What if I told you that fire led to glass, glass led to lenses, and lenses opened up entire worlds through microscopes and telescopes? Join me as I sit down with Dylan Thuras, co-founder of Atlas Obscura, and Jennifer Swanson, author of 50+ STEM books for kids, to explore their incredible new guide to the world's most fascinating inventions.
We dive deep into how innovation really works - not isolated "eureka moments" by lone geniuses, but interconnected discoveries building on each other across centuries. From ancient caves in South Africa to glass bridges in China, from accidental discoveries to the ongoing electrical revolution, this conversation will change how you see the world around you.
Whether you're a curious parent, an aspiring inventor, or someone who believes the world should be one amazing ride of discovery, this episode is packed with wonder, wisdom, and that infectious enthusiasm that makes learning feel like an adventure.