Betcha Didn’t Know
Welcome to glimpses into the unknown! You’ll enjoy these short videos featuring history, science, biology, and a few facts about everyday life that no one considers. All information here is delivered by the funny teacher you wished you’d had in high school!
The Buzz About Bees
Betcha Didn’t Know there are around 20,000 bee species worldwide! Join Emily Isbell as she dives into the buzzing world of bees, from the tiniest perdita minima to the giant megachile pluto. Learn how bees’ unique behaviors, like the honeybee’s “waggle dance” and bumblebee’s buzz pollination, play vital roles in our ecosystem. Plus, discover the quirks of honey production, colony life, and their surprisingly hairy eyeballs! This episode is packed with sweet and surprising bee facts you’ll love!
Lady Spies of WWII: Phyllis “Pippa” Latour
Betcha Didn’t Know a WW2 spy outwitted the Nazis with… knitting! Join Briley Crisafi as she unravels the tale of Phyllis “Pippa” Latour, a British secret agent who used knitting to hide secret codes. Disguised as a young girl on a bicycle, Latour transmitted 135 vital messages to aid the Allies during D-Day preparations. Discover how this courageous woman evaded capture, all while wielding her knitting needles as a tool of espionage. This episode is threaded with thrilling history!
Goats & Coffee
Betcha Didn’t Know that coffee was discovered by goats! Join Briley Crisafi as she spills the beans on the legendary origins of our favorite brew. From an Ethiopian goatkeeper’s curious discovery in 850 AD to how these energizing berries became the global drink we know today, this episode is brimming with fascinating coffee facts. Learn how a simple berry transformed into the world’s second most traded commodity, fueling revolutions, philosophies, and even world records. This episode is a jolt of java history!
Playing Cards
Did you know that forging an Ace of Spades in the American colonies was a hanging offense? Join Armon J. Newton as he deals out the fascinating history behind playing cards. From the British Empire’s taxation during the Seven Years War to the evolution of playing card suits from medieval society, this episode is packed with intriguing facts. Discover the historical figures depicted as Kings, Queens, and Jacks, and learn how playing cards were used in World War II to aid American soldiers. Plus, explore the materials and symbolism behind your favorite deck. It’s a full house of fun facts in this Betcha Didn’t Know!
The Blue Whale
Dive into the amazing world of the blue whale with Jeff Allen in this fun and educational Betcha Didn’t Know! Discover fascinating facts about the largest and most intelligent non-human creature on Earth, from its massive size and unique diet to its beautiful, haunting songs. Did you know a blue whale’s tongue weighs more than an elephant? Or that they have belly buttons just like us? Uncover these surprising details and more—it’ll be a whale of a time!
Fireworks
Ignite your curiosity with Andy Andrews in this explosive Betcha Didn’t Know! From a 22-hour firecracker marathon in Hong Kong to the vibrant world of pyrotechnics, learn about the science, art, and even the quirky side of fireworks. Why do people shout “Tamaya!” and “Kagiya!” during a fireworks display in Japan? And what unusual hobbies did Elvis Presley have? This video is a blast—don’t miss out!
The Ferris Wheel
Discover the surprising history behind the Ferris Wheel with Emily Isbell in this Betcha Didn’t Know! Learn how a humble carnival ride stole the spotlight at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, surpassing the thrill provided by the Eiffel Tower at the previous World’s Fair. From initial skepticism to ultimate triumph, follow George Washington Gale Ferris Jr.’s incredible journey as he revolutionized fair attractions. And learn how his invention lives on today, with even grander Ferris wheels around the world!
Crazy Laws Still on the Books
Curious about some of America’s wackiest laws? From ice cream in your back pocket to no donkeys in bathtubs, this Betcha Didn’t Know covers the funniest, strangest regulations still on the books. Ever heard of illegal soup slurping or no whistling underwater? Join Leslie Anne Tarabella for a fun and educational look at these bizarre laws, including why it’s illegal to park your elephant in a metered spot in Florida and much more. You won’t believe these true stories!
The King and His Court
Discover the extraordinary tale of Eddie Feigner, a softball pitcher whose underhanded throws baffled even the best. In this Betcha Didn’t Know, Andy Andrews uncovers the captivating story of Feigner’s journey from local leagues to global fame with his team, The King and His Court. Be amazed by Feigner’s unconventional methods and the sheer audacity of his performances. From striking out baseball legends to charging admission for his unforgettable games, this video promises an intriguing mix of sports history and showmanship. Curious to see how he did it? Tune in to witness a true underdog story that redefines athletic greatness!
The Rhino Who Became Governor
Charge into a tale so bizarre it could only be true: a rhinoceros named Cacareco wins an election in Sao Paulo, Brazil, making political history. This extraordinary victory leads us on a safari through the wonders of rhinoceroses — from their ancient ancestors to the keratin mystery of their mighty horns. Embark on a Betcha Didn’t Know adventure that’s as enlightening as it is unexpected. Get ready for a horn-tooting journey through the annals of history and zoology with Briley Crisafi!
Falling Cats
Paws what you’re doing and explore the enchanting mystery that has puzzled scientists for centuries: How does a falling cat always land on its feet? This captivating Betcha Didn’t Know delves into the history and science behind this phenomenon, exploring four fascinating hypotheses and the latest insights from experts. From Edwin Hubble’s cat “Copernicus” to high-speed photography revelations, join us on a journey through the curious world of feline physics and get ready to be amazed!
Presidential Facts
Join Jimmy Yeary for a whirlwind tour of unexpected presidential tales that we Betcha Didn’t Know! From Thomas Jefferson and James Madison’s arrest over a Sunday carriage ride to John Quincy Adams’s bathtub alligator…delve into humorous and lesser-known stories of presidential pastimes, pets, and peculiar moments. This episode offers a unique glimpse into the personal lives and eccentricities of U.S. Presidents, showcasing history’s lighter side…only on the Betcha Didn’t Know Dock!