Explore every episode of the podcast Twenty Thousand Hertz
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eurovision Song Contest: Inside the Gimmicks & Glamour | 13 Jul 2026 | 00:33:56 | |
For millions of people, Eurovision is a cultural institution, and one of the biggest live television events on Earth. But for many Americans, it remains a complete mystery. In this episode, producer Andrew Anderson takes Dallas and Grace on a joyful crash course through the history, music, controversies, and glorious absurdity of the Eurovision Song Contest. Along the way, they discover which music superstars got their start in Eurovision, how receiving “nul points” can ruin or launch a career, and what this competition reveals about Europe itself. Featuring “Doctor Eurovision” Paul Jordan. | |||
| John Williams: A Composer’s Legacy | 15 Jun 2026 | 00:36:21 | |
In our last episode, we followed composer John Williams from his childhood to his 1970s run with Steven Spielberg and George Lucas. Now, we pick up the story as John enters an era of seemingly impossible success… from Raiders of the Lost Ark to Home Alone, Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List, and beyond. In this episode, we explore how John revived the grand orchestral score, conquered the classical music world, and crafted melodies that millions of people can instantly recognize. Along the way, journalist Tim Greiving reveals the habits, quirks, and creative brilliance of this living legend. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Find out how you can get the iPhone 17 Pro at no cost with an eligible trade in at att.com/iphone, or by visiting an AT&T store. Visit quo.com/20k for 20% of your first 6 months of business phone software. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month Shopify trial at shopify.com/20k.
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| When Everything Stopped, He Started Listening | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:25:14 | |
David Jeffers has always understood the world through sound. As a kid, he bounced beats between tape decks and built speaker boxes from spare parts. After college, he founded an underground hip hop label. Then came the day that split his life in two. And in the quiet that followed, David started listening more deeply… and piece by piece, he built a new life, guided not by what he lost, but what he could create. For news about Quad Life, the upcoming documentary about David, follow Quad_Life_Doc on Instagram. Explore David’s sound design work and book with him at quadriphonicsound.com. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Explore incredible speakers, soundbars, and more at sonos.com. Get 3 months of free payroll at gusto.com/20k. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month Shopify trial at shopify.com/20k. Visit quo.com/20k for 20% of your first 6 months of business phone software.
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| The Waterphone: Hollywood’s spookiest sound effect | 13 Apr 2022 | 00:24:10 | |
For nearly half a century, one eerie sound has been showing up again and again in movies and TV shows. It’s typically used when something spooky or mysterious happens—and it can be heard in Poltergeist, The Matrix, Let the Right One In, and countless episodes of Unsolved Mysteries. So where did this strange sound come from, and how did it spread across Hollywood? This story comes from the podcast Every Little Thing. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Subscribe to Every Little Thing in Spotify. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp online therapy at betterhelp.com/20k. Visit zocdoc.com/20k to download the Zocdoc app and sign up for free. Get one month free of Headspace at headspace.com/20k. Find coupon codes on over 30,000 sites with Honey. Sign up for free at joinhoney.com/20k. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/liquidterror
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| Mind the Gap: NYC & London’s iconic transit voices | 30 Mar 2022 | 00:32:24 | |
The voices of subway and train announcements are deeply ingrained in peoples’ lives. Many of us hear them every day, for years on end. And yet, hardly anyone knows who those voices belong to. In this episode, we uncover the human stories behind two of the most iconic transit systems in the world: the New York City Subway, and the London Tube. Featuring NYC Subway announcer Charlie Pellett and Tube announcer Elinor Hamilton. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Subscribe to Tales from the Tannoy wherever you get your podcasts. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp online therapy at betterhelp.com/20k. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications, and quicker hiring times. Get 83% off Surfshark VPN plus an extra 3 months free at surfshark.deals/20k, or use promo code 20K. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/mindthegap
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| Hidden Hitmakers: The unsung heroes behind pop’s biggest hits | 16 Mar 2022 | 00:30:42 | |
