Mini: Hard Conversations

Rock, Paper, Scissors, Shoot! This 5-second two-player game to settle disputes began in ancient China and quickly spread throughout the world. Some research has also attempted to use game theory to understand decisions in this game and were surprised by the results, but we weren't! You'll see why. Join our supporters' club: www.patreon.com/wwdwwpodcastLinks and References: https://www.annarahmanan.com/the-history-of-rock-paper-scissors-gamehttps://www.playworks.org/game-library/ro-sham-bo-or-rock-paper-scissors/https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00107514.2015.1026556Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast

Not to be confused with Neutron Imaging, which is also sometimes called N Rays, N-Rays were a scientific discovery at the turn of the 1900s that promised a bright future for humanity... except that that didn't really exist. In the flurry of ground-breaking discoveries around radiation, N-Rays emerged as the elusive new-kid-on-the-block that could only be seen out of the corner of your eye in an extremely dark room. Red flag. But, science quickly correct course as science does and this phenomeon died out. It stands as a cautionary tale about human bias and a triumphant demonstration of the self-correcting nature of science. RecommendationsAbraham: The ‘Burbs (season 1; https://www.peacocktv.com/stream-tv/the-burbs)Shane: Converge - Love Is Not Enough  (https://www.epitaph.com/news/article/converge-release-long-awaited-new-lp-love-is-not-enough)Holidays (2/18/2026):Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane DayCrab-Stuffed Flounder DayDrink Wine DayEat Ice Cream for Breakfast DayNational Battery DayNational Hate Florida DayPluto DayThumb Appreciation DayAlzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Staff Education WeekBuild a Better Trade Show Image WeekLove Teaching WeekNational Condom WeekNational Date Week (Fruit)National Green WeekNational Pancake WeekRamadanLinks and References: https://www.aps.org/archives/publications/apsnews/200708/history.cfmhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N-rayhttps://www.aps.org/apsnews/2007/08/robert-wood-debunks-nrays https://www.phoenixneutronimaging.com/insights-and-updates/n-rays-vs-n-rays-will-the-real-n-ray-please-stand-uphttps://www.wired.com/2014/09/fantastically-wrong-n-rays/ https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/news/what-is-radiation#:~:text=Radiation%20is%20energy%20that%20can%20be%20described,and%20science**%20Nuclear%20techniques%20and%20materials%20production Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast

Shining red lights on our bodies is all the rage in the "wellness" space. Red lights are purported to do a hole host of incredible things, which raised our skeptical hackles. We discuss what red lights are, what they do, and where we think this trend is going. Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/red-flags-for-red-light-therapy/https://med.stanford.edu/news/insights/2025/02/red-light-therapy-skin-hair-medical-clinics.htmlhttps://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13643-025-02902-3Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast

In a departure from our standard episode format, Abraham will profile three people and see if Shane can guess who they are. You can play along! Send us in your guesses by emailing us or post them to us on social media. RecommendationsAbraham: The Naked Gun (2025) https://www.paramountplus.com/movies/video/61gdvpY7mURqcXbL67yYKiiQzEuRQZwW/ Shane: Pet Semetary by Stephen King (https://stephenking.com/works/novel/pet-sematary.html)Holidays (2/11/2026):Be Electrific DayDaytona Pole DayDon’t Cry Over Spilled Milk DayGet Out Your Guitar DayGrandmother Achievement DayInternational Day of Women & Girls in ScienceMake a Friend’s DayNational Inventor’s DayNational Make a Friend DayNational Shut-In Visitation DayPeppermint Patty DayPromise DayWhite T-Shirt DayWorld Day of the SickCelebration of Love WeekLinks and References: https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/the-complex-legacy-of-saddam-hussein https://youtu.be/aD7-VRqR_d0?si=5umLrI1o5b0-kcTNhttps://www.reuters.com/article/world/saddam-hussein-rise-and-fall-of-a-strongman-idUSL30809867/ https://www.aei.org/articles/kim-jong-il-road-to-ruin/https://www.belfercenter.org/publication/keeping-kim-how-north-koreas-regime-stays-powerhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Dj8G72pUgc https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/how-did-adolf-hitler-happenhttps://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/the-nazi-rise-to-powerhttps://www.annefrank.org/en/anne-frank/go-in-depth/germany-1933-democracy-dictatorship/https://www.history.com/articles/adolf-hitler Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast

