Fascinating Gadgets, Gizmos, and Gear Based Technologies: Recent Episodes
Daniel J. Glenn
The early part of this century saw an explosion of television shows demonstrating extreme survival skills. I am talking about Survivor, Naked and Afraid, Man VS Wild, or anything Bear Grylls stars in. I think this was really to show how far we humans have gone from nature. We have lost almost all of our primal instincts, but in fairness, we do have them. Our inner caveman is always simmering below the surface. This is not true for robots. Sure AI has progressed in leaps and bounds over the past few months, but could an artificially intelligent robot survive in a harsh, remote environment? Could they learn survival skills without a single human present? That is the question we are going to tackle today. Our Enigmatic Engineer Ben Siepser is mostly robot, and as such, he reveals his first ever memories. These may hold the key to the survival of all robotdom.
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Let’s say you work with classified documents, or you just have a boring job you want to forget. Wouldn’t it be great if you could just turn off your brain as you entered work and turned it back on when you left the building? You know, give the heavy lifting to your unconscious or whatever. If this sounds like a dream come true, then you will LOVE the TV show Severance. Here people have an operation that puts a chip in their brain which creates an entirely new personality. This personality IS you, but it only remembers what happens at work. The original you gets to experience all the cool stuff like weekends and not working, while this new personality is stuck finishing your mindless tasks. It’s a dream come true! That is, of course, you are the original you and not the new you. Their life sucks. Anyway, we discuss all the pros and cons of this arrangement on this week’s episode!
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Beetlejuice has been called “The Ghost with the Most”, but the most of what? Is there something special that he has that other ghosts in the afterlife don’t have? The short answer is YES, and it involves the Deadon particle. Don’t worry, we explain everything for you in this episode. These give him the power to be the greatest bio-exorcist in the afterlife, which is how the B-man makes his living. And saying his name three times? First of all, don’t do it. Secondly, it makes perfect sense, trust me. Plus we have a quick conversation about how he would fare against the Ghostbusters, and let me say, the consensus was 50/50, AND we tell you how to properly shrink a head.
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My guess is that most people listening to this episode will NOT find themselves lost in a fantasy dungeon (unless it is while playing a game of D&D of course). However should you, it may become necessary to start catching and eating monsters. Luckily the Brain Trust has just finished watching the anime “Delicious in Dungeon” so we have you covered. A dungeon is its own ecosystem, complete with photosynthetic plants (when there is sunlight), wild fungi, herbivores, scavengers and yes, even carnivores. What should you eat, and how should it be prepared? Well a cockatrice is multiple animals, so it should be cooked like a turducken. Need vegetables? Try planting some on a dirt golem. We even discuss the complicated science of cooking so all your meat will taste delicious on out wok. Just steer clear of the dragons and you will be fine.
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Humans are visual creatures, but we still rely heavily on our auditory senses to navigate the world. We are also loud by nature, which is why New York City is constantly at 90 decibels. My point is this: If our survival is dependent on staying silent, I think we are doomed. Most of us at least. Which is why the monsters in A Quiet Place are so terrifying. They seem built for our total annihilation. Their ability to move undetected and hunt by sound makes them the perfect killer. This week we discuss how these monsters work, plus we offer a few ways we might be able to stay alive along enough to defeat them.
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Today we decide to take a trip BACK to the planet of Dune, which is a place like none other. In our first episode we talked about the lack of water and how important saving every drop is. Well this time we take a deep dive into that waterless pool to give you as many H2O saving tips that we can. First of all we have to discuss where all the water went and how to get to it. Secondly we have to get you on a very efficient urine reclamation system similar to the ISS. Toilet to Tap as we like to say. Thirdly, and admittedly this is pretty gruesome but necessary, we tell you how to take your fallen comrades and turn their lifeless bodies into about 8 gallons per 100 lbs. That’s a lot of water to squeeze out of a human, but we give you all the deets on how to get it done.
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Tornadoes are one of the most truly devastating forces in nature. They can appear out of nowhere, destroy entire towns, and then disappear without a trace. They are categorized not by their power, but by the amount of damage they cause. So how do these killer vortexes form? And why are they almost exclusively a North American phenomenon? Why do people chase them through the American Midwest? We can’t answer the last one, but we try to nail every weather related question we can think of.
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At the end of the last episode things looked pretty bleak. Highly advanced aliens are on their way and they are stifling our scientific breakthroughs. But humans are resilient. The aliens call us bugs, but nothing is more hardy than the cockroach. But what can we do? Well we specialize in out of the box thinking. How about shooting a probe towards the aliens containing the frozen brain of a brilliant scientist? What about nano wires that can silently cut a yacht into 5 sections? Or maybe we go straight analogue and create a committee of people who keep all of the strategies of humanity safely in their head? These seem like wild ideas, but there is a method to this madness. Listen as we give humanity hope that there may be a way to prepare for the alien that are speeding towards Earth at 1% light speed.
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The TV show “3 Body Problem” introduces a major conundrum for humanity: Aliens are on their way, and there is nothing we can do about it. Are they friendly? Are they hostile? Who knows (Who am I kidding, we all know they will eventually turn on us)? There is an upside though: It will take them 400 years to get here, so we have some time. But how did they find us in the first place? What is their obsession with VR tech? And what is a three body problem anyway? Luckily The Brain Trust is here to help navigate this situation and answer all your questions.
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“When Hell Freezes Over” is a common saying, but what does it even mean? Sure religious doctrine would have you believe that Hell is a place of fire and brimstone, full of lakes of lava, overcooked burritos, nuclear meltdowns, and other really hot stuff. But we also talk about the chill of the grave, and the cold touch of death. So which is it? Ghosts seem to straddle both worlds. Well this week we once again revisit the Ghostbusters series, complete with an entity that freezes everything it touches. Is there a connection to Absolute Zero, where all motion stops, and all life ends? Does brass have ghost-busting powers, or is it only good for musical instruments? Does Daniel figure out how to make his iron skillet work? Listen to find out the answers to these questions and many more!
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We have been taught that Superman is the icon for truth, justice, and the American way. He is the ultimate superhero, and always does what it right. He is also an alien with more strength and power than anything we can imagine. There are no counters to him. Well except Kryptonite which is unbelievably rare. Besides that, there is nothing we can do to stop him. Luckily he is on our side…but what if he wasn’t? This week, The Brain Trust looks at other Super Men who have the same powers as Kal-El, but without the same moral and ethic compass. We even look at a world where the he lands in Soviet Russia and spreads communism throughout the world!
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We’ve discussed how to build your own underground bunker, but what if you let a company like Vault-Tek do that for you? In the world of Fallout, Vault-Tek is not the most trustworthy company. They blew up the entire world to eliminate their competition! While I do respect their hustle, it does leave the world in an irradiated mess. So in three hundred years when you are coming out of your vault, how do you deal with all the radiation? Is that just a part of your daily life? And why are all the insects so big? Strap on your Pip-Boy, and get ready to discuss everything you need to know to become a productive member of the new radioactive society.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on The FlintstonesFascinating Nouns Ep. on Echo and DaredevilFGGGbT Ep. on FalloutArticlesCreating Designer ChromosomesFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
We’ve discussed how to build your own underground bunker, but what if you let a company like Vault-Tek do that for you? In the world of Fallout, Vault-Tek is not the most trustworthy company. They blew up the entire world to eliminate their competition! While I do respect their hustle, it does leave the world in an irradiated mess. So in three hundred years when you are coming out of your vault, how do you deal with all the radiation? Is that just a part of your daily life? And why are all the insects so big? Strap on your Pip-Boy, and get ready to discuss everything you need to know to become a productive member of the new radioactive society.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on The FlintstonesFascinating Nouns Ep. on Echo and DaredevilFGGGbT Ep. on FalloutArticlesCreating Designer ChromosomesFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
We’ve discussed how to build your own underground bunker, but what if you let a company like Vault-Tek do that for you? In the world of Fallout, Vault-Tek is not the most trustworthy company. They blew up the entire world to eliminate their competition! While I do respect their hustle, it does leave the world in an irradiated mess. So in three hundred years when you are coming out of your vault, how do you deal with all the radiation? Is that just a part of your daily life? And why are all the insects so big? Strap on your Pip-Boy, and get ready to discuss everything you need to know to become a productive member of the new radioactive society.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on The JetsonsFascinating Nouns Ep. on Edgar Allan PoeArticlesChernobyl’s Impact on WildlifeCancer Resistant WolvesRadiation Resistant WormsFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
We’ve discussed how to build your own underground bunker, but what if you let a company like Vault-Tek do that for you? In the world of Fallout, Vault-Tek is not the most trustworthy company. They blew up the entire world to eliminate their competition! While I do respect their hustle, it does leave the world in an irradiated mess. So in three hundred years when you are coming out of your vault, how do you deal with all the radiation? Is that just a part of your daily life? And why are all the insects so big? Strap on your Pip-Boy, and get ready to discuss everything you need to know to become a productive member of the new radioactive society.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on The JetsonsFascinating Nouns Ep. on Edgar Allan PoeArticlesChernobyl’s Impact on WildlifeCancer Resistant WolvesRadiation Resistant WormsFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
There are very few characters that truly stand the test of time. Superman and Batman are almost 90, but there are peaks and valleys to their popularity. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been consistently in the spotlight since the mid-80’s, which is a feat in my opinion. As everyone knows, despite being 40 years old they are still technically teenage turtles that practice karate, who happen to have been mutated to be the general proportions of a human. There are four of them, all named after renaissance artists, and all with a unique personality. What is the key to their universality? Is it living alone in the sewer? Is it trying to fit in? Is it the love of all things pizza? We dive into this question on today’s episode. Plus we talk about how to design a martial art for a turtle and a rat, and why Donatello should have been names Titian.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on The FlyFascinating Nouns Ep. on The Mona LisaFascinating Nouns Ep. on CicadasArticles
Hannah Gadsby Ninja Turtle Joke
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There are very few characters that truly stand the test of time. Superman and Batman are almost 90, but there are peaks and valleys to their popularity. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been consistently in the spotlight since the mid-80’s, which is a feat in my opinion. As everyone knows, despite being 40 years old they are still technically teenage turtles that practice karate, who happen to have been mutated to be the general proportions of a human. There are four of them, all named after renaissance artists, and all with a unique personality. What is the key to their universality? Is it living alone in the sewer? Is it trying to fit in? Is it the love of all things pizza? We dive into this question on today’s episode. Plus we talk about how to design a martial art for a turtle and a rat, and why Donatello should have been names Titian.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on The FlyFascinating Nouns Ep. on The Mona LisaFascinating Nouns Ep. on CicadasArticlesHannah Gadsby Ninja Turtle JokeFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
History is littered with tragic events, things that change the course of your life. Some events have the magnitude to change the social order of the world itself. What if you could go back and right these wrongs? Who among us wouldn’t go back and stop 9/11, or prevent the holocaust? Well this week, we take a look at this very possibility. We were inspired by the Stephen King book/TV series “11/22/63”, which is about a man who goes back in time to stop the JFK assassination. We walk you though the planning and preparation required to change history. We also explore the notion that maybe history doesn’t WANT to be changed, and will fight back if you get in it’s way. That is where things get a little tricky, but don’t worry, it’s NOT impossible!
