Everything Everywhere Daily: Questions and Answers – Volume 28
Host: Gary Arndt
Release Date: March 1, 2025
Podcast: Everything Everywhere Daily
Description: A daily podcast for intellectually curious individuals, Gary Arndt explores fascinating topics spanning history, science, mathematics, anthropology, archaeology, geography, and culture.
Introduction
In the Volume 28 episode of Everything Everywhere Daily, host Gary Arndt delves into a comprehensive Q&A session, addressing questions submitted by listeners from various platforms, including Facebook and Discord. This episode, released on March 1, 2025, captures Gary's expertise and provides insightful answers on a wide range of topics, showcasing his dedication to satisfying the intellectually curious audience.
Listener Questions and Host Responses
1. Control Over Podcast Advertisements
Questioner: Seth Louviere (Facebook Group)
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Seth inquired about the extent of Gary's control over the advertisements featured in the podcast. Gary explained that he has complete authority over "host-read" ads, crafting the copy himself, which allows for personalized and relevant advertising content. However, he has no control over "programmatic" ads, which are automatically inserted and can vary based on the listener's location or other factors. Gary emphasized the importance of specificity when addressing concerns about ads, as generic complaints are challenging to address without detailed information.
“If I am reading the ad, then I have control over doing it. These are known as host red ads in the industry.” – Gary Arndt
2. Storage and Backup Solutions for Photos and Podcast Episodes
Questioner: Aidan (Discord Server)
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Aidan asked about Gary’s methods for storing travel photographs and backing up podcast episodes, as well as the type of microphone he uses. Gary detailed his multi-layered backup strategy, which includes:
- Original Raw Images: Stored on a RAID array connected to his desktop and backed up to Backblaze cloud storage.
- Processed and Edited Images: Maintained on SmugMug.
For podcast recording, Gary utilizes the Shure SM7B microphone, highlighting its professional quality compared to standard laptop or smartphone microphones.
“The quality of a laptop or smartphone microphone just isn't good enough to do a serious podcast...” – Gary Arndt
3. Recording Equipment, Software, and Editing Process
Questioner: Sparky (Discord Server)
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Sparky sought information on the equipment and software Gary uses to record episodes, as well as his editing workflow. Gary outlined his straightforward setup:
- Software: Uses GarageBand for recording and editing, a free and user-friendly option.
- Editing Process: Minimal editing due to the scripted monologue format. He records and edits simultaneously, typically spending 20-30 minutes for 15 minutes of content.
- Post-Processing: Utilizes a program called Levelator to normalize audio levels before converting files to MP3 format.
Gary emphasized the cost-effectiveness of his tools, mentioning that the total expense for his recording and editing software is zero.
4. Avoidance of Certain Subject Matters
Questioner: Amy Elizabeth Morrison (Facebook Group)
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Amy questioned whether Gary avoids specific topics out of disinterest or disdain, noting the absence of episodes on insects. Gary responded that he doesn’t intentionally avoid subjects; if he doesn't cover a topic, it's simply due to a lack of initial interest or oversight. He acknowledged having covered insects, specifically mentioning an episode on the 17-year cicada.
“If I don't like the subject, I just won't do an episode on it. I have no particular aversion to insects.” – Gary Arndt
5. Abandoned Research Topics
Questioner: Ryan Brandon (Facebook Group)
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Ryan inquired about topics Gary began researching but ultimately decided not to pursue. Gary shared two instances:
- Serial Killer H.H. Holmes: Initially abandoned due to discovering the story significantly diverged from popular accounts. He later revisited the topic and released an episode.
- The Gang of Four in China: Halted because he struggled to present the complex narrative simply. Gary plans to return to this subject with a better approach.
6. Personal Interests and Recommendations
Questioner: Idemac (Discord Server)
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Idemac celebrated a personal achievement of reaching a one-year streak in learning Chinese on Duolingo and sought Gary’s recommendation for authentic Chinese dishes uncommon outside China. Gary congratulated Idemac and suggested exploring secret menus at Chinese restaurants. He advised asking in Chinese for these special menus to access more authentic and varied dishes not typically listed.
“If you want to try this the first time you go, just ask in Chinese if they have the special menu...” – Gary Arndt
7. Handling Unfamiliar Subject Matters
Questioner: Dale McKenzie (Facebook Group)
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Dale questioned how Gary handles topics he initially lacks knowledge about. Gary assured that he never records an episode without possessing a reasonable understanding of the subject. His research process involves:
- Initial Research: Reading articles to grasp the overarching narrative.