The names of pop and rock stars are known by millions of people around the world, but the people who actually write their music often stay in the shadows. In this episode, we peel back the curtain on the songwriters behind some of the biggest hits of the last forty years, and find out how this unseen part of the industry really works. Along the way, we’ll get the inside scoop about working with KISS, Bon Jovi, Ricky Martin, Snoop Dogg, Puff Daddy, and more. Featuring songwriter Desmond Child and rapper/songwriter Gizzle. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp online therapy at betterhelp.com/20k. Visit zocdoc.com/20k to download the Zocdoc app and sign up for free. Get one month free of Headspace at headspace.com/20k. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/hiddenhitmakers
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| Happy Little Episode: The soothing voice of Bob Ross | 02 Mar 2022 | 00:41:21 | |
In the forty years since The Joy of Painting first started airing, Bob Ross has become a cultural icon. His gentle, soothing voice is instantly recognizable, and still gives comfort to millions of people around the world. But despite his unshakably cheery demeanor, Bob’s life wasn’t always easy. This is his story. Featuring Sarah Strohl, Executive Assistant at Bob Ross Inc., and Kristin Congdon, author of Happy Clouds, Happy Trees: The Bob Ross Phenomenon. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications, and quicker hiring times. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp online therapy at betterhelp.com/20k. Find coupon codes on over 30,000 sites with Honey. Sign up for free at joinhoney.com/20k. Get 83% off Surfshark VPN plus an extra 3 months free at surfshark.deals/20k, or use promo code 20K. Watch The Sounds of Space, a collaboration between Twenty Thousand Hertz and melodysheep. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/happylittleepisode
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| Pirate Radio: Britain’s AM rebels of the ’60s | 16 Feb 2022 | 00:33:23 | |
In the 1960s, the BBC had a vise grip on British radio, and rarely played the pop and rock music that was all the rage. So a group of rebellious radio DJs decided to give the people what they wanted, and started broadcasting popular music from boats stationed in international waters. Soon enough, these young DJs became national superstars… until the British government decided it was time to sink these pirates once and for all. This story comes from the History This Week podcast. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Get 83% off Surfshark VPN plus an extra 3 months free at surfshark.deals/20k, or use promo code 20K. Get your free business banking account at banknovo.com/hertz. Listen to Songs That Shook the Planet at audible.com/songs Subscribe to History This Week wherever you get your podcasts. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/pirateradio
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| Being Dallas Taylor: Meeting my name twins | 02 Feb 2022 | 00:40:29 | |
Your name is so much more than the sound that people call you by. It’s an entire human identity, distilled into a few syllables. So what do six people who share the exact same name have in common? It turns out, much more than you might expect. Follow Dallas down the rabbit hole as he speaks to name expert Laura Wattenberg and five other people named Dallas Taylor. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications, and quicker hiring times. Visit monday.com/podcast for your free two-week trial. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/beingdallastaylor
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| Sul Sul! Behind the gibberish language of The Sims | 19 Jan 2022 | 00:25:21 | |
When The Sims was first being developed, the creators faced a problem. They knew they wanted these characters to talk and interact, but they were worried that using a real language would quickly get repetitive and annoying. So, they decided to make one up. This is the story of Simlish: How it was created, why it works so well, and why artists ranging from The Black Eyed Peas to The Flaming Lips have re-recorded their songs in this gibberish language. Featuring Sims Designer & Voiceover Director Claire Curtin, Composer & Audio Director Jerry Martin, voice actress Krizia Bajos, and Youtuber Rachybop. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Subscribe to Rachel's Youtube channels, Rachybop and Rachybop Gaming. Check out SONOS at sonos.com. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sulsul
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| Guess That Sound 2021: Underunderstood | 15 Dec 2021 | 00:37:57 | |
For our second annual Mystery Sound competition, we’ve rounded up the 20 best sounds from the past year, and invited the hosts of Underunderstood to test their ears in a competitive guessing game. So bust out those Q-tips, turn up your headphones, and prepare to guess along as we find out who will be the ultimate Mystery Sound Champion. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Subscribe to Underunderstood wherever you get your podcasts. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Visit zocdoc.com/hertz to download the Zocdoc app and sign up for free. Get your donation of up to $250 matched at givewell.org. Just select "Podcast" at checkout, then enter “Twenty Thousand Hertz.” Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/auralexam
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| The Static Angel: How HBO perfected its sonic identity | 01 Dec 2021 | 00:25:44 | |
