The ‘Mad Gasser of Mattoon’ is one of history’s most bizarre unsolved mysteries

If you’re looking for some fascinating and bizarre facts, look no further than PopSci‘s popular podcast,
The Weirdest Thing I Learned This Week. Available on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and more, this podcast brings you the weirdest science-related stories curated by the editors of Popular Science. If you enjoy the content in this post, you’ll definitely love the show.

In today’s episode, we have a special guest, Alie Ward, host of the hit podcast Ologies!

FACT: The mystery of the “Mad Gasser of Mattoon” still remains unsolved

By Rachel Feltman

The strange case of the “Mad Gasser of Mattoon” began in 1944 when a woman in Mattoon, Illinois, experienced paralysis and a sweet odor in her home. This incident sparked a series of similar reports in the town, leading to international attention. Despite attempts to explain it as mass hysteria, the truth behind these events remains a mystery.

FACT: The surprising origin story of Old Bay seasoning

By Alie Ward

Old Bay seasoning, a beloved staple in many dishes, has a fascinating history. Created by a German Jewish immigrant named Gustav Brunn, the seasoning’s journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a household name is a tale of resilience and success.

FACT: Beware of corn sweat and its potential dangers

By Jess Boddy

Corn sweat, a phenomenon exacerbated by climate change, has been causing havoc in the Midwest. This natural occurrence, coupled with other environmental factors, has led to challenging conditions for residents. Learn more about the effects of corn sweat in this week’s episode.