- In-Depth Study: Gathering specific data closer to recording.
- Time Investment: Varies based on the complexity of the topic and his interest level, with some subjects taking years to research adequately.
“There are some topics I can do off the top of my head, like the recent episode I did on economic statistics.” – Gary Arndt
8. Experience Visiting India
Questioner: Josue (Discord Server)
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Josue from India inquired about Gary’s visits to his home country. Gary confirmed having traveled to several regions, including Kerala, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, and expressed his intent to explore more diverse areas such as Kashmir and Bengal, acknowledging India's vast and varied cultural landscape.
“I have been to Kerala in the south, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. While I have been to India, there is a whole lot I have yet to do and see...” – Gary Arndt
9. Social Media Presence and Future Plans
Questioner: Geronimo Richeson (Facebook Group)
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Geronimo asked about the future of the podcast’s Instagram account and potential expansions on the platform. Gary responded that he had ceased active engagement on Instagram, despite its initial popularity, as it no longer effectively translated to podcast listenership. He prioritized focusing his efforts on producing quality episodes over maintaining an active social media presence.
“The reason why I have no desire to post on Instagram on a regular basis is because it would take time away that I could be spending on getting the next episode out the door...” – Gary Arndt
10. Genealogy Research
Questioner: Debbie Barton Thompson (Facebook Group)
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Debbie was curious about Gary’s exploration into his own genealogy. Gary revealed he is the 20th great-grandson of King Robert II of Scotland, although he noted the dilution of lineage over generations makes this connection statistically insignificant. He shared that tracing his family tree becomes increasingly challenging beyond the 17th century in Germany due to historical destruction from events like the Thirty Years' War.
“I am the 20th great grandson of King Robert II of Scotland, and just to give you an idea of how meaningless that is...” – Gary Arndt
11. Metric Calendar Proposal
Questioner: Christian Long (Facebook Group)
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Christian proposed the idea of a metric calendar, suggesting a restructuring with 10 months of 36 days each and additional days for holidays. Gary addressed the feasibility of this concept, explaining that natural time divisions like days, weeks, and months are deeply rooted in astronomical and historical contexts, making such a radical change impractical. He noted the absence of tangible benefits and the immense effort required to overhaul existing timekeeping systems.
“The basic problem with all of these proposals is that days, months and years do not divide evenly into each other...” – Gary Arndt
12. UNESCO World Heritage Sites vs. Tourist Attractions
Questioner: Giselle T. (Discord Server)
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Giselle asked whether UNESCO World Heritage sites overlap with popular tourist attractions or remain secluded gems, and if they are generally well-visited or obscure. Gary responded that approximately 10% of these sites are globally renowned landmarks like the Pyramids, Taj Mahal, and the Statue of Liberty. The remaining 90% tend to be lesser-known but equally fascinating sites that often remain under the radar unless specifically sought out by travelers. He praised the value of these hidden gems, stating most are worthwhile visits.
“There are a bunch of cities in Europe where the whole city is just lumped together as a UNESCO site. Venice, Paris, Rome, etc.” – Gary Arndt
Conclusion
The Volume 28 Q&A episode of Everything Everywhere Daily showcases Gary Arndt's extensive knowledge and thoughtful engagement with listener inquiries. From technical aspects of podcasting to personal experiences and broad intellectual topics, Gary provides comprehensive and insightful responses that reflect his commitment to fostering an informed and curious community.
Listeners interested in participating in future Q&A sessions are encouraged to join the Facebook group or the Discord server, both thriving communities with over 2,500 and nearly 600 members respectively. The episode concludes with a heartfelt listener review from Sebi 12sts, celebrating Gary's impact and nurturing a sense of community among the podcast’s audience.
Production Team:
- Executive Producer: Charles Daniel
- Associate Producers: Austin Okun and Cameron Kiefer
Listener Feedback:
Sebi 12sts (Apple Podcasts): “They write the best show Dear Gary, you, read my review in the Cambridge five episode and my family is so proud. I am about to turn 13 on February 28th, so thank you for the info. I am listening when I get home from school, so thank you so much. P.S. can you read this on my birthday? Thanks Debbie. I'm sorry I missed your birthday by a day, but given that it's a global show, when this comes out it will be your birthday somewhere on earth. So I'll call it a win. And happy birthday. You are now officially a teenager. Remember, if you leave a review or send me a boostogram, you too can have it right on the show.”
Stay curious and keep exploring with Everything Everywhere Daily!