Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities: "Fizzy Lifting Drinks" – Detailed Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and Grim & Mild
• Episode: Fizzy Lifting Drinks
• Release Date: July 3, 2025

Introduction to the Episode Fizzy Lifting Drinks delves into two captivating tales from history that blend innovation, ambition, and the quest for distinction. Hosted by Aaron Mahnke, the episode navigates through the lives of pioneering individuals and the creation of iconic products that have left an indelible mark on society.

1. John Glenn: From Test Pilot to First American Astronaut

Setting the Stage Aaron Mahnke begins by transporting listeners to October 4, 1957, a pivotal day marked by both personal ambition and global tension. (Timestamp: [00:38])

John Glenn’s Early Aspirations John Glenn, a dedicated test pilot from Ohio, was passionate about aviation from a young age. His childhood fascination with planes led him to obtain a private pilot's license in 1941. By the time World War II erupted, Glenn had already amassed significant flying experience, fulfilling his dream of becoming a fighter pilot.

Military Career and Rise to Prominence Glenn's military prowess was evident as he flew 57 missions in the Pacific during World War II and continued his valor into the Korean War, earning a reputation as a fearless pilot. His expertise caught the public's eye, especially during his interactions with notable figures like Boston Red Sox legend Ted Williams. (Timestamp: [02:30])

Transition to Test Pilot and Becoming a Celebrity Post-war, Glenn transitioned to a test pilot role within the Navy. Seeking to showcase his skills and the Navy's advancements, he orchestrated the first supersonic transcontinental flight on July 16, 1957, breaking existing records and catapulting him into the spotlight. This feat was covered extensively by the New York Times, solidifying his status as a national hero.

Name that Tune and the Sputnik Connection Glenn's appearance on the game show Name that Tune coincided with the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik, igniting the space race. The juxtaposition of his media presence and the geopolitical climate highlighted the urgency for America to advance its space program. Glenn voiced his determination to contribute, stating, "I want to join the fight higher," reflecting his commitment to national security and exploration. (Timestamp: [04:15])

Becoming the First American Astronaut Responding to the heightened need for skilled individuals in space exploration, Glenn was among the first to be selected for NASA's astronaut program. On February 20, 1962, aboard Friendship 7, he overcame numerous technical challenges to safely orbit Earth, marking a monumental achievement in American space history. (Timestamp: [05:00])

Notable Quote:

"John Glenn became the first American astronaut to safely orbit our planet. An achievement that wasn't just incredible, it was literally out of this world." (Timestamp: [05:25])

2. The Birth of 7 Up: Crafting the "Uncola"

The Beverage Boom of the Early 20th Century Mahnke shifts focus to the burgeoning soft drink industry of the early 1900s, highlighting the dominance of Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola. This era was ripe for innovation, prompting entrepreneurs like Charles Leiper Grigg to seek differentiation in the crowded market. (Timestamp: [07:20])

Charles Leiper Grigg’s Vision Grigg, an advertising professional, envisioned a distinct alternative to the overly sweet colas. His goal was to create a "Uncola" that stood out through unique flavors and ingredients. His initial foray involved an orange-flavored soda named Whistle in 1919, which, despite its promise, fell victim to internal disputes. Undeterred, Grigg launched Howdy, another orange-based drink, which struggled to compete against established brands like Orange Crush. (Timestamp: [08:10])

Pivot to Lemon-Based Formulas Realizing the need for innovation beyond orange flavors, Grigg experimented with lemon-based sodas. The market lacked a properly franchised lemon soda, presenting an opportunity. After extensive testing of over a dozen flavor combinations, he developed a formula that would soon revolutionize the beverage industry. (Timestamp: [09:45])

Incorporating Lithium Citrate: The Unique Ingredient A standout feature of Grigg's formula was the inclusion of lithium citrate, a popular mood stabilizer at the time. This ingredient not only differentiated the drink but also became a cornerstone of its marketing strategy. The beverage, initially known as Bib Label Lithiated Lemon Lime Carbonated Soda, was set to hit the market just before the Great Depression, a period that would see increased demand for comforting and affordable luxuries. (Timestamp: [10:30])

Rebranding to 7 Up To streamline the product's branding, the name was shortened from its lengthy original to Lithiated Lemon Soda. However, this still lacked the punch needed to capture consumer interest. The final name, 7 Up, was chosen for its catchy nature, though its exact origin remains a topic of historical debate—ranging from references to lithium’s atomic mass to the number of ingredients in the final recipe. (Timestamp: [11:10])

Marketing and Legacy Early advertisements emphasized the drink's unique blend of seven natural flavors and its ability to boost mood, subtly hinting at its lithium content. The success of 7 Up not only established it as a major player in the soda industry but also paved the way for its enduring legacy, adapting through the years by removing lithium citrate while maintaining its distinctive market position. (Timestamp: [12:00])

Notable Quote:

"Almost a century later, it is still regarded as one of the giants of the soda world, although in the years since its invention, certain adjustments have needed to be made." (Timestamp: [13:15])

Conclusion In Fizzy Lifting Drinks, Aaron Mahnke expertly weaves together stories of remarkable individuals and innovative products that have shaped modern history. From John Glenn's daring ascent into space to the ingenious creation of 7 Up, the episode underscores the relentless pursuit of excellence and the impact of visionary thinking.

Final Thoughts: Mahnke concludes by inviting listeners to stay curious and continue exploring the extraordinary facets of our world, encapsulating the essence of the Cabinet of Curiosities series.

Additional Information: For those interested in delving deeper, the official Cabinet of Curiosities book is available here.

Stay connected and explore more intriguing stories by subscribing to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or visiting curiositiespodcast.com.

This summary is crafted to provide a comprehensive overview of the "Fizzy Lifting Drinks" episode for those who haven't listened, capturing all key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented by Aaron Mahnke.