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Weird History Food
Season 3
Episode 73

Everything That Went Wrong With Papa Johns Pizza

September 15, 2024

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Weird History Food - S3 - E73

In the world of 'Big Pizza', today we focus on one Papa Johns. Armed with a dream, John Schnatter sold his beloved '71 Chevy Camaro, bought some pizza making equipment, and ended up serving many of us watching this video. But that road from obscurity to ubiquity hasn't been without controversies! Jon us as we trace the progress and setbacks of the one and only, Papa John's Pizza - maybe you have ordered it? Is it not as good as it used to be, as the Big Papa John Schnatter now claims?

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Weird History Food: Season 3 - 81 Episode s

3x23 - Why Sprite Beat 7UP In The Clear Cola Wars
March 21, 2024
All throughout the 80s and 90s, one thing was clear - there was a battle on, and that battle raged between 7Up and Sprite. Join us as we walk through the past, seeing how these two titans came to be, and recounting the various marketing battles that were had! Which is your favorite? 7Up, or, Sprite?
3x24 - Where In The World Did Crumbl Cookies Come From?
March 24, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we are looking at the phenomenon known as Crumble - maybe you've liked someon's post of a Crumbl cookie on Scuial Media? Maybe uoi were lucky enough to live near one of their brick and Mortar stores from the very beginning!COme with us as we look into how two college aged cousins had an idea that literally went viral, creating the sensation we all know today!
3x25 - How Bad Breath Became Its Own Industry
March 28, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we are examining how one of the world's BEST breath Fresheners got it start. Bad Breath has plagued everyone since the dawn of time, and various cultures had their own ways of dealing with it.... Until one day, and Italian company created the small powerhouse breath freshener we all know today!
3x26 - Why Powerade Got Shut Out By Gatorade
March 31, 2024
In the battle of heavy hitters Gatorade and Powerade, the winner (by numbers) is clear. Today at Weird History Food, we are looking back at the genesis of he behemoth known as Gatorade, and how it forged a path for its more modern competitor, Powerade. How did Gatorade come to be, and what of the battle of thirst quenchers? Join us as we get down into the dirty history of how all has played out!
3x27 - How Lunchables Were Made By And For The 90s
April 4, 2024
Today on Weird History Food We Are Delving Deep into the coolest lunch kit ever - Lunchables! They were ubiquitous during lunchtime gin the 90s, all the way to today, boasting a huge variety of combinations. Perhaps you remember having one at lunchtime in the 90s, or even more recently, and take a trip with us to found out how this phenomenon came to be!
3x28 - Every Style Of Burrito We Could Find Across The United States
April 7, 2024
Today On Weird History we re diving deep into that most incredible food invention, the burrito - travel around with us as we go into the history and origins of some of the most favorite types of burritos we have all chowed down on at one point or another. Whether late night after the bar, 1st thing in the AM or at high noon - burritos are great at ay time day or night! ....Which is YOUR favorite, and where can WE find it?
3x29 - Death Of The Mall Food Court
April 11, 2024
Ahh... malls... Depicted in 80s films, they were a huge pasttime for MANY people, young and old, since the 1960s.... One major draw was the incredible addition of food courts - Who even Dreamed up this concept? Maybe you have many memories of a bygone era spending weekends hanging with friends at the mall, or, maybe your only impression is watching explorers on youtube traverse mall carcasses.Whatever your experience, join us today as we examine how these all came to be, and what exactly happened to them!
3x30 - The Delightfully Orange History Of Sunny Delight
April 14, 2024
Sunny Delight - that ndiscribable orange bottle of sunshine that we all remember was chosen over 'some purple stuff' in a fridge. The 90s were Sunny Delights era to shine for sure, but, it was create many moons before. Come take a trip to a time when this concoction was fisrst developed, and ride the wave with us on the pah to the modern Sunny D, which now comes in many colors, and even with alcohol!
3x31 - The Hot And Cool History Of Dairy Queen
April 18, 2024
Today We at Weird History Food dive deep ino to the beginnings of Dairy Queen - home of the one and only Blizzard! Maybe you have one near you? Maybe you live in a 'Dairy Queen Desert' only to dream you had one nearby. Whatever the case, come with us as we explore how a certain concoction took hold in Southern California and never let go!
3x32 - How Jack in the Box Bounced Back From A Deadly Scandal
April 21, 2024
Oh, the ups and downs of being Jack in the Box... Through the years, Jack has been part of the birth of a business, death of an ego, and rebirth into the modern mascot we are all so familiar with! Join us as we delve into the life and times of 'The other' Clown, Mr. Jack I. Box, moving through the history of Jack in the Box!
3x33 - How Much Money Is Costco Losing On Its Hot Dogs?
April 25, 2024
Coscto has been doing everyone a solid for nearly 40 years - if you have been to the Cosco Food Court in he last decades, you have noticed a remarkable feat - he cos of the Costco hotdog has NEVER budged! How are they able to do this? What sort of 'anti inflation' magic is happening here? ...and how did this all begin? Come ake a trip to understand how all came to be..
3x34 - Why Do Pop Tarts Come In Twos?
