Why is this interesting?

Why is this interesting? is a daily email by Noah Brier & Colin Nagy exploring intriguing aspects of diverse topics ranging from geography and culture to business strategies and environmental issues. Each post delves into the unique characteristics, challenges, and insights related to various subjects and locations around the world.

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The hottest Substack posts of Why is this interesting?

And their main takeaways
180 implied HN points β€’ 19 Jun 25
  1. The album 'Desperate Straights' combines many different music styles in a unique way, mixing genres like opera and pop.
  2. The lyrics are clever and playful, with the singer's distinctive voice adding to the album's charm.
  3. It's a challenging listen at first, but it becomes more rewarding with each play, making it a true musical masterpiece.
1025 implied HN points β€’ 16 Jun 25
  1. Guiding safaris isn't just about spotting animals. It's more about understanding the silence and the stories of the wilderness.
  2. It's important to read widely and explore different viewpoints to avoid being stuck in a bubble of comfort. This helps you learn and grow.
  3. Photography connects nature with creativity. It encourages you to slow down and pay better attention to the world around you.
482 implied HN points β€’ 17 Jun 25
  1. Running barefoot can help you feel the ground better and improve your natural running form. This connection can reduce the chances of getting hurt.
  2. Proprioception, or your body's awareness of its position and movement, is enhanced when you run without bulky shoes. With less padding, you get better feedback from the ground.
  3. Even though many places don't allow running barefoot, it's possible to find ways to get that natural feel for your feet, like running on grass or sand when you can.
1085 implied HN points β€’ 10 Jun 25
  1. Suiseki is the Japanese art of displaying beautiful stones that resemble mountains or landscapes. These stones encourage people to admire nature's beauty in a unique way.
  2. Setting up a suiseki display involves careful selection of stones and bases that enhance their natural shapes and features. This process is similar to bonsai, where presentation plays a key role.
  3. Unlike living plants, suiseki stones can't die, making them a low-maintenance way to enjoy art and nature in your home. They allow for contemplation of nature's beauty without the worry of upkeep.
1085 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jun 25
  1. Listening to podcasts is a great way to stay informed and entertained throughout the day, especially during morning routines or before sleep.
  2. Finding new music can be fun; using charts and social media to discover songs is a good strategy.
  3. Reading print books and engaging with well-designed articles in magazines offers a unique experience that digital formats can't fully replicate.
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482 implied HN points β€’ 12 Jun 25
  1. Qassem Soleimani was a powerful figure in the Middle East who influenced many conflicts, but most people didn't know who he was. His methods involved quiet diplomacy and personal connections rather than flashy displays of power.
  2. Soleimani built a complex network of militias that depended on his relationships and the stories he told. His approach showed that personal influence can sometimes be more powerful than formal agreements.
  3. After his death, the network he created began to weaken. This highlights that even intricate systems can unravel without strong leadership and the personal relationships that fueled them.
1206 implied HN points β€’ 29 May 25
  1. Inherited objects, like ceramics, can carry deep family stories and connections to the past. They remind us of our roots and the experiences of our loved ones.
  2. Many younger people today don't see value in their parents' heirlooms and often sell or discard them. What's considered treasure can quickly become trash.
  3. Finding creative ways to repurpose or display these inherited items can breathe new life into them. It helps keep the memories alive without the pressure of keeping them pristine.
723 implied HN points β€’ 02 Jun 25
  1. Reading novels can be more satisfying than consuming news, which often leads to frustration. It's good to focus on stories that inspire thought and creativity.
  2. Everyone should try to read more often and deeply, even if it's been a long time since they picked up a book. It's okay to start fresh, no matter when you last read.
  3. Apps like Doji use AI in creative ways, such as helping you visualize luxury clothing on yourself. They make shopping more engaging and can change how we approach fashion.
542 implied HN points β€’ 03 Jun 25
  1. Trees was a folk-rock band in the UK during the late 1960s and early 1970s that had a brief career and released two albums. They were known for their unique sound and a mix of traditional and modern influences.
  2. Their music is still appreciated today and they've gained a kind of cult following, alongside a box-set retrospective to celebrate their work.
  3. The band's second album cover, created by the famous design team Hipgnosis, is considered iconic and likely drew many listeners in, even if they were unfamiliar with the band.
422 implied HN points β€’ 05 Jun 25
  1. The Securicode keypad is a practical feature on vehicles that allows users to unlock doors without needing a key. It's been around since 1980 and remains popular because it's easy to use and very useful.
