The Wiki Room: Recent Episodes
Kevin Baghdassarian, Ryan Hicks, and Leo Horta (coming soon)
Hi and welcome to The Wiki Room! Join us on our exhilarating journey through random Wikipedia articles that we read ourselves then describe to you in our own words, with some fun along the way.
On Episode 73, we dive into conspiracy. The NASA moon landings were one of the biggest milestones in US history, yet their reality has been in question since the day it happened. Although there are countless explanations to support its validity, it is hard for us to believe without actually witnessing it in person.
On Episode 72, we talk about a fatal plane crash that took place in 1972. Usually when there is news of a plane crash, you assume that there are very few - if any - survivors. With the Andes Flight Disaster, there were a surprising amount. 16 of them made it through 72 days until they were rescued, which is considered a miracle. However, with this miracle, it came with a moral cost.
On Episode 71, we talk about the soda known by everyone. Coca Cola is the beverage where all carbonated soft drinks started from. The company itself has been able to maintain their secret formula to present day. Although there are several brands that make cola in present day, people still choose Coke as their obvious favorite.
On Episode 70, we talk about leisurely activities endlessly. Believe it or not, we all partake in some kind of hobby. To some, it is seen as an admirable step forward to enriching your life. To others, it is seen as a by-product of boredom and abundant free time. Regardless of what is true, as long as you're having fun, keep doing what you do.
On Episode 69, we learn how to work on our tan line. Sunburn is something we all experience to varying degrees. In the summer, we attempt to find a safe balance between getting a nice tan without burning our skin. With some basic knowledge in mind, we can still have our fun in the sun and not regret it the next day.
On Episode 68, we talk about the degenerate who can regenerate. Deadpool is one of the best known anti-heroes in modern time storytelling. From the movies, we know him as a wise-cracking, fictional rendition of Ryan Reynolds. However, when it comes to the comics, he is not just an invincible jerk, he is whoever you want him to be.
On Episode 67, we give a little Four Loko lesson. Four Loko is an alcoholic beverage built on consequences we know, but choose to ignore. It was first made with the intention of providing energy and inebriation in one simultaneous sip. At first glance, it seems like an ingenious concoction to partygoers and young adults, but maturity makes us question in its deep intentions.
On Episode 66, we get into the mind of a Ryan Hicks. Regardless of how we think we are or how other people see us, we all have a personality. Our personality is not set at birth or at any age in our development. It is constantly changing based on our surroundings and experiences. So today, the Wiki Crew takes a look within to better understand themselves, and the people around them.
On Episode 65, we continue our journey into the world of coffee. We've seen coffee as an art form, a science, and through many different preparation methods. And now we focus on coffee as a form of convenience. Instant coffee isn't known to be the most tasteful way to prepare your coffee, but when you need a quick cup, it is there if you need it. Although it is seen as a decision of convenience over quality, the methods to prepare it are far from simple.
On Episode 64, we talk about the class of supplements that Ryan adores. Pre-workout is a general term used to describe a range of supplements that are used by anyone who wants to optimize their athletic performance and fitness results. In present day, almost every gym-goer has used it at least once to help them go the extra mile in their workout. So if you want to hear more, listen to your favorite stim-junkies educate themselves on the topic of pre-workout.
On Episode 63, we talk about the preparation of coffee. Almost everyone in this world has drank some sort of rendition of coffee. Some people like it black, others with heaps of sugar and creamer. Even though connoisseurs will disagree, the right way to drink coffee is the way you like it. So join us on our journey to find out what's the perfect cup of coffee (for you).
On Episode 62, we talk about our favorite thing to dip into. Hummus is a spread that is heavily infused into middle eastern culture and its origins. Because of its amazing flavor and versatility, it has gained extreme popularity as a household staple and a product displayed in every neighborhood market.
On Episode 61, we talk about how to make cooking more fun. Grilling is a method of cooking that has been adopted by almost every culture. In places like the United States, it is even the focal point of social events like barbecues and cookouts. Although not all of us have a grill, we all know someone that does. For me, that is my lovely co-host Ryan Hicks.
On Episode 60, we talk about a drink that gets us tipsy. Vodka is known to be one of the purest creations of alcoholic beverages. It is mainly composed of ethanol and water due to its distillation and filtration processing. As a result of its neutral flavor albeit burning sensation, it can be drunk neat or added to your favorite mixed drink.