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on CoherenceFGGGbT Ep. on Science Fiction TheaterFascinating Nouns Ep. on Edgar Allan PoeFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
History is littered with tragic events, things that change the course of your life. Some events have the magnitude to change the social order of the world itself. What if you could go back and right these wrongs? Who among us wouldn’t go back and stop 9/11, or prevent the holocaust? Well this week, we take a look at this very possibility. We were inspired by the Stephen King book/TV series “11/22/63”, which is about a man who goes back in time to stop the JFK assassination. We walk you though the planning and preparation required to change history. We also explore the notion that maybe history doesn’t WANT to be changed, and will fight back if you get in it’s way. That is where things get a little tricky, but don’t worry, it’s NOT impossible!
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on CoherenceFGGGbT Ep. on Science Fiction TheaterFascinating Nouns Ep. on Edgar Allan PoeFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Have you ever wondered what would have happened if during major moments of your life you simply made a different decision? You know, went left instead of right? What would your life be like now? Well thanks to our old friend Quantum Physics, that decision happened, and that alternate reality exists. And if that life is better than the one you are in now, what do you do? If you have the stones, you can get rid of the other version of yourself and take that life over. I don’t mean kill them of course, but maybe a life swap? Like a foreign exchange program. Getting there is the problem. Luckily this week’s episode will help you figure that part out.
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Have you ever wondered what would have happened if during major moments of your life you simply made a different decision? You know, went left instead of right? What would your life be like now? Well thanks to our old friend Quantum Physics, that decision happened, and that alternate reality exists. And if that life is better than the one you are in now, what do you do? If you have the stones, you can get rid of the other version of yourself and take that life over. I don’t mean kill them of course, but maybe a life swap? Like a foreign exchange program. Getting there is the problem. Luckily this week’s episode will help you figure that part out.
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Fighting crime is a dangerous business. In the best of circumstances, you have keep your senses sharp, and maintain your focus at all times. Seeing your enemy and hearing their movements are vital to your success, but what if you can’t see or hear? What do you do then? Well for Daredevil who is blind, and Echo who is deaf, you weaponize your other senses! In this episode, we tell you how. Whether it is using sign language to silently communicate, or echolocation to navigate the world, anyone can be a crime fighter. We also discuss how dogs see the world through scent, how snakes see the world in heat patterns, and why Ben doesn’t think we should eat onions like apples.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on WishesArticles“What The Fluff?!” ChallengeDaniel KishHuman LocomotionModel of Human LocationBen UnderwoodFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Fighting crime is a dangerous business. In the best of circumstances, you have keep your senses sharp, and maintain your focus at all times. Seeing your enemy and hearing their movements are vital to your success, but what if you can’t see or hear? What do you do then? Well for Daredevil who is blind, and Echo who is deaf, you weaponize your other senses! In this episode, we tell you how. Whether it is using sign language to silently communicate, or echolocation to navigate the world, anyone can be a crime fighter. We also discuss how dogs see the world through scent, how snakes see the world in heat patterns, and why Ben doesn’t think we should eat onions like apples.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on WishesArticles“What The Fluff?!” ChallengeDaniel KishHuman LocomotionModel of Human LocationBen UnderwoodFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
He-Man is a Master of the Universe, and he is granted that status by The Power of Greyskull. But what is this power? We are a science show, so we believe there is no such thing as magic…or is there? Is magic it’s own force that bind the physics of Eternia? How can it turn […]
He-Man is a Master of the Universe, and he is granted that status by The Power of Greyskull. But what is this power? We are a science show, so we believe there is no such thing as magic…or is there? Is magic it’s own force that bind the physics of Eternia? How can it turn […]
The shark is the ultimate killing machine. It does three things: swim, eat, reproduce. It has a conveyor belt of teeth which basically makes it a large, living, underwater chainsaw. The only thing that would make it deadlier is to make it bigger. Enter the Megalodon, which was just like out great white sharks, except […]
The shark is the ultimate killing machine. It does three things: swim, eat, reproduce. It has a conveyor belt of teeth which basically makes it a large, living, underwater chainsaw. The only thing that would make it deadlier is to make it bigger. Enter the Megalodon, which was just like out great white sharks, except […]
For any kid, the prospect of touring a magical chocolate factory is a dream come true, especially one whose secrets have been hidden for decades. If you are one of the lucky few with a Golden Ticket, your life will never be the same. See, Willy Wonka is not a run of the mill chocolatier: […]
For any kid, the prospect of touring a magical chocolate factory is a dream come true, especially one whose secrets have been hidden for decades. If you are one of the lucky few with a Golden Ticket, your life will never be the same. See, Willy Wonka is not a run of the mill chocolatier: […]
Who among us hasn’t wanted to find a magical lamp complete with a resident Genie to give us three wishes? Heck, I would even take a monkey paw, knowing full well that I have to phrase things exactly right to avoid unintended dire consequences. Well this week, the Brain Trust assembles to discuss wishes, how […]
Who among us hasn’t wanted to find a magical lamp complete with a resident Genie to give us three wishes? Heck, I would even take a monkey paw, knowing full well that I have to phrase things exactly right to avoid unintended dire consequences. Well this week, the Brain Trust assembles to discuss wishes, how […]
As a species, our main goal is to live forever, whatever that means. We will live for centuries in underground bunkers in a nuclear holocaust, we will freeze our bodies when we die with the hopes that one day we will be brought back to life, and we even store our DNA to make sure […]
As a species, our main goal is to live forever, whatever that means. We will live for centuries in underground bunkers in a nuclear holocaust, we will freeze our bodies when we die with the hopes that one day we will be brought back to life, and we even store our DNA to make sure […]
We have all considered the famous Haddaway quote “What is Love?”, but no one has solved it…until now. Using the tv show Quantum Leap as our inspiration, we will attempt to prove that love is a simple case of macro-level quantum entanglement. But the interesting things about this cult favorite do not stop there. We […]
We have all considered the famous Haddaway quote “What is Love?”, but no one has solved it…until now. Using the tv show Quantum Leap as our inspiration, we will attempt to prove that love is a simple case of macro-level quantum entanglement. But the interesting things about this cult favorite do not stop there. We […]
At it’s core, “A Christmas Carol” is a story about redemption. How one man’s life (and those around him) was changed for the better, and all it took was a trio of ghosts operating in the middle of the night, showing all of one’s failures to scare Scrooge straight. One would think that this was […]
At it’s core, “A Christmas Carol” is a story about redemption. How one man’s life (and those around him) was changed for the better, and all it took was a trio of ghosts operating in the middle of the night, showing all of one’s failures to scare Scrooge straight. One would think that this was […]
Inspired by the latest Mission Impossible movie, The Brain Trust discusses a worldwide computer virus that can hack into all, cameras, microphones, computers, etc. It could be the ultimate blackmail machine. So how do you stay hidden from an entity like this? We give you advice on how to limit your digital footprint, and if […]
Inspired by the latest Mission Impossible movie, The Brain Trust discusses a worldwide computer virus that can hack into all, cameras, microphones, computers, etc. It could be the ultimate blackmail machine. So how do you stay hidden from an entity like this? We give you advice on how to limit your digital footprint, and if […]
The sci-fi series “The Foundation” is about a mathematician who creates a formula predicting the end of civilization. Normally math is a pretty boring topic to discuss, but you know how much we like our doomsday conversations. Also it is important to note that this world is ruled by an emperor, or more specifically a […]
The sci-fi series “The Foundation” is about a mathematician who creates a formula predicting the end of civilization. Normally math is a pretty boring topic to discuss, but you know how much we like our doomsday conversations. Also it is important to note that this world is ruled by an emperor, or more specifically a […]
We talk about superheroes a lot on this show, and separately a lot about AI, BUT what about using them in conjunction? DJG puts his fears of a robocalypse aside and looks at the benefits of working in tandem with computers. Harnessing the power of computer intelligence alongside advanced personal defense systems may be the […]
We talk about superheroes a lot on this show, and separately a lot about AI, BUT what about using them in conjunction? DJG puts his fears of a robocalypse aside and looks at the benefits of working in tandem with computers. Harnessing the power of computer intelligence alongside advanced personal defense systems may be the […]
What do you get if you combine the danger of military-grade weapons with the excitement of 70’s muscle cars? Why the world’s most dangerous demolition derby, that’s what! This week we look at Twisted Metal, the video game/tv show that follows a group of people as they prepare for a winner-take-all battle royale tournament. We […]
What do you get if you combine the danger of military-grade weapons with the excitement of 70’s muscle cars? Why the world’s most dangerous demolition derby, that’s what! This week we look at Twisted Metal, the video game/tv show that follows a group of people as they prepare for a winner-take-all battle royale tournament. We […]
From the outside, Barbie seems to have it all: She’s attractive, smart, rich, and made of plastic. Her resume is a little suss, given that she has been everything from a cat burglar, to an astronaut without any sort of job stability, but I digress. Part of that uncertainty may be governed by her world. […]
From the outside, Barbie seems to have it all: She’s attractive, smart, rich, and made of plastic. Her resume is a little suss, given that she has been everything from a cat burglar, to an astronaut without any sort of job stability, but I digress. Part of that uncertainty may be governed by her world. […]
Dreams are a place where anything can happen, where our fantasies can become realities. The great thing is that these personal mini-movies are free, and happen on a nightly basis. But what if they weren’t entirely pro-bono? What if there was a “Dream Tax” that you had to pay, and the best dreams came at […]
Dreams are a place where anything can happen, where our fantasies can become realities. The great thing is that these personal mini-movies are free, and happen on a nightly basis. But what if they weren’t entirely pro-bono? What if there was a “Dream Tax” that you had to pay, and the best dreams came at […]
Halloween is the time to get dark, and this episode is definitely that. While we have discussed the various ways the apocalypse can happen, we haven’t even considered the most important piece of all: How it an it be stopped. Earth’s history is littered with many mass extinction events, including one that wiped out 95% […]
Halloween is the time to get dark, and this episode is definitely that. While we have discussed the various ways the apocalypse can happen, we haven’t even considered the most important piece of all: How it an it be stopped. Earth’s history is littered with many mass extinction events, including one that wiped out 95% […]
When Henry Gee Wrote “The Science of Middle Earth”, there was one thing he couldn’t figure out: The One Ring. It can read thoughts, it holds the mind of Sauron, it makes the wearer invisible, and it can change size and shape at will. Developing a “Unified Theory of the One Ring” was thought to […]
When Henry Gee Wrote “The Science of Middle Earth”, there was one thing he couldn’t figure out: The One Ring. It can read thoughts, it holds the mind of Sauron, it makes the wearer invisible, and it can change size and shape at will. Developing a “Unified Theory of the One Ring” was thought to […]
While summer may be officially over, talking about it had just begun! Some of our favorite movies are about summer camp, and this week we sit around the campfire with camping expert Andrew Keener as he spins yarns about all the fun science that you need to know while surviving outdoors. From Friday the 13th, […]
While summer may be officially over, talking about it had just begun! Some of our favorite movies are about summer camp, and this week we sit around the campfire with camping expert Andrew Keener as he spins yarns about all the fun science that you need to know while surviving outdoors. From Friday the 13th, […]
Between the three of us, we have been playing D&D for decades, which is a VERY long time. Being inspired by the latest movie “Honor Among Thieves”, we decided to look back at some of our favorite creatures, including the terrifying Mimic! This is a treasure chest that can eat you. It has a teeth-filled […]
Between the three of us, we have been playing D&D for decades, which is a VERY long time. Being inspired by the latest movie “Honor Among Thieves”, we decided to look back at some of our favorite creatures, including the terrifying Mimic! This is a treasure chest that can eat you. It has a teeth-filled […]
Are you sick of relying on word of mouth, or better yet an algorithm, to find TV shows you like? Wouldn’t it just be better if an AI-powered quantum computer just instantly made shows perfectly catered to your taste? Or better yet, you could just plug your brain into your TV and have the computer […]
Are you sick of relying on word of mouth, or better yet an algorithm, to find TV shows you like? Wouldn’t it just be better if an AI-powered quantum computer just instantly made shows perfectly catered to your taste? Or better yet, you could just plug your brain into your TV and have the computer […]
While summer may be officially over, talking about it had just begun! Some of our favorite movies are about summer camp, and this week we sit around the campfire with camping expert Andrew Keener as he spins yarns about all the fun science that you need to know while surviving outdoors. From Friday the 13th, […]
While summer may be officially over, talking about it had just begun! Some of our favorite movies are about summer camp, and this week we sit around the campfire with camping expert Andrew Keener as he spins yarns about all the fun science that you need to know while surviving outdoors. From Friday the 13th, […]
Are you sick of relying on word of mouth, or better yet an algorithm, to find TV shows you like? Wouldn’t it just be better if an AI-powered quantum computer just instantly made shows perfectly catered to your taste? Or better yet, you could just plug your brain into your TV and have the computer […]
Are you sick of relying on word of mouth, or better yet an algorithm, to find TV shows you like? Wouldn’t it just be better if an AI-powered quantum computer just instantly made shows perfectly catered to your taste? Or better yet, you could just plug your brain into your TV and have the computer […]
Current transportation technology is soooo slow. Sure you can get to another continent in an airplane, but it takes hours. What if you could instantly send your mind into a replica body anywhere in the world? How about into space? Well that is exactly what we talk about on today’s episode, using the Black Mirror episode “Beyond The Sea” as the template. We discuss remote viewing, human-like replacement bodies, bio-sod, the Terminator, and the ramifications of sending your mind into your friends body.
