Why are your Armpits so stinky?

Summary

Episode Summary: "Why are your Armpits so Stinky?"

Who Smarted? is a dynamic educational podcast tailored for kids, families, and educators, blending humor with insightful learning. In the episode titled "Why are your Armpits so Stinky?" released on February 3, 2025, the hosts embark on a whimsical yet informative exploration of armpits, uncovering their biological functions, the science behind sweat and odor, and even their role in human attraction.

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1. Introduction to the Smarties Awards Show ([00:02] – [02:08])

The episode kicks off with the Trusty Narrator setting a playful scene at the imagined "Smarties Awards," a humorous take on celebrating the brainiest "smarty pants" across various categories. This fictional awards show serves as an engaging backdrop for introducing the topic.

• Trusty Narrator:
  “Hey there, smarty pants... we'll give Smarty Awards to the smartest smarty pants in all different categories.” ([00:02])

2. Introducing Mr. Armpit ([02:08] – [03:19])

As the Trusty Narrator mingles among the attendees, he encounters Mr. Armpit—a personified character representing the human armpit. Their interaction highlights the often-overlooked importance of armpits.

• Mr. Armpit:
  “I doubt there's any pit more famous than me.” ([02:13])

• Trusty Narrator:
  “Despite knowing you my whole life, I don't actually know much about you at all.” ([02:43])

Mr. Armpit emphasizes his significance, suggesting that armpits play crucial roles beyond common perceptions.

3. Armpit Functions and Sweat Production ([03:19] – [10:44])

The conversation delves into the biological functions of armpits, focusing on sweat production and the role of lymph nodes.

• Mr. Armpit:
  “One of my biggest functions is to be the home to more than 20 lymph nodes.” ([07:03])

He explains that lymph nodes are vital for transporting oxygen, hormones, nutrients, and removing metabolic waste from the body.

The discussion then transitions to sweat glands:

• Mr. Armpit:
  “The kind of odor you produce is dependent on many things... the yellowing is actually caused by a chemical reaction between your sweat and the aluminum in your deodorant.” ([10:44])

• Trusty Narrator:
  “I'm sure, you just sat in the seat reserved for Mr. Pitt.” ([02:05])

They distinguish between eccrine glands, which produce odorless sweat for temperature control, and apocrine glands, which emit thicker sweat that can lead to body odor when mixed with bacteria.

4. Puberty and Armpit Hair ([14:42] – [15:35])

After a brief advertisement interlude, the episode resumes with an exploration of armpit hair growth during puberty.

• Mr. Armpit:
  “Armpit hair usually begins to grow on women between 10 and 12, and on men between 11 and 14.” ([14:42])

The hosts discuss the purposes of armpit hair, including reducing friction, aiding in sweat production, and its role in the overall regulation of body temperature.

5. The Role of Armpit Odor in Attraction ([15:35] – [16:17])

One of the episode's most intriguing segments covers the potential role of armpit odor in human attraction.

• Mr. Armpit:
  “The odor you release from your armpit may help you attract someone to you.” ([15:35])

He explains that pheromones in sweat can influence social and romantic interactions, suggesting that armpit odor may play a subconscious role in human connections.

6. Conclusion and Awards Ceremony ([16:17] – [17:08])

The episode culminates with a humorous awards ceremony where Mr. Armpit is celebrated for his contributions, underscoring the episode's educational yet entertaining tone.

• Mr. Armpit:
  “It's probably going to me for all the help I've been giving humans for so long.” ([16:25])

• Chet Nickerson:
  “Armpits are awesome.” ([16:50])

7. Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Trusty Narrator:
  “Despite knowing you my whole life, I don't actually know much about you at all.” ([02:43])

• Mr. Armpit:
  “One of my biggest functions is to be the home to more than 20 lymph nodes.” ([07:03])

• Mr. Armpit:
  “The odor you release from your armpit may help you attract someone to you.” ([15:35])

8. Educational Insights and Conclusions

This episode of Who Smarted? masterfully combines humor with factual information to educate young listeners about the often-underappreciated functions of armpits. By personifying the armpit and engaging in a lively dialogue, the hosts make complex biological concepts accessible and entertaining. Key takeaways include:

• Biological Functions: Armpits house numerous lymph nodes essential for bodily functions and contain sweat glands crucial for temperature regulation.

