The Story Behind: Recent Episodes

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Thank you to everyone who came by over the past few months while I recorded the audiobook of The Story Behind. The audiobook is available on Audible and you can get that at this link: https://amzn.to/2G1Y8WF In addition, for those who saw the Live recordings in The Story Behind Discussion Group, you know I realized there were a number of errors in the printed book as I was reading through it. I am so grateful to my publishers who will be updating future printed copies with the corrections, as well as the eBook versions. While I wish the actual podcast could continue as it once was, I have not had the time to put into it what I wished I could. To those who have found the show in the meantime and those who continue to listen to the back catalog, thank you so much and I hope it can continue to be found and enjoyed. Even though the show isn't actively being produced at the moment, I am still reading your emails and messages on social media and am so grateful to all of you who have continued to support me (Emily) and The Story Behind It was around this time FOUR years ago (!) that The Story Behind began. My daughter was younger and my son wasn't born yet. I was still at my 9-5 job with a nice long commute to listen to podcasts and a guaranteed lunch break where I did a lot of research for The Story Behind during. The fact that I worked with trivia and puzzles all day was actually one of the main reasons I started the podcast — I needed an outlet for all the knowledge I picked up daily. And it worked, I realized later. When I was no longer required to read and verify bits of trivia all day for a job, my need to share all that knowledge I picked up wasn't as strong. The day I was told I was being fired from that job was the same week I had written Episode 100 — The Story Behind: The Musical. I was about to celebrate the 1-year anniversary of the podcast. That commute home, the only thing that kept me from completely losing it was practicing that song over and over again. I needed to nail it. I needed to nail that episode. My ego had taken a huge hit at work and I sunk everything I had into that episode. And it paid off. It's still my absolute favorite episode of the podcast, and I'm even more proud (is that the right word?) that I beat-boxed it for the audiobook! Link to the episode, if you've never heard it: https://thestorybehindpodcast.com/.../the-story-behind... A month later, I got an email from Mango Publishing about writing the book and I was floored. Not only that but when I knew I would be losing my job, I had already started doing some side jobs editing podcasts for others. So, while writing my first book, I was also growing my first business. By the time I was knee-deep in everything and thinking, for the first time, about stopping the podcast, I got an email from The Webby Awards with a scholarship opportunity to grant me the ability to enter for consideration. The nomination floored me, and I am eternally grateful to everyone who voted and supported me from listeners to fellow podcasters and friends and family (some of whom still don't quite know how to listen, but we're working on it). Fast-forward to now, after months of a pandemic and an intense year, to say the least. The Story Behind has been on indefinite hiatus and will continue to be for the time being. For right now, I don't actually have an active podcast. My other podcast, Hate to Weight, is on an indefinite hiatus, as well. After 113 episodes, I'm proud to report my cohost and I together have lost well over 130 pounds and are both in maintenance mode! As for me, I'm currently working more on podcasts behind the scenes as a podcast consultant and editor, as well as a speaker and course creator for other podcasters. Turns out, more and more people are finding out what I knew years ago, which is: Podcasting is awesome. It can open up opportunities you never imagined, introduce you to some of the most amazing people you'll ever meet, and perhaps for some lucky podcasters, help them find the voice they always knew was inside of them. Yeah, that might sound corny, but the only reason I was able to get on this mic and talk was because of listeners like you. My co-host on Hate to Weight has said that getting on the mic is like therapy for him, and I agree. Building an audience of any kind, whether it's on a podcast or on social media is a validation that there are other people in the world interested in what you have to say. And I want to thank you for sharing your time for my overflow of trivia and love of origin stories. As I say at the end of every episode, Thanks for listening.

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Every time I use the subject of today’s episode, my husband is quick to point out how I shouldn’t. He loves to tell me about all the injuries this common household item causes, and as much as a lot of what I do depends on my hearing, I can’t help but continue to use it now and again. And I’m sure you do too.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Cotton Swabs.

Let's get social! * The Story Behind Discussion Group: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Facebook-Group * The Story Behind Facebook Page: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Facebook-Page * The Story Behind on Instagram: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Instagram * The Story Behind on Twitter: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Twitter

Support the Show — Become an Executive Producer * $1 Patreon Executive Producers — Extra monthly episode and thank you on an upcoming episode of The Story Behind. * $5 Patreon Executive Producers — Benefits of $1 Executive Producers + Access to the MUSE series as it unfolds. * Click to Support: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Patreon

The Story Behind is also a Book! * Find it on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2FkbVU5 * Kindle Version: https://amzn.to/2CAn9Dj

Sources * About - A Q-Tips Cotton Swab History - Qtips.com * The strange life of Q-tips, the most bizarre thing people buy - The Washington Post * 1927 Q-Tips ad * 15 Swab-Worthy Facts About Q-Tips - Mental Floss * The Marketing of Q-Tips—A Brief History - Ear Audites * Cotton Swabs Send 34 Kids to the ER Every Day - Live Science * What a New Study on Cleaning Your Ears With Q-Tips Should Teach Every Entrepreneur - Inc. * ​Why It Feels So Damn Good to Stick a Q-Tip In Your Ear - Men’s Health * Just How Bad Is My Q-Tip Habit? - Vice.com * 17 Genius Uses for Q-Tips You’ll Want to Use All the Time - Reader’s Digest * 14 Ways You Never Thought to Use Q-Tips - BobVila.com

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From starting out as eye protection against snow blindness to helping pilots navigate the skies without being blinded by the sun, the subject of today’s episode not only protects your eyes but has also been a staple of fashion for centuries, as it turns out.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Sunglasses. Let's get social!

• The Story Behind Discussion Group: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Facebook-Group
• The Story Behind Facebook Page: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Facebook-Page
• The Story Behind on Instagram: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Instagram
• The Story Behind on Twitter: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Twitter

Support the Show — Become an Executive Producer * $1 Patreon Executive Producers — Extra monthly episode and thank you on an upcoming episode of The Story Behind. * $5 Patreon Executive Producers — Benefits of $1 Executive Producers + Access to the MUSE series as it unfolds. * Click to Support: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Patreon

The Story Behind is also a Book! * Find it on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2FkbVU5 * Kindle Version: https://amzn.to/2CAn9Dj

Sources * Origins and History of Sunglasses - GlassesHistory.com * Who Made Those Aviator Sunglasses? - The New York Times * A Brief History of Sunglasses - SunglassMuseum.com * The Evolution of Sunglasses - Google Arts & Culture * Foster Grant Our Story! - Foster Grant * The 15 Most Iconic Sunglasses of all Time - The Idle Man * The Fabulous History Of Sunglasses & Their Trends In 25 Pics - The Talko * Sunglasses: A History of Protective, Stylish, and Popular Eyewear - Ancient-Origins.org * The most famous sunglasses in cinema history - Vogue * A Brief History of Eclipse Glasses and the People Who Forgot to Wear Them - Slate * How long does it take before your eyes get damaged when looking at the sun? - Scienceline - UCSB * Shades at the Table: The Great Debate - Poker News * Why You (Now) Look Stupid Wearing Sunglasses at the Poker Table - Poker Junkie * 11 Things You Didn't Know About Ray-Ban - Thrillist * Solar eclipse and your eyes: How to view an eclipse safely - All About Vision

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Ever hear of Shiny Object Syndrome? Usually, it’s said to refer to those who see something new and have to have it, only to get bored with it once they finally attain it.

But in this episode, I wanted to know just what it is about literal shiny objects that make them so appealing to humans. And this particular shiny object is no different unless you have to clean up the mess it makes.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Glitter.

Vote for The Story Behind for the Webby Awards! CLICK HERE to vote!

Let's get social! * The Story Behind Discussion Group: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Facebook-Group * The Story Behind Facebook Page: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Facebook-Page * The Story Behind on Instagram: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Instagram * The Story Behind on Twitter: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Twitter

Support the Show — Become an Executive Producer * $1 Patreon Executive Producers — Extra monthly episode and thank you on an upcoming episode of The Story Behind. * $5 Patreon Executive Producers — Benefits of $1 Executive Producers + Access to the MUSE series as it unfolds. * Click to Support: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Patreon

The Story Behind is also a Book! * Find it on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2FkbVU5 * Kindle Version: https://amzn.to/2CAn9Dj

Sources * 15 Shimmering Questions About Glitter, Answered - Mental Floss * What is Glitter? - The New York Times * What Makes Glitter Sparkle? - Wonderopolis * The History of Glitter - Huffington Post * Bio-Glitter * An Evolutionary Theory For Why You Love Glossy Things - Fast Company

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One of the most fascinating things about today’s episode is not just the creation of this everyday object, but the marketing tactic of presenting a problem that many people weren’t concerned with until the solution was advertised.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Mouthwash.

Vote for The Story Behind for the Webby Awards! CLICK HERE to vote!

Let's get social! * The Story Behind Discussion Group: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Facebook-Group * The Story Behind Facebook Page: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Facebook-Page * The Story Behind on Instagram: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Instagram * The Story Behind on Twitter: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Twitter

Support the Show — Become an Executive Producer * $1 Patreon Executive Producers — Extra monthly episode and thank you on an upcoming episode of The Story Behind. * $5 Patreon Executive Producers — Benefits of $1 Executive Producers + Access to the MUSE series as it unfolds. * Click to Support: TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Patreon

The Story Behind is also a Book! * Find it on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2FkbVU5 * Kindle Version: https://amzn.to/2CAn9Dj

Sources * The Crazy (and Disgusting) History of Mouthwash - NoCavityKids.com * Listerine Halitosis Ad 8 Aug 1921 - Newspapers.com * Cloves - The Perfect Pantry * Classic Ad Review: Listerine And The Halitosis Hallelujah - AdAge.com * History of LISTERINE®: From Surgery Antiseptic to Modern Mouthwash - Listerine * 6 Practical Ways Romans Used Human Urine and Feces in Daily Life - Mental Floss * What's in the turtle's blood? - News24 * How Mouthwash Is Made - MixerDirect.com * Discovery Of Bacteria - Explorable * Bad Breath Wasn’t Invented by Listerine - Smile Columbia Dentistry

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Happy April Fool’s Day.

This year, I was part of a number of other podcasts that wanted to do some cross-promotion, so if you’re looking for The Story Behind April Fool’s Day, I invite you to check out the Forgotten News Podcast.

I should put a disclaimer on this episode that it may not be suitable for younger or sensitive audiences since procreation and the anatomical names for body parts are mentioned. And remember, take everything you read and hear today with a grain of salt.

Enjoy this episode of the Forgotten News Podcast, and if you like it, be sure to subscribe so you’ll never miss an episode.

And if you’re listening to this as a Forgotten News Podcast listener, thanks for coming over and checking out The Story Behind! Jim and Kit did a great job talking about The Story Behind this particular piece of Forgotten News Podcast and I invite you to subscribe while you’re over here.

Without further ado, I’m your host Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Son of a Gun.

Visit the Forgotten News Podcast website or listen over on PlayerFM or Podbay.

• Forgotten News Podcast on Twitter
• Forgotten News Podcast on Facebook
• Also check out Kit's other podcast, Whispered True Stories

Guest Voice * Jeremy Collins - Podcasts We Listen To and the Podcasts We Listen to Facebook Group * Also, check out Jeremy as a guest voice on The Story Behind the Lead Pipe!

Books Mentioned * Sex and the Civil War by Judith Giesberg * The Story the Soldiers Wouldn’t Tell - Thomas P. Lowry, MD

Music * MusicForMakers.com * Music by Kevin MacLeod of Incompetech.com – Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses / by 3.0

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One of my favorite holidays just passed. February 15th. Yup, you heard me right. February 15th, not the 14th. Oh, I love Valentine’s Day, but I’m more in love with the discounted candy the day after, including a candy that apparently I’m in the minority when it comes to liking. But this year, they were harder to come by, despite being the most popular Valentine’s Day candy. The history of any modern-day candy, actually, can be attributed to these, as well.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Conversation Hearts.

• Like the podcast? You’ll LOVE The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers

• Click here to become an Executive Producer and support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• The Origin of the Conversation Heart - Mental Floss
• Chalk Full of Love: The Evolution of Conversation Hearts - National Geographic
• The History of Sweetheart Candies - Smithsonian
• 10+ Years of Conversation Hearts - Reader’s Digest
• The Pharmacist Who Launched America’s Modern Candy Industry - Smithsonian
• O.R. Chase Sugar Machine - United States Patent and Trademark Office
• O.R. & S.E. Chase Lozenge Machine - United States Patent and Trademark Office
• America's favorite Valentine's Day candy is unavailable this year - CNBC
• Sweethearts Candies Won’t Be Available This Valentine’s Day - Smithsonian
• A-Twitter Over Updated Sweethearts Candy - NPR
• In with the old, out with the new - Boston.com
• Sweathearts Candies - Sprangler Candy
• 10 Things You Didn't Know About Candy Conversation Hearts - Country Living
• Spelling Love with Candy Hearts: The History of Conversation Heart Phrases - InfoPlease
• Wedding Day Lore - AVictorian.com
• Sweet Tooth: The Bittersweet History of Candy by Kate Hopkins
• 'The Mother Of The Valentine' - WBUR
• Conversation Hearts…necco Or Brach’s? - All Things Heart & Home

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One of my favorite things to learn about when researching episodes is how people marketed inventions that had never been on the market before. In The Story Behind Post-its, we talked about how 3M’s style of marketing was to show what the product could do, rather than just showing the product. In The Story Behind Dr Pepper, John W. Davis made it a point to tell six people every day his version of the beverage’s origin story.

And, probably in the running for most audacious marketing of an invention covered by The Story Behind is today’s topic, when its inventors rented a kangaroo to help demonstrate the fun jumping capabilities of the product.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Trampoline.

• Like the podcast? You’ll LOVE The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers

• Click here to become an Executive Producer and support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• Who Made That Trampoline? - The New York Times
• George Nissen: Inventor of the trampoline - The Independent
• The up-and-down history of the trampoline - ABC News
• 21 Fascinating Facts About Trampolines – Exercise, Education, and More! - Trampoline Review Guide
• The History of Trampolines - Trampoline Gurus
• Trampoline Equipment and History - Olympic.org
• The Difference Between a Rebounder & Trampoline - Livestrong.com
• Trampolines: A History - Rebounderz.com
• The History of Trampolines: All You Need to Know - TrampolineJudge.com
• AAP Advises Against Recreational Trampoline Use - American Academy of Pediatrics
• As Trampoline Parks Jump In Popularity, So Do Injuries - NPR
• Trampoline Parks Tied to Jump in Emergency Room Visits - Scientific American

Referenced:

• The Story Behind Post-its
• The Story Behind Dr Pepper
• The Story Behind Pantyhose

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Okay, campers, rise and shine and don't forget your booties 'cause it's cold out there today!

No, you’re not stuck in a loop, unless you’ve already listened to this episode before. But today’s episode is all about a seemingly silly holiday that has a fascinating history behind it and a 1993 movie that probably helped it become most likely permanently attached to Bill Murray.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Groundhog Day.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers

• Click here to become an Executive Producer and support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• First Groundhog Day - History.com
• Groundhog Day 2019: Punxsutawney Phil Predicts An Early Spring - NPR
• Why A Groundhog? Groundhog Day History & Folklore - Farmers’ Almanac
• Groundhog Day 2019 facts: The history of Punxsutawney Phil - New York Post
• Here's How Groundhog Day Got Started - Time
• Legend & Lore - Groundhog.org
• Groundhog Day: A History, And 5 Facts You Didn’t Know - Huffington Post
• 2nd February, 2019 was… Hedgehog Day - DaysoftheYear.com
• Groundhog Day: History and Facts - History.com
• The sequel to the Bill Murray movie 'Groundhog Day' is a VR game - Engadget.com
• Groundhog Day: Like Father Like Son - groundhogvr.com
• ‘Groundhog Day': How Bill Murray Rom-Com Became an Accidental Classic - The Wrap
• Reliving Groundhog Day - The Atlantic
• Just How Many Days Does Bill Murray REALLY Spend Stuck Reliving Groundhog Day? - WhatCulture.com
• The Precise Number of Groundhog Days in “Groundhog Day” - IFC.com

Referenced:

• Varmints! Groundhogs episode

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Even though the topic of today’s episode isn’t necessarily exercise-related, it would be safe to say it gave me a bit of a workout this past week. Imagine paying $12 for something, then you find yourself struggling to put it on, only to have it rip.

Now, because I didn’t have time to go to the store for another pair, I put some clear nail polish on the rip and hoped they would hold out for the next few hours until I could take them off and throw them away. Women, you probably know what I’m referring to. Men, don’t worry, there’s a version for you that’s available that, after a Google image search, is now painfully seared into my mind.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Pantyhose.

(By the way, the men’s version is lovingly referred to as “mantyhose.”)

• Get your very own copy of The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast about her weight-loss journey, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook to talk more about the show and submit your own trivia!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers

• Click here to become an Executive Producer and support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• 50 Years of Pantyhose - Smithsonian
• Who Invented Pantyhose? - ThoughtCo
• Before Pantyhose Were a Curse, They Were a Revelation - Racked
• The History of Pantyhose - TheInventors.org
• History of Pantyhose - Boing Boing
• Celebrity Invention: Catwoman's Booty-Accentuating Pantyhose - The Atlantic
• Pantyhose mystery on Lakeshore - Grand Haven Tribune

Referenced:

• The Story Behind the Toothbrush

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Remember the Left Shark from the Super Bowl a few years ago? He was supposed to be just a guy in a shark costume dancing next to Katy Perry during the halftime show. But because he decided to do his own thing, he became the center of attention. Every so often, another Left Shark will come along in the background of an event only to steal the show.

The most recent of these was the Fiji Water girl during the Golden Globes red carpet, who has been given the title 2019’s first meme after appearing to have photobombed many shots of the celebrities on the red carpet. Her real name is Kelleth Cuthbert, a Canadian model and influencer.

That brings us to today’s topic. As you’ll find out, this everyday object is less about necessity but more about clever marketing, even before Cuthbert generated $12 million worth of brand exposure the past week.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Bottled Water.

*Note: A previous version of this podcast episode mentioned "Sarasota Springs," instead of Saratoga Springs. Thank you to John for calling this to my attention.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers

• Click here to become an Executive Producer and support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers
• Perrier Orson Welles 1979 - YouTube

Sources:

• The Fiji Water Girl's Identity Has Been Revealed And She Was An Influencer Before She Was A Meme - ELLE
• A Brief History of Bottled Water - Kitchn
• How Bottled Water Became America's Most Popular Beverage - Serious Eats
• History of Bottled Water - European Federation of Bottled Water
• John Snow's data journalism: the cholera map that changed the world - The Guardian
• Suckers for bottled water - The Guardian
• Why Americans Are Obsessed With Bottled Water - NPR
• PET bottles potential health hazard - ABC Science
• Fiji Water: Spin the Bottle - Mother Jones
• The story of FIJI Water – A green and fair product? - SinkingIslands.com

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One of my favorite compliments I get about The Story Behind book is that people love reading it in the bathroom. At first, people seem embarrassed to tell me this, but in the introductory chapter of the book, I put a PS at the end that says, “I won’t be offended if you read it in the bathroom.. So, in case you want to bring the book into the bathroom or you just want something to think about for those awkward moments you find yourself in a stall without any reading material, this episode is for you.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Toilet Paper.

The role of Johnny Carson was played by Chris Nesi from House of EdTech.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers

• Click here to become an Executive Producer and support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• EVER WONDERED about the history of toilet paper? - Washington Post
• Toilet Paper History: How America Convinced the World to Wipe - Mental Floss
• The History of Toilet Paper, Explained - Boxed
• What Did People Use Before Toilet Paper? - Mental Floss
• Did ohnny Carson cause a toilet paper shortage in 1973 after making a joke on The Tonight Show? - Snopes
• History Of Toilet Paper - ToiletPaperHistory.net
• The History of Toilet Paper - AngelSoft.com
• History of Toilet Paper - Charmin.com

Referenced:

• How Sears Mail-Order Catalogs Undermined Jim Crow Racism - Chicago Tribune

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Hey there! Hope everyone is enjoying this weird week between Christmas and New Years! When I released the last episode, The Story Behind Christmas Traditions, Part 2, I had some questions about the first part.

I released that one way back in 2016, but since I’ve gotten more listeners since then, I thought it would be fun to re-release it. Even though it’s no longer Christmas, why not enjoy saying goodbye to Christmas 2018 with The Story Behind. Enjoy!

There are lots of fun things in store for The Story Behind in 2019, including Patreon-exclusive content for executive producers. You can be an Executive Producer by going to Patreon.com/TheStoryBehind. Usually, I don’t get a chance to talk about Patreon on the show too much.

For those who don’t know what it is, it’s a way to support artists and creators you enjoy on a monthly basis for as low as $1 a month. The reason I call those who support The Story Behind executive producers is that the job of an executive producer is to make sure funds are in place for shows to go on. They are also invested in the content, like an executive producer on television or in the movies. Another reason is that Diane from History Goes Bump called her Patreon supporters that, I absolutely loved it and made sure to get her permission before using it. Executive Producers get to look at the scripts for episodes ahead of time.

And starting in 2019. Executive Producers will be getting bonus episodes with no “quick messages” - just full content. There will be a theme for this year and the monthly bonus episodes will be The Stories Behind each month. So, releasing in January will be The Story Behind January, including the history of the name, as well as information about birthstones, birth flowers, notable dates and birthdays, and a whole lot more. So if you’re looking for more episodes of The Story Behind, be sure to check out Patreon.com/TheStoryBehind.

In addition, Executive Producers of $5 or more will be getting exclusive access to a new project I’m working on called Muse. It’s still in the very beginning phases so there isn’t much there, but I’m seeing this as a breakout podcast from The Story Behind. It will be a long-form series based on one specific topic. I’m aiming to put out the first episode in March, but for now, I am enjoying the research process.

You’ll hear more about that project in future episodes of The Story Behind.

I also wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has purchased The Story Behind book and all the lovely pictures of people I’ve seen opening them for Christmas! You all made 2018 amazing for this podcast, and I thank you so much for all your generosity and support.

And, as always, thanks for listening.

Referenced:

• The Story Behind Christmas Traditions (Part 1)
• Everyone Has a Podcast

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As I’m recording this, I have my holiday candle burning, my kids hopped up on Christmas cookie sugar, and I’m struggling to find a way to hide Christmas presents from my husband before being able to wrap them. If you’re listening to this way later, and you haven’t already looked at the title of this episode, get ready for a throwback to what kids and retailers call The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.

When I first started this podcast back in 2016, I did an episode like this and I liked it a lot, and it’s a nice way to cap off the year, since I’ll be taking a winter break with the show until the new year.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Christmas Traditions: Part 2.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Are you a member of The Podcast Brunch Club? I’m coordinating with them for a book giveaway with them, as well!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers

• Click here to become an Executive Producer and support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers
• FreeXMasMP3.com

Sources:

• The Death of Baldur - Norse-Mythology.org
• Why Do We Kiss Under the Mistletoe? - History.com
• Pucker Up! Why Do People Kiss Under the Mistletoe? - Live Science
• Mistletoe Traditions - Mistletoe.org.uk
• 15 Fun Facts About Fruitcake - Mental Floss
• The secret history of fruitcake - CBC
• FOOD; Lasting Legacy of Fruitcake - The New York Times
• Why We Eat Fruitcake on Christmas - The Daily Meal
• A Short History of Fruitcake - The Village Voice
• Fruitcake Toss - Visit Colorado Springs
• The Legend of the Christmas Stocking - Smithsonian.org
• The Christmas Stocking - The New York Times
• History of Christmas Stockings - Love to Know
• Christmas Stocking - Love to Know
• Socks or Shoes? Why We Hang Christmas Stockings - Socks or Shoes? Why We Hang Christmas Stockings

Referenced:

• The Story Behind Christmas Traditions (Part 1)
• Christmas Past podcast

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I love my job as a podcast editor. I get to listen to podcasts every day and get paid for it, and my clients are absolutely wonderful, as many podcasters often are.

One of my clients, Catherine, is the producer for Solo Travel Talk with Astrid Clements of AstridTravel.com. Every episode I listen to, I find out about travel destinations that all end up going on my bucket list.

But when I edited a particular episode, answering questions about today’s topic as it pertains to different parts of the world, I was fascinated to find out that it was more than what I assumed was a way of saying thank you to a restaurant server.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Tipping.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Are you a member of The Podcast Brunch Club? I’m coordinating with them for a book giveaway with them, as well! This month’s theme: Last Seen.
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers

• Click here to become an Executive Producer and support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• 'It's the Legacy of Slavery': Here's the Troubling History Behind Tipping Practices in the U.S. - Time
• Sharecropping - PBS
• Debunking myths: the real origins of ‘posh’ and ‘tip’ - Oxford Dictionaries
• When Tipping Was Considered Deeply Un-American - NPR
• With the holidays upon us, is it time to end tipping? - The Conversation
• The Racist, Twisted History of Tipping - Mother Jones
• A Brief History of Tipping - TripSavvy
• I dare you to read this and still feel good about tipping - The Washington Post
• Danny Meyer's anti-tipping policy is nothing new — 6 states once banned the practice - Business Insider
• 9 Amazing Tipping Stories - Mental Floss
• American tipping is rooted in slavery—and it still hurts workers today - Ford Foundation
• BAD GRATITUDES: WORKING FOR TIPS SINCE MEDIEVAL SERFDOM - The Asterisk Today
• After 24 Years Pushing Pizza, Waitress Phyllis Penzo Gets a Tip to Remember: $3 Million - People
• Holiday Tipping Checklist - Real Simple
• Etiquette 101: Your Guide to Tipping Around the World - Conde Nast
• A Longtime Concierge On Hotel Tipping, Online Reviews, and More - Conde Nast

Referenced

• Episode 097: Keep the Change - Tipping While Traveling - Solo Travel Talk

View Details

When I was in Washington, DC, a few weeks ago, I stopped at the International Spy Museum before leaving. I could have stayed in there for hours, and it was incredible to see these gadgets and spy equipment that we normally only see in movies. But a set of pictures intrigued me. They were of both Union and Confederate soldiers using the topic of today’s episode to spy on one another.

Not only would they use this to observe the enemy, but they were also able to learn the terrain of the battlefield, take inventory, and even aim accordingly in the direction of the oncoming enemy. Oh, and this “spy vehicle” wasn’t concealed at all.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Balloons.

• Grab your copy of The Story Behind Book!
• Are you a member of The Podcast Brunch Club? Find out how you can WIN a copy from them, plus meet other podcast listeners in your area!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers

• Click here to become an Executive Producer and support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• Balloon - Etymonline.com
• This Party’s Blowin’ Up - Slate
• Frequently Asked Questions - The Balloon Council
• The Physics Of The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloons - Wired
• Early Balloons Were Made From Animal Intestines - Mental Floss
• History of Toy Balloon - Who Invented the Rubber Balloon? - History of Balloons
• Why We Are Running Out of Helium And What We Can Do About It - Forbes
• That Dire Helium Shortage? Vastly Inflated - Wired
• We Discovered Helium 150 Years Ago. Are We Running Out? - National Geographic
• It's The Dixville Notch Chamber Pot Mystery: Who'll Be First To Vote In First Primary This Year? - Hartford Courant
• Explainer: Why Dixville Notch Votes at Midnight - WNYC
• Neil Tillotson, 102, First Presidential Voter - The New York Times
• Why Does Helium Change the Sound of Your Voice? - Wonderopolis

View Details

This past year has been one of the busiest I’ve ever had. I could never have imagined two years ago that starting this podcast would have brought me the most amazing listeners in the world or that they would go from listeners to the best book launch team I could have imagined.

Since we’re celebrating Thanksgiving in the United States this week, I wanted to take a moment to tell you how thankful I am for everything you’ve done for me and this podcast.

From sharing the show with your friends and family, to writing such kind words and Amazon reviews for The Story Behind book, to supporting the show on Patreon, and for all those times you’ve shared trivia you’ve learned on the show or shared trivia back with me.

I hope your holiday season is a happy one. And I look forward to seeing where The Story Behind goes in 2019, because you’ve proven that even though I write and produce the show, you are actually what makes the show great. So, thank you!

I hope listeners in the United States had a lovely Thanksgiving and hopefully can have some fun conversation about today’s topic while eating the leftovers.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Cranberry Sauce.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Bonus link for reading the show notes: Ultimate Party Meatballs recipe
• Still looking for recipes? Check out Adam from Odd Dad Out and his cranberry sauce recipe.
• Are you a member of The Podcast Brunch Club? I’m coordinating with them for a book giveaway with them, as well!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jeffrey Seguritan, Podcasts We Listen to, Dan Gallagher, Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

• Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• This Man Made the First Canned Cranberry Sauce - Smithsonian
• Cranberries: The Most Intriguing Native North American Fruit - The American Phytopathological Society
• Canned cranberry sauce, explained - Vox
• Cranberries, a Thanksgiving Staple, Were a Native American Superfood - National Geographic
• Made in Jersey - Cranberries: New Jersey's contribution to Thanksgiving dinner - NJ.com
• 10 facts you may not know about N.J. cranberries - NJ.com
• The Cranberry Industry and Ocean Spray Cooperative: Lessons in Cooperative Governance - Food System Research Group
• How Canned Cranberry Jelly Became a Thanksgiving Icon - Kitchn
• The dark and sordid history behind America’s obsession with cranberries - Quartz
• History of Our Thanksgiving Meal - Organic Authority
• Beatles Myths - The Internet Beatles Album
• Cranberries - Band Name Explained
• The Cranberries - AllMusic
• The Great Thanksgiving Cranberry Scare Of 1959 - Forbes
• The Great Cranberry Scare of 1959 - The New Yorker
• Could The Delaney Clause Rear Its Head Yet Again? - The FDA Law Blog
• The 1st Great Chemical Cancer Scare? Cranberries, Thanksgiving 1959 - American Council on Science and Health
• Cranberry Study Shows Flaws in Research - Healthline
• 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Cranberries and Cranberry Bogs Slideshow - The Daily Meal
• Irrigation Return Flow or Discrete Discharge? Why Water Pollution From Cranberry Bogs Should Fall Within the Clean Water Act’s NPDES Program - Environmental Law Review
• Your Thanksgiving cranberry sauce is poisoning Native American lands - The Guardian

Referenced:

• The Story Behind Subliminal Messages
• Toe on the Trigger

View Details

Sorry for the delayed episode this week! If you follow me on Instagram or Twitter, you may have seen that I went to DC Podfest. And the first day I was there, I woke up with the beginnings of a cold. Luckily, I was able to get a hold of a bottle of Zicam fairly quickly and stave off the cold for a few days … until I got home. And then, it hit. This week has been a bit of a fever dream for me, but it made me start to wonder about some of the things we say when we’re sick and the origins, so get ready for a bit of an etymology episode.

