Episodes

  • 176: Who Invented Breakfast? The Breakfast Industry’s Dirty Little Secrets
    Jul 16 2025
    Hi friends, happy Wednesday!

    The other day I woke up starving — like, hangry. So I wandered into the kitchen and stood there, just… staring. Eggs? Too much work. Pancakes? Ehhh Toast? Meh. I mean why is choosing breakfast this complicated?

    It’s supposed to be “the most important meal of the day,” right? At least that’s what we’ve all been told. But who decided that? Who made the rules on what we should eat first thing in the morning?

    So I started digging — and what I found is, breakfast has never been just about food. It’s been a battlefield. A PR stunt. A marketing goldmine. And sometimes… even a political weapon.

    From early doctors who thought bland breakfasts could stop “sinful urges”… to the government pushing a food pyramid on America… to movements that fought for kids to actually have access to breakfast …it’s messy. Like spilled coffee on your white shirt messy.

    So let’s dive into it. Today we are talking about the Dark History of Breakfast.

    I appreciate you for coming by, and tune in next week for more Dark History.

    I sometimes talk about my Good Reads in the show. So here's the link if you want to check it out. IDK. lol: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/139701263-bailey

    ________

    FOLLOW ME AROUND
    Tik Tok: https://bit.ly/3e3jL9v
    Instagram: http://bit.ly/2nbO4PR
    Facebook: http://bit.ly/2mdZtK6
    Twitter: http://bit.ly/2yT4BLV
    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2mVpXnY
    Youtube: http://bit.ly/1HGw3Og
    Snapchat: https://bit.ly/3cC0V9d
    Discord: https://discord.gg/BaileySarian*

    RECOMMEND A STORY HERE: cases4bailey@gmail.com
    Business Related Emails: bailey@underscoretalent.com
    Business Related Mail: Bailey Sarian 4400 W. Riverside Dr., Ste 110-300 Burbank, CA 91505

    ________

    This podcast is Executive Produced by:
    Bailey Sarian & Kevin Grosch and Joey Scavuzzo from Made In Network
    Head Writer: Allyson Philobos
    Writer: Katie Burris
    Additional Writing: Jessica Charles
    Research provided by: Coleen Smith
    Special thank you to our Historical Consultant: Heather Arnt Anderson, author of “Breakfast: A History”
    Director: Brian Jaggers
    Additional Editing: Julien Perez and Maria Norris
    Post Supervisor: Kelly Hardin
    Production Management: Ross Woodruff
    Hair: Angel Gonzalez
    Makeup: Bailey Sarian

    ________

    Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://www.zocdoc.com/DARKHISTORY to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

    New members can try Audible now free for 30 days and dive into a world of new thrills. Visit https://www.audible.com/DARKHISTORY or text DARKHISTORY to 500-500.

    What are you waiting for? Give your cat the food they deserve. For a limited time only, because you are a DARK HISTORY listener, you can get 60% off your first Smalls order PLUS free shipping when you head to https://www.smalls.com/DARKHISTORY.

    During the time of this spot, another FOURTEEN-HUNDRED packages were shipped with the help of ShipStation! Upgrade to a smoother shipping experience. Go to https://www.shipstation.com/DARKHISTORY to sign up for your free trial. No credit card or contract required and you can cancel anytime.

    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
  • 175: How Bodybuilding Went from Freak Show to Fitness Empire
    Jul 9 2025
    Hi friends, happy Wednesday!

    You know, lately I’ve noticed something strange. It feels like every celebrity these days is... jacked. Like, not just in “good shape.” I’m talking veins popping out of places I didn’t even know veins existed.

    I mean, back in the day, you had, what? 2 or 3 action stars. But now? Even the comedians are huge. Like, why is Jim from the Office looking like he’s training for the Olympics??

    All this got me thinking… When did we get so obsessed with muscles? Because I don’t remember Leonardo DiCaprio or Harrison Ford being jacked. They were just normal dudes.

    Where did it start? And is it even healthy to be so muscular?

