The MeatEater Podcast: Ep. 650 - "Game On, Suckers! MeatEater Trivia CXLVII" Release Date: January 15, 2025

Introduction In Episode 650 of The MeatEater Podcast, host Spencer Newhart steps into the role of trivia master for a vibrant and competitive episode of "MeatEater Trivia." Joined by a diverse group of guests—Giannis, Cal, Brody, Randall, Seth, Hansi, Corey, and Nate—the episode promises an engaging mix of hunting, fishing, conservation, and cooking knowledge, all infused with the signature MeatEater humor and camaraderie.

Trivia Game Kickoff The episode swiftly transitions from brief advertisements to the heart of the show: a 10-round trivia contest with questions drawn from MeatEater’s four core verticals. Spencer kickstarts the atmosphere with enthusiasm, introducing the prize—a $500 donation to a conservation organization chosen by the winner. The camaraderie is evident from the outset, with Spencer highlighting Phil’s past contributions, such as his highly viewed episode "Phil's Cinema Trivia" which garnered a 32% increase in YouTube views ([03:55]).

Round-by-Round Breakdown

1. Woodsmanship: 14ers

   • Question: Which of these states does not have a 14er? (Washington, Colorado, California, Idaho)
   • Notable Interaction: Randall quickly identifies Idaho as the correct answer, humorously noting its proximity to a potential 14er peak ([11:05]).
   • Quote: "14ers are mountains with an elevation over 14,000ft." ([11:05])

2. Conservation: Prescribed Burns

   • Question: What is another term for a controlled burn as defined by the U.S. Forest Service?
   • Discussion: The room debates the term "prescribed burn" versus alternatives like "backburn."
   • Insights: Spencer explains the ecological benefits of prescribed burns in managing wildfire risks and ecosystem health ([16:47]).

3. Fishing: Kelp

   • Question: What term refers to brown algae that grows as large coastal seaweeds in colder seas?
   • Answer: Kelp
   • Humorous Moment: Phil remarks on kids using kelp as whips, adding levity to the scientific discussion ([20:27]).

4. Natural History: Amber

   • Question: What female name is also the term for fossilized tree resin?
   • Answer: Amber
   • Notable Quote: Spencer recites a summary related to "Jurassic Park," enhancing the educational aspect ([21:03]).

5. Hunting: Wild Turkey Bourbon

   • Question: Which Kentucky bourbon was named after an executive’s annual bird hunt in 1940?
   • Answer: Wild Turkey
   • Guest Commentary: Brody rates Wild Turkey Bourbon as "totally serviceable," providing a subjective review that adds personality to the trivia ([29:10]).

6. Biology: Egg-Laying Mammals

   • Question: Besides the platypus, which other mammal lays eggs?
   • Answer: Echidna
   • Educational Insight: Spencer elaborates on the unique physiological traits of these mammals, such as their single duct for waste and reproduction ([35:43]).

7. Fishing: Lake Champlain’s Monster, Champ

   • Question: Which American lake is home to the legendary monster Champ?
   • Answer: Lake Champlain
   • Discussion: The questioned its association with cryptids like Loch Ness, blending folklore with ecological facts ([39:08]).

8. Cooking: Carpaccio

   • Question: What is the nine-letter dish defined as thinly sliced raw meat or fish served with a sauce?
   • Answer: Carpaccio
   • Historical Note: Spencer shares the origins of carpaccio in 1950s Venice, linking culinary arts to cultural history ([43:29]).

9. Conservation: Loggerhead Sea Turtle Nesting Site

   • Question: Where is the largest loggerhead sea turtle nesting site found in the world?
   • Answer: Florida
   • Environmental Insight: Spencer discusses loggerhead turtle populations and conservation efforts, highlighting Florida’s significant nesting records ([47:04]).

10. Hunting: Marco Polo Sheep

    • Question: What subspecies of Argali sheep, native to Central Asia, is named after an Italian explorer?
    • Answer: Marco Polo Sheep
    • Final Insights: Spencer underscores the challenges of hunting such elusive and threatened species, connecting historical exploration to modern wildlife management ([50:15]).

Closing and Winner Announcement As the game concludes, Brody emerges victorious with nine correct answers, earning the privilege to direct the $500 donation. The group decides to support the Utah BHA (Buck Hunters Association), reflecting their commitment to ongoing conservation battles. The episode wraps with Spencer expressing gratitude and teasing future trivia sessions, ensuring listeners are already anticipating the next episode of MeatEater Trivia.

Notable Quotes:

• Spencer Newhart [09:53]: "Game on, suckers!"
• Phil [27:09]: "What are you gonna do this weekend? Do you say, I'm going bird hunting."
• Cal [29:27]: "Wild Turkey makes you feel too, to be fair."

Conclusion Episode 650 of The MeatEater Podcast masterfully blends competitive trivia with educational content and engaging interactions among its participants. By covering a wide range of topics relevant to outdoor enthusiasts, the episode not only entertains but also informs, staying true to the podcast's mission of enriching listeners' understanding of the natural world. With memorable moments and a strong emphasis on conservation, "Game On, Suckers! MeatEater Trivia CXLVII" stands out as a testament to The MeatEater Podcast’s enduring appeal and commitment to its community.