April 28, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we delve deep into the tart world of Pop Tarts! Whether they are the first thing you scarf down in the AM, or the last thing you eat late a night, these warm toasty wonders have been a staple favorite for decades! Exactly who made them? Where did the name come from? How did they evolve into the wonders we know today? ...and, finally, why ARE there two in each package? Grab 'em if you got 'em, and enjoy this video with us - just don't burn the roof of your mouth!
3x35 - The Real History Behind Outback Steakhouse
May 2, 2024
Today on Weird History we are taking you on a mental walkabout to the Outback Steakhouse! How exactly did this kitschy 'Australian' dining experience come about, and did it seriously originate in Australia, or, somewhere entirely different? ...and what is with that bloomin' onion, anyway? Maybe you have eaten there once, twice, or more - if you hav, tell us in the comments what is YOUR favorite outback steakhouse offering!
3x36 - Every Super Sized Lie in Super Size Me
May 5, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we are examining the 2004 breakout film 'Supersize Me' by Morgan Spurlock. For a 'documentary', this expose took the country by storm, even being nominated for an Oscar. The film rooted itself deep into the public consciousness for a number of years, until skeptics began to try and replicate Spurlock's claims. Ever since its release, more and people have begun to question its claims, and various legal woes have further dispelled the connection between the physical effects Spurlock experienced and his diet of McDonald's food. Maybe you have seen the film, or maybe you know of these controversies that have erupted in the years since its release!
3x37 - How An Incredibly Bizarre Restaurant Became A Franchise: Medieval Times
May 9, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we dive deep into the feasting and pageantry of the one and only 'Medieval Times' dinner theater! The Chivalrous History Of Medieval Times spans all the way back to an event held in the 1770s, which at that time harkened back to the glorious Medieval times of England... Over time, new American interest in European medieval games took hold, eventually spawning what we now know as Medieval Times Restaurant. Maybe you've been? Maybe you've always wanted to go? Whatever the case, come take a trip in time with us and see how this way of knight life came to be.
3x38 - Why Heart Attack Grill Wants You To Die While Eating There
May 12, 2024
Today on Weird History food, we check out 'The Heart Attack Grill'. Many years ago, one man had an idea for the ultimate restaurant that had food literally 'to die for'. As an ex 'Jenny Craig' dealer, Dr. Jon Basso decided that he wanted to do something different.. What transpired was the only dining establishment where the owner HIMSELF will tell you - the food served should be avoided at all costs! ...But, does anyone listen? And who dares attempt eating the Octuple bypass burger? Come with us as we explore the history of the Heart Attack Grill!!
3x39 - How Shasta Gets Away With Imitating Coke
May 16, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we are going into the murky origins of Shasta. Some (or many) might call it an imposter of sorts, but, how well do you really KNOW Shasta soft drinks? Sure, many of its flavors tasted EERILY similar to the classics, but, they sure didn't start out that way... Take a journey with us to the humble bubbling water origins in Siskiyou County, California - in the shadow of Mount Shasta.. Tracing the patchy history of how Shasta 'growth hacked' its way into what we know today!
3x40 - What's Really In A Barf Jelly Belly?
May 19, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we are going back in time to the iconic Jelly Bean company's beginnings... Oh, what a storied road Jelly Belly has taken to get to our modern age - from candy dishes at the White House itself to partnering up with the Harry Potter franchise, how exactly did it become the candy we all know and love today? How did it develop flavors that became a sort of 'tasty roulette' in the form of a board game?
3x41 - The REAL Reason Bagels And Donuts Have Holes
May 23, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we are looking ino a long standing question - as old as bagels and donuts themselves! ...Exactly why IS i that Bagels and Donuts have holes? Who decided that, and what is the reason for it? Many theories and ideas abund, but, join us as we uncover the abesolute tasty truth of both!
3x42 - The Checkered History Of Pizza Hut
May 26, 2024
Today n Weird History Food, we are going deep into the past of hat restaurant we all know with the big red roof.. and that great personal pan Pizza... Stroll into the past with us as we look at how two brothers took a risk with heir mom's money, and it paid off... From the people ht fought hard during h 90s Pizza Wars, and gave us all the 'Big Foot Pizza', find out why nobody outpizzas the hut!
3x43 - How Wonka Became A REAL Candy Company
May 30, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we are delving into the history of Wonka Candy Company! Which came first? Willy Wonka or the Real Life Wonka Candy Company? The film or the chocolate bar? SO many questions! Join us through fascinating tale of life imitating art, a major food company decided to take the reigns on the candy, tethering itself to what amounted to a box office failure. Throughout time, and twists of fate, Wonka Candy endured and gave us some of our favorites!
3x44 - Every Style Of Ice Cream We Could Find Across The United States
June 2, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we travel the globe to check out all the many ic cream styles that were spawned from various places! Ice cream is that incredible invention that can almost NOT go wrong. Do you like your Italian Gelato? Your Thai I-Tim-Pad? Or how about midwestern frozen custard (with chunks of cookies or candy thrown in)? This shout out of history is for all you Ice Cream lovers out there! Let us know what YOUR favorite is! You scream, I scream We ALL Scream for Ice Cream!
