Science with The Blunt Letters

In this mind-bending episode of The Blunt Letters, Micaela, Elle, and Jerbil dive deep into the dystopian, daring, and sometimes darkly funny science fiction world of director Bong Joon Ho. From the grimy class warfare aboard Snowpiercer to the genetically engineered heartbreak of Okja, the monstrous consequences of The Host, and the speculative intrigue of Mickey 17, the gang dissects how Bong’s films tackle pollution, capitalism, and what it means to be human.Expect sexy tangents, sharp insights, and laughs as they explore how one director can make monsters out of sludge—and still make you cry about a super pig.Featuring the original song "Cat Madness" by Micaela SuperstarReferences:Bong Joon HoOkja (2017)Snowpiercer (2013) Snowpiercer - Graphic NovelThe Host (2006)Mickey 17 (2025)

In this episode of The Blunt Letters Podcast, hosts Elle Lectrick and Micaela Superstar dive deep into Season 3 of Showtime’s Yellowjackets. They unravel the latest twists, share their wildest fan theories, and debate what’s real, what’s imagined, and who’s definitely not making it to the finale. With their signature blend of humor and insight, they predict what’s in store for the final two seasons. Will the past ever stay buried? Tune in for buzzworthy speculation, shocking revelations, and plenty of laughs along the way.Featuring the original song "Would u eat me up?" by Micaela SuperstarFollow us!thebluntletters.com, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, DepopReferences:Yellowjackets (TV Show)

In this episode of The Blunt Letters Podcast, fan-favorite guest Scientist Sarah returns to dish on the current state of science in today’s wild world. She gives us the lowdown on what’s happening in labs and headlines. We ask the burning questions—some smart, some silly—and get fascinating and fun answers. As always, Sarah brings the facts with a side of realness. Featuring original song "Science Shuffle" by Micaela SuperstarReferences:Measles cases linked to Texas outbreak reach 561, with 20 new infections confirmedConsequences of Undervaccination — Measles Outbreak, New York City, 2018–2019UMass Chan Medical School rescinds dozens of offers amid funding uncertaintyFrench scientist denied US entry after phone messages critical of Trump foundThe Fascism Expert at Yale Who’s Fleeing AmericaColumbia suspends and expels pro-Palestinian students who occupied buildingHow does male circumcision protect against HIV infection?Common Side Effects

This week on Science with The Blunt Letters, Micaela Superstar and Elle Lectrick return with another delightfully disgusting installment of the Poop Chronicles! Joined by special guest Jon B. from Naked and Afraid, the trio dives into the science, myths, and madness surrounding weaponized waste. It’s messy, it’s mind-blowing, and it’s scientifically legit (mostly). So grab your headphones and some air freshener—this one’s gonna get gross in the best way.Featuring the original song "Jon B." by Micaela SuperstarReferences:Feces Dead Horses and FleasSurvivalist Peter FreuchenGreek Fire, Poison Arrows & Scorpion Bombs: Biological and Chemical Warfare in the Ancient WorldPunji stickResearcher invents weapons of waste destruction

In this stellar episode of The Blunt Letters, hosts Elle Lectrick, Micaela Superstar, and Jerbil blast off into the world of sci-fi literature as they share their latest reads. From mind-bending narratives to speculative futures, they discuss the books fueling their days.But that's not all — the crew dives into the fascinating (and slightly unsettling) situation of astronauts still stranded on the International Space Station. Plus, they unravel the mysterious origins of Earth's many moons — yes, moons!This episode is extra special as the team celebrates five years of The Blunt Letters podcast and 15 years of The Blunt Letters as a creative force. Don’t miss this mix of science, speculation, and celebration!Featuring the original song "2 Moons are Better Than 1" by Micaela SuperstarReferences:Year of the Flood by Margaret AtwoodThe City and Its Uncertain Walls by Haruki MurakamiDamned by Chuck PalahniukDoomed by Chuck PalahniukThis Asteroid Might Make Impact With Earth in 2032 | NOVA | PBSAuthor Jim MarrsGiant-impact hypothesisLoofah sponges as reservoirs and vehicles in the transmission of potentially pathogenic bacterial species to human skin.How Often Should You Replace Your Loofah To Keep It From Turning Into A Cesspool Of Germs?Hidden ‘forever chemicals’ in popular high-end smartwatch and fitness tracker bands