Podcast LinksFascinating Nouns Ep. w/ Dennin on Free WillFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Current transportation technology is soooo slow. Sure you can get to another continent in an airplane, but it takes hours. What if you could instantly send your mind into a replica body anywhere in the world? How about into space? Well that is exactly what we talk about on today’s episode, using the Black Mirror episode “Beyond The Sea” as the template. We discuss remote viewing, human-like replacement bodies, bio-sod, the Terminator, and the ramifications of sending your mind into your friends body.
Podcast LinksFascinating Nouns Ep. w/ Dennin on Free WillFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Most action movies border on the ridiculous: unlimited ammo, cars that defy gravity, and everything is on the verge of exploding, but there is one series that I think is actually totally explainable: John Wick. They count bullets, John does get hit, and the martial arts is designed to gain an advantage, not just impress. Admittedly John Wick does seem to avoid death in impossible ways, but in actuality it all makes sense. This week we explain the unkillable nature of John Wick.
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Most action movies border on the ridiculous: unlimited ammo, cars that defy gravity, and everything is on the verge of exploding, but there is one series that I think is actually totally explainable: John Wick. They count bullets, John does get hit, and the martial arts is designed to gain an advantage, not just impress. Admittedly John Wick does seem to avoid death in impossible ways, but in actuality it all makes sense. This week we explain the unkillable nature of John Wick.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on HawkeyeFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
This may be one of the weirder episodes we have done in a long time. FROM is a hit TV show about a family that becomes trapped in a small town in rural wherever. In truth they aren’t the only ones trapped, lots of other people are as well. If the strangeness of the world […]
This may be one of the weirder episodes we have done in a long time. FROM is a hit TV show about a family that becomes trapped in a small town in rural wherever. In truth they aren’t the only ones trapped, lots of other people are as well. If the strangeness of the world […]
For the first time ever, we have a special guest on the show. Kalapana Pot, of the popular TikTok account TokNerdyToMe, is here to discuss one of her favorite movies ever: Arrival. What would you do if aliens came down and parked their ships over every major city? Can a language help you see through […]
For the first time ever, we have a special guest on the show. Kalapana Pot, of the popular TikTok account TokNerdyToMe, is here to discuss one of her favorite movies ever: Arrival. What would you do if aliens came down and parked their ships over every major city? Can a language help you see through […]
It has taken us 155 episodes, but we are finally talking about the science of shrinking! Whether it’s “Fantastic Voyage”, “Honey I Shrunk The Kids”, or the latest Ant-Man Movie “Quantumania”, humans enter dangerous territory when they become microscopic. In this episode we discuss the potency of bacterial toxins, how Pym Particles could be a […]
It has taken us 155 episodes, but we are finally talking about the science of shrinking! Whether it’s “Fantastic Voyage”, “Honey I Shrunk The Kids”, or the latest Ant-Man Movie “Quantumania”, humans enter dangerous territory when they become microscopic. In this episode we discuss the potency of bacterial toxins, how Pym Particles could be a […]
We open Season 8 with one of the best sci-movies of all time: Return of the Jedi! Celebrating it’s 40th anniversary this year, this movie was a game changer. It had gigantic slug aliens, Boba Fett getting launched into a gigantic mouth, and more force power than you can shake a lightsaber at. We here […]
We open Season 8 with one of the best sci-movies of all time: Return of the Jedi! Celebrating it’s 40th anniversary this year, this movie was a game changer. It had gigantic slug aliens, Boba Fett getting launched into a gigantic mouth, and more force power than you can shake a lightsaber at. We here […]
How many of us have sliced a few mushrooms on our salad, or paid extra for a little truffle oil? It is true, fungus can be delicious, but what if you were delicious to a fungus? The Cordyceps fungus has evolved as a predator to certain insects, and when infected, They eat these insects from the inside out. Luckily for us humans, we have nothing to fear…or do we? In The Last of Us, the Cordyceps has evolved to infect humans, and which would be quite a problem. This week, we try to mentally prepare you for the eventuality of becoming a mushroom yourself.
Podcast LinksFascinating Nouns Ep. on MushroomsFascinating Nouns Ep. on Mind Controlling ParasitesFGGGbT Ep. on Giant PrisonsFGGGbT Ep. on Puzzle BoxesArticlesCordyceps In AntsThe Zombie FungusErgot May Be Responsible For Witchcraft TrialsClimate Change May Make Fungus More Dangerous To HumansFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
How many of us have sliced a few mushrooms on our salad, or paid extra for a little truffle oil? It is true, fungus can be delicious, but what if you were delicious to a fungus? The Cordyceps fungus has evolved as a predator to certain insects, and when infected, They eat these insects from the inside out. Luckily for us humans, we have nothing to fear…or do we? In The Last of Us, the Cordyceps has evolved to infect humans, and which would be quite a problem. This week, we try to mentally prepare you for the eventuality of becoming a mushroom yourself.
Podcast LinksFascinating Nouns Ep. on MushroomsFascinating Nouns Ep. on Mind Controlling ParasitesFGGGbT Ep. on Giant PrisonsFGGGbT Ep. on Puzzle BoxesArticlesCordyceps In AntsThe Zombie FungusErgot May Be Responsible For Witchcraft TrialsClimate Change May Make Fungus More Dangerous To HumansFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Like most people, we love a good murder mystery. One of the often overlooked elements to creating an excellent experience is the invitation. How do you get everyone together in a memorable way? Well in the movie Glass Onion, they nailed it by creating the most elaborate puzzle box ever made. We take a look at all the elements, including Magic Eye, a Japanese Sliding box, the music of Sebastian Bach, and the impossible to complete “Golf Tee Jumping Game”. We also consider the rise of the “Tech Bro Supervillain”, and the relationship between madness and genius. Do you need to be eccentric to be considered brilliant? Listen to find out!
The awesome art for this episode was borrowed from a New Yorker article, and was illustrated by Kristian Hammerstad.
Podcast LinksFascinating Nouns Ep. on Local NewspapersArticlesHistory of the Tech Bro SupervillainHow Magic Eye WorksNumerology in Bach’s MusicJapanese Puzzle BoxSebastian Bach Little Fugue in G MinorFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Like most people, we love a good murder mystery. One of the often overlooked elements to creating an excellent experience is the invitation. How do you get everyone together in a memorable way? Well in the movie Glass Onion, they nailed it by creating the most elaborate puzzle box ever made. We take a look at all the elements, including Magic Eye, a Japanese Sliding box, the music of Sebastian Bach, and the impossible to complete “Golf Tee Jumping Game”. We also consider the rise of the “Tech Bro Supervillain”, and the relationship between madness and genius. Do you need to be eccentric to be considered brilliant? Listen to find out!
The awesome art for this episode was borrowed from a New Yorker article, and was illustrated by Kristian Hammerstad.
