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Every episode
Forever Ago
30 episodes
Sneak peek: Hoax Hunters explain the Pokemon Shock
Aug 14, 2026 · 7 min
This is a sneak peek of a bonus episode available to Smarty Pass subscribers. It’s a follow up to the Forever Ago episode about the history of Pokemon. This time, Marc and Sanden are back as the Hoax Hunters to investigate a phenomenon known as the Pokemon Shock. It was an event where a TV show apparently made thousands of people feel sick. To hear the full episode, sign up for Smarty Pass and support the Brains On Universe.
Day in the Life: Ancient Rome
Aug 12, 2026 · 36 min
The Ancient Roman empire thrived over 2,000 years ago. You may have heard about gladiators, the Coliseum or leaders like Alexander the Great. But what was everyday life like for most people? Join Joy and co-host Charlie as they take a look back at life in Ancient Rome, from public bathhouses, to ordering take out. They’ll also talk to archaeologist Dr. Robyn Le Blanc about how historians know what life looked like thousands of years ago. Plus, a new First Things First about very ancient leaders.…
Who invented Pokémon?
Aug 5, 2026 · 32 min
Pokémon is a mega-smash hit around the world. There are TV shows, movies, card games, toys, and of course, video games. It all started with a boy who loved collecting bugs and playing video games. Join Joy and co-host Romil as they explore the history behind the series. Learn how it almost flopped, and how one special Pokémon (not Pikachu) helped save the franchise early on. Plus, a Japan-themed First Things First.Click here to read a transcript of this episode. Want to support the sho…
Forever Ago Season 9 starts August 5th!
Jul 31, 2026 · 3 min
Get ready to start historymaxxing because Forever Ago's latest season is back Wednesday, August 5th! We've got terrific new topics from Pizza, to Wizard of Oz-- even Pokémon. Make sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode. Can't wait to explore the before with you! Want to support the show? Join Smarty Pass to listen to ad-free episodes or donate!
How did soccer start?
May 13, 2026 · 27 min
Soccer is the most popular sport on the planet. But how did it get its start? And why do some people call it “soccer”, while others call it “football?” Hear the answers to these questions as Joy and co-host Brooke learn about the history of the sport, plus the story of the first ever World Cup. All that and a kickin’ First Things First. Goaaaal!Click here to read a transcript of this episode. Want to support the show? Join Smarty Pass to listen to ad-free episodes or donate!
Bird poop facials and toilet masks: Skin care of the past
May 6, 2026 · 27 min
There are so many trends in skin care, from fun-shaped pimple patches to Korean sheet masks. They might seem like the latest fad, but did you know some of these beauty treatments have been around for hundreds of years? Join Joy and co-host Roop as they look back through skin care history, from the fashionable beauty marks of the French aristocracy to bird poop facials in Japan. Plus, something called a toilet mask. All that and a new First Things First! If you want to learn more about puberty, c…
Why did it take so long for the U.S. to pick its national anthem?
Apr 29, 2026 · 31 min
It’s super common for a country to have a national anthem. That’s an official song that is sung at special events and is supposed to bring people together. The United States of America’s anthem is called The Star Spangled Banner. But it took a long time, and a lot of contests, to choose that song. Join Joy and co-host Freya as they learn the history of this famously hard to sing song. Plus they tackle an all new First Things First. Guest: Billy Coleman, Associate Director of the Kinder Institute…
From Skibidi to Slay: The stories behind slang
Apr 22, 2026 · 32 min
Skibidi, rizz and slay are examples of slang. Slang words are fun, zippy terms that usually spread from one small group of people, to the entire world. This week Joy and co-host Dax explore the unexpected history of a few different slang words, from a recluse poet, to the lively ballroom scene in New York City. Plus a First Things First to win mad aura. Libbidity gibbletz, you won’t wanna miss this!Click here to read a transcript of this episode. Want to support the show? Join Smarty Pass to lis…
The Titanic was called unsinkable, so why did it sink?
Apr 15, 2026 · 30 min
The Titanic sank only four days into its voyage. Even though the ship was lost to the ocean, the history and stories survived. Join Joy and her co-host Juniper as they find out how this mega ship was built, hear some theories on why it sank, and learn how the history of this voyage was preserved by dedicated historians. Featured Expert: Ross Mumford is a Titanic researcher, historian and educator. He currently manages Titanic: the Exhibit. Click here to read a transcript of this episode. Want to…
Daylight Saving: The surprising story behind why we change our clocks
Ep 5 · Apr 8, 2026 · 28 min
Twice a year, many countries move their clocks by an hour. But why? It turns out humans have been messing with minutes and hours for centuries. Join Joy and co-host Rehema as they explore the history of Daylight Saving, from a bug hunter who wanted more daylight for collecting insects to a World War where every hour of light was precious.Find our Brains On episode about the science behind Daylight Saving Time here or wherever you get your podcasts!Click here to read a transcript of this episode.…
From sickness to sweetness: the story of Candy Land
Ep 4 · Apr 1, 2026 · 25 min
Candy Land is iconic. The cute characters, the simple rules, it’s the perfect game for kids of all ages. But it all started as a way to cheer up children stuck in the hospital. Learn how this game was invented when a teacher needed a way to help kids recovering from Polio. Plus, Joy and co-host Ava take a Candy Land quiz with Gumpy, the gum sculpture that came to life.Click here to read a transcript of this episode. Want to support the show? Join Smarty Pass to listen to ad-free episodes or dona…
How diamonds became the symbol of love
Ep 3 · Mar 25, 2026 · 26 min
Today, it’s almost cliche to give someone a diamond ring to prove your love. But 100 years ago, that wasn’t the case. Back then, diamonds were seen as luxury items for the rich and famous. But thanks to some creative advertisers (and a whole lot of extra diamonds), these sparkly jewels became the symbol of love in much of the world. Join Joy and co-host Diya as they explore the enchanting history of diamonds. Click here to read a transcript of this episode. Want to support the show? Join Smarty…
Why are they called Teddy Bears?