Do cat's only meow at humans? What does their meowing mean? We once again spend a mini reviewing the interesting feline behavior of meowing. Yes, they mostly only meow at humans. No, humans aren't great an interpreting their meows. But, we'll explain in more detail in the episode. Are you good at understanding your cat?Get ad free episodes and support the show: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast.comLinks and References: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/10/12/2390https://www.hartz.com/truth-or-myth-cats-only-meow-to-humans/https://mrfrs.org/ask-a-vet-with-dr-sam-cats-only-meow-at-humans/https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/common-cat-behavior-issues/meowing-and-yowlinghttps://bioacoustics.stackexchange.com/questions/997/is-it-true-that-cats-dont-really-meow-at-each-other-but-rather-at-humans-as-a Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast

Once again, we find ourselves in distressing and troubled times. Those of us inspired to action have taken to the streets in peaceful demonstrations and protests around the country. When we do this, we undertake a certain amount of risk. So, we have put together a list of strategies to keep in mind to protest safely in a episode originally published in 2020. In this nostalgia release, we add new information about how to protect yourself legally with ICE detaining and murdering American civilians and attacking people who aren't white. We may have forgotten to mention a strategy to take a photocopy of your ID with you (not your real ID), so consider that an additional tidbit. Good luck and god speed!RecommendationsAbraham: Reese’s Plant-Based Peanut Butter Cups (www.hersheyland.com/products/reeses-plant-based-oat-chocolate-confection-and-peanut-butter-cups-1-4-oz.html) Shane: Go to live sporting eventsBonus Recommendation: Consider donating money to immigration defense organizations that support legal fees, legislative action, and direct support for families. https://wearecasa.org/policy-agenda/immigration/abolishice/https://www.immigrantdefenseproject.org/donate/Second Bonus Recommendation: Abolish ICEHolidays (2/4/2026):Global School Play DayHomemade Soup DayI Heart Horror DayInternational Day of Human FraternityLiberace DayNational Create a Vacuum DayNational Girls and Women in Sports DayNational Hemp DayNational Signing DayNational Stuffed Mushroom DayNational Thank a Mailman DayNational Wicker DayQuacker DaySweater DayTorture Abolition DayAfrican Heritage & Health WeekBurn Awareness WeekLinks and References: https://immigrantjustice.org/for-immigrants/know-your-rights/ice-encounter/https://www.nilc.org/resources/immigrant-participation-in-protests-rights/https://www.hks.harvard.edu/centers/carr/publications/35-rule-how-small-minority-can-change-worldhttps://www.americanprogress.org/article/how-peaceful-protest-by-just-3-5-percent-of-americans-could-force-major-policy-changes-from-the-trump-administration/https://www.yesmagazine.org/social-justice/2021/06/15/world-changing-protests-you-should-know-aboutBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast

What does it mean to say something is sweeter than something else? What does 200 times sweeter even taste like? We explain the method scientists use to measure the sweetness of something and thereby make comparisons about how sweet things are. Check it out, it's pretty sweet. Get ad-free episodes at patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast.comLinks and References: https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2007/05/how-do-they-measure-the-sweetness-of-sugar-substitutes.htmlhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8009737/ https://www.sweetenerbook.com/assets/blogs/measure.html https://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/edible-innovations/artificial-sweetener.htm?srch_tag=elzr3h5bpjo6owafwknxzobucfhzpm3s Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast

In part 2, we continue through the history of the Burning Man event. Then, we get into what to expect what how to prepare if you plan to attend Burning Man. Finally, we conclude with some criticisms and arguments people have made against Burning Man either in general or with respect to its most recent iteration. Would you ever go to Burning Man? Have you ever been? Tell us what you think!Join our supporters club:www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastRecommendations (Part 2)Abraham: Lure (https://www.allplay.com/board-games/lure/)Shane: Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred (https://diablo4.blizzard.com/en-us/)Holidays (28 Jan 2026):American Immigration Lawyers Association Day of ActionChrista McAuliffe DayDaisy DayGlobal Community Engagement DayInternational Lego DayInternational Reducing Co2 Emissions DayLibrary Shelfie DayNational Blueberry Pancake DayNational Data Privacy DayNational Kazoo DayNational Pediatrician DayPop Art DayRubber Ducky DayData PRivacy WeekInternational Hot Air Balloon WeekKiss a Shark WeekNational Clean Out Your Inbox WeekNational Cowboy Poetry Gathering WeekLinks and References: https://history.burningman.org/https://history.burningman.org/timeline/https://www.visitrenotahoe.com/iconic-events/burning-manhttps://www.rgj.com/story/news/2024/08/20/burning-man-history-purpose-origins-black-rock-city/74874537007/https://burningman.org/black-rock-city/preparation/first-timers-guide/https://www.reddit.com/r/BurningMan/comments/12z7avo/things_you_wish_you_knew_before_going_to_your/https://rocknheavy.net/burning-man-a-complete-guide-c0719e9f20a8https://burningman.org/about-us/https://www.sfgate.com/travel/burningman/article/everything-people-get-wrong-about-burning-man-19726500.phphttps://www.theransomnote.com/art-culture/events/the-misconceptions-of-burning-man-a-reflection/https://www.businessinsider.com/burning-man-festival-attendee-negatives-warning-advice-2023-8https://www.treehugger.com/time-to-rethink-burning-man-7965803https://www.hcn.org/articles/desert-what-are-the-real-impacts-on-burning-mans-playa/#:~:text=Some%20other%20environmental%20concerns%20include:%20*%20**Commodification,up%20after%20themselves%20*%20Respect%20their%20homelandhttps://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/burning-mangoers-share-their-craziest-stories-from-the-festival-10496942.htmlhttps://www.sfgate.com/travel/burningman/article/i-was-wrong-about-burning-man-21024611.phphttps://burningman.org/news/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast

