Wow in the World

Episode: WeWow on the Weekend
Release Date: March 23, 2025
Hosts: Dennis and Reggie the Giant Pigeon
Guest: Mindy Thomas
Producer: Tinkercast | Wondery

Introduction: Embracing Mystery and Mischief

The episode kicks off with Mindy Thomas welcoming listeners and introducing the theme for March, which extends beyond madness to include mystery and mischief. She highlights favorite mystery episodes and shares plans for special bite-sized episodes featuring real mysteries from kids. Mindy also mentions a playful initiative involving pigeon droppings sent to World Organization of Wowzer members to inspire mischief and spread "wow" in everyday life.

Mindy Thomas [00:00]: “We've pulled some of our favorite mystery episodes from Wow in the World... added a little mischief and spread a little wow to the people in your life.”

Segment 1: Knitting Antics with Dennis and Reggie

Dennis and Reggie dive into a lighthearted discussion about knitting. Dennis attempts to knit with Reggie but humorously mishaps with his sweater, turning the project into a pocket.

Dennis [01:33]: “I guess I haven't ever seen giant pigeon socks at the Put a Sock in It Sock Emporium... it's more of a pocket now.”

This segment sets a playful tone, showcasing the hosts' camaraderie and creative attempts at crafting.

Segment 2: Inside Tinkercast Studios – Revisiting a Favorite Episode

Dennis introduces "Inside Tinkercast Studios," where they revisit a previous episode titled "Foodie, Foodie, Foodie. Edible insects on the menu." Although interrupted by an unrelated message aimed at grown-ups, the segment underscores the show's commitment to exploring innovative and often unconventional scientific topics.

Dennis [04:25]: “Inside Tinkercast Studios. This is the part where we revisit an episode of one of my favorite Tinkercast shows.”

Segment 3: The Cricket-Powered Food Truck Endeavor

The core of the episode revolves around Mindy Thomas's venture into the food truck business with "Grandma G Force's Old Fashioned Southern Style bbbq," which intriguingly incorporates cricket powder into their offerings. Dennis and Guy Raz join Mindy to discuss the operational struggles and the innovative use of insect protein.

Mindy Thomas [10:15]: “Cricket powder is basically just dried out crickets... crushed into a fine powder and then sprinkled all over your food.”

Guy Raz expresses his initial aversion but gradually becomes intrigued by the environmental benefits of cricket protein.

Guy Raz [12:20]: “Cricket powder is more sustainable or better for the planet than most other forms of protein, like beef, for example.”

Segment 4: Environmental Impact and Nutritional Benefits

A detailed discussion unfolds about the sustainability of cricket powder compared to traditional meat sources. Mindy highlights that producing a quarter-pound hamburger requires approximately 450 gallons of water, emphasizing the resource efficiency of cricket-based proteins.

Mindy Thomas [13:03]: “It takes something like 450 gallons of water just to make one quarter pound hamburger... for the food that we feed them.”

Guy Raz elaborates on the nutritional advantages, citing vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and vitamin B12 found in cricket powder. They reference a study from Colorado State University demonstrating improved gut health and reduced inflammation among participants consuming cricket protein.

Mindy Thomas [14:07]: “According to a study by Tiffany Weir from Colorado State University... these sloppy GS could also improve your gut health.”

Segment 5: Rebranding and Overcoming Challenges

Faced with poor sales, Mindy and Guy Raz brainstorm strategies to enhance the food truck's appeal. They decide to rebrand, leveraging Reggie's artistic skills to create a more health-conscious and visually appealing brand identity. This includes the creative use of spray paint to update the truck's aesthetics.

Guy Raz [23:05]: “Mindy, you want to tinker with the way that you're presenting your food to the public.”

Reggie's transformation of the truck's appearance results in a more professional and enticing look, displaying labels like "ethically sourced, carbon neutral cricket burgers," aligning with health and environmental themes.

Mindy Thomas [24:39]: “Wow, says ethically sourced, carbon neutral cricket burgers.”

The rebranding garners immediate interest, as evidenced by a sudden influx of customers eager to try the revamped offerings.

Segment 6: Conclusion and Future Plans

As the episode winds down, Dennis humorously addresses minor mishaps, such as denim covered in cricket powder. Mindy reflects on the success of the rebranding and the potential for future growth. The hosts encourage listeners to engage with their content through surveys and subscriptions, ensuring continued interaction with the Wow in the World community.

Mindy Thomas [27:05]: “Thanks again for thinking, tinkering, experimenting, and exploring with me this week.”

The episode concludes with acknowledgments of the creative team and a reminder to tune into upcoming shows for more engaging scientific adventures.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mindy Thomas [00:00]: “We've pulled some of our favorite mystery episodes from Wow in the World... added a little mischief and spread a little wow to the people in your life.”
• Dennis [01:33]: “It's more of a pocket now.”
• Mindy Thomas [10:15]: “Cricket powder is basically just dried out crickets... crushed into a fine powder and then sprinkled all over your food.”
• Guy Raz [12:20]: “Cricket powder is more sustainable or better for the planet than most other forms of protein, like beef, for example.”
• Mindy Thomas [13:03]: “It takes something like 450 gallons of water just to make one quarter pound hamburger... for the food that we feed them.”
• Mindy Thomas [14:07]: “According to a study by Tiffany Weir from Colorado State University... these sloppy GS could also improve your gut health.”
• Guy Raz [23:05]: “Mindy, you want to tinker with the way that you're presenting your food to the public.”
• Mindy Thomas [24:39]: “Wow, says ethically sourced, carbon neutral cricket burgers.”

Key Takeaways

1. Innovation in Sustainable Food Sources: The episode highlights the potential of insect-based proteins, particularly cricket powder, as a sustainable and nutritious alternative to traditional meat sources.

2. Environmental Benefits: Cricket protein requires significantly less water and resources compared to beef production, making it an environmentally friendly option.

3. Nutritional Advantages: Cricket powder is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to better gut health and overall nutrition.

4. Creative Marketing and Rebranding: Effective rebranding can transform a struggling business, as demonstrated by Mindy's food truck overhaul, which led to increased customer interest and sales.

5. Engaging Content for All Ages: By blending humor, science, and practical insights, the episode effectively engages both kids and their grown-ups, fostering a shared sense of wonder and curiosity.

Conclusion

"WeWow on the Weekend" delivers a compelling mix of humor, science, and real-world applications, centered around the innovative use of cricket powder in the food industry. Through engaging dialogue and insightful discussions, Dennis, Reggie, and Mindy Thomas present a nuanced exploration of sustainable food practices, nutritional benefits, and the importance of creative marketing. This episode not only educates but also inspires listeners to think critically about the choices they make regarding food and sustainability.