    Today, we’re taking a little trip back in time to talk about the sweaty, sexy, and strange and Dark History of… bodybuilding.

    I appreciate you for coming by, and tune in next week for more Dark History.

    I sometimes talk about my Good Reads in the show. So here's the link if you want to check it out. IDK. lol: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/139701263-bailey

    ________

    This podcast is Executive Produced by:

    Bailey Sarian & Kevin Grosch and Joey Scavuzzo from Made In Network

    Head Writer: Allyson Philobos

    Writer: Katie Burris

    Additional Writing: Jessica Charles

    Research provided by: Coleen Smith

    Special thank you to our Historical Consultant: Natalia Mehlman Petrzela, Professor of History at The New School and author of “Fit Nation: The Gains and Pains of America's Exercise Obsession”

    Director: Brian Jaggers

    Editing: Julien Perez

    Additional Editing: Maria Norris

    Post Supervisor: Kelly Hardin

    Production Management: Ross Woodruff

    Hair: Angel Gonzalez

    Makeup: Bailey Sarian

    ________

    Get started today at https://www.stitchfix.com/darkhistory to get $20 off your first order, and they’ll waive your styling fee. That’s https://www.stitchfix.com/darkhistory.

    Head to https://www.squarespace.com/DARKHISTORY for a free trial. And when you’re ready to launch, use OFFER CODE DARK HISTORY to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.
    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
  • 174: Murder, Incest, and Castration: How Nero DESTROYED Rome
    Jun 25 2025
    Hi friends, happy Wednesday!

    So you guys know I love dictators. And you ended up *LOVING* the Caesar episode… So it made me wonder what other, *older* dictators were out there who I assumed were boring but actually had these scandalous lives.

    And that’s when I found out about a certain emperor we’re gonna talk about today. Not only did he mass murder an entire group of people, but he *personally* killed just about everyone who got close to him.

    And you might think okay, typical bloodthirsty tyrant. Been there, done that. But … no. No one has ever matched this guy's freak.

    Some of the dictators we’ve talked about are actually failed artists. And then they take revenge on the world by taking it over.

    But this guy… it’s almost like he didn’t care about being in power at all. All he wanted to do was sing. And dance. And have insane orgies with eunuchs. But instead… he was forced by his mother to rule Rome.

    Today I am coming to you with the insane TRUE story of one of the world’s first tyrants. This is the Dark History of NERO.

    I appreciate you for coming by, and tune in next week for more Dark History.

    I sometimes talk about my Good Reads in the show. So here's the link if you want to check it out. IDK. lol: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/139701263-bailey

    ________

    FOLLOW ME AROUND
    Tik Tok: https://bit.ly/3e3jL9v
    Instagram: http://bit.ly/2nbO4PR
    Facebook: http://bit.ly/2mdZtK6
    Twitter: http://bit.ly/2yT4BLV
    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2mVpXnY
    Youtube: http://bit.ly/1HGw3Og
    Snapchat: https://bit.ly/3cC0V9d
    Discord: https://discord.gg/BaileySarian*

    RECOMMEND A STORY HERE: cases4bailey@gmail.com
    Business Related Emails: bailey@underscoretalent.com
    Business Related Mail: Bailey Sarian 4400 W. Riverside Dr., Ste 110-300 Burbank, CA 91505

    ________

    This podcast is Executive Produced by:
    Bailey Sarian & Kevin Grosch and Joey Scavuzzo from Made In Network
    Head Writer: Allyson Philobos
    Writer: Katie Burris
    Additional Writing: Jessica Charles
    Research provided by: Dr. Thomas Messersmith
    Special thank you to our Historical Consultant: Dr. Dustin Cranford
    Director: Brian Jaggers
    Additional Editing: Julien Perez and Maria Norris
    Post Supervisor: Kelly Hardin
    Production Management: Ross Woodruff
    Hair: Angel Gonzalez
    Makeup: Bailey Sarian

    ________

    No matter what your summer brings: Tear. Pour. Live More. Go to https://www.liquidiv.com and get 20% off your first order with code DARKHISTORY at checkout.

