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.

Geography and Culture Business and Innovation Environmental Concerns Digital Culture and Social Media Literature and Art Personal Development Travel and Exploration

Top posts of the year

And their main takeaways

The Monday Media Diet with Jared Ray Johnson

723 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
📚 Literature Book Reviews Fiction writing Reading habits Media Consumption Writing process
  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.

The Monday Media Diet with David McCloskey

723 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Book Reviews Authors Writing Reading
  1. David McCloskey is a former CIA analyst who became a spy novelist. His experiences give depth to his fiction writing.
  2. He prefers reading books over watching TV news and enjoys exploring various topics, especially through literature.
  3. McCloskey recommends reading older spy novels, particularly by Charles McCarry, for a better understanding of the genre.

The White Zombie Edition

663 implied HN points • 20 May 25
🎶 Music Rock Metal Influence Culture History
  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.

The Monday Media Diet with Joost Joossen

663 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Books Photography Podcasts Music
  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.

The Vertical Evacuation Edition

663 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Natural Disasters Architecture Disaster Preparedness Environmental Science
  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.
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The Monday Media Diet with Dylan Neuhaus

663 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Literature Film Art Music
  1. Balance is key when it comes to consuming media. It's good to mix serious content with lighter, entertaining pieces.
  2. Reading deep stories about creativity and production processes can be more interesting than just the finished product, like a popular TV show.
  3. Exploring local grocery stores is a great way to learn about new places, offering a glimpse into the culture and community.

The Russia in Syria Edition

603 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Military Strategy International relations Regional conflicts Power Dynamics
  1. Syria is now in a very unstable state after Assad's regime is gone. This situation brings many challenges, like dealing with chemical weapons and returning refugees.
  2. Russia's naval port in Tartus and airfield in Hmeimim are key for their military power in the Middle East. Losing these would hurt Russia's strategy, especially with ongoing issues in Ukraine.
  3. Moscow is working hard to keep these bases by forming new alliances and adapting their approach. This shows how important Syria is for Russia's influence in the region.

The Trees (The Band) Edition

542 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🎶 Music Rock Folk History Influence
  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.

The Zakir Hussain Remembrance Edition

542 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎶 Music Classical Fusion Cultural Collaboration
  1. Zakir Hussain was a master of the tabla, a traditional Indian drum. He started learning at just three years old from his famous father, showing early talent.
  2. Hussain blended classical tabla music with modern influences and worked with big names like George Harrison and the Grateful Dead. He made the tabla more popular by bringing it to new audiences.
  3. His love for music started as a baby when his father sang tabla rhythms to him. This deep connection shaped his incredible career in music.

The World's Most Dangerous Toy Edition

482 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Toys Hobbies Childhood Nostalgia Play
  1. The Cox E-Z Flyer was a very exciting yet dangerous toy that required two people to operate safely. One person would start the plane while the other controlled it as it flew in circles.
  2. Many kids thought they could perform tricks with the plane, but this often led to crashes instead of successful flights. Ignoring safe practices usually resulted in broken planes and unhappy flyers.
  3. Although it was popular among hobbyists, the Cox E-Z Flyer was not made for kids and ended up causing more trouble than fun. It’s a reminder that some toys can be more dangerous than they seem.

The Thursday Selects Edition

482 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Photography Visual Arts Art history Contemporary Art
  1. Jason Charles is a winemaker and photographer, sharing his artistic work with others. It's great to see creative talents represented in different fields.
  2. The Thursday Selects Edition highlights the importance of visually breaking up text to keep readers engaged. Using images can make a post more interesting.
  3. Sharing guest contributions can bring fresh perspectives and ideas to a platform. It's a nice way to involve a community and showcase diverse talents.

The Dazzle Camo Edition

482 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Design History Photography Automotive
  1. Dazzle camo is a design technique that started in World War I to confuse enemy targeting, using bold geometric patterns. It helps to break up the shape of an object, making it harder to see and aim at.
  2. Car manufacturers adopted a modern version of dazzle camo to protect their prototype vehicles from spy photography. Even though these prototypes look attention-grabbing, the patterns are meant to confuse potential onlookers about the actual design.
  3. Today, prototypes often embrace their visibility with eye-catching patterns and even QR codes. This shift turns a potential exposure risk into a marketing opportunity, generating public interest instead of hiding away.