  2. Securicode introduces tiered access for vehicles, meaning you can allow someone to access your truck without giving them the ability to drive it. This is great for job sites where you might want to share tools without losing control of the vehicle.
  3. The long-lasting success of Securicode shows that simple solutions can be effective. More complex systems might be fancier, but they often require more resources, making Securicode a smart choice in automotive design.
301 implied HN points β€’ 07 Jun 25
  1. There's a big change happening where fewer people prefer to have boys now, which is a positive shift.
  2. Some young people can live on just $432 a month in America if they're willing to move to a low-cost area like Massena, New York.
  3. Japan is dealing with a rice shortage, which prompted them to release a lot of rice from their emergency stockpiles to help manage the situation.
844 implied HN points β€’ 27 May 25
  1. Being intentional about what media you consume can help you enjoy it more. Switching to an iPad Mini for reading apps made a big difference.
  2. Watching YouTube can be fun, especially for product, car reviews, and live music. It’s important to give feedback to the apps to avoid unwanted content.
  3. Reading books can offer new perspectives and laughs. It's nice to create a cozy reading environment, like a comfy chair and coffee in the mornings.
1146 implied HN points β€’ 22 May 25
  1. Tokyo has unique listening bars where you can enjoy music played from a bartender's record collection. It's a quiet space where you can truly appreciate the music without distractions.
  2. During a visit, the bartender played several songs featuring the same session drummer, showing the depth of his musical knowledge. Discovering this connection made the experience more meaningful.
  3. You can learn more about a place by returning to the same spot instead of rushing around. Spending time in one place allows you to notice details and understand the local culture better.
120 implied HN points β€’ 11 Jun 25
  1. Brian Wilson has passed away, which is a significant loss for music fans. His contribution to music was profound and will be remembered.
  2. Many people recognize 'Pet Sounds' as a top album, but there's also appreciation for 'The Beach Boys Today.' It marks a shift in their music style.
  3. The Beach Boys' evolution from surf songs to deeper themes showcases their creativity and growth as artists over time.
663 implied HN points β€’ 20 May 25
  1. 'More Human Than Human' by White Zombie mixed industrial metal with themes of horror, influencing music and art for years. It's catchy yet unique, easy to remember but also strange.
  2. The song came out at a crucial time in music history, blending grunge's decline and nu-metal's rise, catching the attention of MTV and mainstream media.
  3. Even with its odd sound, 'More Human Than Human' reached number 7 on the Billboard charts, showing that being different can lead to commercial success.
8385 implied HN points β€’ 24 Jan 25
  1. Check your email settings in Substack if you're not receiving newsletters. Sometimes the settings can change without you realizing it.
  2. Substack's 'smart notifications' can lead to confusion and missed emails. It can send app notifications but not the actual emails from writers.
  3. If you experience issues with Substack emails, switching the notification settings to 'Only in email' can help you start receiving them again.
361 implied HN points β€’ 24 May 25
  1. Thomas Keller, a famous chef, asked a food critic to leave his restaurant, which led to an unexpected three-hour wait that turned into a memorable experience for the critic.
  2. A launch video for Sam Altman and Jony Ive's new device is amusing, but it features odd random quotes. Ive recently sold his company for a huge sum of $6.5 billion.
  3. JosΓ© Mujica, known as the world's 'poorest president', passed away. He always believed that true poverty comes from wanting more and being in a constant race for material things.
180 implied HN points β€’ 31 May 25
  1. AI is making it really hard for new college grads to find jobs, even those with fancy degrees.
  2. People in Syria are now using metal detectors to search for gold after being free from the harsh Assad regime.
  3. Many startups fail, and there's a lot of confusion in the new media about how to get noticed.
180 implied HN points β€’ 21 May 25
  1. Kompakt is a well-known music label from Cologne that recently celebrated its 500th release. It has a unique style and perspective in the music industry.
  2. Philip Sherburne is recognized as an important music and culture writer who recently wrote a great retrospective on Kompakt.
  3. The label shares similarities with others like Ghostly International, showcasing a strong artistic vision and identity.
1870 implied HN points β€’ 11 Feb 25
  1. When a whale dies and sinks to the ocean floor, it becomes a feast for many sea creatures. This event leads to a chaotic but vital ecosystem around the whale carcass.
  2. After larger scavengers eat their fill, bacteria step in to break down the whale's body, turning it into nutrients for other life forms. This process creates a thriving community in a place that usually has little life.