3x45 - The Surprising Reason Why McDonalds Sells Fish
June 6, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we are examining that fast food phenomenon that involves a patty made of fish. Once considered a risky endeavor, the Filet-o-Fish became so sought after on Fridays, particularly during the season of Lent, that all competing fast food joints jumped on the boat and created their own version of the Filet--o-Fish sandwich! Join us us as we explore how this fish sandwich found its way onto fast food menus across the board!
3x46 - How Civilization Was Created By Bread
June 9, 2024
Bread is the stuff of life, and i has a LOONG and storied role in the story of humans. Today on Weird History Food, we are going back in time to he beginnings of bread! Form ancient Mesopotamia all the way up to a most favorite 2020 Pandemic Era pasttime. Do you bake bread? What is your favorite kind of bread to eat? Let us know in the comments!
3x47 - What Is A Sandwich?
June 13, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we are examining the definition of a sandwich. Is it an age old question, or an internet generated spark for the battle royale of keyboard warriors the world over? In the interest of convenience, people have always been looking to wrap up ingredients for easier eating. Was it the Earl of Sandwich that gave the sandwich its the name? ...And what of 'so called' hot dogs, wraps, and even those odd open faced 'sandwiches'? Well, go ahead, tell us what you think, and why!
3x48 - Who Was The First Person To Get Drunk Off A Margarita?
June 16, 2024
Today on Weird History we delve deep into that favorite concoction, the margarita! The source of many of our BEST nights, and possibly worst 'mornings after'! But, who was the first person to get drunk off a margarita? And who may have made that first mixer elixir? Join us as we go back in time, down Mexico way, to explore the invention of frozen margaritas, and who my have been he first to create, and imbibe, this glorious concoction. And while you're at it, let us know in the comments which is YOUR favorite kind of margarita to get tipsy on! Cheers!
3x49 - Every McDonald’s Menu Item Since 1955
June 20, 2024
Today on Weird History Food wqe are delving deep into the McDonald's menu. Evern deeper than Morgan Spurlock in his investigative film 'Super Size Me!'. We've seen how he meticulously ate everything on the McMenu, but, how exactly did that menu evolve through the years? How did their most famous sandwiches and burgers come to be, and who started it all? Join us as we trace the beginnings of the Big Bac, the Filet-o-fish, and the very humble menu of offerings that McDonald's gave to the world at the very sart!
3x50 - Every Style of Taco We Could Find
June 23, 2024
Today on Weird History food, we are talking about something so good it even has a day of the week dedicated to it. Today we are talkin' tacos!! Hard tacos, soft tacos, and all manner of recipes!! Come with us as we dive deep into where the first tacos were likely made, and trace the history of hw this beloved dish conquered the world!! We all may have a favorite kind... tells us what yours is, and where if can be found! Long Live Taco Tuesdays!!
3x51 - Why Is Five Guys So Expensive?
June 27, 2024
Burger Joints have popped up over the years, and everyone has heir favorite. Today on Weird History Food, we are going into the history of '5 Guys'. Exactly Who ARE those five guys, and most importantly, why are they charging so much for their food? What goes into a% Guys burger that i the reason for their cost? Sure, just about everything keeps going up, but, in the midst of all, it seems 5 Guys stands out. Today we find out why.
3x52 - The Meaty History Of Korean BBQ
June 30, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we are diving into Korean BBQ! Samgyeopsal? Bulgogi? Fusion? Where in time did these all originate? Join us as we go way way back to the Goguryeo Period in Korean history, all the way to Los Angeles in 2008 at the creation of the ubiquitous Kogi Korean-Mexican Fusion! What is your favorite kind of Korean BBQ, and most importantly, WHERE is it? ...Asking for a friend..
3x53 - What REALLY Happened To The Rainforest Cafe?
July 4, 2024
The Rainforest Cafe... a fever dream the mind of restauranteur Stephen Schussler, has since become a wildly exotic chain of restaurants. Come with us as we delve deep into the past, to the very beginnings, all the way to what we know of the Rainforest Cafe today. Though it's wild style is sure to leave an impression on the mind, the footprint of this themed chain restaurant is shrinking, not unlike the real rain forest! Have you ever been to a Rainforest Cafe? What did you eat?
3x54 - Every Style Of Nachos We Could Find
July 7, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we are talking about a real crowd pleaser - nachos!! These are a favorite appetizer, and even as a loaded main course! But, who invented nachos, and exactly how did they take over this great nation of ours? ...And most importantly, as we travel around the country talking various types of nachos, answer this: which is YOUR favorite? Let us know!
3x55 - Every Haunted Restaurants In America
July 11, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we are diving into a bit of the extraordinary - we all have our favorite haunts, but hav you ever dined at an ACTUAL haunted restaurant? Join us, as we explore the paranormal happenings at a number of famous old restaurants throughout America! Stepping back in time, we go deep into why various restaurants are believed to have become haunted, and who these disembodied spirits once were! While many of these restaurants have food that is to die for, the unseen patrons of these places get the most attention!
3x56 - Why Did We All Start Drinking White Claw?
July 14, 2024