But as long as there have been humans, humans have been getting sick, and many of these idioms carry a lot of unverifiable history with them. And, much like the cure for the common cold, the true origin stories of these phrases may never be found.

You’re listening to The Story Behind: The Extraordinary History of the Ordinary. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Sick Sayings.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Are you a member of The Podcast Brunch Club? I’m coordinating with them for a book giveaway with them, as well!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jeffrey Seguritan, Podcasts We Listen to, Dan Gallagher, Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

• Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• God Bless You! Idioms for Those With the Cold and Flu Illness - ABC News
• Etymology of Bless You! - Snopes
• The meaning and origin of the expression: A frog in the throat - The Phrase Finder
• Sick as a dog - World Wide Words
• What is the origin of the phrase 'as sick as a parrot'? - The Guardian
• Does your heart stop when you sneeze? - Everyday Mysteries
• Sneezing With Your Eyes Open - Discovery/Mythbusters
• Ahem! What is a ‘frog in the throat,’ anyway? - NBC News
• Have You Ever Had a Frog In Your Throat? - Wonderopolis
• David Blaine Went on an Epic Quest to Learn How to Regurgitate Frogs - Vulture

Referenced:

• Podcast Brunch Club
• Sunshine & PowerCuts
• Podcast Brunch Club: Connecticut Chapter Facebook Group
• The Story Behind Book

View Details

If you follow @StoryBehindPod on Instagram, you may have seen that I went to Boston last weekend for the Sound Education conference at Harvard University to be on a panel with other history podcasters that included Liz Covart from Ben Franklin’s World, Patrick Wyman from Tides of History, and David Stenhouse from BackStory. I respect these podcasters greatly and it was such an honor to be in the same room as them. Because my travel schedule is pretty hectic this month, I only stayed in Boston for one day so I didn’t get to experience anything outside of Harvard and the train station, but if you’ve ever been to Boston, you know that it seems there’s history on every street.

I got to hang out with Chris Nesi from The House of #EdTech podcast while I was there and he suggested I do an episode relating to Boston. Since any history regarding Boston would be a huge undertaking, I wanted to pick something a little more obscure, but still very much Boston-related. And food is always one of my favorite topics to research.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Boston Baked Beans.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Are you a member of The Podcast Brunch Club? I’m coordinating with them for a book giveaway with them, as well!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jeffrey Seguritan, Podcasts We Listen to, Dan Gallagher, Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

• Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• The Great Molasses Flood - Boston Discovery Guide
• Boston Baked Beans: Recipes and Lore - Trip Savvy
• Without Warning, Molasses in January Surged Over Boston - Smithsonian
• What Was the Triangle Trade? - ThoughtCo.com
• History shows Boston curse full of beans - Chicago Tribune
• Was Boston once literally flooded with molasses? - The Straight Dope
• The Great Molasses Flood of 1919 - History.com
• Remembering Boston's Great Molasses Flood of 1919 - Mental Floss
• Solving a Mystery Behind the Deadly ‘Tsunami of Molasses’ of 1919 - The New York Times
• Boston Baked Beans - Old Time Candy
• A Selective History of Beans - Republic of Beans
• Boston Baked Beans, and Other Foods Named After Different Foods - Serious Eats
• Bean Town Origin - Celebrate Boston
• Confectioners' and Bakers' Gazette, Volume 21 - Google Books

Other References in the Show

• Sound Education
• Ben Franklin’s World
• Tides of History
• Backstory
• House of #EdTech

View Details

This is a very special episode of The Story Behind. Believe it or not, two years ago I pressed Publish on the first three episodes of this podcast, The Story Behind the Theremin, The Story Behind Dry Ice, and The Story Behind Sugar Skulls. This podcast was supposed to be a side-project for me. It was supposed to just take up a little of my time, so I could continue my hobby of podcasting while holding a full-time job and when I was pregnant with my son.

That’s what it was supposed to be. But in the two years since the show began, it took on more. It became my favorite distraction. It allowed me to geek out over things I never had a reason to learn otherwise. And it kept my brain from going to complete mush with pregnancy brain and post-partum brain. Plus, it led me to a career in podcasting and finally, it became the basis for The Story Behind book.

Now, after last year’s one-year and 100th episode special of The Story Behind The Musical, which was sung, I knew it would take a lot to top that for this year’s episode. In fact, it’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you. There’s nothing that a 100 episodes or more could ever do.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind “Africa” by Toto.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Are you a member of The Podcast Brunch Club? I’m coordinating with them for a book giveaway with them, as well!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jeffrey Seguritan, Podcasts We Listen to, Dan Gallagher, Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

• Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers
• Toto - Africa ( Chicken Cover )

Sources:

• The story behind Toto's 'Africa' - Boing Boing
• Toto's David Paich talks Quincy Jones sessions and writing Africa - Music Radar
• Q&’80s: Toto’s Dave Paich on Writing and Recording ‘Africa’ - Grantland
• Africa by Toto - Song Facts
• Toto's 'Africa': The Oral History of '80s Pop's Most-Spoofed Megahit - Billboard
• The Ongoing Legacy of Toto’s ‘Africa’ - Ultimate Classic Rock
• How ‘Africa’ by Toto Became the Internet’s Favorite Song - Vice/Motherboard
• Weezer Covers Toto's 'Africa,' Taking Us Deep Into The Internet's Heart Of Beigeness - NPR
• Weezer and Toto: the inside story of music’s unlikely love-in - The Guardian
• @weezerafrica on Twitter
• Weezer Recruit ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic for Video of Toto Cover ‘Africa’ - Rolling Stone
• The strange appeal of Toto’s Africa — and why it’s cover-proof - Financial Times
• r/TotoAfricaCovers - Reddit
• The Secret History Of Toto - Louder Sound
• Toto Band History - Toto99.com
• Interview: Toto: how we made Africa - The Guardian
• Steve Barron - IMDb
• How Toto’s ‘Africa’ Became the New ‘Don’t Stop Believin” - Rolling Stone
• Yacht Rock Web Series
• Africa - Toto (video)

Other Episodes Referenced

• The Story Behind the Theremin
• The Story Behind Dry Ice
• The Story Behind Sugar Skulls
• The Story Behind the Band-Aid

View Details

If you’re a parent who has even been on Pinterest and looked for activities for your child, you’ve probably seen at least a dozen different recipes for modeling clay or sensory dough, as it’s sometimes called. Most of the recipes are different variations on the mixture of flour, water and salt dough I remember using to make Christmas ornaments. So, one morning this week, I was searching for a recipe for my son. I spent a good 20 minutes making it, mixing in different colors, getting just the right proportions of flour to water to coconut oil so it wouldn’t stick to my hands or leave a greasy mess, only to have my son pick it up, drop it on the cat, and decide he was done with it. 20 minutes of making it, only to have it covered in cat hair after a minute or so.

After all that, I threw away the dough I had made and added today’s topic to the shopping list partially because it was easier to keep in the house and more convenient.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Play-Doh.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Find out about The Monday American Podcast giveaway for The Story Behind book in their October 4th episode, The Korean War (Part III): A War No Victor.
• Are you a member of The Podcast Brunch Club? I’m coordinating with them for a book giveaway with them, as well!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jeffrey Seguritan, Podcasts We Listen to, Dan Gallagher, Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

• Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• Play-Doh - National Toy Hall of Fame
• The History of Play-Doh: Good, Clean Fun! - Museum of Play
• Who Invented Play Dough? - Woderopolis
• 10 Fun Facts About Play-Doh - Mental Floss
• Play-doh Was Originally Wallpaper Cleaner - Today I Found Out
• 9 Things Invented or Discovered by Accident - How Stuff Works
• Playmakers Part II: Play-Doh - Parents’ Choice
• Play-Doh can fake your fingerprint - CNET
• The shocking story behind Playdoh's original purpose - Business Insider

Referenced:

• Ice Cream Float Wikipedia Page

View Details

If you’re listening to this episode when it comes out, you may know that The Story Behind book will be released on Monday, October 15th. In the spirit of that, I’ll be doing a few episodes revolving around books. This topic seemed almost too easy to cover, since the invention was something I think we all remember learning about in grammar school.

But, as per usual with this podcast and the book, whenever I dig a little deeper, I always find out new information that wasn’t in my history books. While those books were most likely printed using modern-day printers, there wouldn’t even have been widespread use of books without today’s topic in the first place.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Printing Press.

I’ll be releasing a separate episode with a book update, plus a sneak peek into the book’s acknowledgments because I really want to thank everyone, not just in the book, but also in the podcast, so check your podcast app and the show notes for that link.

• The Story Behind Book Update #2
• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!
• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jeffrey Seguritan, Podcasts We Listen to, Dan Gallagher, Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

• Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• Who Invented the Printing Press? - Live Science
• Johannes Gutenberg - Biography
• Disruption, Inventors, and Investors - Forbes
• 10 Things You Should Know About the Gutenberg Bible - Book Riot
• Gutenberg Bible - Digital Version - The University of Texas at Austin
• Johannes Gutenberg: The Steve Jobs of His Time - Medium
• Faust - Encyclopedia Britannica
• Gutenberg and Fust - History World
• Gutenberg’s Legacy - The University of Texas at Austin
• Johann Gutenberg: Adventure and Art - Vision.org
• 7 Little-Known Facts about Johannes Gutenberg and the Gutenberg Press - Earth Color
• The Invention of the Printing Press - PS Print
• The Gutenberg Press - Oregon State University

Referenced:

• Even without the Banana Slugs, schools with wrestling have plenty of colorful and unique nicknames - Mat Talk Online

View Details

There will be a new episode this week, but I also wanted to put out a bonus episode talking about The Story Behind book, which releases Monday, October 15th.

In all honesty, it's still not real, even after getting the advanced copies of the book, and on top of everything, social media fatigue and impostor syndrome have really gone into overdrive the past few weeks.

But before the book launch day is here, I wanted to thank you all, once again, for all your support. Plus, get a preview of the acknowledgments section in this episode.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jeffrey Seguritan, Podcasts We Listen to, Dan Gallagher, Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

• Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

View Details

Only a few more weeks until The Story Behind book is out! And one of my podcasting mentors and buddies Dave Jackson gave me the idea to do a bunch of episodes relating to books around this time to hopefully set the mood for its release.

While I was looking into different topics, I found out that the week this comes out, the week from September 23-29, 2018, is Banned Books Week, so what better time to have that as a topic.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Banned Books.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Dan Gallagher, Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Epic Film Guy Nick, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

• Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• Qin Shi Huang: The ruthless emperor who burned books - BBC.com
• Bannings and Burnings in History - FreedomToRead.ca
• The History (and Present) of Banning Books in America - lithub.com
• Banned Books Week - American Booksellers Association
• BannedBooksWeek.org
• Brief History of Banned Books in America - BooksTellYouWhy.com
• Censorship Project + A Brief History of Book Burning - ExUrbe.com
• Banned Books Week 2018: What Books are Banned Most Frequently? - Newsweek
• The history of book banning in America – Lesson Plan - PBS.org
• How Book Banning Works - HowStuffWorks.com
• 24 of the Most Banned Books of All Time - MentalFloss.com
• 6 Historical High Points For Book Banning - HuffingtonPost.com
• Top Ten Most Challenged Books Lists - American Library Association - ala.org
• Acts 19:19 - BibleHub.com
• Anthony Comstock - Encyclopedia Britannica
• Anthony Comstock - Smithsonian National Postal Museum
• Banned in the Media: A Reference Guide to Censorship in the Press, Motion Pictures, Broadcasting, and the Internet by Herbert N. Foerstel

Referred to Episodes:

• The Story Behind the Necktie

View Details

School picture time is here and every time I get my daughter ready for her picture, I try not to follow current trends too much. I have this fear she’ll have the same experience I had in 1990 when my mom decided to go all out with my school picture and not only give me a big enough pinafore on my dress that it could double as a wind sail on a small boat, but she also teased my bangs and hair so much that I remember the photographer moving his camera back to get the full look.

And, yes, if you follow The Story Behind on Twitter, Instagram and in the Facebook group, I’ll post the picture for you all to see. I also encourage you to post some of your school photos so I don’t feel as bad.

But I bring up this picture for a reason. There wouldn’t have been that awful picture in the world without the topic of today’s episode.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Hairspray.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

• Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• The Story Behind: The Musical!
• Music for Makers

Sources:

• The History of Hairspray Products - Leaf.tv
• Beauty throwback: The story behind hairspray - aol.com
• The History of Hairspray - LiveAbout
• Victorian Hairspray: A Brief History of Gum Solutions and Bandoline - MimiMatthews.com
• '80s Trend Revisited: AquaNet Hairspray Is BACK. Need I Say More? - Glamour
• History of Hair Styling - ThoughtCo.com
• 8 Vintage Hairstyling Products Your Grandmother Probably Swore By - Mental Floss
• The Complete Story of the Woman Who Created the Beehive Hairdo - Fortune
• Margaret Vinci Heldt, creator of the beehive hairstyle, dies at age 98 - The Guardian
• 1960s Hair Icons Who Taught Us Everything About Big Hair - Huffington Post
• The Beehive: Hair That Defined The 1960s - Flashbak.com
• The History of Aerosol Spray Cans - ThoughtCo
• History - ChaseProducts.com
• Hairsproy [SIC] - MadeHow.com
• Hair Through History: 9 Memorable Hairstyles of the 1950s - Beauty Launchpad
• 20 Unbelievable Ways You Never Knew You Could Use Hair Spray - Reader’s Digest
• Hairspray’s Revealing Portrayal of Racism in America - The Atlantic
• Historic Photos of Baltimore Show the Real-Life “Hairspray” - Smithsonian.com
• The Messy Truth of The Real 'Hairspray' - The Washington Post

View Details

I honestly didn’t think I would be as interested in the history of today’s topic when I first started reading about it. There was a lot of chemistry involved and anyone who knew me in high school knows that was the worst subject for me. When you listen to the episode, you’ll notice I kept the chemistry aspect to a minimum. But as I kept researching, what intrigued me the most was when the chemistry switched to biology and women’s studies toward the end, when working conditions for those making today’s subject resulted in a serious epidemic and women went on strike to protect themselves and other workers.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Matches.

• Find out more about The Story Behind Book!
• Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!
• Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!
• Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website
• This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.
• Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• A History of the Match - The Museum of Everyday Life
• History of Chemical Matches - ToughtCo.com
• John Walker's Friction Light - BBC
• History of Matches and Lighters - HistoryofMatches.com
• Phosphorus Element Facts - Chemicool
• Friction Matches Were a Boon to Those Lighting Fires–Not So Much to Matchmakers - Smithsonian.mag
• Today in Science History - Nov. 27 - TodayInSci.com
• Uncovering the cause of "phossy jaw" Circa 1858 to 1906 - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
• Meet the matchstick women — the hidden victims of the industrial revolution - The Conversation
• The return of the dreaded 'Phossy Jaw' - Destistryiq.com
• White slavery in London by Annie Besant - mernick.org.uk
• Annie Besant (1847 - 1933) - BBC
• Matchsticks Once Sickened and Deformed Women and Children - Mental Floss
• Matchgirls Strike - BBC America

Referenced:

• Cutting Class Podcast: Body by Calvin Coolidge

View Details

I love when I find out an origin story I think I knew turns out to be either a widely believed false rumor or when I find out other people learned different origin stories. That’s what this episode is about, so if you think you already know the story behind today’s subject, you may be surprised to learn there are actually multiple versions.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Teddy Bear.

Check out Varmints! Episode 73 — Black Bears

Find out more about The Story Behind Book!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Epic Film Guy Nick, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

• Teddy Bear - The National Museum of American History
• The Story of the Teddy Bear - National Park Service
• 14 Furry Facts About Bears - Mental Floss
• Teddy Bear Truth was Too Much to Bear - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
• VIDEO: TED Talk: The strange story of the teddy bear and what it reveals | Jon Mooallem
• This Day in History: 1903: First Teddy Bear Goes on Sale - History.com
• Steiff: The Story - Steiffusa.com
• The history of Steiff teddy bears - SteiffTeddyBears.co.uk

View Details

For us in the Northern Hemisphere, the summer is pretty much reaching the end. And, as a parent, I’m pretty happy about that because it means my daughter is back in school.

But before we start talking about Pumpkin Spice-everything and the holiday season, here’s one last hurrah. And, for many like me, no summer is complete without having ridden the topic of today’s episode at least once. Although, you might be surprised to learn its origins actually began as a winter recreational activity.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Roller Coasters.

It's less than two months until The Story Behind Book releases and I am so super excited and it still doesn’t seem real yet. If you haven’t pre-ordered your copy yet, you can find the book on Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com. Now, believe it or not, there are a lot of books with “The Story Behind” in the title, so people have said searching The Story Behind with my name works well.

Or, the super easy way is to go to TheStoryBehindBook.com and click the links over there. By the way, the more people order the book, the more the price will go down, and when you pre-order on Amazon, you won’t be charged until the day it releases, so the more people you share this news with, the more the price will go down.

And, one more thing, I was told by my publisher to let people know that if you are an Amazon Associates member, you can make an affiliate link to the book on Amazon and share the link with your audience on your blog or website to receive a little kickback when people purchase it using your link. Anyway, thank you to everyone who has been promoting the book so far. You are all amazing and it’s meant the world to me that fellow podcasters and listeners have been some of my biggest supporters. This really is one of the best communities in the world. So, thank you!

Find out more about The Story Behind Book!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Jonathan Bloom, Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Epic Film Guy Nick, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

• A Brief History of the Roller Coaster - The Washington Post
• 1884 - First roller coaster in America opens - History.com
• From Death Traps to Disneyland: The 600-Year History of the Roller Coaster - Popular Mechanics
• The Psychology of Roller Coasters - Scientific American
• The History and Psychology of Roller Coasters - Smithsonian.com
• Ups and Downs: The History of Roller Coasters - USA Today
• How Roller Coasters Work - How Roller Coasters Work
• Coasting Through History: The Golden Age - Coaster101.com
• Catherine the Great Put Rollers on the World’s First Coaster - Wired.com
• Design and Techology - IAAPA
• Rollercoasters - Explain That Stuff!
• The Science Behind Why We Love Terrifying Ourselves on Rollercoasters - Science Alert
• Horror At The Amusement Park: 13 Gruesome Roller-Coaster Deaths - Thought Catalog
• 10 Deadliest Roller Coaster Accidents - How Stuff Works
• 15 Dangerous Roller Coasters You Can't Ride Anymore - The Richest
• Roller Coaster Blackouts: Safe or Scary? - U.S. News
• Frequently Asked Questions About ACE - American Coaster Enthusiasts

View Details

This episode will be told in layers. The tasty summer treat I’m talking about has three ingredients, and while they’re all delicious on their own, together they are incredible. And this episode will be set up similarly, with different stories smushed together into one show.

This episode has just a little mature subject matter in the first section that refers to the birds and the bees, just a heads up.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind S’mores.

Find out more about The Story Behind Book at TheStoryBehindBook.com!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Ryan P. Jackson, Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Epic Film Guy Nick, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

• The Origin of Graham Crackers - Snopes
• Looking to Quell Sexual Urges? Consider the Graham Cracker - The Atlantic
• Historical development of vegetarianism - US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health
• Graham Crackers Were Originally Meant To Be Part Of A Diet Thought To Curb Sexual Urges - Today I Found Out
• Who Invented Graham Crackers? - ThoughtCo
• Our History - Honey Maid
• Marshmallows - National Confectioners Association
• The Long, Sweet History of Marshmallows - Mental Floss
• A Brief History of Marshmallows - Headstuff.org
• The History of Marshmallows - ThoughtCo
• Stay Puft Marshmallows from Ghostbusters Made Real - Eater.com
• Who Was Milton S. Hershey? - The Hershey Story
• History of Hershey's Chocolate and Milton Hershey - ThoughtCo
• Milton Hershey - Biography.com
• Who Made That Hershey Bar? - The New York Times
• The History of S'mores: Ancient Greeks, Girl Scouts and One Very Puritanical Minister - Food & Wine
• A brief history of the s'more, America’s favorite campfire snack - The Conversation

View Details

Today I’m doing a collaborative show with Josh Hallmark from the podcast Our Americana, which explores unique small towns across America through the stories that impact, cultivate, and challenge community.

America can feel oppressive. Every day it feels more and more like pieces of it are disappearing. That it’s losing its value. But … there are monuments and mementos of the past if we just take a moment from our busy lives to take a look. Strange reminders of small victories, new life, love stories, and the strength of community. These stories are all around us, relics of station wagon days, on the highways and gravel roads that connect us all. It’s easy to dismiss them as icons of capitalism; if you build it, they will come, and buy. But, there’s always something more there, something deeper.

I'm Josh Hallmark from Our Americana and I'm Emily Prokop and this is the story behind Roadside Attractions.

Visit OurAmericanaPodcast.com to listen to Episode 4.4: Roadside Attractions (Monuments)

Find out more about The Story Behind Book!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Epic Film Guy Nick, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

• RoadsideAmerica.com
• Why Do We Travel For Pleasure? The Psychology Of Tourism, Explored - Bustle
• Tourist Psychology - Psychology Today
• Along the Interstates: Seeing the Roadside - General Highway History - Highway History - Federal Highway Administration
• Grand Tours History - Regency History
• How Americans Fell in Love With Taking Road Trips - Time
• The Real Paul Bunyan - How Stuff Works
• Was Paul Bunyan a real person? - HISTORY
• 6 Towns That Claim Paul Bunyan as Their Own (and What They Should Be Bragging About Instead) - Mental Floss
• Why do we love Paul Bunyan so much? – Twin Cities
• The World’s Largest Frying Pan — Er, Six of Them - Village Voice
• This Elephant Is Not Endangered : Victorian Relic Built in 1881 Is the Pride of Beach Town - Los Angeles Times
• Roadside Attractions--About This Lesson - National Parks Service
• Pokemon Go offers opportunity, challenges to tourist attractions - Travel Weekly
• “World’s biggest” roadside attractions: a history of “world’s largest” tourist traps - Slate
• Kitschiest Roadside Attractions in America - Travel & Leisure
• Are Old-fashioned Road Trips Trendy Again? - Boston.Com
• Roadside Attractions Fading from Landscape - NPR
• Why your church, art, and water towers are Pokemon Go gyms and Pokestops - GamesRadar.com

View Details

If you’re listening to this when it comes out, you may know that next week I’m going to a huge conference for podcasters known as Podcast Movement. And I thought it only appropriate to do an episode related to this.

You may be using the topic of today’s episode right now and listening to this episode with it. You may have even been appalled two years ago when Apple announced it was getting rid of the jack to plug today’s episode topic into on their iPhones. Nevertheless, almost everybody has a pair or two nowadays. And many, like me, may not even use them for their intended purpose, which is to listen to music or podcasts, but as a way to safeguard ourselves from talkative coworkers or overly friendly sales people.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Headphones.

Order your copy of The Story Behind Book!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Epic Film Guy Nick, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

California Dreamin’ - The Mamas & The Papas

Sources:

• The History of Headphones - Visual.ly
• A Partial History of Headphones - Smithsonian
• Lend us Your Ears: The History of Headphones - Davison Inventing
• The History of Headphones - Cool Material
• When were the First Headphones Invented? - Bright Hub
• Headphones: The Complete History - Stuff
• The History of Headphones - The Wall Street Journal
• Listen Up: Here's a Brief History of Headphones - Mashable
• How Headphones Changed the World - The Atlantic
• Ruin Followed Riches for a Utah Genius - The Salt Lake Tribune
• The Early Radio Industry and the United States Navy - EarlyRadioHistory.us
• Headphones tech: Dynamic vs planar magnetic vs electrostatic - Trusted Reviews
• Headphones - Explain That Stuff!
• Mono Or Stereo: Help! - NPR: All Songs Considered
• Koss History - Koss.com
• How Noise-canceling Headphones Work - How Noise-Canceling Headphones Work - How Stuff Works

View Details

One of my favorite things about doing this podcast is looking at things in everyday life and wondering if they still have the same purpose they did when they were invented. This week’s subject is a bit ambiguous. It’s most notably known for bringing a pop of color and whimsy to an otherwise drab suit, but aside from that, it’s more seen as form over function. Yet it’s so ubiquitous and has been around for hundreds of years, showing no signs of going out of fashion, despite many men counting down the minutes until they can loosen theirs every day.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Necktie.

Find out more about The Story Behind Book!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind (@StoryBehindPod): Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Linguist Sam, Epic Film Guy Nick, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a Podcast, Adam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

• A Twisted History of Neckties - The Washington Post
• The Evolution of the Necktie - Tie-a-tie.net
• The Origins of the Neck Tie - Today I Found Out
• A Point of View: The language of ties - BBC
• The Finest Neckties - Forbes
• Beau Brummell and the Birth of Regency Fashion - The Jane Austen Centre
• The Male Necktie - Hack Writers
• The Art of Tying the Cravat - Jane Austen’s World
• Un-American? Obama’s Ties Of A Different Stripe - Granite Grok
• Red vs. Blue: Why Necktie Colors Matter - Live Science
• "Power Ties" Are Actually Powerless - Psychology Today
• The Long, Red History of the Power Tie - Racked
• What the Color of Your Tie Says About You - BBC

View Details

If you’ve ever read Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart,” you may hear a heartbeat as something a little creepy. Although it’s funny to note that on many sound machines for babies, a heartbeat is offered as a way to help them remember one of the sounds they heard in the womb. However, for doctors, the sound of a heartbeat can tell an awful lot about a person. It’s one of the first things they listen to during a physical exam. It’s also one of the first things an OB-GYN looks for and, later in the pregnancy, listens to for a pregnant woman.

While listening to the heart isn’t new in the world of medicine, one of the most common tools for doing so is only a little more than 200 years old.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind The Stethoscope.

Find out more about The Story Behind Book!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Barry G, Bandrew Scott, Jarrod Dunham, Liguist Sam, Epic Film Guy Nick, Ryle Davis Jr., Dave Jackson, Sunshine & PowerCuts, Everyone Has a PodcastAdam Higgins, The Beardcaster, Elikqitie from Travel Gluten Free, Jim Collison, North Omaha History Podcast, Dan Brenic, Two Peas on a Podcast, Jason Bryant, History Goes Bump, The One Word Go Show, and Stargate Pioneer.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

• The Art of Listening - US National Library of Medicine
• Evolution of the Stethoscope - CEUfast
• What Do Hanson And Madonna Have In Common? Hits Ideal For Saving A Life - NPR
• It Was Almost Called the Cylinder (& Other Who-Knew Facts about the Stethoscope) - Clinical Correlations
• A short history of stethoscopes - Melnick Medical Museum
• History of the Stethoscope - American Diagnostic Corporation
• A Curious Inspiration for the First Stethoscope - PBS
• Dave Tompkins :: Music Database Browse by Beats Per Minute
• Animal Heartbeats - Everysecond.io

View Details

No new episode this week, but I wanted to give a quick update on the book, since I am up against deadline right now to get it finished on time.

I also wanted to thank everyone in The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook for their encouragement and support, and also go through some of the #TriviaTuesday posts from the past few weeks.

Thank you to everyone who listens to the show and has been so patient waiting for new episodes. You are all basically my inspiration whenever I sit down to get another chapter done. :)

Find out more about The Story Behind Book!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and Barry G, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

View Details

Earlier this week, one of the funniest exchanges on social media came about after the company known as IHOP changed out their P, which stood for Pancakes, to a B. Initially, no one knew what the B stood for. International House of Breakfast? International House of Bacon? International House of Brunch, complete with mimosas? Nope.

The B stood for Burgers, something IHOP has offered on its menu in the past, but when they finally revealed what the mystery was, they also decided to change their marketing to reflect that. And people were bittersweet about the change, including some of the other fast-food social media accounts, with Wendy’s even throwing shade on their Twitter account, saying, “Can’t wait to try a burger from the place that decided pancakes were too hard.”

So, that gave me the idea for this week’s episode. And, by the way, the change from IHOP to IHOB is only a temporary marketing campaign.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Hamburgers.

Find out more about The Story Behind Book!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and Barry G, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

• Hamburger Helpers: The History of America’s Favorite Sandwich - History.com
• History and Legends of Hamburgers - What’s Cooking America
• The History of the Hamburger - Serious Eats
• A Brief History Of The Hamburger - Culture Trip
• The history of the hamburger: An American invention - TimeOut
• The Most Important Burgers In Chicago History - Thrillist
• The Original Burger: Louis’ Lunch Burger Copycat Recipe - The Johan
• The History of Louis’ Lunch - Louis’ Lunch
• 10 Things You Didn't Know About the Fast Food Drive-Thru - Time
• History of the Hamburger - Burger Web
• The History of the Hamburger - Kitchen Project
• History of the Hamburger - Facts and Types - History of Fast Food

View Details

• Knock at the door
• One fat lady
• Rugby team
• Sweet sixteen
• A duck and a flea
• The famous street in Manhattan

No, those weren’t bloopers, although I’m sure this episode will have plenty. Those were actually number nicknames used in a particular game that’s been around for 500 years we’ll be talking about today.

This isn’t your granny’s church basement version, either.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Bingo.

The role of Edwin S. Lowe was played by Stargate Pioneer from the GonnaGeek Network, and it was watching Better Podcasting before writing this episode with him and Stephen Jondrew that inspired this topic. So, there you go, Stephen and SP, you guys saved my podcast tonight!

Support my friend Joe in Relay for Life this weekend: https://www.facebook.com/donate/204582960340595/

Find out more about The Story Behind Book!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and Barry G, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

• Bingo: History of the Game - ThoughtCo
• Where Does Bingo Come From? - Mental Floss
• How Did Bingo Originate? The History Of Bingo Explained - Casino.org
• History of Bingo – where did it all start? - BingoCalls.org
• Obituary: EDWIN S. LOWE, 75; TOY MANUFACTURER POPULARIZED BINGO - The New York Times
• THE E. S. LOWE TOY COMPANY, TIMING, AND CHESS - Duncan Pohl
• Bingo Nicknames ← Did you listen to the very end? You might find this useful ;)
• The History of Bingo Calling and Numbers - webxcon.com
• Bingo Calls - Wink Bingo
• The Ultimate Bingo Dictionary - Wink Bingo
• Bingo - The Wizard of Odds
• Tombola Game: history and traditions - Italy Heritage
• Bingo - The Chicago Tribune

Other Links:

• What Gets Weirder and Weirder the More You Think of It - Reddit Post
• Weird with You podcast

View Details

If you’re one of the die-hard listeners of The Story Behind who eagerly await the episode to be released at midnight Eastern time on Thursdays -- yes, Adam, I’m talking to you — you may be wondering why it’s a few hours late.