This week, we continue our deep dive into the surreal and seductive world of David Lynch, focusing on his mind-bending Los Angeles trilogy: Lost Highway, Mulholland Drive, and Inland Empire. We unravel body-swapping mysteries, Hollywood curses, and the undeniable power of a super sexy micro bang. Are we trapped in a dream? A nightmare? A never-ending audition? Who knows?! But one thing’s for sure—this episode is dripping with Lynchian weirdness, existential dread, and just the right amount of horniness.Featuring the original song “Galactic Spiral Arm” by Micaela SuperstarReferencesS3 Ep 19: Twin Peaks and Conspiracy with Isaac WeishauptWhat Did Jack Do? (2017)BL Minizine of Grossest David Lynch CharactersTriangle Movie (2009)Lost Highway (1997)Inland Empire (2006)Mulholland Drive (2001)

In this episode of theBlunt Letters Podcast, we pay tribute to the late David Lynch, a visionary who reshaped cinema and deeply influenced generations of artists, including our own Micaela. Lynch’s ability to tap into the subconscious through surreal storytelling, dreamlike imagery, and eerie sound design has profoundly shaped cinema. His work blurs the line between reality and dreams, evoking emotions beyond words and redefining narrative structure in filmmaking. Join Micaela, Elle, and Jerbil as they explore his groundbreaking impact, from bringing the bizarre and uncanny into the mainstream to inspiring artists to embrace mystery and fearlessness in their work, in part one of this special tribute.Featuring the original song "Paranormal Stoner" by Micaela SuperstarReferences:Twin Peaks DayLost Highway - Mystery Man at PartyUniform (Band)Angelo BadalamentiNine Inch Nails and David LynchWild at Heart Barry GiffordS3 Ep 19: Twin Peaks and Conspiracy with Isaac WeishauptSeverance (TV Show)

Welcome to the first episode of 2025! We’re welcoming the new year with weird stories from our backyard, this episode is all about creepy California. We had a recent tsunami warning and it made us wonder, what should we do? Then we describe and discuss lesser-known cryptids from the golden state. Finally, what’s going on with Mt. Shasta? This volcanic mountain has been a hot bed for everything from spiritual pilgramiges, to UFO sightings! Get to know this majestic California peak. Featuring Original Song “Quartz Portalz” by Micaela SuperstarReferences:Mt ShastaResident AlienHow Would A Tsunami Affect the Bay Area? Scientists Weigh-inSurfer Today “How to Survive a Tsunami”Tsunami Reality CheckFor centuries, Big Sur residents have seen 'Dark Watchers' in the mountainsThe Fresno NightcrawlerA Guide To California's Monsters And Mythical CreaturesCount of St. Germain

In this episode of The Blunt Letters, we launch with an eye-opening Space Update, diving into the fascinating conditions astronauts face aboard the International Space Station—from microgravity woes to cosmic living quirks. Then, we bring it back to Earth with a stylish spin, exploring three quintessential pieces of American fashion: the classic moto jacket, the timeless Chuck Taylor Converse sneakers, and the ever-cool Clubmaster sunglasses. Finally, we look to the future by discussing cutting-edge advances in sneaker technology and materials, including performance-enhancing designs. It’s a journey through space and style you won’t want to miss! Featuring Original Song “Science Shuffle” by Micaela Superstar Join our Patreon! Get the "What Are You Drinking?" cocktail recipe book and The Cryptid Cocktail Party recipe book when you join at the $5 level before 12/25/2024. Don't forget to follow us on Insta, TikTok, Facebook, and Depop! Find everything at The Blunt Letters.com References NASA live feed Astronaut Exercise Bart Simpson Shoe The Sandlot (1993) Club Master glasses Chuck Taylor Allstar Shoes Perfecto Moto Jacket Ramones Album cover Asics Quantum Shoes

This week on the Blunt Letters podcast we discuss the Earth’s changing climate, the steps scientists are taking to combat disasters, and how gophers helped Mt. Saint Helens bounce back after the famous eruption in 1980. Plus! We have another Space Update. Four people recently came back to Earth from the International Space Station, but not Willaims and Wilmore - the astronauts who were only supposed to stay for a week, we’ll tell you why!  Featuring the original song “Cat Madness” by Micaela Superstar References: Best Friends Podcast - The slap  Good Hair (2009) A SpaceX capsule just came back to Earth. Here’s why Boeing Starliner’s astronauts weren’t on it NASA astronauts on readjusting to life on Earth: ‘It’s hard to sit’ Scientists Aim to Halt ‘Doomsday Glacier’ Collapse With a Giant Underwater Curtain How gophers brought Mount St. Helens back to life in one day

