Two Whats?! And A Wow! - Hi Tech! (2/21/25)

Summary

Wow in the World: "Two Whats?! And A Wow! - Hi Tech!" Episode Summary

Release Date: February 21, 2025

In the February 21, 2025 episode of "Wow in the World" titled "Two Whats?! And A Wow! - Hi Tech!", hosts Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz engage listeners in an exhilarating scientific game show centered around technology. The episode is part of the popular segment "Two What's and a Wow", designed to challenge participants' knowledge by distinguishing between factual "wows" and fabricated "whats." This summary delves into the three competitive rounds, highlighting key moments, discussions, and insights shared by the hosts and contestants.

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Introduction to "Two What's and a Wow"

At the heart of the episode lies the interactive game show "Two What's and a Wow," where participants are presented with three technological statements in each round. Among these, only one statement is a true "wow," while the other two are playful fabrications known as "whats." Contestants aim to identify the genuine wow to earn points, with incorrect guesses resulting in amusing physical challenges.

Guy Raz introduces the game by stating:

[03:11] "The scientific game show that separates the Wows from the what's, and the category or theme for today is technology."

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Round One: Unconventional Power Sources

The first round challenges the contestants' understanding of unconventional technological feats.

Round One Statements:

• A: The first word printed on the Gutenberg press was "ahoy."
• B: iPhones can be charged with oranges.
• C: The first motion picture actually featured Grandma G force.

After thoughtful deliberation, contestant Eilis from Nashville correctly identifies statement B as the true wow.

Eilis declares:

[05:17] "What my wow is: A study showed that you can charge an iPhone with oranges."

Mindy Thomas elaborates on this fascinating fact:

[05:33] "That's right, Mindy. It took 2,380 slices of oranges to help power an iPhone back in 2010. That's about 238 oranges."

She further explains the science behind this:

[05:47] "Turns out there's an acid in oranges and other citrus fruits called citric acid. When combined with conductors like copper and zinc, it can produce small currents of electricity."

Guy Raz humorously adds a practical perspective:

[06:06] "But when it comes to charging your phone, using a USB charger connected to the wall is probably still the zest. I mean, best choice."

Implications: This round highlights the innovative ways in which everyday items like oranges can be harnessed for electrical energy, albeit impractical for regular use.

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Round Two: Evolution of Computing Tools

The second round delves into the history and evolution of computing devices.

Round Two Statements:

• A: The television was invented before the popsicle.
• B: Scientists are developing technology to convert cotton candy into plastic plane fuel.
• C: The first computer mouses were made out of wood.

Contestant Kuve triumphantly selects statement C as the authentic wow.

Kuve proclaims:

[07:25] "Hi Mindy and Guy Raz. My wow is that the first computer mouses were made of wood."

Mindy Thomas confirms and provides historical context:

[07:37] "Doug Engelbart invented the first computer mouse way back in the 1960s. And the first model was made out of wood."

She adds an interesting tidbit about the nomenclature:

[07:57] "That's right, Mindy. Have you ever wondered why it's called a mouse? Well, the first computer mouses had a wire that came out of the back just like a tail on a mouse."

Guy Raz further amusingly links the term to pop culture:

[08:09] "I also heard it was named after Clicky Mouse, Mickey's not so famous cousin."

Implications: This round underscores the humble beginnings of essential computing peripherals, emphasizing the ingenuity involved in their early designs.

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Round Three: The Colorful World of Pixels

The final round explores the complexities of digital displays and emerging technologies.

Round Three Statements:

• A: When you see a white pixel on a computer screen, it's actually made up of red, green, and blue.
• B: Dennis actually auditioned to be the voice of Siri.
• C: The first self-driving car was invented in 2005.

Contestant Maddie from Washington adeptly identifies statement A as the true wow.

Maddie shares:

[10:36] "My wow in the world is that when you see white on a computer screen, it's actually made up of a pixel that is red, green, and blue."

Mindy Thomas confirms and elaborates on the science:

[10:49] "Each pixel on your computer screen is typically made up of three teeny tiny lights. One red, one blue, and one green. Based on increasing or decreasing the amount of light coming from each of the red, blue, and green lights, over 16 million colors can be made."

