Sometimes all it takes is one little fact or one little piece of wisdom to change your life forever. That's the purpose and the hope of "Something You Should Know." In each episode, host Mike Carruthers interviews top experts in their field to bring you fascinating information and advice to help you save time and money, advance in your career, become wealthy, improve your relationships and help you simply get more out of life. In addition, Mike uncovers and shares short, engaging pieces of "intel" you can use to make your life better - today. Right now.
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Sep 29, 2026 · 24:16
Who doesn’t like a bit of juicy gossip? We tend to think gossip is petty, mean or something we probably shouldn’t be doing. Yet practically everyone gossips—and it turns out…
Sep 28, 2026 · 48:42
If you’ve ever tried to look at your phone while wearing sunglasses and found the screen strangely dark—or even completely black—there’s a fascinating reason why. And you don’t…
Sep 26, 2026 · 49:34
How is your posture right now? If your shoulders are slouched, you may be sending a message to other people that you never intended to send. Your shoulders can communicate…
Sep 24, 2026 · 48:44
When someone gets a nosebleed, what are you supposed to do? Many of us learned that you should tilt your head back. That’s not a good idea. There are a couple of key actions to…
Sep 22, 2026 · 25:02
Someone says nine wonderful things about you and one negative thing. Which one are you still thinking about hours later? Probably the negative one. Bad experiences, criticism and…
Sep 21, 2026 · 49:05
Why do your fingers and toes sometimes feel freezing cold when the rest of you feels perfectly comfortable? It’s actually your body doing something very deliberate to protect…
Sep 19, 2026 · 46:21
We have become much more of a cashless society in the last few years. That turns out to be a good thing because cash is really disgusting. Listen as I explain just how disgusting…
Sep 17, 2026 · 49:02
Certain smells can instantly transport you back to another time and place — sometimes more vividly than a photograph ever could. Why is your sense of smell so closely tied to…
Sep 15, 2026 · 23:25
Why does time seem to move faster and faster the older you get? Summers that once felt endless suddenly seem to disappear in a flash. There are some intriguing theories about why…
Sep 14, 2026 · 49:29
Why do leaves turn such spectacular colors every fall? It seems as if the green simply changes to red, orange or yellow — but that isn’t quite what happens. There is a lot more…
Sep 12, 2026 · 49:46
Some very popular drinks can do a surprising amount of damage to your teeth. Which ones are the worst offenders? This episode begins with what certain drinks do to your tooth…
Sep 10, 2026 · 48:08
When the power goes out, how long will food in your refrigerator and freezer stay safe? And how bad is it to open the door and check? Consumer Reports has some useful answers…
Sep 8, 2026 · 27:19
Why do you believe some people almost immediately, while others make you skeptical? You might assume credibility comes down to expertise, experience and having the facts on your…
Sep 7, 2026 · 48:33
Have you ever been completely stuck trying to solve a problem or come up with a new idea? There is a remarkably simple thing you can do that research shows can get your creative…
Sep 5, 2026 · 48:33
Eye contact can be tricky. Too little can make you seem bored or distracted. Too much can get uncomfortable fast. So what is the right amount? This episode begins with some…
Sep 3, 2026 · 49:34
Want to significantly improve your chances of getting a good night’s sleep? There is one surprisingly simple thing you can do during the day that may actually help you sleep…
Sep 1, 2026 · 23:23
Processed food has gotten a pretty terrible reputation. We’re warned to avoid foods with long ingredient lists, mysterious additives and chemical names we can’t pronounce.…
Aug 31, 2026 · 50:44
Ever notice that the trip home often seems shorter than the trip there—even when the distance and travel time are exactly the same? It happens so often that researchers have…
Aug 29, 2026 · 49:13
You probably know that light, noise, temperature and stress can all interfere with your sleep. But what about the moon? Strange as it sounds, some research suggests people really…
Aug 27, 2026 · 46:47
If you have a goal you really want to accomplish, when you start may matter more than you think. January 1st gets all the attention, but there are other dates and occasions that…
Aug 25, 2026 · 24:04
It seems like paying attention should be easy. Yet for many of us, it has become one of the hardest things to do. We start reading an article and suddenly we're checking email.…
Aug 24, 2026 · 50:10
Have you ever caught yourself saying, "It smells like rain"? It turns out that distinctive scent is very real—and it's not your imagination. Scientists know exactly where it…
Aug 22, 2026 · 48:20
Most people think dogs see the world only in black and white—but that's simply not true. Dogs do see color, just not the same colors you do. Understanding how your dog actually…