The past few years have been one strange trip - over the many years, there have been many attempts to create a beverage that isn't beer, but also, quite different than straight hard alcohol... In the recent pas, what was created was an oncoming craze for 'Hard Seltzer' - Beer companies like Budweiser, Coors, as well as bran new companies such as White Claw and other specifically 'hard seltzer' companies rocketed into the public consciousness, right in time for a pandemic to hit. Come with us as we race how this ubiquitous craze caught on, and rocketed to fame.
3x57 - The Deliciously Greasy History Of Panda Express
July 21, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we are going to talk about that ubiquitous Panda Express - they are EVERYWHERE! ...But which was the first one ever? We will take you way back to a germ of an idea between a father and son hat grew into what we know today - the company that actually invented orange chicken!
3x58 - The Rise And Rapid Fall Of Ghost Kitchens
July 25, 2024
The rise (and fall) of ghost kitchens is somewhat of a spooky tale in and of itself. Built on a shaky foundation, ghost kitchens exploded in popularity, especially during lockdown. Basically, unidentifiable kitchens cooked food that delivery services brought to millions of doorsteps. But who were these so called 'Ghost Kitchens'? How were each of these 'ghost kitchen's rated for food prep safety? Questions like these went out the window as the pandemic took hold, as many people were all too happy to just have tasty food delivered when they couldn't leave their homes. They even put up with the 'wrong orders', smashed food, and inflated price tags. But when lockdown ended, the business model struggled to keep up with 'normal'. Even Youtubers such as MrBeast seem to be regretting getting into the 'Ghost Kitchen' game!
3x59 - Is IKEA Actually A Restaurant That Sells Furniture?
July 28, 2024
IKEA has saved many a student from a disastrously decorated dorm room. Known for its flat packed furniture, this behemoth brand has shipped countless pieces of furniture all over the world, with insanely complex assembly instructions. All of that is phenomenal, bu, have you ever tried there meatballs? Come with us as we delve into the somewhat checkered past of IKEA, and delve into their culinary offerings that often steal the show!
3x60 - All The Ways Restaurants TRICK You Into Staying
August 1, 2024
Restaurants have existed for many many centuries! Some might say there is an art to running a successful restaurant. Its a very fine tuned operation. Join us today as we delve deep into just how subtle (and NOT so subtle) restaurants can be when psychologically getting you to stick around a bit longer so hat more of hat hard earned cash can flow into their coffers! Sure, good food always brings a steady clientele, but, here are MANY tool employed that influence how you eat, what you ea, and how long you stay at a restaurant!
3x61 - Everything That’s Actually In A Hot Dog
August 4, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we are examining everything about Hot Dogs! Some will absolutely steer clear, some just cannot get enough (lookin' at you, Joey Chestnut!). With such a wide divide in the public mind, today we will explore the good, the bad, and the nasty that might just be in your hot dog. Oh, and its storied past as well!
3x62 - What Was The First Beverage We Drank After Water?
August 8, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we are examining something that may just make you thirsty... Today, we are examining drinks - Yes, the OG drink was plain old water, but, what did people start drinking after they got tired of just drinking water? Come with us as we examine the likely alternatives that evolved and people started drinking as time went on.
3x63 - The Death Of Chain Restaurants
August 11, 2024
For many many years, people have enjoyed he idea of taking a roadtrip and being able to stop along the way at their favorite restaurant. The consistency of brands such as Olive Garden, Applebee's, Cracker Barrel, McDonalds's etc., and yet, over time, and for all sorts of reasons, chain restaurants have started to shrink, or even outright vanish from the national landscape. Today, we examine why.
3x64 - Every Fried Fair Food We Could Find In America
August 15, 2024
Every Summer the season of county fairs rolls around! 'Fairs' have a long tradition spanning eons, apparently, but only in the recent years, the most decadent addition has come to the fair: Deep Fried Fair Foods! In our amazing day and age, fairs have taken on a different kind of freak factor - one of freaky culinary concoctions - deep fried candy, Deep Fried Beer, basically anything edible you can think of, just deep fried! Join us as we examine all of the tastiest, most caloric and absolutely deepest of fried foods you can find at the fair! Let us know in he comments what's a local favorite at YOUR county fair!
3x65 - What Happened To The Kool-Aid Man?
August 18, 2024
Oh Yeeah!!! Today on Weird history Food we are examining exactly how he Kool-Aid man came to be, and how he has evolved over the decades. Born out of the mind of a child, he iconic Kool-Aid man has caused more holes in walls than any of us can count, but he sure does bring a tasty concoction with him!
3x66 - The Death Of Fast Food Video Game Tie-Ins
August 22, 2024
Calling all video gaming fans! Today we are examining the history of the synergistic fusion of snack and fast food companies in video games! ...Did you ever play Donald Land? How about 'Chester Cheetah too Cool to Fool'?. These collaborations went on for decades, and continue to this day with eSports! Come with us as we look at how it all began!
3x67 - How The FroYo Wars Almost Put Frozen Yogurt Out Of Business
August 25, 2024