In part 2 of our series on HBO, we explore the tough questions that the company faced in the digital era: Are people still willing to sit through a 90-second theme song before they watch a movie? Does the sound of analog TV static even make sense to younger viewers? Could the company change with the times without losing the nostalgia they had built around their key sounds? Featuring composer Ferdinand Jay Smith, former HBO Executive Vice President Bruce Richmond, HBO and HBO Max Head of Brand Marketing Jason Mulderig, and Made Music Studio Creative Director Mickey Alexander. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Get your donation of up to $250 matched at givewell.org. Just select "Podcast" at checkout, then enter “Twenty Thousand Hertz.” Check out SONOS at sonos.com. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/hbo20
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| It’s Not TV: Behind HBO’s legendary sounds | 17 Nov 2021 | 00:23:23 | |
In the 1980s, every movie that aired on HBO began with a truly epic theme song—a sweeping orchestral piece that triggers instant nostalgia for anyone who grew up with it. Then in the 90s, HBO introduced a 5-second audio logo for their original content. Today, we associate that sound with some of the most groundbreaking TV shows of all time. In this episode, we reveal the story behind the creation of these two iconic sounds. Featuring composer Ferdinand Jay Smith and former HBO Executive Vice President Bruce Richmond. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Visit zocdoc.com/hertz to download the Zocdoc app and sign up for free. Check out SONOS at sonos.com. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/itsnottvitshbo
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| The State of the 20K Multiverse™ | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:34:34 | |
What happens when a podcast about sound gets into video? In this special behind-the-scenes episode, producer Grace East flips the script and interviews Dallas about his leap into visual storytelling, and how the different pieces of the 20K Multiverse all fit together. From backstage at SNL, to Disney Imagineering’s archives, to real-life Bluey locations, Dallas reveals the anxieties, lucky breaks, and human connections behind our new video series. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Follow You’ll Hear It wherever you get your podcasts, or subscribe on Youtube. Get 3 months of free payroll at gusto.com/20k.
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| One simple trick scientists say will stop snoring | 10 Nov 2021 | 00:40:08 | |
If you’re a human being, chances are, you know someone who is a big time snorer. You're falling asleep to the gentle sounds of crickets, and then BAM, you hear a snore that sounds like an angry troll. So who was the first snorer? And why is snoring still so popular after all these years? This story, which is definitely about snoring, comes from the podcast Endless Thread. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Subscribe to Endless Thread wherever you get your podcasts. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at Stamps.com. Just click the microphone at the top right corner and type the promo code 20k. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications, and quicker hiring times. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/zzz
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| Creature Speakers: The art of voicing monsters | 27 Oct 2021 | 00:26:49 | |
To give voices to the frightening monsters in movies, TV shows, and video games, sound designers often start with animal noises, then apply all kinds of creative processing. But other times, these sounds begin with human voice actors, who absolutely shred their vocal cords for our entertainment. In this episode, we learn the tricks of the terrifying trade. Featuring voice actors DB Cooper and Michael Schwalbe, and sound designer/composer Jordan Chin. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Buy Monster Train and its soundtrack on Steam. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Visit zocdoc.com/hertz to download the Zocdoc app and sign up for free. Get 20% off The Prisoner Wine Company (plus shipping included) at theprisonerwine.com/hertz. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/creaturespeakers
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| How blind gamers are changing the world of video games | 13 Oct 2021 | 00:24:56 | |
In the past, video games were largely inaccessible to people with visual impairments. But these days, game makers are adding all kinds of innovative options to make their games more accessible. And some developers are creating entire virtual worlds using nothing but sound. Featuring streamer & game consultant Steve Saylor and disability rights advocate Connor Scott-Gardner. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Get a one-month free trial of a Premium Membership at skillshare.com/20k. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications, and quicker hiring times. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/videolessgames
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| Sports Without Sight: The sound-driven world of blind athletes | 29 Sep 2021 | 00:21:32 | |
