Nov 21

What's the History of Skid Row?

<p>In downtown Los Angeles, the 50-block neighborhood called Skid Row is home to thousands of low-income people who live in tents, run-down hotels, and other temporary shelters on a permanent basis. Learn how Skid Row came about (and has persisted) in such a wealthy place in this ... Show More

11m 25s

Nov 20

How Do You Make Hoshigaki?

<p>Hoshigaki are a type of dried fruit made by massaging a persimmon every day for weeks. Learn more about this traditional Japanese treat in today's episode of BrainStuff, based on this article: https://recipes.howstuffworks.com/tools-and-techniques/hoshigaki.htm</p><p>See <a hr ... Show More

6m 11s

Nov 11

How Does Psoriasis Work?

Psoriasis is a condition where an overactive immune system causes discomfort and discoloration of the skin. Learn what we know (and don't know!) about how psoriasis works in this episode of BrainStuff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12m 35s

Oct 2024

Selects: Porcupines: Little Stabby Cutie Pies

We love animals. A lot. Especially underrated ones like the darling porcupine. Listen in to this classic episode to learn all about these stabby little boogers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

40m 12s

Aug 2024

Short Stuff: Chupacabra

What in the world is a chupacabra? Is it even real or is it the stuff of legend? Listen in to find out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12m 25s

Dec 2024

Short Stuff: Joro Spiders

These invasive spiders are everywhere these days. But how did they get to the USA and are they harmful?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12m 11s

Aug 9

From the Vault: Blood Squirting From the Lizard’s Eye, Part 1

In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe discuss the curious biology of North America’s horned lizard – especially their ability to squirt blood from their eyes – as well as some culture and history surrounding their existence. (originally published 8/13 ... Show More

43m 36s

Jul 2025

3D-printed fake wasps help explain bad animal mimicry

In this episode:00:45 Why animals evolve to be imperfect mimicsMany harmless animals mimic dangerous ones to avoid being eaten, but often this fakery is inaccurate. To help explain why evolution sometimes favours imperfect mimicry, a team 3D printed a range of imaginary insects. ... Show More

27m 19s

Oct 2024

Kudzu: The Vine That Just Won't Stop

If you're from the American South, then kudzu is something that cannot be avoided. But how did this invasive species get here and why does it love to consume everything in its path?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

39m 10s

Jun 2024

The Charismatic Capybara

National Capybara Appreciation Day is just around the corner! To celebrate, Rick and Marco speak with Senior Wildlife Care Specialist Kimberly Hyde to find out more about the world’s largest rodent. This South American water-loving mammal might be known for its cuteness factor, b ... Show More

18m 38s

Oct 2023

Dedicated possum lovers keeping the marsupial as pets

The brushtail possum is loathed as a pest by most Kiwis, but loved as a pet by others. A small number of dedicated possum lovers have invited the marsupials into their homes and their hearts. Katie Fitzgerald reports.

3m 25s

Oct 2021

Two Whats?! And A Wow! - Feeding Frenzy

Why are there lions, badgers, and flamingos coming to Mindy's Gingerbread Mansion? We've got the questions AND answers in this wild round of Two What's And A Wow! We're challenging you to find the facts from the fiction about animal eating habits!See Privacy Policy at https://art ... Show More

9m 12s

Oct 2023

Critter of the Week: Vagrant spiders

The vagrant spiders are unique to Aotearoa. They are big and hairy, and they like to roam around in search of a meal. When they're not wandering around at night in native forests or suburban gardens, they hunker down under logs or stones. Ellen Rykers joins Jesse to tell us all a ... Show More

11m 10s

BrainStuff Classics: Why Are Opossums Aw...