SmartDrivel

Latest Episodes:

Ep.198: Art is Everywhere (redux) Jan 22, 2024

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Stretching their word retrieval abilities, Jon and Kurt have fun in this episode by coming up with words that have ‘art’ embedded within them. Art means one thing on its own (the beautiful category of expressionism–be it paintings, sculptures, poetry, novels, music, dance, etc.), but take that word and stuff it into another, and it takes on a whole new life.

Ep.197: Getting Stoned Jan 15, 2024

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Stones. They are a big part of history (Blarney, Rosetta), fiction (Philosopher’s), music (Sly and the Family), people (Emma, Sharon), etc. Well, if stones really do have that big an impact across all of humanity, then they must be a great episode for Smart Drivel. Join Jon and Kurt as they discuss all things “stone”...and they aren’t even stoned while doing it.

Ep.196_The Hatfields and McCoys Jan 08, 2024

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Jon and Kurt decide to put their differences aside for a moment and delve into the world of famous rivalries. They find emblematic rivals in different categories: history, politics, fiction, business, sports, music, etc. Sometimes the foes just want to best the other no matter what and, other times, the world benefits from the output generated by the competition (e.g., “Let it Be” is a gazillion times better than “Silly Love Songs”). So, lay down your sword, respect your opponent, and take a listen.

Ep.195 Famous Pairs (redux) Jan 01, 2024

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Adam & Eve. Romulus & Remus. Gin & Tonic. Bert & Ernie. Oscar & Felix. Jon and Kurt identify, laugh, and survey just a few of the many famous pairs throughout history. It is a rollicking, fast, fun adventure.

Ep.194: It’s All Greek To Us (redux) Dec 25, 2023

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The civilization of Ancient Greece emerged into the light of history in the 8th century BC. Normally it is regarded as coming to an end when Greece fell to the Romans, in 146 BC. What is amazing is that this long gone civilization has had an enduring impact on life throughout the centuries. Jon and Kurt investigate how the ancient Greeks still permeate our society. They discuss how we name our cars, household cleaners, fancy scarves, sports teams, sneakers and more after Greek gods despite having no connection to a long-gone dynasty. Heck, even condoms carry proud Greek heritage.

Ep.193: Beer Me Dec 18, 2023

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Jon and Kurt have a hankering for a conversation about that most popular, delectable, and oft imbibed elixir—beer. They discuss and are surprised at who drinks the most beer, what beer is the most popular, and then they get all confused about how the case of beer they grew up with somehow magically grew from 24 beers to 30. Pop open a cold one and have a listen.

Ep.192: Underappreciated States (Redux) Dec 11, 2023

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Ep.191: The Chicken or the Egg? Dec 04, 2023

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Jon and Kurt hurt their brains in this episode as they attempt to make sense of the world of paradoxes. How can something that seems so contradictory end up being true? Youth is wasted on the young? This is the beginning of the end? The only constant is change? And then they discuss some of the classic paradox hypotheticals that have given philosophers throughout the ages the excuse to pull on their beards, opine endlessly, and feel justified that they are just hanging around the old marble city fountain all day. “All I know is that I know nothing.” Whoa. Buckle up.

Ep.190: Table for Ten Nov 27, 2023

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The boys are at it again…they each invite four guests for the ultimate dinner party. All will be invited to partake in the conversation, but Jon and Kurt need to first provide the bona fides of their recommendations. Jon veers towards unknown people involved in iconic parts of history. Kurt goes with historical figures who refused to be stereotyped and put into a box. It makes for a very esoteric and fascinating guest list.

Ep.189: Well, How About That! Nov 20, 2023

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We all go through life blithely using everyday products without knowing why they are what they are or why they have certain qualities. We just accept them for their utility value, not bothering to ask why. Well, phew, thankfully Jon and Kurt have decided to ask the question and this episode brings their answers. Why do winter hats have that pom pon on top? Why are doorknobs made of brass? Why do wine bottles have an indention in the bottom? And so many more….Tune in and never look at an everyday product the same again.

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