But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids

Join Paralympian Emelia Perry, skier Andrew Weibrecht, and bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor as they share their thrilling Olympic experiences. Emelia talks about her journey to the paratriathlon in Paris, revealing the emotional and physical challenges she faced. Andrew dives into the balance between Olympic glory and everyday life, while Elana reflects on the significance of medals, not just as awards, but as symbols of hard work. Together, they inspire young athletes to chase their dreams and embrace the joy of competition!

Fashion historian and writer, Amber Butchart, discusses the evolution of clothing, cultural influences, historical transitions from dresses to pants for boys, the history and purpose of underwear, and the intersection of clothing with culture and self-expression. Kids are encouraged to submit questions for future episodes.

Join pizza expert Frank Pinello, known for Best Pizza in Williamsburg, and Scott Wiener, creator of Scott's Pizza Tours, as they dive into the delicious world of pizza. Discover how pizza dough is made and learn about the fascinating role of gluten and yeast. Explore the history behind New York style pizza and its roots in Italian immigration. Find out about global pizza variations and the culinary art behind crafting the perfect pie. Get ready to have all your pizza questions answered!

Fernando Alferez from the University of Florida's Research Center discusses citrus fruits: why they have peels, seed protection, sourness of lemons and limes, seedless orange reproduction, year-round availability, citrus varieties, and the origin of the word 'orange'

In many cultures, eating insects is normal and even delicious! With growing global populations, insects might become a key source of protein. The podcast highlights surprising culinary uses of bugs, like seasoned cicadas and cricket-infused dishes. Listeners learn about the benefits of insects for health and sustainability. Plus, there's a fun culinary twist – incorporating these critters into familiar meals encourages adventurous tasting. It's a playful invitation to rethink our food choices!

Trillions of cicadas emerge every 17 years, creating a fascinating natural spectacle! Discover how these insects survive underground for over a decade by feeding on tree juice. Learn why their collective emergence helps them evade predators. Listen in as experts explain the impact of cicadas on local bird populations and the surprising culinary potential of these protein-packed insects. Explore the unique metamorphosis of cicadas and the roles their distinctive sounds play in mating.

Anthropologist Hugh Raffles and astronomer John O'Meara discuss where the sky ends and the concept of distinguishing between sky and space. They explore the interactions between air and space, the multitude of sky inhabitants like insects, and the invisible world of air molecules. The podcast challenges conventional perspectives on the border between sky and space with insightful reflections and scientific analysis.

Explore the misunderstood world of cockroaches and learn about their crucial roles in the environment. Dive into the diverse behaviors of insects like termites, praying mantises, and dragonflies. Discover the fascinating communication methods and unique characteristics of these insects. Unravel the mysteries of insect brains, memory capabilities, waste excretion, and light attraction. Appreciate the importance of insects in ecosystems and the need to preserve their roles on Earth.

Discover the world of crocodiles and alligators with researcher Venetia Briggs-Gonzalez as she answers questions about their scales, cold-blooded nature, chomping techniques, sharp teeth, and green coloration. Learn about the differences between alligators and crocodiles, their unique adaptations, and the importance of preserving native wildlife amidst invasive species threats.

Company artists Derek Brockington and Lindsey Donnell from Dance Theatre of Harlem answer questions about the origins of ballet, making ballet shoes, and the blend of athleticism and artistry in dance. They discuss the physical demands and emotional rewards of being a dancer, as well as the self-expression and inclusivity in dance.