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You Know What I've Been Wondering?

You Know What I've Been Wondering?

By Sarah Bedwell & Jane Bertelsen

A podcast where two roommates ask each other about all the things we should know about - but don't. You Know What I've Been Wondering? is a comedy, history, and culture podcast answering the questions you've always wanted to ask. What are the actual origins of astrology? Why is Kombucha so popular? Who are the Bird Truthers? You ask, we answer. This is the opposite of mansplaining.
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Rosé & Bellevue Hospital

You Know What I've Been Wondering?Apr 01, 2020

00:00
01:01:03
Secretariat & Sunscreen

Secretariat & Sunscreen

It's very hot outside - stay inside and listen to us instead! This week, Jane shares the story of racehorse Secretariat (and some Seabiscuit facts). Sarah explains why you should absolutely be wearing sunscreen all the time!

Jun 30, 202101:20:25
Australian Wildlife & Hart Island

Australian Wildlife & Hart Island

Your weekly reminder that there are many things in the sea that can kill you, so swim with caution this summer, folks! Jane shares facts about some of Australia's most unique, and deadly, wildlife. Sarah explains the history of Hart Island and its significance in Queer History. We want to wish a happy Pride month to all our queer friends out there. Whether or not being out is an option for you, we hope you find a way to a life where you can be your most authentic self. 

Jun 18, 202101:13:20
Madame Tussaud & Runes

Madame Tussaud & Runes

Jane makes many bad rune puns in this. You have been warned! This week, Jane further explains who Madame Tussaud was (but there is the devastating absence of any heads in jars). Sarah explains where runes came from and their uses. We also discuss the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921 in honor of its 100th anniversary. 

Jun 03, 202101:05:09
Sesame Street & Traffic Laws

Sesame Street & Traffic Laws

I guess this week we went for a street sign theme? Jane explains the development of Sesame Street. Sarah shares the history of traffic laws in the United States. Plus, a big chat about grief and loss in the middle.

May 26, 202101:14:51
May Day & JonBenet Ramsey

May Day & JonBenet Ramsey

We did not intentionally rhyme our topics, we promise. This week, Jane explains the origins of May Day. Sarah discusses a popular theory on JonBenet Ramsey's murder. We also have a long chat on pop culture and gender. CW: violence against children, death, sexual assault.

May 13, 202101:18:22
Designated Survivors & The Draining of Niagara Falls

Designated Survivors & The Draining of Niagara Falls

We missed you last week! If you are disgusted by bugs, maybe skip the first 20 minutes. This week, Jane explains how a designated survivor is chosen. Sarah tells the story of the 1969 drainage of Niagara Falls. 

May 05, 202101:03:11
Imperial vs Metric System & The Great Emu War

Imperial vs Metric System & The Great Emu War

Emus may be flightless but this episode is taking off! This week, Jane explains the developments of the imperial and metric systems. Sarah tells the story of the Great Emu War of Western Australia. If you see an emu in the wild, please do not approach. 

Apr 21, 202158:23
Nutrition Science & The Hollow Earth

Nutrition Science & The Hollow Earth

CW: dieting, food. Sarah apologizes for the weird scratching noises over her mic, not sure what was going on there, and overall we're just unhinged. But that's what makes it more fun! This week, Jane explains how we know the nutritional information of certain foods. Sarah explains the Hollow Earth conspiracy. We also play a game! 

Apr 15, 202101:25:33
Chinese Exclusion Act & 442nd Regimental Combat Team

Chinese Exclusion Act & 442nd Regimental Combat Team

Anti-Asian Hate in this country is not new - in fact, it's foundational to our treatment of immigrants in this country. This week, Jane explains the Chinese Exclusion Act and its impact on immigration law. Sarah shares the story of the 442nd Infantry Regiment. Plus, a brief discussion of Georgia's new voting law. 