    Personal styling for everyone—get started today at https://www.stitchfix.com/darkhistory.

    Start listening and discover what’s beyond the edge of your seat. New members can try Audible now free for 30 days and dive into a world of new thrills. Visit https://www.audible.com/DARKHISTORY or text DARKHISTORY to 500-500.

    Start your initial free online visit today at https://www.forhers.com/DARKHISTORY. That’s https://www.forhers.com/DARKHISTORY for your personalized hair loss treatment options. Individual Results may vary. Compounded products are not FDA-approved or verified for safety, effectiveness, or quality. Prescription required. Price varies based on product and subscription plan. See website for full details, restrictions, and important safety information.


    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 2 mins
  • 173: Stripper Wars: Chippendales’ Glamour, Greed & MURDER?!
    Jun 18 2025
    Hi friends, happy Wednesday!

    For some reason, female nudity feels *way* more common than male nudity. In pop culture at least, we’re way more used to seeing women being naked and sexualized.

    Think how many times you see titties on tv. And then think about how everyone loses their minds when there’s a penis on HBO or White Lotus. It’s rare!

    Back in the 1950s, it was only men who had bachelor parties. Bachelorette parties? Not a thing. In those days, women would have bridal showers. And men got to have their wild night out.

    But by the 70s, feminism was going strong. Women were feeling a little more liberated. They wanted equality, and that meant that we wanted bachelorette parties, baby. Like, we want exactly what the guys are having.

    And this story is really about a few guys being in the right place at the right time. Because they started something over in Los Angeles that overlapped with the rise of porn, *and* female empowerment.

    Because what do you need for the perfect bachelorette party? Booze, penis straws and… strippers. Hot, naked, dancing men.

    I appreciate you for coming by, and tune in next week for more Dark History.

    I sometimes talk about my Good Reads in the show. So here's the link if you want to check it out. IDK. lol: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/139701263-bailey

    ________

    FOLLOW ME AROUND
    Tik Tok: https://bit.ly/3e3jL9v
    Instagram: http://bit.ly/2nbO4PR
    Facebook: http://bit.ly/2mdZtK6
    Twitter: http://bit.ly/2yT4BLV
    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2mVpXnY
    Youtube: http://bit.ly/1HGw3Og
    Snapchat: https://bit.ly/3cC0V9d
    Discord: https://discord.gg/BaileySarian*

    RECOMMEND A STORY HERE: cases4bailey@gmail.com
    Business Related Emails: bailey@underscoretalent.com
    Business Related Mail: Bailey Sarian 4400 W. Riverside Dr., Ste 110-300 Burbank, CA 91505

    ________

    This podcast is Executive Produced by:
    Bailey Sarian & Kevin Grosch and Joey Scavuzzo from Made In Network
    Head Writer: Allyson Philobos
    Writer: Katie Burris
    Additional Writing: Jessica Charles
    Research provided by: Coleen Smith
    Special thank you to our Historical Consultant: Natalia Mehlman Petrzela - Professor of History at The New School and host of the podcast ‘Welcome To Your Fantasy’.
    Director: Brian Jaggers
    Edited by: Julien Perez
    Additional Editing: Maria Norris
    Post Supervisor: Kelly Hardin
    Production Management: Ross Woodruff
    Hair: Angel Gonzalez
    Makeup: Nikki La Rose

    ________

    So take advantage of this exclusive offer: For a limited time get 40% off your first box PLUS get a free item in every box for life. Go to https://www.hungryroot.com/darkhistory and use code darkhistory.

    Shop SKIMS Ultimate Bra Collection and more at https://www.SKIMS.com. After you place your order, be sure to let them know I sent you! Select "podcast" in the survey and be sure to select my show in the dropdown menu that follows.

    Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://www.zocdoc.com/darkhistory to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

    Head to https://www.squarespace.com/darkhistory for a free trial. And when you’re ready to launch, just use OFFER CODE DARK HISTORY to save 10% on your first purchase of a website or domain.
    Show More Show Less
    57 mins
  • 172: Earthquakes: From Human Sacrifice to Nuclear Disaster… Is the Big One Coming??
    Jun 11 2025
    Hi friends, happy Wednesday!