What could be possibly better than Ice Cream? FroYo! For a huge set of the population, FroYo made a big splash since it started being sold in the U.S. There was 'Everything Yogurt' which opened in 1976, then came TCBY and a host of many other purveyors of FroYo - we all have our favorite! Join us as we trace back how yogurt itself came to be, how the idea of 'frozen yogurt' was born, and how it exploded onto the scene!
3x68 - The Rich, Chocolatey History of Nesquik
August 29, 2024
Nestle may be a behemoth company, but, they sure brought us a tasty drink that 'quikly' became a favorite drink for generations of kids and adults alike! today on Weird History Food, we will delve into the origins of the OG chocolate drink (brought back to Europe from the Americas), and how Nestle took this concept and ran with it centuries later!
3x69 - The Biggest Beef In Competitive Eating: Chestnut vs. Kobayashi
September 1, 2024
In the world of 'Competitive eating', there can be ONLY one! ...or wait, is it two? Today n Weird History food we delve into the past of Competitive eating competitions, way back to the start of Pie eating contests... and within that framework, we have a look at two titans of the 'sport'. Come with us as we get into the rivalry and personal journey of both Joey Chestnut and Kobayashi. How they ach came to dominate the world of Competitive eating, and how they keep trying to snatch the #1 title from each other!
3x70 - The Incredible Rise And Disastrous Fall Of Fuddruckers
September 5, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we are talking Fuddruckers. Whether founded by a mysterious character named 'Dudley P. Fudpucker', or the more likely guy known as 'Phil Romano' (also founder of Roman's Macaroni Grill!), Fuddruckers was born in 1979, and has lived a storied history of growth, near death experience, and a rebirth - all the while making what they argued is 'The World's Best Burgers'. Have you ever eating at a Fuddruckerss? Where was it? And what burger did YOU order?
3x71 - The Most EXPENSIVE Grocery Store In America.
September 8, 2024
We are all feeling the insane cost of living these days, but, today on Weird History Food, we are delving deep into the extreme - billed as the grocery store that caters to Celebrities and Influencers, Erewhon sells goods at astronomical costs most people can only laugh at. With most locations in California, what exactly IS this store that puts even Whole Foods to shame? And exactly how did it get this way? Have YOU ever shopped in on? What were your thoughts, if so?
3x72 - What Happened To Barq’s Bite?
September 12, 2024
Today we delve into the history of root beer.... Specifically, the brand that Barq's! Well, until recently, claim some.... Barq's root beer has a storied history, and yet, the DRINK we all know as root beer was created long before. Come with us as we go deep into the history of Barq's Rot beer, and see how it managed as competitors began to brew...
3x73 - Everything That Went Wrong With Papa Johns Pizza
September 15, 2024
In the world of 'Big Pizza', today we focus on one Papa Johns. Armed with a dream, John Schnatter sold his beloved '71 Chevy Camaro, bought some pizza making equipment, and ended up serving many of us watching this video. But that road from obscurity to ubiquity hasn't been without controversies! Jon us as we trace the progress and setbacks of the one and only, Papa John's Pizza - maybe you have ordered it? Is it not as good as it used to be, as the Big Papa John Schnatter now claims?
3x74 - Why Isn't Sriracha As Hot As It Used to Be?
September 19, 2024
Even if you don't live anywhere near those fumes in Irwindale, California, is likely you have heard d Sriracha Sauce, and maybe even you are a serious connoisseur! This episode promises be hot! Join us as we go deep into the actual invention of Sriracha sauce, and see how it became the ubiquitous sauce we all know. Let us know if YOU use this liquid fire!
3x75 - Every Taco Bell Menu Item Since 1962
September 22, 2024
Yo quiero Taco Bell! Today on Weird History we are gonna make you hungry for a titan of tacos! We will go way deep into how the franchise got started by a one Mr. Bell. Starting way back in 1962, with Tacos, then tostadas, the menu just grew and grew over time... with the success of many additions to their menu, they started fusions and mashups of all sorts, many of which are still on the menu today! What is YOUR favorite food from Taco Bell? Le us know!
3x76 - How Pasta Was Invented Everywhere At Once
September 26, 2024
Today on Weird History food, we examine a most familiar food - PASTA!! Whether your first encounter was grandma's spaghetti, some spaghetti-o's from a can, or whatever the case may be, do you think you know pasta, really? Who invented it? What do records suggest? And exactly what is this magic made of?
3x77 - Why Does Chipotle Keep Making Us Sick?
September 29, 2024
Today on Weird History Food, we are delving deep into the History of Chipotle - perhaps you have been to one, and completely avoided getting sick! If so, congratulations! Join us as we examine this ubiquitous chain's humble beginnings in Denver, CO, its brief relationship with McDonald's and all the ups and downs in all the companies years in operation!
3x78 - The Surprisingly Interesting Science Behind Soda Packaging
October 3, 2024
Carbonated drinks and sodas, have been around much longer than any of us have been alive! When did the mainstay sodas we know and love start? And most importantly, how has our consumption of these drinks changed over the years? Come with us as we go deep into how soft drinks were first bottled and canned, how the industrialization of mass production brought us the bottle cap we all know, and how the cans and bottles themselves have evolved over time!
3x79 - Is There Actually Cheese In Cheez Whiz?
October 6, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we are looking at a truly remarkable culinary invention, Cheez Whiz!!! Perhaps you have some in your fridge right now! In the long and storied history of Cheese, this one is a wist NOBODY saw coming. What even IS this liquid gold? A Dip? A spread? a meal all on is own? Grab some if you got some and enjoy this telling of how it all began.