The Shadow Commander Edition

482 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Middle East Military Strategy
  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.

The Adult (Instrument) Learning Edition

482 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🎶 Music
  1. Learning an instrument like the drums can help you face fears, like stage fright, and give you a sense of accomplishment. Playing live music with friends can be a rewarding experience and make you feel more confident.
  2. Drumming teaches the importance of patience and practice. Improvement takes time and effort, showing that there are no shortcuts to getting better at anything.
  3. Playing the drums makes you a better listener. You start to hear different parts of songs and appreciate music in a new way, which can lead to discovering new artists and genres you enjoy.

The Monday Media Diet with Meg Daly

482 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🍲 Food & Drink Cookbooks Culinary Arts Food culture Dining Experiences Gardening
  1. A media diet doesn't just mean consuming less media; it means being picky about where you get your information. Look for sources that report facts without pushing an agenda.
  2. Reading can be more rewarding when you choose bestsellers, as they often have wide appeal. This way, you're more likely to enjoy what you read.
  3. Cooking can bring people together and create lasting memories. Sharing good meals and laughter around the dinner table is a cherished experience.

The Barefoot Edition

482 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Fitness Nutrition Mental health Physical therapy Wellbeing
  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.

The Texas Yemeni Coffee Bars Edition

482 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Food culture Cultural Exchange Community Entrepreneurship
  1. Yemeni coffeehouses in Texas are becoming popular spots for social gatherings without alcohol. People enjoy late-night hangs while sipping coffee and having meaningful conversations.
  2. The rise of these coffeehouses reflects changing demographics in Texas and a shift in cultural gathering places. Entrepreneurs are seizing the opportunity to create unique spaces for community.
  3. This trend shows how cultural patterns evolve, with communities finding ways to connect and socialize in diverse environments like coffee shops, similar to what has happened with juice bars.

The Hemi Edition

422 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Automotive Marketing Branding History Pop culture
  1. The Hemi engine has become a popular and recognized brand name, almost like its own celebrity in the car world. It's known for its strong performance and has fans calling for its return in various vehicles.
  2. Hemi's reputation stems from its long history and impressive performance, especially during the muscle car era of the 1960s. Its success in races helped cement its legendary status among car enthusiasts.
  3. Unlike many car brands, the Hemi name is well-known even outside of car culture, appearing in music and pop culture. This broader recognition is a rare achievement for an engine name.

The Tuesday Edition

422 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality History Rituals Traditions
  1. The seven-day week we use has been unchanged since at least 311 C.E., despite many calendar changes over the years.
  2. More than 625,000 days have passed without interrupting the sequence of days, showing consistency in how we mark time.
  3. Even with holidays that confuse us about what day it is, the schedule of the week keeps moving forward as normal.

The Securicode Edition

422 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Automotive Design Innovation Security User Experience
  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.

The Family Hotel Edition

422 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🏝 Travel Hospitality Luxury Experience Industry Trends
  1. Many big hotel chains have made luxury experiences feel like a factory production, losing the personal touch. This can make stays feel more like a standard process than a unique experience.
  2. There is a growing movement toward family-owned hotels that focus on personal service and unique experiences. These hotels offer a more thoughtful and warm atmosphere for guests.
  3. The contrast between corporate hospitality and family-run hotels highlights the importance of genuine care and attention in the hospitality industry. People are looking for more than just standard comforts; they want a human touch.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 35

422 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Media Entertainment Social Trends
  1. The article highlights interesting links shared in group chats, focusing on diverse topics for weekend reading.
  2. One featured piece discusses how two actors found a creative outlet in Grand Theft Auto during the pandemic.
  3. Another article looks at trends in substance use among U.S. teens, revealing interesting shifts in behavior.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 38

361 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music History Photography Theater
  1. The C-17 Globemaster is a powerful military aircraft that's very maneuverable, like a sports car. It's known for its strength and versatility in transport missions.
  2. The Palais Garnier in Paris is a stunning opera house, and there are beautiful images showcasing its rich interior. It's a historic venue that attracts many visitors.
  3. The way we interpret classic literature, like 'The Great Gatsby', can change over time. A leading expert dives into how our understanding may have missed important themes.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 55

361 implied HN points • 24 May 25
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Events Food Social Issues
  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. José 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.

