frieden shares the latest science on the biggest threat...

Vacations are supposed to be relaxing, but did you know there are proven ways to make them even better? Research shows that with a few simple strategies, you can maximize the happiness and memories you take away from your trip. This episode begins with science-backed tips to optimize your next getaway. https://www.vox.com/2015/7/22/9013783/vacation-science

Mental health terms like “depressed,” “ADD,” and “narcissist” used to be reserved for professionals — yet now they’re casually tossed around in everyday conversations. But should they be? And what happens when clinical diagnoses turn into buzzwords? Psychotherapist Joe Nucci joins me to unpack thi...

If you walked into your backyard and scooped up just a pinch of dirt, you’d be holding an entire underground universe in your fingers — one teeming with life and mysteries you’ve probably never imagined. I’ll reveal what’s really hidden in that soil. Source: David W. Wolfe, author of Tales From The Underground https://amzn.to/3tvUBIk

Speaking in front of people — whether it’s a handful of colleagues or a packed room — can feel nerve-wracking. But with a few simple techniques, you can transform that anxiety into confidence and make your message land with impact. Com...

Why do people cheat when they know it’s wrong? Whether it’s on a test or in a relationship, the answer may lie in your hormones. This episode begins with surprising research that reveals the powerful role biology plays in dishonest behavior.(https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3178947/What-makes-cheat-HORMONES-People-high-levels-certain-chemicals-likely-behave-badly.html)

Distractions have become a way of life — endless scrolling, constant notifications, and interruptions that destroy our ability to concentrate. Yet the ability to focus is one of the most valuable skills you can have. My guest, Dr. Zelana Montminy, behavioral scientist and author of Finding Focus...

If I showed you some photos of yourself and asked you to pick out the one that most accurately represented what you really looked like – could you do it? Listen as I begin this episode by explaining why you most likely could not. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/06/150623200016.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Common knowledge is something that I know that you know, and you know that I know you know it! And so usually, we never discuss it. Sounds confusing but without common knowledge life would be amazingly difficult and tedious as you are about to di...

We’ve all heard the test-taking advice: “If you’re stuck, trust your first answer.” But is that really the smart move? Research says no — and I begin this episode by explaining why going with your gut on exams might actually hurt your score. Source: Joseph T. Hallinan, author of Why We Make Mistakes (https://amzn.to/44PV4SQ).

Feeling awkward or embarrassed is awful in the moment — but maybe it’s not nearly as bad as you think. In fact, those cringeworthy moments might even be a secret weapon. Henna Pryor has studied the psychology of embarrassment...

Who hasn’t craved something sweet and delicious? You try to resist, but your brain keeps insisting. Surprisingly, there’s a simple trick that can make that craving disappear almost instantly. Listen as I reveal the science-backed way to quiet your sweet tooth. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sweet-tooth-disgusting-food_n_55afe669e4b0a9b9485360de

Disruption is the force that reshapes the world — from the printing press and gunpowder to smartphones, AI, and driverless cars. Innovation has always been both thrilling and unsettling, and today it’s accelerating faster than ever. To help us understand how past dis...

It might sound strange, but the way you evaluate your relationship could actually depend on the chair you’re sitting in. Multiple experiments suggest that posture and stance can influence how you judge your marriage or partnership. In the opening segment, I explain this fascinating connection. https://archive.nytimes.com/well.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/07/08/how-your-stance-may-test-your-marriage

We all talk about intuition — that gut feeling when you know what to do without being able to explain why. But is intuition a real thing, or just a name we give to quick decision-making? And if it is real, can you actu...

Speed reading might sound impressive, but research shows that slowing down can actually improve comprehension, retention, and enjoyment. In this opening segment, we explore why reading at a slower pace could be the real key to getting the most out of your books and articles. https://www.bustle.com/p/7-reasons-slow-reading-is-actually-a-good-thing-because-being-a-speed-reader-is-overrated-73092

On average, people juggle about 22 goals at any given time — but chasing all of them often leads to frustration and burnout. My guest, Jon Acuff, bestselling speaker and author of nine books, including All It Takes is a Goal (https://amzn.to/3PtSiOF), shares a fresh, mo...

You probably aren’t letting your dishwasher do its job the way it’s designed to — and you may be wasting time (and water) in the process. In this opening segment, we reveal why your dishwasher is smarter than you think, how to make it work harder for you, and the one thing it desperately wants you to stop doing. https://www.womansday.com/home/organizing-cleaning/a51170/stop-prerinsing-dishes/

Social status isn’t just for the shallow or phony — it’s something we all crave in one way or another. Whether at work, in friendships, or within communities, status offer...

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Why do kids really get the summer off from school? The popular myth is that it was to help out on the family farm—but that’s not true at all. The real reason is much simpler (and more obvious). This episode begins with the surprising explanation.Source: https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/56901/why-do-students-get-summers

Stress often gets a bad reputation. We’re told it’s harmful and that the goal should be to reduce o...