Usually, when an episode is late, it’s because I’m either dealing with family things or taking too long editing. But not tonight. The reason is that I’m hopelessly addicted to a game on my phone called Toon Blast. And I was on a winning streak tonight so, yeah, not a very good excuse.

But it did give me an idea for this week’s episode.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Pong.

Find out more about The Story Behind Book!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and Barry G, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

• Atari Pong - ComputingHistory.org
• The History Of Pong: Avoid Missing Game to Start Industry - Gamasutra.com
• Pong, Atari, and the origins of the home video game - Smithsonian
• Atari Teenage Riot: The Inside Story Of Pong And The Video Game Industry's Big Bang - Buzzfeed.com
• The Birth of Pong - Slate.com
• Pong-Story.com
• The Development Of The Video Game “Pong” Was A Training Exercise For A New Gaming Developer At Atari And Wasn’t Originally Intended To Be Released - TodayIFoundOut.com

Also Mentioned:

• Toon Blast! Game (iOS/Android)
• Turn of Phrases Podcast

View Details

As many of you know, The Story Behind is being turned into a book, which means I’m in the process right now of doing probably one of my favorite parts of making the podcast, which is doing a ton of research in preparation.

This week’s episode will be one of the chapters in the book, but the information and the inventor was one I found hard to keep to myself until the book came out. Even though we may curse at this week’s topic sometimes, it’s saved numerous lives and made driving much safer since its invention.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Traffic Light.

Help Support Livestream for the Cure!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and Barry G, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

• Video Of Traffic In 1906
• Automobile History - History.Com
• This Day In History: First Electric Traffic Signal Installed - History.Com
• This Day In History: Garrett Morgan Patents Three-position Traffic Signal - History.Com
• Automobiles: In The Days Of Crank And Sputter - American Comes Alive
• A History Of New York Traffic Lights - The New York Times
• A Brief History Of Traffic Lights - Artsy.Net
• Garrett Morgan, Inventor Of One Of The First Traffic Lights - Aareg
• Garrett A. Morgan - Black-inventor.Com
• Garrett Morgan - Biography.Com
• Fact: American Steering Wheels Haven't Always Been On The Left - Lost In The Pond
• Why Are Traffic Lights Red And Green? - Mental Floss
• The Reason Traffic Lights Are Red, Yellow, And Green - Thrillist

View Details

I’ve only done one other episode of The Story Behind about a song, and that was The Story Behind Imagine by John Lennon. And if you’ve been in the Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook, you probably would think I would be doing The Story Behind Arica by Toto. Well, not yet.

Usually, I get ideas for topics from stumbling into a piece of trivia I find fascinating during the week. However, this week, my son has been not only working on walking, but working on his first words, and his favorite one lately kept getting a particular song in my head.

Want a hint?

“Mama”

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen.

Help Support Livestream for the Cure!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and Barry G, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

• Music for Makers

Sources:

• Queen’s Official Site
• Inside the Rhapsody - Queen
• Smashed Hits: What is a Bohemian Rhapsody? - BBC
• Brian May on 40 years of Bohemian Rhapsody: 'I still listen to it in the car' - BBC
• 10 Operatic Facts About “Bohemian Rhapsody” - Mental Floss
• Bohemian Rhapsody - This Day in Music
• Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” - Performing Songwriter
• Readers' Poll: The Best Vocal Performances in Rock History - Rolling Stone
• Party On: Queen's Brian May Remembers 'Bohemian Rhapsody' on 40th Anniversary - Rolling Stone
• Rock Critics Really Blew Their Reviews of Queen's 'Bohemian Rhapsody' - TIME
• The Oral History of the 'Wayne's World' 'Bohemian Rhapsody' Scene - Rolling Stone
• Queen Biopic 'Bohemian Rhapsody' 'Is Finally Happening,' Band Confirms - Rolling Stone
• Freddie approved Wayne's World Rhapsody scene - Louder Sound
• How Do I Make Siri Sing Queen's 'Bohemian Rhapsody?' What Is The Sentence To Say To My iPhone? - WXERFM
• Bohemian Rhapsody - Song Facts
• 8 things you didn’t know about ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ - PBS
• Ten of the best 'Bohemian Rhapsody' covers for its 40th anniversary - SFGate
• The Story Behind Imagine by John Lennon - The Story Behind Podcast
• The Story Behind Clowns - The Story Behind Podcast

View Details

This will be a different episode from normal, since I normally don’t do interview shows, but I wanted to bring on Nick from the Epic Film Guys to talk a little bit about the fundraiser he and other podcasters are doing called Livestream for the Cure.

Nick is one of my oldest friends in podcasting and we met each other when we were in the beginning stages of podcasting, so I know you’ve heard me talk about him before. He was even on the episode The Story Behind Forrest Gump (The Movie) and he’s also provided me with his voice for previous shows and even a picture of his Beard for The Story Behind Beards. He’s a great friend to me and supporter of the show, so I am so honored to have him as a guest on today’s episode.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Livestream for the Cure.

Help Support Livestream for the Cure!

Watch the video of our conversation!

Watch the Blooper Reel of our conversation!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and Barry G, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Links mentioned:

• LivestreamForTheCure.com
• Nick on Twitter (@epicfilmguys)
• Epic Film Guys Facebook Group
• RestauRant Facebook Group
• Heather Welch’s Sunshine Summit
• The Story Behind Forrest Gump (The Movie)
• The Story Behind Beards

View Details

If this is your first episode, this is a warning it’ll be a little different than past episodes, but it will also be a good way to hear what this show is about. Does that make sense? Don’t worry. It will.

On the day I’m recording it, it is currently my birthday. It’s the ninth time I am turning 27, or 35 if you want to rub it in. And one of the great things about social media is getting birthday wishes from all over the world, so, really, I’ve been celebrating for 36 hours.

One message came from Rhett from The Wall-Fly Podcast who wished me a happy birthday and joked about The Story Behind Emily. But, since I hadn’t really planned ahead for this week’s episode, I thought it was a great idea, so thanks, Rhett!

So, this might seem like a little bit of vanity episode, and you’re more than welcome to skip it, but as I’ve found with podcasts I listen to, I really love learning about the host, so I hope you’ll enjoy this!

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Emily Prokop

Help Support Livestream for the Cure!

Thanks to Rhett from The Bar-Fly Podcast for the idea for this episode!

Check out Emily’s other podcast, Hate to Weight!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and Barry G, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

The Story Behind Mad Hatters | From Mercury Poisoning to Johnny Depp

The Story Behind Mercury Retrograde | Damn it, Planet!

The Story Behind the Luck of the Irish | Four-Leaf Clovers, Irish Luck, Leprechauns

The Story Behind: The Musical!

The Story Behind the Mona Lisa | Stolen Art and a Mysterious Smile

The Story Behind Las Vegas | Early Settlers, Quickie Divorces and Weddings, Casinos, and the Fabulous Sign

The Story Behind Wedding Luck & Superstitions | Wearing White, Bridesmaids, Rings, Rice, Cake and More

The Story Behind the Stanley Cup | Lord Stanley, NHL Play-Offs, New York Rangers

The Story Behind Lullabies | The Art of Sleeping Like a Baby

The Story Behind Podcasts | Celebrate the Power of Podcasts Sept. 30

Classy Little Podcast

The Story Behind 30 Random Things | Trivia and History Galore!

The Story Behind the Pink Slip | Enjoyment from Unemployment

The Story Behind Hoodies | For the Everyday Athlete, Rapper and CEO

The Story Behind the Treadmill | Where the Sidewalk Doesn't End

All of The Story Behind Food Episodes

View Details

This episode is actually one of the first topics I ever thought to talk about when I created the show. And I weirdly kept putting it off.

Whenever I tell someone what my podcast is about, I say something along the lines of it being a short history podcast about everyday things. And this particular topic has been the first thing that has popped into their minds as something I would do an episode on.

Well, after more than 100 episodes, I’m finally doing it.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Paperclip.

Help Support Livestream for the Cure!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and Barry G, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

The Perfection of the Paper Clip - Slate

History of the Paper Clip - Early Office Museum

TEN FACTS ABOUT THE PAPERCLIP - TenFactsAbout.co.uk

Clippy - Know Your Meme

The History of the Paperclip - Thoughtco.com

The Secret Histories of Clippy, Comic Sans, and Other Legends of Early UI - Gizmodo

Clippy and the History of the Future of Educational Chatbots - HackEducation

Even Early Focus Groups Hated Clippy - The Atlantic

Man Trades Up From Paper Clip to House - AbcNews.com

View Details

While not scientifically proven as a reason why communication and technology fails, there was plenty of evidence in this episode to prove otherwise, including having to record three times.

I'm your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Mercury Retrograde.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and Barry G, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

Mercury | Roman God - Enclyclopedia Brittanica

MERCURY RETROGRADE DATES 2018 - The Farmer’s Almanac

What is Mercury in Retrograde, and Why Do We Blame Things On It? - Mental Floss

Why smart people actually believe Mercury retrograde ruins lives - The New York Post

What does it mean for Mercury to be in retrograde? - Starchild | NASA

How do planets and their moons get their names? - Starchild | NASA

How did Mercury get its name? - Cool Cosmos

MERCURY RETROGRADE AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOU - AstologyZone

Mercury retrograde, explained WITHOUT astrology - Vox Observatory

Mercury and Mythology - European Southern Observatory

Asclepius - Ancient History Encyclopedia

The Craziest Things That Have Happened While Mercury Was Retrograde - Ranker

IsMercuryInRetrograde.com

View Details

I am pleased to have worked with Win from the podcast Ask Win for this episode and I’m going to let her introduce it.

When Win first talked to me about doing an episode in conjunction with Cerebral Palsy Awareness month, which was in March, many of the articles and stories I read were about people with Cerebral Palsy who were amazing athletes competing in the Paralympics. Through that rabbit hole, I discovered Dr. Guttmann and the BBC movie “The Best of Men,” which is an incredible feel-good movie, if you get a chance to watch it.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind The Paralympics.

Special thanks, again to Win from the podcast Ask Win for her introduction and inspiration for this episode. The role of Dr. Ludwig Guttmann was played by Dan Brenic from Netflix ‘N Swill.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To, Jim Collison from The Average Guy Network, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

Paralympics - History of the Movement - Paralympic.org

MOVIE: The Best of Men - Get the movie on iTunes

The Best of Men - IMDb
Paralympics founder Sir Ludwig Guttmann's legacy celebrated in BBC drama - The Telegraph

The World War II Origins of the Paralympic Games - Time

History of the Paralympics - BBC

Stoke Mandeville - the village that gave birth to the Paralympic movement - ITV.com

Brief history of the Paralympic Games: From post-WWII rehabilitation to mega sport event - abc.net.au

The History of the Paralympic Movement - Insidethegames.biz

ABOUT THE PARALYMPICS | PARALYMPIC HISTORY - pbs.org
Sir Ludwig Guttman 1899-1980 "The de Coubertin of the Paralympics" Giovanni XX111 - La Stampa

2012 sees ties between Special Olympics and Paralympics - SpecialOlympics.org

View Details

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----------------------Reverse----------------------

Last year, I released a special episode of The Story Behind April Fool's Day, and with all the practice I've gotten since then of editing podcasts (for myself and others), I wanted to try my hand a remastering an older episode. And this was the perfect one to try today.

Enjoy!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Want to be a part of The Story Behind Book Tour? I’d love to come to your city for bar trivia or game night at your house to meet you and other listeners! If you’re on the Eastern side of the U.S., reach out to me and let me know if that’s something you’d be interested in.

You can email me at Emily@TheStoryBehindPodcast.com or visit TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Contact.

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To, and the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

View Details

If you follow The Story Behind on Instagram, you may have seen our weekend adventure with the family to the factory where today’s sugary-sweet topic is made. We looked at the old uniforms ladies used to wear to dispense the candy, which is funny because the candy already comes in a plastic dispenser to begin with.

Find out the history of this almost 100-year-old treat, including the outlaw in the ‘90s who sold made a Black market for the dispensers. And by the way, there will be details at the end of the show for how you can enter to win a giveaway of today’s topics.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Pez.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Want to be a part of The Story Behind Book Tour? I’d love to come to your city for bar trivia or game night at your house to meet you and other listeners! If you’re on the Eastern side of the U.S., reach out to me and let me know if that’s something you’d be interested in.

You can email me at Emily@TheStoryBehindPodcast.com or visit TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Contact.

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To, and the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

PEZ dispenser in E.T. movie - YouTube

Music for Makers

Sources:

About Us - PEZ.com

This Michigan Farmer Made $4 Million Smuggling Rare Pez Containers into the U.S. - Playboy

The History of PEZ Iconic Candy Dispensers - Candy Favorites

PEZ Candy Animated Movie in the Works - Variety

The Surprising History Behind Pez Candy And Their Iconic Dispensers - LittleThings.com

ALL-TIME 100 Greatest Toys: PEZ Dispenser - Time

PEZ Information - Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia

5 Things You Didn’t Know About the PEZ Dispenser - CNN Money

10 Indispensable Facts about PEZ - Mental Floss

Every Piece of Pez is Made Here - CNN Money

Pez Candy Movie in the Works - The Wrap

Top 10 Most Valuable PEZ Dispensers - eBay

Eduard Haas III - Lemelson.MIT.edu

As a Teenager, the Inventor of PEZ Created One of the World’s First Ready-Made Cake Mixes - Today I Found Out

Quest for the Pez Holy Grail: International Smuggling Meets Father-Son Bonding - Collectors Weekly

Steven Glew’s eBay page

Steven Glew’s Current Blog - PEZ Outlaw Goes to Hollywood

Steven Glew’s Original Blog - PEZ Outlaw

View Details

If you’re listening to this on the day it comes out, beware the Ides of March! That is if you’re Julius Caesar. But in all honesty, I tried looking up the ides of March and, really, when I found out how Romans calculated dates and that they actually counted backward from certain points within the month instead of, you know, sequentially, I gave up and got a slice of today’s topic to celebrate March 14th instead.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Pi(e).

Want to be a part of The Story Behind Book Tour? I’d love to come to your city for bar trivia or game night at your house to meet you and other listeners! If you’re on the Eastern side of the U.S., reach out to me and let me know if that’s something you’d be interested in.

You can email me at Emily@TheStoryBehindPodcast.com or visit TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Contact.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook! Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter. Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To, and the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon! Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

Today Is the 30th Anniversary of Pi Day. Here's What You Should Know About the Irrational Number - Time

History of Pies - The American Pie Council

A Brief History of Pie - Time

How Pie Got Its Sweetness - Slate

What is Pi Day? - History.com

Stop Celebrating Pi Day, And Embrace Tau As The True Circle Constant - The Verge

A Brief History of π - Exploratorium

Archimedes - The Disney Wiki

View Details

For those who don’t know, I am incredibly accident-prone. I’ve never had any sort of grace. In fact, it’s a miracle I’ve never broken any bones. But one thing I do end up with are a lot of cuts and scrapes, and we end up keeping quite a large supply of the topic of today’s episode in the house at all times

From the ubiquitous First-Aid kit staple, to an 80s supergroup, to Penny Lane and her friends in the movie "Almost Famous," the episode is a little all over the place, but don’t worry, I’ll try to “stick” to the topic as much as possible.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Band-Aid.

Check out Heather Welch’s Sunshine Summit, where I will be a guest March 13th, and the summit runs from March 9-16.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Want to find out about The Story Behind book coming soon? Visit http://thestorybehindpodcast.com/book-updates!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To, and the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session. Hope to talk to you soon!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Band-Aid Commercial

Band Aid: The Song That Rocked The World

Almost Famous

Sources:

A History of BAND-AID® Brand Innovation - Band-Aid.com

Congratulations, Earle Dickson, Inventor of the BAND-AID® Brand Adhesive Bandage! - Kilmer House

Band-Aid - MoMA Learning

Without The Boy Scouts, Band-aids Might Not Have Stuck Around - Scouting Magazine

Get Stuck on Band-Aid History - Smithsonian Mag

The Story of the Black Band-Aid - The Atlantic

The History of the Band-Aid - ThoughtCo.com

The Making of Band Aid: Secrets and Stories From the Star-Studded Session - Rolling Stone

Music, Tax & The Prime Minister: How Live Aid Changed The UK And The World - Forbes.com

View Details

One of my favorite movies I feel doesn’t get enough love is Romy & Michele’s High School reunion, starring Mira Sorvino and Lisa Kudrow as two 20-somethings who realize their 10-year high school reunion is coming up and begin to transform their lives so they can go back and impress their former classmates.

They come up with a story of inventing something they think no one will question them on -- this movie came out in 1997, before we all had tiny computers in our pockets to fact check these things. The product they choose is the subject of today’s episode, which, spoiler alert, was not invented by Romy or Michele.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Post-It Notes.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To, and the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

If you’re interested in freshening up your own show or starting a podcast, visit EPodcastProductions.com and use the promo code STORYBEHIND for $25 off a Strategy Session.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Romy & Michele’s High School Reunion

Mira Sorvino Meets (And Apologizes To) The Real Inventor Of The Post-It - Huff Post Live

Sources:

Post-it Notes Were Invented By Accident - Today I Found Out

Who Invented Post-Its? - Wonderopolis

History Timeline: Post-it® Notes - 3M

Post-It Note - ThoughtCo.com

Post-it® Note - MoMA Learning

9 Things Invented or Discovered by Accident - How Stuff Works

The 'Hallelujah Moment' Behind The Invention Of The Post-it Note - CNN

History - 3M

Post-it Brand Celebrates 35 Years of Helping Great Ideas Take Shape - 3M

We Asked the Inventor of Post-its About 'Romy & Michele's High School Reunion' - Vice

How a Failed Experiment Led to One of the Best-Selling Products of All Time - Inc.

Why 3M's Marketing Sticks With Millennials and DIY'ers - Mashable

Positive Post-It Day - Cyberbullying Research Center

View Details

Today’s topic came about in 1928, and in the span of time since then, many things have been said to be the greatest thing since its invention. The more I read about it, and how easy it made people’s lives, the more I realize the idiom about how great it is isn’t too far off the mark.

Because of this topic, sandwiches were made faster, toasters increased in sales and became a common wedding present, and breakfasts became easier to make on the fly.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Sliced Bread.

The snippet from Time Magazine was read by Harriet Morris from the podcast Eating Coach, and who is, funnily enough, working with me to help me make healthier choices that don’t always include sliced bread.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To, and newest Executive Producers, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

Otto Rohwedder and the Evolution of Sliced Bread - American History USA

How Sliced Bread Became the 'Greatest Thing' - Time

Otto Frederick Rohwedder - Lemelson-MIT

The History of Toast - Today I Found Out

Bread-slicing Machine - The National Museum of American History

A Brief History of Sliced Bread - Mental Floss

Pre-sliced Bread Was Once Banned In The United States - Today I Found Out

Who Made That Sliced Bread? - The New York Times Magazine

How the Phrase 'The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread' Originated - The Atlantic

Stuff of Genius: Otto Rohwedder: Bread-Slicing Machine - HowStuffWorks

Is It OK to Store Bread in the Fridge? - Chowhound

View Details

Hey there! Remember me? Yup, The Story Behind is finally back after a hiatus I did not expect would be as long as it has.

Here’s the short version of what happened and why it was so long, and I promise this has everything to do with today’s topic. I started editing and writing show notes for other podcasts on the side before I found out in October that I was going to be let go from my full-time job.

When I found that out, it was the week I was gearing up for episode 100, so on top of learning a musical number, I also made the decision to turn helping people with their podcasts into a full-time business in the new year. So, I spent the majority of my time creating E Podcast Productions, and if you’re interested in learning more about that, you can visit the website at EPodcastProductions.com, but you’re here to learn some history, right?

Besides for those who are new to The Story Behind and are listening to the back catalog, it’s like I never left. Although, none of this would be possible had it not been for the subject of today’s episode.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Pink Slip.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To (also, congratulations to Jeremy on his engagement to Deana Marie from the Twisted Philly podcast!), and newest Executive Producers, the North Omaha History Podcast and Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting.

I also want to offer my deepest condolences to the family of former executive producer Scott Smith from the Recovering from Religion podcast who is no longer with us.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Grease - The Race Scene

Sources:

What the Hell is a Pink Slip, Really? - Esquire

Definition of 'Pink Slip' - Economic Times

Where Did the Term "Pink Slip" Originate? - Mental Floss

How to Change Vehicle Ownership - CA.gov

Curator Asks for `Pink Slip' - The Baltimore Sun

Etymology of Pink Slip - Snopes

A Passion For Pink Slips - The Atlantic

Following the Trail of the Elusive Pink Slip - Los Angeles Times

Definition of “Pink Slip Party” - Investopedia

Labor Force Statistics from the Current Population Survey - Bureau of Labor Statics

Hazel Dawn, Stage Actress, Is Dead at 98 - The New York Times

View Details

Warning: If you usually listen to this podcast at a faster speed, singing will be used and this might be a good time to slow your podcast player down.

If you’ve been with me from the very beginning, you know every so often I like to thrown in a little singing now and then. I try to deny being a theater person, but I secretly am. The theater bug bites me every so often and I want to be in a show again. And not just any show. I was brought up listening to Rodgers & Hammerstein, singing along with Julie Andrews and Bernadette Peters, and had it not been for my lack of grace when it comes to dancing, I probably would have pursued it more. But, now that I have a podcast, and I wanted to celebrate the 100 episodes by doing something special, and no one has to see my bad coordination.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind: The Musical!

Originally, I had a song for this episode’s promo, but I decided to record this straight instead. I just wanted to thank everyone who has supported the show. I’m really proud of not only making it to 100 episodes, but also the one year anniversary of The Story Behind. And many of you have been there from the beginning. Thank you for joining the The Story Behind Facebook Group, Liking the Story Behind Facebook page, following @storybehindpod on Twitter and Instagram, becoming executive producers by supporting the show on Patreon.com, sending notes, emails, DMs of encouragement, retweeting, commenting, telling your friends … really, you guys are the lifeblood of this podcast to keep it going. There’s going to be some exciting things planned for this podcast and myself and I can’t wait to share it with you all. So here’s to another 100 and another year of The Story Behind.

Oh, and if you’re an executive producer of The Story Behind, you can hear the original song I recorded for the promo by going to Patreon.com/TheStoryBehind.

LYRICS

This is the story all about the modern major musical
The history’s quite large and certain facts might be disputable
It started back in Greece where many theaters were acoustical
The middle ages brought them back with church and tra-ve-ling minstrels
The 17- and 18-hundreds’ shows were quite satirical
Though op-er-a quite serious the musicals were comical
The views expressed may not have always suited those imperial
But entertainment wins and they continued to be fash’niable.

With names like Strauss and Offenbach they spread fast geographical
They hit the U.S.A. and folks enjoyed a bit of Vaud-eh-ville
The history’s quite large and certain facts might be disputable
This is the story all about the modern major musical

Burlesque, we will not cover because this podcast is for all ears
But just to note this was a part of musicals for several years
Extravaganzas, Pantomimes and farces were all met with cheers
The theater thrived and fattened wallets of investing financiers
Broadway emerged as the grand force to rule all things theatrical
And stage revues like Zeigfeild’s Follies drew crowds international
In 1919 unions forced their contracts with a picket line
The ‘20s saw Cole Porter, Hart and Rodgers and then Hammerstein

The Great Depression didn’t keep the musicals from going down
But actors moved out west to Hollywood for movies now with sound
The history’s quite large and certain facts might be disputable
This is the story all about the modern major musical

The people went to movies to escape thoughts of the second war
The musicals were loved and records flew off shelves at music stores
The decades passed and rock and roll soon stepped on music theater’s toes
But Sondheim came and introduced the people to his concept shows
The trend revived and musicals came back strong like they were before
The audiences clamored for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s epic scores
And now our favorite movies-turned-to-musicals all do quite well
And history has sold out crowds with R&B by Lin-Manuel.

For episode 100 I came up with doing musicals
I hope you learned a bit and all my rhymes weren’t inexcusable
The history’s quite large and certain facts might be disputable
This is the story all about the modern major musical!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, and newest Executive Producer, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

Musicals On Stage: A Capsule History - Musicals101.com

Broadway & Hollywood - PBS.org

Screen 1940's I: Warners, Goldwyn & Paramount - Musicals101.com

History of The Musical Stage The 1930s I: Great Songwriting Teams - Musicals101.com

A History of The Musical European Operetta: 1850-1880 - Musicals101.com

History of The Musical Stage 1920s: "Keep the Sun Smilin' Through" - Musicals101.com

Modern Major General Lyrics - ThoughtCo.com

View Details

I made the mistake of researching and writing this episode with my 6-year-old daughter next to me. And at 8:30 in the morning, the pictures of the familiar orange and yellow wrappers on screen proved to be the catalyst for a 20-minute session of her begging to have the subject of today’s episode for breakfast.

And, really, as someone who has made her share of bad breakfast decisions, it seemed hypocritical of me to deny her. Besides, it has 5 grams of protein, so it’s basically healthy, right?

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Related Episode: The Story Behind Peanut Butter | Cheap, Easy and Worth Fighting For (TSB006)

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, and newest Executive Producer, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

VIDEO: Reese's Peanut Butter Cups Commercial (1972)

VIDEO: Family Guy - Officer Reeses

Music for Makers

Sources:

The History Of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups - Today I Found Out

Reese's Peanut Butter Cups To Be Discontinued? - Snopes.Com

Watch Gal Gadot Try A Reese's Peanut Butter Cup For Her Very First Time - Today.Com

The Fascinating Rise Of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups - Businessinsider.Com

11 Delicious Facts About Reese’s - Mental Floss

King Kup Candies v. HB Reese Candy Company, 134 F. Supp. 463 (M.D. Pa. 1955) - Law.Justia.com

Was It Hershey Or Reese That Made Peanut Butter Cups Great? - Atlasobscura.Com

7 Things You Need To Know Before Eating Reese's Pieces - Delish.com

Officer Reeses - Family Guy Wikia

View Details

I should probably apologize in advance for today’s topic, since last week’s episode The Story Behind Lollipops got Shirley Temple and The Chordettes stuck in the heads of a few listeners. I promise I won’t play the theme song to the candy bar I’ll be talk about in this episode, but if it gets stuck in your head anyway, you’re not alone. A poll from the University of Cincinnati proved that the Gimme a Break jingle was one of the most common earworm. And probably just by saying that catchphrase, you already know what this episode is about.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Kit Kat.

Thank you to my coworkers who willingly volunteered to be my guinea pigs to try the different flavored Kit Kats. Thanks, also, to listener Amie for telling me I could buy Japanese Kit Kats on Amazon, and to Stephen Jondrew from Better Podcasting and GonnaGeek.com for sending me pictures of Canadian Kit Kats last minute.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, and newest Executive Producer, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

Japan's love of Kit Kat - CBS Sunday Morning

Kit Kat - Nestle.com

BOOK: Club life of London By John Timbs

VIDEO: 10 Things You Never Knew About Kit Kat - Geobeats

Kit Kat Was Unable to Trademark the Four-Fingered Candy Bar Shape - The Daily Meal

What You Don’t Know About Kit Kat Bars - Spoon University

Revealed: What REALLY goes in between Kit Kat's crispy wafers - DailyMail.co.uk

How the KitKat became a phenomenon in Japan - The Telegraph

How Did the Kit Kat Candy Bar Get It's Name? - Culinary Lore

View Details

I thought I knew the story behind this candy bar before researching it, but it turns out, there was more layers to this story than I originally thought. You know how in Shrek, there’s the line “Ogres are like onions,” equating their personalities with that of the layers in an onion? Well, the story behind this episode’s topic is broken down into layers, as well, which is convenient since the candy bar, itself, is layered with nougat, peanuts, caramel and finally chocolate.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Baby Ruth.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, and newest Executive Producer, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

BABY RUTH CANDY BARS ACTUALLY WERE NAMED AFTER BABE RUTH - Today I Found Out

Was the Baby Ruth candy bar named after Ruth Cleveland? - Snopes.Com

Nestle may boot Baby Ruth, Butterfinger - USAToday

Otto Y. Schnering (1891-1953) - ImmigrantEntrepreneurship.org

Baby Ruth® - NestleUSA.com

Babe Ruth v. Baby Ruth - History.com

The 13 Most Influential Candy Bars of All Time - Time.com

View Details

From Egyptians eating honey on sticks to today’s modern-day confections, this subject of this episode is kicking off a series that will hopefully lead us into Halloween with a sweet twist.

Just to warn you, there are some ear worms in this episode, so take my advice and if you happen to get a song stuck in your head, as I have since researching it, sing a Queen song. That always helps me.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Lollipops.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, and newest Executive Producer, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

VIDEO: Shirley Temple - On The Good Ship Lollipop

VIDEO: Lollipop - The Chordettes

VIDEO: Tootsie Pop Commercial

Sources:

The History of Lollipop Candy - CandyFavorites.com

History of Lollipops - CandyHistory.net

New Haven Gives the Lollipop its Name – Today in History: October 13 - ConnecticutHistory.org

10 fabulous facts about lollipops on National Lollipop Day - aol.com

The Origins of Lollipops - ThoughtCo.com

A Brief History of the “Lollipop.” - HistorySpaces.com

Read about the history and origins of the lollipop - SpanglerCandy.com

Legend of the Shooting Star - Tootsie.com

Indian on the Tootsie Roll Wrapper - Snopes.com

Salvador Dalí Designed the Chupa Chups Logo - Mental Floss

View Details

Every fall and spring, my husband and I buy the topic of today’s episode by the case for our allergies. And with a new baby in the house, we’ve been buying even more. We have a box in almost every room in the house. We most likely take them for granted, until we run out that is.

In this episode, we’ll look at the original, non-disposable version used for centuries through the more recent invention most of us know and use today.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Tissues.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and Barry G, Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys, and newest Executive Producer, Jeremy Collins from Podcasts We Listen To.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

History of Kleenex Tissue - Thoughtco.com

William Shakespeare's 'Othello': What Is The Meaning & Symbolism Of The Handkerchief Scene? - arogundade.com

Chic or Passé? The Fabulous History of the Humble Handkerchief - BonjourParis.com

Handkerchief History - HankerchiefHeroes.com

The History of This: Handkerchiefs - The Crossing Guide

The History of a Lady’s Handkerchief - Bobby Pin Blog

Handkerchiefs - Encyclopedia of Fashion

Kleenex Product Info - Kleenex.com

VIDEO: LITTLE LULU Kleenex commercial (from PERRY COMO SHOW 1959-01-17)

Cursed Kleenex Commercial - Know Your Meme

View Details

From crime dramas to magic acts to "50 Shades of Grey," today’s topic is known around the world, although there are restrictions in place depending on the country about how a person is displayed with them. France, for example, prohibits the media from showing pictures of people with them until they’ve been convicted. Those being restrained with the device in Hong Kong are offered head coverings for anonymity. And in Japan, a person’s hands may be blurred in photographs if they’re wearing them.