Guy Raz corrects the misinformation in the alternative statement:

[11:26] "If you guessed C that self-driving cars were invented in 2005, well it turns out scientists were working on self-driving cars way back in 1939, maybe even earlier."

Implications: This round illuminates the foundational technology behind digital displays, offering listeners a deeper appreciation of the screen's intricate design.

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Conclusion and Highlights

Throughout the episode, Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz maintain an engaging and educational tone, seamlessly blending humor with informative content. Notable highlights include:

• Interactive Engagement: The use of unique caller interactions, such as answering in a "best radio voice" or "honk the horn on your self-driving car," adds a layer of fun and personalization to the show.

• Educational Insights: Each correct "wow" is accompanied by detailed explanations, enriching listeners' understanding of the underlying technologies.

• Hosts' Chemistry: The playful banter between Mindy and Guy enhances the overall listening experience, making complex topics accessible and entertaining.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Guy Raz on Charging with Oranges:

  [05:28] "That's right, Mindy. It took 2,380 slices of oranges to help power an iPhone back in 2010."

• Mindy Thomas on Computer Mouses:

  [07:37] "Doug Engelbart invented the first computer mouse way back in the 1960s. And the first model was made out of wood."

• Mindy Thomas on Pixel Colors:

  [10:49] "Each pixel on your computer screen is typically made up of three teeny tiny lights. One red, one blue, and one green."

• Guy Raz Correcting Self-Driving Car Myth:

  [11:26] "Scientists were working on self-driving cars way back in 1939, maybe even earlier."

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Final Thoughts

This episode of "Wow in the World" masterfully combines education with entertainment, encouraging curiosity and learning about technological advancements. By challenging both kids and their grown-ups with intriguing statements, the hosts foster a shared sense of discovery and awe. Whether it's charging phones with oranges or the origins of the computer mouse, listeners are left with delightful "wows" that inspire further exploration into the world of technology.

Transcript

[Mindy Thomas]

Hey Wowzer fams. Mindy here. And before we start the show, did you know that you can now play two Whats in a wow on your wrist? That's right, Reg two what's in a wow is now available on the Samsung Galaxy Watch for kids. Here's the scoop when you download the 2 what's in a while app on Google Play, a new daily 2 what's in a while game will be pushed to the app at a different time every day, excluding school hours, of course. So now you can guess the Wows from the what's wherever you are. Plus, don't forget to add the free wow in the World seasonal watch face so Guy, Raz, Reggie and I can all hang out with you on your watch. That's two Whats in a wow now available to download on your Wear OS watch for free on Google Play. You can learn [e-mail] watch that's tinkercast.com watch.

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[Guy Raz]

And now for everyone's second favorite game show. After putting off those computer software updates, it's two what's and the wow.

[Mindy Thomas]

With.

[Guy Raz]

Your hosts Mindy and Guy Rye.

[Mindy Thomas]

Hello and welcome back to 2 what's in a wow. 2 what's in a wow.

[Guy Raz]

The scientific game show that separates the Wows from the what's and the category or theme for today is technology. Mindy, why don't you refresh our listeners on how the game works?

[Mindy Thomas]

You know it, Guy Raz. Wowzers. In each of our three rounds today, Guy Raz and I will present you with three scientific statements about technology. And this is a big but only one of those statements will be a true wow. The other two, just a couple of made up. What?

[Guy Raz]

Now, in each round, if you guess correctly, congratulations, you win a point.

[Mindy Thomas]

But if you guess incorrectly, you must stop, drop and do a redonkulous physical challenge.

[Guy Raz]

Okay, everyone ready to get this show going?

[Mindy Thomas]

Yes.

[Guy Raz]

Round one. Which of the following statements is a true scientific wow? Is it A, the first word printed on the Gutenberg press was ahoy?

[Mindy Thomas]

Or is it B? IPhones can be charged with oranges?

[Guy Raz]

Or is it C? The first motion picture actually featured grandma G force.

[Mindy Thomas]

And when you think you have the correct answer, say it in your best radio voice. Oh, and Reggie, cue the thinking music.

[Guy Raz]

And time is up. Let's now reveal the winning wow.

