Skip to main content
Smatter of Fact

Smatter of Fact

By Mal&Maddie

Just two best friends (Mal and Maddie) dabbling in speaking with superficial knowledge on our subjects, in other words: a smattering of facts.
Available on
Amazon Music Logo
Apple Podcasts Logo
Castbox Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
iHeartRadio Logo
Overcast Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Episode 81: Barbie - A Brief History

Smatter of FactAug 05, 2023

00:00
51:18
Episode 81: Barbie - A Brief History

Episode 81: Barbie - A Brief History

In this smattering of fact, we talk about the original Barbie, her creator, the legacy she left, and the controversy she created. You won't want to miss this brief history that will enhance your experience when watching the newest Barbie movie!

Aug 05, 202351:18
Episode 80: The Adventures of Amelia Earhart

Episode 80: The Adventures of Amelia Earhart

In this smattering, Mal tells us of the life and exciting adventures of the amazing Amelia Earhart... how she made history and her mysterious unsolved disappearance.

Jul 30, 202301:18:20
Episode 79: The History of Toothpaste

Episode 79: The History of Toothpaste

In this smattering, Maddie brings us an overview of the interesting history of toothpaste. You'll want to read your toothpaste label and maybe cut open the tube after this one!

Jun 27, 202301:04:09
Episode 78: The Great Lakes

Episode 78: The Great Lakes

In this smattering of facts, Mal takes us on a journey getting to know Michigan's Great Lakes... and the mysteries lurking deep beneath their surfaces.

Jun 10, 202301:02:53
Episode 77: The Life and Legacy of Dr. Seuss

Episode 77: The Life and Legacy of Dr. Seuss

In this wubulous smattering of all things Suessical and learn of all things Soisical (you'll have to listen to find out). The story of the man behind the Dr. Seuss stories is a wild ride with many twists and turns.

May 22, 202301:04:28
Episode 76: All About Cats!

Episode 76: All About Cats!

We've brought you strange animal hybrids, corgis, other dog facts, and much more on the topic of animals... now we bring you a smattering about our feline friends: cats!

May 17, 202355:25
Episode 75: Internet Trends We Forgot About

Episode 75: Internet Trends We Forgot About

In this smattering, Maddie takes us on a trip down memory lane, of course we get sidetracked and talk about our childhoods, but the nostalgia we felt was worth every second!

May 04, 202359:58
Episode 74: How to Become a Millionaire

Episode 74: How to Become a Millionaire

In this smattering, Mal tells us some of the most interesting ways that people have become millionaires... sometimes on purpose and sometimes as an accident. Maybe these stories will spark an idea of how you can become a millionaire!

Apr 28, 202356:09
Episode 73: Code Talkers

Episode 73: Code Talkers

Maddie brings us a smatter of facts from history, and the incredible work of the Native American Code Talkers during (mainly) World War II. Their story isn't one that is well known, but it changed the course of history forever.

Apr 20, 202351:18
Episode 72: Give Us Some Space...

Episode 72: Give Us Some Space...

In this smattering, Mal dives into outer space and how space travel is possible, how it affects the body, and how things are made.

Apr 13, 202301:07:37
Episode 71: Strange Facts About the Human Body

Episode 71: Strange Facts About the Human Body

Maddie brings us a smattering on the strange and wonderful human body... which raises some questions about how these things were discovered.

Apr 06, 202347:18
Episode 70: The Expeditions of Ernest Shackleton

Episode 70: The Expeditions of Ernest Shackleton

Prepare yourself for an extra large smattering of facts brought to you this week by Mal, as we dive into the wild tale of Ernest Shackleton and his lifelong quest to conquer the South Pole. As a bonus, listen to the end to hear about the amazing cat who joined him on one of his attempts to reach the South Pole.

Mar 20, 202301:32:60
Episode 69: The Big Eyes Artist

Episode 69: The Big Eyes Artist

In this smattering of facts, Maddie tells us about the Big Eyes artist Margaret Keane, and her tumultuous relationship with a husband who took credit for her work for several years. You won't want to miss hearing the end of this saga of love, lies, and big eyes.

Mar 09, 202344:09
Episode 68: Titanic Conspiracy Theories

Episode 68: Titanic Conspiracy Theories

Well, folks, we finally did it... in this episode, we finally bring you a smattering of conspiracy theories about Titanic, and her ultimate demise. There are some pretty crazy ones. What does the phrase "No Pope," a book written decades before, or a grand murder plan have to do with any of this? You'll have to listen to find out!

Feb 28, 202348:36
Episode 67: The Dark History of the Wizard of Oz

Episode 67: The Dark History of the Wizard of Oz

In this episode, Maddie brings us a smattering of the dark history of the Wizard of Oz. The story of how it came to be, the author, and eventually the 1939 beloved film, and the dark history of how the film came to be. 