Podcast LinksFascinating Nouns Ep. on Local NewspapersArticlesHistory of the Tech Bro SupervillainHow Magic Eye WorksNumerology in Bach’s MusicJapanese Puzzle BoxSebastian Bach Little Fugue in G MinorFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Prison is a place you definitely don’t want to find yourself, but if you do, I can guarantee you will want to get out. This would especially be true if the prison was the size of Manhattan Island, like we see in the 1980’s classic “Escape From New York”. Here, anti-hero Snake Plissken has to rescue the President from the very Prison Industrial Complex that he helped create. We will also talk about the famous Alcatraz escape, which maybe be the best prison story of all time. Not only do we discuss escaping, but we will also help you be better equipped for prison, including introductions to Jolly Rancher based weapons and make-shift crossbows. And make sure to listen to the end for an award-winning recipe for Pruno, the classic prison wine.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Mammoth ParksFGGGbT Ep. on Evolution of TechnologyFascinating Nouns Ep. on Cancel CultureFascinating Nouns Ep. on History of WhiskeyFascinating Nouns Ep. on The O.S.S.ArticlesDIY Prison WeaponsTop Ten Prison InnovationsPrison Wine RecipeSan Pedro Self-Governing PrisonFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Prison is a place you definitely don’t want to find yourself, but if you do, I can guarantee you will want to get out. This would especially be true if the prison was the size of Manhattan Island, like we see in the 1980’s classic “Escape From New York”. Here, anti-hero Snake Plissken has to rescue the President from the very Prison Industrial Complex that he helped create. We will also talk about the famous Alcatraz escape, which maybe be the best prison story of all time. Not only do we discuss escaping, but we will also help you be better equipped for prison, including introductions to Jolly Rancher based weapons and make-shift crossbows. And make sure to listen to the end for an award-winning recipe for Pruno, the classic prison wine.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Mammoth ParksFGGGbT Ep. on Evolution of TechnologyFascinating Nouns Ep. on Cancel CultureFascinating Nouns Ep. on History of WhiskeyFascinating Nouns Ep. on The O.S.S.ArticlesDIY Prison WeaponsTop Ten Prison InnovationsPrison Wine RecipeSan Pedro Self-Governing PrisonFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
We have all seen Jurassic Park, and despite the obvious flaws and clear security risks, I think we all want to see real dinosaurs. This will probably never happen BUT what if we could bring something back that was a bit smaller, cuddlier, and way more possible? In this episode, the Brain Trust contemplates opening up a park occupied by woolly mammoths. There may be a scientific path to this, given that there is a real mummified mammoth in Siberia. It is much easier to extract DNA from something preserved rather than taking your chances on amber encrusted with mosquitoes. Plus we talk about other possible park residents, including the dodo, the black rhinoceros, and the thylacine.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on FlintstonesFGGGbT Ep. on Artificial WombsArticlesBeth Shapiro Discusses Cloning MammothsTed Talk by Semyon Grigorev on MammothsResurrection of Animals Could Hurt Conservation EffortsAnimals We Should ResurrectScientists Want To Bring Back the DodoSouth Korean Scientist Masters Dog CloningFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
We have all seen Jurassic Park, and despite the obvious flaws and clear security risks, I think we all want to see real dinosaurs. This will probably never happen BUT what if we could bring something back that was a bit smaller, cuddlier, and way more possible? In this episode, the Brain Trust contemplates opening up a park occupied by woolly mammoths. There may be a scientific path to this, given that there is a real mummified mammoth in Siberia. It is much easier to extract DNA from something preserved rather than taking your chances on amber encrusted with mosquitoes. Plus we talk about other possible park residents, including the dodo, the black rhinoceros, and the thylacine.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on FlintstonesFGGGbT Ep. on Artificial WombsArticlesBeth Shapiro Discusses Cloning MammothsTed Talk by Semyon Grigorev on MammothsResurrection of Animals Could Hurt Conservation EffortsAnimals We Should ResurrectScientists Want To Bring Back the DodoSouth Korean Scientist Masters Dog CloningFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
In this day and age, who wants to go through the hassle of being pregnant. I know you sure don’t. Luckily, now there is Build-A-Baby. Out state of the art facility baby factory will let you experience the joys of having a child without the inconvenience. Remotely monitor your baby’s growth through our video system, which has a 360 degree view of our fully transparent artificial womb. Throw on a haptic suit for the fully immersive experience. Feel your pre-born kick in real time without the chance of damaging internal organs. And here is the real advantage of our system: A full suite of customizable genes to ensure you get the exact baby you want. No more dependence on the random elements of nature. You can do a ground-up build, including final height, precise IQ, and a hair/eye color. Be confident your infant will be defect free with Build-A-Baby! Order yours today!
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Digital AfterlifeFGGGbT Ep. on I Am MotherFascinating Nouns Ep. on Nathan LentsFascinating Nouns Ep. on ClownsFGGGbT Ep. on Mars VS The MoonArticlesThe First Human Artificial WombsEchoLife VideoFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
In this day and age, who wants to go through the hassle of being pregnant. I know you sure don’t. Luckily, now there is Build-A-Baby. Out state of the art facility baby factory will let you experience the joys of having a child without the inconvenience. Remotely monitor your baby’s growth through our video system, which has a 360 degree view of our fully transparent artificial womb. Throw on a haptic suit for the fully immersive experience. Feel your pre-born kick in real time without the chance of damaging internal organs. And here is the real advantage of our system: A full suite of customizable genes to ensure you get the exact baby you want. No more dependence on the random elements of nature. You can do a ground-up build, including final height, precise IQ, and a hair/eye color. Be confident your infant will be defect free with Build-A-Baby! Order yours today!
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Digital AfterlifeFGGGbT Ep. on I Am MotherFascinating Nouns Ep. on Nathan LentsFascinating Nouns Ep. on ClownsFGGGbT Ep. on Mars VS The MoonArticlesThe First Human Artificial WombsEchoLife VideoFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Whether it’s extreme climate change, a robot uprising, the zombie apocalypse, or the elite getting itchy feet, human beings are leaving this planet. The only question that remains is where. Do we make a new home on our nearby neighbor The Moon, or do we make the trek across the solar system to Mars, the Red Planet? In this episode we break down the pros and cons of each, and give you everything you need to know so you can make the right choice. We will compare the distance from Earth, how easy it is to grow crops, how do deal with wild temperature fluctuations, and how to successfully utilize night soil. We will have you making your way as a new Martian/Moontonian in no time.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Evolution of TechnologyFGGGbT Ep. The TerrorFGGGbT Ep. on Underwater CitiesArticlesColonizing The MoonFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Whether it’s extreme climate change, a robot uprising, the zombie apocalypse, or the elite getting itchy feet, human beings are leaving this planet. The only question that remains is where. Do we make a new home on our nearby neighbor The Moon, or do we make the trek across the solar system to Mars, the Red Planet? In this episode we break down the pros and cons of each, and give you everything you need to know so you can make the right choice. We will compare the distance from Earth, how easy it is to grow crops, how do deal with wild temperature fluctuations, and how to successfully utilize night soil. We will have you making your way as a new Martian/Moontonian in no time.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Evolution of TechnologyFGGGbT Ep. The TerrorFGGGbT Ep. on Underwater CitiesArticlesColonizing The MoonFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
It is official, Artificial Intelligence is here and it is slowly taking over. But is that a bad thing? Yes. But is it really? Also yes, BUT we do have a member of the Brain Trust who is much more optimistic. In this episode, Dr. Michael Dennin lays out his argument on how AI isn’t really intelligent, isn’t dangerous, and will NOT cause the apocalypse. We talk about psychopathic robots, free will and consciousness, the inevitability of AI escaping into the mainstream, and how everything lies on a spectrum of intelligence.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Mitchell’s VS The MachinesFGGGbT Ep. The MatrixFGGGbT Ep. WestworldArticlesGoogle Engineer Discovers AI SentientSocial Media Changes The Brains of ChildrenTV Hosts Being Replaced By AI RobotsAI Being Used by HollywoodFirst Robot LawyerFacial Recognition Software Misused By Madison Square GardenChat GPT Passes Medical Licensing and Bar ExamFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
It is official, Artificial Intelligence is here and it is slowly taking over. But is that a bad thing? Yes. But is it really? Also yes, BUT we do have a member of the Brain Trust who is much more optimistic. In this episode, Dr. Michael Dennin lays out his argument on how AI isn’t really intelligent, isn’t dangerous, and will NOT cause the apocalypse. We talk about psychopathic robots, free will and consciousness, the inevitability of AI escaping into the mainstream, and how everything lies on a spectrum of intelligence.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Mitchell’s VS The MachinesFGGGbT Ep. The MatrixFGGGbT Ep. WestworldArticlesGoogle Engineer Discovers AI SentientSocial Media Changes The Brains of ChildrenTV Hosts Being Replaced By AI RobotsAI Being Used by HollywoodFirst Robot LawyerFacial Recognition Software Misused By Madison Square GardenChat GPT Passes Medical Licensing and Bar ExamFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Technology is a way to mark Man’s progress through time. With only a few exceptions, as a species we are constantly advancing forward, with each new gadget being built on the foundation of an old gizmo. Modern cell phones replaced the home phone that was connected to your wall, which replaced letters sent from far away. Before paper, people just went over to each other’s hut to talk. In this episode, The Brain Trust looks at where technology is, where it came from, and possibly where it is going. We will talk about how the automobile completely replaced the horse drawn carriage, how the Mars rover has it’s roots in the Wright Brothers, and how modern streaming services are connected to Shakespeare.
Podcast LinksFascinating Nouns Ep. on Local NewspapersFascinating Nouns Ep. on the Paranormal RangersFGGGbT Ep. on The Hunger GamesArticlesSocial Media Changes The Brains of ChildrenFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Technology is a way to mark Man’s progress through time. With only a few exceptions, as a species we are constantly advancing forward, with each new gadget being built on the foundation of an old gizmo. Modern cell phones replaced the home phone that was connected to your wall, which replaced letters sent from far away. Before paper, people just went over to each other’s hut to talk. In this episode, The Brain Trust looks at where technology is, where it came from, and possibly where it is going. We will talk about how the automobile completely replaced the horse drawn carriage, how the Mars rover has it’s roots in the Wright Brothers, and how modern streaming services are connected to Shakespeare.
Podcast LinksFascinating Nouns Ep. on Local NewspapersFascinating Nouns Ep. on the Paranormal RangersFGGGbT Ep. on The Hunger GamesArticlesSocial Media Changes The Brains of ChildrenFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
I know we have done several shows lately on the technology of the Victorian Era, but the TV show 1899 is completely unique. There are weird portals, black pyramids, and retro computers controlling steamships. Where to begin? Well this week The Brain Trust explains it all. Could you retrofit a steam ship with 1970’s computers? Is it possible to completely freeze time and still walk around? Is triangle shaped Morse Code better than the traditional dot system? The key to all of it may lie in Dennin’s newly revealed superpower: The ability to solve ANY slide puzzle! Don’t worry, once you listen, it will all make sense.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on DarkFGGGbT Ep. on SteampunkFGGGbT Ep. on The Hunger GamesArticlesWhy Morse Code Was InventedFacts About Morse CodeFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
I know we have done several shows lately on the technology of the Victorian Era, but the TV show 1899 is completely unique. There are weird portals, black pyramids, and retro computers controlling steamships. Where to begin? Well this week The Brain Trust explains it all. Could you retrofit a steam ship with 1970’s computers? Is it possible to completely freeze time and still walk around? Is triangle shaped Morse Code better than the traditional dot system? The key to all of it may lie in Dennin’s newly revealed superpower: The ability to solve ANY slide puzzle! Don’t worry, once you listen, it will all make sense.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on DarkFGGGbT Ep. on SteampunkFGGGbT Ep. on The Hunger GamesArticlesWhy Morse Code Was InventedFacts About Morse CodeFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
If you ever happen to find yourself in a battle royale style fight to the finish, then this is the episode for you. Inspired by The Hunger Games, The Brain Trust walk through the essential survival strategies that will ensure you end up in first place. Remember, there is no second place. So what should you do first? Do you team up with others or go it alone? Do you partner with the psychopath even though they are an unpredictable loose cannon, or do you create a band of smaller but more numerous nerds who can build gadgets? Do you specialize in a ranged weapon like a bow or do you want to make sure the job is done with a sword or knife? No matter your situation, we will give you the tips that will help you win the day.
Podcast LinksFascinating Nouns w/ Guy WindsorFascinatign Nouns Ep. on Holiday CakesArticles
How to Survive on Survivor
NPR Article on Survivor
FGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
If you ever happen to find yourself in a battle royale style fight to the finish, then this is the episode for you. Inspired by The Hunger Games, The Brain Trust walk through the essential survival strategies that will ensure you end up in first place. Remember, there is no second place. So what should you do first? Do you team up with others or go it alone? Do you partner with the psychopath even though they are an unpredictable loose cannon, or do you create a band of smaller but more numerous nerds who can build gadgets? Do you specialize in a ranged weapon like a bow or do you want to make sure the job is done with a sword or knife? No matter your situation, we will give you the tips that will help you win the day.