Playing a sport without sight might sound impossible. But it turns out, there are blind athletes all around the world doing exactly that. Instead of using their eyes, these players rely on their ears to hit a pitch, block a throw, and charge across a crowded field. Featuring beep baseball player Ethan Johnston and goalball coach Keith Young. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Download the Be My Eyes mobile app for iOS or Android. To learn more about how to get involved with goalball, visit USABA.org To get involved with beep baseball, check out NBBA.org Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Get your free business banking account at banknovo.com/hertz. Visit zocdoc.com/hertz to download the Zocdoc app and sign up for free Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/blindsports
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| Sound Cinema: Experiencing film through audio description | 15 Sep 2021 | 00:27:19 | |
When Matthew Shifrin was growing up, his blindness meant that trying to enjoy a movie or TV show was often a confusing and frustrating experience. But then, Matthew discovered something called video description—an extra audio track where a narrator describes the action on screen. And suddenly, everything changed. This story comes from the Radiotopia podcast Blind Guy Travels. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications, and quicker hiring times. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Visit monday.com/podcast for your free two-week trial. Subscribe to Blind Guy Travels wherever you get your podcasts. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/listeningtothemovies
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| Sonic Bubbles: Escaping noise, but at what cost? | 01 Sep 2021 | 00:24:13 | |
For over a century, humans have been using technology to shape our sonic environment. White noise machines, nature recordings, noise canceling headphones and high-tech hearables all allow us to create an auditory safe space we can escape into. But is it possible to have too much control over what you hear? Featuring media studies professor Mack Hagood. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Purchase Hush: Media and Media and Sonic Self-Control, by Mack Hagood. Subscribe to Phantom Power wherever you get your podcasts. Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k. Visit monday.com/podcast for your free two-week trial. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at Stamps.com. Just click the microphone at the top right corner and type the promo code 20k. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sonicbubbles
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| Domestic Symphony: Why your dryer has a theme song | 18 Aug 2021 | 00:22:20 | |
Not long ago, our home appliances made nothing but abrasive beeps and harsh buzzes. In recent years though, these devices have started to chirp and sing with carefully designed tones and melodies. But crafting the "perfect" device sound takes skill, patience, and a lot of trial and error. Featuring Audiobrain Founder/Executive Producer Audrey Arbeeny, and Quiet Mark Founder Poppy Szkiler. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. You can check out Audrey Arbeeny’s work at audiobrain.com. To learn more about Poppy Szkiler’s work, visit Quietmark.com. Check out Melissa DeGroff’s Youtube channel here. Visit monday.com/podcast for your free two-week trial. Visit zocdoc.com/hertz to download the Zocdoc app and sign up for free Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/domesticsymphony
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| The mysterious “Windsor Hum” is finally solved! | 04 Aug 2021 | 00:13:34 | |
In 2011, residents of Windsor, Ontario started experiencing a strange rumbling hum that rattled dishes and kept people awake at night. Then, after years of getting nowhere, the mystery of the Windsor Hum was finally solved... Or was it? This is a totally remixed, revoiced, and updated version of one of our oldest and most popular episodes. Featuring documentary filmmaker Adam Makarenko. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications, and quicker hiring times. Visit monday.com/podcast for your free two-week trial. Get a one-month free trial of a Premium Membership at skillshare.com/20k. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: www.20k.org/episodes/thewindsorhum
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| The Buzzer: Are there secret spy messages on the radio? | 21 Jul 2021 | 00:31:02 | |
Since World War I, countries around the world have been broadcasting mysterious numerical messages via shortwave radio. Though concrete evidence is hard to come by, the general consensus is that these coded messages are meant for undercover agents operating abroad. And one particular Russian station may have an even more sinister purpose. Featuring computer engineer Andrus Aaslaid, historian Maris Goldmanis, and documentary photographer Lewis Bush. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. We’re hiring! Visit defactosound.com/careers for more info. To dive deeper into numbers stations, visit numbers-stations.com and priyom.org, or check out Lewis’ book, Shadows of the State. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/thebuzzer Visit monday.com/podcast for your free two-week trial. Go to everyplate.com and enter the promo code, 20k199 to get started for just $1.99 a meal.