Normally when I have to make a disclaimer for episodes, they involve content that may not be suitable for all ages. But this episode’s disclaimer is a bit different. So here it goes: The content you’re about to hear is intended for educational purposes. The Story Behind does not endorse any use of this information to evade law enforcement or commit illegal acts.

Are you intrigued yet?

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Handcuffs.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn more about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast. and newest executive producers, Barry G. and Nick and Justin from Epic Film Guys.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

The History Of Handcuffs - United Locksmith

Brief History of Handcuffs - Police Supply Blog

DOCUMENTARY: Houdini: Unlocking the Mysteries

Handcuff Escapes - Mallusionist

Cop = Constable on Patrol? - Snopes

Baltimore Police Handcuffs Restraints - Baltimore City Police History

How to Escape from Handcuffs - WikiHow

A HISTORY OF HANDCUFFS - TIHK.co

View Details

Get a taste for The Story Behind by listening to the promo above.

If you're the host of another podcast and would like to play it on your show, by all means, go right ahead.

Download here or watch below.

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Usually I grab inspiration for my episodes from random instances during my week when I take a moment and wonder the history behind things we may take for granted. Well, this week, I went to the dentist and while I was in the chair, getting my teeth cleaned, I began wondering about this week’s topic.

And, I’m getting a crown put in on Thursday, so there’s a possibility I’ll come up with even more dental-themed topics for the near future, just to warn you.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Toothbrush.

The role of Horace Miner was played by Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast, and if you happen to be looking for a new toothbrush, Adam and his cohost Bryon have a promo code for a free Quip toothbrush refill by going to tryquip.com/ehap.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn more about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, and newest Executive Producer, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

Who Invented The Toothbrush And When Was It Invented? - Everyday Mysteries

The History Of The Toothbrush: From 5000 Bc To Present - Huffington Post

When Did Americans Begin Brushing Their Teeth? - Grapevine Dental Care

Ever Wondered How People Cleaned Their Teeth Before They Had Toothbrushes? - Washington Post

Do Animals Need To Brush Their Teeth Like Humans? - Science Abc

Do Any Other Species Practise Dental Care? - The Naked Scientists

Crocodile Myths #1 - The Curious Trochilus - Croc Blog

Plover-crocodile Relationship - Ask A Biologist

Who Made That Toothbrush? - The New York Times

William Addis, And The Story Of The Modern Toothbrush - Georgian Gentleman

About Us - Wisdom Toothbrushes

The Ad That Created A Habit! - Building Pharma Brands

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If you’re listening to this the week it comes out, I’m going to break away from the usual format of the show to editorialize that this was a tough week, no? Sunday night, 59 people were killed and more than 520 people were injured when a gunman shot at a group of 22,000 concert-goers from 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. This is now the deadliest mass shooting in recent history.

Monday morning was not only a day of somber mourning, head shaking, anger, and grief. But breaking through all the bleakness, were people like Chris who hosts Faces and Aces Las Vegas, Tweeting updates and how others can help. And in The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook, I wanted to thank everyone who shared their stories and memories they have from Vegas: Scott, Jarrod, Hannah, Mona, Ro, Glenn and Jessica.

It may seem weird to try to do an episode about a whole city, and I will be the first to admit that I can never fully do it justice. But the more I thought about this bright, bustling city in the middle of a desert, the more interested I became in its history.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Las Vegas.

Listen to Faces & Aces LV's most recent episode #VegasStrong: http://www.facesandaceslv.com/vegasstrong/

Learn more about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, and newest Executive Producer, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

Las Vegas - History.com

BOOK: Gambling in America: An Encyclopedia of History, Issues, and Society By William N. Thompson Ph.D.

DOCUMENTARY: The Real History of Las Vegas : Documentary on Las Vegas's Unconventional History

9 Things You May Not Know About Bugsy Siegel - History.com

Las Vegas Records and Firsts - Vegas Today and Tomorrow

Divorce Capital: Six-week Split Spurred Nevada Economy - Las Vegas Review Journal

Atomic Tests Were a Tourist Draw in 1950s Las Vegas - CityLab.com

How Did Las Vegas Get Its Name? - San Diego State University

History of Las Vegas - lvol.com

LAS VEGAS THEN & NOW - LasVegasNevada.gov

What is the Wash? - lvwash.org

Designer Who Created the Iconic 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' Sign Has Died - TIME

To Betty Willis, Las Vegas was forever ‘Fabulous’ - Las Vegas Sun

Do’s and Don’ts for the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign - LasVegas.Com

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Anyone who grew up in the ‘80s and ‘90s in America probably remember the commercials during Saturday morning cartoons showing the subject of today’s episode. These giant beast machines were jumping over buses, crushing cars, and coming to a coliseum near you. Even if you’ve never been to a show, the iconic voice behind day of the week many events took place is sure to dig up some memories.

"SUNDAY, SUNDAY, SUNDAY!"

Well, actually, this episode is set to release on a Monday

"Oh, OK ... MONDAY, MONDAY, MONDAY!"

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Monster Trucks.

The role of the Monster Truck announcer was played by Mat from The One Word, Go! Show, who is also one of The Story Behind Executive Producers.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn more about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel, and newest Executive Producer, Adam from Everyone Has a Podcast.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

Bob Chandler - Bigfoot4x4.com

Evolution of Monster Jam Press Kit - feldmotorsportonline.com

The History of Monster Trucks - The Newswheel

History of Grave Digger - MonsterJam.com

VIDEO: The Youngest Female Monster Truck Driver Builds Her Own Rides

'We Crush The Cars': Inside The Monster Truck Arena - NPR

Interesting Facts about Monster Trucks - SCSGearbox

Monster Truck Mamas - Slate

Meet the 19-Year-Old Student Who Builds Monster Trucks - Mental Floss

Keeping Up with the Country’s Youngest Female Monster-Truck Driver - The New Yorker

A Final Farewell To 'Mr. Sunday! Sunday! Sunday!' - NPR

Jan Gabriel, 1941-2010: No More Sundays - Jalopnik

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THE FOLLOWING AUDIO HAS BEEN CORRECTED: Christopher Lydon, not Dave Lydon, is known as the first voice to be released as a downloadable MP3 on an RSS feed in 2003.

Everyone has a story about how they discovered podcasts and on Saturday, Sept. 30, you can celebrate your love of podcasts on International Podcast Day.

How can you celebrate? Send an email or a Tweet to your favorite podcast to let them know you enjoy their work. Find new podcasts to listen to. Tell your friends and family about podcasts they might enjoy and, more importantly, show them how to listen.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Podcasts.

Special thanks to Dave Jackson from SchoolofPodcasting.com, Daniel J. Lewis from TheAudacitytoPodcast.com, and Rob Walch from Libsyn.com and Podcast411 for their help with this episode.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn more about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Two Peas on a Podcast, newest Executive Producer Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

MOVIE: The Messengers: A Podcast Documentary

Podcasting Historical Timeline And Milestones - International Podcast Day

The Podcast Consumer 2017 - Edison Research

A Podcast by any other name is still a.. - podCast411

Audible Revolution - The Guardian

The Podcast Revolution - Harvard Gazette

What is RSS? And why you MUST own yours – TAP167 - TheAudacitytoPodcast.com

PODCAST: The History of Podcasting - TechStuff

Oxford Dictionary Names “Podcast” 2005 Word of the Year - Wired

The MP3: A History Of Innovation And Betrayal - NPR

Virtual Bandwidth by Dave Winer - archive.is

'I Felt Like Morse Tapping His First Code' – The Man Who Invented The Podcast - The Guardian

MTV v Curry - loundy.com

Adam Curry Caught in Sticky Wiki - Archive.is

“Serial”: The Podcast We’ve Been Waiting For - The New Yorker

Apple Launches Podcasts App for iOS 5.1 and Later - MacStories

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As I’m recording this episode, it’s a few hours before I usually publish. In fact, I wrote this episode only hours ago from scratch. Did you ever have one of those weekends when you knew you had to do something -- in my case, write Monday’s episode -- and for some reason, other things came along and distracted you? That was me. Things like wanting to relax after work on Friday instead of writing, or deciding to finally put away a load of laundry, to writing Thursday’s episode instead, to helping a friend with his podcast.

Basically, I waited until my husband was out of the house and my son was taking a nap to finally get around to writing this episode. And I decided to go with a topic that reflected my weekend.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Procrastination.

Learn more about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Recommended Podcasts for Productivity: The Productive Woman and Beyond the To-Do List

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane and Denise from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, Gerald and Andy from Two Peas on a Podcast, and newest Executive Producer Bandrew Scott from The Bandrew Says Podcast and Podcastage YouTube Channel.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

VIDEO: Gather ye rosebuds while ye may (Dead poets society)

Sources:

Procrastination Through the Ages: A Brief History of Wasting Time - Mental Floss

Getting Over Procrastination - The New Yorker

Pro·cras·ti·na·tion - Slate

A Historical View of Procrastination - Psychology Today

How Procrastination Changed the World - MakeUseOf

Carpe Diem - The Phrase Finder

Man Who Said The World Is Ending Saturday Changed His Mind. It Isn't Actually Ending. - USA Today

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If you haven’t looked at the title of this episode yet, let me give you a little quiz of your musical knowledge to help introduce today’s topic.

What does these things have in common? The Pretenders’ brass, Perry Como’s falling star, Natasha Bedingfield’s sunshine, Alanis Morissette's hand, and P-Money’s cash? They’re all kept in the subject of this episode.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Pockets.

The role of Harry Houdini was played by Brian Earl from the podcast, Illusion.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn more about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online, and newest executive producer, Two Peas on a Podcast!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

The Weird Complicated Sexist History of Pockets - Mic.com

BOOK: The Right Way to Do Wrong by Harry Houdini

Crime in Oliver Twist - British Library

I Demand Pocket Equality - Jezebel

How Pickpockets Work - How Stuff Works

Apollo Robbins - ApolloRobbins.com

A Pickpocket’s Tale - The New Yorker

Pockets - Love to Know

Big iPhone 6 Bulges in All the Wrong Places - New York Times

World’s Use of Pockets - New York Times

A History of Pockets - Victoria and Albert Museum

The Gender Politics of Pockets - The Atlantic

Why Women's Pockets Are Useless: A History - Marketplace.com

The Politics of Pockets - Racked.com

View Details

The following contains subject matter that may not be appropriate for younger listeners or anyone with any sort of fear of clowns. Listener discretion is advised.

I was wrong when I thought my days of referencing Tim Curry were over when I finished up The Story behind Clue Series. But with the release of IT in September of 2017 came shattered box office records and a majority of my favorite podcasts talking about the new version with Bill Skarsgard in the title role. But as a kid, I knew the 1990 version after my dad bet me $10 I couldn’t sit through the made-for-TV version starring Tim Curry. And, weirdly, Stephen King’s IT became probably one of my favorite horror films and Pennywise became an icon in the world of scary movie monsters.

The Stephen King novel the movies are based on is looked at as one of the pivotal moments the subject of today’s episode went from a character bringing happiness and laughter to a character that it’s said 42 percent of Americans are afraid of.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Clowns.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn more about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Linguist Sam, Diane from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net, Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts, and Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

VIDEO: Stephen King Interview about IT and Pennywise Inspiration - Frostmare TV

Sources:

The History and Psychology of Clowns Being Scary - Smithsonian Mag

Hospital clown images 'too scary' - BBC

History of Clowns - Clown Bluey

Hamlet: Summary: Act V, scene i - SparkNotes

Scaramouche - Encyclopædia Britannica

Grimaldi the Clown - Victoria and Albert Museum

The Memoirs of Joseph Grimaldi - The Public Domain Review

Jean-Gaspard Deburau - Encyclopædia Britannica

John Wayne Gacy (Murderer) - Biography.com

IT - StephenKing.com

Stephen King Discusses How He Came Up With The Idea Of Pennywise - ComicBook.com

Americans Are More Afraid Of Clowns Than Climate Change, Terrorism, And ... Death - VOX

Thanks To Creepy Clowns, Ronald McDonald Is Lying Low - Huffington Post

Why You Shouldn’t Panic About This Year’s ‘Clown Panic’ - People

A Psychologist Explains Why Clowns Are So Scary - New York Post

The Force reawakens deceased cast — probably for years to come - Washington Times

View Details

Here in New England where I live, the fall is probably the most loved season. The leaves change, it gets a bit cooler, and nothing sounds better than being cozy warm in a cable knit sweater. It all sounds very calm and serene, doesn’t it? But there’s an underlying current to the first few hints at fall.

We know it’s coming, we just don’t know when. That beverage that’s supposed to be reminiscent of comfort food to be enjoyed by a warmth hearth. But then, the craziness takes over.

All of a sudden, people start posting memes of it with young women dressed in leggings and UGG boots holding this seasonal beverage, while real women in leggings and UGG boots are hashtag-self-aware-don’t-care about posting their own photos of them with today’s topic.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Pumpkin Spice Latte.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Learn more about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill, and newest Executive Procucers Jarrod Dunham from TheHistoryphile.net and Heather Welch from Sunshine and PowerCuts.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Proud supporter of #PodernFamily, #HumanitiesPodcasts & #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

The Dark And Murky History Of Pumpkin Spice - The Chicagoist

Thanksgiving 2010 Myths and Facts - National Geographic

6 Thanksgiving Myths, Share Them With Someone You Know - Indian Country Today

First Thanksgiving Meal - History.com

Peter Dukes Shares the Story Behind Starbucks First Pumpkin Spice Latte - Starbucks.com

Invention of the Caffe Latte - Caffe Mediterreaneum

Photos: Goodbye to Berkeley’s iconic Caffe Med - Berkeleyside

Was ‘The Graduate’ really filmed at Caffe Mediterraneum? - SFGate

Historic Caffe Mediterraneum Dead at 60; Berkeleyans Mourn, Struggle to Maintain Coffeehouse Ties - Berkeley Reporter

Pumpkin Spice Latte, the Drink That Almost Wasn’t - The Wall Street Journal

The History of the Pumpkin Spice Latte - The Spoon

New Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Products Coming Exclusively To Grocery Locations - Starbucks.com

View Details

Welcome to The Story Behind: Clue Series. In every episode of this series, we talk about the history of one of the original weapons used in the game, “Clue.” This series may not be appropriate for all ages and listener discretion is advised.

This is the final episode of The Story Behind Clue Series. I hope you’ve all enjoyed talking about the weapons in the classic game, as well as talking about the 1985 movie. In this episode, we’re going back to the very beginning to talk about the game, itself.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Clue: The Game.

Learn more about Podcast Share at PodcastShare.net or by following @PodcastShare on Twitter.

The Clue Series Butler you heard at the beginning of the episode was played by Paul from Rick and Paul Heal the World.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page at patreon.com/thestorybehind: Stargate Pioneer from GonnaGeek.com, Mat from the One Word, Go! Show, Sam Dunn, Diane from History Goes Bump, Scott Smith from Recovering from Religion, and newest Executive Producer Dan Brenic from Netflix N’ Swill.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

"Dance of Deception" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

"Happy Happy Game Show" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Music for Makers

Sources:

Clue & Cluedo - The Big Game Hunter

Get a Cluedo: The Wonderful Story of Everyone's Favorite Mystery Game - Mental Floss

How One British Soldier Turned a Parlor Game into Clue - Mental Floss

5 Classic Board Games With Disturbing Origin Stories - Cracked.com

The Clue Game History on Parker Brothers Letterhead - 1994 - The Art of Murder

Photographs of Anthony Pratt's Grave - The Art of Murder

How to Win at Clue (Cluedo) - The Spruce

Clue Versions - USAopoly

Hasbro Updates Clue With New Characters, Weapons - New York Daily News

View Details

Welcome to The Story Behind: Clue Series. In every episode of this series, we talk about the history of one of the original weapons used in the game, “Clue.” This series may not be appropriate for all ages and listener discretion is advised.

This is the second-to-last episode of The Story Behind Clue Series. Since we’re out of weapons to talk about, let’s shift our attention to the movie I’ve gotten tons of clips from. And I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has sent in clips for the series -- I had a lot of fun putting these episodes together.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Clue: The Movie.

The Clue Series Butler you heard at the beginning of the episode was played by Paul from Rick and Paul Heal the World.

The role of Roger Ebert was played by Adam Higgins from Odd Dad Out and Mom & Dad Cuss a Little.

Singing telegram imitation provided by Amy from Ladies Love Paul Rudd.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

This show is brought to you by the executive producers, who support the show through Patreon at patreon.com/TheStoryBehind.

Media:

"Dance of Deception" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

"Happy Happy Game Show" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Music for Makers

VIDEO: His Girl Friday Bribery Scene

Sources:

Clue Movie Review & Film Summary (1985) | Roger Ebert

Clue stage adaptation to tour in 2018 - Entertainment Weekly

The Real Reason The Clue Remake Is A Big Deal - Nerdist

The Crazy Story Of How "Clue" Went From Forgotten Flop To Cult Triumph - Buzzfeed

From Board Game To Movie Bomb To Cult Classic: 30 Things You Didn’t Know About Clue - VH1

View Details

Welcome to The Story Behind: Clue Series. In every episode of this series, we talk about the history of one of the original weapons used in the game, “Clue.” This series may not be appropriate for all ages and listener discretion is advised.

I had to save the knife for last in this series because there’s just so much information about them, and I’m only able to barely touch the surface of the full story behind this particular weapon. I can say, however, that the other weapons in this series like the revolver and the rope are actually better choices when it comes to MURDER (lighting). But, for the sake of suspension of disbelief in playing the game and watching the movie Clue, let’s ignore the fact that if you’re stabbed you have a 96 percent chance of survival, shall we?

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind The Knife.

The Clue Series Butler you heard at the beginning of the episode was played by Paul from Rick and Paul Heal the World.

The role of Galvarino was played by Stephen Jondrew from GonnaGeek.com.

Mrs. Peacock imitations provided by CeCe from Sincerely Yours and Amy from Ladies Love Paul Rudd.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

This show is brought to you by the executive producers, who support the show through Patreon at patreon.com/TheStoryBehind.

Media:

"Dance of Deception" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

"Happy Happy Game Show" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Music for Makers

Sources:

Knife History - The Knife Connection

Clue Movie Props - therpf.com

Penetrating cardiac injuries: a population-based study. - US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health

Role of diagnostic techniques in the initial evaluation of stab wounds to the anterior abdomen, back, and flank. - US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health

How likely are you to survive a stab wound? - Wound Care Society

Fighting knives used by British commandos and SOE during WW2 - Gothia Arms Historical Society

Debunking strange Asian myths: Part II - Japan Times

BOOK: Muslims in the Western Imagination By Sophia Rose Arjana

In Asia, do people scoop the brains out of a monkey's skull and eat them? - Straight Dope

Galvarino, the Mapuche Warrior with Knives for Hands - Mental Floss

Galvarino – The No-handed Mapuche Warrior - TodayIFoundOut.com

Discovery Points to Earlier Arrival of First Americans - National Geographic

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In 1966, the Beatles played their friend Klaus Voorman their song “Tomorrow Never Knows” while Voorman went to work sketching what would become the cover to the band’s next album, which I referenced in The Story Behind Imagine (by John Lennon). This album contained the songs “Taxman,” “Eleanor Rigby,” and “Good Day, Sunshine,” and was almost called After Geography. This suggestion was Ringo Starr’s idea of a pun based on the Rolling Stones releasing Aftermath. Get it? After-geography? After-math? Like a high school schedule.

Luckily, the band went with a very to-the-point title that referenced what the record, itself, does when being played. But that’s neither Here, There or Everywhere when it comes to the game and movie Clue. We’re here to talk about the weapon used for MURDER.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind The Revolver.

The Clue Series Butler you heard at the beginning of the episode was played by Paul from Rick and Paul Heal the World.

Professor Plum imitations provided by Amy from Ladies Love Paul Rudd. If you’d like to add your voice to the podcast, join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook to be notified when I’m looking for guest voices for the show.

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page: Stargate Pioneer, Mat from the One Word Go Show, Sam Dunn, and History Goes Bump! Thank you for your support!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Take the #2PodsADay Challenge! Visit 2PodsADay.wordpress.com or follow @2PodsADay on Twitter.

Media:

"Dance of Deception" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

"Happy Happy Game Show" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Music for Makers

Sources:

Beatles' 'Revolver': 15 Things You Didn't Know - Rolling Stone

Samuel Colt - History.com

Colt 45 - Pabst Brewing Company

Clue - Internet Movie Firearms Database

10 Things You May Not Know About Samuel Colt - History.com

How the Colt Single Action Army Revolver Won the West - Popular Mechanics

Colt .45 Peacemaker - Guns Magazine

Are We Stuck in the 1950s? - Psychology Today

VA Psychologists and Clinical Science in the 1950s - American Psychological Association

Humanism - Simply Psychology

View Details

Welcome to The Story Behind: Clue Series. In every episode of this series, we talk about the history of one of the original weapons used in the game, “Clue.” This series may not be appropriate for all ages and listener discretion is advised. And now, I present your host.

The weapon we’re talking about in this episode is probably the most ubiquitous of the Clue weapons. While its original intent may have been for utility purposes, the number of ways it could be used for MURDER range from strangling to hanging to the medieval method of being hanged, drawn and quartered.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind The Rope.

The Clue Series Butler you heard at the beginning of the episode was played by Paul from Rick and Paul Heal the World.

Mrs. White imitations provided by Chris, Emily Kendall and Michael from Redemption – A Star Wars actual-play podcast.; Jennifer Pratt, who will be coming out with a science fiction podcast soon; and Amy Pascale from Ladies Love Paul Rudd and part of the hashtag #LadyPodSquad group on Facebook and Twitter, which any lady-podcaster can join and talk with other women about all-things podcasting.

This episode was brought to you by The Story Behind Executive Producers who support the show through the Patreon Page: Stargate Pioneer, Mat from the One Word Go Show, Sam Dunn, and History Goes Bump! Thank you for your support!

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Take the #2PodsADay Challenge! Visit 2PodsADay.wordpress.com or follow @2PodsADay on Twitter.

Other Episodes referred to: The Story Behind Lucky Numbers

Media:

"Dance of Deception" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

"Happy Happy Game Show" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Music for Makers

Sources:

How does death by hanging work? - How Stuff Works

History of Rope - Southern Ropes

Jump Rope History - The Jump Rope Institute

Book: The Modern Wonder Book of Knowledge

The Twisted History of the Noose - The Daily Beast

Drawing and Quartering - Encyclopedia Britannica

What Do "Drawn and Quartered" and "Keelhauling" Mean? - The Straight Dope

‘Feminist Coup’: Clue, The Game, Kills Off Mrs. White, Replaces Her With Female Scientist - Washington Post

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Welcome to The Story Behind: Clue Series. In every episode of this series, we talk about the history of one of the original weapons used in the game, “Clue.” This series may not be appropriate for all ages and listener discretion is advised.

What can you say about this weapon? While not as useful as the rope or as destructive as the knife, it’s definitely a staple in any tool box … and also the perfect tool for MURDER. To quote Laugh-In’s Judy Carne, Socket to me!

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Wrench.

The Clue Series Butler you heard at the beginning of the episode was played by Paul from Rick and Paul Heal the World.

Colonel Mustard imitations provided by Chris, Emily Kendall and Michael from Redemption – A Star Wars actual-play podcast.

The role of Colonel Greene was played by David the Producer from The Unwritable Rant.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Take the #2PodsADay Challenge! Visit 2PodsADay.wordpress.com or follow @2PodsADay on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Sources:

The History of Hardware Tools - ThoughtCo.

Jack Johnson's Monkey Wrench - Snopes

About Us - AllenHex.com

Question of the Month: Jack Johnson and the Wrench - Jim Crowe Museum

Update: Jack Johnson and The Wrench - The Black History Channel

Robert Owen, Inventor of the Ratchet Wrench (Double Acting Wrench) - Little Cities Archive+

Double-Acting Wrench Patent

Charles Monk, Monkey Wrenches and a "Monkey on a Stick" - a Gripping History and Etymology of "Monkey Wrench" - Early Sports and Pop Culture History Blog

What is the Difference between a Monkey Wrench and a Pipe Wrench? - DoItYourself.com

Book: A History of 100 Years of Valve Manufacturing - The Story of the Walworth

Company, Inc. Oldest Manufacturer of Valve and Fittings in the United States

Pipe Wrenches - Tooling Around The Matheson History Museum

World War II Rationing - U-S-History.com

Media:

"Dance of Deception" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

"Happy Happy Game Show" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

VIDEO - Growth of the Black Market During WW2

Music for Makers

View Details

Welcome to The Story Behind: Clue Series. In every episode of this series, we talk about the history of one of the original weapons used in the game, “Clue.” This series may not be appropriate for all ages and listener discretion is advised.

Did you ever wonder why it’s tradition to blow out candles on your birthday? It actually goes back to the Ancient Greeks and burning candles in religious ceremonies, including to pay tribute to the goddess Artemis who is associated with the moon. They baked cakes to symbolize the shape of the moon and added candles to represent moonlight.

Though cakes are delicious, they can’t really be used as a weapon for MURDER. But another candleholder can ...

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind The Candlestick.

The Clue Series Butler you heard at the beginning of the episode was played by Paul from Rick and Paul Heal the World.

Miss Scarlet imitations provided by Amy from the podcast Ladies Love Paul Rudd.

The role of Liberace was played by Craig from The Ultra Podcast. And Rub-A-Dub-Dub was read by Heather from her new podcast, Sunshine & PowerCuts, which is about her life off grid.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Take the #2PodsADay Challenge! Visit 2PodsADay.wordpress.com or follow @2PodsADay on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

"Dance of Deception" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

"Happy Happy Game Show" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Music for Makers

Sources:

Why Do We Blow Out Birthday Candles? - Wonderopolis

Ancient Jewish History: The Menorah - Jewish Virtual Library

Book: Pop Goes the Weasel: The Secret Meanings of Nursery Rhymes

Reason Behind the Rhyme: Rub-a-Dub-Dub - NPR

History of Candles - National Candle Association

Candelabra - Merriam-Webster

Book: Liberace: An American Boy by Darden Asbury Pyron

What Is The Candle Maker's Petition? - Investopedia

Thomas Edison was Scrooge - The Unbroken Window

Book Review: A History of the Menorah - The New York Times

View Details

Welcome to The Story Behind: Clue Series. In every episode of this series, we talk about the history of one of the original weapons used in the game, “Clue.” This series may not be appropriate for all ages and listener discretion is advised.

This episode’s Clue weapon is depicted in the game by a bent metal tube, probably bent because of the force one would need to actually kill someone with that weapon. And, even if it’s not being used for MURDER, the material it’s made out of certainly has caused its share of health problems.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind The Lead Pipe.

The Clue Series Butler you heard at the beginning of the episode was played by Paul from Rick and Paul Heal the World.

Mr. Green imitations provided by Robin from the podcast The Trail Went Cold and Scott from the podcast Recovering from Religion.

The role of Vitruvius was played by Jeremy Collins from the Facebook group and podcast Podcasts We Listen To.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Take the #2PodsADay Challenge! Visit 2PodsADay.wordpress.com or follow @2PodsADay on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

"Dance of Deception" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

"Happy Happy Game Show" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Music for Makers

Sources:

The Lead Industry and Lead Water Pipes “A MODEST CAMPAIGN” - US National Library of Medicine

Are Your Pipes Made Of Lead? Here's A Quick Way To Find Out - NPR

History of Plumbing Timeline - SafePlumbing.org

27 Historical Events that Shaped Modern Plumbing Systems - Ivey Engineering

BOOK: An Illustrated History of Health and Fitness, from Pre-History to our Post-Modern World by Roy J. Shephard

An American History of Lead Poisoning - The Atlantic

Lead poisoning and the fall of Rome - The Washington Post

A Very Brief History of Lead in Water Supplies - RWL Water

Lee Ving - IMDB

Is it Safe to Eat Off Vintage Plates? - Smithsonian.com

Congressional Investigations and the Lavender Scare - Prologue Magazine

9 Things To Know About 'The Lavender Scare' - Out.com

View Details

As of 2017, it’s been 16 years since Alex Trebek shocked the world by appearing clean-shaven in the 18th season of “Jeopardy!” Aside from one season back two years ago, when he grew a thinner version back again, prompting fan pages and even a Twitter account just for his mustache.

But thanks to audience feedback, as well as his wife’s, by the next season, the ‘stache was gone. And I don’t know about you, but to me, that mustache has and will always represent him. And I’m not the only one to associate the two: Will Ferrell, who has portrayed Alex Trebek numerous times on Saturday Night Live’s “Celebrity Jeopardy!” skits is always seen with the signature ’stache.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Mustache.

Thanks to Nick from the Epic Film Guys for providing a picture of his luscious beard for Monday’s episode art for The Story Behind Beards when I asked for a beard picture in The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

NEW Get Gear from The Story Behind at our TeePublic Store!

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

The Office Movember

Sources:

The Mustache: A Hairy History - BBC

The Time Peter the Great Declared War on Facial Hair - Mental Floss

Peter The Great Initiated A Bizarre Beard Tax That Put A Price On Flowing Facial Hair - Realm of History

A Short History of Beard Styles - History Cooperative

Victorian Mustache Spoon: Your Nose Neighbor's Best Friend - Gizmodo

Hail to the Beard! A Look at the Presidential Facial Hair - History Buff

A Hairy Tale - The History of Movember’s Early Years - Movember.com

History: The Mustached American Movement - The American Mustache Institute

Alex Trebek Shaved His Mustache Again, Here's Why - Cinema Blend

11 Hard-Hitting Facts About Reggie Jackson - Mental Floss

Book: Moustaches, Whiskers & Beards – Lucinda Hawksley

View Details

When god said, let there be light, Chuck Norris said, “Say please.” Why is this joke funny? Or, at least it was funny a few years ago when Chuck Norris jokes were an internet favorite? Because in the joke, you are to believe Chuck Norris is more powerful than god.

I know, explaining a joke clearly makes it funnier. But in today’s episode, we’ll explore the feature God and Chuck Norris share that no doubt is seen as a contributing factor to their power -- at least according to jokes on the internet.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Beards.