Apr 07, 202101:16:20
Iditarod & Credit Scores

Iditarod & Credit Scores

It's our 101 Dalmatians episode! This week, Jane discusses the Alaskan Iditarod and its origins. Sarah explains credit scores. And April Fool's, it's a day late! Sorry!

Apr 01, 202156:43
Larry Stylinson (Pt 2) & Artemisia Gentileschi: The Centennial Episode

Larry Stylinson (Pt 2) & Artemisia Gentileschi: The Centennial Episode

Thank you so much for a startling ONE HUNDRED EPISODES! We're honored to have been providing useless information for two years. This week, Jane redeems herself on our favorite pop culture topic: Larry Stylinson. Sarah shares the story of her favorite Italian artist, Artemisia Gentileschi. 

Mar 24, 202101:27:48
The Brooklyn Bridge & Women in Science

The Brooklyn Bridge & Women in Science

In honor of National Women's Month, we would like to highlight the accomplishments of women in STEM fields, including the woman that completed the Brooklyn Bridge! This week, Jane shares the tragic story that accompanies the building of the Brooklyn Bridge. Sarah highlights some incredible female scientists from past and present. And, this is Episode 99! Thank you everyone who encouraged us. We're looking forward to next week's ONE HUNDREDTH episode!

Mar 17, 202101:17:52
The Lindbergh Baby & Forty-Seven Rōnin

The Lindbergh Baby & Forty-Seven Rōnin

This week's episode is filled with some characters and surprising shenanigans! Jane shares the often over-simplified story of the Lindbergh baby kidnapping and Sarah explains the revenge of the forty-seven rōnin. Content warning for discussion of suicide and violence against children. 

Mar 10, 202101:25:52
Free Britney Update & Marriage Customs

Free Britney Update & Marriage Customs

March hit me baby, one more time. This week, Jane gives an update on Britney Spears's conservatorship and we discuss the cancellation of Dr. Seuss. Sarah explains the evolution of marriage proposals and the institution of marriage worldwide. Content Warning: we do get into a discussion of child marriage, forced marriage, and sexual violence. 

Mar 03, 202101:01:43
The Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster & La Guillotine

The Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster & La Guillotine

This week, Jane explains the surprising origins of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster. Sarah explains why the guillotine was created, and the ultimate impact of capital punishment. CW: Violence, death, suicide, brutality. For more information on the case against the death penalty, please visit the ACLU's or Amnesty International's website.

Feb 24, 202101:10:03
Serena and Venus Williams & Mermaids

Serena and Venus Williams & Mermaids

This episode is not about a conspiracy theory that Serena and Venus Williams are mermaids, but if that is a conspiracy, please let us know! This week, Jane explains how Serena and Venus became two of the best athletes in the world. Sarah shares some lore about mermaids and how their legend all began. 

Feb 17, 202101:05:32
Switched at Birth & Pyramids of Giza

Switched at Birth & Pyramids of Giza

Maybe the people who built the pyramids were switched at birth with aliens... but who's to say? This week, Jane shares some true, exciting, heartbreaking, and aggravating switched at birth tales. Sarah explains how the pyramids were built, and of course there's some conspiracy thrown in there.

Feb 10, 202101:12:15
Snowpiercer & Shifting

Snowpiercer & Shifting

Punxsutawney Phil says six more weeks of winter, so it's time to get cozy and listen to another episode of You Know What I've Been Wondering? This week, Jane explains some of the science behind the show and film Snowpiercer. Sarah explains the TikTok trend shifting.

Feb 03, 202141:07
Malcolm X & Fake Celebrity Relationships

Malcolm X & Fake Celebrity Relationships

Where are we Wednesday? Still inside! While Jane learned about something useful this week (the life and legacy of Malcom X), Sarah descended into TikTok conspiracy chaos. Do you believe Harry Styles and Olivia Wilde are really together? On a more serious note, we hope everyone took some time last week on MLK Day and beyond to consider the role of Black activists in our past and present. May the legacy of Malcolm X empower you to future action!