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| Stay Tuned: The new voices of the Looney Tunes | 07 Jul 2021 | 00:25:44 | |
Nearly a century after they first appeared, the Looney Tunes are back in an all-new series. To bring this iconic franchise into the present, the creators are looking to its past, taking it back to the look and feel of the 1940s. But filling the shoes of legendary voice actor Mel Blanc is easier said than done. Featuring voice actors Eric Bauza and Jeff Bergman, and showrunner Pete Browngardt. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at Stamps.com. Just click the microphone at the top right corner and type the promo code 20k. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications, and quicker hiring times. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/staytuned
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| Doctor Who & The BBC Radiophonic Workshop | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:35:45 | |
What does a time machine sound like? Or a magic carpet? For the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, that was just another day at the office. For 40 years, this oddball collective of engineers and composers pushed the boundaries of sound design, crafting eerie atmospheres, quirky jingles, and the iconic audio of Doctor Who. In this episode, we explore the rise and fall of this pioneering studio with composer and archivist Mark Ayres, and uncover how these sonic wizards shaped the future of sound. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Follow The Radiophonic Workshop band on Instagram and Bandcamp. Visit quo.com/20k for 20% of your first 6 months of business phone software. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month Shopify trial at shopify.com/20k. Get 20% off your LALAL.AI subscription using promo code 20K. Get 10 free Hello Fresh meals + a free Zwilling knife at hellofresh.com/tth10fm
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| Inside the Foley Prop Room: Frozen, Jurassic Park & more | 23 Jun 2021 | 00:21:26 | |
In part 2 of our exploration of Foley, the Warner Brothers Foley team takes us into the all-important prop room. Along the way, they demonstrate how they make the sounds for flapping birds, breaking bones, cracking ice, handling guns, and more. Featuring Foley Artists Alyson Moore and Chris Moriana, and Foley Mixer Darrin Mann. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/20k. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications, and quicker hiring times. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/proptilyoudrop
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| The Art of Foley: Bringing Slimer & Batman to life | 09 Jun 2021 | 00:20:46 | |
When it comes to film sound, "Foley Artist" might be the most important job you've never heard of. These performers record custom, synchronized sound effects to create the sounds for characters' footsteps, movements, and much more. It's exhausting and delicate work, and when it's done right, the audience doesn't even notice it's there. In this episode, we tour the Warner Brothers Foley stage with Foley Artists Alyson Moore and Chris Moriana, and Foley Mixer Darrin Mann. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/20k. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/foleyartists
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| Leaky Pipeline: The fight that revolutionized cinema sound | 26 May 2021 | 00:25:16 | |
In the late 80s, a small French company found a way to pair analog film with pristine digital audio. But getting their system into theaters would involve a long legal battle, hiding out in a Vegas bathroom, and a last-ditch meeting with a famous director. Their struggle is part of a larger narrative about the groundbreaking work of women in the field of professional audio. Featuring audio engineer Leslie Gaston-Bird and LC Concept co-founder Elisabeth Löchen. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get a free one month trial of Headspace at headspace.com/hertz. Get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/20k. Purchase Women in Audio, by Leslie Gaston-Bird. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/theleakypipeline
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| Auditory Icons: Credit card beeps to driverless car melodies | 19 May 2021 | 00:16:50 | |
We live in a designed world, and alert tones are no exception. Every beep and ping that your phone or laptop makes probably went through multiple rounds of revisions and approvals. So what separates a good device sound from a bad one? This story comes from the Wireframe podcast, and features sound designer Connor Moore and psychoacoustic expert Susan Rogers. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Check out Wireframe wherever you get your podcasts Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/auditoryicons
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| Progression Obsession: Pop music’s most used chord changes | 12 May 2021 | 00:25:34 | |