On Episode 59, we talk about the superstore with a long line. Costco isn't like every other supermarket. It offers products in high quantities with extremely low prices, with a yearly membership fee. However, people don't just go for the great prices, they go for the experience and the happiness it gives them. So on this episode, not only do we talk about Costco, but we talk about how it makes us feel.
On Episode 58, we talk about cheese with an unknown expiration date. Cheese ripening, also known as aging, is process that has been developed throughout history. Aging cheese not only preserves it, but also gives it a unique taste and flavor. It is a process with so much biology and chemistry involved before the science was even understood.
On Episode 57, we dig into our favorite cookies and cream obsession. Oreo cookies are seen as one of a kind, but they started off as an imitation of another cookie sandwich. For decades, they strictly stuck with their original formulation, but in recent years, they have branched out into various flavors and concoctions. Although nothing beats the original Oreo, their drive for constant product creativity has become enjoyable to many.
On Episode 56, we throw a little beer into the mix. Pabst Blue Ribbon is a beer that has made it through the ebbs and flows of American history. It has evolved from being a beer drank by civil war veterans into one that is beloved by hipsters. If only they knew what we know now.
On Episode 55, we talk about one of the main struggles when you're trying to survive. Frostbite is a realistic possibility for anyone if you don't prepare for extremely cold conditions. As someone who has lived in LA their whole lives, it is not something I normally consider. However, when I do decide to venture out into the cold wilderness, this wiki article will be my North Star.
On Episode 54, we talk about countries and their favorite bevs to pour. National drinks can tell you about a lot about a country's culture and their use of resources. Russia has vodka, France has wine, and for some reason, Belgium has monks who brew exquisite beer. Usually, we love to talk about our favorite things, but now we want to find out theirs.
On Episode 53, we talk about Arnold's journey to the land of the free. His story of an Austrian-born kid coming to America to become one of the most famous bodybuilders and movie stars is unparalleled.
On Episode 52, we talk about what keeps your food as good as new. Food preservation techniques have been around since ancient history. People have always wondered how to keep their food shelf-stable not just as a hobby, but for a means of survival. As time has gone on and technology has evolved, these old techniques have been refined into new ones.
On Episode 51, Ryan and I try to make bad breath more fun. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a condition that has affected all of us at one point. Sometimes it can be an acute condition that is easily remedied, and other times it points to an underlying condition. Regardless, we try to learn more on this topic so that we can expand our knowledge further, and talk closer.
On Episode 50, we talk about the dystopian novel that makes the wiki crew giddy. The Hunger Games is one of many book trilogies that has been turned into a feature film, but this is one that we hold close to our hearts. For the young adult. this trilogy had everything you needed; violence, romance, and a little competition.
On Episode 49, we talk about the liquor that goes well with lime. Tequila is a liquor like no other. It is a distilled beverage that is heavily preserved by culture and can only be crafted in Mexico. Some theorize that it makes them act an eccentric way when consumed in moderate quantities, and who are we to judge? Until the next morning. So join Ryan and I while we talk about Tequila, and appreciate it for more than just how it makes us feel.
On Episode 48, we talk about our favorite holiday before it's too late. Christmas dinner is an event that comes around literally every year. It is a time to gather with family to make up for any time lost. It is an opportunity to be with the ones you love and to share great food. You laugh, you recollect old memories, and maybe play a game or two. It doesn't have to be perfect, but it does have to be jolly. Join Ryan and I for another episode that will get you in the holiday spirit!
On Episode 47, we talk about adhesives with Ryan and Kevin. We know that adhesives might not be the most interesting topic to discuss, but Ryan knows how much I love the science behind the scenes, so he indulged my curiosity. So, we know superglue is sticky , but why is it SUPER sticky? And why does it go bad so quickly?!? These are questions you might not ponder in daily life, but we definitely have the answers for you when you're ready.
On Episode 46, we talk about a coping mechanism we use as a quick fix. Projection is a natural behavior that we use as a defense mechanism to boost self-esteem, but also as a tool to relate to others. It has been theorized that we use it as a way to empathize with other people by utilizing our own personal experiences. It is a term mostly used in a negative connotation, and we all try to avoid doing onto others. So with this article, Ryan and I attempt to project less and self-reflect more.
On Episode 45, we talk about the one day turkeys thrive, kinda. Thanksgiving dinner is a tradition that is founded on historical origins, but has evolved more into a day that families in the United States gather to spend quality time with relatives, and most of all, eat good food. There is so much that is brought to the table including a variety of meats, side dishes, drinks, and desserts. So let us give thanks to the ones we love and get into the holiday spirit.
