Stuff Mom Never Told You

Gift-giving is a common human tradition, especially around holidays and birthdays. But who benefits most: the giver, or the receiver? In this episode, Molly and Cristen examine what studies reveal about altruism, gifts and human psychology. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The morning-after pill is a controversial form of emergency contraception that's often misunderstood. In this listener-inspired episode, Molly and Cristen discuss the pros and cons of the morning-after pill, as well as the many misconceptions about it. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These days, the Grafenberg spot, or G-spot, is a heated topic. Does this vaginal pleasure spot really exist? Do all women have one? Molly and Cristen jump into the mix as they explore what studies reveal -- and don't -- about the mythical G-spot. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In general, female playwrights are less likely to have their plays produced than their male counterparts. But why? In this episode, Molly and Cristen examine why there are gender disparities in the theater community. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Temporomandibular joint disorder is a term for various disorders that affect the jaw and seem to affect more women than men. In this episode, Molly and Cristen explore the possible role of gender in TMJ -- and why we still don't know very much about it. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's professional women sometimes rely on nannies to help them out in the domestic sphere, yet many of them seem to feel guilty about it. Why? In this episode, Molly and Cristen examine the dynamics and dilemmas of employing a nanny. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monogamy is often touted as the cultural ideal for human partners, but are we really cut out for it? Molly and Cristen take a look at social and sexual monogamy in the animal kingdom in an attempt to answer this question. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all know what cellulite is, but have you ever wondered where that dreaded dimpled skin comes from? And why it affects women more than men? In this episode, Molly and Cristen investigate the causes of cellulite and possible cures for the condition. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In part two of their series, Molly and Cristen take a look at some famous female superheroes, starting with the most iconic female comic book character of all: Wonder Woman. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In comic books, females are often portrayed as victims and sex symbols and tend to play second fiddle to male characters. In this episode, Molly and Cristen set the stage for a discussion of female superheroes and the gender dynamics of comic book art. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some studies have found that the number of women who identify as heavy drinkers has risen, while the number of light drinkers has declined. Male drinking habits seem to have hit a plateau. Could these studies be correct? Tune in and learn more. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Little girls and women seem to have an affinity for horses. But why? In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss a variety of theories about why girls love horses, from the bizarre to the believable. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Multiple studies indicate that people with sisters seem to be happier than people with brothers -- but what does this mean, and could it be true? Join Molly and Cristen as they explore the relationship between your siblings' gender and your happiness. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are female killers different from male killers? What motivates women to murder? In this episode, Molly and Cristen interview former FBI criminal profiler Candice DeLong to gain insights into the psychology and motivations of lady killers. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Molly and Cristen explore the surprisingly feminist origins and history of Home Economics, an academic discipline that's often referred to as Family and Consumer Sciences today. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although asexuality in other organisms is well-understood, human asexuality is more of a mystery to us. Is asexuality a disorder, or an orientation? Molly and Cristen examine what studies and anecdotal evidence reveal about human asexuality. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These days, "sexy" female costumes for women are all the rage, but has this trend gone too far? And is it demeaning to women or empowering? In this Halloween-themed episode, Molly and Cristen discuss the gender implications of the "sexy" costume craze. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today the number of female motorcyclists is increasing, but it's not the first time in history that women have driven motorcycles. In this episode, Molly and Cristen examine the fascinating history of women and motorcycles. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These days, many women shave their legs on a regular basis and don't give it a second thought. But where did this shaving trend originate? It all started with advertising and a company trying to sell a product, as Molly and Cristen reveal in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Acne is typically associated with teenagers and puberty, but unfortunately, it doesn't always go away with age. In this episode, Molly and Cristen talk about what studies and statistics suggest about the phenomenon of adult acne. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These days, a majority of modern women carry a handbag of some sort. Why are purses so popular with women? And why are they so expensive? In this episode, Molly and Cristen take a look at the cultural history and gender implications of handbags. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to body odor, we all smell a little different. But are there distinct gender differences? In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss how body odor works, the many factors that can affect it -- and tactful ways to address a body odor problem. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a commonly held belief that women's periods synchronize when they spend a lot of time together. This popular theory has a scientific basis, but more recent studies suggest that it's not actually valid. Tune in and learn more in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Molly and Cristen list five of the most iconic cosmetics in the history of modern makeup. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scandinavian countries are reportedly tops when it comes to gender equality. Why? In this episode, Molly and Cristen examine the factors that contribute to Scandinavia's woman-friendly reputation -- and whether they're a good measure of gender equality. