SMN: Things That America Invented (But Other Countries Do Better)
Nov 15, 2023
auto_awesome
The podcast discusses how other countries excel at American inventions, such as convenience stores in Japan, Dollar General's threat to local grocery stores, America's missed opportunity in solar energy, the rise and fall of bidets, gun violence in Iceland vs the United States, and the pervasive mindset hindering progress.
Japan revolutionized the concept of convenience stores by offering fresh foods and prioritizing staff training, prompting American store owners to consider adopting this model.
While the US was an early leader in solar panel technology, other countries like Japan, France, and the Netherlands have surpassed the US in solar energy production and innovation, showcasing the need for the US to catch up in adopting cleaner energy alternatives.
Deep dives
Other countries improving American inventions: Convenience stores
Convenience stores were first introduced in the US in 1927, but Japan took the concept to the next level. By 1984, there were 2,000 7-Eleven stores in Japan, offering not just canned goods but also fresh foods like sashimi and rice balls. The Japanese stores also prioritized staff training and service quality. With over 50,000 Konbenes operating in Japan today, offering event tickets, Wi-Fi, and a wide range of products, American chefs and store owners are now looking to bring this Japanese business model back to the US.
Other countries improving American inventions: Solar panels
While the US pioneered solar panel technology, we fell behind in solar production. In the 1970s, President Jimmy Carter supported renewable energy, but subsequent administrations undid many of those efforts. While the US relies on China for critical solar components, Japan became a leader in solar energy with heated toilet seats, electronic features, and fresh food. European countries like France and the Netherlands also invest in solar energy, while the US lags behind in adopting cleaner energy alternatives.
Other countries improving American inventions: Toilet paper
Toilet paper was first commercially produced in the US in 1891, but bidets gained popularity in other countries. Countries like France, Japan, and Iceland embraced bidets, which offer a cleaner, more efficient, and environmentally friendly alternative to toilet paper. While bidet adoption is low in the US, it's worth noting that American toilet paper consumption is high, contributing to deforestation and environmental concerns.
Other countries improving American inventions: Democracy
Although America was not the inventor of democracy, it often claims to be a model for other countries. However, other democracies have surpassed the US in terms of representation, functionality, and adaptability. European countries have implemented proportional representation, reduced minority rule, and taken steps to limit gridlock. Countries like Iceland and Finland have been pioneers in gender and racial equality in their governments, while the US struggles with political gridlock and restrictive constitutional norms.
If you want to take ownership of your health, it starts with AG1. Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D3K2 AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase. Go to https://drinkAG1.com/morenews.
Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at https://shopify.com/morenews (all lowercase) to take your retail business to the next level today.
Take care of yourself from the bottom up this holiday season. Visit https://hellotushy.com/morenews and use promo code MORENEWS for 10% off your first order. Don’t miss out on their Spend & Get event going on now through November 18, 2023.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode