Episodios

  • The Titanic was called unsinkable, so why did it sink?
    Apr 15 2026

    The Titanic sank only four days into its voyage. Even though the ship was lost to the ocean, the history and stories survived. Join Joy and her co-host Juniper as they find out how this mega ship was built, hear some theories on why it sank, and learn how the history of this voyage was preserved by dedicated historians.

    Featured Expert:
    Ross Mumford is a Titanic researcher, historian and educator. He currently manages Titanic: the Exhibit.

    Click here to read a transcript of this episode.

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    27 m
  • Day Light Saving: The surprising story behind why we change our clocks
    Apr 8 2026

    Twice a year, many countries move their clocks by an hour. But why? It turns out humans have been messing with minutes and hours for centuries. Join Joy and co-host Rehema as they explore the history of Day Light Saving, from a bug hunter who wanted more daylight for collecting insects to a World War where every hour of light was precious.

    Find our Brains On episode about the science behind Daylight Saving Time here or wherever you get your podcasts!

    Click here to read a transcript of this episode.

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    26 m
  • From sickness to sweetness: the story of Candy Land
    Apr 1 2026

    Candy Land is iconic. The cute characters, the simple rules, it’s the perfect game for kids of all ages. But it all started as a way to cheer up children stuck in the hospital. Learn how this game was invented when a teacher needed a way to help kids recovering from Polio. Plus, Joy and co-host Ava take a Candy Land quiz with Gumpy, the gum sculpture that came to life.

    Click here to read a transcript of this episode.

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    23 m
  • How diamonds became the symbol of love
    Mar 25 2026

    Today, it’s almost cliche to give someone a diamond ring to prove your love. But 100 years ago, that wasn’t the case. Back then, diamonds were seen as luxury items for the rich and famous. But thanks to some creative advertisers (and a whole lot of extra diamonds), these sparkly jewels became the symbol of love in much of the world. Join Joy and co-host Diya as they explore the enchanting history of diamonds.

    Click here to read a transcript of this episode.

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    23 m
  • Why are they called Teddy Bears?
    Mar 18 2026

    Do you have a favorite stuffed animal? Maybe it’s a unicorn, or an axolotl, or a classic stuffed bear. Whatever it is, you can thank a former U.S. President for helping make stuffies a thing. Join Joy and co-host Luke as they learn about the origins of the Teddy Bear and find out about a stuffed possum that should’ve been the next big toy craze, but never caught on. Plus another round of First Things First.

    Click here to read a transcript of this episode.

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    22 m
  • First Things First Spectacular
    Mar 11 2026

    We’re so thrilled to be back that we’re celebrating with a very special episode. It’s a First Things First Spectacular! We’ll be playing three different rounds of the game where we put things in the order they came in history. We’ve brought in three history experts and three kid co-hosts to help. So strap on your history hats and get ready for a fact-tastic time!

    Click here to read a transcript of this episode.

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    35 m
  • Forever Ago Season 8 is coming!!!
    Mar 4 2026

    Get ready to explore the before... some more! That's right, a brand new season of Forever Ago is around the corner.

    Tell your friends!

    Let your enemies know by sending them a cryptic message 🎧🕰️ ⒻⒶ🔙🔜 🕰️🎧

    Leak it to the press!

    The first episode drops March 11, and it's a doozy - an all First Things First episode. Make sure you're subscribed, so you won't miss a thing.

    Want to listen to Forever Ago without the ads? Sign up for Smarty Pass, and you'll get ad-free versions of Forever Ago, Brains On, Smash Boom Best and more! As an independent podcast, we count on subscriptions to keep our shows going. Thank you!

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    1 m
  • Forever Ago is coming back and we want your help
    Dec 4 2025

    Woooohooooo and historical HUZZAH! We are coming back next spring and can't wait for you to hear all that we have planned. Now that Forever Ago and the entire Brains On Universe are independent, we need your support more than ever. We make the show for you, and we can't make it without you.

    Help us make this the best season yet, and subscribe to Smarty Pass. You get ad-free versions of Forever Ago, Brains On, Smash Boom Best and Moment of Um. There are also discounts on live events and merch, plus hangouts with the show creators.

    Do you want a personalized message from a mayonaise-hating, elephant-loving, historical host with chuztpah (aka Joy Dolo)?!? Well, friend, you are in luck. Not only is that part of our Galactic Explorers club tier, but it's currently on sale - don't delay! Sign up for your Smarty Pass today.

    We can't wait to explore the before with you again next spring!

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    1 m