• Sweat and Odor: Understanding the difference between eccrine and apocrine sweat glands explains why armpits can become odorous.

• Puberty Changes: The growth of armpit hair during puberty serves functional purposes beyond aesthetics.

• Social and Biological Roles: Armpit odor may play a role in human attraction through the release of pheromones, adding a fascinating layer to social interactions.

9. Production Credits

• Written by: James Butler
• Voiced by: Taya Garland, Adam Tex Davis, Jerry Colber
• Technical Direction and Sound Design: Josh Hahn
• Recorded and Mixed at: Relic Room Studios
• Associate Producer: Max Kamasky
• Theme Song: Brian Suarez (lyrics by Adam Tex Davis)
• Produced by: Adam Tex Davis and Jerry Colbert
• Produced by: Atomic Entertainment

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Who Smarted? continues to shine as a top educational resource by transforming everyday subjects into delightful learning adventures. This episode not only answers the curious question about armpit odor but also instills a deeper appreciation for the body's intricate systems.

Transcript

[Trusty Narrator]

Hey there, smarty pants. Trusty narrator here. You'll never guess where I am. I'm at the biggest awards show on the planet. No, not the Emmys, Oscars, Grammys or Tonys. I'm talking about the Smarties, where we give Smarty Awards to the smartiest smarty pants in all different categories. Okay, real talk, there is no Smartie Awards yet. But there will be. But for now, let's just go with it. Okay? Cool. And who should I see working the red carpet? Why, it's none other than the world class reporter and commentator, Chet Nickerson. Take it away, Chet.

[Chet Nickerson]

Thanks, trusty narrator. This is Chet Nickerson reporting live from outside the Smarty Awards. As you can hear, the auditorium behind me is full filling up with smarty pants. Including some celebrity smarty pants. I see Smartie Eilish Dwayne the Rocket Scientist Johnson and the cast of Spongebob Smartypants.

[Trusty Narrator]

Wow, this imaginary awards show is blowing my mind. I'm going to make my way inside the auditorium to see who I can see. Hmph. I see Smarty B up ahead. And what's this? Oh my gosh. There's a sign on one of the seats reserved for Mr. Pitt. Could it be Brainy Brad Pitt? I can't believe I'm finally going to meet one of my favorite actors.

[Chet Nickerson]

Incredible. I just saw Taylor Swift thinking. But I too am a big fan of Mr. Pitt.

[Trusty Narrator]

Wait, here comes someone. Could it be. No, it's definitely not Brainy Brad Pitt. Oh, excuse me, sir. You just sat in the seat reserved for Mr. Pitt.

[Mr. Armpit]

Yep, that's me. I'm Mr. Pitt.

[Trusty Narrator]

Oh, that's a coincidence. You have the same last name. But you see, it's reserved for the very famous Mr. Pitt.

[Mr. Armpit]

I doubt there's any pit more famous than me.

[Trusty Narrator]

I seriously doubt that. Brainy Brad Pitt is pretty, pretty famous.

[Mr. Armpit]

Yeah, well, everyone in the world knows me because I'm a part of them. In fact, they have two of me.

[Chet Nickerson]

Trusty narrator Chet Nickerson here. Are you talking to Mr. Armpit?

[Mr. Armpit]

That's right. Chet Nickerson knows what's up.

[Trusty Narrator]

Oh, so you're in Armpit. I guess that explains the smell.

[Mr. Armpit]

Nice to meet you too. Trust a narrator. I gotta say, you sound taller on your podcast.

[Trusty Narrator]

Thanks. Well, I suppose an Armpit might be more famous than a Brad Pitt. But I gotta say, despite knowing you my whole life, I don't actually know much about you at all.

[Mr. Armpit]

You're not alone. There's a lot people don't know about me. To be honest, most people take me for granted, it's the pits. But the truth is, I do some pretty important stuff.

[Trusty Narrator]

So, smarty pants, what exactly do armpits do? Why do you have them? Why are they so hairy? And why do they smell?