  3. The cycle of life and death in the ocean shows that nothing goes to waste. Even in death, a whale can support new life for decades, reminding us that everything in nature is interconnected.
4222 implied HN points β€’ 25 Nov 24
  1. A varied media diet is important. It's good to consume information from different sources instead of just what algorithms choose for you.
  2. Books can offer deep insights. Reading across genres, like fiction and nonfiction, can help understand complex societal issues better.
  3. Curiosity about subcultures can spark creativity. Exploring unique groups and ideas can inspire new perspectives and work.
1870 implied HN points β€’ 04 Feb 25
  1. Bootlegging is now a normal part of the creative world, and it can even help brands grow. Artists and brands are beginning to embrace it as a form of new creativity rather than just a negative copy.
  2. Merchandise and bootleg items have become intertwined, with vintage pieces proving the value of new merchandise. This cycle helps brands to continue creating and offering new products to fans.
  3. Bootlegging often feels more genuine than mass-produced items. Unique, hand-made bootleg items can show a deeper connection and personal touch that many modern products lack.
1990 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jan 25
  1. Reading about history can teach us a lot about how things connect and evolve over time. It can even change the way we think about important world events.
  2. Predictive markets can help us gauge our understanding of the world. They can show whether our news sources are reliable and help us prepare for future events.
  3. Family history matters. Visiting the places where our ancestors came from can provide a deeper connection to our roots and help us see ourselves as part of a larger story.
1387 implied HN points β€’ 10 Feb 25
  1. Podcasts are great for learning and understanding different perspectives. They let you hear from interesting people in a simple and engaging way.
  2. Reading various newsletters can keep you updated on current trends, especially in hospitality and fashion. Finding unique voices in journalism makes the stories more enjoyable.
  3. Exploring your inner self, like through psychedelics, can help you understand your thoughts and reactions better. This understanding can improve your life and relationships.
1327 implied HN points β€’ 30 Jan 25
  1. B-sides were special songs that didn't fit on albums, offering hidden gems that fans could discover. In today's music scene, the magic of finding these tracks has almost disappeared.
  2. While people think albums are dying, many artists, like Taylor Swift, continue to create and sell vinyl records, showing that albums are still popular. They are more resilient than people might believe.
  3. Streaming services change how we discover music, focusing on what we already like. This can make us miss out on new, unexpected music, which is what B-sides used to provide.
1870 implied HN points β€’ 31 Dec 24
  1. Reflecting on your past can help you understand how you've changed and what you're proud of. It's a chance to see what you've learned and what you want to leave behind.
  2. Thinking about your present helps you identify your needs and what's important in your life. It prompts you to evaluate your daily habits and relationships.
  3. Looking toward the future encourages you to think about your goals and what success means to you. It's about planning the changes you want to make and how to grow into your best self.
1266 implied HN points β€’ 28 Jan 25
  1. The fabric nightclub in London is unique because it has maintained a strong focus on music and guest experience for many years. Many nightclubs chase nightlife trends and greed, but fabric stays true to its roots.
  2. The book about the nightclub captures its rich history and the passion of its community, including famous DJs and emerging artists. It highlights how important these connections are to the club's identity.
  3. Hospitality is essential for a great night out. At fabric, every detail, from security to coat checks, is handled carefully to create a welcoming experience where guests feel safe and taken care of.
2232 implied HN points β€’ 02 Dec 24
  1. The author has a deep love for fashion and culture writing, often consuming and creating content across many platforms. They follow a diverse range of publications and newsletters to stay informed.
  2. Reading is an important part of their routine, with a special interest in fiction, particularly romance. They also appreciate stories that showcase unique experiences, such as total eclipses.
  3. The author had a memorable experience with train travel and learned to be cautious with airplane food after a bad incident. They are passionate about sharing fun travel stories and quirky experiences.
965 implied HN points β€’ 14 Feb 25
  1. Romance novels offer escapism and predictable happy endings that many readers enjoy during tough times. They have become popular among diverse groups of women, from stay-at-home moms to college students.
  2. The romance genre focuses on female pleasure and sexuality while challenging societal views about women's desires. It mixes fun storytelling with important cultural discussions.
  3. Romance novels are a big business, outselling even the Bible. Many readers are not just fansβ€”they are part of a community that engages with the genre through discussions, fan fiction, and events.
1025 implied HN points β€’ 06 Feb 25
  1. Buying used records can make music purchases more special. It allows for a personal connection to the places visited.
  2. The Tohru Aizawa Quartet created a rare jazz album in the 1970s, originally made as a business card. The album stands out because of its unique backstory and quality.
