The Strange, Surprising History of Urine episode artwork

EPISODE · Mar 18, 2026 · 48 MIN

The Strange, Surprising History of Urine

from Info On The Go · host William and Kat

Send us Fan MailLiquid Gold? The Strange, Surprising History of UrineWhat if I told you people once paid taxes on urine… that Roman laundries depended on it, that medieval doctors diagnosed disease by studying it, and that modern scientists are now turning it into fertilizer, medicine, and even energy?In this episode of Info On The Go, we explore one of the most overlooked substances in human history. From ancient Roman street pots and textile workshops to alchemy experiments that discovered phosphorus, urine has played roles in industry, agriculture, medicine, and even warfare. It helped clean clothes, make gunpowder, diagnose illness, and launch breakthroughs in modern chemistry.Along the way we’ll uncover strange traditions, surprising science, and a few persistent myths—like whether it actually helps with jellyfish stings.It may be the ultimate waste product, but history tells a very different story. Sometimes the things we flush away turn out to be surprisingly valuable.This is the strange, fascinating story of humanity’s most unlikely resource. 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 Looking for something new to do with family or friends? Check out QR Hunter, the build-your-own scavenger hunt game that turns any home, backyard, or park into an exciting adventure! Simply purchase the official QR Hunter QR code tiles on Amazon, download the free QR Hunter app, hide the QR codes, create your own clues, and let the hunt begin. When you're finished, just hide the codes in new places and play again! It's perfect for kids and adults alike, combining f 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

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Mar 18, 2026

Embed this episode

Send us Fan Mail Liquid Gold? The Strange, Surprising History of Urine What if I told you people once paid taxes on urine… that Roman laundries depended on it, that medieval doctors diagnosed disease by studying it, and that modern scientists are now turning it into fertilizer, medicine, and even energy? In this episode of Info On The Go, we explore one of the most overlooked substances in human history. From ancient Roman street pots and textile workshops to alchemy experiments that discover...

Distinct summary based on available episode metadata or transcript content.

Ready to play

The Strange, Surprising History of Urine

0:00 48:06

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Info On The Go?

This episode is 48 minutes long.

When was this Info On The Go episode published?

This episode was published on March 18, 2026.

Can I download this Info On The Go episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!