There are a few specific chord progressions that show up again and again in popular music. Across hundreds of hit songs, the same basic musical formulas have been used by artists ranging from Lynyrd Skynyrd to Lady Gaga, and from Bob Marley to Blink-182. So where did these musical tropes even come from, and what makes them so enduring? Featuring music journalist Jennifer Gersten and comedic musician Benny Davis. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at Stamps.com. Just click the microphone at the top right corner and type the promo code 20k. Compare home and car insurance rates at policygenius.com. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/progressionobsession
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| SM7: The mic that shaped sound and culture | 28 Apr 2021 | 00:22:09 | |
Since their founding almost a century ago, Shure has created some of the most iconic microphones ever made. In this episode, we worked with Shure to tell the story of the SM7 dynamic microphone: from its humble beginnings in voiceover studios in the early 70s, to its use on classic albums, to its rediscovery by podcasters and streamers. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sm7 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices | |||
| The Sound of Minecraft: A melancholy masterpiece w/ C418 | 14 Apr 2021 | 00:24:15 | |
Since its official release in 2011, Minecraft has grown from a small, experimental indie game into the best-selling video game of all time. Today, the game's haunting music and quirky sound effects are just as iconic as its blocky visuals. In this episode, composer and sound designer Daniel Rosenfeld (also known as C418) unpacks how he created the original music and sounds for the game. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at Stamps.com. Just click the microphone at the top right corner and type the promo code 20k. Compare home and car insurance rates at policygenius.com. Visit c418.bandcamp.com to purchase Daniel’s music. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/minecraft
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| 20th Century Fox Fanfare: A family legacy | 24 Mar 2021 | 00:24:49 | |
The melodic fanfare that introduces every 20th Century Fox movie was first composed almost a hundred years ago. Since then, it's become one of the most enduring and recognizable pieces of music in modern history. It's survived company acquisitions, competition from television, and changing trends in Hollywood. But nothing lasts forever. Featuring interviews with Academy Award-nominated composer David Newman and film historian Aubrey Solomon. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications and quicker hiring times. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/20thcenturyfox
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| Sonic Weapons: How “sound cannons” are used for control | 10 Mar 2021 | 00:20:38 | |
The Long-Range Acoustic Device, or LRAD, was developed for the military for long-range communication at sea. But this ear-splitting device has also been fired on protesters across America, resulting in lawsuits and permanent hearing loss. In this episode, we explore the history, science and effects of the so-called “sound cannon.” Featuring tech journalist Lynne Peskoe-Yang and activist Michele Lindor. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Check out Lynne’s work at lynnepeskoeyang.com Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at Stamps.com. Just click the microphone at the top right corner and type the promo code 20k. Compare home and car insurance rates at policygenius.com. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/thedeterrenttone
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| I'm Lovin’ It: How “Ba da ba ba ba” took over the world | 24 Feb 2021 | 00:23:10 | |
Since its introduction in 2003, the McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It” jingle has become one of the most recognizable melodies in the world. This is the story of how a catchy five-note jingle conquered the planet, from its humble beginnings at a German ad agency, to being sung by globally famous pop stars. Featuring interviews with "I'm Lovin' It" composers Tom Batoy and Franco Tortora of Mona Davis Beat. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at Stamps.com. Just click the microphone at the top right corner and type the promo code 20k. Hiring? Sign up at Indeed.com/Hertz and get a $75 credit to sponsor your first job post for better visibility, more applications and quicker hiring times. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/imlovinit
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| Butterfly in the Synth: Reading Rainbow’s Magical Theme Song | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:24:50 | |
The theme song to Reading Rainbow has been delighting kids (and nostalgic grown-ups) for over 40 years. But how did this instantly iconic track come to be? In this episode, composer Steve Horelick reveals the unlikely story of its creation, from its empowering lyrics, to its “fluttering butterfly” synth sound, to how Chaka Khan and a mystery drummer helped shape one of its later versions. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Explore Steve Horelick's work on his website and YouTube channel. Visit expressvpn.com/20k to find out how you can get 4 extra months of protection. Get 3 months of free payroll at gusto.com/20k.