In the Animal Moon Rituals episode of The Blunt Letters podcast, Micaela and Elle dive into the fascinating lives of elephants, horseshoe crabs, fish, and coral. They explore the unique behaviors and ancient rituals these animals have influenced by lunar cycles. Elephants' complex social structures and emotional depth are discussed, along with the strange, age-old spawning practices of horseshoe crabs. This episode blends science and comedy, celebrating animals' mysterious bond with lunar rhythms. Featuring the original song “2 Moons are Better than 1” by Micaela Superstar References: They are very well aware of their agency': Elephant calf burial ritual discovered in India Ronald Siegel Moon worship: Pliny the Elder  Lunar Cycle May Influence Elephants' Crop 'Raids' The lunar cycle: effects on human and animal behavior and physiology 6 Wild Ways the Moon Affects Animals

Welcome to another installment of the Poop Chronicles! Our guest Jon Bonesi joins us to talk about haunted toilets worldwide! We cover toilet hauntings from Japan, Europe and even our own local bathrooms. Get ready for a spooky poopy episode! Featuring the original song "Vampyre" by Micaela Superstar

Welcome back to another spooky season episode of The Blunt Letters podcast! This week we get into the science of reanimation. Mary Shelly based her Frankenstein story on “true events,” what were they and where are we now when it comes to restoring life to the dead? And, in light of the new Beetlejuice movie, we bring you a Let Me Tell You About This Movie all about Tim Burton’s new sequel and revisit our favorite sci-fi animation series from the ’90s: Beetlejuice, The Real Ghost Busters, and X-Men: The Animated Series.  References Is It Possible to Reanimate the Dead? How scientists have reanimated cells from dead pigs Scientists are Giving Dead Brains New Life. What Could Go Wrong? Johann Konrad Dippel Giovanni Aldini Luigi Galvani Beetlejuice (TV Series) Ghostbusters (TV Series) X-Men: The Animated Series Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024) Mubi

Welcome to spooky season with The Blunt Letters! This week we sink our teeth into the science of vampires! Were there real bloodsuckers in history? Or were they misunderstood patients suffering from a rare disease? Plus, get our little-known vampire recommendations to watch this spooky season! Featuring Original Song “ Vampyre” by Micaela Superstar Join our Patreon! Get the "What Are You Drinking?" cocktail recipe book and The Cryptid Cocktail Party recipe book when you join at the $5 level before 12/25/2024. Don't forget to follow us on Insta, TikTok, Facebook, and Depop! Plus check out The Blunt Letters pod for a science podcast that's irreverently nerdy! Listen wherever you listen to podcasts! References:Vampire Vampires in America (2022) Netflix will not air documentary of missing Ohio man that was allegedly sacrificed by vampire coven Bunnicula Near Dark (1987) The Deluxe Transitive Vampire by Karen Elizabeth Gordon Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia What We Do In The Shadows The Adventures of Barry Ween, Boy Genius by Judd Winick Blood and Water by Judd Winick Truck Route Serial Killers 30 Days of Night (2007) Thirst (2009) Therese Raquin by Emile Zola  Jerry and The Vampire

This week we dive into the sea to find out what lies deep beneath the ocean. The Titanic is still down there and a crew is again making a deep-sea pilgrimage to check out the wreck. Here at the BL, we’re still wondering why. Then, one of Micaela’s not-so irrational fears may soon be resolved as scientists discover a way to predict devastating rogue waves. And, do you know what the world’s biggest ocean is? What if we told you it was buried beneath the Earth's crust? Learn about the water-absorbing rock deep within the Earth’s mantle and its role in our future.  Featuring Original Song “Math is Facts” by Micaela Superstar Join our Patreon! Get 50 minizines, exclusive behind the scenes video, and more! Don't forget to follow us on Insta, TikTok, Facebook, and Depop! Plus check out The Blunt Letters pod for a science podcast that's irreverently nerdy! Listen wherever you listen to podcasts! References: NASA says 'pulsing sound' inside Boeing Starliner has stopped, won't impact slated return Section of Titanic Made Famous in Movie Collapses Onto Ocean Floor Ships could predict freak waves before they happen New Evidence for Oceans of Water Deep in the EarthDehydration melting at the top of the lower mantle The green children of woolpit!! Enslaved TV Mini-series (2020)