Feb 23, 202350:02
Episode 66: The Experiments of Stanley Milgram

Episode 66: The Experiments of Stanley Milgram

In this episode, Mal brings us a smattering of facts about psychologist Stanley Milgram, and the social experiments he conducted to learn more about human nature... what they revealed and why he began them are interesting to say the least. You won't want to miss this true story about human psychological experimentation.

Feb 13, 202353:09
Episode 65: Guinness World Records

Episode 65: Guinness World Records

In this episode, Maddie bring us a smattering about Guinness World Records, how the book came to be, some of the strict and, at times, funny guidelines, and of course, a smattering of facts from the 2022 Guinness World Record book!

Feb 06, 202356:49
Episode 64: Household Killers

Episode 64: Household Killers

How many of these household killers did you know about? Listen to this week's smattering to hear about the dark history behind things found in common household items... and what has happened since.

Feb 02, 202354:15
Episode 63: Believe It or Not!

Episode 63: Believe It or Not!

Maddie brings you a smattering about Ripley's Believe It or Not and the surprising origin story behind the books, museums, and shows. As a bonus, we brought you a smattering of facts from Guiness World Records... be on the lookout for more on that soon!

Jan 26, 202301:00:51
Episode 62: The Life and Legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Episode 62: The Life and Legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.

On the this third Monday in January, we are honoring the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., by giving you a smattering of facts on the work that he did toward social injustice. Listen to find out about the impact that he made through his determination and perseverance and some fun facts about his life!

Jan 16, 202352:04
Episode 61: The Tragedy of Pompeii

Episode 61: The Tragedy of Pompeii

Maddie brings us a smattering about the lost city of Pompeii that was found almost two thousand years later. Find about more about the amazing history, graffiti, and discovery process by listening now!

Jan 09, 202357:02
Episode 60: The Mystery of Atlantis

Episode 60: The Mystery of Atlantis

We are ringing in the New Year by talking about another intriguing conspiracy theory, one swallowed by the depths of the ocean... Atlantis. Mal has brought us a smattering about the history behind this elusive place and why it has held the interest of so many people over the years. 

Jan 02, 202332:21
Episode 59: The History of the Nutcracker

Episode 59: The History of the Nutcracker

Maddie brings us to the ballet in the History of the Nutcracker, where she gives us a smattering of the history and how some of the problematic elements still exist to this day, along with some Nutcracker fun facts at the end!

Dec 22, 202247:32
Episode 58: Strange and Amazing Animal Hybrids

Episode 58: Strange and Amazing Animal Hybrids

From friendly house cats to lions, tigers, and cows, animal hybrids have been fascinating humans for years. In this episode, we talk about some of the most common and successful animal hybrids that exist today.
Dec 15, 202241:09
Episode 57: The Tragedy of the Edmund Fitzgerald with Josh Gingery

Episode 57: The Tragedy of the Edmund Fitzgerald with Josh Gingery

This smattering of facts is brought to you by second time guest and (maybe) SOF enthusiast Josh Gingery, where he tells the history of the Edmund Fitzgerald, from its building to its sinking. If you’ve never heard this story from the Great Lakes, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Dec 05, 202201:12:42
Episode 56: The Scottish Clan System

Episode 56: The Scottish Clan System

Maddie brings a smattering about life in the Scottish Highlands and just how the clan system worked. And of course we couldn’t help but talk a little about Outlander...
Dec 01, 202254:19
Episode 55: Unexplainable Weather

Episode 55: Unexplainable Weather

Today we are learning about some of the most baffling and bizarre weather phenomena that has been recorded. Everything from a plague of locusts to horse lung raining down... it’s a doozy.
Oct 31, 202201:08:31
Episode 54: The History of Thyme

Episode 54: The History of Thyme

Yes, you read that right... the history of thyme. Like the herb.
Oct 24, 202239:55
Episode 53: History of Time

Episode 53: History of Time

Buckle up, folks, Mal is taking us on a journey through time as we learn about how our calendar and clocks developed into what they are today.
Oct 18, 202252:41
Episode 52: Dogs Gone Wild

Episode 52: Dogs Gone Wild

You know Maddie’s excited to talk about something when she forgets to introduce herself and tries to take Mal’s line of the intro... and what more does Maddie get excited to talk about than all things dogs? Today’s episode is full of fun facts about dogs and why they are the way they are.
Oct 13, 202257:05
Episode 51: The Soap Opera of Yore, Queen Elizabeth I

Episode 51: The Soap Opera of Yore, Queen Elizabeth I

You thought Downton Abbey was juicy? Clearly, you don’t know the twists and turns of the life of Queen Elizabeth I...
Oct 04, 202251:45
Episode 50: We’re BACK, But the Queen Is Not

