Recommended Episode
The United Steaks of America
Why does every summer holiday smell like meat on a grill? In this episode, we dive into the smoky, sacred world of the American backyard barbecue. From ritual timing t...
Latest Episodes
Aromatic Folklore: The Pumpkin Spice Effect
When the air still feels like July but the store shelves smell like October, you know it’s happened: the pumpkin spice has returned. But why does that scent and that f...
The Tradition of Shared Mourning
When tragedy strikes, we don’t grieve alone. We light candles, stand in silence, leave flowers, and gather in public places: turning private sorrow into shared ritual....
The Pittsburgh Left: Driving Neighborly in the Neighborhood
The Pittsburgh Left: where courtesy outruns the rulebook. Discover how this neighborly traffic quirk became folklore - and why Mr. Rogers would’ve waved you through.
Birthday Cake, Moon Magic, and Flaming Wishes
Why do we put fire on cake, make a wish, and then blow lung air all over dessert? From moon goddesses to magical forcefields to Betty Crocker, birthday cake has a surp...
Rituals of the Rind
There you are, standing in the grocery store, surrounded by bins of green watermelons. You knock. You thump. You lift one like it’s a newborn and whisper, “Are you the...