One of the most spine-tingling, misophonia-inducing sounds (for some) is the sound of teeth grinding together. Bruxism, teeth-grinding, is a habit that can occur wihle asleep or awake and can have potentially serious side-effects. We will discuss who does it and why and what you can do about it. Join our cool-kids club: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcastLinks and References: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bruxism/symptoms-causes/syc-20356095https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10955-teeth-grinding-bruxismhttps://www.cedars-sinai.org/stories-and-insights/expert-advice/teeth-grindinghttps://dentistrycharlottesville.com/the-grind-of-stress-how-teeth-grinding-impacts-your-health-and-how-to-manage-it/https://www.columbiadoctors.org/news/you-may-be-grinding-your-teeth-without-even-knowing-it https://health.mil/News/Articles/2022/02/28/Teeth-Grinding-You-Wont-Believe-How-Harmful-it-Really-Ishttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36448332/#:~:text=A%20large%2Dscale%20polysomnographic%20study%20found%20that%2049.7%25,index%20*%20Higher%20percentage%20of%20N1%20sleephttps://www.jewelautismcentre.com/how-habit-reversal-training-can-help-reduce-teeth-grinding-in-adolescents-with-autism/#:~:text=Habit%20Reversal%20Training%20is%20a,to%20look%20at%20behavior%20holistically.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast

There is a unique annual art event that is hours from civilization in the blistering hot sun that culminates the incineration of humungous humanoid effigy. This four-decade long tradition is a celebration of art, creativity, individuality, community, and self-expression. But, it is not without it's flaw and foibles. We spend two episodes unpacking the history and contemporary features of this event and the criticisms leveled at it.Recommendations (Part 2)Abraham: Lure (https://www.allplay.com/board-games/lure/)Shane: Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred (https://diablo4.blizzard.com/en-us/)Holidays (28 Jan 2026):American Immigration Lawyers Association Day of ActionChrista McAuliffe DayDaisy DayGlobal Community Engagement DayInternational Lego DayInternational Reducing Co2 Emissions DayLibrary Shelfie DayNational Blueberry Pancake DayNational Data Privacy DayNational Kazoo DayNational Pediatrician DayPop Art DayRubber Ducky DayData PRivacy WeekInternational Hot Air Balloon WeekKiss a Shark WeekNational Clean Out Your Inbox WeekNational Cowboy Poetry Gathering WeekLinks and References: https://history.burningman.org/https://history.burningman.org/timeline/https://www.visitrenotahoe.com/iconic-events/burning-manhttps://www.rgj.com/story/news/2024/08/20/burning-man-history-purpose-origins-black-rock-city/74874537007/https://burningman.org/black-rock-city/preparation/first-timers-guide/https://www.reddit.com/r/BurningMan/comments/12z7avo/things_you_wish_you_knew_before_going_to_your/https://rocknheavy.net/burning-man-a-complete-guide-c0719e9f20a8https://burningman.org/about-us/https://www.sfgate.com/travel/burningman/article/everything-people-get-wrong-about-burning-man-19726500.phphttps://www.theransomnote.com/art-culture/events/the-misconceptions-of-burning-man-a-reflection/https://www.businessinsider.com/burning-man-festival-attendee-negatives-warning-advice-2023-8https://www.treehugger.com/time-to-rethink-burning-man-7965803https://www.hcn.org/articles/desert-what-are-the-real-impacts-on-burning-mans-playa/#:~:text=Some%20other%20environmental%20concerns%20include:%20*%20**Commodification,up%20after%20themselves%20*%20Respect%20their%20homelandhttps://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/burning-mangoers-share-their-craziest-stories-from-the-festival-10496942.htmlhttps://www.sfgate.com/travel/burningman/article/i-was-wrong-about-burning-man-21024611.phphttps://burningman.org/news/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/why-we-do-what-we-do--3419521/support.Support our podcast: www.patreon.com/wwdwwdpodcast