The 1968 Edition

361 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Innovation Computing Design Space History
  1. In 1968, two important events changed how we see the world: the first photo of Earth from space and the first GUI demo. These moments helped people appreciate our planet's beauty and encouraged new ways of interacting with technology.
  2. Earthrise promoted environmental awareness, leading to events like the first Earth Day, while the GUI made computers more accessible for everyday use. Both advancements reshaped human perspective and knowledge.
  3. Technology has evolved, but many interfaces still use linear designs, which limit our ability to manage complex information. To improve, we might need to look toward using curves like nature does for better efficiency.

The Africa Smartphone Market Edition

361 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Smartphones Branding Emerging Markets Advertising Market Trends
  1. Emerging markets have unique brand competition, different from the flashy campaigns seen in the U.S. It's often more about creativity and connecting directly with local consumers.
  2. Companies like Tecno are gaining popularity in Africa because they cater to local preferences, like multiple SIM slots, which appeal to users who need more connectivity options.
  3. Advertising in these markets tends to be more genuine and less polished, focusing on grassroots efforts rather than big budget promotions to grab attention.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 31

361 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Food Travel Entertainment Lifestyle Media
  1. Blank Street Coffee is gaining attention and has some insights on competing with giants like Starbucks in NYC.
  2. There's a video discussing a major traffic issue in New Jersey where a lot of car lanes have to merge quickly into fewer lanes.
  3. A piece about American diners in London highlights the cultural challenges faced by Americans trying to navigate dining experiences abroad.

Le Bureau des Légendes edition

361 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Television Fiction Drama Intelligence Human experience
  1. Le Bureau des Légendes is a French spy drama that focuses on the emotional side of intelligence work. It shows how the personal lives of agents are affected by their dangerous missions.
  2. The show differs from typical American spy thrillers by being slow-paced and realistic. It emphasizes psychological complexity and real-world geopolitical issues instead of explosions and action.
  3. Fiction can reflect reality in unique ways. Just like the writer Gérard de Villiers, who often wrote about future events based on insights from the intelligence community, 'Le Bureau' offers deep understanding of current world issues through its storytelling.

The Captagon Edition

361 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Sanctions Middle East
  1. Syria has turned to producing Captagon, a powerful amphetamine, as a primary way to sustain its economy under heavy sanctions. This drug trade is now crucial for the country's finances.
  2. The Captagon business is very profitable, with low production costs and high selling prices in the Middle East. It brings in billions of dollars each year, making it one of Syria's top exports.
  3. The spread of Captagon is causing serious problems for neighboring countries, like rising addiction rates and increased smuggling. This has led to tensions and stricter border controls in those areas.

The Empire of Light Edition

301 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Surrealism Art market Painting Artists Exhibitions
  1. René Magritte's painting 'The Empire of Light' sold for over $120 million, setting a record for surrealist art at auction. This highlights the growing appreciation for surrealism in the art world.
  2. The painting depicts a street at night under a daytime sky, which is a unique and captivating imagery. It's part of a series that showcases Magritte's creative style and imagination.
  3. Magritte is now among a few elite artists whose works have crossed the nine-figure sale mark. This includes famous names like Leonardo da Vinci and Pablo Picasso.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 26

301 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Arts Media Entertainment Literature Society
  1. Russia has fined Google an insane amount of money, more than all the money in the world combined. This shows how serious they are about controlling tech companies.
  2. There’s a deep connection between the anime 'Perfect Blue' and the film 'Requiem for a Dream,' offering a unique history worth exploring. Both works have intriguing themes that many people appreciate.
  3. Crows have strong memories and can hold grudges, sometimes even mistaking others for their enemies. This behavior highlights how intelligent and complex these birds are.

