Afghanistan suspends chess due to religious concerns. Newark goes dark -- for just long enough to prompt serious questions. The world witnesses new escalations in the Great Game, as various corporations and countries race to acquire precious mineral resources. Since Ben and Matt always like to end on a good note, this week's strange news segment concludes with an optimistic discussion about octopus civilization, and how ethically fraught brain surgery might extend the known lifespan of that species.

CLASSIC: What is Falun Gong?
1:08:19

Strange News: Financial Shenanigans, Penis Crimes and Mouths Sewn Shut, Nolan Wells, the Explosive Diarrhea Crisis, the End of Daylight Savings Time and More
1:05:47

The Return of Conscription
1:06:28