Jan 27, 202101:03:05
Layers of the Earth & Norse Mythology

Layers of the Earth & Norse Mythology

Let's talk about things that MIGHT NOT BE REAL! Sarah is only a little bitter as Jane discusses the theory of the Earth's layers. Sarah shares some Norse myths. 

Jan 14, 202101:06:07
Chinese Zodiac & Meal Kits

Chinese Zodiac & Meal Kits

It's nearly the year of the ox! Let's hope it brings more stability than the year of the rat. This week, Jane explains the origins of the Chinese Zodiac. Sarah discusses the economic impact of meal kits. 

Jan 08, 202101:10:33
Protests in India & Pets with Disabilities

Protests in India & Pets with Disabilities

It's the last episode of 2020! We are not sorry to say goodbye to this crazy year. For our final episode this year, Jane explains why the largest protests in history are occurring in India at the moment. Sarah explains how cats and dogs perceive the world, and how you can help your disabled pet. Have a safe and healthy holiday everyone! We'll see you in January.

Dec 24, 202051:55
The Dairy Industry & Scientology (with Samantha Narciso)

The Dairy Industry & Scientology (with Samantha Narciso)

Which is the bigger bad, the dairy industry or the Church of Scientology? That's not a call we're prepared to make since they're both EVIL! This week, we're joined by special guest and cult expert Samantha Narciso. Jane explains how different milks are made and ranks their environmental impact. Sam takes over explaining the origins of Scientology and Sarah has fun unpacking a conspiracy theory. 

Dec 16, 202001:30:17
Anastasia & Yellowstone Zone of Death

Anastasia & Yellowstone Zone of Death

Anastasia was probably murdered by the Bolsheviks, but we're in quarantine, and we're allowed to imagine that she wasn't. This week, Jane explains the myth surrounding the Grand Duchess Anastasia's "survival". Sarah actually learns what the Yellowstone Zone of Death is. Plus, two kids go on a joyride! 

Dec 09, 202054:34
Yellowstone Volcano & The Bermuda Triangle

Yellowstone Volcano & The Bermuda Triangle

On this week's episode of YKWIBW? Jane does a terrible job of answering Sarah's question but does an excellent job scaring her. This week, Jane discusses the volcano at Yellowstone and what would happen should it erupt (which it could!) Sarah shares some Bermuda Triangle mysteries. Do you have a theory on what's going on in that patch of ocean?

Dec 03, 202001:03:23
Black Friday & Magicians

Black Friday & Magicians

It’s called Black Friday magic, baby! This week Jane explains the origins of peak capitalism, Black Friday. Sarah shares the history of performing magic and kind of exposes a secret society? Happy Thanksgiving to all of our American listeners and remember to shop small this year and every year.
Nov 26, 202001:09:52
Native Land Acknowledgements

Native Land Acknowledgements

Happy Native American Heritage Month! As we near a holiday that "celebrates peace" between Native Americans and English colonists, we want to acknowledge the occupied land we live on and the people from whom it was stolen. In the real spirit of giving, please consider donating to programs that support indigenous communities and/or supporting Native American-owned stores this holiday season.

Nov 18, 202001:02:25
Pirates & Dream Interpretation

Pirates & Dream Interpretation

If you're dreaming about pirates, we cannot help you. But if you've ever wondered what real pirates were like and/or what your non-pirate dreams mean, we're here for you! This week, Jane discusses the real work of the pirates of the Caribbean. Sarah explains popular methods of dream interpretation and what they mean.

Nov 11, 202001:04:14
Scary Stories with Sarah and Jane

Scary Stories with Sarah and Jane

Happy Halloween! This week, we wanted to take a break from our regular research and facts to read you some creepypastas. Please enjoy this as an alternative to partying on Halloween and endangering your community! Stay safe out there. 