On Episode 44, we find some theories to explore. Conspiracy theories are a human phenomenon that mixes some reason with a little imagination. It is natural for us to question significant historical events that happen around us, and wonder if there is more to it. Maybe a president's assassination was masterminded by a secret group of intelligent elitists, or the earth is just a fun video game for highly sophisticated aliens from another planet. We might not be able to provide answers to these questions, but we can have a little fun with it.
On Episode 43, we talk about an artist with limitless popularity. Frank Ocean has quite possibly been one of the most influential artists of the 2000's. His unique sound and lyrics seem to resonate so specifically with us, making us feel seen and acknowledged. Through his music, he paints a story of his own life experience and also finds a way to make us reflect on our own.
On Episode 42, we learn about wine and its process too. The production of wine started long, long ago before the process was even understood. It was something that happened by chance. Some fruit was probably left out for too long, someone took a taste and liked how they felt. That's probably not exactly how it happened but it was definitely a happy accident. Then as humanity and science developed, we began to understand more about how the process worked.
On Episode 41, we discuss a psychological concept that is known to some. Gaslighting is a term used quite commonly nowadays to describe the "perception of deception." Its origins are rooted in a more psychiatric context, but it has evolved into a broader term that is used to describe arguments in personal relationships. So, the Wiki Crew decides to sift through the article to see if we can use our newfound knowledge to protect us from the deception of our perception.
On Episode 40, we decide to get a little corny. Breakups are an emotional event that we've all experienced one way or another. Whether it be a romantic breakup or one between friends. It's an experience full of emotion and hardship. It is something that we all try to avoid, but is sometimes inevitable. And with that recognized inevitability, Ryan and I try to come to terms with our own reality.
On Episode 39, we talk about the most popular energy drink of all time. Red Bull was one of the global pioneers of the energy drink trend. However, it was actually inspired by another energy drink that originated in Thailand. Red Bull saw the potential mass appeal of a drink that can cure sleepiness and jumpstart productivity. So, with a little bit of creative marketing and a dash of capitalism, the elixir that gives you wings was born.
On Episode 38, Excedrin is the topic up for debate. Excedrin has been known for decades as the go-to pill to stop headaches and migraines. We know it as a brand, but sometimes don't think twice about its active components. It is an elixir of 3 active ingredients that come together to dissolve any pain or ache. We choose to use to it with no hesitation, but as usual, the Wiki Crew wants to know more.
On Episode 37, we get into our favorite topical obsession. Food is something we all enjoy, but we all have different ways of enjoying it. Based on the region we live in, we have different ingredients at our culinary disposal. Our ancestors worked with what resources they had and developed the national dishes we've learned to love in present day.
On Episode 36, we talk about the ultimate body odor fix. Deodorant is a product that most of us use, whether it be out of choice or necessity. We use it to smell good, and to also prevent us from smelling bad. Additionally, there is numerous deodorizing products to choose from. You can go with just deodorant if you want to be simple, or you can sprinkle in some anti-perspirant if you like to block up that sweat. Like with any other consumer product, the choice is absolutely yours.
On Episode 35, we do a skin care deep-dive. Acne is a skin condition that has affected all of us at one point in our lives and still affects us into adulthood. It has propelled us into various skin care solutions ranging from pore-cleansing strips to even prescription pills. And with all of that, it almost seems like we cannot avoid its inevitable occurrence when we look in the mirror on a random morning. The Wiki Crew might not have the one-stop solution for acne, but we can help provide some background on the topic.
On Episode 34, we talk about a drug that party people adore. MDMA is a potent drug that gives you enhanced feelings ranging from euphoria to paranoia. It is popular in many scenes including raves, and even psychotherapy. We all know it as this recreational drug that you get from a friend of a friend, but that was never the purpose when it was first synthesized. It was made accidentally, like most drugs synthesized in a lab. And with that, we decide to follow the rollercoaster of events that has made MDMA what it is today.
On Episode 33, we talk about a drink that gets us thirsty. Gatorade is a sports drink that is known to quench your thirst and optimize your athletic performance. It contains necessary electrolytes along with a liberal serving of sugar. From its origins, it has been marketed as a sports performance drink that replenishes the body during vigorous sports activities. However, with its unique branding it has become more than just a drink, it has transformed into a way of life.
On Episode 33, we talk about some tales; some funny, some scary. Urban legends have been told all across the world. They make life interesting by blending some possibility with a dash of disbelief. They spark the imagination with a flurry of emotions that fill us with excitement and dread. So if you're into creepypastas and all things alike, we have a saucy treat for you.
