Hello and Welcome to The 5-Minute Expert, where we deliver deep dives on big topics in just five minutes! I’m your host, Art Fuller, PhD and today, we're exploring the fascinating history of newspapers and the contemporary challenges facing news reporting. Let’s jump in!

Today we’re diving into the world of cryptocurrencies—what they are, how they work, and why they’ve become such a buzzword in finance and technology.

You’ve likely heard about Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other digital currencies, but maybe you’re still unsure about the details. Well, by the end of this episode, you’ll understand the fundamentals of crypto, and I’ll help demystify this exciting and fast-evolving space.

A whirlwind tour of the wacky and wonderful quirks of the English compared to Americans. From their love of tea and queues to driving on the left and wrapping food in faux newspaper, these cultural differences remind us just how fascinating our shared history is!

Voting. Specifically, those razor-thin votes that changed history—or could have. We’re looking into some close calls where just a handful of votes—or even just one—made all the difference. From presidential elections to monumental legislation, these moments reveal how every vote matters.

If you carve a pumpkin this Halloween, you’re participating in an age-old tradition with roots in ancient Ireland and the Celtic festival of Samhain. By carving those spooky faces and setting candles inside, you’re echoing the beliefs of people from centuries ago, who saw Halloween as a time to honor ancestors and stay safe from wandering spirits.

The McDonald’s Happy Meal and cereal box toys are about more than just clever marketing; they reflect the powerful connection between food, fun, and childhood. Whether you grew up collecting Happy Meal toys or digging through a box of cereal for a hidden prize, these experiences have left a lasting impact on pop culture and marketing practices.

Today we’re diving into a topic that's a staple in our daily lives—deodorant. Yup, that humble stick, spray, or roll-on we all use without giving it much thought has a long and surprising history! How did humans go from au natural odor to modern deodorants? Let’s find out.

From the ancient Middle East to the bustling coffee shops of today, the coffee cup has evolved along with our love for the beverage it holds.

In this episode of 5 Minute Expert, Dr. Art Fuller explores the fascinating world of frets—metal strips embedded in stringed instruments like guitars that aid in pitch control and finger placement. Discover the history of frets, from their ancient origins in lutes to their evolution into the modern guitars we know today, and learn how musicians have pushed the boundaries with fretless instruments. 

We look at a couple of things the Romans knew that still baffle scientists and engineers today. Our sponsor this week is WeBeSandals.com. Authentic Giraffe leather sandals just like the Roman legionnaire that trampled all over Gaul back in the day...