The Leonard Cohen Shoe Shine Edition

301 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Fashion Rituals Literature
  1. Leonard Cohen was known for his love of fine tailoring, often wearing stylish suits. His attention to personal appearance showed he cared about looking good.
  2. While searching for his dress shoes, many images emerged of Cohen sitting on hotel room floors polishing his own shoes. This highlights his down-to-earth nature.
  3. The contrast between his polished look on stage and his simple shoe-shining ritual reflects a unique blend of elegance and humility in his character.

The Explicit Baseball Card Edition

301 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🎾 Sports Baseball Collectibles History Entertainment
  1. Billy Ripken's baseball card from 1989 is famous for its hilarious and playful mistake. It features something unexpected that caught fans' attention.
  2. Baseball cards were a big deal for many kids, with the thrill of finding rare ones like the Michael Jordan card.
  3. Different brands of baseball cards had their own unique styles, with Fleer being seen as less premium compared to brands like Upper Deck.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 58

301 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Lifestyle Travel Society
  1. Skype was a game-changer for communication, connecting people in new ways before its shutdown.
  2. Hampton Inn has grown to be the biggest hotel chain in the US by sticking to a solid, dependable formula.
  3. There are interesting debates about the moral lessons in shows like The Simpsons, which some critics have misunderstood.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 57

301 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
📰 News Politics Economics Culture Society
  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.

The Monday Media Diet with Ashtyn Butoso

301 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Literature Communication Sports Travel
  1. Ashtyn Butoso is a creative who loves sports and media, and she enjoys a mix of writing, video production, and freelance work. She's also passionate about animal rights and often indulges in various forms of media.
  2. She has a diverse media diet, including newsletters, podcasts, and local NYC content. She particularly enjoys work by Josh Gondelman and Hanif Abduraqib, showcasing her love for both humor and deep storytelling.
  3. Ashtyn recommends everyone visit Porto, Portugal, as it's an underrated gem. She also emphasizes the importance of attending WNBA games to appreciate the uniqueness of the experience.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 29

301 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Trends Lifestyle Entertainment Social
  1. Starbucks has become a popular hangout for teens, offering sweet drinks and a cozy space. This shift has changed its image but raises questions about health and habits.
  2. Running can be addictive for some people, leading to a mindset where they feel they can keep going without limits. It’s important to reflect on the motivations behind such activities.
  3. A video from The Verge explores why cassette and CD players are still bulky despite advancements in technology, revealing some interesting insights about design trends.

The AI Data Paranoia Edition

241 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🕹 Technology AI Ethics Data Privacy Machine Learning Consumer Rights
  1. AI companies often clarify that they do not use customer data for training purposes, especially in enterprise settings. This is important for businesses concerned about data privacy.
  2. There is still some confusion and debate among brands and agencies regarding how AI services handle their data. This shows a need for better understanding and communication on the topic.
  3. Different AI companies have varying terms of service, which can affect how user data is treated, highlighting the importance of reading the agreements carefully.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 39

241 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music Film Art Literature Society
  1. David Lynch is known for his strange movies, but he also had a love for his Scion xB car as he lived in Los Angeles.
  2. A man in Oregon shared that he created viral googly eye sculptures as a way to deal with heavy emotions.
  3. Many artists are covering the classic song 'A Long December' by Counting Crows, showcasing its lasting impact.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 36

241 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Food Media Photography Labor
  1. McDonald's self-service kiosks led to customers ordering more food than before. This shows technology can improve sales instead of just replacing workers.
  2. A piece explored how skillets are important during evacuations, highlighting their cultural and practical significance. It's a reminder of how everyday items can carry deeper meanings.
  3. An article showcased industrial photographer Christopher Payne's work, celebrating American labor. It emphasizes the beauty and honor in various types of work.