The MeatEater Podcast: Episode 741 – "Game On, Suckers! MeatEater Trivia CLXXV"

Release Date: July 30, 2025

Introduction to MeatEater Trivia

In Episode 741 of The MeatEater Podcast, host Steven Rinella teams up with Spencer Newarth to bring listeners an exhilarating episode of MeatEater Trivia, a dynamic game show where conservation always triumphs. This episode features a vibrant mix of guests: Steve Rinella, Giannis, Randall, Seth, Tressa, Nate, and Phil. The game comprises ten rounds covering MeatEater's core verticals—hunting, fishing, conservation, and cooking—with a generous prize of a $500 donation to a conservation organization chosen by the winner.

Notable Quote:

Spencer Newarth [00:49]: "Welcome to MeatEater Trivia, the only game show where conservation always wins."

Meet the Contestants and Setting the Stage

As the trivia begins, Steve Rinella humorously reflects on his recent experiences in Africa, hinting at the challenges that might affect his performance due to the mental exhaustion from extended time in intense environments.

Notable Quotes:

Steve Rinella [01:35]: "I been in here eight hours a day... I've kinda used up a lot of the power I had in this room."

Randall [02:00]: "I had my two, possibly my two worst performances ever in trivia last week."

The camaraderie among the contestants shines as they banter about past trivia performances and engage in lighthearted teasing, setting a fun and competitive tone for the episode.

Trivia Round Highlights

Question 1: Conservation

What state is Congaree National Park located in?

Contestants quickly identify South Carolina as the correct answer, demonstrating their knowledge of national parks.

Notable Quote:

Steve Rinella [18:06]: "I'm back in the game."

Question 2: Hunting

What protein is the main component of horns, hooves, and feathers?

The majority correctly answer keratin, showcasing their understanding of biological structures.

Notable Quote:

Steve Rinella [19:20]: "Keratin is the structural material that makes up scales, hair, nails, claws and more."

Question 3: Woodsmanship

What's the 10-letter name for a mineral formation that grows upward from the floor of a cave?

Again, stalagmite is the correct response, affirming the contestants' knowledge of geological formations.

Notable Quote:

Spencer Newarth [22:14]: "Remember that a stalactite is C for ceiling and stalagmite is G for ground."

Question 4: Fishing

Also known as the bonito shark and blue pointer, what is the fastest shark in the world?

Mako shark emerges as the right answer, with Steve Rinella confidently leading the charge.

Notable Quote:

Steve Rinella [24:02]: "I knew I was gonna get it right."

Question 5: Biology

This mosquito-transmitted disease with a colorful name contributed to 25,000 deaths during the construction of the Panama Canal.

Yellow fever is identified, highlighting the historical impact of diseases on major engineering projects.

Notable Quote:

Spencer Newarth [28:12]: "Yellow Fever... The top causes of death during construction of the Panama Canal were malaria, yellow fever, and industrial accidents."

Question 6: Outdoors

Seth Green stars in this 2004 comedy about a group of friends who canoe a remote river in search of D.B. Cooper's treasure.

The answer "Without a Paddle" is given, albeit amidst humorous confusion and playful hints among contestants.

Notable Quote:

Spencer Newarth [32:02]: "If you're gonna do a movie, an old movie that old, it should be a classic or a cult classic."

Question 7: Fishing

Waiter soles made of this material are banned in places such as Maryland, Nebraska, and Yellowstone National Park.

Felt is the correct answer, emphasizing the importance of preventing invasive species spread.

Notable Quote:

Phil [34:24]: "I do, yeah."

Question 8: Cooking

These Czech pastries are traditionally filled with sweetened cheese or fruit, but Texans serve a savory version with sausage or ham.

The answer kolache is revealed after a series of hints and playful exchanges, celebrating Czech culinary influence in Texas.

Notable Quote:

Steve Rinella [38:27]: "Pinky Toscadero... The Malachi crunch was in Happy Days."

Question 9: Natural History

Lewis and Clark traveled in this type of eight-letter boat that was 55ft long and 8ft wide.

Keelboat is correctly identified, showcasing historical knowledge of exploration vessels.

Notable Quote:

Steve Rinella [45:07]: "He's kind of stupid.”

Question 10: Hunting

Wildfowl magazine says this type of goose call, which shares its name with a musical instrument, is more difficult to learn but offers a greater sound portfolio.

Flute wins this final round, with Steve Rinella securing his victory through his familiarity with hunting equipment.

Notable Quote:

Steve Rinella [48:56]: "I really mess with that much, but... they’re like real popular out in Chesapeake Bay."

Anecdotes and Side Discussions

Throughout the trivia game, Steve Rinella shares gripping stories from his time in Africa, particularly his encounters with the formidable black mamba. These narratives not only add depth to the episode but also highlight the real-life dangers faced by outdoor enthusiasts.

Notable Quotes:

Steve Rinella [05:00]: "With half of himself up in the air. When that son of a bitch was going through the woods that me and Dirk saw."

Tressa [04:18]: "Stretcher, but you don't live with those."

Additionally, discussions about traditional hunting practices, such as making beehives and the challenges of fire management in the wild, enrich the conversation with practical insights.

Notable Quote:

Steve Rinella [07:46]: "No dragon to slay?"

Final Scores and Winner Announcement

As the trivia concludes, Steve Rinella emerges victorious with eight correct answers, prompting a celebratory announcement and the determination of the $500 donation to the MeatEater Land Access Initiative. The friendly banter continues as participants reflect on their performances and share lighthearted moments.

Notable Quote:

Steve Rinella [49:37]: "I'm gonna go with our own land access initiative."

Final Scoreboard:

• Steve Rinella: 8 points
• Giannis Patelis: 6 points
• Randall: 6 points
• Nate: 7 points
• Tressa: 7 points
• Seth: 3 points
• Phil: 0 points

Conclusion and Future Episodes

The episode wraps up with appreciation for the contestants' participation and a tease for future trivia episodes. Steve Rinella hints at upcoming initiatives aimed at enhancing land access, ensuring that the spirit of conservation and outdoor exploration remains at the forefront of MeatEater's mission.

Notable Quote:

Spencer Newarth [51:42]: "Join us next week for more MeatEater Trivia. The only game show where conservation always wins."

Key Takeaways

• Engaging Format: MeatEater Trivia provides an entertaining and educational platform, blending knowledge with personal anecdotes.

• Conservation Emphasis: The prize donation underscores the show's commitment to conservation efforts.

• Guest Dynamics: The friendly competition and banter among participants enhance the episode's appeal, making it enjoyable for both regular listeners and newcomers.

Stay Connected: For more engaging discussions on hunting, fishing, conservation, and cooking, subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast on your preferred streaming platform and follow them on social media for updates on upcoming episodes and events.

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of Episode 741, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't tuned in yet.