Ep 2 · Mar 18, 2026 · 25 min
Do you have a favorite stuffed animal? Maybe it’s a unicorn, or an axolotl, or a classic stuffed bear. Whatever it is, you can thank a former U.S. President for helping make stuffies a thing. Join Joy and co-host Luke as they learn about the origins of the Teddy Bear and find out about a stuffed possum that should’ve been the next big toy craze, but never caught on. Plus another round of First Things First.Click here to read a transcript of this episode. Want to support the show? Join Smarty Pas…
First Things First Spectacular
Ep 1 · Mar 11, 2026 · 38 min
We’re so thrilled to be back that we’re celebrating with a very special episode. It’s a First Things First Spectacular! We’ll be playing three different rounds of the game where we put things in the order they came in history. We’ve brought in three history experts and three kid co-hosts to help. So strap on your history hats and get ready for a fact-tastic time!Click here to read a transcript of this episode. Want to support the show? Join Smarty Pass to listen to ad-free episodes or donate! Se…
Forever Ago Season 8 is coming!!!
Mar 4, 2026 · 1 min
Get ready to explore the before... some more! That's right, a brand new season of Forever Ago is around the corner. Tell your friends! Let your enemies know by sending them a cryptic message 🎧🕰️ ⒻⒶ🔙🔜 🕰️🎧 Leak it to the press! The first episode drops March 11, and it's a doozy - an all First Things First episode. Make sure you're subscribed, so you won't miss a thing. Want to listen to Forever Ago without the ads? Sign up for Smarty Pass, and you'll get ad-free versions of Forever Ago, Brai…
Forever Ago is coming back and we want your help
Dec 4, 2025 · 1 min
Woooohooooo and historical HUZZAH! We are coming back next spring and can't wait for you to hear all that we have planned. Now that Forever Ago and the entire Brains On Universe are independent, we need your support more than ever. We make the show for you, and we can't make it without you. Help us make this the best season yet, and subscribe to Smarty Pass. You get ad-free versions of Forever Ago, Brains On, Smash Boom Best and Moment of Um. There are also discounts on live events and merch, pl…
We’re back! Brains On Universe has a new headquarters
Oct 8, 2025 · 8 min
We’re back! We’ve officially moved into our new headquarters! Come unpack with us and get a tour while we fill you in on some big news. Plus, new episodes of Brains On coming later this month and new Smash Boom and Forever Ago after that. If you want to support the show or drop us a line, head to brainson.org. The best way to keep us going is to join Smarty Pass or donate here: https://brainson.supercast.com. Thank you! See Smash Boom Best LIVE in Princeton, NJ! Join us at the McCarter Theatre f…
A big update about Forever Ago and the Brains On Universe
Jun 11, 2025 · 4 min
We're moving the Brains On Universe Headquarters, and that means we have to stop putting out new episodes until we get settled. We know: not cool. But, our new home is going to be bigger and better and the absolute BEST. We can't wait until it's ready for you to visit. In the meantime, we still have some live shows planned this fall. Brains On Live will be in Dallas, TX on September 13. And Smash Boom Best will bring the debate heat to Princeton, NJ on October 26. Head over to brainson.org/event…
Where did school uniforms come from?
Jun 10, 2025 · 35 min
Our world is filled with uniforms. From mail carriers, to sports teams to students! This week, Joy, cohost Hannah and Articles of Interest’s Avery Trufelman trace the history of school uniforms, from their start 800 years ago in England, to their popularization in America by immigrants. We’ll also dive into the pros and cons of uniforms and hear from listeners about their thoughts. Plus, a fashionable First Things First!Avery Trufelman hosts Articles of Interest, a podcast about what we wear. Se…
Josephine Baker: Diva and WWII spy!