[Mr. Armpit]

You sure that's not you?

[Trusty Narrator]

I'm sure. It's time for a big whiff of science, history, and armpits.

[Chet Nickerson]

On who smarted, who's smarted? Who's smart? Is it you? Is it me? Is it science? Or history? Listen up, everyone. We make smarting lots of fun. On who's smart?

[Trusty Narrator]

And Psst. Hey, smarty. Families, in particular, the parents and adults listening. If there's one thing we all have in common, it's navigating the world of money. I hate to say it, but money is the number one thing that people in relationships argue over. Yet money is also something most people have a hard time communicating about. Which is why I'm so happy to recommend the Money for Couples podcast, hosted by Ramit Sethi. In each episode, Ramit helps couples stop fighting over money, improve communication, simplify budgeting, manage debt, and start building a shared financial future. Money for Couples offers real, actionable advice with stories from real couples facing the same financial challenges you might be dealing with. Like a recent episode, I heard about a couple that was constantly in debt because one of them couldn't stop spending money and avoided talking about it. Ramit approaches each situation without judgment, but rather with good, solid advice on how to educate yourself about money and build better financial habits. Oh, and Ramit even offers amazing tips on how to educate your kids about healthy money habits. So search for Money for couples wherever you're listening to who's Smarted? And start building your rich life today. Okay, smarty pants, on the count of three, I want you to raise your hand like you're in class and want to ask a question. It can be either hand. Ready? 1, 2, 3. Is your hand raised? Good. Now turn your head towards your raised arm. You should be able to stare right at your armpit. Say hi to your armpit. I'm guessing this is the first time you've ever spoken to your armpit, but you really should be more friendly to your armpit. After all, your armpit does a lot for you. But what exactly does it do? Do you think your armpit A oversees the regulation and filtration of lymph fluid, B cools your body, or C helps you attract a romantic partner? If you said A, you're right, but if you said B, you're also right. Oh, and if you said C, you're right, too. Also, if your arm is still raised, you can put it back down. Sorry about that, smarty pants. Uh oh, the Smarties is starting. I have to do an opening monologue, but I want to learn more about the armpit.

[Chet Nickerson]

No worries. Trusty narrator Chet Nickerson has you covered. You go deal with the awards while I interview my new friend, Mr. Not Brad Armpit.

[Trusty Narrator]

Sounds good. Thanks, Chet.

[Chet Nickerson]

So, Mr. Armpit, tell me and the Smartypants a little about yourself.

[Mr. Armpit]

Certainly. I'm one of the warmest parts of your body. I like long walks on the beach with the fresh breeze on my armpit hair. And I absolutely love.

[Chet Nickerson]

That sounds wonderful, but I was more interested in the things you do for the human body, Mr. Armpit.

[Mr. Armpit]

Oh, right, right. Well, one of my biggest functions is to be the home to more than 20 lymph nodes.

[Chet Nickerson]

Lymph nodes? You mean like those fantasy creatures that live in the woods?

[Mr. Armpit]

No, that's a nymph. I'm home to lymph nodes. L, Y, M, P, H. Lymph is a colorless fluid containing white blood cells, which basically gives the tissues in your body a bath. Lymph transports oxygen, hormones and nutrients throughout your body while removing metabolic waste from cells.

[Chet Nickerson]

Ah, much more useful than woodland fairies.

[Mr. Armpit]

Yes, the lymph drains through the lymphatic system into your bloodstream. There are different lymph nodes all over your body, including in your neck, chest, pelvis, groin, and the back of your abdomen. In particular, the axillary lymph nodes are located inside me. Your armpit.

[Chet Nickerson]

I see. And what do the axillary lymph nodes do?

[Mr. Armpit]

The axillary lymph nodes are like the system manager overseeing the regulation and filtration of all the lymph throughout your upper limbs and back.

[Chet Nickerson]

Fascinating. Who knew you had such a big job to do?

[Mr. Armpit]

That's not all. Shit. I've got a few more tricks up my sleeve. Get it? Tricks up my sleeve because I'm an armpit?