Thanks to Nick from the Epic Film Guys for providing a picture of his beard for the episode art!

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

NEW Get Gear from The Story Behind at our TeePublic Store!

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

A Short History of Beard Styles - HistoryCoopersative.org

The Amazing History of Beards (INFOGRAPHIC) - Huffington Post

The Half-Mask - Slate.com

The History of the American Beard - The New Yorker

The Racially Fraught History of the American Beard - The Atlantic

Why Do Male Lions Have Manes? - Mental Floss

How Did Abe Lincoln Growing a Beard Kick Start Milton Bradley’s Gaming Career? - Legends Revealed

Why Ian McKellen Really Rejected the Role of Dumbledore - Vanity Fair

Why Does God Love Beards? - Slate

The Racially Fraught History of the American Beard - The Atlantic

The 20 Best Chuck Norris Facts - The Telegraph

5 Ways How Your Beard Affects People Around You - Balding Beards

View Details

When you sign up for a social media account, once you’ve established your username and profile, what’s one of the first things you do? Choose a profile picture. Well, in 1776, after the Declaration of Independence was signed, what was one of the first things the founding fathers wanted to do? Establish a national seal -- basically the profile picture of the United States.

But it’s not like they could just grab ye olde selfie stick and pose for one, they wanted something strong, a symbol of America’s fortitude and pride.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind America’s Bald Eagle.

The role of Benjamin Franklin was played by Paul Csomo, co-host of the Varmints podcast at BlazingCaribouStudios.com.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

NEW Get Gear from The Story Behind at our TeePublic Store!

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

VIDEO - Sesame Street: The National Bird

Sources:

Ben Franklin And The Great Seal Of America - The New York Times

Benjamin Franklin on the Rattlesnake as a Symbol of America - GreatSeal.com

Charles Thomson - NNDB

Did Benjamin Franklin Really Say the National Symbol Should Be the Turkey? - Slate

Eagle vs. Turkey: America's First Bird Controversy - National Wildlife Federation

How Did The Bald Eagle Become America’s National Bird? - History.com

Eagle on the U.S. Presidential Seal - Snopes.com

Samuel Adams - History.com

The Debunker: Does the Presidential Eagle Ever Turn Its Head? - Woot.com

American Myths: Benjamin Franklin’s Turkey and the Presidential Seal - Smithsonian.com

View Details

We talked about mascots in The Story Behind Sports Superstitions and Curses and about how they’re thought to bring a team luck. Well, mascots aren’t just for sports. The one we’ll be talking about today is basically a mascot for the United States, although you probably won’t see him performing cartwheels during halftime of the Olympics or something.

This particular mascot went something of a personification of the country in political cartoons to being the representation of the U.S. government, and, although we won’t talk about it, was the title character of a 1996 slasher movie with the tagline: "I want you … dead."

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Uncle Sam.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest NEW | Website

NEW Get Gear from The Story Behind at our TeePublic Store!

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Other Episodes of The Story Behind Referenced:

The Story Behind Sports Superstitions & Curses

The Story Behind Surfer Lingo

The Story Behind Christmas Traditions

The Story Behind Secret Ballots

Sources:

Uncle Sam - Encyclopedia Britannica

1813: United States nicknamed Uncle Sam - History.com

Was there a real “Uncle Sam”? - History.com

9 Things You Might Not Know About Uncle Sam - Mental Floss

John Bull and Uncle Sam: Four Centuries of British-American Relations - Library of Congress

Artist Biography: Joseph Ferdinand Keppler - Smithsonian Library

When America Was Female - The Atlantic

Columbia Pictures - Closing Logos Group

Sorry Uncle Sam, but Warrior Goddess Columbia Was Our Coolest National Mascot - Slate

View Details

Sometimes I’ll be researching an episode and get the idea for another episode from whatever Google rabbit hole I find myself in. That’s how this episode came about -- while I was researching The Story Behind Surfing.

I got into the topic of words and phrases popularized because of surf culture. And also, because my husband has been begging me to do an episode relating to his favorite movie, "The Big Lebowski," this is probably right up his alley, dude.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Surfer Lingo.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

The role of Jean Armour Polly was played by Kathe Kline from Rock Your Retirement.

The music provided during the episode was performed by the band And Robots. Find more of their music at and-robots.com.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Documentary - The Story of English

Music for Makers

Sources:

The History of the Dude - Good

A Brief History of Dude - The Atlantic

Kahuna - Online Etymology Dictionary

What The Hell Does "Cowabunga" Mean, Anyhow? - BuzzFeed

The Woman Who Coined the Expression 'Surfing the Internet' - Surfer Today

Channel Surfing - Lex Maniac

‘80s Slang - Like Totally ‘80s

Watch Surfers and Valley Girls Explain the Latest Slang in This 1980s Documentary - Slate

View Details

It’s officially summer, if you’re listening to this episode around the time it comes out in June of 2017. Let’s get away from the deep subjects like we had last week with The Story Behind Hypnotism and The Story Behind Subliminal Messages and do a lighter topic. Maybe something you can listen to while laying in the sand on the beach somewhere soaking up the summer sun. Or, if you’ve just found the Story Behind and listening to past episodes in the cold winter months, transport yourself mentally to the beach as you listen.

Even if you’re not one of the 23 million people worldwide who participate in the pastime I’m focusing on in this week’s episodes, you can feel like you’re riding the waves with two episodes focusing on the sport and some of the language surrounding it.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Surfing.

The role of Duke Kahanamoku was played by Dan Brenic from the Netflix N’ Swill podcast.

The music provided during the episode was performed by the band And Robots. Find more of their music at and-robots.com.

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

And Robots

Music for Makers

Jeff Spicoli - YouTube

Sources:

Book - Legends of Surfing: The Greatest Surfriders from Duke Kahanamoku to Kelly Slater by Duke Boyd

History of the Surf Board - Club of the Waves

The Origins of Surfing - The Sport of Kings

Surfing Statistics -Statistic Brain

A Beginner’s Guide To The Sweet, Stinging Nostalgia Of The Beach Boys - A.V. Club

History Of Surfing: Gidget, The All-powerful - Surfer.com

Video - David Davis: "Waterman: The Life and Times of Duke Kahanamoku" | Talks at Google

The Origin of the Word Surfing

Glossary of Surfing Terms - Surfer Today

What The Hell Does "Cowabunga" Mean, Anyhow? - BuzzFeed

Video - Writer Eddie Kean on the origin of "Cowabunga" on The Howdy Doody Show

The History of the Dude - Good

The History of the Famous Surfing Shaka Sign - Surfer Today

View Details

Join The Story Behind Discussion Group on Facebook!

If you are driving, did you notice the last exit you passed? Or do you remember where you were on the road five minutes ago? If you answered no to those questions, you’re already familiar with this episode’s topic.

(Also, what are you doing reading show notes while you're driving? Watch the road!)

There may not have been any spinning spirals or dangling pocket watches, but you may have just entered into another state. And not geographically.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Hypnosis.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Franz Anton Mesmer - Encyclopeda Britannica

How Hypnosis Works - How Stuff Works

History Of Hypnosis - HistoryofHypnosis.org

Self-Hypnosis for Everyday Life - Psychology Today

How Does Hypnosis Work? - Live Science

I've Heard That Hypnosis Can Be Used to Ease Pain During Childbirth. How Does Hypnobirthing Work? - Mayo Clinic

Can Hypnosis Kill You? - Popular Science

10 Deadly Cases of Hypnosis - Listverse

The First Recorded Death in Hypnosis - Journal of the American Medical Association, Volume 23

VIDEO - The History of Hypnosis

VIDEO - The Science of Hypnosis

View Details

There’s a lot we may never get the full Story Behind. In fact, this topic is probably far from being explored to its full potential, especially within a short podcast episode. But that didn’t stop me -- and my ADD -- from becoming intrigued by its origins, how it works and how it’s used every day without us being aware of it.

But then again, there are those who are aware of it or who think they’re aware of it, and those who are hyper-aware of it. Everyday occurrences like product placement in movies and television, underlying messages in music and maybe even the ability for our brains to hear something one way, but our subconscious can pick up on its reverse, therefore having the potential to brainwash us.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Subliminal Messages.

WHAT I SAID AT THE END OF THE EPISODE: But as part of the media, I’m supposed to say that.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

The Simpsons: "Join the Navy"

Paul McCartney is Dead

Sources:

Documentary - Programming the Nation?

The Shocking Drink And Incredible Coke History Of Subliminal Advertising - Business Insider

Popcorn Subliminal Advertising

Classical Rhetoric 101: A Brief History - Art of Manliness

Sex in the Ice Cubes - Slate

UCL Study: Subliminal Messaging ‘More Effective When Negative’ - University College London

Subliminal Advertising Leaves Its Mark On The Brain - Science Daily

Power of the Hidden Message Revealed - The Independent

Classical conditioning: Are All Your Thoughts Yours? - Blasting News

“The Simpsons” Producer Responds To Insane Conspiracy Theory That is Show Helped Start the Arab Spring - Mother Jones

Does Subliminal Messaging Work? A New Film Investigates - The Atlantic

The Devil Wears Headphones: A Brief History of Backmasking - Mental Floss

Backmasking of Songs: Psychology & Examples - Study.com

10 Famous Cases of Backmasking - Listverse

The 10 Wildest Led Zeppelin Legends, Fact-Checked - Rolling Stone

View Details

Psychologists have studied the importance of symbols and found people, whether conscious of it or not, are drawn to symbols of immortality like the Egyptian ankh, or hearts, crosses and flags. History has uncovered jewelry and decorations with these symbols on it dating hundreds of years back and, in this episode, we’ll talk about how these art, designs and symbols not only adorned the belongings of people in the past, but were also used to decorate the body.

Nowadays, 3 out of 10 Americans get inked and not necessarily as a symbol for prolonging life, but it may remind them of milestones in their lives or important people they’ve lost or even that our lower backs wouldn’t be complete without a strategically placed butterfly.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Tattoos.

But first, a quick message.

Visit Patch of Sky Farm for skin and body care products, upcycled crafts and nutrition coaching and meal planning.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

16 Interesting Facts About Tattoos - MSN

If Tattoos Could Talk - Psychology Today

Tattoo Takeover - The Harris Poll

Why do people go back for more and more tattoos? - BBC

How Tattoos Went From Subculture to Pop Culture - Huffington Post

Tattoos - Smithsonian Magazine

Samoa: Samoan Tattoos - Polynesia.com

Can Tattoos Be Medicinal? - Smithsonian Magazine

Did Thomas Edison Invent the Tattoo Machine? - Inked Magazine

A Visual Guide to Sailor Tattoos - The Atlantic

A Sailor's Life: The Legend of Tattooer Sailor Jerry Collins - Inked Magazine

The Sailor Jerry Festival - SailorJerryFestival.com

View Details

I love picking topics for this podcast that are normally not questioned on an everyday basis. In fact, many topics I pick stem from me being able to slow down for a few seconds and question, “Hey, where does this come from?” or “Why do we do this?”

Most topics are pretty easy to research, but I was surprised this particular topic of why we do something was a little harder, most likely because humans have been doing it for so long, no one really questions why or the origin stories behind it.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Ear Piercing.

Visit Patch of Sky Farm for skin and body care products, upcycled crafts and nutrition coaching and meal planning.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

History of Ear Piercing - Painful Pleasures

Why Did Pirates Wear Earrings - Live Science

Evil Ear - Santharia

History of Ear Piercing - All That is Interesting

History of Body Piercing - Painful Pleasures

Body Piercing Statistics - Statistic Brain

Ear Piercing to Relieve Migraines - Penn State University

View Details

Many people can probably relate to eating too much of something at one time, and then never wanting it again, right? Well, for me, that thing is bubble gum. I was in a show years ago in which the director wanted my character to chew bubble gum and be able to blow a bubble on demand. So, for the two months of rehearsal, I constantly chewed bubble gum to the point where my jaw hurt at the end of the day. After the show, I hadn’t had another piece since, which was more than 10 years ago.

That was until my 6-year-old asked me to teach her to blow a bubble and I had to taste that iconic super-sweet taste all over again. Luckily, it’s one of those skills that’s hard to forget, and it also made me wonder why such a pointless product like bubble gum existed in the first place.

This research rabbit hole ended up captivating me so much this week, I didn’t want to leave anything out, which is why this topic was stretched out over two episodes.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Bubble Gum.

The Bazooka Joe jokesters were John, Deuce and Joe from the Brand X Podcast.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

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Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp_K8prLfso

Sources:

http://www.history.com/news/hungry-history/chew-on-this-the-history-of-gum

http://www.chewinggumfacts.com/chewing-gum-history/bubble-gum-history/

http://www.wrigley.com/global/about-us/ourfounder.aspx

http://www.livescience.com/17520-chewing-gum-test-performance.html

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130308093933.htm

http://gumballmachinefactory.com/gumballhistory.html

http://www.snopes.com/oldwives/chewgum.asp

http://www.beckett.com/news/topps-puts-bubble-gum-back-into-packs-sort-of/

https://www.oldtimecandy.com/discontinued/bazooka-bubble-gum/

http://www.cartoonbrew.com/advertising/michael-eisner-is-giving-bazooka-joe-a-face-lift-111251.html

http://www.bazookajoecomics.com/jokes/jokes.htm

https://newrepublic.com/article/110868/bazooka-joe-comics-pulled-bubble-gum-after-58-years

https://mobile.nytimes.com/2012/11/30/business/media/bazooka-gum-overhauls-brand-and-loses-comic-strips.html?_r=1&&referer=

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/30/business/media/bazooka-gum-overhauls-brand-and-loses-comic-strips.html?_r=1&

View Details

Gumpa Lumpa Dum-pa-dee-do
I have another podcast for you
Gumpa Lumpa Dum-pa-da-dind
This episode of The Story Behind

Gum's been around for quite a long while
Freshening your breath and whitening your smile
It is a favorite for astronaut crews
But a pain when stuck on your shoes

The way toilet paper does

Gumpa Lumpa Dump-pa-dee-da
I hope you like random trivia
You will learn all about this goo
Like the Gumpa Lumpa Dump-pa-dee-do

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Chewing Gum.

The role of Leon Trotsky was played by Chris Nesi from the House of #EdTech Podcast.

The Gumpa Lumpa song was sung by Craig from The Ultra Podcast.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.history.com/news/hungry-history/chew-on-this-the-history-of-gum

http://www.chewinggumfacts.com/chewing-gum-history/bubble-gum-history/

http://www.wrigley.com/global/about-us/ourfounder.aspx

http://www.livescience.com/17520-chewing-gum-test-performance.html

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/03/130308093933.htm

http://gumballmachinefactory.com/gumballhistory.html

http://www.snopes.com/oldwives/chewgum.asp

http://www.beckett.com/news/topps-puts-bubble-gum-back-into-packs-sort-of/

https://www.oldtimecandy.com/discontinued/bazooka-bubble-gum/

http://www.cartoonbrew.com/advertising/michael-eisner-is-giving-bazooka-joe-a-face-lift-111251.html

http://www.bazookajoecomics.com/jokes/jokes.htm

https://newrepublic.com/article/110868/bazooka-joe-comics-pulled-bubble-gum-after-58-years

https://mobile.nytimes.com/2012/11/30/business/media/bazooka-gum-overhauls-brand-and-loses-comic-strips.html?_r=1&&referer=

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/30/business/media/bazooka-gum-overhauls-brand-and-loses-comic-strips.html?_r=1&

View Details

Whoever came up with the idea to attach an eraser to a pencil was a genius, when you think about it. Before that, they were two separate objects, but you usually didn’t want to have one without the other. Sometimes combinations like this work out perfectly, like when makeup companies began adding sunscreen to foundations.

But other times, combinations might not work out as well, like the year my mom sent me to summer camp with a new product that combined sunscreen and bug spray, which caused an allergic reaction and really wasn’t good at protecting me from bugs or the sun.

Today’s episode focuses on one of these hybrids that sometimes works great for foods like mashed potatoes, chili, and casseroles, but sometimes doesn’t work as well for foods like broth or spaghetti.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Sporks.

The role of Bill Clinton was played by Wes from The Via VHS Podcast.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Looking for more female-hosted podcasts? Find them by searching #LadyPodSquad on Twitter.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.salon.com/2012/10/06/consider_the_spork/

http://mentalfloss.com/article/65500/man-who-invented-spork

https://www.vox.com/2015/6/23/8826591/spork-inventor

https://www.wired.com/2015/08/tritensil-spork/

http://io9.gizmodo.com/this-hybrid-knork-utensil-was-also-an-important-medic-1700498082

http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=51104

http://careysuevega.com/manner-monday-sporks-saltcellars-and-knife-rests-oh-my/

“Consider the Fork: A History of How We Cook and Eat” by Bee Wilson

View Details

There are a lot of ways your personality is showcased to the world. The food you eat, the shows you watch, the places you go. But did you ever think of how you wear your personality on your sleeve, or, rather in the case of this episode, your torso? In fact, 95 percent of Americans own this piece of clothing that can act as a walking billboard for whatever message they support.

This clothing piece’s history has been through the ringer, so-to-speak, as far as being an undergarment, then popularized by Marlon Brando as everyday wear, and is now considered a favorite among souvenirs and mementos. In fact, nine out of 10 Americans have at least one they refuse to throw away.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the T-Shirt.

Like this episode? Check out The Story Behind Hoodies And The Story Behind the Smiley Face!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2014/10/surprisingly-recent-invention-t-shirt/

http://gizmodo.com/how-the-t-shirt-was-invented-1646047645

http://www.melmarc.com/history-of-the-graphic-t-shirt/

https://mobile.nytimes.com/2013/09/22/magazine/who-made-that-t-shirt.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNZ5MnKDLnE

https://web.archive.org/web/20080314172148/http://www.katharinehamnett.com/Campaigns/Choose-Life-T-Shirt/

https://darecatalog.com/Product.asp?prodID=589&subcatid=1&catid=1

http://www.dazeddigital.com/fashion/article/32208/1/how-the-che-guevara-t-shirt-became-a-global-phenomenon

http://www.complex.com/style/2014/08/apc-kanye-white-t-shirt-review/

http://mentalfloss.com/article/29884/what-happens-losing-teams-championship-shirts

http://abcnews.go.com/WN/truth-donated-clothes-end/story?id=2743456

http://www.instituteartist.com/feature-Pepe-Paolo-Woods

View Details

The Story Behind Lullabies Spotify Playlist

As you can imagine, much of my baby break was spent getting used to having a newborn in the house again and learning what he likes and dislikes. Turns out, my son is a fan of music, which should come to no surprise to those who know me and my semi-secret love of musicals or my husband and his collection of musical instruments and his band.

One day when nothing else was working to put him to sleep, I began humming to him and it was like I flipped a switch and he instantly closed his eyes and settled down. While I kept humming to him, I began looking up how and why the singing worked, which brings us to today’s topic.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Lullabies.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

https://youtu.be/QsvfS0lnCYU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8zYEBMFS-U

Sources:

https://rockabyebabymusic.com/

http://health.howstuffworks.com/pregnancy-and-parenting/baby-health/infant-health/why-do-lullabies-work.htm

http://mobile.edweek.org/c.jsp?cid=25920011&item=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.edweek.org%2Fv1%2Fblogs%2F85%2F%3Fuuid%3D56163

http://www.livestrong.com/article/157461-how-music-affects-the-human-brain/

https://www.kindermusik.com/mindsonmusic/benefits-of-music/do-lullabies-really-work/

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-21035103

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p010z9yc

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/fact-or-fiction-babies-ex/

https://www.kindermusik.com/mindsonmusic/benefits-of-music/singing-to-young-children-supports-early-language-development/

https://curiosity.com/topics/theres-a-reason-babies-respond-to-high-pitched-baby-talk-curiosity/

http://mentalfloss.com/article/55035/dark-origins-11-classic-nursery-rhymes

http://www.smosh.com/smosh-pit/articles/actual-true-meanings-classic-nursery-rhymes

https://www.thoughtco.com/mozart-origin-twinkle-twinkle-little-star-723916

http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=22849

http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=4848

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mockingbird_(Inez_%26_Charlie_Foxx_song)

View Details

Did you ever wonder about that teacher’s magical drawer that contained all the awesome toys confiscated throughout the year? Like that scene in “A Christmas Story” when the teacher opens her desk drawer to put in the kids’ wax teeth, and when the camera pans to the inside, there seems to be a bottomless treasure trove.

Back when I was in school, I imagine my teachers’ drawers were full of slap bracelets and pogs, followed by yo-yos when they made a quick resurgence in the ‘90s.

In this episode, I’ll be talking about the current fad of confiscated classroom toys, the contested origin of them, the supposed benefits of them and a little bit of physics.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Fidget Spinners.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://nymag.com/scienceofus/2017/05/the-fidget-spinner-craze-is-already-over.html

http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/parenting/kids/woman-who-invented-the-fidget-spinner-isnt-getting-anything/news-story/05eb69bbd4c8598582d68ffd202e356a

https://www.fatherly.com/play/activities/theres-real-science-behind-fidget-spinners/?utm_source=curiosity&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=syndication

https://nypost.com/2017/05/05/woman-who-invented-fidget-spinners-isnt-getting-squat/amp/

https://www.bloomberg.com/amp/news/articles/2017-05-11/how-the-fidget-spinner-origin-story-spun-out-of-control

https://mobile.nytimes.com/2017/05/06/style/fidget-spinners.html?

http://time.com/money/4762207/fidget-spinner-inventor-catherine-hettinger/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucelee/2017/05/19/heres-the-science-behind-the-fidget-spinner-craze/amp/

http://www.livescience.com/58916-fidget-spinner-faq.html

http://www.livescience.com/58963-how-fidget-spinners-work-physics.html

http://io9.gizmodo.com/5946797/watch-how-jim-henson-made-david-bowie-spin-crystal-balls-on-the-set-of-labyrinth

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/638415231/classic-fidget-spinner-spinning-de-stressor-finger

View Details

This 10-part series I put out while on maternity leave from April-May 2017 features snapshots of history, as told through the lyrics to Billy Joel's "We Didn't Start the Fire," beginning with an introduction to the song, itself.

We Didn't Start the Fire | Introduction (WDSTF Series, TSB051) 1949-1950: Harry Truman through Marilyn Monroe (WDSTF Series, TSB052) In this episode:

• Harry Truman
• Doris Day
• Red China
• Johnnie Ray
• South Pacific
• Walter Winchell
• Joe DiMaggio
• Joe McCarthy
• Richard Nixon
• Studebaker
• Television
• North Korea/South Korea
• Marilyn Monroe

1951-1952: Rosenbergs through Santayana Goodbye (WDSTF Series, TSB053) In this episode:

• Rosenbergs
• H-Bomb
• Sugar Ray
• Panmunjom
• Brando
• The King And I
• (and) The Catcher In The Rye
• Eisenhower
• Vaccine
• England's got a new queen
• Marciano
• Liberace
• Santayana goodbye

1953-1954: Joseph Stalin through Rock Around the Clock (WDSTF Series, TSB054) In this episode:

• Joseph Stalin
• Malenkov
• Nasser
• (and) Prokofiev
• Rockefeller
• Campanella
• Communist Bloc
• Roy Cohn
• Juan Peron
• Toscanini
• Dacron
• Dien Bien Phu falls
• "Rock Around the Clock"

1955-1956: Einstein through Trouble in the Suez (WDSTF Series, TSB055) In this episode:

• Einstein
• James Dean
• Brooklyn's got a winning team
• Davy Crockett
• Peter Pan
• Elvis Presley
• Disneyland
• Bardot
• Budapest
• Alabama
• Khrushchev
• Princess Grace
• Peyton Place
• Trouble in the Suez

1957-1958: Little Rock through Children of Thalidomide (WDSTF Series, TSB056) In this episode:

• Little Rock
• Pasternak
• Mickey Mantle
• Kerouac
• Sputnik
• Zhou Enlai
• Bridge On The River Kwai
• Lebanon
• Charles de Gaulle
• California baseball
• Starkweather Homicide
• Children of Thalidomide

1959-1960: Buddy Holly through Belgians in the Congo (WDSTF Series, TSB057) In this episode:

• Buddy Holly
• Ben-Hur
• Space Monkey
• Mafia
• Hula Hoops
• Castro
• Edsel is a no-go
• U-2
• Syngman Rhee
• Payola
• (and) Kennedy
• Chubby Checker
• Psycho
• Belgians in the Congo

1961-1963: Hemingway through JFK Blown Away (WDSTF Series, TSB058) In this episode:

• Hemingway
• Eichmann
• Stranger in a Strange Land
• Dylan
• Berlin
• Bay of Pigs invasion
• Lawrence of Arabia
• British Beatlemania
• Ole Miss
• John Glenn
• Liston beats Patterson
• Pope Paul
• Malcolm X
• British politician sex
• J.F.K. blown away (what else do I have to say?)

1964-1989 Part 1: Birth Control through Russians in Afghanistan (WDSTF Series, TSB059) In this episode:

• Birth control
• Ho Chi Minh
• Richard Nixon back again
• Moonshot
• Woodstock
• Watergate
• Punk rock
• Begin
• Reagan
• Palestine
• Terror on the airline
• Ayatollah's in Iran
• Russians in Afghanistan

1964-1989 Part 2: Wheel of Fortune through Rock and Roller Cola Wars (WDSTF Series, TSB060) In this episode:

• Wheel of Fortune
• Sally Ride
• Heavy metal suicide
• Foreign debts
• Homeless Vets
• AIDS
• Crack
• Bernie Goetz
• Hypodermics on the shores
• China's under martial law
• Rock and Roller cola wars (I can't take it anymore)

View Details

During my five week baby break, I received so many wonderful Tweets, Facebook and notifications, Instagram likes and various messages congratulating me on the birth of my son. I wanted to convey how much our family appreciated those messages, not to mention part of my baby break was spent filling out cards to show gratitude to those who showered us with gifts.

In this episode, we’ll discuss etiquette and etymology of a common phrase, gratitude in other cultures, and other ways to interpret appreciation.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Thank You.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

https://www.mtmrecognition.com/history-thank-notes/

https://www.brainpickings.org/2013/07/25/origin-of-please-and-thank-you/

http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=thank

http://www.npr.org/2012/03/09/148295675/please-read-this-story-thank-you

http://emilypost.com/advice/thank-you-notes-to-send-or-not-to-send/

http://emilypost.com/advice/ten-wedding-thank-you-note-dos-and-donts/

http://www.bjreview.com.cn/eye/txt/2014-02/10/content_594944.htm

http://www.emotionscards.com/museum/louisprang.htm

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-mindful-self-express/201511/how-gratitude-leads-happier-life

https://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/04/fashion/blessed-becomes-popular-word-hashtag-social-media.html?_r=0

View Details

If you’re hearing this episode around the time it comes out, it means I’m taking some time off after the birth of my son. I’ve recorded these ahead of time and most likely will not be available on social media for the next few weeks, but you’ll still get The Story Behind twice a week if you’re subscribed to the podcast.

Consider this series to be like a substitute teacher. We won’t go as in-depth as in previous episodes, but we’ll briefly touch of a number of different topics in each episode. This series focuses on Billy Joel’s song “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and the headline-making events and people he mentions. Some content may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind We Didn’t Start The Fire: 1964-1989 Part 2.

In this episode:

• Wheel of Fortune
• Sally Ride
• Heavy metal suicide
• Foreign debts
• Homeless Vets
• AIDS
• Crack
• Bernie Goetz
• Hypodermics on the shores
• China's under martial law
• Rock and Roller cola wars (I can't take it anymore)

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

View Details

If you’re hearing this episode around the time it comes out, it means I’m taking some time off after the birth of my son. I’ve recorded these ahead of time and most likely will not be available on social media for the next few weeks, but you’ll still get The Story Behind twice a week if you’re subscribed to the podcast.

Consider this series to be like a substitute teacher. We won’t go as in-depth as in previous episodes, but we’ll briefly touch of a number of different topics in each episode. This series focuses on Billy Joel’s song “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and the headline-making events and people he mentions. Some content may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind We Didn’t Start The Fire: 1964-1989 Part 1.

In this episode:

• Birth control
• Ho Chi Minh
• Richard Nixon back again
• Moonshot
• Woodstock
• Watergate
• Punk rock
• Begin
• Reagan
• Palestine
• Terror on the airline
• Ayatollah's in Iran
• Russians in Afghanistan

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

View Details

If you’re hearing this episode around the time it comes out, it means I’m taking some time off after the birth of my son. I’ve recorded these ahead of time and most likely will not be available on social media for the next few weeks, but you’ll still get The Story Behind twice a week if you’re subscribed to the podcast.

Consider this series to be like a substitute teacher. We won’t go as in-depth as in previous episodes, but we’ll briefly touch of a number of different topics in each episode. This series focuses on Billy Joel’s song “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and the headline-making events and people he mentions. Some content may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind We Didn’t Start The Fire: 1961-1963.

In this episode:

• Hemingway
• Eichmann
• Stranger in a Strange Land
• Dylan
• Berlin
• Bay of Pigs invasion
• Lawrence of Arabia
• British Beatlemania
• Ole Miss
• John Glenn
• Liston beats Patterson
• Pope Paul
• Malcolm X
• British politician sex
• J.F.K. blown away (what else do I have to say?)

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

View Details

If you’re hearing this episode around the time it comes out, it means I’m taking some time off after the birth of my son. I’ve recorded these ahead of time and most likely will not be available on social media for the next few weeks, but you’ll still get The Story Behind twice a week if you’re subscribed to the podcast.

Consider this series to be like a substitute teacher. We won’t go as in-depth as in previous episodes, but we’ll briefly touch of a number of different topics in each episode. This series focuses on Billy Joel’s song “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and the headline-making events and people he mentions. Some content may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind We Didn’t Start The Fire: 1959-1960.

In this episode:

• Buddy Holly
• Ben-Hur
• Space Monkey
• Mafia
• Hula Hoops
• Castro
• Edsel is a no-go
• U-2
• Syngman Rhee
• Payola
• (and) Kennedy
• Chubby Checker
• Psycho
• Belgians in the Congo

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

View Details

If you’re hearing this episode around the time it comes out, it means I’m taking some time off after the birth of my son. I’ve recorded these ahead of time and most likely will not be available on social media for the next few weeks, but you’ll still get The Story Behind twice a week if you’re subscribed to the podcast.

Consider this series to be like a substitute teacher. We won’t go as in-depth as in previous episodes, but we’ll briefly touch of a number of different topics in each episode. This series focuses on Billy Joel’s song “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and the headline-making events and people he mentions. Some content may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind We Didn’t Start The Fire: 1957-1958.

