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Continuing their examination of Harlan Ellison, Rachel Teichman, LCSW, and Victor Varnado, KSN, return for Part 2 to cover more of Ellison’s controversies and trouble with the law. Ellison’s impact on speculative fiction is undeniable, and his outspoken nature only deepened his mystique. An unapologetically bold end to a fascinating figure’s story.Produced and hosted by Victor Varnado & Rachel TeichmanFull Wikipedia article https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harlan_Ellison#Controversies_and_disputesSubscribe to our new newsletter, WikiWeekly at https://newsletter.wikilisten.com/ for a fun fact every week to feel smart and impress your friends, and MORE! https://www.patreon.com/wikilistenpodcastFind us on social media!https://www.facebook.com/WikiListenInstagram @WikiListenTwitter @Wiki_ListenGet bonus content on Patreon

Kicking off a two-part deep dive, Victor Varnado, KSN, and Rachel Teichman, LCSW, begin exploring the life of prolific science fiction author Harlan Ellison. Known for his fiery personality and genre-defying work, Ellison challenged norms in both literature and television. This first installment touches on his early career, notable short stories, and litigious tendencies. From "I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream" to his bold TV contributions, Ellison’s legacy starts unfolding here.Produced and hosted by Victor Varnado & Rachel TeichmanFull Wikipedia article here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harlan_Ellison#Controversies_and_disputesSubscribe to our new newsletter, WikiWeekly at https://newsletter.wikilisten.com/ for a fun fact every week to feel smart and impress your friends, and MORE!  https://www.patreon.com/wikilistenpodcastFind us on social media!https://www.facebook.com/WikiListenInstagram @WikiListenTwitter @Wiki_ListenGet bonus content on Patreon

Rachel Teichman, LCSW, and Victor Varnado, KSN, explore the cultural roots and social impact of "playing the dozens"—a verbal sparring game of witty insults. The episode traces the tradition’s influence on modern-day comedy, battle rap, and everyday banter. You’ll also learn about its African-American origins and how it's both a bonding and competitive exercise. A clever and historical ride through the power of words.Full Wikipedia here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dozens_(game)Subscribe to our new newsletter, WikiWeekly at https://newsletter.wikilisten.com/ for a fun fact every week to feel smart and impress your friends, and MORE! https://www.patreon.com/wikilistenpodcastFind us on social media!https://www.facebook.com/WikiListenInstagram @WikiListenTwitter @Wiki_ListenYoutubeGet bonus content on Patreon

Victor Varnado, KSN, and Rachel Teichman, LCSW, dive into the hybrid world of Baby Pac-Man, a unique arcade game that combined video gaming with pinball mechanics. This 1982 title broke the mold by offering gameplay that seamlessly shifted between a digital maze and a physical pinball table. The episode explores how the game was both innovative and controversial among arcade owners. Discover how Baby Pac-Man fit into the broader Pac-Man legacy in this quirky walkthrough of retro gaming history.Produced and hosted by Victor Varnado & Rachel TeichmanFull Wikipedia article here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baby_Pac-ManSubscribe to our new newsletter, WikiWeekly at https://newsletter.wikilisten.com/ for a fun fact every week to feel smart and impress your friends, and MORE! https://www.patreon.com/wikilistenpodcastFind us on social media!https://www.facebook.com/WikiListenInstagram @WikiListenTwitter @Wiki_ListenGet bonus content on Patreon

Rachel Teichman, LCSW, and Victor Varnado, KSN, click through the quirky digital attachment known as the Tamagotchi Effect. This psychological phenomenon describes the emotional bond people form with virtual pets and even robots. First sparked by the late-'90s toy craze, the effect has implications for our growing relationships with AI and technology. It's a nostalgic yet timely look at how tech tugs on our heartstrings.Produced and hosted by Victor Varnado & Rachel TeichmanFull Wikipedia article https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamagotchi_effectSubscribe to our new newsletter, WikiWeekly at https://newsletter.wikilisten.com/ for a fun fact every week to feel smart and impress your friends, and MORE! https://www.patreon.com/wikilistenpodcastFind us on social media!https://www.facebook.com/WikiListenInstagram @WikiListenTwitter @Wiki_ListenGet bonus content on Patreon

Get ready to fidget as Victor Varnado, KSN, and Rachel Teichman, LCSW, pop into the viral toy sensation known as "Pop It." They trace the toy’s rise to fame through TikTok trends and pandemic boredom. Originally patented in 1975, it took decades for the toy to hit mainstream popularity. Whether you've used one for stress relief or just enjoy the satisfying pops, this episode is a tactile treat.Produced and hosted by Victor Varnado & Rachel TeichmanFull Wikipedia article here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pop_itSubscribe to our new newsletter, WikiWeekly at https://newsletter.wikilisten.com/ for a fun fact every week to feel smart and impress your friends, and MORE!  https://www.patreon.com/wikilistenpodcastFind us on social media!https://www.facebook.com/WikiListenInstagram @WikiListenTwitter @Wiki_ListenGet bonus content on Patreon

Rachel Teichman, LCSW, and Victor Varnado, KSN, explore the surprisingly complicated world of cow poop and environmental policy in this stinky but serious episode. The Dutch manure crisis refers to the overproduction of animal waste due to intensive farming, leading to major ecological and political challenges. In fact, the Netherlands had to implement strict nitrogen regulations in response. It’s a smelly situation with very real consequences—and plenty to learn.Full Wikipedia here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dutch_manure_crisisSubscribe to our new newsletter, WikiWeekly at https://newsletter.wikilisten.com/ for a fun fact every week to feel smart and impress your friends, and MORE! https://www.patreon.com/wikilistenpodcastFind us on social media!https://www.facebook.com/WikiListenInstagram @WikiListenTwitter @Wiki_ListenYoutubeGet bonus content on Patreon

Victor Varnado, KSN, and Rachel Teichman, LCSW, dive into the fascinating world of "Indigo Children," a New Age concept describing kids who are believed to possess special, sometimes supernatural traits. The hosts explore the origins of the idea and how it's been embraced—and criticized—by various communities. Did you know the term gained popularity in the 1970s thanks to parapsychologist Nancy Ann Tappe? Whether you're a skeptic or curious believer, this episode brings the mystery to life.Produced and hosted by Victor Varnado & Rachel TeichmanFull Wikipedia article here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigo_childrenSubscribe to our new newsletter, WikiWeekly at https://newsletter.wikilisten.com/ for a fun fact every week to feel smart and impress your friends, and MORE! https://www.patreon.com/wikilistenpodcastFind us on social media!https://www.facebook.com/WikiListenInstagram @WikiListenTwitter @Wiki_ListenGet bonus content on Patreon

With the recent passing of Pope Francis, Victor Varnado, KSN, and Rachel Teichman, LMSW, turn to Wikipedia to read about the solemn and detailed traditions that follow the death of a reigning pope. The episode offers a look at how the Catholic Church honors its highest spiritual leader. The hosts highlight fascinating elements like the sealing of the papal apartments and the role of the camerlengo. It's an informative tribute episode with plenty of historical context and ritual insight.Produced and hosted by Victor Varnado & Rachel TeichmanFull Wikipedia article here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_and_funeral_of_Pope_FrancisSubscribe to our new newsletter, WikiWeekly at https://newsletter.wikilisten.com/ for a fun fact every week to feel smart and impress your friends, and MORE! https://www.patreon.com/wikilistenpodcastFind us on social media!https://www.facebook.com/WikiListenInstagram @WikiListenTwitter @Wiki_ListenGet bonus content on Patreon