The Drug Lord

The Drug Lord

Author: Popular Mechanics / Panoply March 1, 2019 Duration: 47:22
We'll be the first to admit that the Most Useful Podcast Ever doesn't pursue a lot of hard-hitting journalism, but that's ok, because this week's guest, Elaine Shannon, certainly does. She came upon the story of criminal mastermind Paul Leroux while tracking the drug trade in Afghanistan, and eventually wrote a book—Hunting LeRoux: The Inside Story of the DEA Takedown of a Criminal Genius and His Empire—with the help of the DEA agents who took him down (two of whom also joined us for this week's podcast). Also on this episode: Sinks and toilets, sawdust, and the Houston rodeo.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever find yourself staring at a tangled mess of cables, a confusing gadget manual, or a household problem that seems to have no logical solution? Most Useful Podcast Ever is here for those moments. Hosted by Popular Mechanics Editor Jacqueline Detwiler and brought to you by Panoply, this is a conversation about the practical side of technology and everyday life. Instead of abstract theory, each episode brings in a different expert-engineers, scientists, makers, and clever thinkers-to tackle the surprisingly tough questions you actually have. You’ll hear clear, actionable advice on everything from maintaining your tools and optimizing your workspace to understanding the tech that shapes your day. The tone is curious and straightforward, cutting through the noise to deliver information that feels immediately applicable. It’s the kind of podcast that makes you nod along, thinking, "Oh, so that’s how that works," and you’ll likely walk away with a tip or a new perspective you can use before the episode even finishes. Think of it as a regular dose of useful clarity, designed to make the world around you just a bit more manageable and interesting.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Most Useful Podcast Ever
Podcast Episodes
Breathing, Powertools and Aging Whiskey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:23
Most people breathe into their shoulders instead of into their chests, causing a host of physical problems and increasing stress. Clinical psychologist and breathing expert to law enforcement Belisa Vranich stops by the…
Office Survivor [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:02
With Apple’s battle over phone security in the news, the Most Useful Podcast Ever finds out how to keep your iPhone safe from criminals. Then, in honor of Popular Mechanics’ annual Survival issue, Shane Hobel of Mountain…
Superbowl 50 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:59
Just in time for the big game, we invite Hill Country Market Barbecue pitmaster Ash Fulk into the Popular Mechanics workshop to teach us all about nachos. Then we test new Sam Adams nitro beers you can serve with those n…
Winter Driving [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:42
We talk to Bridgestone Winter Driving instructor Mark Cox, about Anti lock brakes, what to do if you're in a skid, and the difference between all those tires you see at the tire store. The we take a look at the best in f…
How to Catch Fish You Can’t See [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:25
Now that there’s finally enough ice to go ice fishing, we asked Minnesota fishing guide Scott Merwin for tips on doing it right. We figure he’ll know: He managed to catch six fish while being interviewed. After that, Cur…
The Holiday Hangover [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:07
On today's episode, in advance of your New Year’s Eve party, we take science into our own hands and test a variety of hangover prevention products—on ourselves. Our post-office party Testing Table is a little bit groggy…
The Gift of Gifting [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:21
Our editors suggest gifts for all those you may have in your life, from that teenager you don't know so well, to your girlfriend's Dad. Plus, we'll explain how to talk about technology to the older generation, and we tes…
Carving the Bird [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:56
In this episode, chef Wylie Dufresne demonstrates the best way to carve whatever fowl you might be having this Thanksgiving, whether it’s a traditional turkey, or, as it was in our podcast studio, an overcooked rotisseri…
Star Gazing [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:03
Amateur astronomer Ed Ting explains why the contributions of hobbyists like himself are still vital in the field of astronomy and helps others launch their own star obsessions with tips about telescopes, telescope target…
Haunted Home Improvement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:40
We talk to a professional haunted house designer Larry Kirschner about how you can creep out your crib for the holiday with items you have around the house. Then, in this week's Testing Table, we have the Great Pumpkin C…