[Chet Nickerson]

I'm guessing you're not here for a comedy award.

[Mr. Armpit]

Oh, yeah. I think these armpit farts might change your mind.

[Chet Nickerson]

Wonderful. Those are never not funny.

[Trusty Narrator]

Okay, I'm back. What did I miss? I see and hear. Well, at least they don't smell.

[Mr. Armpit]

You want me to cool it?

[Chet Nickerson]

No, no, please, just a few more.

[Mr. Armpit]

Actually, I meant, do you want me to cool down your body?

[Trusty Narrator]

You can do that?

[Mr. Armpit]

I sure can.

[Trusty Narrator]

How?

[Mr. Armpit]

See those big round stains on your shirt under your arms?

[Trusty Narrator]

Uh, no, really, I can see them.

[Chet Nickerson]

They're like the size of volleyballs.

[Trusty Narrator]

Okay, fine. I have some sweaty pit stains. Everyone gets them.

[Mr. Armpit]

Exactly. Those big, round sweaty pit stains are thanks to me.

[Trusty Narrator]

Gee, thanks a lot.

[Mr. Armpit]

You're very welcome.

[Trusty Narrator]

I was being sarcastic.

[Mr. Armpit]

Well, you shouldn't be. Those sweaty pits are helping you.

[Trusty Narrator]

Yeah, Helping me be embarrassed.

[Mr. Armpit]

I think you'd be more embarrassed if you overheated and were unable to walk, stand or function correctly. You see, when your body warms up due to physical activity or, say, being nervous to interview a famous celebrity like me, your armpits release sweat. Sweating is your body's way of cooling you down. And a lot of that sweat is produced in your armpit.

[Chet Nickerson]

Why the armpit?

[Mr. Armpit]

Because your armpit has a high concentration of two types of sweat glands, eccrine and apocrine. Eccrine glands are more abundant or plentiful throughout your body and produce an odorless liquid that aids in temperature control. Apocrine glands found in areas with more hair follicles like your armpits or scalp, emit a thicker liquid when the fluid mixes with the bacteria on the surface of your armpit. You get what?

[Trusty Narrator]

What do you get? I'll give you a hint. Did you say body odor? Good job.

[Mr. Armpit]

The kind of odor you produce is dependent on many things, including what you ate, drank or any medication you may take. And those yellowish pit stains on your shirt. Trusty narrator. Don't blame your diet or sweat. The yellowing is actually caused by a chemical reaction between your sweat and the aluminum in your deodorant.

[Trusty Narrator]

Gotcha. But let's be clear. I'm not nervous talking to you.

[Mr. Armpit]

Sure, trusty. Sure.

[Trusty Narrator]

Well, I must say, you sure do a lot more than I thought you did, Mr. Armpit.

[Mr. Armpit]

But wait, there's more.

[Chet Nickerson]

More armpit farts? Come on, smarty pants, do some with me. Just cup your arm over your armpit and wave your arm up and down like a chicken wing. Here we go. It's never not funny. Trusty narrator. You've gotta try this.

[Trusty Narrator]

I'm good. I'm curious what else armpits can do.

[Chet Nickerson]

Yes, me, too.

[Mr. Armpit]

I probably helped you meet your romantic partner.

[Chet Nickerson]

I'm not so sure about that. My wife thinks armpit farts are silly.

[Mr. Armpit]

No, not like that. Believe it or not, it has to do with smell.

[Trusty Narrator]