    Do you guys remember earthquake drills? I grew up in California… So earthquake drills were just part of my life growing up.

    It seemed like we did earthquake drills nonstop. And despite that, I can never seem to remember what to do during an earthquake. Like, do I go to a doorway? Do I hide under a desk?
    Do I stop, drop, and roll? Oh right, that’s for fires.

    Some earthquakes are so big they have literally changed the size and rotation of the earth. The whole thing terrifies me because I learned that sometimes, an earthquake is just the *beginning* of a disaster.

    Earthquakes can trigger *other* events - like tsunamis, fires, and even… human sacrifice. And once upon a time, an earthquake almost caused a nuclear disaster. So let’s get into it.

    I appreciate you for coming by, and tune in next week for more Dark History.

    I sometimes talk about my Good Reads in the show. So here's the link if you want to check it out. IDK. lol: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/139701263-bailey

    ________

    FOLLOW ME AROUND
    Tik Tok: https://bit.ly/3e3jL9v
    Instagram: http://bit.ly/2nbO4PR
    Facebook: http://bit.ly/2mdZtK6
    Twitter: http://bit.ly/2yT4BLV
    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2mVpXnY
    Youtube: http://bit.ly/1HGw3Og
    Snapchat: https://bit.ly/3cC0V9d
    Discord: https://discord.gg/BaileySarian*

    RECOMMEND A STORY HERE: cases4bailey@gmail.com
    Business Related Emails: bailey@underscoretalent.com
    Business Related Mail: Bailey Sarian 4400 W. Riverside Dr., Ste 110-300 Burbank, CA 91505

    ________

    This podcast is Executive Produced by:
    Bailey Sarian & Kevin Grosch and Joey Scavuzzo from Made In Network
    Head Writer: Allyson Philobos
    Writer: Katie Burris
    Additional Writing: Jessica Charles
    Research provided by: Arelí Rocha
    Special thank you to our Historical Consultant: James Carter, PhD - Author of “Champion's Day: The End of Old Shanghai”
    Director: Brian Jaggers
    Additional Editing: Julien Perez and Maria Norris
    Post Supervisor: Kelly Hardin
    Production Management: Ross Woodruff
    Hair: Angel Gonzalez
    Makeup: Nikki La Rose

    ________

    Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://www.zocdoc.com/DARKHISTORY to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

    Want to subtly inspire more delicious meals cooked for you this summer? For a very limited time only, shop the HexClad Father’s Day Sale for the best deals on the best gifts for Dad! Just head to https://www.hexclad.com/DARKHISTORY.

    Calm the chaos of order fulfillment with the shipping software that delivers. Switch to ShipStation today. Go to https://www.shipstation.com/darkhistory to sign up for your FREE trial.

    Right now, you can get a 30-day free trial PLUS 25% off your annual subscription when you go to https://www.dipseastories.com/DARKHISTORY.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 4 mins
  • 171: Walmart: From American dream to American NIGHTMARE
    May 28 2025
    Hi friends, happy Wednesday!

    Do you guys remember that movie “Where the Heart Is?” It’s all about this girl who secretly moves into the store without anyone noticing, then she gives birth in the mattress department… and again, no one notices… It stars Natalie Portman, it’s great.

    When I was a kid and I saw this movie, it was 100% believable to me. I mean when I think of Walmart, I think of this ridiculously *HUGE* store with everything you could possibly need.

    I’m talking late night tampon runs, trashbags, nail polish removers, hot Cheetos and cream cheese… if you know you know. I honestly don’t even remember a time in my life when Walmart didn’t exist.

    Millions of Americans depend on their low prices just to get by in this economy. Walmart is a savior to some people.

    Others believe it’s the reason millions of Americans are in debt. I know… plot twist. Whatever you believe… Walmart is the biggest company in the world and *everyone* has an opinion on it.

    So of course I had to get the tea for us. Welcome to the Dark History of WALMART!

    I appreciate you for coming by, and tune in next week for more Dark History.

