This Podcast Counts as Socializing

Ep. 15 Inventing new colors until we become the Blue Man Group

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the colorful history of pigments. From prehistoric cave art made with ochre to the ultra-modern Vantablack, we explore how cultures throughout time have invented, valued, and sometimes fought over the colors they used to decorate their world. We cover Egyptian blue and its mysterious disappearance, the luxurious legacy of ultramarine, and the accidental creation of Prussian blue, which became everything from a painter’s dream to a treatment for heavy metal poisoning. There’s drama, science, and some petty artist beef

Ep. 14 Pompeii's eruption and Vesusvius's explosion

In this episode of This Podcast Counts as Socializing, we take a deep dive into Pompeii, exploring its archaeological wonders, geological history, and the eruption of Vesuvius that buried the city in 79 CE. We break down the different types of volcanoes, from shield volcanoes to stratovolcanoes, and discuss why Mars' Olympus Mons is the biggest volcano in the solar system. Reading from Pliny the Younger's firsthand account, we relive the disaster as it unfolded, from the warning tremors to the ash-filled skies. Beyond the destruction, we explore how modern archaeology at Pompeii and Herculaneum has uncovered frescoes, graffiti, statues, and even preserved loaves of bread, giving us an intimate glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome. Whether you're fascinated by history, geology, or just want to hear about some truly wild ancient graffiti, this episode has something for you!

Ep. 13 We Live in a Society

In this episode of This Podcast Counts as Socializing, we dive into Peter Berger and Thomas Luckmann’s The Social Construction of Reality—a sociological classic that explores how humans create and maintain the world around them. We break down the difference between objective physical reality and subjective social reality, unpacking how society is built on collective agreements that feel real because we act as if they are. From money to marriage, political parties to property, we explore how social norms are not fixed truths but human inventions that can change over time. We also critique Berger’s work, highlighting his lack of focus on power structures and bringing in Karl Marx’s take on who really shapes society. Finally, we discuss how identity itself is socially constructed, leaving you with the question: if no one else recognizes who you are, do you still exist as that person?

Ep. 12 Chromosomes, Tiddies and Orgasms Oh my! It's Her-story

This episode examines the biological and evolutionary significance of the X chromosome, exploring its role in sex determination and development. It discusses the origins of sexual reproduction, the evolution of mammary glands, and theories on the prominence of human female breasts. The episode also highlights the impact of olfactory cues on mate selection and the genetic benefits of diversity. Lastly, it touches on the female orgasm and how scientific perspectives on female sexuality have evolved over time.

Ep. 11 How to get away with murder

In this episode of This Podcast Counts as Socializing, we dive into the shocking reality that nearly half of all murders in the U.S. go unsolved. We explore the factors that contribute to low homicide clearance rates, including law enforcement resource allocation, victim demographics, and crime reporting inconsistencies. Using real cases and expert insights, we break down the statistics, systemic biases, and investigative challenges that allow some killers to evade capture. Plus, we examine the methods used by infamous criminals to avoid detection and why some cases receive more attention than others. Disclaimer: We do not condone murder—please don’t kill anyone!