Podcast LinksFascinating Nouns w/ Guy WindsorFascinatign Nouns Ep. on Holiday CakesArticlesHow to Survive on SurvivorNPR Article on SurvivorFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Here is our first year end wrap up, the half-decade edition! The Brain Trust gets together to discuss some of the things we left unexplored in previous episodes. It is an extravaganza of information! We talk about getting stuck on a far away planet, Polaroid pictures, shoreline cities, unsolvable problems, Dungeons and Dragons, Goober spread, and the unique life path that makes us, well, us.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Everything Everywhere All At OnceFGGGbT Ep. on Ghostbusters and Polaroid FilmFascinating Nouns Ep. MustardFGGGbT Ep. on Star Trek VoyagerFGGGbT Ep. on Arctic SurvivalFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Here is our first year end wrap up, the half-decade edition! The Brain Trust gets together to discuss some of the things we left unexplored in previous episodes. It is an extravaganza of information! We talk about getting stuck on a far away planet, Polaroid pictures, shoreline cities, unsolvable problems, Dungeons and Dragons, Goober spread, and the unique life path that makes us, well, us.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Everything Everywhere All At OnceFGGGbT Ep. on Ghostbusters and Polaroid FilmFascinating Nouns Ep. MustardFGGGbT Ep. on Star Trek VoyagerFGGGbT Ep. on Arctic SurvivalFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Last week we discussed a world before exploration, one where you could hide your most valuable possession and it wouldn’t be found for centuries. Now imagine that same world, but the place you are exploring is the freezing Arctic, and the possession you are hiding is your life? That is pretty much what we are talking about in this episode as we discuss being trapped in the arctic ice for years, having only Victorian era technology at your disposal. That is the situation the people of The Lost Franklin expedition found themselves in in 1845. We discuss the differences between surviving in the desert VS the permafrost, why icebergs were such a problem, how to avoid getting black gums, the dangers of early canned food, and of course the ultimate taboo in a survival situation: Cannibalism.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on NopeFascinating Nouns Ep. on The Donner PartyFascinating Nouns Ep. on the Friendly Trait in DogsArticlesLead Poisoning and Franklin’s Lost ExpeditionResearch Debunking Lead Poisoning TheoryHuman Flavored Tofu – HufuFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Last week we discussed a world before exploration, one where you could hide your most valuable possession and it wouldn’t be found for centuries. Now imagine that same world, but the place you are exploring is the freezing Arctic, and the possession you are hiding is your life? That is pretty much what we are talking about in this episode as we discuss being trapped in the arctic ice for years, having only Victorian era technology at your disposal. That is the situation the people of The Lost Franklin expedition found themselves in in 1845. We discuss the differences between surviving in the desert VS the permafrost, why icebergs were such a problem, how to avoid getting black gums, the dangers of early canned food, and of course the ultimate taboo in a survival situation: Cannibalism.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on NopeFascinating Nouns Ep. on The Donner PartyFascinating Nouns Ep. on the Friendly Trait in DogsArticlesLead Poisoning and Franklin’s Lost ExpeditionResearch Debunking Lead Poisoning TheoryHuman Flavored Tofu – HufuFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Who doesn’t love a good scavenger hunt? You take a team and race all over a city taking pictures, getting items, and visiting cool places. But how much MORE fun would it be to race all over the world, collect treasure, and visit ancient hidden rooms? Now add the chance of death, and you have a pretty exciting adventure on your hands. But what would it take to put something like this together? How could you keep your treasure hidden for centuries? What do you do if the door of your antechamber becomes a Papa Johns? Those are the queries we explore in this episode. We also take a look at the flat Earth theory, how Ben was robbed by James Randi, and how to not end up like Chester Copperpot.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on NopeFGGGbT Ep. on The GooniesFascinating Nouns Ep. on Guy WindsorArticlesMagellan’s ExpeditionPickpocket MagicPicking a WalletStealing a WatchHistory of the Safety Deposit BoxLast Member of an Uncontacted Tribe in Brazil DiesFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
Who doesn’t love a good scavenger hunt? You take a team and race all over a city taking pictures, getting items, and visiting cool places. But how much MORE fun would it be to race all over the world, collect treasure, and visit ancient hidden rooms? Now add the chance of death, and you have a pretty exciting adventure on your hands. But what would it take to put something like this together? How could you keep your treasure hidden for centuries? What do you do if the door of your antechamber becomes a Papa Johns? Those are the queries we explore in this episode. We also take a look at the flat Earth theory, how Ben was robbed by James Randi, and how to not end up like Chester Copperpot.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on NopeFGGGbT Ep. on The GooniesFascinating Nouns Ep. on Guy WindsorArticlesMagellan’s ExpeditionPickpocket MagicPicking a WalletStealing a WatchHistory of the Safety Deposit BoxLast Member of an Uncontacted Tribe in Brazil DiesFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
We have discussed aliens and UFO’s on the show several times, thanks to Dr. Dennin’s expertise in ancient aliens. But we haven’t discussed the possibility that the disc shaped objects in our skies are NOT spaceships, but actually biological creatures. Luckily that is EXACTLY what Jordan Peele explores in his latest movie “Nope”. We answer some of the obvious questions that this phenomenon would raise: How could a creature that large go undetected for so long? How many humans would they have consume in order to reproduce asexually? Can they really cause electrical outages like a reverse eel? Plus Dennin somehow brings Winnie the Pooh into the conversation.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Beavis and ButtheadArticlesOnly Person To Be Hit With a Meteorite and LiveFirst Motion FlipbookFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
We have discussed aliens and UFO’s on the show several times, thanks to Dr. Dennin’s expertise in ancient aliens. But we haven’t discussed the possibility that the disc shaped objects in our skies are NOT spaceships, but actually biological creatures. Luckily that is EXACTLY what Jordan Peele explores in his latest movie “Nope”. We answer some of the obvious questions that this phenomenon would raise: How could a creature that large go undetected for so long? How many humans would they have consume in order to reproduce asexually? Can they really cause electrical outages like a reverse eel? Plus Dennin somehow brings Winnie the Pooh into the conversation.
Podcast LinksFGGGbT Ep. on Beavis and ButtheadArticlesOnly Person To Be Hit With a Meteorite and LiveFirst Motion FlipbookFGGGbT On Social MediaFacebookTwitter
In 1947, something crashed in the New Mexico desert, just outside Roswell New Mexico. Many said it was an extraterrestrial craft carrying the bodies of several alien creatures. Whether or not you believe the story, this event kicked off the modern UFO movement as we know it today. What if this happened 100 years earlier? […]
In 1947, something crashed in the New Mexico desert, just outside Roswell New Mexico. Many said it was an extraterrestrial craft carrying the bodies of several alien creatures. Whether or not you believe the story, this event kicked off the modern UFO movement as we know it today. What if this happened 100 years earlier? […]
Our previous episode was on merfolk (mermaid/merman), but what if the human race doesn’t have time to evolve before the glaciers melt and we are all underwater. What should we do? We need to get moving on building underwater cities, is what I say. This week we go over all the essentials for your underwater […]
Our previous episode was on merfolk (mermaid/merman), but what if the human race doesn’t have time to evolve before the glaciers melt and we are all underwater. What should we do? We need to get moving on building underwater cities, is what I say. This week we go over all the essentials for your underwater […]
A wise crab once said “Under the sea, darling it’s better down where it’s better, take it from me”. While we shouldn’t go taking advice from random crustaceans, this one might be on to something. What would life be like for humans if we evolved to live underwater? Would we have been able to create […]
A wise crab once said “Under the sea, darling it’s better down where it’s better, take it from me”. While we shouldn’t go taking advice from random crustaceans, this one might be on to something. What would life be like for humans if we evolved to live underwater? Would we have been able to create […]
Ever since 1969, we have been a space faring race, that is if you happened to be one of rare few who were selected to fly into orbit. Not anymore! Several companies are offering top flight service into the stratosphere, provided you are a bazillionaire. As with all things, the price will come down, but […]
Ever since 1969, we have been a space faring race, that is if you happened to be one of rare few who were selected to fly into orbit. Not anymore! Several companies are offering top flight service into the stratosphere, provided you are a bazillionaire. As with all things, the price will come down, but […]
If the deluge of paranormal shows tells us one thing, it is that America has a serious ghost problem. They don’t just live in abandoned psychiatric hospitals or old mansions, they can be anywhere, which is why you have to be prepared. Enter The Ghostbusters. With their PKE meters and electromagnetic traps, they set the […]
If the deluge of paranormal shows tells us one thing, it is that America has a serious ghost problem. They don’t just live in abandoned psychiatric hospitals or old mansions, they can be anywhere, which is why you have to be prepared. Enter The Ghostbusters. With their PKE meters and electromagnetic traps, they set the […]
This is one episode where science and religion combine, so get ready for a ride. Moon Knight is a story about a guy who is bestowed the power of an Egyptian god, and becomes his avatar on Earth. What does that mean? Can someone be both human and divine at the same time? Most people […]
This is one episode where science and religion combine, so get ready for a ride. Moon Knight is a story about a guy who is bestowed the power of an Egyptian god, and becomes his avatar on Earth. What does that mean? Can someone be both human and divine at the same time? Most people […]
This is one episode where science and religion combine, so get ready for a ride. Moon Knight is a story about a guy who is bestowed the power of an Egyptian god, and becomes his avatar on Earth. What does that mean? Can someone be both human and divine at the same time? Most people […]
This is one episode where science and religion combine, so get ready for a ride. Moon Knight is a story about a guy who is bestowed the power of an Egyptian god, and becomes his avatar on Earth. What does that mean? Can someone be both human and divine at the same time? Most people […]
Besides those with a crippling fear of heights, who among us hasn’t wanted to fly a fighter jet over majestic mountains? Maybe even get into a dogfight with a MiG or two, possibly going at speeds surpassing the sound barrier? This may sound like a good time (and I am sure it is), but you […]
Besides those with a crippling fear of heights, who among us hasn’t wanted to fly a fighter jet over majestic mountains? Maybe even get into a dogfight with a MiG or two, possibly going at speeds surpassing the sound barrier? This may sound like a good time (and I am sure it is), but you […]
We once again take a look at our favorite anthology series Love Death + Robots, and choose three fantastic stories to analyze, including how zombies are made (and the gut bacteria that control them), as well as a discussion on the typical caloric intake would be per day. Then we take a look at human […]
We once again take a look at our favorite anthology series Love Death + Robots, and choose three fantastic stories to analyze, including how zombies are made (and the gut bacteria that control them), as well as a discussion on the typical caloric intake would be per day. Then we take a look at human […]
This episode is inspired by the Netflix series Dark, a show about time loops that is almost as complicated as time loops themselves. In it we have a town that is built around a cave that has a series of tunnels that lead to very three specific time periods, that are exactly 33 years apart. […]
This episode is inspired by the Netflix series Dark, a show about time loops that is almost as complicated as time loops themselves. In it we have a town that is built around a cave that has a series of tunnels that lead to very three specific time periods, that are exactly 33 years apart. […]
In the quantum multiverse theory, every possible version of you exists. There is a version of you that can play guitar, or can run a marathon, or even solve a Rubik’s cube. This week we explore the possibility of tapping into this phenomenon by jumping from body/brain to body/brain, Quantum Leap style utilizing extremely low […]
In the quantum multiverse theory, every possible version of you exists. There is a version of you that can play guitar, or can run a marathon, or even solve a Rubik’s cube. This week we explore the possibility of tapping into this phenomenon by jumping from body/brain to body/brain, Quantum Leap style utilizing extremely low […]
