Jenny Draper, a sharp-witted comedian, joins creative thinker David Bennett and concept explorer Annie Rauwerda for a delightful conversation. They dive into quirky historical anecdotes, from medieval laws to the amusing mishaps at a Kuwaiti fish shop. The trio also shares laughs over identity mix-ups at the London Marathon and imaginative workplace distractions, debating the absurdities of crafting chaos amidst productivity. Their clever banter blends humor with fascinating insights, making for an entertaining exchange!
Mint Mobile's reverse auction strategy engages customers directly in pricing, fostering community and addressing economic challenges amid inflation.
Annie Rauwerda's anecdote about early Wikipedia highlights the collaborative nature of knowledge preservation, showcasing the timelessness of certain historical subjects.
Deep dives
Mint Mobile's Unique Approach to Pricing
Mint Mobile has introduced an innovative marketing strategy by hosting a reverse auction to decrease prices amid rising inflation. The concept revolves around engaging customers directly, allowing them to bid against each other to secure lower rates for Mint Mobile's unlimited premium wireless service. This approach not only aims to attract new customers but also stands out in a market where consumers are increasingly concerned about affordability. By involving customers in the pricing process, Mint Mobile creates a sense of community while effectively addressing economic challenges.
Interesting Discoveries from Wikipedia
Annie Rowider shares a fascinating anecdote about early Wikipedia practices, revealing how it utilized the public domain Encyclopedia Britannica to develop its content. She highlights that certain entries have remained largely unchanged since their inception in 1911, reflecting the enduring nature of historical subjects. This indicates that while Wikipedia continually evolves, certain topics possess a timeless quality, rendering them less susceptible to modification. Such discoveries shine a light on the platform's collaborative nature, showcasing how knowledge is compiled and preserved through community contributions.
The Historical Significance of Lady Mary Wortley Montagu
Jay Draper discusses the pioneering contributions of Lady Mary Wortley Montagu in introducing smallpox inoculation in Britain. Despite facing obstacles in her education due to her aristocratic background, her inquisitiveness led her to champion medical advancements. A notable anecdote involves her learning to carve meat, a skill deemed essential for her upbringing, which reflects the gender roles of her time. Through her efforts, Montagu played a crucial role in changing perceptions about inoculation and contributed significantly to public health in the 18th century.
Neon as Nevada's Official State Element
Nevada has designated neon as its official state element, a move that commemorates its famous neon signs, particularly those in Las Vegas. This decision, passed in 2019, recognizes the cultural significance of neon signage in the state's history and tourism. While some argue that modern LED technology has overshadowed traditional neon, landmarks such as the neon museum continue to celebrate the classic art form. This unique designation exemplifies how states can embrace elements that reflect their identity and heritage in creative ways.
Jenny Draper, David Bennett and Annie Rauwerda face questions about pyromaniac phrases, eulogised elements and anonymous athletes.
LATERAL is a comedy panel game podcast about weird questions with wonderful answers, hosted by Tom Scott. For business enquiries, contestant appearances or question submissions, visit https://lateralcast.com.