

A Problem Squared
Matt Parker, Bec Hill
Matt Parker and Bec Hill present: A Problem Squared. A podcast dedicated to solving problems of all kinds, such as, "What should I listen to right now?". A Podcast Squared. First one's free. You're welcome.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 3, 2024 • 40min
086 = Emoji Editions and Birthday Billions
Print-artist Paul Catherall discusses the 'Folded Hands' emoji debate and gift ideas for celebrating a billion seconds. The hosts explore the history of emojis, cultural interpretations, and the challenge of giving a unique billion-themed present. They also share funny anecdotes about wooden log cakes and playful banter about dice guessing games.

May 21, 2024 • 52min
085 = Coin Collections and Pin Selections
The podcast discusses the challenge of collecting all commemorative €2 coins, creative ways to display enamel pins, and the strategies for completing a coin collection. They also share anecdotes about Muppet characters, international travel mishaps, and playful interactions with Patreon supporters.

May 6, 2024 • 1h 2min
084 = Indicators and In Da Cake-ers
The podcast explores the origins of birthday cake and the science behind car indicator synchronization. They discuss creative cake ideas for a woodland-themed party and share listener responses about dryer lint analysis. The hosts banter about problem-solving methods and tease upcoming topics.

Apr 22, 2024 • 46min
083 = Sunbeams and Dog Dreams
Expert on animal consciousness, David Pena Guzman, discusses the next solar eclipse, animal dreams, and the Any Other Business briefcase. Topics include the best place to see the solar eclipse, whether animals dream, and the complexities of studying animal consciousness. The hosts also share personal cycling challenges, travel adventures, and a secretive Disney club.

Apr 8, 2024 • 25min
An Emergency Broadcast to Solve an Emergency Problem.
Topics in this bonus podcast episode include financial prospects of having backward knees, playful banter about liquor and a wizard revelation, absurdity of retractable extra arms, and ethical dilemmas surrounding flying and birds.

Mar 25, 2024 • 56min
082 = What Is Lint and Zero Hints
The podcast explores the fascinating world of lint, delving into its nature, risks, and recycling options. They also discuss the concept of starting from zero in various scenarios and share humorous anecdotes from their time as teachers. Additionally, they touch on cost-effective laundry drying methods, collaboration with a print artist, and engaging banter with listeners.

Mar 11, 2024 • 55min
081 = Pi Prize and Square Stairs
Exploring Pi's repetitive patterns, designing symmetrical stairs, and upcoming book releases are just a few highlights in this intriguing podcast episode!

Feb 26, 2024 • 47min
080 = Naming Clichés and Squaring Birthdays
The podcast discusses naming children and turning ages squared into birthday celebrations. They explore unique naming trends and share ideas for square birthday bashes. The hosts also touch on challenges with problem posing and international work opportunities, with playful banter on name mispronunciations and odd/even numbers.

Feb 12, 2024 • 44min
079 = Driving Clockwise and Evolving Dragonflies
Is it faster to drive around Australia in an anticlockwise direction on the inside lane? What were dragonflies called before there were dragons? Another installment of Things Matt Needs Help With. The podcast has hit 2 million and they want ideas to celebrate.

Jan 29, 2024 • 50min
078 = Spinal Taps and Star Maps
Exploring adventures in LA, meeting Spinal Tap, and filming on 35mm. Calculating distances to visit stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame alphabetically. Analyzing street names and distances in cities. Playful discussions on star patterns and metadata challenges. Humorous post-credits chat about creative names and gratitude.