In this episode:

• Little Rock
• Pasternak
• Mickey Mantle
• Kerouac
• Sputnik
• Zhou Enlai
• Bridge On The River Kwai
• Lebanon
• Charles de Gaulle
• California baseball
• Starkweather Homicide
• Children of Thalidomide

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

View Details

If you’re hearing this episode around the time it comes out, it means I’m taking some time off after the birth of my son. I’ve recorded these ahead of time and most likely will not be available on social media for the next few weeks, but you’ll still get The Story Behind twice a week if you’re subscribed to the podcast.

Consider this series to be like a substitute teacher. We won’t go as in-depth as in previous episodes, but we’ll briefly touch of a number of different topics in each episode. This series focuses on Billy Joel’s song “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and the headline-making events and people he mentions. Some content may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind We Didn’t Start The Fire: 1955-1956.

In this episode:

• Einstein
• James Dean
• Brooklyn's got a winning team
• Davy Crockett
• Peter Pan
• Elvis Presley
• Disneyland
• Bardot
• Budapest
• Alabama
• Khrushchev
• Princess Grace
• Peyton Place
• Trouble in the Suez

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

View Details

If you’re hearing this episode around the time it comes out, it means I’m taking some time off after the birth of my son. I’ve recorded these ahead of time and most likely will not be available on social media for the next few weeks, but you’ll still get The Story Behind twice a week if you’re subscribed to the podcast.

Consider this series to be like a substitute teacher. We won’t go as in-depth as in previous episodes, but we’ll briefly touch of a number of different topics in each episode. This series focuses on Billy Joel’s song “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and the headline-making events and people he mentions. Some content may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind We Didn’t Start The Fire: 1953-1954.

In this episode:

• Joseph Stalin
• Malenkov
• Nasser
• (and) Prokofiev
• Rockefeller
• Campanella
• Communist Bloc
• Roy Cohn
• Juan Peron
• Toscanini
• Dacron
  Dien Bien Phu falls
• "Rock Around the Clock"

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Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

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If you’re hearing this episode around the time it comes out, it means I’m taking some time off after the birth of my son. I’ve recorded these ahead of time and most likely will not be available on social media for the next few weeks, but you’ll still get The Story Behind twice a week if you’re subscribed to the podcast.

Consider this series to be like a substitute teacher. We won’t go as in-depth as in previous episodes, but we’ll briefly touch of a number of different topics in each episode. This series focuses on Billy Joel’s song “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and the headline-making events and people he mentions. Some content may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind We Didn’t Start The Fire: 1951-1952.

In this episode:

• Rosenbergs
• H-Bomb
• Sugar Ray
• Panmunjom
• Brando
• The King And I
• (and) The Catcher In The Rye
• Eisenhower
• Vaccine
• England's got a new queen
• Marciano
• Liberace
• Santayana goodbye

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

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If you’re hearing this episode around the time it comes out, it means I’m taking some time off after the birth of my son. I’ve recorded these ahead of time and most likely will not be available on social media for the next few weeks, but you’ll still get The Story Behind twice a week if you’re subscribed to the podcast.

Consider this series to be like a substitute teacher. We won’t go as in-depth as in previous episodes, but we’ll briefly touch of a number of different topics in each episode. This series focuses on Billy Joel’s song “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and the headline-making events and people he mentions. Some content may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind We Didn’t Start The Fire: 1949-1950.

In this episode:

• Harry Truman
• Doris Day
• Red China
• Johnnie Ray
• South Pacific
• Walter Winchell
• Joe DiMaggio
• Joe McCarthy
• Richard Nixon
• Studebaker
• Television
• North Korea/South Korea
• Marilyn Monroe

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

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If you’re hearing this episode around the time it comes out, it means I’ve gone into labor and, quite possibly, have already had the baby that’s been using me as a human punching bag for the last few months.

I’ve recorded these ahead of time and most likely will not be available on social media for the next few weeks, but you’ll still get The Story Behind twice a week if you’re subscribed to the podcast.

Consider this series to be like a substitute teacher. We won’t go as in-depth as in previous episodes, but we’ll briefly touch of a number of different topics in each episode.

As much as certain history teachers have gotten me excited about learning about history (and, really, it was only two from high school, Mr. Cehovsky and Mr. Patrick) -- it was a singer-songwriter’s lyrics that made me become interested in learning the history behind a number of different topics to have a working knowledge of them -- even if it was just so I knew what I was talking about when I sang a certain song by this musician. And that musician was Billy Joel.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind: The Introduction to the We Didn’t Start The Fire Series.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE FULL SERIES Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

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Media:

Music for Makers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dx3T8pbDcms

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFTLKWw542g

(Ryan Started the Fire) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lueRaOwFK0Q

EXTRA:

“The Office” Ryan Started the Fire Extended Cut: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPcuwZlJShE

Sources:

http://www.school-for-champions.com/history/start_fire_facts.htm#.WEgmuPn491l

https://www.billyjoel.com/biography/

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KC4n_R-eGLawJNZPvVFvgIgK7qkukPq0GWvuAdeWqD0/edit

http://www.billboard.com/artist/284376/billy-joel/chart

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billy_Joel_discography

View Details

When I planned on taking a baby break, I planned on doing my two tech week podcasts last week and then scheduling my upcoming series, but then my husband reminded me I had the idea a while back to do this episode as the NHL play-offs are about to start.

In this episode, I’ll be talking about the history of the oldest trophy in professional sports, its origins and evolutions, and what the winners have since done with the trophy.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, with my husband, Mark, and this is The Story Behind The Stanley Cup

Enjoy the bloopers at the end!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://content.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1902111,00.html

https://www.nhl.com/news/stanley-cup-timeline-from-1892-to-today/c-660570

http://mentalfloss.com/article/51140/22-things-you-might-not-know-about-stanley-cup

https://twitter.com/keeperofthecup

https://www.hhof.com/htmlSTCjournal/exSCJ_main.shtml

https://www.hhof.com/htmlSilverware/silver_splashstanleycup.shtml

http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/first-stanley-cup-championship-played

https://www.nhl.com/news/some-stanley-cup-celebrations-lead-to-trouble/c-660572

https://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/2017/03/17/getting-to-know-the-stanley-cup-better.html

https://sports.vice.com/en_us/article/stanley-cup-1994-rangers-strippers-bivalves-rock-and-roll

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You know how people are fond of a certain pen? Like, I happen to have a preference for the Pilot Precise V5s, while my husband always buys the Pilot G-2 07.

Well, when I asked him for gadget ideas for my collaboration with Home Gadget Geeks back in February, the first thing that popped into his mind was the topic for this episode. He’s a bit of a gamer and, like we have our preferences for pens, apparently, in the PC gaming world, there are enthusiasts who love finding just the right clickiness factor.

In this episode, we’ll look at the progression from typewriters to computers and how this common link between them has evolved over time.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Mechanical Keyboards.

Listen to the episode of Home Gadget Geeks I was a guest on with Jim Collison for more information on Voice Recognition and Mechanical Keyboards!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Typing_-_Model_F_122_1984.ogg

Sources:

http://www.tomshardware.com/picturestory/736-history-of-mechanical-keyboards.html#s2

http://www.mechtype.com/buckling-spring-origin-of-mechanical-keyboards/

http://www.mechtype.com/the-history-of-mechanical-keyboards/

http://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-history.html

http://mashable.com/2012/09/18/qwerty-keyboard/#hdFxpris6gqZ

http://www.etypewriters.com/history.htm

http://www.rtty.com/CODECARD/codecrd1.htm

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Welcome to Tech Week! This is one of the last weeks of The Story Behind before I officially go on Baby Break, but this week was planned way back in January when Jim Collison from Home Gadget Geeks reached out and wanted to do a collaboration of his show and mine. Here's the link to the episode of Home Gadget Geeks from Thursday, February 9th.

In this episode, I’ll be talking about … well, actually, let me have Siri tell you what I’ll be talking about.

Siri: Emily will be talking about my history. Starting with my ancestors, computers that would take up whole rooms with the function of being able to recognize a handful of spoken words, through the technology we know today.

Here is your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Voice Recognition

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyXegCueV88

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/video/moviefone-company-launches-search-replace-iconic-voice-23586976

Sources:

http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/gadgets/high-tech-gadgets/speech-recognition1.htm

http://www.pcworld.com/article/243060/speech_recognition_through_the_decades_how_we_ended_up_with_siri.html?page=2

https://astaspeaks.wordpress.com/2014/10/13/audrey-the-first-speech-recognition-system/

http://www.itbusiness.ca/news/history-of-voice-recognition-from-audrey-to-siri/15008

http://www.ece.ucsb.edu/Faculty/Rabiner/ece259/Reprints/354_LALI-ASRHistory-final-10-8.pdf

https://www.timetoast.com/timelines/the-history-of-voice-recognition

https://www-03.ibm.com/ibm/history/exhibits/specialprod1/specialprod1_7.html

https://www.thefreelibrary.com/BELLSOUTH+TESTS+NEW+VOICE+RECOGNITION+SERVICE+IN+TWO+FLORIDA+MARKETS-a018444708

https://www.automatedliving.com/

http://beebom.com/amazon-echo-alternatives/

http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/21/tech/innovation/female-computer-voices/

http://www.cnn.com/2013/10/04/tech/mobile/bennett-siri-iphone-voice/index.html

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If you’re a podcaster or an aspiring podcaster, I can’t recommend Libsyn enough for hosting. And when Elsie Escobar, from Libsyn’s The Feed and She Podcasts, reached out and suggested I do an episode on this topic, of course I jumped at the chance. Plus, her question piqued my own curiosity in the quasi-holiday we celebrate today.

Because I’m releasing this episode separate from my regular episode schedule, this is a reminder to subscribe to The Story Behind on your favorite podcast app so when I do release special episodes, you’ll be sure to get them as soon as they come out.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind April Fool’s Day.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVo_wkxH9dU

Sources:

http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/april-fools-tradition-popularized

http://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Hilaria

http://www.snopes.com/holidays/aprilfools/origins.asp

http://hoaxes.org/aprilfool/

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Ever wonder why brides wear white or why they wear veils? Or maybe what the point of bridesmaids were and why they’re dressed alike? There are tons of wedding traditions you probably dismissed as being just that -- traditions, but in fact, many of them stemmed from superstitions.

It was hard to stick to just a few for this episode. So we’re going to touch on a bunch.

For the month of March, I’ll be looking at the stories behind common superstitions and symbols of luck.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Wedding Luck and Superstitions

This episode is dedicated to my friend Tracy and her soon-to-be husband Chris who are getting married in a few short weeks. (I have yet to consult Emily Post to see if dedicating a podcast episode is considered a good wedding present, though.)

Love this series? GET THE CD! The entire Luck & Superstitions series is available on CD -- the perfect gift for people who love trivia but aren't into podcasts (yet). http://kunaki.com/sales.asp?PID=PX00ZI65G5

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Like this series? BUY THE CD of the entire Luck & Superstition Series!

Got a favorite podcast? Use the hashtag #TryPod to let others know about it through the month of March.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/queen-victoria-sparked-white-wedding-dress-trend-1840-180953550/

http://www.cnn.com/2013/09/06/living/matrimony-superstitions/

http://superstitiondictionary.com/wedding-superstitions-good-and-bad-luck/

http://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/advice/a4572/ridiculous-wedding-superstitions/

http://www.snopes.com/weddings/customs/dress.asp

http://www.snopes.com/weddings/customs/notsee.asp

http://www.snopes.com/weddings/customs/bridesmaid.asp

http://www.snopes.com/weddings/customs/ring.asp

http://www.snopes.com/weddings/customs/cake.asp

http://mentalfloss.com/article/57821/21-historical-roles-and-responsibilities-wedding-party

http://www.brides.com/story/wedding-superstitions-what-they-mean

http://mentalfloss.com/article/18915/bizarre-origins-8-wedding-traditions

http://people.howstuffworks.com/groom-carry-bride1.htm

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Ever wonder why it’s bad luck to open an umbrella indoors? Or why breaking a mirror is said to bring seven years of bad luck? Or why you shouldn't walk under a ladder? Or maybe you’ve always wondered why horseshoes are said to bring luck.

For the month of March, I’ll be looking at the stories behind common superstitions and symbols of luck.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Luck in the Home.

Love this series? GET THE CD! The entire Luck & Superstitions series is available on CD -- the perfect gift for people who love trivia but aren't into podcasts (yet). http://kunaki.com/sales.asp?PID=PX00ZI65G5

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Got a favorite podcast? Use the hashtag #TryPod to let others know about it through the month of March.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.snopes.com/luck/superstition/breakmirror.asp

http://wonderopolis.org/wonder/is-it-bad-luck-to-open-an-umbrella-indoors-2

http://people.howstuffworks.com/open-umbrella-indoors.htm

http://www.livescience.com/33179-does-human-body-replace-cells-seven-years.html

http://www.brainjet.com/random/1182/how-9-famous-superstitions-came-to-be/

http://www.mirrorhistory.com/mirror-facts/broken-mirror/

http://psychiclibrary.com/beyondBooks/ladder-superstition/

http://people.howstuffworks.com/why-is-walking-under-ladder-unlucky.htm

http://goodlucksymbols.com/good-luck-horseshoe/

http://www.csicop.org/superstition/library/horseshoes

http://www.livescience.com/33116-lucky-horseshoes.html

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Ever wonder why you’re supposed to throw salt over your shoulder if you spill some? Or why garlic is said to be protection against vampires? Or just how many superstitions are linked to the egg?

For the month of March, I’ll be looking at the stories behind common superstitions and symbols of luck.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Lucky Food.

Love this series? GET THE CD! The entire Luck & Superstitions series is available on CD -- the perfect gift for people who love trivia but aren't into podcasts (yet). http://kunaki.com/sales.asp?PID=PX00ZI65G5

The role of Aristotle was played by Ryan from Kuldrin’s Krypt.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Got a favorite podcast? Use the hashtag #TryPod to let others know about it through the month of March.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

https://www.thoughtco.com/salt-folklore-and-magic-2562502

http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/worth-ones-salt.html

http://www.cracked.com/article_21686_5-awesome-technologies-created-by-ancient-civilizations.html

https://www.jw.org/en/publications/books/bible-stories/2/lots-wife/

http://people.howstuffworks.com/why-do-people-throw-salt-over-shoulders.htm

http://listverse.com/2009/03/25/10-odd-superstitions-about-food/

http://www.rd.com/health/beauty/13-surprising-benefits-of-garlic/

https://books.google.com/books?id=YHCCX5B77MYC&pg=PA20&lpg=PA20&dq=Mohammedan+garden+of+eden+garlic+onion&source=bl&ots=R0P6IOC-Sd&sig=QdA5O8K43GwoeOH7XDOxak5Oeds&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjV5cLNjcrSAhVBVmMKHYGED9UQ6AEIOjAC#v=onepage&q=Mohammedan%20garden%20of%20eden%20garlic%20onion&f=false

https://books.google.com/books?id=sTtIDQAAQBAJ&pg=PA32&lpg=PA32&dq=%22gave+me+the+herb,+drawing+it+from+the+ground%22&source=bl&ots=oe-epC_yB4&sig=8Y_ReSjX34c5epE2MDdUk0KlBZY&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjSs6eEkMrSAhVT0WMKHRjtA2IQ6AEIMjAD#v=onepage&q=%22gave%20me%20the%20herb%2C%20drawing%20it%20from%20the%20ground%22&f=false

http://discovermagazine.com/2015/nov/17-rooted-in-truth

http://www.herballegacy.com/Porritt_History.html

http://americanfolklore.net/folklore/2010/10/garlic_superstitions_folklore.html

http://people.howstuffworks.com/why-are-people-superstitious-about-double-yolked-eggs.htm

http://www.snopes.com/science/equinox.asp

http://goodlucksymbols.com/easter-eggs/

https://www.catholiccompany.com/getfed/mary-magdalene-first-easter-egg/

http://greece.greekreporter.com/2012/04/13/why-we-dye-eggs-red-at-easter/

https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/anthropology-in-practice/beyond-ishtar-the-tradition-of-eggs-at-easter/

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It’s no wonder athletes can be incredibly superstitious. The difference between winging a game or a medal can mean the difference between a giant sum of money and endorsements versus getting little or nothing in return for all the hard work they put in. Why not try anything to add to their success? You would think Michael Jordan wouldn’t have needed luck, but he helped popularize longer basketball shorts because he would wear his old college shorts from North Carolina for good luck underneath.

I even heard from some listeners about their favorite superstitions.

Dan Brenic from the Netflix and Swill podcast has mentioned he grows a playoff beard; and listener Jarrod Taylor says whenever he’s watching a game with his favorite team, if they start losing, he’ll change the channel, and if they start coming back, he won’t watch the rest of the game.

Even my husband is normally a complete skeptic, until it comes to hockey and his beloved New York Rangers. Every year around playoffs, he puts away his razor and grows his annual playoff beard. And when he played hockey growing up, he told me he would put his pads and uniform on in the same order every time.

For the month of March, I’ll be looking at the stories behind common superstitions and symbols of luck.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Sports Superstitions & Curses.

Love this series? GET THE CD! The entire Luck & Superstitions series is available on CD -- the perfect gift for people who love trivia but aren't into podcasts (yet). http://kunaki.com/sales.asp?PID=PX00ZI65G5

The role of William Sianus was played by Dave Jackson from The School of Podcasting.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Got a favorite podcast? Use the hashtag #TryPod to let others know about it through the month of March.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.mensfitness.com/life/sports/10-most-superstitious-athletes

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/47396364/no-hitters-present-quandary-for-broadcasters/

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/38720-turk-wendell-10-reasons-to-love-the-eccentric-pitcher

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/375113-top-mlb-superstitions-and-rituals

http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/worklife/04/24/weird.baseball.contracts/

http://www.nbcnews.com/news/sports/chicago-cubs-bury-curse-first-world-series-title-108-years-n677091

https://web.archive.org/web/20130120062629/http://www.clevescene.com/gyrobase/the-curse-of-chief-wahoo/Content?oid=2954423&showFullText=true

http://www.scout.com/mlb/indians/story/940059-ex-tribe-manager-bragan-dies-at-92

http://redwings.ice.nhl.com/club/page.htm?id=43781

View Details

Ever wonder why a four-leaf clover is considered lucky? Or what, exactly, luck of the Irish is and why are the Irish associated with luck? And are leprechauns supposed to be good spirits? Or bad spirits?

For the month of March, I’ll be looking at the stories behind common superstitions and symbols of luck. And considering this episode is hitting right around St. Patrick’s Day, I thought it would be fun to touch on these superstitions surrounding the Irish culture.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Luck of the Irish.

Love this series? GET THE CD! The entire Luck & Superstitions series is available on CD -- the perfect gift for people who love trivia but aren't into podcasts (yet). http://kunaki.com/sales.asp?PID=PX00ZI65G5

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Got a favorite podcast? Use the hashtag #TryPod to let others know about it through the month of March.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

“Lep in the Hood” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mlufxatPxnA

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://mentalfloss.com/article/30236/luck-irish-old-mining-expression

http://www.theemeraldisle.org/irish-sayings/luck-of-the-irish.htm

http://www.livescience.com/37626-leprechauns.html

https://www.thrillist.com/eat/nation/lucky-charms-50th-anniversary-things-you-didn-t-know-about-the-general-mills-cereal-thrillist-nation

https://www.irishindeed.com/legend-of-the-shamrock

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2010/09/21/national/56-leaf-clover-new-guinness-record/#.WLsFpFXytD8

http://people.howstuffworks.com/why-are-four-leaf-clovers-lucky.htm

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Have you ever gotten into an elevator of a hotel and noticed the buttons went from 12 to 14, skipping the number 13? It’s not as if the 13th floor is actually missing, though -- the 13th floor was just named the 14th floor. Believe it or not, this more common than you may think. Or gone to a casino and saw sevens everywhere?

For the month of March, I’ll be looking at the stories behind common superstitions and symbols of luck.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Lucky Numbers.

Love this series? GET THE CD! The entire Luck & Superstitions series is available on CD -- the perfect gift for people who love trivia but aren't into podcasts (yet). http://kunaki.com/sales.asp?PID=PX00ZI65G5

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Got a favorite podcast? Use the hashtag #TryPod to let others know about it through the month of March.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.beyondhogwarts.com/harry-potter/articles/an-introduction-to-arithmancy.html

http://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/extrasensory-perceptions/numerology.htm

http://www.crystalinks.com/numerologypyth.html

(The Philosophy of NUmbers by Mrs. L. Dow Balliet) https://archive.org/stream/philosophyofnum00ball#page/n5/mode/2up

https://www.orbitz.com/blog/2015/02/friday-13th-truth-behind-hotels-missing-13th-floors/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201109/7-reasons-we-7-reasons

http://www.biblestudy.org/bibleref/meaning-of-numbers-in-bible/7.html

http://www.bibleinfo.com/en/questions/what-are-seven-deadly-sins

https://www.lolcraps.com/craps/odds/

http://mentalfloss.com/article/54852/13-sleeping-beauty-facts-are-anything-snooze

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/02/0212_040212_friday13.html

http://mentalfloss.com/article/23266/13-reasons-people-think-number-13-unlucky

View Details

Ever wonder why rabbits and their feet are associated with luck? Or why even though fear of spiders is especially popular, many associate them with luck and prosperity? Or why cats, and especially black cats, carry so many superstitions?

For the month of March, I’ll be looking at the stories behind common superstitions and symbols of luck.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Lucky Animals.

The role of E.B. White was played by Jason Bryant from Mat Talk Online.

Love this series? GET THE CD! The entire Luck & Superstitions series is available on CD -- the perfect gift for people who love trivia but aren't into podcasts (yet). http://kunaki.com/sales.asp?PID=PX00ZI65G5

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2013/12/rabbits-foot-considered-lucky/

http://www.csicop.org/superstition/library/rabbits_foot

http://www.csicop.org/superstition/library/spiders

http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/easter-symbols

http://mentalfloss.com/article/67639/10-things-you-might-not-know-about-charlottes-web

http://people.com/pets/10-lucky-animals-that-can-help-you-win-the-powerball-jackpot/cats

http://goodlucksymbols.com/spider-symbolism/

http://www.luckymojo.com/spider.html

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/why-we-worry/201407/why-are-we-afraid-spiders

http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2010/09/why-black-cats-are-considered-bad-luck/

https://archive.org/stream/discoverieofwitc00scot/discoverieofwitc00scot_djvu.txt

http://oddrandomthoughts.com/the-myths-and-legends-of-cats/#ixzz4a86T4PMt

http://kidworldcitizen.org/2013/11/10/anansi-stories-trickster-spider-west-africa-caribbean/

http://kindnessforcats.rescuegroups.org/info/display?PageID=7189

http://www.animalplanet.com/tv-shows/must-love-cats/videos/the-legend-of-maneki-neko/

http://www.cracked.com/article_18963_6-cats-more-badass-than-you-and-most-superheroes.html

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Ever wonder why actors say “Break a leg” instead of “Good luck?” Or why Macbeth is supposedly cursed? Or why you shouldn’t whistle backstage?

For the month of March, I’ll be looking at the stories behind common superstitions and symbols of luck.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Theater Superstitions.

Love this series? GET THE CD! The entire Luck & Superstitions series is available on CD -- the perfect gift for people who love trivia but aren't into podcasts (yet). http://kunaki.com/sales.asp?PID=PX00ZI65G5

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Got a favorite podcast? Use the hashtag #TryPod to let others know about it through the month of March.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2012/11/origin-of-the-phrase-break-a-leg/

http://www.theatrecrafts.com/pages/home/glossary-of-technical-theatre-terms/more-about-break-a-leg/

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/film/macbeth/scottish_play_curse/

http://www.history.com/news/ask-history/why-do-actors-avoid-the-word-macbeth

https://www.santacruzshakespeare.org/the-macbeth-curse-myth-or-reality/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/1988/01/28/macbeth-curse-of-the-stage/b80659e4-369d-4ef4-b772-edee79d75d5a/?utm_term=.f12b6f731d40

https://www.backstage.com/news/9-serious-theatrical-superstitions/

http://www.playbill.com/article/8-rules-every-theatre-person-must-follow-do-you-know-all-of-them-com-373336

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Rabbit, rabbit! New month, new theme, everyone!

Ever wonder why we believe in luck and superstitions? In the simplest terms, our brains are wired to look for patterns and it’s not just human brains. And once we determine the effects of a certain pattern, our brains make that connection between our behavior and the effect, even if they aren’t scientifically connected. And this could be for good luck or bad luck.

For the month of March, I’ll be looking at the stories behind common superstitions and symbols of luck. In this episode, we’re starting the series with a general look at how humans have believed in luck and superstitions, as well as a look at just how often we don’t notice we do things out of habit that may be considered superstitious.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Luck and Superstitions.

Love this series? GET THE CD! The entire Luck & Superstitions series is available on CD -- the perfect gift for people who love trivia but aren't into podcasts (yet). http://kunaki.com/sales.asp?PID=PX00ZI65G5

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://simonedigital.com/avoid-broken-hair-by-not-going-outside-with-wet-hair-in-the-winter/

http://icedjamb.com/humans-arent-the-only-ones-who-believe-in-superstitions/

http://www.simplypsychology.org/classical-conditioning.html

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=248041250

https://www.theguardian.com/notesandqueries/query/0,5753,-18136,00.html

https://www.psychologistworld.com/superstition.php

http://totallyhistory.com/salem-witch-trials/

http://www.pitlanemagazine.com/cultures/belief-in-superstitions-and-their-effect-on-our-lives.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_people_executed_for_witchcraft#cnote_A

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In 1994, a movie came along about a man of low intelligence who happens to hit a few lucky breaks, weaving himself in and out of the timeline of American history, and into the hearts of millions of movie-goers. That man was Forrest. Forrest Gump.

For the month of February, I focused episode topics on historical and pop culture references in the movie. This is the last episode of the series, in which we talk about the book that inspired the movie, the soundtrack everyone in my high school had and wore out, and the cultural impact of this modern-day classic. And, because I couldn’t just talk about this film by myself, I have a special guest with me for this episode.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, with Nick from the Epic Film Guys, and this is The Story Behind Forrest Gump.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Alan Silvestri - The Feather Theme from the "Forrest Gump" Soundtrack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEY3o00LRHI

Sources:

http://www.mtv.com/news/1922408/forrest-gump-trivia/

http://mentalfloss.com/node/31001&utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Partner&utm_campaign=allthatisinteresting

http://articles.baltimoresun.com/1995-03-27/features/1995086082_1_forrest-gump-man-forrest-book-and-movie

http://www.mtv.com/news/1922456/forrest-gump-sequel/

http://www.slashfilm.com/911-killed-the-forrest-gump-sequel/

http://www.npr.org/2016/10/03/496412606/why-it-took-forrest-gump-author-nearly-20-years-to-write-a-new-novel

https://www.pastemagazine.com/blogs/lists/2013/03/10-songs-inspired-by-movie-characters.html

http://www.alansilvestri.com/movie-clips.htm

http://www.wqxr.org/#!/story/alan-silvestri-back-future-forrest-gump-and-his-hollywood-break/

http://ew.com/article/1994/07/15/gumpisms-wit-and-wisdom-forrest-gump/

http://www.laweekly.com/arts/we-need-to-talk-about-forrest-gump-5045629

http://ew.com/article/1994/07/15/gumpisms-wit-and-wisdom-forrest-gump/

http://www.nytimes.com/1994/09/01/movies/following-the-star-of-a-winsome-idiot.html?scp=28&sq=Forrest%20Gump&st=cse

View Details

In 1994, a movie came along about a man of low intelligence who happens to hit a few lucky breaks, weaving himself in and out of the timeline of American history, and into the hearts of millions of movie-goers. That man was Forrest. Forrest Gump.

For the month of February, I’ll be focusing episode topics on historical and pop culture references in the movie. Ones you may have missed when watching the film because of the overwhelming emotion attached to every scene, or ones you may only be familiar with on the surface.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about the advances in medicine that made Lieutenant Dan’s new legs possible, from the beginnings in ancient times, through the advances made in the field following World War 2 and through today.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Prosthetics.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKFKRuWwgjg

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.acpoc.org/newsletters-and-journals/1976_05_015.asp

http://www.livescience.com/4555-world-prosthetic-egyptian-mummy-fake-toe.html

https://www.historiclewes.org/news/19th-century-prosthetic-leg

http://www.wired.co.uk/article/darpa-creates-feeling-prosthetic-arm

https://www.pastemagazine.com/blogs/lists/2011/11/five-musicians-with-missing-and-damaged-fingers.html

http://www.karlofgermany.com/Goetz.htm

http://foundationsoftechweeblysiteproject.weebly.com/timeline.html

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4128433/

http://www.islandpacket.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/david-lauderdale/article33436038.html

http://www.ancientegyptonline.co.uk/osiris.html

https://todayinsci.com/Events/Patent/ArtificialLeg37637.htm

http://www.livescience.com/43125-man-gets-first-bionic-hand-that-feels.html

View Details

In 1994, a movie came along about a man of low intelligence who happens to hit a few lucky breaks, weaving himself in and out of the timeline of American history, and into the hearts of millions of movie-goers. That man was Forrest. Forrest Gump.

For the month of February, I'll be focusing episode topics on historical and pop culture references in the movie. Ones you may have missed when watching the film because of the overwhelming emotion attached to every scene, or ones you may only be familiar with on the surface.

In this episode, we'll talk about the $45 drawing that was meant to boost morale in a company, and how that design became so ubiquitous, it's seen all over the world, including on our phones in the form of emojis.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind The Smiley Face.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOHr85z9k64

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/who-really-invented-the-smiley-face-2058483/

http://www.smileycompany.com/smile/history/

http://www.smiley.com/

http://www.legacy.com/news/culture-and-trends/article/10-things-about-harvey-ball-and-his-famous-smiley-face

View Details

In 1994, a movie came along about a man of low intelligence who happens to hit a few lucky breaks, weaving himself in and out of the timeline of American history, and into the hearts of millions of movie-goers. That man was Forrest. Forrest Gump.