Episode 50: We’re BACK, But the Queen Is Not

After a summer long break, we are finally back AND better than ever. And what better way to re-kick off than by talking about fun facts about our favorite Queen? (No, not Julie Andrews.) We also threw in a surprise list of fun facts, so this is a double episode for you enjoyment.
Sep 20, 202201:15:27
Episode 49: The Vernal Equinox

Episode 49: The Vernal Equinox

We are back and uhhhhh, yeah, we’re back. This episode was a fun one, but our audio had quite a few issues, so bear that in mind when listening :)
May 30, 202201:09:44
Episode 48: Food Combos People Swear By

Episode 48: Food Combos People Swear By

Listen to this episode to hear about some of the best and potentially worst combinations of food that people actually enjoy eating... would you try some of these bizarre couplings?
Feb 28, 202244:43
Episode 47: Valentine’s Day

Episode 47: Valentine’s Day

In this episode, we talk about the history behind the iconic day of love and how it’s celebrated around the world.
Feb 08, 202246:41
Episode 46: History and Culture of the Amish

Episode 46: History and Culture of the Amish

In this episode, Mal gives us a smattering of facts about where the Amish came from, what they believe, and how they live their lives.
Jan 06, 202251:26
Episode 45: Are You Stressed?

Episode 45: Are You Stressed?

If you answered “yes” to the title of this episode, then hit the play button and listen to learn about what stress is, how not to deal with it, and some useful tips on how to deal with it.
Dec 06, 202152:01
Episode 44: The History of Mummies

Episode 44: The History of Mummies

Whoops! We got busy and definitely did not upload this on Halloween as planned, but you definitely don’t want to miss out on this spooky smattering about mummies.
Nov 13, 202141:59
Episode 43: the Salem Witch Trials

Episode 43: the Salem Witch Trials

Spooky season is well upon us, and this episode, we are talking about the Salem witch trials, and a brief history surrounding the hysteria around witches.
Oct 25, 202141:10
Episode 42: Famous Historical Events - Debunked

Episode 42: Famous Historical Events - Debunked

Ever heard the story of George Washington chopping down the cherry tree? Or that Christopher Columbus discovered the Americas? Well, you may have been told a historical myth. Listen to this episode to hear the truth behind these two stories and from others!
Sep 29, 202142:55
Episode 41: The Life and Death of Vincent Van Gogh

Episode 41: The Life and Death of Vincent Van Gogh

The title says it all. Gogh listen to this episode to hear the heartbreaking and tragic smattering story of Vincent Van Gogh.
Sep 15, 202139:38
Episode 40: Area 51

Episode 40: Area 51

We promise we’re not just a conspiracy theory podcast... but we had to talk about this one.
Aug 28, 202136:47
Episode 39: Accidental Inventions

Episode 39: Accidental Inventions

Today we explore a list of accidental inventions that changed the world as we know it. How many of these brilliant mistakes did you know about?
Aug 23, 202136:54
Episode 38: Shakespearean Insults

Episode 38: Shakespearean Insults

Basically, we just yell Shakespearean insults back and forth in this episode. We had a lot of fun reading these ye olden insults, so give us a listen and let us know what insult was your favorite.
Aug 04, 202125:28
Episode 37: Phrases Coined by Shakespeare

Episode 37: Phrases Coined by Shakespeare

In today’s episode, we review a list of phrases that Shakespeare is credited with creating. How many did you know?
Jul 28, 202141:53
Episode 36: Is the Earth Hollow?

Episode 36: Is the Earth Hollow?

Today we pose a very interesting question: is the earth hollow? Take a listen to hear the theories and legends behind this crazy question.
Jul 14, 202140:38
Episode 35: Performers Who Died Onstage

Episode 35: Performers Who Died Onstage

The life of a performer is exciting, sometimes daring, and sometimes deadly. In this episode, we cover some of the untimely deaths of onstage performers.
Jul 07, 202157:05
Episode 34: The Bermuda Triangle

Episode 34: The Bermuda Triangle

Today we are talking about the Devil’s Triangle — the history, real life occurrences, the mystery, and theories surrounding this mysterious maritime mystery.
Jun 29, 202145:53
Episode 33: James Strang, the King of Beaver Island with Josh Gingery

Episode 33: James Strang, the King of Beaver Island with Josh Gingery

This episode marks an exciting time in Smatter of Fact history: we have our first podcast guest appearance from the one and only Josh Gingery. Josh is one of our biggest fans and first listeners, and led the episode where he talks about the rise and fall of James Strang and Beaver Island in Michigan.
Jun 16, 202101:12:43
Episode 32: The History of the Olympics

Episode 32: The History of the Olympics

Join us in learning about the fascinating origins of the most famous games in the world. Mal dives into how they started, how they’ve changed, and dspells some common myths.
Jun 03, 202137:32