[Mindy Thomas]

And to do just that, it's Eilis from Nashville, Tennessee. Oh, Eyliss, tell us, what's the winning wow? My wow is a study showed that you can charge an iPhone with oranges. Winner, winner, orange iPhones for dinner.

[Guy Raz]

Thank you, Ilis. Contestants, if you guessed the answer B that iPhones can be charged with oranges, well, congratulations. You found the winning wow.

[Mindy Thomas]

Need to juice up your phone. Well, orange ya. Glad you can use an orange.

[Guy Raz]

That's right, Mindy. It took 2,380 slices of oranges to help power an iPhone back in 2010. That's about 238 oranges.

[Mindy Thomas]

And how in the wow does this happen? Well, turns out there's an acid in oranges and other citrus fruits called citric acid. And when this acid is combined with conductors of electricity like copper and zinc, it can produce small currents of electricity.

[Guy Raz]

Exactly, Mindy. But when it comes to charging your phone, using a USB charger connected to the wall is probably still the zest. I mean, best choice.

[Mindy Thomas]

Now, if you did not get that answer correct, you must stop, drop, and go find an object that rhymes with orange.

[Guy Raz]

Okay, time for round two. Which of the following statements is a true scientific wow? Is it A, the television was invented.

[Mindy Thomas]

Before the popsicle, or is it B, scientists are developing technology to convert cotton candy into plastic plane fuel.

[Guy Raz]

Or is it C, the first computer mouses were made out of wood.

[Mindy Thomas]

Huh, lots to think about here. Well, when you think you have the correct answer, shout your answer to your Alexa or smart speaker.

[Guy Raz]

And Time is up and joining us by phone, it's Kuve with our winning wow.

[Mindy Thomas]

Hi Mindy and Guy Raz. My wow is that the first computer mounted were made of wood. Winner, winner, computer mouses for dinner.

[Guy Raz]

Thank you Kuve. Wowzers. If you guessed see that the first computer mouses were made of wood. Well, congratulations. You found the winning wow.

[Mindy Thomas]

Doug Engelbart invented the first computer mouse way back in the 1960s. And the first model was made out of wood.

[Guy Raz]

That's right, Mindy. And have you ever wondered why it's called a mouse? Well, the first computer mouses had a wire that came out of the back just like a tail on a mouse.

[Mindy Thomas]

Oh, and I also heard it was named after clicky Mouse, Mickey's not so famous cousin. Now if you did not get that answer correct, you must stop, drop and press the control alt delete keys with your elbows. And now it's time to take a moment to thank our sponsors. Today's show is brought to you in part by Grandma GeForce's mid century toaster. This antique has all of the charm of a modern toaster with half the functionality. It conveniently comes with two settings. One for your bread burnt and one if you like it extra burnt. Oh, and don't forget, for safety reasons, you must turn off all of the lights in your house before you use it. Grandma GeForce's mid century toaster.

[Guy Raz]

Thank you, Grandma GeForce's mid century Toaster. Why don't we take a quick break and hear some other important messages for grown ups.

[Mindy Thomas]

Two what's in a while. We'll be right back. Grown ups, this message is for you. That's it. Now back to the show.

[Guy Raz]

Welcome back to two what's and a wow.

[Mindy Thomas]

Two what's and a wow. The scientific game show that separates the wows from the what.

[Guy Raz]

And now, now we're on to our final round of questions. Round three. Which of the following statements is a true scientific wow? Is it A, when you see a white pixel on a computer screen, it's actually made up of red, green and blue?

[Mindy Thomas]

Or is it B? Dennis actually auditioned to be the voice of Siri?

[Guy Raz]

Or is it C? The first self driving car was invented in 2005.

[Mindy Thomas]

Now take a second to think this over and when you think you have the correct answer, honk the horn on your self driving car.

[Guy Raz]

And time is up. And joining us by phone with the answer, it's Maddie from Washington. Maddie, please tell us the winning wow.

[Mindy Thomas]

My wow in the world is that when you see white on a computer screen. It's actually made of a pixel that is red, blue and green. Winner, winner, pixels for dinner.

[Guy Raz]

That's right Matty. Wowzers. If you guessed a that when you see a white pixel on a computer screen, it's made up of of red, green and blue. Well congratulations. You found the winning wow.