3x80 - The Spicy History Of Hot Sauce
October 10, 2024
Some like it mild, some like it hot, but, who DOESN'T like hot sauce? Whatever the brand, whatever the 'Scoville score', just about everyone is int putting a bit o' the hot stuff on their food. Join us as we take a look at what causes all the heat, hw the concept of H sauce even started, and all of the hottest ons you can find today!
3x81 - Death Of The Fast Food Play Place
October 13, 2024
Seeing Play Places at our 'go to' fast food stop has been a common experience for most all of us. Whether or not we actually climbed around in hm in the 70s, 80s, or up to the pandemic, we are all very familiar with the concept of them! today on Weird History Food, we look at how they began, how they evolved, and how they sort of fell out of favor (thanks 2020!). Let us know in the comments which camp YOU are in - whether you see them as germ petri dishes that might spread the latest bug, or as fun places to let the kiddos blow off steam while you eat a burger and fries!
3x82 - What Happened To The Taco Bell Chihuahua?
October 17, 2024
Fast food mascots come, fast food mascots go, but, of all the mascots, even though this little one IS gone, the vintage 90s commercials with this little chihuahua have been eared into our collective consciousness. Today on Weird History Food, we examine the unlikely hit that was the Taco Bell Chihuahua, tracing this unlikely marketing campaign as it became a pop culture phenomenon!
3x83 - Everything That's Actually In A Fast Food Hamburger
October 20, 2024
Burgers have been ben around long time, and many fast food burger joints tout the best meats in their burgers! But, what is a 100% 'all meat' patty, and what exactly goes into the production of the burger meat we consume? Today we trace the process of creating the meat that ends up between the buns in your favorite fast food burger!
3x84 - Why Is It So Hard To Open A Capri-Sun?
October 24, 2024
Capri Sun was a staple in all of our childhood school lunches! Though the shape of the drink was odd, and is was such a skill to get the straw in properly, kids across the globe loved this drink, and even to this day (even with the whole 'mold' issue they can have). Lets take a look at how this particular drink began, shall we?
3x85 - Why Did Fast Food Become So Expensive?
October 27, 2024
Today on Weird History Food we examine something that everyone is well aware of - the cost of even the cheapest options in the past has gone way way up! It wasn't all that long ago that Fast Food was THE cheapest dining option, but, over the years, that has changed. Today we look at the how great the price changes have been, and the possible reasons why!
3x86 - Why Sonic Is The Last Drive-In Standing
October 31, 2024
The Fast Food Industry exploded like a rocket after World War II. Among all of them, Sonic stands out. With a motto 'fast food at sonic speed', this particular brand had a unique twist from the start. More than anyone else, Sonic championed the days when customers could just roll up and fine dine on their dashboards. Though there have been tweaks over the years, that pleasure is still very much a part of what Sonic offers customers to this day! Join us as we delve into the history of Sonic!
3x87 - How Quiznos Got Toasted
November 3, 2024
Not so long ago, one sandwich shop launched a series of ad campaigns so catchy and downright strange, they’re probably still lodged in your brain to this day. That shop was Quiznos, and they rode that wave of bizarre humor to become one of the biggest sandwich chains in America. But as quickly as they rose to the top, the joint famous for its weird commercials and toasted sandwiches has faded away into obscurity. So, what the heck happened?
3x88 - Death Of The American Steakhouse
November 7, 2024
As you could probably guess from the name, a “steakhouse” is a restaurant that specializes in steak. Or… at least claims to. They weren’t invented in the US, but it was America that turned steakhouses into a big business; and then, into a somewhat smaller business. In other words… Today we’re going to take a look at the rise and fall of American steakhouses.
3x89 - Why Did Tony The Tiger Have To Get Hot?
November 10, 2024
Tony The Tiger has been around through all of our childhoods. Initially conceived as a child friendly mascot, he has gone through many transformations in his evolution. Today on Weird History Food, we examine a rather modern phenomenon that would have Kellogg's founder, John Harvey Kellogg, turning in his grave. You see, Tony The Tiger has become quite the Tiger in the Furry community! And now his hotness has become a viral sensation!
3x90 - Is There Any Grape In "Grape" Flavor?
November 14, 2024
Grape flavored drinks, gum, and other edible candies have been a favorite for many people. But, oddly enough, that designated flavor doesn't actually quite taste like grapes; we just associate the flavor with the fruit when it appears in junk food! Today on Weird History Food, we are going back through the history of when grape flavoring was invented, exactly how that flavor is created, and how it became the breakout flavor we all know and love today!
3x91 - Is Betty Crocker A Real Person?
November 17, 2024
We all know the name very well, and one thing is clear - WHOEVER this 'Betty Crocker" is, she is an amazing cook! But, is Betty even real? Or, was she just a figment of our collective imagination? Today on Weird History Food we are delving deep into who exactly was Betty Crocker, and how exactly this hybrid sensation became what we know today!
3x92 - This Restaurant WANTS You To Have A Terrible Time
November 21, 2024