Aug 20, 2026 · 49:48
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to lose their hearing gradually while insisting they hear just fine? It turns out this isn't simply denial or stubbornness. The way…
Aug 18, 2026 · 23:26
Most of us think of intelligence as something that happens entirely in the brain. But there's another kind of intelligence that lives in your body. It's what allows you to ride a…
Aug 17, 2026 · 50:24
Heat can make people do some strange things. It can change your mood, cloud your judgment, and even affect the way you treat other people. Scientists have discovered that hot…
Aug 15, 2026 · 54:40
Ever wonder why you're always told to wait about 10 seconds before turning your phone, computer, router, or tablet back on after rebooting it? Is there really something magical…
Aug 13, 2026 · 49:11
Humans are remarkably bad at predicting how long something will take. Whether it's a home project, a work assignment, or even a quick trip across town, we almost always…
Aug 11, 2026 · 19:22
Anyone who has ever owned a dog has probably wondered what goes on inside that furry little head. Does your dog feel guilty after chewing up your favorite shoes? Does it know…
Aug 10, 2026 · 50:06
When you're hungry, you know you're more interested in food. But hunger also changes the way you think—and the effects can spill over into decisions that have nothing to do with…
Aug 8, 2026 · 52:28
Does your signature reveal more about you than just your name? It turns out the way you sign your name may influence what people assume about your personality, confidence, and…
Aug 6, 2026 · 45:55
Walk through a crowded airport or packed stadium and something remarkable happens. Thousands of people weave around each other without collisions, almost as if everyone is…
Aug 4, 2026 · 21:59
Some mysteries have been solved by science. Others remain surprisingly stubborn. Despite all our advances in technology and research, there are still questions that continue to…
Aug 3, 2026 · 48:30
Ever notice how your face turns bright red when you're embarrassed—and makes the whole situation even worse? As awkward as blushing feels, it isn't a design flaw. It's actually…
Aug 1, 2026 · 47:24
Have you ever met someone named Lucy and thought, "She really looks like a Lucy"? As strange as it sounds, scientists have discovered there may be more truth to that feeling than…
Jul 30, 2026 · 50:20
Stores and restaurants don't just play music to fill the silence. The tempo, volume, and even the style of music are often carefully chosen because they can quietly influence…
Jul 28, 2026 · 26:08
Most of us spend a lot of time trying to be happy and avoiding sadness whenever we can. But what if sadness isn't something to fear or eliminate? What if it's one of the most…
Jul 27, 2026 · 49:03
Most of us think we're pretty good drivers. But even experienced drivers develop bad habits without realizing it. Fortunately, a few simple adjustments can make you a safer, more…
Jul 25, 2026 · 49:35
Why do mosquitoes seem to feast on some people while barely bothering others? It turns out your attractiveness to mosquitoes has much less to do with "sweet blood" than with your…
Jul 23, 2026 · 49:32
If your porch light seems to attract every moth and flying insect in the neighborhood, you're not imagining it. Scientists have finally figured out why artificial lights are so…
Jul 21, 2026 · 23:25
Few foods are as American as the hamburger. Every year, Americans eat billions of them, and they are a staple at backyard barbecues, diners, ballparks, and restaurants around the…
Jul 20, 2026 · 49:49
Take a look at your speedometer the next time you're driving. Chances are, it's lying to you. The speed you're actually traveling is probably different from what the dashboard…
Jul 18, 2026 · 51:32
Can simply believing a treatment will work actually help it work better? Surprisingly, yes. Researchers have found that your expectations can have a powerful effect on how your…
Jul 16, 2026 · 49:49
Have you ever pushed on a door that was supposed to be pulled—or pulled when you should have pushed? It feels embarrassing, but don't blame yourself. It turns out the problem…
Jul 14, 2026 · 25:24
What does it really mean to be successful? Most people would probably say it's about making more money, climbing the career ladder, earning recognition, or becoming well known.…
Jul 13, 2026 · 50:56
Need a favor? The way you ask may matter as much as what you're asking for. Researchers have found that a few simple changes in how you make a request can dramatically increase…
Jul 11, 2026 · 51:55
Have you ever forgotten a phone number, birthday, or why you walked into a room because you knew your phone would remember it for you? Many people joke about "digital dementia."…
Jul 9, 2026 · 49:26
Many ballpoint pens have a particular design feature intended to save your life – if necessary. It's one of those clever features most people never notice and hopefully never…
Jul 7, 2026 · 25:14
