cover of episode HTDE: Yes We Pecan, with Martha Stewart

HTDE: Yes We Pecan, with Martha Stewart

2024/11/13
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Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!

Key Insights

Why is the pronunciation of 'pecan' a point of contention among Texans?

The state nut of Texas is the pecan, and some Texans are adamant about the correct pronunciation being 'pecan' rather than 'pecan,' leading to disagreements among residents.

How does Martha Stewart pronounce 'pecan'?

Martha Stewart pronounces 'pecan' as 'pecan,' which she acknowledges is not very Southern but is her preferred pronunciation.

What is the Ojibwe pronunciation of 'pecan'?

In the Ojibwe language, 'pecan' is pronounced 'bagan,' which is considered the most historically correct pronunciation.

Why did the mayor of Viganella, Italy, decide to create a 'fake sun'?

The town of Viganella was in the shadow of the Alps for three months each year, receiving no sunlight. Mayor Pierfranco Midali created a giant mirror on a mountain to reflect sunlight onto the town square during these dark months.

What was the reaction of the townspeople when the mirror first reflected sunlight onto Viganella?

Initially, many townspeople were skeptical and thought the idea was crazy. However, when the mirror successfully reflected sunlight onto the town square, it was considered an amazing and unbelievable achievement.

What is the purpose of the 'You Guys Fast' initiative on the podcast?

The hosts aim to stop using the phrase 'you guys' in their communication to be more inclusive and respectful, encouraging listeners to join them in this effort.

Chapters

The hosts explore the correct pronunciation of 'pecan' with help from Martha Stewart and Dr. Michael McGeesey-Sullivan, an Ojibwe linguist.
  • Martha Stewart pronounces 'pecan' as 'pecan'.
  • Dr. Sullivan suggests 'bagan' as the most historically correct pronunciation.
  • Language variation and acceptance of different pronunciations are discussed.

Shownotes Transcript

Two roommates disagree about how to pronounce "pecan," so Mike and Ian call up Martha Stewart–and others–to help. Plus, an Italian town in the shadow of the Alps spent three months of the year without sunlight, until Mayor Pierfranco Midali decided to make his own sun.You can email your burning questions to [email protected]). How To Do Everything won't live in this feed forever. If you like what you hear, scoot on over to their very own feed and give them a follow.Both How To Do Everything and Wait, Wait...Don't Tell Me! are available without sponsor messages for supporters of Wait Wait Don't Tell Me+, who also get bonus episodes of Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me! featuring exclusive games, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Sign up and support NPR at plus.npr.org).How To Do Everything* is hosted by Mike Danforth and Ian Chillag. It is produced by Heena Srivastava. Technical direction from Lorna White and Robert Neuhaus.*Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)