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    Make Me Smart: 2024 Olympics edition

    enJuly 27, 2024
    How can you contribute to Marketplace using your old vehicle?
    What ongoing issues are associated with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft?
    What beverage did Risdall attempt to create during the podcast?
    What factors impacted the energy of the Paris Olympics event?
    How do gymnastics and team sports differ in their appeal?

    Podcast Summary

    • Boeing's Starliner spacecraft issuesBoeing's Starliner spacecraft experienced persistent helium leaks, delaying astronauts' return from the International Space Station and raising concerns about the space program

      Even if your old vehicle isn't running as well as it used to, you can still contribute to Marketplace by donating it. Proceeds from the sale will support the programs you enjoy. Meanwhile, during Economics on Tap, Kyle Risdall and Kimberly Adams discussed various headlines, including the ongoing issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. Despite successfully launching and docking with the International Space Station, the spacecraft has experienced persistent helium leaks, keeping the astronauts on board longer than expected. While they are not stranded, the situation does not reflect well on Boeing's space program. In other news, the team enjoyed their choice of beverages during the podcast, with Risdall attempting to create an Olympic torch-inspired cocktail. Despite some mishaps, they continued to engage with the audience and discuss the day's economics news.

    • Boeing Starliner incident, OlympicsDiscussion included frustration over Boeing Starliner fire and concern for taxpayer money, while celebrating Olympics for pushing human potential and showcasing tech advancements, with mental preparation and safety emphasized.

      The discussion revolved around two main topics: the Boeing Starliner incident and the Olympics. Regarding the Boeing Starliner, there was frustration over a reported fire during a test, with some participants in the chat expressing concern for taxpayer money and Boeing's reputation. The Olympics, on the other hand, was celebrated for pushing the limits of human potential and showcasing the balance between physical abilities and technological advancements. The human mind and mental preparation were also highlighted as crucial factors in athletic performance. The conversation also included safety tips and a reminder to prioritize safety first.

    • Determination to continueDespite challenges, the determination to continue a habit or pursue a goal is a powerful force, as shown in stories about swimming and pushing boundaries in sports and fashion.

      The love for training and the motivation to keep going, no matter the challenges, was a common theme in the discussed stories. Whether it was about swimming and dealing with the aftermath or pushing boundaries in sports and fashion, the determination to continue was a powerful force. In the first story, the speaker shared her reluctance to deal with the aftermath of swimming but acknowledged the importance of keeping the habit going. The second story highlighted how the Olympics have been a driving force for change in women's sports and fashion, with athletes like Suzanne Langeland pushing boundaries and challenging norms. History, as always, was shown to be fascinating and full of interesting stories that continue to shape our world.

    • Individual vs Team SportsGymnastics offers individual success, mental strength, and instant gratification, while team sports provide camaraderie, motivation, and representation at the Olympics.

      Both gymnastics and team sports, such as synchronized swimming and water polo, have their unique merits. Simone Biles, a gymnast, is admired for her individual success and mental strength, while team sports offer a sense of camaraderie and motivation. Instant gratification is another factor, as gymnastics events are typically shorter than team sports. However, the opening ceremonies of the Olympics are a source of inspiration for all athletes, providing a platform for representation and unity. Despite the lengthy ceremonies, the final moments, including the athlete's oath and the lighting of the cauldron, are particularly moving and motivating.

    • Olympics energyThe absence of a large crowd in Paris Olympics affected the overall excitement and experience, but unique performances and unexpected surprises kept viewers engaged.

      The opening ceremonies of the Olympics bring a unique energy and excitement that was missing during the Paris event held along the river instead of in a stadium. The absence of a critical mass of enthusiasm and crowd interaction impacted the overall experience. However, there were still notable performances and unexpected surprises, such as Snoop Dogg's Olympic commentary, which brought a fresh and entertaining perspective. Overall, the Olympics continue to showcase diverse talents and sports, with skateboarding and breakdancing being popular non-traditional options. The inclusion of various personalities and commentators adds to the excitement and accessibility of the event for viewers.

    • Olympics preferencesListeners prefer the Summer Olympics for their inclusivity and lower barrier to entry for various sports, while the hosts admire the Winter Olympics for their aesthetics and stunning sports like figure skating and skiing.

      The hosts had a lively discussion about the Olympics, expressing their preferences for both the Summer and Winter Olympics based on the aesthetics of the performances and the global participation. The Winter Olympics were admired for their beautiful landscapes and stunning sports like figure skating and skiing, while the Summer Olympics were appreciated for their inclusivity and lower barrier to entry for various sports. Additionally, the hosts shared some personal anecdotes, including the introduction of a new cat named Artex. The poll results showed that a majority of the audience preferred the Summer Olympics, and the hosts encouraged listeners to share their Olympics-themed cocktail recipes. They also announced a summer book club for the podcast "This Is Uncomfortable" that would explore uncomfortable topics around money, class, and work.

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