This is the time of year where millions of people pretend to own a football team, and spend the next 5 months obsessing over it. Wouldn’t it be more fun to manage your own superhero team? We think so! For our Season 7 premiere, each member of The Brain Trust drafted their own super-powered faction, […]
This is the time of year where millions of people pretend to own a football team, and spend the next 5 months obsessing over it. Wouldn’t it be more fun to manage your own superhero team? We think so! For our Season 7 premiere, each member of The Brain Trust drafted their own super-powered faction, […]
The Joker from the 1989 film Batman said it best: “Where does he get those wonderful toys?” This is a question that is quintessential to Batman, as no matter the iteration, he has an amazing array of gadgets and gizmos to help him fight crime in Gotham City. The latest movie version, The Batman, is […]
We have done a LOT about the science of time travel, but what about the ramifications of time travel? We all know about the grandfather paradox, but what about the puberty paradox? That states that you shouldn’t go back and visit yourself as a kid for fear of altering your life course forever. Well in […]
Inspired by the latest Spider-Man movie No Way Home, this week we discuss how you could make the world forget that you exist. This is no easy task, but believe it or not, it can be done. We are going to go over how you can disappear from public view, much like spies or people […]
The bow and arrow is one of man’s very first technologically advanced projectile weapons. Throwing a rock was probably first, but archery was leaps and bounds ahead of that. Gunpowder made the bow basically obsolete by replacing it with the significantly more accurate and deadly boomstick. Or did it? As it turns out, archery is […]
The land of Hyrule is like no other: It is filled with monsters that both can kill our main character Link, but they also hold key items that ensure his survival such as hearts and rupies. Guiding from behind the scenes is the powerful Princess Zelda who seems to know a lot about the inner […]
Every superhero has an origin story, and Mario is no exception. Back in 1981 he was just a carpenter minding his own business until a large gorilla saw King Kong one too many times and stole his girlfriend Pauline. Thrust into the spotlight, Mario was forced to use his carpentry skills to destroy barrels being […]
The goal of nature is always to reach equilibrium, whether it is the ratio of predator to prey, or the proper amount of salt in the ocean. Three seems to be the magical number of balance, and nowhere is that more apparent than the classic game Rock-Paper-Scissors. The key is that no one choice is […]
Let’s say you find yourself on a deserted island in the middle of the ocean, and your entire life has been spent playing Minecraft and watching Gilligan’s Island reruns. Will you survive? After listening to this episode, of course you will! This week, you will learn the importance of following (not planting) a tech tree, […]
Steampunk is a retro science fiction genre taking place in the steam powered world of the Victorian Era. It is known for gear-based robots, hydrogen airships, and of course a reliance on steam engines to power their society. This week we break down what it would be like to advance society without electricity, in including […]
Whether you are a fan of H. P. Lovecraft, curious about other parallel dimensions, or just want to escape our reality, we have all wondered what it would take to open a portal to another world. In other episodes we discussed the science behind portals, but most of our solutions require advanced technology. Is there […]
We have talked a lot on this show about superpowers: Where they come from, how they are related to genetic mutations, and why your gut biome always seems to be involved. But we have never questioned why every superpower seems to be so great. This week we explore what it would be like if superpowers […]
The world of Doctor Who obviously revolves around the eponymous main character, but what does it take to save the universe over, and over, and over? How hard is that job really, and in the end, would you want it? That is the ultimate question we have had over our series, and one we answer […]
It is true that every hero has their share of villains they must contend with. Superman has Lex Luthor, Spider-man has Doc Ock, Batman has The Joker, and Doctor Who has The Daleks. While the Daleks might be the most scary with their catchphrase of “Exterminate”, the Cybermen are also terrifying with their threats of […]
Doctor Who is a show based in logic, science, and reason. Oh and also strange alien monsters. One of the fun things the show does is take creatures we are familiar with through myth and legend and give them entirely new histories. In this episode we will look at three of these creatures including Vampires, […]
The world of Doctor Who spans 39 non-consecutive seasons, several movies, and the obligatory spin-offs. This means there is a TON of material on the last Timelord, so we had to do a 4 part series to cover everything. In this first episode, we take a look at the time-traveling TARDIS, The Doctor’s faithful companion. […]
The Matrix is one of the most influential Sci-fi movies of all time. In it, human beings are born into pods where they power an entire race of machines. Humans are not aware of this, because at birth everyone is plugged into a vast digital universe called The Matrix that everyone believes is the real […]
It is highly likely that this Holiday season you will see some iteration of the classic Charles Dickens tale “A Christmas Carol”. I would imagine apart from Hamlet, this is the most performed story in human history. While the narrative is always basically the same, the twists that make it unique to the time are […]
It is no secret that humans have been pursuing immortality ever since the first one died. How does one achieve eternal life without becoming a vampire? Upgrades of course. As your body breaks down, it is only natural that would want to either replace your body parts with robotic improvements or hack into your existing […]
In just the past 100 years, we have seen an exponential growth in our technological abilities. We have instantaneous communication across the world, weapons that can annihilate whole countries, and we can customize our genetics at birth. Using the Marvel movie Shang Chi as our inspiration, we ponder the question: “Could you take over all […]
This episode comes out on Thanksgiving, and I can’t help but wonder what the holiday would be like if the pilgrims landed on an America that was one giant desert. Would we spend it eating sandworm and mashed cactus? What would pumpkin pie taste like if it was seasoned with the mind-altering spice found on […]
As we sit an experience a worldwide viral pandemic, one can not help but wonder what would happen if it morphed into a full-blown viral apocalypse. How would you survive? That is the question we answer this week as we explore the various possibilities using Y The Last Man as our guide. The show adds […]
The main technology in Reminiscence centers around storing, projecting, and reliving your memories. This is a really cool idea, and in some ways it goes along really well with our digital upload episode. We definitely get into this, but this show takes a very interesting turn by discussing the urban effects on massive climate change […]
We all have dreams, be them metaphorical or literal. When we dream, we are in our perfect place, one where all our deepest desires come true. In them, we achieve greatness, and can be anything we want to be. It is our ultimate safe place, unless of course you live with Freddy Krueger on Elm […]
This episode is coming out just in time for Halloween, and the only thing that is scarier than getting old is getting aging as an accelerated rate. This week, we use the M. Night Shyamalan movie “Old” as the template for our discussion about animals that live an extremely short time, including the mayfly, which […]
The Marvel TV series “What If…?” is about alternate timelines where your favorite superheroes choose a different path which completely alters their world. Some have devastating consequences. Others, like Peggy Carter taking Super Soldier Serum and becoming Captain Carter, represent an ideal timeline. We are going to discuss the advantages of the butterfly effect in […]
Every human on this planet has two things in common: We are all going to die one day. This goes hand in hand with our other common trait: We don’t want to. Surviving as long as possible is built right into our DNA. Billionaires all over the world are pouring money into life extension technologies, […]
When it comes to the perfect form of renewable energy, I think the good creatures at Monsters, Inc. have cracked the code. Originally harnessing the power of children’s screams, they quickly found out that laughter is a much more efficient way to power a city. There is the obvious exploitation of children angle, but we […]
In celebration of our 100th episode, The Brain Trust looks forward and makes some bold predictions about the future, and the technology that will get us there. We cover some of the big topics we have hinted at in other episodes, including the energy revolution, living in space, and even a guess at how humanity […]
Imagine a future so bleak, where humanity is on the verge of collapse, and their only course of action is to send people back in time to change the future. The first part of that is pretty easy to imagine, but what about that second part? This is where Travelers is truly innovative. Instead of […]
M.O.D.O.K. is an evil scientist who is running a tech company with aspirations to take over the world. He also has a wife, two kids, and is going through a midlife crisis. That is the basic story-line of this completely unique Marvel series. It does boast the strangest assortment of obscure villains, as well as […]
Since the Cold War, the American public has been obsessed with espionage. From James Bond, to Ethan Hunt, and now Natasha Romanoff, spies have become heroes to a lot of people. While typically known for crazy gadgets, Black Widow takes a more forceful approach. She relies on martial arts to get the job done, but […]
Loki, the god of mischief is the misguided brother of Thor, the god of thunder. Considering how much cooler thunder is than mischief, I can see where Loki believes he got the short end of the stick. But what if there was an alternate universe where Loki was the god of thunder instead of Thor? […]
A civilization ending virus, animal hybrid children, and a weird purple flower are all strangely connected in this comic book adaptation about a boy with deer antlers who is on a quest to find his mother who is a scientist that may hold the key to the entire story. We try to connect the dots […]
What would you do if the robot apocalypse happened to coincide with your first day at college, and your family was humanity’s only hope? That is the quandary that The Mitchell family finds themselves in. The real question is: Who is responsible for bringing about the robacalypse? Was it a malicious computer programmer? Was it […]
What do you think you would do if you went on a retreat with your partner, and while investigating the grounds by yourself, you came across another version of your partner stuck in a house? Would you think you were hallucinating? In another dimension? The center of an elaborate prank? Well this is exactly what […]
Love, Death + Robots is an anthology series in the vein of Dark Mirror and The Twilight Zone, except animated. Every episode takes you on a sci-fi ride through new planets, advanced technologies, and cutting edge science. Since that is exactly how I would describe our show, analyzing this one was the perfect choice! This […]
2021 marks the 25th anniversary of the Resident Evil franchise which spans movies, television, and obviously video games. Few properties have had this level of influence across all forms of media. If you mention the Umbrella Corporation to most people, they will cringe and look over their shoulder, half expecting to see the Nemesis chasing […]
The mantle of Captain America is arguably the most important role in the Marvel universe. Cap stands for the ideals of America, and his shield is a crucial symbol for the fight against injustice. When it is vacated, the question becomes: Who will wield the shield? That is the important question in this series. But […]
What would happen if we were able to find your perfect match, someone you were guaranteed to fall in love with, simply by analyzing your DNA? This is the premise of the Netflix series The One. This technology raises a lot of fundamental questions: What is love? What is happiness? Is that encoded into our […]
When people think of dream matches throughout history, a couple of thoughts immediately spring to mind: Muhammad Ali VS Mike Tyson, Hulk Hogan VS Ric Flair, the 72 Dolphins VS the 85 Bears. This week we tackle the obvious omission from that list: Godzilla VS King Kong. Kong was introduced in 1933, but these two […]
On its surface, the world of cartoon physics is extraordinarily complex. Gravity seems to have an on/off switch, animals can move at impossible speeds, and some items seem to have a mind of their own. Now try taking those laws and overlaying them on the live action world, the one governed by Newtonian physics. That […]
Everybody, at some point or another, has had an interest in dinosaurs. They are gigantic, fascinating creatures, that are unlike anything alive today. I makes sense that as we learn more about DNA and how it works, it will become inevitable that someone will try to bring back a T-Rex. This week we discuss how […]