    I sometimes talk about my Good Reads in the show. So here's the link if you want to check it out. IDK. lol: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/139701263-bailey

    ________

    FOLLOW ME AROUND
    Tik Tok: https://bit.ly/3e3jL9v
    Instagram: http://bit.ly/2nbO4PR
    Facebook: http://bit.ly/2mdZtK6
    Twitter: http://bit.ly/2yT4BLV
    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2mVpXnY
    Youtube: http://bit.ly/1HGw3Og
    Snapchat: https://bit.ly/3cC0V9d
    Discord: https://discord.gg/BaileySarian*

    RECOMMEND A STORY HERE: cases4bailey@gmail.com
    Business Related Emails: bailey@underscoretalent.com
    Business Related Mail: Bailey Sarian 4400 W. Riverside Dr., Ste 110-300 Burbank, CA 91505

    ________

    This podcast is Executive Produced by:
    Bailey Sarian & Kevin Grosch and Joey Scavuzzo from Made In Network
    Head Writer: Allyson Philobos
    Writer: Katie Burris
    Additional Writing: Jessica Charles
    Research provided by: Coleen Smith
    Special thank you to our Historical Consultant: Charles Fishman - Journalist and author of “The Wal-Mart Effect” and “One Giant Leap”.
    Director: Brian Jaggers
    Additional Editing: Julien Perez and Maria Norris
    Post Supervisor: Kelly Hardin
    Production Management: Ross Woodruff
    Hair: Angel Gonzalez
    Makeup: Nikki La Rose
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 6 mins
  • 170: The Shocking Truth About Dairy: Why are we *really* drinking milk?
    May 21 2025
    Hi friends, happy Wednesday!

    As a country, America has always had a complicated relationship with dairy. One month we hate it, the next month, some weird cottage cheese recipe goes viral, and we’re all over it again.

    But here's something I thought was a little strange. You never hear about dairy farmers or the dairy industry going bankrupt. It made me wonder why. Turns out… the dairy industry is in bed with the government.

    Why? Because the government desperately needs them not to fail. And that’s just the tip of the string cheese. We’ve been brainwashed into thinking we *need* dairy from the time we were kids. And there’s a wild reason for that.

    It involves Marie Antoinette, cheese caves, and… Dominoes? Guys… this is a wild one. And I’m not going to lie… you might think twice before ordering your next Taco Bell burrito.

    Welcome to the Dark History of Big Dairy!

    I appreciate you for coming by, and tune in next week for more Dark History.

    I sometimes talk about my Good Reads in the show. So here's the link if you want to check it out. IDK. lol: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/139701263-bailey

    ________

    FOLLOW ME AROUND
    Tik Tok: https://bit.ly/3e3jL9v
    Instagram: http://bit.ly/2nbO4PR
    Facebook: http://bit.ly/2mdZtK6
    Twitter: http://bit.ly/2yT4BLV
    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2mVpXnY
    Youtube: http://bit.ly/1HGw3Og
    Snapchat: https://bit.ly/3cC0V9d
    Discord: https://discord.gg/BaileySarian*

    RECOMMEND A STORY HERE: cases4bailey@gmail.com
    Business Related Emails: bailey@underscoretalent.com
    Business Related Mail: Bailey Sarian 4400 W. Riverside Dr., Ste 110-300 Burbank, CA 91505

    ________

    This podcast is Executive Produced by:
    Bailey Sarian & Kevin Grosch and Joey Scavuzzo from Made In Network
    Head Writer: Allyson Philobos
    Writer: Katie Burris
    Additional Writing: Jessica Charles
    Research provided by: Dr. Thomas Messersmith
    Special thank you to our Historical Consultant: Emily Baron Cadloff, journalist and senior editor at ‘Modern Farmer’
    Director: Brian Jaggers
    Additional Editing: Julien Perez and Maria Norris
    Post Supervisor: Kelly Hardin
    Production Management: Ross Woodruff
    Hair: Angel Gonzalez
    Makeup: Nikki La Rose


    ________

    Start listening and discover what’s beyond the edge of your seat. New members can try Audible now free for 30 days and dive into a world of new thrills. Visit https://www.audible.com/darkhistory or text DARKHISTORY to 500-500.