Oct 29, 202001:24:50
Vlad the Impaler & Evidence of Ghosts

Vlad the Impaler & Evidence of Ghosts

To be the person that inspired Dracula is a big legacy... does Vlad measure up? This week, Jane tells the story of Vlad the Impaler, a very metal medieval ruler. Sarah shares the little evidence that can prove ghosts exist, and importantly, how to know if you're being tricked! 

Oct 21, 202001:23:00
Haunted Houses & Illuminati

Haunted Houses & Illuminati

Secret societies give me a fright! This week, Jane shares the history of haunted houses and Sarah explains who the real Illuminati were. Are Beyonce, Al Roker, and Eminem clones? We'll leave that up to you!

Oct 14, 202001:06:05
H.P. Lovecraft & Oktoberfest

H.P. Lovecraft & Oktoberfest

How do we know H.P. Lovecraft was racist? He told us! This week, Jane talks about Lovecraft's legacy. Sarah talks about the biggest drinking party in the world, Oktoberfest. Less than one month until the US Election! Are you registered? Have you learned a bit about your local candidates?

Oct 07, 202001:08:59
Karmageddon & Yugoslavia

Karmageddon & Yugoslavia

Happy International Podcasting Day! Shane Dawson and Jeffree Star have both been canceled, but more importantly, who canceled Yugoslavia? Jane and Sarah will answer!

Sep 30, 202001:27:04
Hong Kong & The 1619 Project

Hong Kong & The 1619 Project

Freedom of speech is really important! This week, Jane discusses the challenges facing journalists in Hong Kong. Sarah explains what the 1619 Project is and why it makes Trump upset. Plus, who is Reference Man?

Sep 23, 202059:54
The Jamaican Bobsled Team & Rumspringa

The Jamaican Bobsled Team & Rumspringa

We SLEIGH all day! This week, Jane tells the true story of the Jamaican Bobsled Team behind the 1993 classic film, Cool Runnings. Sarah explains the Amish tradition of Rumspringa. We also discuss the heatwaves and fires in California. To all our listeners in CA, make safe choices! 

Sep 09, 202049:37
#FreeBritney & Madeleine McCann

#FreeBritney & Madeleine McCann

It's our 75th episode! We have two surprise topics for you this week. First, Jane talks about the Free Britney movement (yes, as in Britney Spears). Sarah covers the disappearance of Madeleine McCann. If you have any information, please visit findmadeleine.com. 

Sep 02, 202001:21:22
Lantern Flies & Sally Hemings
Aug 26, 202001:00:46
Stem Cells & Natalie Wood

Stem Cells & Natalie Wood

Jane has returned! This week we finally present to you two controversial topics: stem cell research and the mysterious death of Natalie Wood. As Jane explains, stem cell research is causing some tension with the pro-lifers. Sarah shares the story of Natalie Wood's tragic and highly suspicious death in 1981. 

Aug 19, 202001:06:50
What's Going On in Lebanon (featuring Taylor Hunsberger)

What's Going On in Lebanon (featuring Taylor Hunsberger)

Please donate to help the citizens of Beirut at the following organizations: http://www.redcross.org.lb/index.aspx?pageid=907, https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/lebanon-relief?utm_term=re7R78DA2, https://donate.humanity-inclusion.org.uk/give/beirut-explosion/, or do a quick Google and pick an organization for yourself. 

A special episode this week! Jane could unfortunately not join us for our scheduled topics, so Sarah takes some time to explain what's going on in Lebanon. She is joined by our friend Taylor! We'll be back next week with Stem Cells & Natalie Wood.

Aug 12, 202035:56
5 Minute Crafts & Refugee Camps during COVID-19

5 Minute Crafts & Refugee Camps during COVID-19

To provide assistance to the 79 million displaced people around the world, please go to help.rescue.org/donate. This week we bring you a truly odd pairing. While the beginning of this episode is light-hearted and fun, and includes a birthday celebration for our host Jane, we hope all of you stay to hear what refugees are facing in the time of the coronavirus pandemic. This week, Jane explains the origins of 5 Minute Crafts. Sarah made a "Finish the Lyric" quiz for Jane's birthday featuring One Direction's strangest lyrics and we hope you play along! Sarah dives into the experience of refugees during a global pandemic. 

