How Freak Shows Worked

Psychologist Julian Jaynes came up with a stunning hypothesis in 1976, that human consciousness only developed in the last 3000 years. And he seemed to have proof in ancient texts. Scholars have been picking it apart ever since and in this classic episode we join the club.See omn ...  Show more

Of course we're talking all about maple syrup today - the tapping, the processing, the eating.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. 

P.T. Barnum popularized freak shows in the U.S. The most popular freaks were those with disabilities who could perform everyday tasks. Tune in to learn more about the relationship between female freaks, beauty pageant contestants and striptease dancers.

Joice Heth never wanted to be in show business. It wasn’t the world that she came from. But when she met P.T. Barnum, the course of her life took a turn she never saw coming. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for p ...  Show more

Have you ever known someone who donated their body to science? On paper, it's an extraordinarily noble act. Yet in the US, this form of donation is chock-full of Stuff They Don't Want You To Know. In this episode, the guys dive headlong into the tragic, often disgusting realit ...

Throughout our history, clowning has been a powerful art form, capable of bringing joy and swaying politicians. Come wire walk with us as we look at famous female clowns, past and present.