For the month of February, I’ll be focusing episode topics on historical and pop culture references in the movie. Ones you may have missed when watching the film because of the overwhelming emotion attached to every scene, or ones you may only be familiar with on the surface.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about the song that seemed to be inspired when Forrest Gump and John Lennon appeared on the Dick Cavett Show. It was as if you could see the gears turning in Lennon’s head as Forrest explained to him what China was like, and the beginnings of Lennon’s most successful single from his solo career.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Imagine.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWD8YI1Mqhs

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.biography.com/news/john-lennon-imagine-song-facts

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/the-500-greatest-songs-of-all-time-20110407/john-lennon-imagine-20110516

http://www.rebeatmag.com/9-myths-about-john-lennon-and-the-far-more-interesting-truths/

http://www.biography.com/people/john-lennon-9379045#early-life

http://www.centralparknyc.org/things-to-see-and-do/attractions/strawberry-fields.html?referrer=https://www.google.com/

https://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/jan/03/cee-lo-green-john-lennon

http://www.chestnuthilllocal.com/2012/05/17/john-lennons-imagine-meets-the-dsm/

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/12/john-lennon-closing-ceremony-imagine-olympics_n_1770882.html?utm_hp_ref=mostpopular

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imagine_(John_Lennon_song)#Charts_and_certifications

https://secondhandsongs.com/work/5917/versions#nav-entity

https://web.archive.org/web/20121014153533/http://www.theprovince.com/entertainment/Today+Music+History/7345666/story.html

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-396625/John-Lennons-Imagine-banned-school-anti-religious-lyrics.html

http://www.john-lennon.com/imaginebanned.htm

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/719027/Liverpool-Airport-to-be-renamed-after-Lennon.html

View Details

In 1994, a movie came along about a man of low intelligence who happens to hit a few lucky breaks, weaving himself in and out of the timeline of American history, and into the hearts of millions of movie-goers. That man is Forrest. Forrest Gump.

For the month of February, I’ll be focusing episode topics on historical and pop culture references in the movie. Ones you may have missed when watching the film because of the overwhelming emotion attached to every scene, or ones you may only be familiar with on the surface.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about the popular victorian parlor sport and how it led to the first Americans visiting China in 20 years, breaking what was known as the bamboo curtain.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Ping-Pong.

The role of Premier Zhou En-lai was played by Fear from Fearcast and FYFCast.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvJ4wh1kwR8

Music for Makers

Sources:

https://www.killerspin.com/blog/table-tennis-through-time-a-brief-history-of-ping-pong/

https://www.killerspin.com/the-history-of-table-tennis

http://www.athleticscholarships.net/history-of-table-tennis.htm

https://www.olympic.org/table-tennis-equipment-and-history

http://www.pongworld.com/more/history.shtml

http://www.businessinsider.com/dartmouth-beer-pong-guide-2013-11

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/26/drinking-games-beer-pong_n_4855917.html

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/china/peopleevents/pande07.html

http://www.history.com/news/ping-pong-diplomacy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUOiJOqrHlI

http://www.avclub.com/article/tom-hanks-had-some-cgi-help-his-forrest-gump-ping--235793

http://articles.latimes.com/1994-07-10/entertainment/ca-14048_1_gary-sinise

https://storify.com/kendrakahn/how-cgi-technology-allowed-forrest-gump-meet-john

View Details

In 1994, a movie came along about a man of low intelligence who happens to hit a few lucky breaks, weaving himself in and out of the timeline of American history, and into the hearts of millions of movie-goers. That man was Forrest. Forrest Gump.

For the month of February, I’ll be focusing episode topics on historical and pop culture references in the movie. Ones you may have missed when watching the film because of the overwhelming emotion attached to every scene, or ones you may only be familiar with on the surface.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about Forrest’s favorite and America’s oldest major soft drink. Beginning as a wellness tonic in a drugstore in Waco, Texas, its flavors are hard to pinpoint, exactly.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Dr Pepper.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSEdBNslGOk

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.drpeppermuseum.com/about-us/history-of-dr--pepper.aspx

http://mentalfloss.com/article/67514/11-things-you-might-not-know-about-dr-pepper

http://www.dmagazine.com/publications/d-magazine/1975/september/dr-pepper-takes-on-coke/

https://www.drpeppersnapplegroup.com/company/history

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/news/solved-mystery-of-dr-peppers-secret-recipe-1679012.html

http://inventors.about.com/od/famousinventors/fl/The-History-of-Dr-Pepper.htm

http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2010/02/dr-pepper-is-the-oldest-major-soft-drink-in-the-united-states/

https://www.drpeppersnapplegroup.com/company/history

http://theroanoker.com/interests/history/one-year-in-roanoke%3A-1957/

View Details

In 1994, a movie came along about a man of low intelligence who happens to hit a few lucky breaks, weaving himself in and out of the timeline of American history, and into the hearts of millions of movie-goers. That man is Forrest. Forrest Gump.

For the month of February, I’ll be focusing episode topics on historical and pop culture references in the movie. Ones you may have missed when watching the film because of the overwhelming emotion attached to every scene, or ones you may only be familiar with on the surface.

In this episode, we’ll talk about the history behind desegregation of schools, Alabama Governor Wallace and the reasons for his stance, and how this led to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This episode may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Stand in the Schoolhouse Door.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eluXKOqxM28

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1rd6xfGg5s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLLDn7MjbF0

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.usnews.com/news/blogs/press-past/2013/06/11/george-wallace-stood-in-a-doorway-at-the-university-of-alabama-50-years-ago-today

http://www.archives.alabama.gov/govs_list/schooldoor.html

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/primary-resources/jfk-desegregation/

http://www.history.com/topics/black-history/plessy-v-ferguson

https://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/brown-v-board/timeline.html

http://www.pbs.org/wnet/supremecourt/rights/landmark_brown.html

https://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2012/12/in-southern-towns-segregation-academies-are-still-going-strong/266207/

http://www.encyclopediaofalabama.org/article/h-3421

http://www.history.com/topics/black-history/civil-rights-act

http://www.npr.org/2003/06/11/1294680/wallace-in-the-schoolhouse-door

View Details

In 1994, a story came along about a man of low intelligence who happens to hit a few lucky breaks, weaving himself in and out of the timeline of American history, and into the hearts of millions of movie-goers. That man is Forrest. Forrest Gump.

For the month of February, I’ll be focusing episode topics on historical and pop culture references in the movie. Ones you may have missed when watching the film because of the overwhelming emotion attached to every scene, or ones you may only be familiar with on the surface.

In this episode, we’re starting at the beginning of the movie, with the man Forrest Gump was named after. Some of the content may not be suitable for all listeners.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Nathan Bedford Forrest.

The role of General Sherman was played by Mark from the Unskippable podcast and the band And Robots. And Mat from The One Word, Go! Show played the role of Nathan Bedford Forrest.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raVFzZZLp3A

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.history.com/topics/american-civil-war/nathan-bedford-forrest

http://www.civilwar.org/education/history/biographies/nathan-bedford-forrest.html?referrer=https://www.google.com/#

http://www.nytimes.com/learning/general/onthisday/bday/0713.html

http://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn83045160/1875-07-06/ed-1/seq-1/

https://books.google.com/books?id=0MvlfHVwVNwC&pg=PA474&lpg=PA474&dq=nathan+bedford+forrest+offers+services+to+sherman&source=bl&ots=bCih0lmWwh&sig=OSMtiIFWsrpFQlrT1EVieUXyRvQ&hl=en&sa=X&ei=_AXDU7-0DZSlyASm-IDwBQ&ved=0CEEQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=nathan%20bedford%20forrest%20klan&f=false

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-a-tures/general-nathan-bedford-fo_b_7734444.html

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This episode was decided by listeners who responded to a poll I put up last week on Twitter asking if I should do a regular show for Episode 30 or if I should do a special episode with 30 random facts. If you’re not already, follow @storybehindpod on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram so you can contribute to the show.

What you decided was episode 30 should be 30 random facts, so without further ado, here we go!

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind 30 Random Things.

• Many things we eat and drink contain grass. Not the kinds that necessarily grow in our yards, but varieties like wheat grass and barley grass are found in beer, whiskey and bread.
• A way to distinguish a monkey from an ape is their tails. Apes don’t have tails, but monkeys do.
• Yams commonly found in your grocery store are probably sweet potatoes. True yams grow in Africa and Asia and are relatively tough to find. They are related to the lily family, while sweet potatoes are related to the morning glory family. But grocery stores distinguish sweet potatoes as being a firm sweet potato with a light flesh and a yam as being a soft sweet potato with a more orange or copper color.

• The moons and natural satellites of Uranis were named for characters in works by William Shakespeare and Alexander Pope, like Ophelia, Juliet, Belinda and Umbriel. The tradition was started by astronomer William Lassell, who discovered the first two in 1851.

  • Cordelia from King Lear
  • Ophelia from Hamlet
  • Bianca from Taming of the Shrew
  • Cressida from Troilus and Cressida
  • Desdemona from Othello
  • Juliet from Romeo and Juliet
  • Portia from Merchant of Venice
  • Rosalind from As You Like It
  • Belinda, Umbriel from Rape of Lock
  • Puck, Titania and Oberon from A Midsummer Night's Dream
  • Miranda, Ariel, Caliban, Sycorax, Prospero, Setebos, Stephano and Trinculo from The Tempest
  • Hades, from Greek mythology, is not the basis for Satan in Christianity. Hades isn’t necessarily a bad guy -- his job is simply to guard the Underworld, which is where all souls were believed to have gone when they died. There are parts of the Underworld where evil souls are tortured, much like Christianity’s description of Hell, but souls considered good are rewarded in the Underworld.
  • Erasers work by attracting the graphite from pencils off the paper and onto the rubber. Before our modern-day erasers, people would often use balled up bread to fix their mistakes on paper.
  • Raisins were discovered accidentally when a San Fransisco grocer began selling grapes that had been dried out due to the heat wave 1873. He called them a “Peruvian Delicacy.”
  • Eclair is the French word for Lightning. It’s unclear why the cream-filled pastry is named that. One theory is that the name refers to the flaky outside and creamy inside being “light,” and a second theory is that it’s eaten in a flash.
  • Shirley Temple has fought soda companies twice for trying to market the ginger ale and grenadine drink named in her honor. Both times, she won. In 1988 when a California company tried to market Shirley T. Sparkling Soda, she was quoted by the New York Times as saying, “I will fight it like a tigress. All a celebrity has is their name.”
  • If you’ve ever wondered where the phrase “Steal one’s thunder” comes from, it’s from John Dennis, an English dramatist from the 1700s, who invented a device for one of his plays that made a thunder sound. When his play flopped, the theater used the device for another play, causing Dennis to say, “That is my thunder, by God; the villains will play my thunder, but not my play.”
  • “Steal my Sunshine,” the poppy ‘90s favorite by the brother-sister band Len isn’t actually as positive as the title implies. It’s been said the lyrics either refer to drugs or depression and how someone can make you feel worse by stealing your sunshine.

  • The word “sychophant,” which basically means a self-serving suck up, has two possible origins. Both are pretty great.

  • The first is that it comes from the Greek words “suko,” which means Fig, and “phantes,” which means people who reveal something. Back then, those who exported figs were doing so illegally, and anyone who told on them to authorities was called a Fig Revealer, or Suko-Phant. But the Oxford English Dictionary acknowledges this origin story to be unsubstantiated.

  • The second origin comes from the Greek “sykophantes”, the Latin “sycophanta” and the Middle French version, “sycophante” in the 1530s, which also has to do with figs. In ancient Greece, it was a vulgar gesture to stick ones thumb between two fingers, which was thought to resemble a fig. It doesn’t sound too bad until you find out that a fig was symbolic of a certain lady part. This gesture was commonly used as a taunt in Greek sporting events.
  • Antarctica is the world’s largest desert. Hard to believe, right? But a desert is actually defined not by sand or heat, but by the amount of precipitation it receives, and Antarctica only gets an average of 2 inches of snow per year.
  • New words are added to English language at a rate of one new word every two hours.
  • Coca-Cola bottles were designed when the company sponsored a competition to design distinctive bottles. At the time, all beverages were put in similar bottles, making it difficult to making it difficult to distinguish one drink from the other when kept cool in a bucket of ice water. The designer of the bottles originally wanted to draw inspiration from the coca leaf or kola nut, but the local library didn’t have pictures of either. But he came up with the now iconic design of the Coca-Cola bottle after finding a picture of a cacao pod.
  • “Enormity” is often thought to mean enormous, but it actually means extreme evil. It can be used, however, to mean a gigantic amount of evil.
  • Remember the movie in which Sinbad played a genie called “Shazam?” Or reading the childhood books, “The Berenstein Bears” or even Curious George’s tail? Yeah … those actually never happened. At least, according to what people are calling The Mandela Effect, a phenomenon where many swear they remember something one way, but it’s actually different. By the way, there’s no record of the movie Shazam, the books we read as kids were actually the BerenstAin Bears, and Curious George does not have a tail, which suggests he’s an ape rather than a “little monkey,” as he’s called in books.
  • Eyes that are two different colors on a person is called Heterochromia. Some people mistakenly think David Bowie had this, but one of his pupils was permanently dilated his friend’s fingernail sliced his eye when they got into a fight as teenagers.
  • Mozart was so good at playing music at a young age, when he performed in London, people suspected him of being a drawf posing as a 9-year-old child.
  • Austrian actress Hedy Lamarr wanted to help the war effort during World War II and, with the help of composer George Antheil, developed wireless communications technology we still use today in everyday objects such as cell phones.
  • In “The Big Lebowski,” the word Dude is used 161 times and “man” is used 147.
  • No one really knows why sometimes we get the sensation of falling when we’re about to fall asleep. It’s called a hypnic jerk and one theory is it’s a leftover response from when humans used to sleep on branches in trees.
  • V for Victory was popularized by Winston Churchill during World War II. But it was first proposed as a symbol for resistance to tyranny by Victor de Laveleye who was exiled to England after the Nazi invasion of Belgium in 1940.
  • In case you ever wanted to kiss a baby iguana on the mouth, you might want to be aware that they often eat the poop of adult iguanas to get bacteria necessary for digesting their food.
  • George Orwell’s “1984,” written in 1949, shot to the top of Amazon Best-Sellers last week, which for those of you listening in the future was the second to last week of January 2017 following a number of references to the book on Twitter after Trump counselor Kellyanne Conway's statement that White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer used "alternative facts" when describing Inauguration Day.
  • If you see a representation of a pirate wearing an eye patch, it’s most likely not because he lost his eye -- a theory, which was deemed Plausible by “Mythbusters,” is that wearing an eye patch kept that eye’s pupil dilated so seeing in the dark was easier when the patch was removed. Having this skill was handy when pirates had to go below deck quickly.
  • Lincoln’s famous beard was grown because 11-year-old Grace Bedell of Westfield, New York, wrote him a letter suggesting growing a beard to hide his gaunt face before the upcoming presidential election. On the way to his inauguration, he made a special stop in Westfield to meet Bedell and, shaking her hand, said,“You see? I let these whiskers grow for you.”
  • As much as fans love him, Darth Vader only appears on screen for a total of 12 minutes in the original Star Wars.
  • Not that I recommend you try it, but Romans used to effectively whiten their teeth with urine.
  • There are two theories most probable about the origin of pink lemonade. Neither of them involve adding strawberry or raspberry to the mixture, as is common today and both involve the circus. One is that red cinnamon candies were accidentally dropped in a vat of lemonade in 1912 and, because there wasn’t enough time to make a new batch, the lemonade was sold and became a hit. The second is that a lemonade salesman at the circus in 1857 ran out of water to make lemonade and grabbed a tub of water that was previously used to wash a performer’s pink tights.

The role of Shirley Temple was played by Laura McClellan from The Productive Woman podcast, John Dennis was played by Danny Savage from the podcast Idiom Savant, and Stargate Pioneer from Better Podcasting played Abraham Lincoln.

Starting Thursday, The Story Behind will be doing more consecutive theme episodes starting with Forrest Gump February. Each episode will be the story behind a different pop culture or historical reference from the Tom Hanks movie. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss an episode.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

https://www.taskeasy.com/blog/2015/08/10/10-interesting-facts-about-grass/

http://facts.randomhistory.com/2008/12/15_monkeys.html

http://www.thekitchn.com/whats-the-difference-between-yams-and-sweet-potatoes-word-of-mouth-211176

http://www.livescience.com/38592-biggest-deserts.html

http://myths.e2bn.org/mythsandlegends/userstory20411-hades-vs-satan.html

http://mobile-cuisine.com/did-you-know/raisin-fun-facts/

http://www.wordcentral.com/cgi-bin/student?eclair

http://wonderopolis.org/wonder/how-does-an-eraser-work

http://www.women-inventors.com/Hedy-Lammar.asp

http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=sycophant

http://www.rd.com/funny-stuff/funny-origins-behind-idioms-you-use-all-the-time/

https://www.buzzfeed.com/expresident/truly-surprising-word-origins?utm_term=.tu12gj6Me#.cjLVG2ax1

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2017/01/25/orwells-1984-leaps-top-amazon-bestseller-list/97031344/

http://mentalfloss.com/article/24479/5-things-you-didnt-know-about-shirley-temple

http://mashable.com/2014/01/25/dark-90s-songs/#1dNPs1ejkPqH

http://ohfact.com/interesting-facts-about-iguana/

https://www.bloomsbury-international.com/blog/2014/07/11/15-interesting-facts-about-the-english-language/

http://www.cracked.com/photoplasty_519_30-mind-blowing-true-facts-about-famous-movie-scenes/

http://listverse.com/2014/06/30/10-easy-questions-we-still-dont-know-the-answer-to/

http://www.snopes.com/cokelore/bottle.asp

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/the-58-most-commonly-misused-words-and-phrases-a6754551.html

https://www.buzzfeed.com/christopherhudspeth/crazy-examples-of-the-mandela-effect-that-will-make-you-ques?utm_term=.uqV0816Lg#.lln3R9qYK

http://scienceblogs.com/gregladen/2014/05/19/is-curious-george-an-ape-or-a-monkey/

http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/heterochromia.htm

http://mentalfloss.com/article/27273/nine-people-heterochromia-and-one-without

http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/top10facts/638180/Top-10-facts-Wolfgang-Amadeus-Mozart

http://www.thisdayinquotes.com/2011/01/origin-of-v-for-victory.html

http://mentalfloss.com/article/52493/why-did-pirates-wear-eye-patches
http://time.com/3462545/abraham-lincoln-beard/

http://io9.gizmodo.com/some-people-use-urine-and-chemistry-to-whiten-their-t-1662270403

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/unusual-origins-pink-lemonade-180960145/

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This week’s theme was inspired by the title of my favorite song from Elton John, which is Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters. You don’t have to be familiar with the song to listen to the episodes, but if you haven’t, it’s one of the more underrated of his songs. On Monday, we talked about how the da Vinci painting wasn’t as famous until it was stolen in 1911 and how our mind tricks us into seeing Mona Lisa’s smile sometimes and other times, not as much.

In this episode, I’m getting into the second part of the Elton John song title. From unknown mercury poisoning in hat factories to the man known for inspiring the character in Lewis Carroll’s book “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” and through today, even though the actual occupational disease doesn’t occur anymore.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Mad Hatters.

The role of Johnny Depp was played by Nick from The Epic Film Guys podcast.

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Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.cas.org/news/insights/science-connections/mad-hatter

http://www.medicinenet.com/mercury_poisoning/article.htm

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1550196/?page=1

http://www.naturalnews.com/016544.html

http://www.history.com/news/ask-history/where-did-the-phrase-mad-as-a-hatter-come-from

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/07/weekinreview/07ryan.html

http://www.the-tls.co.uk/articles/public/the-real-mad-hatter/

http://herocomplex.latimes.com/uncategorized/johnny-depp-explains-how-he-picked-his-poison-with-the-mad-hatter/

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This week’s theme was inspired by the title of my favorite song from Elton John, which is Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters. You don’t have to be familiar with the song to listen to the episodes, but if you haven’t, it’s one of the more underrated of his songs. Naturally, we’re starting the week talking about the famous painting and the even more famous smile painted by Leonardo Da Vinci.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about the real-life woman in the painting, how the painting may have achieved its fame because of being stolen and why the smile on the painting’s subject is so mysterious.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind The Mona Lisa

The role of Luc Maspero was played by Fee from The Ultra Podcast.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://mentalfloss.com/article/62280/14-things-you-didnt-know-about-mona-lisa

http://www.ibtimes.com/why-mona-lisa-so-famous-310480

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/stolen-how-the-mona-lisa-became-the-worlds-most-famous-painting-16406234/

http://www.louvre.fr/en/oeuvre-notices/mona-lisa-portrait-lisa-gherardini-wife-francesco-del-giocondo

http://www.history.com/news/ask-history/who-posed-for-leonardo-da-vincis-mona-lisa

https://news.artnet.com/art-world/secret-behind-mona-lisa-smile-discovered-326770

http://www.ibtimes.com/why-mona-lisa-so-famous-310480

http://www.livescience.com/4648-25-secrets-mona-lisa-revealed.html

http://www.livescience.com/32483-why-does-mona-lisas-smile-change.html

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Today’s episode is the second in a two-part series of The Story Behind. The subject of these two episodes couldn’t be contained into just one show. We’ll be celebrating her 95th birthday, which was on Tuesday, January 17th, by dedicating this week to her contribution to television, Hollywood and her various charity works.

In the previous episode, we talked about about her early days in radio and television; her awards and critics; and her title as the First Lady of Game Shows.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about the roles she’s probably best known for, her incredible love of animals and her charity work, and her recent return to the spotlight because of a simple Snickers commercial.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Betty White | Part 2: The Later Years.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXL8QPWLbBo

Sources:

http://mentalfloss.com/article/61054/15-things-you-didnt-know-about-betty-white

http://www.biography.com/people/betty-white-9542614#early-life-and-career

http://www.biography.com/people/betty-white-9542614/videos/betty-white-mini-biography-42155247

http://www.biography.com/people/betty-white-9542614/videos/betty-white-hollywoods-golden-girl-3945539701

http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/betty-white-charlie-sheen-lindsay-lohan-ungrateful-actors-abuse-fame-article-1.111942

http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2013/05/betty-white-facts/

https://www.metv.com/lists/9-things-we-bet-you-never-knew-about-betty-white

http://www.avclub.com/article/how-ithe-mary-tyler-moore-showi-reinvented-the-sit-99172

http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/golden-girls-turns-30-facts-series/story?id=33545250

https://metv.com/lists/11-things-you-might-not-know-about-mamas-family

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXL8QPWLbBo

https://medium.com/@traceylross/30-years-later-the-golden-girls-is-still-the-most-progressive-show-on-television-b63aadd2edec#.8klg5jbd6

http://variety.com/2017/tv/news/hulu-golden-girls-streaming-blackish-1201954868/

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/betty-white-on-her-love-for-animals-92610121/

http://www.animalliberationfront.com/Saints/Actors/BettyWhite.htm

http://www.snopes.com/2016/12/28/gofundme-protecting-betty-white-from-2016/

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This week’s episodes will be a two-part series of The Story Behind. The subject of these two episodes just couldn’t be contained into just one show. So we’ll be celebrating her 95th birthday on Tuesday, January 17th, by dedicating this week to her contribution to television, Hollywood and her various charity works.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about her early days in radio and television; her awards and, surprisingly, her critics; and her title as the First Lady of Game Shows.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Betty White | Part 1: The Early Years.

The role of John Crosby was played by Daniel Repholz from The Toe on the Trigger podcast.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://mentalfloss.com/article/61054/15-things-you-didnt-know-about-betty-white

http://www.biography.com/people/betty-white-9542614#early-life-and-career

http://www.biography.com/people/betty-white-9542614/videos/betty-white-mini-biography-42155247

http://www.biography.com/people/betty-white-9542614/videos/betty-white-hollywoods-golden-girl-3945539701

http://blog.wfmu.org/freeform/2010/04/the-early-betty-white.html

http://gameshows.about.com/od/hostprofiles/tp/Betty-White-The-First-Lady-Of-Game-Shows.htm

http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/betty-white-charlie-sheen-lindsay-lohan-ungrateful-actors-abuse-fame-article-1.111942

http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2013/05/betty-white-facts/

https://www.nwhm.org/blog/throwbackthursday-the-first-ladies-of-game-shows/

https://www.metv.com/lists/9-things-we-bet-you-never-knew-about-betty-white

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__4jVZQ6PIg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7k23zM-eLoI

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Whether you like them sweet or salty, dipped in frosting or mustard, or even if you prefer hard over soft, the snack food we talk about in this episode continues to be a favorite around the world. And, I don’t know about you, but I know it’s tough to pass the kiosk at the mall for these delicious treats without the scent of them tempting me to break every diet I’m ever on.

In this episode, we’ll talk about the religious meaning and origins of these snacks; the different incarnations of them spawned by accidents; and how they’ve become associated with luck, marriage and even helped thwart the attempts of invasion.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Pretzels.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khTS0cU2IgQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMe7mlRv8UE

Sources:

http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2013/06/the-history-of-pretzels/

http://www.history.com/news/hungry-history/the-pretzel-a-twisted-history

http://wonderopolis.org/wonder/how-did-the-pretzel-get-its-shape

http://www.kitchenproject.com/history/Pretzel.htm

http://www.germanfoodguide.com/pretzel.cfm

http://recipes.howstuffworks.com/pretzel-facts.htm

http://articles.latimes.com/2002/jan/14/news/mn-22490

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When this episode comes out, it’ll be the second week of the new year. So … how’s everyone’s diets going? If you’re looking for some motivation, you might want to go back to last week’s episode on The Story Behind the Treadmill because in this episode, we’ll be talking about a certain crunchy, salty, fatty food that’s hard to resist.

Find out the popular origin story of this food, and how it’s actually just a legend; how it became a favorite snack food and went from banned during World War 2 to becoming labeled “essential; and why you can’t just eat one.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Potato Chips.

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Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2014/09/real-story-potato-chip/

http://www.snopes.com/business/origins/chips.asp

http://www.foxnews.com/food-drink/2016/03/14/surprising-history-potato-chips.html

http://invention.si.edu/potato-chip-inventions

https://www.tastemade.com/articles/8-potato-chip-facts-you-cant-stop-popping

http://www.eatthis.com/this-why-its-so-hard-stop-eating-chips

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/philosophy-stirred-not-shaken/201404/can-you-really-become-addicted-potato-chips

http://list25.com/25-unique-potato-chip-flavors-from-around-the-world-you-probably-never-heard-of/

https://books.google.com/books?id=Wq3tvL_uIHcC&pg=PA637&lpg=PA637&dq=potato+chips+world+war+2&source=bl&ots=M-osSWeaM-&sig=XYGclCKkgQSCqEPY0Jz6dNq_Nq8&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwibvc7fzZXRAhVDw4MKHbVfASEQ6AEIbTAU#v=onepage&q=potato%20chips%20world%20war%202&f=false

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Emily's evil twin, Erica, crashes the podcast for this episode! Luckily, Dr. Drake Ramoray, her long-lost brother, who came out of his coma AND recovered from amnesia, was there to save the day and the show!

Only a show on the topic of soap operas could handle such a dramatic introduction. Find out how soap operas came to exist, their rise and fall in popularity, and why they look different from other television shows.

I'm your host, Emily Prokop (or is it Erica???), and this is The Story Behind Soap Operas.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Thanks again to Craig from The Ultra Podcast for coming in an saving the day as Dr. Drake Ramoray, our not-so-subtle nod to our love of "Friends."

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.museum.tv/eotv/soapopera.htm

http://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/11-longest-running-daytime-soap-operas.htm

https://www.otrcat.com/soap-operas-during-the-golden-age-of-radio

http://mentalfloss.com/article/25169/why-did-soap-operas-look-different-other-tv-shows

https://books.google.com/books?id=YPlPfU9KSGMC&pg=PA264&lpg=PA264&dq=soap+opera+history&source=bl&ots=b4ZMbc0J1-&sig=rLlRhJob1ySuulq43tQjZZ1Gkg8&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjPheq09YzRAhXEWSYKHf-gD044ChDoAQhEMAc#v=onepage&q=soap%20opera%20history&f=false

http://www.toptenz.net/top-10-soap-opera-cliches.php

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Happy New Year! Are you ready to make this year the best year of your life? Are you going to get off the couch, throw out those Christmas cookies, join the gym, and get that heart beating?! Well, what are you waiting for!?

I bet you’re at the gym right now, about to step on the machine we’ll be talking about in this episode! Get ready to learn about how you’re about to use a machine that went from its beginnings as a human-powered heavy-lifter to a form of prison punishment to becoming the most popular piece of cardiovascular exercise machinery.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind The Treadmill!

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

https://www.lifefitness.com/blog/posts/the-history-of-the-treadmill.html

http://mentalfloss.com/article/12275/treadmill-originated-prisons

https://physicalculturestudy.com/2015/04/01/a-brief-history-of-the-treadmill/

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/blogs/secretlife/blogposts/retroscience-original-treadmill/

http://www.livestrong.com/article/324355-the-history-of-aerobics/

http://www.cooperaerobics.com/Health-Tips/Prevention-Plus/Trusting-the-Treadmill-Stress-Test.aspx

http://www.topconsumerreviews.com/treadmills/article-popular.php

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You may be seeing a lot of social media posts from people reflecting on 2016 or even saying “good riddance” to the year, looking forward to a new year. And you may already have heard people discussing their new year’s resolutions or plans for 2017. One of the biggest celebrations happens annually in New York City, as many gather to watch a giant lit up ball descend as they countdown to midnight.

In this episode, we’ll talk about why we celebrate the new year when we do, how it’s celebrated around the world, and the famed ball drop in Times Square.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind New Year’s Eve.

Have a safe and happy new year!

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If you enjoy podcasts about history, literature, archeology, and the arts, check out the hashtag #HumanitiesPodcasts on Twitter to find more podcasts like this one.

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Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

https://www.timeout.com/newyork/blog/10-insider-tips-for-doing-times-square-on-new-years-eve-123015

http://www.timessquarenyc.org/events/new-years-eve/about-the-new-years-eve-ball/history-of-the-new-years-eve-ball/index.aspx#.WE7ruvn491k

http://mentalfloss.com/article/60828/story-behind-times-squares-new-years-eve-celebration

http://www.today.com/money/new-year-s-eve-ball-5-little-known-facts-about-t64546

http://old.post-gazette.com/tv/20011226guy1226p6.asp

http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/new-years

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Time_ball

http://www.history.com/news/6-things-you-may-not-know-about-the-gregorian-calendar

http://www.infoplease.com/spot/history-of-august.html

http://thepossumdrop.com/Information.html

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When Australian comedic Band Axis of Awesome created a YouTube hit in 2011 with their song, “Four Chords,” many were amazed to realize just how many songs used the same chord progression. If you haven’t heard the song in it’s entirety, I encourage you to take a listen.

