Clean Your Plate - Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities

Summary

Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities: "Clean Your Plate"

Release Date: April 10, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Clean Your Plate," hosted by Erin Menke and Aaron Mahnke of iHeartPodcasts and Grim & Mild, listeners are treated to a compelling exploration of the hidden wonders and sometimes unsettling aspects of our world. The episode delves into two distinct yet equally fascinating narratives: the intriguing role of dermistid beetles in museum preservation and the heroic efforts of Andre De Jong during World War II.

1. The Hidden Labor of Dermistid Beetles in Museums

Timestamp: 00:42 – 09:20

Erin Menke opens the first segment by highlighting the often-overlooked intricacies of museum work. She emphasizes that museums are not just repositories of art and history but dynamic centers for culture, learning, and research. Menke introduces listeners to an unusual yet indispensable "employee" of many natural history museums: the dermistid beetle.

Key Points:

Function and Importance: Dermistid beetles play a crucial role in preserving animal bones. Traditional cleaning methods using human tools risk damaging fragile specimens. Instead, museums deploy dermistid beetles, both larvae and adults, to meticulously remove flesh from bones without causing harm. Menke explains, “Both larvae and fully grown beetles eat the flesh from the bones until they're spotless and ready to exhibit” (02:15).
Historical Context: The practice dates back to at least 1895, with some theories attributing its origin to Charles Dean Bunker at Kansas University. However, the widespread adoption suggests that others may have independently discovered the benefits of using these beetles.
Selective Feeding: Dermistid beetles are remarkably selective, avoiding preserved materials like fur, feathers, or organs, and steering clear of formaldehyde-treated specimens. This selectivity minimizes the risk of damage to completed exhibits. Menke notes, “They won't touch anything that's been preserved, like fur, feathers or organs” (04:50).
Challenges and Adaptations: Despite their utility, dermistid beetles can be problematic. Strains known as bow beetles infest violin strings made from animal guts, causing distress to musicians globally. Additionally, their presence in unexpected places poses challenges. Menke highlights their forensic importance: “When a decomposing human body is found in the wilderness, forensic analysts can use the life cycle of the beetles as a way of determining the time of death” (07:30).
Ethical and Practical Considerations: The use of dermistid beetles underscores the delicate balance museums maintain between preservation and ethical treatment of specimens. Menke concludes, “Even the gross little insects have a role to play. And sometimes they can be the most curious of lab assistants” (09:00).

Notable Quote:

Erin Menke: “What makes dermistid beetles especially useful is that they're surprisingly picky eaters for what they do.” (04:50)

2. Andre De Jong and the Comet Line: A Tale of Courage and Deception

Timestamp: 09:20 – End

Transitioning seamlessly, Erin Menke narrates the extraordinary story of Andre De Jong, a pivotal figure in the Comet Line—a clandestine network that aided Allied soldiers in escaping Nazi-occupied Belgium during World War II.

Key Points:

Andre De Jong’s Early Inspiration: Born in 1916 in Belgium, Andre was inspired by Edith Cavell, a nurse who aided hundreds of Allied soldiers during World War I. This inspiration fueled her commitment to resisting Nazi occupation. Menke recounts, “Andre was born in Belgium in 1916 and from a young age she knew that she wanted to help her people” (09:40).
Formation of the Comet Line: In response to the 1940 German invasion, Andre joined the Red Cross and the Belgian Resistance. She, alongside dedicated friends, established the Comet Line—a 500-mile underground route from Belgium to Spain, meticulously designed to ferry Allied soldiers to safety. Menke describes their operations: “They'd use homes as safe houses and with extreme care, they would lead the soldiers 500 miles through France, cross the Pyrenees and get them to Spain” (12:05).
Operational Challenges: The Comet Line faced constant threats from German patrols, leading to perilous detours. Many conspirators were captured or killed, including Andre’s father. Menke emphasizes the immense risk and resilience required: “Through trial and error, Andre and her friends soon found that this was easier said than done” (13:45).
Leadership and Deception: Andre’s unassuming appearance often worked to her advantage. When captured in 1943, her petite stature and youthful looks led the Gestapo to underestimate her, allowing her to survive Ravensbruck concentration camp by blending in with other malnourished prisoners. Menke highlights, “Andre’s small size and unassuming looks saved her once again” (17:30).
Legacy and Impact: Despite the eventual collapse of the Comet Line, Andre’s efforts led to the successful rescue of over 800 Allied soldiers. Post-war, she continued her humanitarian work, serving as a nurse in leper colonies across Africa until her passing in 2007. Menke reflects on her legacy: “Andre's story is a reminder that looks can be deceiving” (19:55).

Notable Quote:

Erin Menke: “Despite all this though, Andre's escape route gained a reputation for being the quickest way home, which gained it the nickname the Comet Line.” (14:25)

Conclusion

Aaron Mahnke wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to subscribe and stay curious about the myriad curiosities our world holds. The episode "Clean Your Plate" seamlessly intertwines the biological intricacies of museum preservation with the human stories of bravery and ingenuity, showcasing the diverse tapestry of curiosities that define our existence.