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| The Physics of Sound w/ Bill Nye the Science Guy | 27 Jan 2021 | 00:22:45 | |
What is sound, on a fundamental level? How did animals evolve to hear? And what happens when you go faster than sound itself? In this episode, we explore the physics of sound with the legendary Bill Nye. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Subscribe to Science Rules! wherever you get your podcasts. Get a free one month trial of Headspace at headspace.com/hertz. Get a 4-week trial, free postage, and a digital scale at Stamps.com. Just click the microphone at the top right corner and type the promo code 20k. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sound101
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| Seeing Sounds, Tasting Names: The world of synesthesia | 13 Jan 2021 | 00:25:35 | |
Synesthesia is a neurological condition where one sensory experience gets combined with another, meaning someone might hear sounds when they eat, or see colors when they listen to music. So what exactly is synesthesia? And what’s it like to go through life with these unique sensory connections? Featuring the voices of neuroscientist Dr. Richard Cytowic and five people with synesthesia. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get your first month of hair loss treatment for free at keeps.com/20k. Check out Dr. Richard Cytowic’s work at cytowic.net. Check out Joel Salinas's book Mirror Touch: A Memoir of Synesthesia and the Secret Life of the Brain. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/synesthesia
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| Sing Gently: Singing together, even when apart | 16 Dec 2020 | 00:33:20 | |
After composer Eric Whitacre finished Virtual Choir number 5 in 2018, he thought the project might be done for good. But 2020 was just around the corner, and the Virtual Choir was far from over. For our last episode of the year, we've re-edited and remixed our episode about the Virtual Choir, and added a brand new section to bring the story up to the present. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity. Visit our website to see all six virtual choirs. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/singgently
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| The Song Hunter: How Alan Lomax saved the sounds of America | 09 Dec 2020 | 00:24:43 | |
Alan Lomax believed that the culture of poor Americans was important and worthy of saving. So he spent decades traveling the American South and recording obscure musicians on their front porches, in churches, even in prisons. Today, he's considered an American icon, but the road to becoming a legend wasn't an easy one. Featuring Southern Historical Collection archivist Chaitra Powell, American Folklife Center curator Todd Harvey, and filmmaker Rogier Kappers. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity. Archival recordings in this episode came from the Alan Lomax Collection at the American Folklife Center, courtesy of the Association for Cultural Equity. Check out Rogier's documentary "Lomax the Songhunter" on Amazon. For more information on the crowdsourcing project for transcribing Alan Lomax's notes, visit https://crowd.loc.gov/campaigns/alan-lomax/ Subscribe to The Wind where ever you get your podcasts. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/soundsworthsaving
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| From Klingon to Dothraki: How sci-fi languages shape worlds | 02 Dec 2020 | 00:26:08 | |
Sci-fi and fantasy creators often use constructed languages (or conlangs) to help us believe that the characters come from ancient times or distant galaxies. But what happens when a fictional language jumps off the screen and into the real world? This story comes from the Imaginary Worlds podcast. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity. Subscribe to Imaginary Worlds wherever you get your podcasts. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/conlang
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| Space Audity: The challenges of space communication | 18 Nov 2020 | 00:21:39 | |
We've all heard the iconic recordings from the Apollo missions. But how exactly does NASA manage to run live audio between Earth and the moon? And how might we chat with astronauts on Mars and beyond? Featuring Astronaut Peggy Whitson, NASA Audio Engineer Alexandria Perryman, and Astrophysicist Paul Sutter. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity. Check out Ask a Spaceman wherever you get your podcasts. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/spaceaudity
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| Sonic Utopia: Can we build a better sounding world? | 11 Nov 2020 | 00:25:14 | |
Technology has the power to transform the way our world sounds. It could even give us entirely new ways to experience our surroundings. In this episode, we explore the sounds of the future, and how we can use the tools we already have to build a better sounding world. Featuring Rose Eveleth, Creator and Host of the podcast Flash Forward, Acoustician Andrew Pyzdek, and Architect Chris Downey. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity. Subscribe to Flash Forward wherever you get your podcasts. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/sonicutopia
