The Handshake Trust, Power, and Germs (A Dash of Info)

Send us Fan MailA handshake seems simple: two hands, one quick shake. But behind that familiar gesture lies a story stretching thousands of years — a tale of trust, politics, culture, power… and yes, even germs. From ancient Mesopotamian carvings to Greek art, Roman forearm grips, and medieval oaths of loyalty, the handshake has long symbolized peace, respect, and the assurance that neither party carried a hidden weapon. Over centuries, it evolved into a political tool — a silent power move used by kings, diplomats, presidents, and CEOs.But not all handshakes are created equal. You’ll explore cultural variations from Japan to Africa to the Middle East, where subtle changes in grip, duration, and style communicate everything from humility to deep friendship. And in Part 4, things get… germy. Long before COVID-19 made us rethink greetings, scientists warned that the humble handshake is a prime vehicle for spreading illness. The pandemic reshaped global greeting habits, raising the question: Will the handshake survive?We’ll also unpack the handshake’s place in law and business: Are handshake deals real? Can they hold up in court? What conditions make them binding — and when are they legally meaningless?Packed with quirky facts, historical moments, famous diplomatic photos, etiquette tips, and surprising science, this episode reveals how a simple gesture became a global symbol of trust and human connection… and a biological gamble.Whether you’re a habitual hand-shaker, a fist-bumper, or someone who now hesitates before reaching out, this is the story behind the gesture we all take for granted.From ancient alliances to modern germs — this is the handshake like you’ve never heard it before. Being Me Is the Best Thing to Be by Judy Erb tells the story of Honey, a curious little turtle who learns that being herself is the very best thing to be. It's a wonderful read for children, parents, and grandparents, celebrating self-confidence and self-acceptance. Be Like Honey Being Me Is the Best Thing to Be by Judy Erb tells the story of Honey, a curious little turtle who  Fresh From Cache™Created by IT professional Joel Folgner, Fresh From Cache delivers tech news, how-tos, and straightf PatreonSupport the show by becoming Patreon . Listen AD free and a week early. Have some one on one time wiOld GloryUse Code INFOGO to get 15% off at checkoutCozy EarthUse Code INFOGO to get 21% OFF Strong Coffee Company Get 20% OFF at cheSupport the showThank You for listening and Stay curious,Kat & WilliamEmail  [email protected] you would like to support Info On The Go click the link belowhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2434258/support Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts and leave us a review.Follow us on Facebook at Info on the Go!https://www.facebook.com/share/g/159DdiptQh/?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://infoonthego.buzzsprout.com