There are all sorts of themed restaurants, and favorite chains that we frequent, but, in all of those, we are talking about one that TRULY stands out. Today on Weird History Food , we have a look at Dick's Last Resort. A very unlikely success story, we dive into this one from the very inception. Who knows? maybe you have had Dick's Big Meat Challenge, maybe Dick's Huge 12" Wiener, a little Dick Margarita, or any of the many offerings at Dick's. This is a place known for its surly waiters and waitresses, and sexual innuendos laid on thicker than the mayo!
3x93 - The Bubbly Rise And Shattering Fall Of Jones Soda
November 24, 2024
If we asked what you think of when we say the name “Jones,” you’d probably say something like James Earl, or Indiana. But if you were thirsty, you might think of “Jones Soda,” the craft soda that once seemed to be all the rage, and then… suddenly wasn’t. So what happened to those colorful little bottles? Today We go into the history of the Kraft soda Jones! Maybe you love drinking Jones soda? Maybe you've even made your own labels? Let us know!
3x94 - The Deadly Family Feud Behind Zankou Chicken
November 28, 2024
Today's Weird History Food offering completely re-defines the term 'family feud'. If you’ve ever been to Los Angeles, California, then you might have eaten at a popular chain of restaurants called Zankou Chicken. The family-owned business has been a local favorite for decades, but a shocking tragedy nearly closed it all down for good! If you have had their chicken and amazing garlic paste, which location did you go to?
3x95 - Every Wendy's Menu Item Since 1969
December 1, 2024
When Wendy’s opened its first location in the winter of ‘69, founder Dave Thomas was already a pro at serving high quality fast food. As a former owner and operator of KFCs in Ohio, Thomas decided to ditch the chickens for good old American beef. But with over fifty years of scrumptious square burgers and flavorsome Frosties, the Wendy’s menu has seen considerable changes. Let us know YOUR favorite item at Wendy's is!
3x96 - How Del Taco Tried And Failed To Crack Taco Bell
December 5, 2024
The Del Taco fast food chain has been a California mainstay for the better part of 60 years, building a fanbase that rivals that of much larger operations like Taco Bell. But what might be surprising to some taco "stans" is that Del Taco's history has always been entwined with Taco Bell's, and the two have been unspoken rivals in the fast food fiesta wars from the very beginning.
3x97 - How Chili’s Got Burned And Came Back
December 8, 2024
In the pantheon of casual dining experiences, few middle-class fancy eateries have experienced a trajectory like Chili's. From their rustic roots to an expansive nationwide chain, this southwestern sit-down has seen all the ups and downs of the industry. But where many casual dining chains have entered a modern age of decline, the big red pepper has somehow re-entered the building. So, how exactly did Chili’s get its groove back?
3x98 - Which Root Beer Is The Definitive Root Beer?
December 12, 2024
Root Beer is a sweetened carbonated beverage which, despite its name, has little to nothing to do with actual beer. Nonetheless, people throughout the world enjoy it so enthusiastically you could be forgiven for thinking it contains alcohol. And while there are dozens of different brands of the ol’ sarsaparilla, a handful of iconic sodas have been sitting at the top of the heap for the past century. But which one is the best?
3x99 - Is the Filet-O-Fish Actually Fish?
December 15, 2024
The Filet-O-Fish is one of the most famous items on the McDonald's menu. Before the advent of its fishy schtick, the fast-food giant only sold burgers, fries, milkshakes, and various drinks like coke, root beer, milk, and coffee. These classic items served the chain well for well over a decade. But as the franchise expanded, so did the needs of the fast-food-loving public, and the Filet-O-Fish caught our collective attention—hook, line, and sinker. But how much fish is actually in it? And is it even fish?
3x100 - The Red Hot Rise and Unfortunate Fall of Red Robin
December 19, 2024
If you’re a comic book fan, “Red Robin” is one of the superhero aliases used by Batman’s sidekick. But if you’re a hamburger fan, the name likely makes you think of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews and a bottomless basket of fries before the Boy Wonder. Despite some splashy successes, and some truly excellent boozy milkshakes, the once-mighty eatery has tumbled from the highest branch in recent years. So what happened?
3x101 - How Are Rotisserie Chickens So Cheap?
December 22, 2024
We’ve all indulged in those ready-made meals at the supermarket, even though they’re usually not the kindest to our wallets. But there is one supermarket staple that continues to satisfy both our hankerings and our bank accounts - the rotisserie chicken. These slow cooked supermarket saviors have been a favorite for frugal customers frantically seeking a scrumptious meal. But how are they so affordable? Is there some dark secret behind these tasty birds?
3x102 - Are Fast Food Restaurants Actually Giving Us LESS Food?
December 26, 2024
The fast food landscape is a vicious and ever-evolving competition full of cutthroat tactics to sell consumers the largest amounts of food at the cheapest price possible. That’s why we love it so much. But unfortunately, all good things must come to an end It seems those once-reliable guilty pleasures have started to skimp on their portions, leaving wounded customers wondering what went wrong. But did that Junior Chee really get more junior, or is it all in our heads?
3x103 - The Secrets Behind Every Secret Sauce
December 29, 2024
For decades now, pretty much every fast food place has unveiled a secret sauce that allegedly gives their food a unique zing their competitors could only dream of. And for just as long, people have been trying to find out what exactly is in them! Well, today we do our best to spill the sauce!

