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!
Napoleon’s Rabbit War
Hop along with Julie Richard as she unravels bunny myths and delivers a hare-raising tale of Napoleonic misadventure in this very funny Betcha Didn’t Know! Uncover the toothy truths of our long-eared companions. It’s not all about carrots, snuggles, and floppy ears! Discover a world where teeth grow at a fairy-tale pace, big furry feet lead to daring escapes…and even mighty rulers find themselves scampering to safety!
The Hairy Facts
Get ready to be floored by Briley Crisafi’s hair-raising tales! Discover Teddy Roosevelt’s inauguration secret, bust the myth about George Washington’s wig, and venture into the medieval magic of hair. Curious about the texture of your locks? It’s all in the shape! And as for the golden threads in our hair – especially newborns – it’s more real than you think. Dive deep into these follicle facts with this Betcha Didn’t Know episode and uncover the mysteries of our crowning glory!
The Great Depression
Hold on to your forks as Armon J. Newton whisks us through the zaniest culinary tales of the Great Depression! From Eleanor Roosevelt’s interesting choices to the unexpected creation of Kraft Mac & Cheese. Ever considered a corned beef salad in jello or craved Amish coffee soup? Brace your taste buds! This Betcha Didn’t Know is a gastronomic trip through time you won’t want to miss!
The Platypus
Imagine a creature so odd, even scientists doubted its existence! The duck-billed platypus, with features borrowed from ducks, otters, and beavers, baffled experts since its discovery in 1797. But its mysteries run deeper…from electro-receptive hunting abilities to its ancient lineage dating back to the dinosaurs, join Emily Isbell for a thrilling Betcha Didn’t Know, as we delve into the enigmatic world of the platypus!
The Abernathy Brothers
When two boys decide to ride from Oklahoma to New York City, it’s not just about the distance, but the heart and spirit of adventure. With only their ponies and the sky as their map, they journeyed almost 2,000 miles! From meeting presidents to joining the very first ticker-tape parade, these boys sure knew how to make an entrance. In this heartwarming Betcha Didn’t Know from Jimmy Yeary, we pay tribute to the indomitable spirit of the Abernathy Brothers, proving that age is but a number when it comes to epic adventures.
Mushrooms
Join Julie Richard as she uncovers the astonishing world of oyster mushrooms in this latest piece from the Betcha Didn’t Know Dock! Discover how these fungi communicate through an extensive underground network, why the oyster mushroom is more of a carnivorous animal than a plant, and more…. You’ll love this “fun-guide” video!
The Wilhelm Scream
What do Star Wars, Spiderman, The Lord of the Rings, Toy Story, and countless other movies have in common? It’s one of the longest running “inside jokes” in Hollywood and can be traced back more than 70 years…when a man was dragged underwater by an alligator. Seriously! Andy Andrews delivers this hilarious Betcha Didn’t Know. And now, lights, camera, action…scream!
The Mason Jar
Ordinary household items are often overlooked. Curiously, the mason jar has a fascinating past dating all the way back to Emperor Napoleon. Today, you won’t believe what the famous glass company is up to, and that old jar sitting in your basement…it could be worth more than $20,000. Watch as Armon J. Newton unseals it all in this classic Betcha Didn’t Know!
Aunt Sammy
Uncle Sam wants you! Most of us can picture Uncle Sam’s image in our minds. But what about Aunt Sammy? Did you even know there was an Aunt Sammy? In this classic “Betcha Didn’t Know,” Leslie Anne Tarabella tells the story of an important American lady–and why millions of people counted on her during The Great Depression and throughout World War II. Aunt Sammy was a constant presence on national radio for two decades. She received hundreds of thousands of letters. And she wasn’t even real! This is History that has been forgotten…but is still worth knowing today!
Audie Murphy
Too young to enlist, Audie Murphy falsified documents to join the Army and became a national hero. Fighting in World War II, Audie Murphy became the most decorated solider in U.S. history. Recognizable for his accomplishments, he went on to star in more than 40 movies—including playing himself in the 1955 film “To Hell and Back.” Watch and listen to this unbelievable story—with scenes from the movie of the actual Audie Murphy—and you’ll agree, “This man stands taller than John Wayne.”
More Than Rushmore?
Betcha Didn’t Know that Mt. Rushmore is not technically finished… And are you aware of its even bigger neighbor—the Crazy Horse Memorial? Watch and listen as Dr. Mark Foley guides you through the secrets of these two massive monuments. Plus you’ll hear about the hidden chamber deep inside Mt. Rushmore…and the historical documents sealed inside!
The Donut
Would you believe the donut was invented by a cow? That’s the story the early colonials told…but the real story is lots older and much sweeter. From Africa to Asia, the Middle East, Europe, North and South America—just about everyone has their own spin on the famous dessert. So, wherever you are, grab your favorite fried dough and watch this deliciously exciting Betcha Didn’t Know!