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| The Cyborg, The Scientist, and the Death of Silence | 28 Oct 2020 | 00:48:42 | |
Sound surrounds us, even in the quietest moments. But depending on how we hear, the world can be a different auditory experience for each of us. This episode features four stories from the TED Radio Hour. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Subscribe to the TED Radio Hour wherever you get your podcasts. Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/soundandsilence
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| Dies Irae: The death melody haunting Hollywood | 21 Oct 2020 | 00:26:48 | |
For hundreds of years, composers have been using a specific four-note melody to evoke death. It's appeared in dozens of famous movies, and you probably never even realized it. But once you hear it, you'll start noticing it everywhere. Featuring musicologist Alex Ludwig and Strong Songs Host Kirk Hamilton. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity. Check out Alex’s list of Dies Irae examples at alexludwig.net. Subscribe to Strong Songs where ever you get your podcasts. Check out The Graduale Project’s Youtube page for more Latin chants. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/diesirae
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| Perfect Pitch: Unlocking Jacob Collier’s musical brilliance | 14 Oct 2020 | 00:27:27 | |
People with perfect or "absolute" pitch hear every single sound as precise musical notes. Is this extraordinary talent a blessing or a curse? In this episode, we dive into the neuroscience, pluses and pitfalls of absolute pitch. Featuring neuroscientist Daniel Levitin and Grammy-winning musician Jacob Collier. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity. Check out Barnaby Martin’s YouTube channel, Listening In. Order Daniel Levitin’s book, This Is Your Brain On Music. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/perfectpitch
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| Auld Lang What? The surprising origins of the New Year’s song | 31 Dec 2025 | 00:20:03 | |
Every New Year’s at midnight, we raise our voices to sing a song that few of us understand: “Auld Lang Syne.” So when and why did this become the anthem of the holiday? In this episode, our friends at the Smithsonian’s Sidedoor podcast trace the mysterious rise of “Auld Lang Syne” from rural Scotland, to a New York jazz club, to a classic film and an iconic actor. Featuring folklorist Jim Deutsch. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Subscribe to Sidedoor wherever you get your podcasts. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Get 3 months of free payroll at gusto.com/20k.
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| Tyrannosaurus FX: What dinosaurs really sounded like | 07 Oct 2020 | 00:23:37 | |
When you imagine the sound of a dinosaur, you probably think of a scene from the Jurassic Park movies. How do sound designers make these extinct creatures sound so believably alive? And what does modern paleontology tell us about what dinosaurs REALLY sounded like? Featuring Jurassic World sound designer Al Nelson, and paleontologist Julia Clarke. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Discover more at lexus.com/curiosity. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/tyrannosaurusfx
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| Napster: How free music broke the industry | 30 Sep 2020 | 00:36:43 | |
In less than two years, Napster became a global sensation... and then record labels and multi-platinum artists brought it crashing down. But in its short lifespan, Napster transformed our ideas about how we consume music, and how much we're willing to pay for it. This story comes from the podcast Spectacular Failures. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Subscribe to Spectacular Failures wherever you get your podcasts. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/napster
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| Vocal Discords: When nodules silence singers | 16 Sep 2020 | 00:21:42 | |
Musicians like Justin Timberlake, Adele, Björk and Rod Stewart have all had surgery to treat vocal nodes. Nodes are so widely discussed, they've almost become a boogeyman in the singing community. But is this condition really as common as people fear? And when nodes do develop, is all hope truly lost? Featuring vocal coach Katie Talbot and Professor and Chairman of the Ear, Nose, and Throat Department at Drexel University of Medicine Dr. Robert Sataloff. Twenty Thousand Hertz is produced by Defacto Sound. Subscribe on YouTube to see our video series. If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org. Support the show and get ad-free episodes at 20k.org/plus. Follow Dallas on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join our community on Reddit. Learn how you can protect your voice at nidcd.nih.gov. Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/vocaldiscords
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