From the first time you lay eyes on the Mogwai Gizmo, it is hard to imagine that something that adorable has the potential to unleash a horde of evil gremlins simply by disregarding a few rules. I mean, how do you exist as an animal if you can’t get wet? Everything has to drink water […]
Indiana Jones is the man credited with making archeology cool. A professor by day and a bullwhip toting, fedora wearing, idol snatching adventurer by night, he has more in common with a superhero than an academic. He also gets himself in a lot of danger, and this movie is no exception. Listen as we explain […]
If you are looking for a movie with adventure, treasure maps, pirate ships, crazy gadgets, and an organ made out of human bones, then The Goonies is exactly what you are looking for! We kick off “Spielberg Spring” with this classic about a group of kids who go looking for a fabled treasure stash in […]
Phineas & Ferb are two kids who, along with their brilliant friends, are able to build some incredible technology. They are only rivaled by Dr. Doofenschmirtz and his “inators”. While discussing their latest movie “Candace Against The Universe”, we get into some really fascinating science, including a mind-controlling plant, a gigantic juggling robot, fungus-filled alien […]
In our WonderCon WandaVision panel, we covered a lot of the science behind the hit marvel show, including a brief history of television shows, the power of magic runes, and the ability to rewrite reality. That was MOST of what went on inside the Westview Anomoly, but we thought it deserved a little more. This […]
Scooby Doo and his crew are part of a company called Mystery, Inc., and they go around solving capers, crimes, and other oddities of high strangeness. Typically the villain is a real estate developer who is masquerading as some sort of supernatural being. Given the skeptical nature of Fred and Wilma, how are the Scooby […]
The Flintstones have been dubbed “The Modern Stone Age Family”, and it is absolutely true. Despite the fact that they appear to be living in a prehistoric civilization, they have all the conveniences of the modern world, albeit slightly altered to match their resources. Specialized animals make up the bulk of the work force, including […]
The Jetsons was a show about living in the space age, and all the atomic-powered technology you can fit into one futuristic apartment. George Jetson had everything: robot dogs fueled by nuclear energy, a sentient robot maid named Rosie, and a 3D food printer that was operated with punch cards. He even had a three […]
This is our first episode taking a close look at the physics of the cartoon world of Hanna-Barbera. Tom & Jerry have had a tumultuous relationship for as long as they have known each other and their uneasy truces quickly dissolve into all out combat. The physics of that combat is what is really intriguing. […]
In the latest Wonder Woman movie, a new and reality bending item is introduced: The Dreamstone. All someone has to do is touch it, and it will grant one wish. This is a powerful promise, one that even Wonder Woman falls victim to. In this episode, we take a look at the way reality is […]
Tenet is a movie about the idea that you can reverse the flow of time by reversing the entropy of an object. This is a fascinating way to look at time travel, although it happens in “Real Time” so you have to live the events in their entirety (forwards of backwards) instead of jumping over […]
The mystery of human attraction remain unsolved, but Love Potion No. 9 attempts to solve it through the the voice. This is a movie about a substance that when sprayed onto your vocal cords, it affects your voice in such a way that the opposite sex will find you undeniably fascinating, while the same sex […]
Could you imagine being stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over? Where you remember everything, and everyone around you remembers nothing? This is exactly what happens to Phil Connors in the classic movie Groundhog Day. While living without any consequences is fun at first, once Phil realizes he is stuck […]
When one thinks of world domination, two people should immediately spring to mind: Pinky & The Brain. These two genetically enhanced mice attempt to take over the world on a nightly basis, and have come devastatingly close on several occasions. In this episode, we examine some of those plans from the latest season, and offer […]
As they say in the cinematic classic “A Christmas Story”, every Christmas-celebrating child’s year revolves around December 25th. It is on this day that Santa Claus travel across the entire world on a flying reindeer-powered sleigh to deliver presents to all the good little boys and girls. The real question is “How does he do […]
Every Year on Dec. 25, Santa Claus takes to the skies to deliver presents to all the good little girls and boys in the world, but that one day takes 364 days of preparation to pull off. A naughty/nice list must be compiled, millions of toys must be assembled, and the entire delivery route must […]
When it comes to Christmas, Santa typically gets all the credit, but it turns out he has a crack team of elves that work behind the scenes. One such team is called Prep & Landing, and their job is to prepare each house for Santa’s arrival. Listen as we discuss the exploits of Wayne and […]
If there was a pill that could give you a random superpower for only five mins, but there was no guarantee you would survive, would you take it? That is the question asked by the movie Project Power. The superpowers granted by the pharmaceutical are random, and are typically some form of augmented biology, such […]
What would it be like for a human to be raised exclusively by a robot in an underground bunker? This question is explored in the movie I Am Mother. An automated bunker houses an AI powered robot named “Mother” and this robot is responsible for the last remnants of humanity, which are stored as embryos […]
We are all familiar with The Hulk and his ever increasing strength, but where does this power ultimately come from? Is it somehow tied to his psyche? Is there an altered biological reason for this transformation? In this episode we take a look into mind of Dr. Banner to see if it holds the key […]
In nature, some bird species will try to get another bird species to raise their young by secretly laying eggs in their nest. This is called brood parasitism. The movie Vivarium takes this concept and applies it to humans. Tom and Emma get trapped in a weird subdivision called Yonder, and are given a baby […]
Blade is a BA vampire hunter, who also happens to be half-vampire himself. His mom was bitten while pregnant, which bestowed upon Blade all of the vampire strengths, but none of the weaknesses…sort of. He still has to drink blood which while not a physical weakness per se, is definitely a social weakness. At his […]
Tremors is about a group of people in the tiny Nevada town of Perfection who encounter large, subterranean worm-like creatures called Graboids, which are attracted to sound. In this episode, we attempt to explain the biology of these creatures, including their incredible locomotive abilities, bulletproof head, and mouth tentacles. We also take a look at […]
Phantasm is one of the most unusual sci-fi forror movies of all time. The movie follows a boy, his big brother and an Ice Cream peddler named Reggie as they try to uncover the mysterious disappearances centered around their local cemetery. It turns out, the truth involves an inter-dimensional alien called The Tall Man, flying […]
Last Action Hero is one of Schwarzenegger’s most unusual movies because it plays with the physical conventions of three distinct worlds. First, we have the our world which operates under conventional Newtonian physics. Then we have the movie world where the main character Danny lives, which follows movie physics, and then we have the cartoonish […]
In the future, it is possible to have memories implanted in your head so you believe you went vacationing on another planet. This is what happens to Arnold, which opens up a whole adventure. This movie is really about two major scientific phenomena: Implanting memories over memories, and traveling to Mars. These seemingly unrelated occurrences […]
The T800, the unstoppable killing machine from the Terminator franchise is probably Arnold’s most iconic role. In the most recent sequel Dark Fate, a T800 is sent to kill John Conner and succeeds. After the mission is complete, he live a normal life with a family, completely fitting in to human society as a drapery […]
When Arnold and his elite paramilitary group are brought in on a rescue mission in Central America, they thought the most dangerous part would be the heavily armed guerillas. Little did they know that a technologically advanced alien had come to Earth to hunt. In this episode, we discuss all the cool gadgets The Predator […]
Los Angeles 2017: Prisoners have talent agents, people are manipulated with deepfakes every day, and you can fight for your freedom on a nationally televised game show hosted by Richard Dawson. This is the world of The Running Man, our first entry in Schwarzenegger September. This movie was very forward thinking, and not only because […]
The movie Snowpiercer (and the TV show of the same name) follows a gigantic train as it traverses the icy post-apocalyptic landscape, carrying with it the last vestiges of humanity. It is the quintessential traveling biosphere, containing everything the human race would need to survive (and many things they do not). Listen as we discuss […]
The 2011 movie Limitless explored the possibilities of dramatically expanding ones intelligence. Not only does the main character increase the processing power of his brain, but he suddenly has access to every memory he has ever stored. This is a remarkably powerful combination, especially when used in conjunction with his new found ability to mimic […]
In the television show Castlevania, Dracula is the keeper of advanced scientific knowledge, which sometimes appears as magic. His scientific acumen is so great that he trained his wife to be a doctor, his castle teleports, and he uses mirrors as both a communication device, and as a portable hole! We explain these devices, as […]
Welcome to FGGGbT Quick-E! On this show, we will tackle the stuff we don’t have time for in the regular podcast, be it science, pop culture, or both! This week’s topic comes from Twitter fan @Tweetacularmatt He asked what we thought of 3D food printing and how it would taste. We had some predictions. FGGGbT […]
If you have ever considered faking your own death via a pretend vat of acid, you really need to listen to this episode. It turns out, there is a LOT to consider. You have to be able to breathe underwater, construct rat bones on the fly, and be prepared to melt a ladle should anyone […]
Welcome to the first episode of our new show FGGGbT Quick-E! On this show, we will tackle the stuff we don’t have time for in the regular podcast, be it science, pop culture, or both! Our first topic comes from our new fan on Twitter @MasquearteMX! He asked what we thought of Vibranium VS Beskar. […]
Everybody loves a good time travel story, and Star Trek has MANY to choose from. Whether it’s Red Matter, Black Holes, Anti-matter, or performing a slingshot technique around a giant planet, if you make a major mistake, there are many ways to fix it. In this episode, The Brain Trust looks the original series and […]
When is comes to hologram technology, Voyager really perfected the application of this into their everyday lives. They were the first series to have a hologram crew member: The Doctor. As the Chief Medical Officer, he outranks the Captain on matters of health and well being, which is odd because he doesn’t physically exist. Not […]
Deep Space Nine was the first of the Star Trek series to be set on a space station, and not on a traveling space ship. The stories centered around a battle between The Federation, and The Dominion. This is important, because The Dominion was a race of people who used genetic engineering to both enhance […]
TNG revived in the Star Trek franchise and lead it in all new directions, including the introduction of one of the most iconic Star Trek enemies: The Borg. Listen as we discuss all the cybernetic advancements this series introduced, including the advantages of a cubed ship, removing biological parts in favor of superior technological ones, […]
The original series of Star Trek premiered in 1966, and even then it was ahead of its time. From machines that create food out of thin air, to medical devices that can diagnose you with the wave of a wand, Star Trek has accurately predicted several technological advancements. The Brain Trust takes a look at […]
Have you ever noticed a sudden shift in a friend’s demeanor, or felt like something about them was a little off? It is quite possible that they fell asleep close to an alien plant, and were replaced with a similar, albeit insidious facsimile. How could this happen? If Invasion of the Body Snatchers is any […]
Even in the rising tide of Flat Earth theories, one thing we do know for certain is that the Earth is solid and not hollow. However, if it was, what would it be like to adventure there? That is the exact question Jules Verne asked over 100 years ago. The result: One of his masterpieces […]
Logan’s Run is a classic 70’s Sci-Fi in every sense. It captures the hopes and fears of the future, the carefree 70’s culture, and the outlandish fashion that made this time period stand out. There are also a ton of technologies to discuss, including a real life chat roulette, a tube-based transportation system, and a […]
The Fly is a movie about one of the biggest “whoops” moments in science fiction history, and is a shining example of Murphy’s Law. Scientist Seth Brundle accidentally splices his DNA with that of a housefly while trying to teleport himself across the room. This causes him to slowly turn into a fly. The question […]