Can you train yourself to become a night owl—or an early bird? Millions of people try. They force themselves to stay up later, wake up earlier, or work overnight because that's…
Jul 6, 2026 · 48:43
People often assume that someone with brown eyes appears more trustworthy than someone with blue eyes. Research suggests there may be something to that belief—but not for the…
Jul 4, 2026 · 51:25
The lottery is one of the few games where everyone knows the odds are terrible—and millions of people play anyway. Why? It turns out there are some fascinating psychological…
Jul 2, 2026 · 49:13
Nothing can ruin a meal faster than someone loudly slurping soup, coffee, or noodles. At least that's what many people think. Yet in some cultures, slurping isn't rude at…
Jun 30, 2026 · 26:03
With all of the recent excitement surrounding the NBA & Stanley Cup finals and the World Cup you might wonder why do millions of people spend hours every week watching sports?…
Jun 29, 2026 · 47:26
Ever notice when you hear someone talking on the phone nearby it’s hard not to listen? You are only hearing one-side of the conversation and that can drive your brain crazy. It’s…
Jun 27, 2026 · 50:11
A great burger looks simple—but barbecue experts know there is a surprising amount of science and technique behind getting it just right. From choosing the meat to handling the…
Jun 25, 2026 · 48:26
Why do mosquitoes seem to love some people and completely ignore others? It isn't your imagination. Researchers have identified several factors that make certain people…
Jun 23, 2026 · 24:45
Have you ever bought something because it was "almost sold out" or because a sale was ending at midnight? If so, you're not alone. Scarcity is one of the most powerful forces…
Jun 22, 2026 · 46:46
Most people have heard of the "dark web," but what exactly is it? Is it really a hidden corner of the internet where criminals and bad actors operate beyond the reach of law…
Jun 20, 2026 · 47:10
Most arguments seem to be about just one thing: money, chores, politics, parenting, work, or whatever sparked the disagreement. But according to experts in conflict resolution,…
Jun 18, 2026 · 50:49
When you visit a doctor, you assume the diagnosis and treatment will be based entirely on your symptoms and medical history. But there is another factor that can quietly…
Jun 16, 2026 · 21:28
What if becoming smarter had less to do with intelligence and more to do with a handful of everyday habits? Researchers are discovering that many of the things that most…
Jun 15, 2026 · 49:38
Most parents think the key to getting kids to eat healthy food is explaining why it's healthy. Unfortunately, research suggests that strategy can backfire spectacularly. In fact,…
Jun 13, 2026 · 48:00
Have you ever held a pet up to a mirror and wondered why they don't seem to recognize themselves? Humans usually figure it out very young, but most animals never do. Yet a…
Jun 11, 2026 · 47:33
Every medication has an expiration date—but what exactly happens when that date passes? Does the medicine suddenly stop working? Does it become dangerous? The answer is more…
Jun 9, 2026 · 26:59
Most people think they're good listeners. After all, they stay quiet, make eye contact, and let the other person finish speaking. But truly connecting with someone requires more…
Jun 8, 2026 · 48:18
That little white folded box Chinese takeout comes in may be one of the cleverest pieces of food packaging ever invented. What’s funny is—it isn’t Chinese at all. It was never…
Jun 6, 2026 · 50:09
Most people think of romantic music as background noise for dates, movies, or weddings. But researchers have found that music can actually influence romantic behavior and…
Jun 4, 2026 · 46:46
People will go to ridiculous lengths to avoid paying fees. Adding extra items to an online order just to get “free” shipping. Avoiding ATM fees like they’re a personal insult. Or…
Jun 2, 2026 · 25:03
Fear can save your life—or quietly ruin it.. Fear keeps you alert, helps you avoid danger, and in many situations can literally save your life. Without fear, humans probably…
Jun 1, 2026 · 51:37
Dog owners tend to live longer and be healthier than people without dogs. But why would owning a dog have such a powerful effect on your health? The answer turns out to be…
May 30, 2026 · 49:23
Most people assume being rich would solve almost every problem in life. More freedom. Less stress. More happiness. But psychologists who work with wealthy families say…
May 28, 2026 · 50:21
“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” We’ve all heard it countless times. But where did that idea come from—and is it actually true? Researchers have taken a much…
May 26, 2026 · 28:21
Humans are social creatures, and one of our strongest instincts is to fit in with the group. We want to belong. We want approval. And often, we assume that if enough people…
May 25, 2026 · 49:27
A lot of people treat melatonin like a harmless sleeping pill. But that’s not really what it is. Researchers are increasingly concerned that melatonin is misunderstood, overused,…
May 23, 2026 · 50:03
