We've all heard them. You're watching or hearing a show, a character says something, and -- boom! -- an invisible choir of audience members loses their minds in riotous laughter, awws, or applause. But how did where does this come from? In today's episode, we're learning how this came to be, and how it eventually became its own worst enemy. Ben here: I'd like to give a special thanks to Max for some stellar sound design.

The Bizarre Parable of New Coke, Chapter One: Sweeter, Stranger, Strange
36:14

"Resting Bicycle Face": Bikes and Women's Rights
44:09

CLASSIC: How Oliver Cromwell Got Executed Several Years After His Death
26:40