Decoder Ring has a library of explainers on topics you may have never thought about

? EARS TO THE GROUND-

Decoder Ring gets to the bottom of it — “it” being a different cultural question, object, or habit which host Willa Paskin unravels to examine the history and explain why it matters.

With 71 episodes under her belt, and one released every week, there’s a large catalog for you to get started. Ranging from the aggravating lack of parking spots seemingly everywhere you go to the origins of the tooth fairy, each episode is a standalone giving something there for everyone.

Paskin really does her research, but her delivery is what makes the facts especially interesting. Topics you’ve never really thought about before will have you hanging on to every word of the 40-ish minute episodes — who knew the history of the mullet could be so interesting?

One of our favorite episodes is Tattoo Flash, where one of the producers goes over four stories about tattoos throughout time. He discusses preserved 19th century tattoos, a personal investigation into the Tasmanian Devil tattoo, a man who dedicated his tattoos to his love of Microsoft, and why Chinese characters are often mistranslated. The blend of anecdotal and historical discourse makes it especially pleasant to listen to without making it sound like a lecture.

You can listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music.