The sound of crickets on a warm summer night is instantly recognizable. But the tiny creatures making all that noise are far more fascinating than most people realize. Crickets…
May 21, 2026 · 51:18
People love giving advice—but most of the time, it doesn’t actually change anyone’s behavior. In fact, there’s a much more effective way to influence people that works far better…
May 19, 2026 · 27:43
Most of us can point to someone who truly inspired us—a teacher, boss, coach, friend, or public figure who made us think differently, push harder, or believe more in ourselves.…
May 18, 2026 · 47:18
Most recipes tell you to preheat the oven before cooking. But why? Wouldn’t it save time to just let the food cook while the oven heats up? There’s actually a very good reason…
May 16, 2026 · 51:36
“Your call is very important to us.” Companies say things like this all the time in an effort to sound customer-focused and trustworthy. But do phrases like that actually…
May 14, 2026 · 49:34
Most credit cards have that little 3- or 4-digit security code you constantly get asked for when shopping online. It can feel like a nuisance—but that tiny number plays a…
May 12, 2026 · 28:28
What if your experience of reality isn’t real—but something your brain is creating? And what does it really mean to be you? It sounds abstract, even a little out there. But…
May 11, 2026 · 49:05
Have you ever struggled with a problem—only to have the answer suddenly appear when you stopped trying? It feels almost like magic, but it’s actually your brain working in a very…
May 9, 2026 · 50:51
When buying a car, color might seem like a purely personal choice. But it turns out that picking a less popular color could actually pay off later in a surprising way—especially…
May 7, 2026 · 49:03
We often hear that we’re all connected by six degrees of separation—that you can link yourself to anyone on the planet through just a handful of people. But with billions of…
May 5, 2026 · 26:43
For a lot of people, the idea of negotiating feels uncomfortable—something to avoid if possible. It can feel confrontational, awkward, or even risky. But what if negotiating…
May 4, 2026 · 49:05
Ever feel your phone buzz in your pocket—only to check and find nothing there? It feels completely real, and it happens to just about everyone. But it’s not your phone—it’s your…
May 2, 2026 · 51:18
If you ever feel a wave of anxiety or that vague sense of dread, your first instinct probably isn’t to reach for a pain reliever. But there’s evidence that something you already…
Apr 30, 2026 · 48:02
What makes someone—or something—attractive? It may have less to do with beauty and more to do with how easily your brain can process what you’re seeing. There’s a hidden pattern…
Apr 28, 2026 · 25:03
Being a little skeptical can feel smart. After all, cynics pride themselves on “seeing things as they really are”—not getting fooled, not trusting too easily. But is that…
Apr 27, 2026 · 48:11
What if you followed people for 80 years—tracking their health, happiness, and relationships over a lifetime? That’s exactly what one of the longest-running studies ever has…
Apr 25, 2026 · 49:44
When you buy fruits and vegetables, how much pesticide residue is actually on them? Is it something you should worry about—or not? And does buying organic really make a…
Apr 23, 2026 · 49:08
Cravings can feel almost impossible to resist—whether it’s something sweet, salty, or just tempting in the moment. Yet, there is a simple and somehow satisfying way to stop…
Apr 21, 2026 · 25:01
You probably laugh every day—at something someone says, a scene in a show, or a random moment that just hits you the right way. But have you ever stopped to wonder why something…
Apr 20, 2026 · 48:31
Choosing between two options can feel straightforward. Add a third—and suddenly the decision gets harder. Add more, and it can become overwhelming. There’s a surprising reason…
Apr 18, 2026 · 54:09
Talking on the phone while driving seems harmless—after all, you can talk to passengers just fine. So why is phone use so much more dangerous? There’s something subtle happening…
Apr 16, 2026 · 50:33
When updating your resume or LinkedIn profile, it’s tempting to use words that make you sound impressive—terms like “world-class” or “team player.” But hiring managers often see…
Apr 14, 2026 · 24:45
Most people assume they’re safe—at home, out in public, going about their normal routine. But how often do you actually think about what you would do if that sense of safety was…
Apr 13, 2026 · 48:02
Most people think they’re good drivers. But there’s one simple thing you can do—or not do—that has a surprisingly big impact on how well you drive. It takes almost no effort, yet…
Apr 11, 2026 · 48:36
Where do you do your best thinking? It’s probably not where you spend most of your time working. In fact, the environment you choose can quietly influence how clearly you think,…
Apr 9, 2026 · 48:20
Your name is one of the first things people learn about you—but it may also influence how they judge you. Research suggests that people with names that are harder to pronounce…
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