[Mindy Thomas]

It's true. Each pixel on your computer screen is typically made up of three teeny tiny lights. One red, one blue and one green. And based on increasing or decreasing the amount of light coming from each of the red, blue and green lights, over 16 million people colors can be made.

[Guy Raz]

And speaking of green lights, Wowzers. If you guessed c that self driving cars were invented in 2005, well it turns out scientists were working on self driving cars way back in 1939. Maybe even earlier.

[Mindy Thomas]

Totally bonkerballs. Now if you did not get that answer correct, you must stop, drop and count to 16 million with your toes.

[Guy Raz]

What was that?

[Mindy Thomas]

Oh Guy Raz, that sound can mean only one thing.

[Guy Raz]

We traveled back in time to the 1990s.

[Mindy Thomas]

Nope. But that's a good guess. Guy Raz, that sound means it's time to give prizes to all of our winning Wowzers. All of our contestants today will be receiving their very own personal Bluetooth.

[Guy Raz]

Nice. Like Bluetooth headphones or speakers.

[Mindy Thomas]

No, that wasn't in the budget so I painted some of these fake teeth blue instead. Reggie, cue the prize cannon. Fire away.

[Guy Raz]

Oh no. Well that's about all the time we have for. But if you want to keep the fun going, then become a member of the world organization of Wowzers and unlock hundreds of activities.

[Mindy Thomas]

And if you're a teacher out there listening, make sure you join tinkerclass. It's our free project based learning program. For more just visit Tinkercast.com membership that's Tinkercast.com membership to bring Tinkerclass into your classroom.

[Guy Raz]

And be sure to come back on Monday for a brand new episode of.

[Mindy Thomas]

Wow in the World and again on Friday for a new episode of Tune. What's in a wow? And don't forget we wow on the weekend with Dennis.

[Guy Raz]

Until then, keep on wowing.

[Mindy Thomas]

2. What's 2, what's 2, what's 2, WHAT'S 2, WHAT'S 2, what's 2 what's and a wow Grown ups. If you like wow in the world, you can listen early and ad free right now on Wondry.

[Guy Raz]

Join Wondery in the Wondery app or on Wondery Kids plus on Apple Podcasts prime members can listen ad free on Amazon Music.

[Mindy Thomas]

And before you go, tell us about yourself by filling out a short [e-mail] survey. Thanks for playing along with our show. If you're a kid with a big wow. To share, call our wow hotline at 1-888-7-WOW wow and you just might be featured on an upcoming episode of 2 what's in a wow? Once again, that's 1-888-7-WOW.

[Guy Raz]

And to keep the wow rolling, visit [e-mail] There you can become a member of the World Organization of wowzers to get year round mailings and weekly activities. You can shop our wow. Shop, get tickets for upcoming live events, find our best selling books and learn all about our other amazing podcasts from Tinkercast Grown Ups.

[Mindy Thomas]

You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter owintheworld and our email address is hello in Tinkercast.com 2 what's in.

[Guy Raz]

A wow is executive produced by Meredith Halpern, Ranzer, Mindy Thomas and me, Guy Raz.

[Mindy Thomas]

These episodes are written by our Tinkercast Head writer Kenny Curtis and Anna Zagorski.

[Guy Raz]

Sound production and design is by Mariam Lozano and Henry Moskal with help from Jed Anderson and Tyler Thole and special.

[Mindy Thomas]

Thanks to our Tinkercast team including Rebecca Caban, Dr. Natasha Crandall, Kristin Yang, Thuy Mac, Erica Medina, Jodi Nussbaum, Ally Paxsima, Linda Rothenberg, Steph Sosa and all of the other Tinkerers at Tinkercast hq.

[Guy Raz]

Our theme song was written and composed by the Pop Ups. For more on their three time Grammy nominated all ages music.

[Mindy Thomas]

Find them at the thanks again for listening and for playing along with us. Meet us back here every Friday for more episodes of to what's in a wow. Saturday and Sunday for We wow on the Weekend with Dennis and Mondays for Wow in the World. It's all right here on the wow in the World podcast feed.

[Guy Raz]

Until then, keep on wowing wow in the World.

[Mindy Thomas]

Wow in the World Wow in the world wow in the world wow in the World Wow in the World was made by Tinkercast and sent to you by Wondery.