  3. Despite their main careers being outside music, the band delivered impressive compositions that show their talent. Their music can be enjoyed by listening online, even if you can't find the physical record.
1085 implied HN points β€’ 23 Jan 25
  1. Many inexperienced climbers are now trying to summit Everest because of commercial expeditions that let anyone pay their way up. This has led to unsafe conditions and even deaths on the mountain.
  2. A new method to climb Everest includes using xenon gas to help increase red blood cells and improve oxygen flow, letting climbers ascend quicker. This is a big change from the traditional, slower acclimatization process.
  3. The climbing community is split on this new approach, with some seeing it as progress while others worry it's too risky. History shows that shortcuts in tough environments can lead to serious consequences.
1146 implied HN points β€’ 14 Jan 25
  1. The V-notch on sweatshirts started out as a practical feature for absorbing sweat and allowing flexibility. It was created for football players to wear comfortably.
  2. Many sweatshirts today have the V-notch but it's mostly for style, not function. It's interesting how practical designs can become just a fashion statement over time.
  3. Learning about fabric manufacturing, like Loopwheeler's unique approach, helps us appreciate quality and the history behind our everyday clothing.
2352 implied HN points β€’ 29 Oct 24
  1. Private rail cars are a luxurious way to travel that depend on public train systems like Amtrak. Owners can hitch their private cars onto regular train services for their trips.
  2. These rail cars were a big deal in the early 20th century, designed with amazing features like observation decks and sleeping quarters. Many were made by the famous Pullman company, known for its luxury craftsmanship.
  3. Even wealthy travelers in the past had to rely on public infrastructure, showing a unique blend of private luxury and public services. This coexistence is still important today as societies think about wealth and accessibility.
1146 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jan 25
  1. Being prepared for wildfires in LA is very important. Make sure to have a go-bag ready with essential items like masks, goggles, and fire-resistant clothing.
  2. Plan multiple escape routes from your home, as traffic can get very bad during evacuations. Knowing alternate paths can help you get out more easily.
  3. Keep your home and car ready for quick evacuations. This means keeping your gas tank full and clearing any flammable vegetation around your home.
663 implied HN points β€’ 13 Feb 25
  1. The Gladys Valley Marine Studies Building is a special structure designed to keep people safe during a tsunami. It works by taking them up high instead of out of the building.
  2. This building has features like multiple ways to get to the roof and supplies to help people stay safe for up to two days after a tsunami.
  3. Coastal communities are becoming more aware of tsunami risks and are trying to improve safety signs and evacuation plans to protect schools and public places.
1206 implied HN points β€’ 23 Dec 24
  1. Joe Weisenthal loves using Twitter in the morning to catch up on fast finance news, but he also checks his email and Bloomberg for important updates.
  2. He enjoys reading Substack newsletters, especially about country music and geopolitics, and he recommends some that he thinks others should follow too.
  3. Weisenthal has spent years exploring media theory and believes it helps understand today's changes in society and technology, particularly with social media.
663 implied HN points β€’ 03 Feb 25
  1. Joost Joossen uses photography as a way to practice mindfulness and boost his creativity. He believes in the power of daily photography to enhance well-being.
  2. Podcasts are a big part of Joost's media diet, helping him dig deeper into important topics without the stress of breaking news. He enjoys shows that cover culture, politics, and philosophy.
  3. He encourages everyone to visit bookstores and libraries, viewing them as essential places for learning and personal growth.
723 implied HN points β€’ 27 Jan 25
  1. Emanuel Derman has had a diverse career, changing paths from theoretical physics to finance and teaching, showing how one can blend different interests into a fulfilling life.
  2. He prefers reading over other media like podcasts, which reflects a desire for control over his pace. His media diet includes mainstream newspapers, literary journals, and financial newsletters, focusing on written content.
  3. Derman highlights the importance of poetry and fiction in his reading, and emphasizes a personal connection to understanding his roots through his writing.
784 implied HN points β€’ 16 Jan 25
  1. Watches can be much more than just timepieces; they often have interesting histories and connections to culture. The Khanjar dial watches from Oman are a perfect example, blending royal recognition with unique design.
  2. Some watches, like the Khanjar models, are given as gifts and can become valuable over time. A watch gifted to a pilot once sold for Β£600,000 at auction, showcasing how special pieces can gain worth.
  3. Today, Khanjar dial watches are still given out with discreet engravings, making them rare collectibles. They appeal to watch lovers for their unique stories and connections to royal heritage.