On Episode 32, we talk about a snack with some crunch, and a little chew. Pop-Tarts are a convenient snack that everyone has tried at least once, especially during childhood. Some of us probably even ate it as a quick alternative to breakfast, then came to find out that it is not the most nutritional thing to start the day. Gasp! However, regardless of its nutritional content, it is a fun treat that can satisfy any sweet tooth when the time comes.
If one episode on Taco Bell wasn't enough, here is another one featuring me (Kev) along with my brother Kirk and cousin Aram. This first Wiki Room collab continues the Taco Bell conversation with some childhood memories, throwbacks, and good eats.
On Episode 31, we learn how bees get it done. Honey is a sugary syrup that can easily be seen as just another sweetener on the market shelf. However, it is so much more than that! It is delectable by-product of mother nature. Without bees just doing their thing, their ultimate duty in life, there would be no honey! So today, we celebrate honey, and most of all, we celebrate the bees.
On episode 30, we talk about the drink that made the Vikings a little flirty. Mead (aka honey wine) is a fermented alcoholic drink that has been around for thousands of years, but is rarely drank popularly in present time. When you go to a party or a bar, it is common for someone to offer you an ice cold beer or seltzer, but never a mead. So today, we decided to give some appreciation to the drink that begins with a bee's labor of love.
On Episode 29, the deep blue sea commits a hate crime. On June 18, 2023, the Titan submarine imploded during its descent to see the Titanic wreckage. It is a journey quite a few adventurers have taken, but it doesn't mean that their safety is guaranteed. It is a tragic event that has been clouded with rampant media coverage and internet memes, which is a given these days. With that in mind, the Wiki collective decides to use our favorite resource of knowledge to educate us more on this cautionary tale.
On episode 28, we let the snack gods decide our fate. When Pringles were first conceived, they were incomparable to any other chip to the point where they couldn't even legally be termed a chip! Chips back then were not like the flavor explosions we have today, and that is partly due to this delectable innovation. So what happens when you combine advanced geometry and potatoes? Well, the proof might be in the Pringle.
On episode 27, we revisit a topic with our wiki hosts Ryan, Leo, and Kevin. We might as well call the podcast The Whiskey Room at this point because we just can't move on. This time, we dive back in by learning fun facts about the terminology, styles, and even some science that'll impress (or bore) your friends.
On episode 26, we talk about our favorite fast food fix. Taco Bell is a fast food chain that was inspired by tradition, but is fueled by innovation. They have reconstructed simple ingredients like cheese, sour cream, and tortillas into various combinations for us to experience. Although there have been doubts regarding their authenticity and ingredient quality, Taco Bell always has something for everyone on the menu.
On episode 25, we talk about a drink that makes us feel alive. Whiskey is a beverage that is known by many, but holds different meanings for everyone. For some, it is just a concoction that tastes like a piece of wood made love to paint thinner. But for others, it is a flavorful, complex elixir infused with tradition and history. Thankfully, the Wiki Crew has been honored with another article to help us extract all the necessary knowledge on all things whiskey.
On episode 24, we discuss cars with falcon-wing doors. Tesla is a car company that attempts to transcend into the future while leaving no trace. But that wouldn't be juicy enough without a little mayhem from their eccentric leader. Sometimes technological advancement can get messy, but the results are nevertheless shocking.
On episode 23, we talk about a store where the snacks are plenty. 7-Eleven is a store that is the epitome of abundance and convenience. It is stationed on every corner wherever you go, even on the other of the world. And to our surprise, it has a resilient history from humble beginnings.
On Episode 22, Pickleball is the topic we paddle into. Ahhhh, get it? If not, join us while we talk about a sport that is taking the world by storm. It has been around for longer than people think, but is just now becoming popular. Why is that? Who knows, but maybe we can figure out more if we dink about it together.
On Episode 21, the Wiki Crew bonds over some sweet buns. The donut is a baked good that we have all enjoyed more than once. However, we all enjoy it in different ways. There are cake donuts, there are yeast-raised donuts, and even ones filled with globs of jelly and cream. It is clear that we all have a preference, and behind every preference there is a process.
On episode 20 the hot sauce is plenty! We take the fearless journey through the wide array of hot sauces and decide to try some along the way. We enjoy, we suffer, and we persevere. Join us if you dare.