Aug 05, 202001:08:16
Freedom Riders & The Glasses Monopoly

Freedom Riders & The Glasses Monopoly

Dedicated in loving memory of John Lewis, may he Rest in Power. This week, Jane explains the goal of the Freedom Riders and their historic movement during the Civil Rights Era of the 1960s. Sarah also exposes the monopoly driving up the price of eyewear. Plus, what's that cube in front of the sun everyone is talking about?

Jul 29, 202046:50
HMS Bounty & The 14th Amendment

HMS Bounty & The 14th Amendment

There's nothing like some maritime drama to spice up your day. This week, Jane tells the story of the HMS Bounty and the mutiny that made it famous. Sarah explains the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment and its legal implications today. 

Jul 22, 202001:20:24
Hiroshima & Religious Hospitals

Hiroshima & Religious Hospitals

Welcome back to You Know What I've Been Wondering? This week, we get a little more serious. Jane explains how the US came to drop two atomic bombs on Japan. Then, Sarah shares the history of the relationship between religion and healthcare. Remember to keep thanking essential workers! We also have a bonus good news section. 

Jul 15, 202001:10:58
Myers-Briggs & Hamilton

Myers-Briggs & Hamilton

We know you waited for it, and now it's here - the digital release of Hamilton! Well, you know we love to ruin things people like. This week, Jane talks about the popular personality test Myers-Briggs. Sarah gives a short interlude featuring headlines from https://watchingamerica.com/ (check it out, Americans!) and then closes us out with a real look at Alexander Hamilton, the not-so-radical Founding Father. It is okay to find Hamilton entertaining and fun while acknowledging that our Founding Fathers were racist elitists! 

Jul 08, 202001:22:29
NRA & Yakuza

NRA & Yakuza

What's a more legitimate organized criminal enterprise - the Yakuza or the NRA? We'll let you decide! This week, Jane shares the innocent beginnings of the NRA to their transformation to a Super PAC. Sarah explains who the Yakuza are and what they do on the other side of the Pacific. Plus, we discuss a treasure hunt!

Jul 01, 202001:17:33
Incels & The Confederacy

Incels & The Confederacy

This week, we break down two systems: toxic masculinity and Southern Confederate pride. Jane explains "Incels" and their twisted logic. Sarah shares the history of the Confederate government, and why their statues are completely unnecessary. We continue to encourage our listeners to check out blacklivesmatter.com for resources. This pride month, we also want to encourage you to donate to organizations like The Okra Project, The Marsha P Johnson Institute, or any other organization helping black trans women.

Jun 24, 202001:03:01
Black Panthers & Pompeii

Black Panthers & Pompeii

As we continue to fight for the safety and wellbeing of black people in America, we want the topics we're educating ourselves on each week to reflect the world around us. This week, Jane talks about the real, vital history of the Black Panther movement in America. For a quick archaeology break, Sarah covers the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Jun 17, 202059:18
Podcast Blackout

Podcast Blackout

In an effort to take a definitive stance against police brutality and to show our solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement, this week we are joining other podcasts in putting ourselves on mute. We encourage our listeners to instead tune into black voices and take the hour you would’ve spent listening to our show to educate yourself on the violence towards black bodies going on in this country.
Jun 10, 202001:13
Standardized Test & Convicts in Australia
Jun 03, 202001:17:23
K-Pop & Romance Novels

K-Pop & Romance Novels

Part two of the double feature! Tired of all that STEM talk? Let's chat arts & humanities. This week, Jane explains the history of K-Pop and their dreamy Idols. Sarah tells the history of romance novels and why they're significant, not just silly reads for girls! 

May 27, 202058:44