This whimsical but fast-paced series is jam-packed with exciting tidbits and fascinating facts that uncover the truths and origins behind familiar items, sayings, and habits. You’ll be fascinated to learn how they've all come about.

Grade Level: All

Approximately 25-minute episodes.

Program descriptions:

Episode 1: Coca Cola, Slinky, Frisbee

Behind the scenes of how Coca-Cola got its start, how a US president helped create the teddy bear, the origin of the Slinky and the Wiffle Ball, and how a pie tin inspired the creation of the Frisbee.

Episode 2: Etch-A-Sketch, Moon Landing, Bikini

Before computer drawing programs, there was a toy that if you mastered its two circular white knobs you could have a picture perfect sketch. We'll explain how the Etch-A-Sketch drew onto the scene. And what did Neil Armstrong really say when he stepped on the moon, the "aahh" answer will surprise you! Also, where did the explosive name bikini come from? Plus, Mistletoe, Ice Cream Cone, Cedar, and Sneezing.

Episode 3: Popsicle, Barber Poles, Microwave

On a hot summer's day, nothing cools you down like a frozen fruity Popsicle! You'll learn how an 11-year old boy created this sweet icy treat! And, have you ever noticed those colored spinning poles outside the barbershop? You'll be in stitches when you learn how they got their start! Plus, find out how a melting chocolate bar gave way to the invention of the microwave! Tidbits about the Pound Key, Brain Freeze, and more.

Episode 4: Kitty Litter, Bullet Proof Vest, Neon Lights

It was the purrrfect idea for making our furry friends more pleasant around the house! You'll learn how kitty litter clawed its way into our homes. And you'll learn how a garment made out of special woven fibers can stop a bullet, plus, why is walking under a ladder bad luck? And finally, we'll "cut to the chase" and explain the history behind this common phrase!

Episode 5: Eiffel Tower, America's First Pizzeria, Haagen Dazs

It's the city of love: Paris, France. The world over knows its most famous structure, the Eiffel Tower! But did you know Parisians originally wanted to tear it down? We'll explain why and how it was saved! Then, you'll visit America's first pizzeria! And how the gourmet ice cream Haagen Dazs got its exotic start in Bronx New York!

Episode 6: Sweet'N Low, Riding Shotgun, Potato Chip

It's been sweetening America for almost 40 years! Now, find out the truth behind how Sweet'N Low actually got its name! And why do we yell shotgun when getting into a car with friends? Then, is it really bad luck to open an umbrella in the house? And, learn the salty truth on how the potato chip was invented out of anger!

Episode 7: Thermos, Pez Candy, Mark Twain

Learn the secrets behind thermos' amazing technology! And they were the sweet candy pellets we loved as a kid, but did you know that Pez was created to help people stop smoking? And find out how a steamboat inspired Samuel Langhorne Clemens to change his name to Mark Twain.

Episode 8: Grand Central Terminal, 120 Volts, Nachos

It's one of the world's most famous train stations: Grand Central Terminal. We'll take you on a trip to reveal its many fascinating secrets! And while we're on the subject of travel, we'll tell you where you can see a plane flying over a car, driving over a train rolling over a boat all in the SAME place. Plus, what inspired the invention of the corkscrew? And if they are cleaned without water, how do clothes get spotless when they are dry cleaned?

Episode 9: Domino's Pizza, Fortune Cookies, Gadgets

It's cheesy and and eaten all over the world! You'll learn how Dominick's Pizza became Domino's Pizza. And we all know how going to a circus wouldn't be complete without fluffy sweet cotton candy. We'll explain how this feathery goodness spun to life! And all the spy action heroes use them, but where did the term "gadget" really come from?

Episode 10: Monopoly, Area Codes, Tuxedo

Take a trip to the Jersey Shore and learn how one of its famous boardwalks helped to inspire the iconic board game of Monopoly. And how did a donkey and an elephant become associated with politics? Plus, what's the difference between top grain leather and full grain leather? And did you know a tuxedo originally was a way to dress down?

Episode 11: Zamboni Ice Resurfacing Machine, Pistachio Nuts, Stars

If you have ever gone to a hockey game, or gone ice-skating, there is one revolutionary machine that helps keep the fun and action going: the Zamboni® ice resurfacing machine. You'll learn how and why it was invented! And ever notice some pistachio nuts are red in color? Find out why! Plus, do stars really twinkle?

Episode 12: Swiss Army Knife, Cup of Joe, Hamburger

If you ever go camping, there is one thing you do not want to leave home without: the Swiss Army knife. We'll explain how it evolved into the most famous knife in the world and how the company's name came about. And where did the term "cup of Joe" come from as well as the word java? And we all love a juicy hamburger, so where did these chopped meat patties come from?

Episode 13: Almond Milk, Scapegoat, Buffalo Wings

Learn how almond nuts get transformed into milk! Can eating poppy seeds make you fail a drug test? And why are movie trailers shown at the beginning of the film? Also, learn how detergents make your clothes seem brighter and whiter.