A Problem Squared

Matt Parker, Bec Hill
undefined
11 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 45min

100 = Orchestral Seats and Calculator Beef

Celebrate a milestone with playful banter and reflections on a hundred episodes! Discover the least popular orchestral instrument and engage in a quirky critique of Apple's calculator update. Delve into the intricacies of game strategies and the fun dynamics of tea-making traditions. Enjoy a light-hearted exploration of cricket attractions and quirky tech frustrations, all sprinkled with insider stories from nerd culture. It's a delightful mix of humor and insightful discussions, perfect for curious minds!
undefined
Dec 9, 2024 • 52min

099 = Most Watched Films and Homonyms

Explore the quirks of the English language as the hosts search for the word with the most meanings. Dive into lighthearted discussions about holiday films, including the unexpected popularity of timeless classics. Discover the challenges of streaming trends and how they connect with personal experiences. The hosts also share amusing anecdotes from a charity gala, celebrating their podcasting journey with humor and nostalgia. Friendship dynamics and the role of humor in support add an entertaining layer to the conversation!
undefined
Nov 25, 2024 • 53min

098 = Something Blue and Diamond Birthdays Too

Dive into the whimsical world of wedding traditions as the hosts tackle 'something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue,' offering humorous gift ideas and cultural insights. They also explore the quirky concept of diamond birthdays, complete with comical calculations and cosmic wedding items. With anecdotes of domestic mishaps and their air mattress adventures, laughter is never far behind. Join in as they navigate the absurdity of life with lighthearted banter, puns, and a dash of nostalgia.
undefined
Nov 11, 2024 • 46min

097 = Number of Maps & Numbered Pads

Delve into the intriguing world of Ordnance Survey maps and their fascinating journey from military origins to public usefulness. Discover the hilarity of dream grudges that shape our relationships through dream memories. Laugh along as the hosts discuss quirky Australian attractions, like a giant tractor, and share their 'First Wives Club Club' adventures. Finally, unwrap the mystery of why zero precedes nine on phone keypads while exploring history with a comedic twist. It's a delightful mix of stories and insights!
undefined
Oct 29, 2024 • 48min

096 = Movie Pairs and Moving Flares

The hosts dive into the curious world of competing films with similar concepts and the playful rivalries that arise, like 'Ants' vs. 'A Bug's Life.' They unpack the intriguing surge of Northern Lights visibility in the UK, linking it to solar activity and modern technology. The concept of 'frenemy films' takes center stage, spotlighting how contrasting movies can captivate varied audiences. With a mix of humor and insight, they explore the creative challenges faced in podcasting and celebrate notable milestones.
undefined
Oct 15, 2024 • 43min

095 = Friday Fears and Disco Spheres

🍀 Does the 13th really fall more frequently on Friday?  💿  How do you make a giant disco ball wearable?    🍩 And we have some any other doughness.  If you want to find out more about the cardboard related event (called Number City!) Matt attended on Orkney Island, have a look at this link: https://oisf.org/fest-event/number-city/. Do send your problems and solutions to the website: www.aproblemsquared.com. If you’re on Patreon and have a creative Wizard offer to give Bec and Matt, please comment on the ‘Sup ‘Zards’ pinned post!  And if you like, leave us a review, pass the podcast onto a friend or give us a rating! Every little helps.  If you want even more from A Problem Squared, you can find us onTwitter,Instagram, and on Discord.
undefined
Sep 30, 2024 • 57min

094 = The First Podcasts and Votes Precast

Discover the quirky origins of podcasting, tracing its evolution from audio blogs to big names like 'Serial.' Learn how to truly lose an election in the U.S. amidst colorful discussions about voter representation and strategy. Enjoy humorous anecdotes from cycling escapades in Berlin and the delightful intersection of math and art. The hosts reflect on the charm of early podcasting days while weaving in their comedic takes on everyday experiences. The episode is a delightful mix of humor, history, and thought-provoking insights.
undefined
Sep 16, 2024 • 58min

093 = Game Solutions and Neil Distributions

Can tic-tac-toe ever be fun? The hosts dive into the complexities of solved games, exploring how strategies can change the gameplay experience. They also playfully discuss whimsical variations of the name 'Neil', creating amusing nicknames like 'Pocket Neil'. A humorous debate on bird anatomy and dog limbs adds to the charm, while personal stories from their Boulder trip provide a lighthearted backdrop. Expect clever insights alongside plenty of laughs!
undefined
Sep 2, 2024 • 49min

092 = Broken Hands and Alexander's Bands

Ever wondered how many colors are really in a rainbow? Dive into the whimsical world of light refraction and the beauty of nature. Discover the quirky process behind asteroid naming, including a hilarious personal nomination. Engage with philosophical musings on broken clocks and perception, blending humor with deep thoughts. Also, enjoy charming anecdotes from a show premiere and explore the delightful confusion of hospital navigation. This playful journey invites you to appreciate both science and absurdity in everyday life.
undefined
Aug 12, 2024 • 50min

091 = Optimal Darts and Smelling Sharks

Dr. Lauren Eve Simonitis, a sensory biologist specializing in shark senses, dives into fascinating discussions about the impressive olfactory skills of sharks. She explains how quickly they can detect blood in the water and debunks myths surrounding shark attacks. The conversation also shifts to the math and strategy behind optimal dartboard designs, exploring how layout affects gameplay. With playful humor and intriguing insights, listeners gain a unique perspective on both sharks and darts!

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app