Thursday Thistory: The Chess Machine

Thursday Thistory: The Chess Machine

Author: Popped Collar Productions January 23, 2026 Duration: 10:41

In 1770 a weird and amazing machine known as "The Chess Machine," or "The Mechanical Turk," was created by Civil Servant and Engineer Wolfgang von Kempelen. He claimed it could play chess as an automated machine, and indeed it played and defeated many talented players and well-known people, including Napolean and Benjamin Franklin. This device kicked off the type of thinking that influenced the development of the computer, and probably even AI. Unfortunately it was all a hoax...

Thursday Thistory is a look at psychological or cultural history. Half today's episode is available to all listeners, while the other half is only for Patreon members. 

This month's highlighted charity is Stand in Pride, a nonprofit helping LGBTQ+ individuals find support after facing rejection from family. Go to www.standinpride.org to learn more.  


Ever wondered what happens when you take the serious, often intimidating world of psychology and run it through a filter of genuine curiosity and humor? That’s the space where The Broken Brain lives. Produced by Popped Collar Productions, this podcast sits at a unique crossroads between education and comedy, offering a therapist’s perspective without the sterile clinic feel. Each episode is structured as an organized panel discussion, gathering voices to unpack a wide variety of topics-some unexpectedly silly, others leaning into practical, self-help territory. You’ll hear real therapeutic points of view applied to everyday life, all within a conversation that feels more like a lively chat among insightful friends than a lecture. The result is an hour (ish) of content that aims to demystify mental health concepts while acknowledging the inherent messiness and humor of being human. Tuning in provides a refreshing blend of learning and levity, making complex ideas accessible and surprisingly entertaining. This isn't about jargon or quick fixes; it's about thoughtful exploration with a dose of relatability. The panel format ensures multiple angles are considered, offering listeners a richer understanding than a single host could provide. So, whether you're navigating your own challenges or just fascinated by how minds work, this podcast delivers a compelling mix of insight and irreverence.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Broken Brain
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