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 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!
U.S. Armed Forces
There are six service branches of the United States Armed forces, but did you know they’re always listed in a specific order? Watch and listen as Monica Earley covers the founding date and motto of each branch in this fascinating Betcha Didn’t Know!
The Potato Chip
Do you love potato chips? Does it irritate you to buy what you believe to be a FULL bag of potato chips, only to find out when you open it that half the bag is…MISSING? Did you know potato chips were created by…an irritated chef? Grab a [half] bag and listen up! In this Betcha Didn’t Know with Armon Newton, you’re going to learn everything you never knew you needed to know about the potato chip!