Final Thoughts:

Aaron Mahnke: “I hope you've enjoyed today's guided tour of the Cabinet of Curiosities. Subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts or learn more about the show by visiting Curiosities Podcast.” (20:10)

Overall Summary

"Clean Your Plate" offers a captivating journey through the lesser-known facets of history and science. From the tiny but mighty dermistid beetles safeguarding museum treasures to the extraordinary bravery of Andre De Jong orchestrating the Comet Line, the episode underscores the unexpected heroes and mechanisms that shape our understanding of the world. Erin Menke and Aaron Mahnke masterfully weave these narratives, inviting listeners to appreciate both the microscopic and monumental elements that constitute our Cabinet of Curiosities.

Summary

Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities: "Clean Your Plate"

Release Date: April 10, 2025

Introduction

1. The Hidden Labor of Dermistid Beetles in Museums

Timestamp: 00:42 – 09:20

Key Points:

Function and Importance: Dermistid beetles play a crucial role in preserving animal bones. Traditional cleaning methods using human tools risk damaging fragile specimens. Instead, museums deploy dermistid beetles, both larvae and adults, to meticulously remove flesh from bones without causing harm. Menke explains, “Both larvae and fully grown beetles eat the flesh from the bones until they're spotless and ready to exhibit” (02:15).
Historical Context: The practice dates back to at least 1895, with some theories attributing its origin to Charles Dean Bunker at Kansas University. However, the widespread adoption suggests that others may have independently discovered the benefits of using these beetles.
Selective Feeding: Dermistid beetles are remarkably selective, avoiding preserved materials like fur, feathers, or organs, and steering clear of formaldehyde-treated specimens. This selectivity minimizes the risk of damage to completed exhibits. Menke notes, “They won't touch anything that's been preserved, like fur, feathers or organs” (04:50).
Challenges and Adaptations: Despite their utility, dermistid beetles can be problematic. Strains known as bow beetles infest violin strings made from animal guts, causing distress to musicians globally. Additionally, their presence in unexpected places poses challenges. Menke highlights their forensic importance: “When a decomposing human body is found in the wilderness, forensic analysts can use the life cycle of the beetles as a way of determining the time of death” (07:30).
Ethical and Practical Considerations: The use of dermistid beetles underscores the delicate balance museums maintain between preservation and ethical treatment of specimens. Menke concludes, “Even the gross little insects have a role to play. And sometimes they can be the most curious of lab assistants” (09:00).

Notable Quote:

Erin Menke: “What makes dermistid beetles especially useful is that they're surprisingly picky eaters for what they do.” (04:50)

2. Andre De Jong and the Comet Line: A Tale of Courage and Deception

Timestamp: 09:20 – End

Key Points:

Andre De Jong’s Early Inspiration: Born in 1916 in Belgium, Andre was inspired by Edith Cavell, a nurse who aided hundreds of Allied soldiers during World War I. This inspiration fueled her commitment to resisting Nazi occupation. Menke recounts, “Andre was born in Belgium in 1916 and from a young age she knew that she wanted to help her people” (09:40).
Formation of the Comet Line: In response to the 1940 German invasion, Andre joined the Red Cross and the Belgian Resistance. She, alongside dedicated friends, established the Comet Line—a 500-mile underground route from Belgium to Spain, meticulously designed to ferry Allied soldiers to safety. Menke describes their operations: “They'd use homes as safe houses and with extreme care, they would lead the soldiers 500 miles through France, cross the Pyrenees and get them to Spain” (12:05).
Operational Challenges: The Comet Line faced constant threats from German patrols, leading to perilous detours. Many conspirators were captured or killed, including Andre’s father. Menke emphasizes the immense risk and resilience required: “Through trial and error, Andre and her friends soon found that this was easier said than done” (13:45).
Leadership and Deception: Andre’s unassuming appearance often worked to her advantage. When captured in 1943, her petite stature and youthful looks led the Gestapo to underestimate her, allowing her to survive Ravensbruck concentration camp by blending in with other malnourished prisoners. Menke highlights, “Andre’s small size and unassuming looks saved her once again” (17:30).
Legacy and Impact: Despite the eventual collapse of the Comet Line, Andre’s efforts led to the successful rescue of over 800 Allied soldiers. Post-war, she continued her humanitarian work, serving as a nurse in leper colonies across Africa until her passing in 2007. Menke reflects on her legacy: “Andre's story is a reminder that looks can be deceiving” (19:55).

Notable Quote:

Erin Menke: “Despite all this though, Andre's escape route gained a reputation for being the quickest way home, which gained it the nickname the Comet Line.” (14:25)

Conclusion

Final Thoughts:

Aaron Mahnke: “I hope you've enjoyed today's guided tour of the Cabinet of Curiosities. Subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts or learn more about the show by visiting Curiosities Podcast.” (20:10)

Overall Summary