Lateral with Tom Scott 158: Room 556
19 snips
Oct 17, 2025 
Join comedy writer Jay Foreman and co-host Mark Cooper-Jones of the Map Men as they delve into quirky geographical trivia. They tackle puzzling questions like why aircraft landing precision was compromised and the inspiration behind a spy-themed room in Dubai. Physics expert Mithuna Yoganathan adds a scientific twist, exploring the implications of colorful artillery markers from historical battles. The trio also discusses unique church pew designs that accommodate different denominations, ensuring a blend of humor and insight throughout!
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Where Remotes Usually Turn Up
- Logitech's 2011 survey claimed 49% of lost TV remotes are found in the couch, with odd places like fridges and bathrooms also reported.
- The survey is useful trivia but likely unreliable as rigorous science, reflecting PR-driven consumer polling.
Autopilot Precision Caused Runway Wear
- Early autopilot precision concentrated landings at the same touchdown point, causing uneven runway wear at busy airports.
- Airports asked Boeing to reduce autopilot landing tolerances so touchdown points varied and runway wear spread out.
SoftSoap Bought Up Pump Supply
- SoftSoap launched liquid hand soap in 1980 but couldn't legally protect the formula, so they cornered bottle-pump supply instead.
- Minnetonka ordered 100 million plastic hand pumps, blocking competitors from producing pump-bottled soap for about a year.