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Molly and Cristen take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as they pay tribute to three beloved (non-Barbie) dolls from their childhoods. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent trend has seen young people -- especially women -- choosing to be celibate for non-religious reasons. But why? In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss the cultural history, gender implications and possible benefits of celibacy. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chivalry was originally the code of behavior for medieval knights; today, the term is synonymous with courteous male behavior towards women. But is modern chivalry obsolete? Molly and Cristen ponder chivalry, courtesy and feminism in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to shedding pounds, men have an advantage: They lose weight faster and more easily than women do. Why? In this episode, Molly and Cristen examine the many variables that affect weight loss in general -- and female weight loss in particular. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ecofeminism is a movement that combines feminist and ecological concerns. In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss the history, goals, movements, conflicting ideas and complications of ecofeminism. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Historically, most stage magicians have been men -- and there's still a gender imbalance in the profession today. Why? What's the deal with women and magic? Molly and Cristen explore the gender implications, roles and politics of magic in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Molly and Cristen examine the gendering of musical instruments, from the lack of male harpists to the gender politics of lutes, in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some recent studies have suggested a positive correlation between semen quality and intelligence. But do smart men really have better sperm? In this episode, Molly and Cristen sift through a wealth of research in an attempt to answer that question. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Other mammals signal that they're fertile in obvious ways, but human females seem to advertise in more subtle ways. In this episode, Molly and Cristen present seven (supposed) signs of subliminal ovulation. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Diapers would seem to be an indispensable necessity for new babies, but some people argue that they're wasteful and unnecessary. In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss baby poop, elimination communication and the pros and cons of diapers. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss why breaking up with romantic partners is universally painful -- and offer some consolation to sufferers -- as they explore the brain chemistry of breakups. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Molly and Cristen talk about the "beauty premium" and how physical attractiveness can be advantageous (and lucrative) in the workplace. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a metabolic disorder that creates hormone imbalances in women's bodies. Molly and Cristen discuss PCOS research, definitions, symptoms and treatment -- and why it's so hard to get a correct diagnosis -- in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to stereotypes, men find women with small feet more attractive than large-footed ladies. Is there any science to back up that claim? Molly and Cristen discuss what studies reveal about foot size and sexual attractiveness in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guerrilla Girls is a group of female artists/activists whose mission is to expose discrimination in the art world. In this episode, Molly and Cristen investigate and discuss the origins, activism and effectiveness of the Guerrilla Girls. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rapes kits are used to collect forensic evidence from rape victims. In this episode, Molly and Cristen discuss the contents of rape kits, rape kit testing, SANE programs and the medical professionals who administer rape kit exams and collect evidence. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Conventional wisdom would suggest that long-distance relationships are doomed to failure, but is that actually the case? Molly and Cristen sift through stats and studies to determine if long-distance relationships can ever work out. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Statistical evidence suggests that men are very preoccupied with the size of their penises. But should they be? In this episode, Molly and Cristen examine statistics and syndromes and debunk some myths in their quest to answer this age-old question. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Traditionally, cooking has been considered a female task. Yet in the professional realm, men predominate. Why? Do men and women cook food differently? Molly and Cristen explore gender issues in the culinary world in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although Title IX is now associated with its impact on female athletics in educational arenas, the woman who spurred the law's passage had a different agenda. Molly and Cristen examine Title IX's origins, present and controversial future in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Foot binding is an ancient Chinese practice that was popular for centuries before it was outlawed in 1912. Molly and Cristen take a closer look at this extreme practice's history, cultural significance, controversies and side effects in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In most modern cultures, it's traditional for men to propose marriage to women. But where did this tradition come from? Should women propose to men? Molly and Cristen investigate the origins and cultural significance of marriage proposals in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to anecdotal evidence and some studies, women are often attracted to "bad boys" -- risk-taking, narcissistic types. Molly and Cristen discuss three personality traits that make bad boys (and girls) appealing in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Molly and Cristen explore how babies are cared for at a neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU, and share tips for parents with children in the NICU. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Condoms have a surprisingly long and storied history, as well as lots of fun nicknames! Molly and Cristen take a detailed look at these popular prophylactics, past and present, in this episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.