In the realm of science fiction, nothing is more multi-faceted than the Protomolecule from The Expanse. Is an invasive species, a construction team, and a warp gate all rolled into one. A true Swiss army knife of Sci-Fi. The Brain Trust got together to explain this complicated and wondrous particle, and managed to come up […]
In the world of The Expanse, one’s relationship with gravity is really separates people in the future. Are you a 1G person, and therefore from Earth, or are you a Belter who grew up in very low gravity? What is the biological effect of this force? How can we make artificial gravity? What is that […]
She-Ra and the Princesses of Power is a thoughtful and rich remake of the fun but vapid cartoon of the 80’s. This reboot has it all: power crystals, a planet sized weapon, flying unicorns, and prehensile hair. It’s a lot to tie together, but never fear: The Brain Trust has the answers. You will never […]
Westworld is marketed as a place where you can be anyone, do anything. It is a wild west themed amusement park that is populated by robots called “hosts”. You can help them, kill them, fornicate with them, or just watch them go about their day. Both the show and the park are so complex that […]
Westworld is marketed as a place where you can be anyone, do anything. It is a wild west themed amusement park that is populated by robots called “hosts”. You can help them, kill them, fornicate with them, or just watch them go about their day. Both the show and the park are so complex that […]
Westworld is marketed as a place where you can be anyone, do anything. It is a wild west themed amusement park that is populated by robots called “hosts”. You can help them, kill them, fornicate with them, or just watch them go about their day. Both the show and the park are so complex that […]
“Gotta Catch Em All” was the catchphrase of this incredibly popular series, but with 896 different species of Pokemon out there, it’s is getting more and more difficult to do that. Luckily The Brain Trust is here to help. We explain how Pokemon fit into that small Pokeball, the significance of Planck’s Constant in catching […]
In the world of Supernatural, the Winchester Bros. have faced off against some pretty scary monsters including vampires, ghosts, werewolves, demons, angels, and even pagan gods. Each one requires specific, hard to find items to defeat them, some of which you may not have on hand. That is where convenience of The Colt comes in. […]
With the ability to teleport instantly across universe, have singular knowledge of his entire timeline, and create life on other planets, Dr. Manhattan is the most powerful being in the comic book realm. In this episode, the Brain Trust tries to get a handle on his god-like abilities, and to do so, they discuss immortal […]
The Watchmen TV series is a continuation of the groundbreaking graphic novel of the same name. It takes place in an dark alternate timeline, where superheroes are required to hide their identity for fear of retribution. Luckily for us, it is also full of incredible gadgets and gizmos for the Brain Trust to examine, including […]
How would your brain react if you could basically cut out and store pieces of your memory? Would you make up the gaps between events? If so, what types of memories would you remove and why? We discuss this as well as several other technologies from the Rick & Morty episode Morty’s Mind Blowers, as […]
For our annual March Madness bracket, this year we are going to vote on Science Fiction’s top 16 movies of all time, which we are dubbing “Sci-Fi’s Sweet 16”. Listen as The Brain Trust breaks down their picks and favorite movies. Play along on Twitter! Download your bracket at @fgggbtpod, and be sure to vote […]
Think about the last time you were 50/50 on a decision. You obviously remember making one choice, but according to the Many Worlds theory, you also made the OTHER choice, and there is a separate universe where you are living a similar life except for that one small difference. This concept is perfectly exemplified in […]
First popularized in the novel The Invisible Man, the idea of becoming invisible has always been envisioned in pop culture. While that is an actual person disappearing, Harry Potter’s cloak is probably the best example of an item that can make someone seem to vanish into thin air. Listen as The Brain Trust discusses how […]
We are all going to get old right? Our bodies are going to inevitably break down and there is nothing you can do about it…or is there? What would you need if you just want to transfer your mind into a new body every 40-50 years? The answer: A clone! But not just any clone, […]
Taken from Daniel J. Glenn’s favorite movie franchise Back to the Future, the pizza hydrator epitomizes the ultimate ‘on the go’ meal. Mini pizzas are compact, lightweight, and cook in exactly 7 seconds. Some would argue that this is even more Space Age than astronaut ice cream. The Brain Trust attempts to perfect this process, […]
Forget being born with superpowers, what if a simple injection could endow you with all sorts of superhuman abilities, would you take it? Would you care about the side effects? We explore this philosophical conundrum while explaining the spectrum of superhero serums, including Captain America, Bane, and of course The Boys & Compound V. Link […]
The Mandalorian is an amazing space western that brings back several Star Wars favorites: Jawas, Carbonite Freezing, Tatooine, and even a baby Yoda! The show even manages to sneak in some new gadgets, like a disintegration gun, blaster-proof metal, and biological tracking. Don’t worry, The Brain Trust is here to explain it all! Link to […]
Arguably the scariest alien race ever created in cinematic history, the Xenomorph, has the ability to inject its DNA into almost any host. This allows the species to create a deadly version of itself from any nearby life form. The truly terrifying reality is that nature has created most of the Xenomorph’s abilities already, including […]
In the world of Battlestar Galactica, Cylons represent the ultimate convergence of Artificial Intelligence and Robots. They are so human-like that they are indistinguishable from people. If that wasn’t terrifying enough, they are also devastatingly attractive. Even though there are only 13 humanoid models, no matter what you are into, there is a Cylon for […]
As any comic fan will tell you, the easiest way to get superpowers is to be born with them. This is true for most of the X-Men. But what if you weren’t born with powers, but still want to save the world? You may be in luck. In this week’s episode, The Brain Trust breaks […]
Every superhero needs a way to be contacted. Batman had the Bat signal, Superman has a high frequency watch, and Capt. Marvel can be paged across the universe! How would something like this work? The Brain Trust goes deep into the quantum world on this one. They piece together quantum foam, atomic clocks, quantum entanglement, […]
We all have said or done something that so stupid, we wish we could wipe from the minds of everyone in attendance. Whether it was an awkward first date, an clumsy fall in front of your boss, or your older sister yanking your pants down in front of your karate class, the Neuralyzer from MIB […]
What if world just like ours existed slightly out of phase with this one? How great would it be if we could travel between the worlds, and even meet our alternative selves? That is exactly what The Brain Trust tackles this week as they discuss the Multiverse Theory. They get into all sorts of stuff, […]
Symbiosis, organisms living with each other, is the foundation of nature. However, some of those relationships are amazing, while others are toxic. Some can be both! That pretty much describes the dichotomy that is the Venom symbiote. What would it be like to live with two consciousnesses in your head? Who is in control, when […]
One of the most devastating moments in the Star Wars series is when Han Solo is frozen in carbonite. He is unfrozen pretty easily in Return of the Jedi, but how would that work with our current technology? We freeze human cells all the time, but is it possible to safely freeze and unfreeze an […]
Nothing is more limitless than the potential of a person’s dreams. Nothing is more uncertain either. Since man first fell asleep he has been trying to tame this wild frontier. We have perfected techniques to control your own dreams in the form of lucid dreaming, but how can we enter the dreams of others? That […]
Luke Cage’s Skin To be bulletproof, that would be a man without fear. “The Hero of Harlem” Luke Cage is more than bulletproof, his skin is impervious to all forms of traditional weapons. Bullets, knives, bottles, and even a rocket seem to have no effect. So how could one achieve this effect without going through […]
Harry Potter’s Broomstick Who doesn’t want to live in a world where Hogwarts exists? The world of Harry Potter is full of amazing devices, with flying broomsticks being one of the most incredible. Listen as The Brain Trust discusses the pros and cons of Quidditch, Wile E. Coyote’s trouble with rockets, anti-gravity cell towers, giant […]
Doc Ock’s Arms Otto Octavius AKA Dr. Octopus, is one of the most fearsome member of Spider-Man’s Rogues Gallery. He is a Genius with powerful cybernetic arms, that are capable of incredible feats of strength. We get into all of the incredible advancements of modern day prosthetics, but we also discuss the deadly Irukandji jellyfish, […]
Black Panther’s Sneakers T’Challa’s ability to walk around silently is kind of taken for granted in Black Panther. In reality creating a 100% silent shoe is incredibly difficult, although not impossible. Listen as The Brain Trust explains the silent spectrum from noise cancelling headphones, to sound emitting polymers. We even get into silent walking technique, […]
Death Star Technology The greatest shadow cast over the Star Wars Universe is that of the Death Star. Whether being constructed in the sky, used as a battering ram, or maximized in the fully evolved Star Killer Base, Death Star Technology is the ultimate in absolute destruction. Listen as we learn the dangers of harnessing […]
Battle Mechs Whether it’s Battletech, Aliens, Star Wars, or Pacific Rim, sci-fi is obsessed with mechanized suits of armor. One would think that with the advancements in AI, robots and drones, the push would be for automated robots to fight our battles for us. Surprisingly, this is not the case. It turns out Russia, Japan, […]
THEY LIVE’s Hoffman Lenses In John Carpenter’s classic THEY LIVE, The main character puts on a pair of sunglasses and is shown a whole hidden world of subtle alien invasion and mental manipulation. Solving this problem requires an encoder, and a decoder, and The Brain Trust and I break down all the possible scenarios from […]
Portable Holes Portable Holes have been an Acme brand staple for years. Who wouldn’t want the ability to walk through a wall, or instantly travel sort distances? Well I get the Brain Trust back together to see just how close we can get to making these a reality. We explore the history with a deep […]
Iron Man’s Armor Arguably one of the coolest technical marvels in the fictional universe (no pun intended), Tony Stark’s suit is actually a hybrid of several advanced systems: Propulsion, communication, weapons, and protection. While making the whole may be extremely difficult, it turns out that we have created several of the individual pieces. We talk […]
Beginning with the original The Fly, and popularized through Star Trek, Matter Transporters have been a staple of Sci-Fi since the beginning. Given the current state of travel, who wouldn’t want to be just “beamed” someplace and be done with it? Well Dennin, Bennin and I tackle this issue head on, covering the complexity of […]
Who doesn’t want a small, portable nuclear generator? Well Back to the Future may have planted the seed, that is the end of our national energy problem. We discuss fusion VS fission, Brittany explains how bacteria can create an infinite amount of energy, Ben tells us how many lightening strikes are in a half a […]
Ever since Back to the Future II came out, everyone has wanted a hoverboard. The idea of a floating skateboard inspired a generation of engineers, who have come out with some amazing, and completely viable options. You will actually be amazed at just how close we are to these things! Dennin, Bennin and I sit […]
Everyone knows Spider-Man. He has been a comic book hero for 55 years, and has several movies based on his exploits. One of the more intriguing aspects to his persona are his web-shooters. All of his abilities were bestowed upon him by happenstance (being bitten by a radioactive spider), but he designed and manufactured his […]
The T1000 is the ultimate in robotic evolution: Highly customizable in every way. The liquid metal construction allows this model mimic the outward appearance of anyone, and become the size of anything roughly the same size as a human body. The real advancement comes in the T1000’s ability to be liquid when shot by bullets, […]
In the late 70’s, fictional character William “Willy” Wonka, an eccentric confectioner with a heart (and rare ticket) of gold, created a candy that was not only affordable to everyone, but it would last forever. He claimed that “You can suck it, and suck it, and suck it, and it won’t get any smaller”. It […]
The 1984 film Ghostbusters was quintessential for instilling in us the notion that ghosts are real, and can be captured using unlicensed nuclear accelerators strapped to one’s back. While incredibly useful and cutting edge for their time, they were also dangerous, holding the power to destroy life as we know it (cross the streams = […]
In our first episode, just in time for Halloween, Physicist Dr. Michael Dennin, Rocket Scientist Ben Siepser, Microbiologist Dr. Brittany Needham, and The Analytical Mastermind Daniel J. Glenn discuss how to create your very own reanimated corpse. Okay, so reanimating dead tissue is out of our grasp right now, but there are several alternatives for […]