Who Smarted? – Trusty Trivia: SPOTTED LANTERNFLIES!!!
Episode release date: December 11, 2025
Podcast Host: Atomic Entertainment / Starglow Media
Episode Overview
This episode of “Who Smarted?” dives into the fascinating—and slightly alarming—world of the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect causing trouble in parts of the United States. In the bite-sized and humor-packed Trusty Trivia Thursday format, listeners are quizzed on the origins, dangers, and best practices for dealing with this flashy pest. The episode is geared toward kids and families, blending fun and learning while empowering young listeners to play an active role in battling a real-world environmental issue.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
Spotlight on Listeners (01:27)
- Shout-outs: Carla from Portland and James from Seattle are recognized as avid “Who Smarted?” listeners.
- Carla “loves ‘Who Smarted?’ because it helps her learn more.”
- James “thinks ‘Who Smarted?’ is really funny and helps [him] learn new things.”
- Quote:
- “Keep on laughing and learning, you two smarty pants.” (Host, 01:45)
Trivia Questions & Educational Insights
1. Where Did Spotted Lanternflies Come From? (01:55)
- Trivia Choices:
- A) Pennsylvania
- B) China
- C) Venus
- Correct Answer:
- B) China
- Fact: Spotted lanternflies are native to China but have invaded parts of the US, causing damage to trees and crops.
- Quote:
- “Did you say B? That’s right, bugbuster! Spotted lanternflies are native to China, but they’ve become invasive in parts of the US where they damage trees and crops.” (Host, 02:20)
2. What’s the Best Way to Deal with Spotted Lanternflies? (02:30)
- Trivia Choices:
- A) Catch and release
- B) Stomp them
- C) Give them a motivational speech
- Correct Answer:
- B) Stomp them
- Fact: Stomping is actually encouraged to help curb the spread of this invasive species.
- Quote:
- “If you pick B, you’re killing it. Experts recommend stomping them to help stop the spread. It’s one of the rare times that stomping is encouraged.” (Host, 02:45)
3. Why Are Spotted Lanternflies So Harmful? (02:57)
- Trivia Choices:
- A) They eat everything
- B) They buzz too loudly
- C) They suck sap from plants
- Correct Answer:
- C) They suck sap from plants
- Fact: Spotted lanternflies feed by sucking sap, which weakens plants and trees and leaves behind sticky residue that encourages mold growth.
- Quote:
- “Going with C, you’ve nailed the nuisance. Lanternflies feed by sucking sap, weakening trees, and leaving behind sticky goo that promotes mold. You squashed that trivia, Smarty Pants!” (Host, 03:08)
Wrap-Up and Encouragement to Learn More (03:13)
- Host encourages listeners to check out the full Spotted Lanternflies episode in the “Who Smarted?” archives for those seeking more in-depth information.
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- “Let’s flutter into some trivia.” (Host, 01:47)
- “You squashed that trivia, Smarty Pants.” (Host, 03:13)
Important Timestamps
- Listener shout-outs: 01:27 – 01:47
- Question 1 – Origin: 01:55 – 02:20
- Question 2 – What to do: 02:30 – 02:45
- Question 3 – Why harmful: 02:57 – 03:13
- Wrap-up and archive suggestion: 03:13 – 03:33
Episode Tone & Style
The host delivers information in an upbeat, encouraging, and slightly cheeky style, with puns (“flutter into trivia,” “bugging out”), congratulatory affirmations, and engaging direct address (“Smarty Pants”). The format is highly interactive, with short bursts of trivia and immediate feedback, perfectly tailored for elementary-aged kids and family listening.
Summary
This episode packs education and giggles into a quick rundown about the spotted lanternfly. Listeners learn where this pest comes from (China), what to do if they see one (stomp it!), and why it’s bad for plants (it sucks sap and spreads mold). Kids are empowered to help combat an invasive species, all while enjoying zippy trivia and the lively delivery that “Who Smarted?” is known for.
For more facts and fun, listeners are invited to dive deeper in the podcast archives—because on “Who Smarted?” learning is always an adventure!