Sports legends, Plastics in clothing, Impact of the John Birch Society

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Kareem Abdul-Jabbar stretches high above Chet Walker
Lew Alcindor, who changed his name to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, (33) of the Milwaukee Bucks stretches high above Chet Walker (25) of the Chicago Bulls as he stuffs a goal through the hoop in the first quarter NBA action at Chicago, Nov. 24, 1970. Larry Stoddard/AP Photo

An author lays out the Wisconsin connections to the John Birch Society and why where the group’s legacy is seen in conservative politics. We also learn how frequently plastics show up in our clothing. Plus, picking out the greatest athletes to wear each jersey number.

Featured in this Episode

  • Sorting out sports legends by their jersey numbers

    A new book features stats-driven picks for which sports legends “own” each number, between 1 and 100. We dive into the debates and hear some of the co-author’s choices.

  • Microplastics in clothing

    We also learn more about how microplastics in our clothing get into the environment and how to reduce the pollution.

  • Tracing the John Birch Society's origins in Wisconsin and its impact on conservatism

    The ultraconservative John Birch Society spent the 1960s and 70s pushing the Republican Party further to the right and spreading conspiracy theories along the way. We talk with a political historian about the group and the wealthy Wisconsin businessmen who helped get it off the ground.

Episode Credits

  • Rob Ferrett Host
  • Paul Hembekides Guest
  • Matthew Dallek Guest
  • Dean Knetter Producer
  • Tim Peterson Producer
  • Sarah Hopefl Technical Director