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Walking is great exercise. However, the speed you walk at can make a big difference. The right pace can offer health benefits and can have a surprising impact on how long you live. Source: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/people-who-walk-faster-tend-to-live-longer

How do top performers get to be the best at what they do? Many people assume it’s all about experience or endless practice, but there’s a more effective approach. Eduardo Briceño joins me to...

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When you stay at a short-term rental property such as Airbnb, you often notice security cameras. After all, it is someone’s home. But what about cameras inside the home? This episode begins with surprising data about just how common hidden surveillance is—and what every guest should know. Source: https://www.ipx1031.com/surveillance-rental-study/

For as long as humans have been around, we’ve had to do something with our hair. We’ve cut it, colore...

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Why do humans blush—and why does it feel so uncomfortable when someone points it out? Charles Darwin once called blushing “the most peculiar and most human of all expressions.” In this episode, I start by exploring the surprising science of blushing and what it really communicates about us. Source: https://www.rd.com/article/why-do-people-blush/

Credit cards are so embedded in modern life that it’s hard to imagine shopping wit...

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How often do you think the average American checks their phone each day? Whatever your guess, you’ll probably be shocked by the actual number. This episode kicks off with some eye-opening stats about our cell phone obsession and just how much it’s shaping our daily lives. https://www.reviews.org/mobile/cell-phone-addiction/

When it comes to decisions, many of us waste valuable energy stressing over choices that don’t even mat...

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Chances are, your home is full of things you don’t use, don’t need, and maybe don’t even recognize. Listen to the start of this episode and you’ll discover a simple list of household items you can toss out today — without a second thought. Clearing them out will free up space and make room for what truly matters. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/things-in-your-home-to-get-rid-of_n_4748455

Even the brightest mind...

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Your phone’s battery is an engineering marvel — but you might be killing it without even realizing it. In this opening segment, you’ll learn simple, science-backed charging habits that can dramatically extend your battery’s life and keep it holding a charge for years to come. https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/gadgets/a15731/best-way-to-keep-li-ion-batteries-charged/

Have you heard of “primal intelligence”? It’s essentially the opposite of artificial intelligence — the inn...

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No one likes making a fool of themselves — but it turns out, it might be one of the best things you can do for your happiness. In this opening segment, we explore how moments of public embarrassment can lead to surprising psychological benefits. It may feel awful in the moment, but research says it could actually improve your well-being in the long run. https://exploringyourmind.com/making-fool-yourself-makes-you-happier/⁠

Everyone lies… but at...

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“Happy Birthday to You” might seem like a simple song, but its history is anything but. It has generated millions of dollars in royalties and been at the center of a wild legal saga. In this opening segment, you'll hear the fascinating backstory of one of the world’s most famous tunes — and learn about its current legal status. https://www.wipo.int/web/wipo-magazine/articles/in-the-courts-court-confirms-legal-status-of-happy-birthday-to-you-55581

Is happiness just a...

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Try formulating an answer to a difficult question while looking someone in the eye. It is almost impossible. You must look away. Why is it so hard to concentrate while looking at someone? This episode starts with an explanation of that. http://www.livescience.com/7155-helps-concentration.html

To be labeled as a great innovator is an honor. Innovators are held in high esteem. But what is it that makes th...

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Everyone knows exercise is good for you. But have you ever thought HOW it is good for you? This episode begins by explaining exactly what the benefits are both mentally and physically. And the benefits are substantial. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389

Ever find yourself caught in a loop of “what ifs”? You imagine things going wrong — even when there’s no real reason to worry. That c...

What if starting your meal with a mediocre appetizer could actually make the main course taste better? In this surprising opening segment, we dive into the psychology of taste and explore clever, science-backed tricks to make your food taste better — using your brain, not just your palate. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3139067/

We’re all being influenced by algorithms every day — from what we watch and buy to what we believe. But what exactly is an algorithm, how does it work, and can you fight back against its invisible influence? Math professor and author Noah Giansi...

What if you were convinced you got a good night’s sleep even if you didn’t? It turns out what you believe can actually determine if you do or don’t feel tired the next day. How can this possibly be true? This episode starts with an explanation which could be very useful one day when you didn’t sleep well. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24417326/

Many times in your life you have felt totally bored. What exactly is boredom? Is it a feeling or maybe it is a lack of a feeling? Does feeling bored ev...

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You probably have a drawer where you keep spare batteries for when you need them. But if some or all those batteries are loose and floating around that drawer, it could be dangerous. This episode begins with an explanation and a better way to store batteries. https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/612670/never-store-batteries-your-junk-drawer

Just how French are French fries? Why are frankfurters also called hot dogs and why do we hav...

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People don’t drown the way you think they do. Someone could drown right in front of you, and you might not notice. It happens all the time. This episode begins by revealing what to look for to spot a drowning person. https://www.thehealthy.com/first-aid/silent-signs-of-drowning/#ixzz3dGUMjhU8

In the United States, we have an expectation of privacy. We are entitled to a private life. But it wasn’...

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As people age, changes in the eyes require that some to get reading glasses to see things clearly close-up. What’s odd is that women seem to require reading glasses at an earlier age than men. Why? Listen as I reveal the interesting answer. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/06/120623144946.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com

We all want to get along and be liked but some people take it to t...