Smell? Hmm. How can a smelly armpit help someone meet a romantic partner? The answer, right after this quick break. Hi, guys. Hey, it's Trusty. Today's episode is brought to you by Squarespace. And I need to tell you about their new Design Intelligence feature because it's a game changer for anyone who's been putting off creating a website. Look, I know how intimidating tech can feel, but Squarespace's AI powered design system literally transforms your basic ideas into a beautiful professional website. We've used Squarespace to build websites here at Atomic and what I love is that that it combines AI tech with their decades of design expertise. You answer a few simple questions and it creates a fully customized site that actually looks good. No more staring at a blank screen wondering where to start, and no need to spend thousands of dollars getting a site designed for a passion project or experimental idea. Plus, their payment system makes it super easy to get paid for your services. Whether you're selling courses, booking consulting sessions, or offering downloads, they've got all the popular payment options like Apple Pay and Klarna built right in. Head to squarespace.com smarted for a free trial and use code smarted to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain. Hey smarty parents, I love Green Chef because of how absolutely easy the meals are to make and how every night it feels like we're eating at a restaurant right at home. The variety is excellent and includes meals for special diets like keto gluten free and calorie smart with pre portioned ingredients, there's less prep, less mess and more time to enjoy delicious meals. Green Chef's easy to follow directions means my kitchen phobic family members actually cook when we get our Green Chef kit, and it's a great way to get your kids involved in the kitchen too. Plus, Green Chef is owned by HelloFresh, which lets me switch between the brands for even more variety. And now my listeners can enjoy both at a discount with me. Thrive all year with clean, easy meals from Green chef. Go to greenchef.com smartedfree and use code Smarted Free to get free salads for two months plus 50% off your first box. That's greenchef.com smarted free and use code Smarted Free to get free salads for two months plus 50% off your first box. Green Chef the number one meal kit for eating well. Now back to who smarted Smarty pants. If you've ever seen an adult armpit, you probably noticed some. What did you say? Hair? That's right. Both adult men and women will have hairy armpits unless they shave it off.

[Mr. Armpit]

So does armpit hair begin to grow sooner for men or women? If you said man, I'm sorry, you're wrong. Armpit hair usually begins to grow on women between 10 and 12, and on men between 11 and 14.

[Trusty Narrator]

Obviously, everyone is different, and some people start sooner or later than others. It mostly has to do with genetics. And when you enter puberty, the big question is, why do we grow hair there at all?

[Mr. Armpit]

For one thing, it helps prevent skin to skin contact. For another, it helps you sweat more, which is good for regulating your body temperature. But there's also a crazy biological reason for having armpit hair, which is? The odor you release from your armpit may help you attract someone to you.

[Trusty Narrator]

That's crazy. Nobody wants to smell my stinky armpits.

[Mr. Armpit]

You'd be surprised. Many scientists believe the odors you release contain fertilizer pheromones, or natural chemicals that attract other humans to you. These pheromones are released from many different areas of your body, including armpits, back sweat, and earwax. But men's armpits are particularly potent. In studies, people, especially women, smelling odor from men's armpits reported feeling less tense and more relaxed. Who knows? This may have helped Chet meet his wife.

[Chet Nickerson]

It definitely wasn't this.

[Mr. Armpit]

Probably not.

[Trusty Narrator]

Ooh, they're about to give out the lifetime achievement award.

[Mr. Armpit]

It's probably going to me for all the help I've been giving humans for so long.

[Trusty Narrator]

No offense, but I'm pretty sure the award would go to brainy Brad Pitt. Before an armpit.

[Mr. Armpit]

Few say so.

[Chet Nickerson]

Look on stage. Brad Pitt is giving out an award.

[Mr. Armpit]

And the winner is the armpit.

[Trusty Narrator]

I don't believe it.

[Chet Nickerson]

I do. Armpits are awesome.

[Mr. Armpit]

Thanks, Jet. There's just one problem. I didn't write a speech.

[Trusty Narrator]

Uh oh, what are you gonna do?

[Mr. Armpit]

I'll just wing it.

[Chet Nickerson]

Yes.

[Trusty Narrator]

A double shout out to smarty fans Kayson and Holden in sublet Kansas. You wrote to tell us how you love smarting with us in the car with your mom and love learning new facts and quizzing your dad. You even sing along with a theme song. Wow. This is all just music to my ears, smarty pants. This episode, Armpits, was written by James Butler and voiced by Taya Garland, Adam Tex Davis and Jerry Colber. Technical direction and sound design by Josh Hahn. Whosmarted is recorded and mixed at the Relic Room studios. Our associate producer is Max Kamasky. The theme song is by Brian Suarez with lyrics written and performed by Adam Tex Davis. Who Smarted was created and produced by Adam Tex Davis and Jerry Colbert. This has been an Atomic Entertainment production.