Ketchup is a condiment that is so simple, yet extremely complex. It's main ingredient is the tomato, yet it tastes nothing like it. Ketchup is salty, it's sour, it's sweet, and we can't get enough of it. For this reason, The Wiki Crew decides to take a step back to really dip into what makes this sauce so delicious.
Coffee is a drink that cuts across all cultures throughout history. We all developed different ways to consume this hot (or cold) bean drink. Our ancestors discovered these beans in their backyards one day and decided "hey we can do something with this." And from that point, we never looked back. Join us while we talk about different brewing methods, drink varieties, and our personal experiences with all things coffee.
Kombucha is a fermented drink that isn't for everyone. It is sour, funky, and packed with a wide array of flavors. Because it is fermented with a diverse culture of bacteria and yeast, people drink it for its purported health benefits, and not only for enjoyment. On this episode, we learn how kombucha is made and the behind the scenes of its funky process.
After a short break, we decide to bounce back into our wiki shenanigans with Jell-O! Jell-O is many things, but also completely unique. Is it a dessert? Can it be a salad? Who knows for sure! But on this episode, we are pudding it on the main stage.
A topic so nice we're doing it twice. Once again we venture into the endless abyss of common misconceptions because we just can't help ourselves. This time, we meander through several categories including history, astronomy, and biology. Join us on our adventurous quest for truth and clarity!
It's hard to really know how the human digestive system works without an actual look inside, especially a couple centuries ago. But what if someone was given that exact opportunity to take a look inside the stomach and experiment with it. Even if it might seem unethical or radical. Well, this is exactly what happened to American Army physician William Beaumont; and his subject Alexis St Martin, a young man with a permanently open gunshot wound to his stomach.
Prepare yourselves because this episode is going to be gross! The Wiki Room team has decided yet again to dive into another list of things. Is it laziness? Is it our platonic commitment to lists? Or do we just have an undying passion for blockbuster movies? Well, there's only one way to find out.
Did you ever have a fun fact that you would share with all your friends, but then it ended up being false? Well on this episode, we help clarify a wide range of common misconceptions so that we all can get it right the next time.
How does one define sexiness? Is it someone's confidence? Their eyes? Charisma? Well on this episode, we go over the whole list of People Magazine's sexiest men alive while giving our unsolicited, superficial opinions on their looks and personalities, along with some expected tangents.
Ever felt like you might be a littleee narcissistic? Well congrats! You just might be! On this episode, we look into all things narcissism including its origins, the different types, and its key characteristics. Join us while we ponder on our own narcissism as we discover if there is in fact a healthy middle ground.
On this episode, we talk about what most people are experiencing on New Year's Day, a hangover. It is the thorn to our side, the chicken to our little, and the ultimate consequence to our reckless actions. Although we might deserve this self-induced struggle, it doesn't hurt to understand the reasons why we feel so bad the morning after and how to soften our inevitable suffering.
On this episode, we talk about one of the most polarizing holiday drinks. You either hate it or you love it! Join us on our journey through the rich history of eggnog and the ingredients that make it so delicious and divisive.
Aphrodisiacs! A stimulating topic full of history and mystery. Humans have spent thousands of years trying to find the perfect elixir to increase sexual pleasure and desire. Over the years, we have gone from extracting these substances from natural sources to synthesizing them in advanced laboratories.
On this episode, we attempt to digest the rich topic of lactose intolerance. So get your lactase pills ready and pour a tall glass of milk while we take you through the science.
On this week's episode, we decided to look into the wikipedia article of Trader Joe's! Join us while we talk about it’s peculiar origins, growing popularity, and their unique products we’ve come to know and love.
Let's get hyped for our next topic energy drinks! It's something we all decide to consume on a tedious workday or on a late night, but maybe aren't aware of their true consequences. Let us be your fearless guides through its peculiar history, ingredients, and what really packs it with so much energy.
On this episode, we look into the thick and gooey topic of cheese! On our reckless journey, we stumble upon things like the complex etymology, the curdling process, and the scientific reasons that bless us with that beautiful cheesy stank.
On this episode, we decide to dive right back into the fascinating topic of beer, but with the addition of our new co-host Leo Horta! He is a good friend and also one of my coworkers at the brewery. Together, we will discuss beer styles, pairings, and some silly stories along the way.
So we have decided to choose the vast universe of beer for our first podcast topic. Shocker! Come and join me (Kevin Baghdassarian) and Ryan Hicks while we discuss the multiple facets of beer including its ingredients, history, and the science behind what makes our favorite adult bread soda possible.