    Head to https://www.squarespace.com/darkhistory for a free trial, and when you’re ready to launch, use OFFER CODE DARKHISTORY to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

    Start your initial free online visit today at https://www.forhers.com/darkhistory. That’s https://www.forhers.com/darkhistory for your personalized hair loss treatment options. Individual Results may vary. Compounded products are not FDA-approved or verified for safety, effectiveness, or quality. Prescription required. Price varies based on product and subscription plan. See website for full details, restrictions, and important safety information.

    Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to https://www.zocdoc.com/darkhistory to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.
    Show More Show Less
    55 mins
  • 169: The Headlines called it “Justice,” In Reality it was a MASSACRE
    May 14 2025
    Hi friends, happy Wednesday!

    You know, after living in Los Angeles for a few years, I’ve learned a lot. Like, for example, if you tell people you live in LA, the first thing they ask about is celebrities.

    Who have I seen? What were they like? Am I friends with Kris Jenner? It’s always the same question.

    LA is huge and a lot of people don’t realize it has a *crazy* history. Hollywood and celebrity culture is just one small part of it.

    We’ve covered some LA history here on Dark History a couple of times. We did an episode on the Chicano Movement, and we even did one the Zoot Suit Riots.

    During my research for those episodes, I came across an event I had never heard of… the Chinese Massacre of 1871. You might think by the name, this massacre happened in China.

    But turns out, it happened right here in Los Angeles. It was essentially a mass murder killing spree, targeting Chinese American communities.

    I wanted to do this episode because it’s one of those stories where I thought to myself: why aren’t they teaching this in school? Why has it gotten brushed under the rug and lost to history? Well, today we’re going to find out.

    Welcome to the Dark History of the Chinese Massacre of 1871.

    I appreciate you for coming by, and tune in next week for more Dark History.

    I sometimes talk about my Good Reads in the show. So here's the link if you want to check it out. IDK. lol: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/139701263-bailey

    ________

    FOLLOW ME AROUND
    Tik Tok: https://bit.ly/3e3jL9v
    Instagram: http://bit.ly/2nbO4PR
    Facebook: http://bit.ly/2mdZtK6
    Twitter: http://bit.ly/2yT4BLV
    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/2mVpXnY
    Youtube: http://bit.ly/1HGw3Og
    Snapchat: https://bit.ly/3cC0V9d
    Discord: https://discord.gg/BaileySarian*

    RECOMMEND A STORY HERE: cases4bailey@gmail.com
    Business Related Emails: bailey@underscoretalent.com
    Business Related Mail: Bailey Sarian 4400 W. Riverside Dr., Ste 110-300 Burbank, CA 91505

    ________

    Credits:
    This podcast is Executive Produced by:
    Bailey Sarian & Kevin Grosch and Joey Scavuzzo from Made In Network
    Head Writer: Allyson Philobos
    Writer: Katie Burris
    Additional Writing: Jessica Charles
    Research provided by: DH Research Team
    Special thank you to our Historical Consultant: Scott Zesch, historian and author of "The Chinatown War."
    Director: Brian Jaggers
    Additional Editing: Julien Perez & Maria Norris
    Post Supervisor: Kelly Hardin
    Production Management: Ross Woodruff
    Hair: Angel Gonzalez
    Makeup: Roni Herrera

    ________

    Right now, listeners of this show can get an extended 30-day free trial! Just go to https://dipseastories.com/darkhistory to start your free trial.

    Calm the chaos of order fulfillment with the shipping software that delivers. Switch to ShipStation today. Go to https://www.shipstation.com and use code DARKHISTORY to sign up for your FREE trial.

    Check out the SKIMS Ultimate Bra Collection and more at https://www.skims.com/darkhistory #skimspartner

    Personal styling for everyone—get started today at https://www.stitchfix.com/darkhistory.
    Show More Show Less
    33 mins