Purposeless Assesments

In episode 7 of  Purposeless Assessments , we dive into the curious origins of the phrase “riding shotgun” and how it evolved from a position of survival in the Wild West to a playful tradition for claiming the front seat in modern cars. The term originated during the days of stagecoach travel, when an armed guard sat beside the driver, ready with a shotgun to defend the coach from bandits. This c...

In episode 6 of  Purposeless Assessments , we explore a topic that’s near and dear to everyone’s weekly routine—laundry! Specifically, we tackle the question: Can you really wash your clothes in cold water? Our host takes us through the science, history, and practicalities of cold water washing, busting the myth that hot water is essential for clean clothes. With modern detergents and advanced was...

In episode 5 of  Purposeless Assessments , we dive into a question most of us have probably never thought to ask: Why does foil exist on pill bottles? While it might seem like a small, everyday annoyance, that thin layer of foil plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and freshness of your medication. Known as an induction seal, it acts as a tamper-evident barrier that protects your pills from...

In episode 4 of  Purposeless Assessments , we embark on an exciting journey to uncover the location of the largest pyramid in the world. While most people immediately think of Egypt’s Great Pyramid of Giza, this episode reveals that the title of the largest pyramid by volume actually belongs to the Great Pyramid of Cholula, hidden in plain sight in Cholula, Puebla, Mexico. Known as Tlachihualtepet...

In episode 3 of "Purposeless Assessments," we explore a paradoxical and intriguing topic—Cherophobia, the fear of happiness. In a world where everyone seems to chase joy, some individuals experience anxiety at the very thought of it. Our host breaks down what Cherophobia is, why it occurs, and how it affects those who experience it. From its roots in past trauma and cultural beliefs to the...

In episode 2 of "Purposeless Assessments," we explore the surprisingly important gaps in bridges, known as expansion joints. These small separations in bridge structures might seem trivial, but they play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of bridges worldwide. Our host breaks down how these joints allow for the expansion and contraction of materials due to temperature changes, ensur...

In the first episode of "Purposeless Assessments," we take on one of the most common yet fascinating questions—why is the sky blue? Our host breaks down the science behind this everyday phenomenon, diving into the world of light scattering, atmospheric particles, and the history of this intriguing mystery. Listeners will discover how blue light, with its shorter wavelengths, scatters more...