LINK TO Axis of Awesome’s “4 Chords”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOlDewpCfZQ

In this episode, we’ll talk about why it’s possible to sing a number of different songs using the same four chords, why these four chords sound so good to our ears, and hopefully when this episode is over, you will continue to listen to podcasts instead of the radio, since you already know what most of the songs sound like.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Four Chords.

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Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Pachelbel’s Canon

Axis of Awesome - 4 Chords

Four Chord Progression and Sensitive Female Chord Progression

Sources:

http://www.easyeartraining.com/learn/four-chords-and-the-truth/#

http://wmbriggs.com/post/2641/

http://web.archive.org/web/20100113080032/http://www.boston.com/ae/music/articles/2008/12/31/striking_a_chord/

http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/music/2015/01/14/country-music-mash-up-luke-bryan-blake-shelton-florida-georgia-line/21751561/

http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/ThreeChordsAndTheTruth

http://www.sciencefriday.com/articles/why-do-songs-get-stuck-in-our-heads/

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/science/science-news/9950143/Get-that-tune-out-of-your-head-scientists-find-how-to-get-rid-of-earworms.html

http://archive.boston.com/ae/music/articles/2008/12/31/striking_a_chord/

http://www.tdpri.com/threads/thought-of-the-day-on-chord-progressions.487939/

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This episode is a bit different from regular episodes of The Story Behind. Instead of one topic, I explore the story behind five different Christmas traditions, some from history and some more modern. This was originally recorded for a guest segment I did on the Triple X-Mas Special episode of Everyone Has a Podcast, a comedy show hosted by my friends Adam and Bryon.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Christmas Traditions.

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Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

FreeXmasMP3.com

Sources:

Snopes.com

Alltogetherchristmas.com

Gizmodo.com

Achristmasstoryhouse.com

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We've seen them on TV, most notably on daytime shows like Maury, catching cheaters and making for over-dramatic television. But if lie detectors are so good? Why aren't they used in actual criminal cases?

In this episode, we'll talk about the invention of the lie detector test, how it works and even how to pass a lie detector test.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Polygraph.

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Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

Special thanks to Jim Collison from Home Gadget Geeks at TheAverageGuy.TV, who played my polygraph tester in this episode.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.kidzone.ws/science/polygraph/historyofthepolygraphmachine.htm

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-22467640

http://americacomesalive.com/2014/11/08/invention-polygraph/

http://www.engineersgarage.com/invention-stories/lie-detector-history

http://www.apa.org/research/action/polygraph.aspx

https://www.hg.org/article.asp?id=31737

http://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/resources/criminal-defense/defendants-rights/lie-detector-test.htm#

http://www.livescience.com/33512-pass-lie-detector-polygraph.html

http://www.npr.org/2014/10/27/359078315/the-man-behind-wonder-woman-was-inspired-by-both-suffragists-and-centerfolds

http://home.total.net/~galcar/html/brief_history_of_the_polygraph.html

http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=polygraph

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/02/04/the-polygraph-has-been-lying-for-90-years.html

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-02-02/will-lie-detectors-ever-get-their-day-in-court-again-

http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/LieDetector

https://books.google.com/books?id=QI0S4XhXJ9wC&pg=PA146&lpg=PA146&dq=Tony+Grignano+and+Cecil+Loniello&source=bl&ots=6LQ7Kd1bLN&sig=744rNkcgzT-VU1V4udK5qMO5D38&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiQoeGuoODQAhUB1mMKHXF7CrAQ6AEIVjAM#v=onepage&q=Tony%20Grignano%20and%20Cecil%20Loniello&f=false

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For anyone who has been pregnant or has been around someone who is pregnant, you may be familiar with the amazing phenomenon of the swelling of appendages you never knew could swell so much. Being pregnant myself, there are days when someone will ask me how I’m feeling and all I do is show them a comparison of my swollen feet and ankles to those of a certain popular ‘80s doll, whose toes are only distinguishable by the thin thread separating them.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about the disputed creator of that doll, how the craze for this doll took off, and how Black Fridays of today can’t hold a candle to the violence and mania that ensued in the early-to-mid 1980s.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Cabbage Patch Kids.

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Media: Music for Makers

PIX News 11: https://youtu.be/VaQuxCWWTaI

Sources: http://www.vice.com/video/the-secret-history-of-cabbage-patch-kids-011

http://www.glamour.com/story/cabbage-patch-kids-facts

http://content.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,921419,00.html

https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=861&dat=19831127&id=LzMcAAAAIBAJ&sjid=3VgEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5445,7789961

http://archives.timesleader.com/1998/1998_21/1998_11_27_THE_MEMORIES_OF_A_DOLL_RIOT_VETERAN_SCARS_LINGER_FROM__83_CABBAG.html

http://www.babylandgeneral.com/about/our-history/

https://books.google.com/books?id=mbTUorcuXkoC&pg=PA51&lpg=PA51&dq=atlanta+weekly+xavier+roberts&source=bl&ots=uu2r8Ut1oV&sig=rC7_iRO9D5iijajKaHo5aTTqbHg&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjm1Kj7kdPQAhUi64MKHWCaC60Q6AEIQjAH#v=onepage&q=atlanta%20weekly%20xavier%20roberts&f=false

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With the birth of our second child coming in April, we’ve been going through a lot of my daughter’s toys to see what we can pass on, and there’s one bin of toys we know will be always be shared by her, our future son, as well as my husband and me.

In fact, we’re not quite sure which of these toys belonged to my husband when he was growing up and which ones are brand new, since they transcend generations and are robust enough to survive multiple children.

In this episode, we’ll talk about the man behind this toy, how his family has been behind production up through this day, and how this toy has impacted generations of children, past and present. And as awesome as they are for children’s development and creativity, there’s nothing worse than stepping on one with barefeet.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind LEGO.

The role of Ole Kirk Christainsen was played by Kevin from Who Are These Podcasts?

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Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Sources:

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-lego-legacy/

http://mentalfloss.com/article/19400/early-history-lego

http://www.famousinventors.org/ole-kirk-christiansen

https://www.lego.com/en-us/aboutus/news-room/2016/april/smooth-handover-to-the-next-generation

https://www.lego.com/en-us/aboutus/lego-group/the_lego_history

http://www.dailycelebrations.com/120401.htm

http://www.toyhalloffame.org/toys/lego

http://www.inc.com/ilan-mochari/lego-healing-creative-power.html

http://outsidethebrick.com/blog/2013/07/10benefitspart1/

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Have you ever seen a human-like robot, doll or animatronic that was so lifelike it gave you the creeps? Maybe you feel uncomfortable seeing a clown or zombie but don’t know why. The uneasiness you may feel is known as the Uncanny Valley Phenomenon, which is noticeable when something is so close to being human, but lacks a certain something that’s hard to describe. If you saw the robot from the 1986 movie, “Short Circuit,” your brain would process it as just a regular robot and it wouldn’t set off any warning bells in your mind. But the more scientists try to add human features to a robot, the more negatively we respond to it.

This uncanny valley is why some people say they feel uncomfortable in wax museums. The characters are so incredibly lifelike, yet there’s something just off enough about them, our brains process them as being something to fear. Yet, wax museums have been popular tourist attractions for years. And it was one woman who became so skilled at her wax sculptures, her museums have attracted guests for more than 250 years.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Madame Tussaud.

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Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.cnn.com/2012/07/11/health/uncanny-valley-robots/

http://www.encyclopedia.com/people/literature-and-arts/european-art-1600-present-biographies/marie-tussaud

http://mentalfloss.com/article/25496/10-things-you-might-not-know-about-madame-tussauds-wax-museum

https://www.madametussauds.com/hollywood/en/about/about-us/

http://www.historytoday.com/richard-cavendish/death-madame-tussaud

https://ridiculouslyinteresting.com/2012/11/27/burnt-and-melted-wax-figures-after-the-1925-fire-at-madame-tussauds-in-london/

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There are lots of experiments that have come and gone. And not just experiments you’ll find in science laboratories or chemistry classes.

For example, if you were around for the early days of Facebook, back when it was known as “THE Facebook,” you might remember the slogan “a social experiment.” But it wasn’t the first social experiment, and it certain won’t be the last. Prohibition, otherwise known as a constitutional ban on the making and selling of alcoholic beverages, was known as the Noble Experiment from 1920-1933.

It’s safe to say the experiment failed, considering many lost their jobs, restaurants and clubs were put out of business, and prohibition gave way to corruption and an increase in underground crime, not to mention an exorbitant amount of power wielded to mobsters and bootleggers like Al Capone.

Jello Biafra of the Dead Kennedys once said, "For every prohibition you create, you also create an underground."

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Speakeasies.

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Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

The role of Jello Biafra was played by Mark from the Unskippable podcast, and Eleanor Roosevelt was played by Tammy Terwelp, General Manager of 91.5 KRCC, Southern Colorado's NPR Station.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/j/jello_biafra.html

http://www.history.com/news/hungry-history/prohibition-speakeasies-and-finger-foods

http://www.legendsofamerica.com/ah-prohibitionspeakeasy.html

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2268971/Inside-speakeasies-1920s-The-hidden-drinking-spots-transformed-New-York-Citys-night-life-prohibition-era-beyond.html

http://www.blackpast.org/aah/cotton-club-harlem-1923

https://www.thrillist.com/drink/nation/secret-bars-hard-to-find-speakeasies

http://www.legendsofamerica.com/20th-gangsters.html

https://parachute.mapquest.com/2016/03/16/five-hardest-speakeasies-to-get-into/

http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h1085.html

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Many around my age remember talking to our friends on AOL Instant Messenger after school and using netspeak for things like LOL or JK or BRB for Laughing Out Loud, Just Kidding or Be Right Back, which no one really does anymore with the internet.

But every generation has a way of shortening their writing, it seems. Decades ago, high-schoolers took classes on a way of writing called shorthand, which was used in offices for dictation, for reporters taking notes at a quick pace and court reporters transcribing the proceedings. But, sometimes even court reporters couldn’t write shorthand quickly enough to keep up with fast-talkers, and, as seen in all great infomercials, someone said, “There’s Got To Be A Better Way!”

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Stenomasks.

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The role of Pappy Ward was played by Adam from Everyone has a Podcast.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxVQ9rhjyTY

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34603886

https://talktech.com/history/

http://www.phillycourtreporters.com/the-stenomask-your-court-reporting-nighmares-realized/

http://www.lrb.co.uk/v30/n23/leah-price/diary

http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/08/06/a-brief-history-of-shorthand/

http://pitmania.com/shorthand-deathmatch-pitman-v-gregg-2/

http://sixminutes.dlugan.com/speaking-rate/

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Yelp Review: 1 Star
"If I could give zero to this collection of 'Merican phat pants ice cream zoo I would. This is a disgrace to the park system. Don’t go here. Stay in the hills or badlands instead. I do not think it is patriotic to deface a mountain. Also the surrounding towns are horrible. I am pretty sure that the next gathering of the juggalos is taking place around here somewhere."

Yelp Review: 1 Star
"Not to downplay the achievements of the monument ... but, it was really not that awesome. Seriously, you can only look at giant heads carved into the side of a mountain for so long. We drove across the country and through South Dakota for this?"

Yelp Review: 1 Star "not very good. kind of scary imo. my little sister cried. do NOT bring kids to this thing." Despite the one-star Yelp reviews, this South Dakota monument attracts more than 2 million tourists per year, became a sought-after movie backdrop by Alfred Hitchcock, which caused rumors and controversy with the National Parks Service, and started off with a 14-year construction using nearly 400 men and women.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Mount Rushmore.

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The One-Star Yelp Reviews were read by Adam and Bryon from Everyone has a Podcast and Porter from Porter’s Podcast.

The role of Bill Challis was played byRich Grimshaw, a forensic engineer from Cumming, Georgia. Brandon from the Basement Condition Podcast played Gutzon Borglum, and Podcast Rob from The Something-Something Cast played Alfred Hitchcock.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.history.com/topics/us-presidents/mount-rushmore

http://www.rosyinn.com/1320a1.html

http://www-tc.pbs.org/nationalparks/media/pdfs/untold_stories_mount_rushmore.pdf

https://www.nps.gov/moru/learn/historyculture/carving-history.htm

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/primary-resources/rushmore-north-northwest/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Rushmore_in_popular_culture

http://ghostsnghouls.com/2013/10/04/mount-rushmore-haunted/

http://www.azquotes.com/author/50630-Gutzon_Borglum

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/biography/rushmore-borglum/

https://www.yelp.com/biz/mount-rushmore-national-memorial-keystone-2?

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Even though my family’s dining room table is usually too full of food for any sort of decoration, there’s one particular centerpiece associated with Thanksgiving. Whether you paid an exorbitant amount of money for one at Williams-Sonoma, or found one at a consignment shop, this symbol of abundance has been seen

In this episode, we’ll be talking about Greek mythology involving the horn of plenty, how it came to grace Thanksgiving tables and still-life paintings, and even its appearance in The Hunger Games.

I'm your host Emily Prokop and this is The Story Behind The Cornucopia.

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Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/from-zeus-to-williamssonoma-the-history-of-the-cornucopia

http://www.theoi.com/Ther/AixAmaltheia.html

http://www.mythphile.com/2010/11/the-cornucopia-horn-of-plenty-in-greek-myth/

http://www.brighthubeducation.com/history-homework-help/126590-what-is-a-cornucopia/

http://thehungergames.wikia.com/wiki/Cornucopia

http://www.thedailymeal.com/history-cornucopia

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As a parent of a kindergartener, I get a lot of notices home from my daughter’s school. Bake sales, fundraisers, notices about upcoming events, all that fun stuff. And, I’m convinced public schools are only given access to one font for these flyers. And, as an editor for print publications for more than 10 years, it drives me absolutely bonkers.

In this episode, we’ll talk about Batman’s inspiration in the font world, designers who despise clients who ask for this particular font, and the man responsible for mountains of internet hate.

I'm Emily Prokop and this is The Story Behind Comic Sans.

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Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

MusicForMakers.com

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zq7Eki5EZ8o

Sources:

https://www.kidscodecs.com/why-designers-hate-comic-sans/

http://www.connare.com/whycomic.htm

http://knowyourmeme.com/memes/comic-sans?full=1

http://mashable.com/2012/10/03/comic-sans-history/#HVKEwcT9kkqU

http://comicsansproject.tumblr.com/

http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/weirdalyankovic/tacky.html

https://www.dyslexic.com/fonts/

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As basic as the need for warmth and being covered is, fashion has taken a basic need to a completely different level at times. You could pick up any yearbook from the 1980s as proof of that. But sometimes the most simple articles of clothing create the biggest impact. Look at what James Dean accomplished with just a white T-shirt or the everlasting impact of Jackie Onassis’ large sunglasses, or even being able to look at the backside of Bruce Springsteen in his iconic jeans and know exactly who it is.

In this episode, we’re sticking with the basics and, as I’m from New England, you can’t get much more basic than a sweatshirt this time of year. The warm and casual look has been tried and true and, even though what prompted this episode was a seeing a cropped version of this fashion that I still don’t quite understand. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Hoodies.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.rollingstone.com/culture/news/the-history-of-the-hoodie-20120403

https://youtu.be/zj7qEcD8R-8?t=20s

http://www.cnn.com/2012/05/18/justice/florida-teen-shooting-details/

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/trayvon-martin/article1953286.html

http://time.com/4192840/mark-zuckerberg-wardrobe-facebook-photo/

http://www.cnn.com/2012/03/27/living/history-hoodie-trayvon-martin/

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/23/opinion/23wilson.html?_r=0

http://www.npr.org/2012/03/24/149245834/tragedy-gives-the-hoodie-a-whole-new-meaning

https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/blogpost/post/trayvon-martin-million-hoodie-march-a-short-history-of-the-hoodie/2012/03/22/gIQAeGCnTS_blog.html

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I loved dances in high school. As an adult, I think the closest we have to school dances are weddings, but it’s still not the same excitement of the unexpected that came from school dances. Except for November of my sophomore year. There was one dance I did not look forward to: Sadie Hawkins Day Dance. I was lucky enough to have a girl who looked enough like me in passing who I got to ask for me. Thank god every girl at the time had the Rachel hair cut.

That, in and of itself, should indicate how times have changed since then. And now, it’s common for girls to ask boys to any dance or boys to ask boys or girls to ask girls or to not have to ask anyone at all.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about the fictional comic strip character; her creator, a misogynist; the Greek myth she may be based on, and and how she inspired women in the ‘50s to chase men around campuses in the ‘50s. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is the story behind Sadie Hawkins.

Follow The Story Behind: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

The role of Al Capp was played by Nick from the Epic Film Guys podcast.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.womenyoushouldknow.net/ugly-truth-behind-sadie-hawkins-day/

http://reason.com/archives/2013/02/26/the-wizard-of-dogpatch

http://newsfeed.time.com/2012/02/29/get-ready-ladies-leap-day-is-also-sadie-hawkins-day/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atalanta

http://www.greekmythology.com/Myths/Heroes/Atlanta/atlanta.html

https://www.romper.com/p/what-is-sadie-hawkins-day-its-outdated-tradition-that-just-wont-die-6428

http://mentalfloss.com/article/29084/who-sadie-hawkins-and-why-does-she-have-her-own-dance

https://books.google.com/books?id=SFUEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA108&lpg=PA108#v=onepage&q&f=false

http://daysgoneby.me/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/sadie-hawkins-day-1955.jpg

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Welcome to a special episode of The Story Behind. There will still be two regular episodes this week, but following the 2016 election results, I wanted to do a special episode on The Story Behind the Electoral College.

Many are wondering why do Electoral Votes matter and what do they mean; why, if Hillary Clinton won the popular vote, did she not win the presidency; and just what does the Electoral College really do?

In this episode, we’ll discuss how this institution came to be, the impact of its decisions, and why some people are still saying Hillary Clinton could win the presidency.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind the Electoral College.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9H3gvnN468

http://time.com/4560682/faithless-electors/

http://people.howstuffworks.com/electoral-college1.htm

http://www.history.com/topics/electoral-college

http://www.ibtimes.com/can-hillary-clinton-still-win-electoral-college-vote-december-after-candidate-wins-2445319

http://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2016-11-10/the-electoral-college-what-is-it

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/09/us/politics/how-does-the-electoral-college-work.html?_r=0

http://www.snopes.com/2016/11/11/the-electoral-college-and-the-popular-vote/

http://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2016/11/11/13588048/electoral-college-petition-clinton-trump

http://heavy.com/news/2016/11/faithless-electors-petition-change-org-fine-trump-hillary-clinton-by-state-crime-illegal-electoral-college-when-does-meet/

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Before there were allergy-free tables in school cafeterias, it seemed every kid when I was growing up had a PB&J sandwich in their lunch at least once a week. It seems almost foreign to me now to make my daugher’s lunch and have to move the household Jif aside to grab some allergy-friendly sunflower seed butter for her sandwiches -- and, no, she’s not allergic, but I can’t look like a terrible mom, taunting the kids with a peanut allergy with an amazing Fluffernutter in my daughter’s lunch.

Beginning as a slave food, then a source of protein during World War 2, and, even though it’s not as loved by our friends over in the UK, it’s still an American staple and favorite.

I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Peanut Butter

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

The role of Ruth Desmond was played by Lisa from Crime & Precedents, and Mark from the Unskippable Podcast played Lee Avera.

Click here if you'd like to support the podcast through Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://peanutbutterlovers.com/pb-lovers/pb101/history/

http://www.beaconlearningcenter.com/documents/4182_3506.pdf

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/features/love-me-love-my-gunk-why-dont-brits-love-peanut-butter-as-much-as-americans-do-7622212.html

http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/explainer/2009/02/why_do_americans_love_peanut_butter.html

http://nationalpeanutboard.org/peanut-info/fun-facts.htm

http://nationalpeanutboard.org/peanut-info/who-invented-peanut-butter.htm

http://mentalfloss.com/article/32042/corn-flakes-were-invented-part-anti-masturbation-crusade

http://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/why-midcentury-lawyers-spent-12-years-arguing-about-peanut-butter

https://books.google.com/books?id=0PQYBQAAQBAJ&pg=PA108&lpg=PA108&dq=The+Peanut+Butter+Hearings&source=bl&ots=YKvl5icrZB&sig=CqNbwlxHlPui51y6zWFkHiVjuzE&hl=en&sa=X&ei=llWPVKThG621sQS2rYC4Ag&ved=0CEIQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=The%2520Peanut%2520Butter%2520Hearings&f=false

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If you live in the United States and you’re listening to this on the day it comes out, you may be feeling a number of different emotions about tomorrow’s election. From anger to confidence, fear to even indifference, you know that casting your ballot means you realize that your voice has the right to be heard and that your opinions on how this country should be run matters.

And, as long as you’re over the age of 18 and a citizen, you can walk into your local polling place and cast your ballot in complete secrecy, no matter what your family, friends or coworkers think of your candidate -- whoever you pick is known only to you. It’s something we now take for granted and, in this episode, we’ll talk about how public voting was influenced, how Australia set an international precedent, and just how recent the switch from public to personal voting was. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Secret Ballots.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.history.com/topics/the-26th-amendment

http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2008/10/13/rock-paper-scissors

http://inthepastlane.com/tag/australian-ballot-in-america/

http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/boss-tweed-delivered-to-authorities

http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2012/07/abolish-the-secret-ballot/309038/

http://www.bbc.co.uk/ahistoryoftheworld/objects/WryVwsknTr-aa4IQ-ID9iQ

https://www.theguardian.com/notesandqueries/query/0,,-1051,00.html

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There’s a lot of talk about the Second Amendment, the right to bear arms, this election season. Gun control has been a hot-button topic in politics for many years, and has seemed to increase in being discussed, as well as what the Founding Fathers could have meant when they wrote that amendment back before there were such things as assault weapons and nuclear bombs.

But we’re going way back before all that in this episode -- starting with trying to find the Elixir of Life to the creation of fireworks to weaponry of the middle ages and how a plot to overthrow the King became a holiday still celebrated today. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Gunpowder.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

The role of Guy Fawkes was played by Paul from the podcast, Rick and Paul Heal the World.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

Music for Makers

Sources:

http://www.history.com/shows/mankind-the-story-of-all-of-us/videos/mankind-the-story-of-all-of-us-gunpowder-to-guns

http://kaleidoscope.cultural-china.com/en/10Kaleidoscope8482.html

http://www.livescience.com/7476-gunpowder-changed-world.html

https://epicfireworks.com/history-of-gunpowder

http://www.history.com/topics/gunpowder-plot

http://www.potw.org/archive/potw405.html

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/0/bonfire-night-why-do-we-celebrate-with-firework-displays-who-was/

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If you were a child growing up in the U.S., you likely remember the feeling of waking up with a sugar hangover on November 1st, after walking all night to fill up your bucket with Halloween candy and eating too many, only to have a sugar rush that night, followed by a major crash. The last thing you’ll want to do that day is look at any more sugar. Unless you happen to visit Mexico, Latin America or live in one of the South-West states that celebrates Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, with traditional sugar skulls.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about the significance of skulls in remembering those who have died, combining ancient religious celebrations with traditions of early settlers, and the sweet happenstance of using sugar as a means of decoration. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is the story behind Sugar Skulls.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

"Pueblo Duerme" by La Barca de Sua

“Los Besos De Mi Negra” by Lydia Mendoza

"Nova Zemja" by Ansambl Mastika

Sources:
http://www.encyclopedia.com/social-sciences-and-law/sociology-and-social-reform/sociology-general-terms-and-concepts/memento
http://www.mexicansugarskull.com/support/dodhistory.html
http://nationalgeographic.org/media/dia-de-los-muertos/
http://www.history.com/news/hungry-history/day-of-the-dead-sweets-and-treats
http://www.mexicansugarskull.com/support/faqs.html
http://www.art-is-fun.com/mexican-sugar-skull/
http://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/holidays/day-of-the-dead/2014/09/24/day-of-the-dead-history/16174911/

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Dry ice. The name, itself, seems like an oxymoron. Ice is made of water, and for the most part, there should be a wet mess left behind when it melts, right? Maybe you saw it for the first time in middle school in a science class -- depending on your age, maybe you were even allowed to handle it. I doubt nowadays, with all the lawsuits, kids would have the glory of hearing that faint sizzle while envisioning themselves as the greatest sorcerer who ever lived.

In this episode, we’ll be talking about how a product exists that has the potential for such danger has become so ubiquitous as to be used in fire extinguishers, Halloween decorations and haunted graveyard attractions, water bottle bombs at Disney and even cause a crying Sorority girl to go viral. I’m your host, Emily Prokop, and this is The Story Behind Dry Ice.

Check out #PodernFamily on Twitter to find other great indie podcasts like this one.

Click here to support this podcast on Patreon.

Media:

MusicForMakers.com

Sources:

http://www.dryicecorp.com/many-uses-of-dry-ice/the-history-of-dry-ice/

http://dryiceinfo.com/history.htm

http://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/science-questions/question264.htm

http://science.howstuffworks.com/touched-dry-ice.htm

http://knowyourmeme.com/memes/i-just-wanted-to-make-it-snow

http://articles.latimes.com/2013/nov/04/local/la-me-ln-disneyland-dry-ice-bombs-guilty-20131104

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The Story Behind Spotify Playlist A playlist of some of the songs and/or artists mentioned in The Story Behind, you know, just in case you wanted a playlist that included both the Star Trek theme song (The Story Behind the Theremin) and Judas Priest (The Story Behind We Didn't Start the Fire: 1964-1989, Part 2).

The Story Behind Gear Page Show off your Trivia Buff status with official gear from The Story Behind from our TeePublic Store or at TheStoryBehindPodcast.com/Gear! Get T-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, onesies or even a Trivia Buff notebook to record all the cool trivia you pick up during the day.

Keep checking back for more extras!

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About the show The Story Behind™ focuses on the extraordinary history of the ordinary. Each episode is usually less than 10 minutes long and explores the origins and evolution of an item, person or idea you may know today. The stories are told as accurately as possible, sourced from books and articles about that particular topic. There's a story behind everything, and once you learn that story, you just may appreciate your world a bit more.

About the host Emily Prokop holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and has worked in newspapers, magazines, and publishing, and has always loved trivia, fun facts and useless knowledge. In 2015, she and her friend James decided to use their penchant for collecting trivia by hosting the Classy Little Podcast. When that show ended a year later, the trivia started building up in her brain again, not to mention countless time spent falling down Google rabbit holes. With that, plus a lot of coaxing from Nick from the Epic Film Guys podcast, she got behind the mic again and The Story Behind was born.

Contact Twitter: @StoryBehindPod

Facebook: @StoryBehindPod

Instagram: storybehindpod

Email: TheStoryBehindPod@gmail.com

Appearances Hear some of the other podcasts Emily has been a guest on. LIST OF APPEARANCES

The Story Behind Media Kit

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You can find The Story Behind on whatever app you use to listen to podcasts, or click the buttons below to subscribe.

Sorry The Story Behind is no longer available on Spotify as of January 2022.

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Love the podcast, but wish you could read along? Grab your copy of The Story Behind book!

The Story Behind book has 30 chapters that were also episodes of the show, and 20 chapters you WON'T hear on the podcast!

The Story Behind book brings the podcast onto your bookshelf (or in your bathroom — don't worry, I made sure to mention this is a great bathroom book in the Introduction 😉).

But you're welcome to take it along as a traveling companion. The Story Behind is quite lightweight and travels easily. It also doesn't require much food or water. (Caution: Dark cover. May get hot if reading in direct sunlight.)

Places you can bring your copy of The Story Behind:

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• Seriously, where oh where can The Story Behind book NOT go?!

If you do plan on bringing The Story Behind book on your next trip, be sure to take a picture of you and the book and tag The Story Behind on social media!

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The best way you can support the show is by telling others about it.

"Who should I tell?"

• Trivia nerds
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"Nah, I don't want to socialize."

Fair enough. Just subscribing and enjoying is support enough, and you're awesome in my book. :)

I also have a Patreon page for those who would like to contribute to recording equipment, hosting fees, and all that other behind-the-scenes stuff that goes into a podcast.

Just a note: I love this hobby, I'm not looking to make a living off of it so I never want to give off the impression that the only reason I'm doing this podcast is to make money (I sincerely dislike those types of podcasters, in fact).

If you contribute, I am eternally grateful and will think of you warmly every night as I drift to sleep. But I am also eternally grateful to anyone who gives this a listen and learns something new from it -- and I'd love to hear how you've used that knowledge! Please contact me through Twitter or email or anything else on the Contact Page to let me know. :)

Thanks!

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Want to listen to all the episodes of The Story Behind? This is the place! Listen from your browser to any and all episodes by pressing play, ordered from most recent -- don't worry, there's not really an order to episodes, aside from the occasional two-parter.

• Check out the full #ForrestGumpFebruary Series
  http://thestorybehindpodcast.com/forrest-gump-february-series-2017

• Check out the full Luck & Superstitions Series:
  http://thestorybehindpodcast.com/luck-superstitions-series

• Check out the full We Didn't Start the Fire Series:
  http://thestorybehindpodcast.com/we-didnt-start-the-fire-series

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Show off your Trivia Buff status with official gear from The Story Behind from our TeePublic Store! Get T-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, onesies or even a Trivia Buff notebook to record all the cool trivia you pick up during the day.

The Story Behind Cover Art Shirt Additional Colors and Styles Available - $20

The Story Behind Trivia Buff Shirt Additional Colors and Styles Available - $20

The Story Behind Trivia Buff Title Shirt Additional Colors and Styles Available - $20

The Story Behind Trivia Buff Title Shirt Additional Colors and Styles Available - $20

The Story Behind Trivia Buff Mug - $15

The Story Behind Trivia Buff Title Mug - $15

The Story Behind Trivia Buff Notebook Additional Styles Available - $12

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Brown Title Sticker / Blue Title Sticker

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Thank you so much to the Executive Producers of The Story Behind!

Why are they given that title?

Because producers provide support in a number of different ways, much like listeners and Patreon supporters to this podcast.

They help pay for hosting fees, equipment, and general podcast maintenance.

Want to become an Executive Producer? Click here to help support the show!

Thank you to the following:

Linguist Sam

Jarrod Dunham

Podcastage

Barry Guertin

Heather Welch

Jim Collison

Everyone Has a Podcast

Jason Bryant

Nicholas Haskins

Dave Jackson

Stargate Pioneer

The One Word, Go! Show

Diane Student

Two Peas on a Podcast

Ryle Davis Jr.

Dan Brenic

The Beardcaster

Elikitie

Podcasts We Listen To

Adam Higgins

Jonathan Bloom

Ryan P. Jackson

Dan Gallagher

Jeffrey Seguritan

Dan LeFebvre

Don Miller II