Jun 4, 2025 · 34 min
Joy and co-host Obasi are so obsessed with historical spycraft that they become top secret spies! Their mission, should they choose to accept it: investigate the life of superstar Josephine Baker.Josephine danced and sang on the biggest stages of Europe in 1920s and 30s — and fell in love with France. In fact, she loved the people of France so much that she was willing to risk her life as a spy during World War II. Her story has everything: coded messages written in invisible ink, dangerous miss…
Play ball! The first team sport
May 28, 2025 · 31 min
Today, sports are popular all over the world! But have you ever wondered what the first team sport was? This week, Joy and cohost Xenia learn all about the Mesoamerican Ball Game, which is more than 3,000 years old! And they meet someone who is still playing today! Plus, a game of first things first that you won’t ball-lieve!This episode was sponsored by:Disney - Experience Disney's Elio, only in theaters June 20. Rated PG, parental guidance suggested. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inf…
Smarty Pass Bonus: First Things For Shizzle
May 26, 2025 · 3 min
Joy is a real cool customer. How cool? Well, let’s just say she regularly sleeps in feline PJs, aka the cat’s pajamas. Cat’s pajamas are slang for something being really cool. To prove how much slang she knows, Joy plays a game of First Things First featuring some of her favorite slang terms. Only the coolest kids can win the game, daddy-o. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How did the Girl Scouts get started?
May 21, 2025 · 34 min
Joy is so excited to be going on her first big camping trip, but she needs help – STAT! How do you put up a tent, anyway? And how do you make perfect, ooey gooey s’mores?! Luckily, her Girl Scout buddy and cohost Flora is here to help!Join Joy and Flora on their camping trip, while they explore the history of the Girl Scouts! This super popular group teaches girls all kinds of skills, from managing money to how to be a good friend. Over a million girls across the U.S. are members – but how did t…
Where does maple syrup come from?
May 14, 2025 · 28 min
Today’s episode is all about the best breakfast topping, the sap that slaps…maple syrup! If you’ve ever had maple syrup on your pancakes or waffles, you have the Native people of what’s now called North America to thank for that. Native people have been making maple syrup for hundreds, if not thousands of years. Tag along with Joy and cohost Marvin as they explain how syrup is made. Minnesota Public Radio reporter Chandra Colvin also drops by to share how Native communities continue this centuri…
Forever Ago is on Spring Break this week! Enjoy this saucy showdown from our friends at Smash Boom Best!
May 7, 2025 · 34 min
Forever Ago is on Spring Break this week! We’ll be back next week with a brand new episode all about the magic of maple syrup. In the meantime, enjoy this saucy showdown from our friends at Smash Boom Best!Today’s debate is a captivating clash of two condiments. It’s Ketchup vs. Ranch! We’ve got comedian and writer Devohn Bland here to defend team Ranch and voice actor Merk Nguyen ready to fight for Ketchup! Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Vote below for the team YOU think won! See omny…
OOO, AHHHH! The history of fireworks
Apr 30, 2025 · 28 min
Fireworks dazzle us on special holidays, at flashy concerts and during some big public events (National Mr. Potatohead Day anyone?). But did you know people have been using fireworks to celebrate for centuries? This week Joy and cohost Elliott learn about how firecrackers started with exploding bamboo in ancient China and how a couple of monks accidentally invented gunpowder. All this, plus an explosive new round of First Things First. Featured Experts: Dr. Haiwang Yuan is a writer, translator,…
How teens invented the Native Youth Olympics
Apr 23, 2025 · 32 min
Forever ago is back with a brand new episode all about the Native Youth Olympics! Join Joy and cohost Ali to learn all about how a group of students in Alaska started a sporting event that today has hundreds of participants! Plus, a brand new game of First Things First!Featured Experts:Nicole Johnson is the Head Official at the Native Youth Olympics in Anchorage, Alaska. She is also an instructor and former athlete of the games.Resources:Want to learn more about the Native Youth Olympics?You can…
The birth of Bollywood movies
Apr 16, 2025 · 30 min
Millions of people around the world love to watch the magical, musical, dance-filled films from India. The industry is nicknamed Bollywood. And its roots go back over 100 years, to a silent, black and white movie made by a man named Dadasaheb Phalke. Join Joy and co-host Senna as they explore the life of this pioneering filmmaker, while excavating an ancient video rental store. Plus a binge-worthy First Things First! This episode is brought to you by Greenlight! Help your kids learn to earn, sav…
The history and mystery of mayonnaise
Apr 8, 2025 · 33 min
Host Joy Dolo loves the listeners of Forever Ago – but does she love them enough to do an episode about her nemesis MAYONNAISE??? Yes, yes she does. Joy faces down her least favorite food to learn about the origins of this very popular condiment, and co-host Maya calls in Splendid Table’s Francis Lam to help Joy open her mind to mayo. Plus, a gloopy game of First Things First! This episode is brought to you by Greenlight! Help your kids learn to earn, save, spend wisely, and invest with Greenlig…
No Fooling! Forever Ago is back April 9th!
Apr 1, 2025 · 28 min
Hey Forever Ago friends! Happy April Fools Day! We’re so excited to be back in your ears with brand new episodes next week, on April 9th! No fooling, we promise!! But we are celebrating by re-releasing our episode all about the history of April Fools Day. Happy Pranking! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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