Weird History Food: All seasons

S1: 2022
40 Episode s
S2: 2023
94 Episode s
S3: 2024
103 Episode s
S4: 2025
5 Episode s

3x23 - Why Sprite Beat 7UP In The Clear Cola Wars

3x24 - Where In The World Did Crumbl Cookies Come From?

3x25 - How Bad Breath Became Its Own Industry

3x26 - Why Powerade Got Shut Out By Gatorade

3x27 - How Lunchables Were Made By And For The 90s

3x28 - Every Style Of Burrito We Could Find Across The United States

3x29 - Death Of The Mall Food Court

3x30 - The Delightfully Orange History Of Sunny Delight

3x31 - The Hot And Cool History Of Dairy Queen

3x32 - How Jack in the Box Bounced Back From A Deadly Scandal

3x33 - How Much Money Is Costco Losing On Its Hot Dogs?

3x34 - Why Do Pop Tarts Come In Twos?

3x35 - The Real History Behind Outback Steakhouse

3x36 - Every Super Sized Lie in Super Size Me

3x37 - How An Incredibly Bizarre Restaurant Became A Franchise: Medieval Times

3x38 - Why Heart Attack Grill Wants You To Die While Eating There

3x39 - How Shasta Gets Away With Imitating Coke

3x40 - What's Really In A Barf Jelly Belly?

3x41 - The REAL Reason Bagels And Donuts Have Holes

3x42 - The Checkered History Of Pizza Hut

3x43 - How Wonka Became A REAL Candy Company

3x44 - Every Style Of Ice Cream We Could Find Across The United States

3x45 - The Surprising Reason Why McDonalds Sells Fish

3x46 - How Civilization Was Created By Bread

3x47 - What Is A Sandwich?

3x48 - Who Was The First Person To Get Drunk Off A Margarita?

3x49 - Every McDonald’s Menu Item Since 1955

3x50 - Every Style of Taco We Could Find

3x51 - Why Is Five Guys So Expensive?

3x52 - The Meaty History Of Korean BBQ

3x53 - What REALLY Happened To The Rainforest Cafe?

3x54 - Every Style Of Nachos We Could Find

3x55 - Every Haunted Restaurants In America

3x56 - Why Did We All Start Drinking White Claw?

3x57 - The Deliciously Greasy History Of Panda Express

3x58 - The Rise And Rapid Fall Of Ghost Kitchens

3x59 - Is IKEA Actually A Restaurant That Sells Furniture?

3x60 - All The Ways Restaurants TRICK You Into Staying

3x61 - Everything That’s Actually In A Hot Dog

3x62 - What Was The First Beverage We Drank After Water?

3x63 - The Death Of Chain Restaurants

3x64 - Every Fried Fair Food We Could Find In America

3x65 - What Happened To The Kool-Aid Man?

3x66 - The Death Of Fast Food Video Game Tie-Ins

3x67 - How The FroYo Wars Almost Put Frozen Yogurt Out Of Business

3x68 - The Rich, Chocolatey History of Nesquik

3x69 - The Biggest Beef In Competitive Eating: Chestnut vs. Kobayashi

3x70 - The Incredible Rise And Disastrous Fall Of Fuddruckers

3x71 - The Most EXPENSIVE Grocery Store In America.

3x72 - What Happened To Barq’s Bite?

3x73 - Everything That Went Wrong With Papa Johns Pizza

3x74 - Why Isn't Sriracha As Hot As It Used to Be?

3x75 - Every Taco Bell Menu Item Since 1962

3x76 - How Pasta Was Invented Everywhere At Once

3x77 - Why Does Chipotle Keep Making Us Sick?

3x78 - The Surprisingly Interesting Science Behind Soda Packaging

3x79 - Is There Actually Cheese In Cheez Whiz?

3x80 - The Spicy History Of Hot Sauce

3x81 - Death Of The Fast Food Play Place

3x82 - What Happened To The Taco Bell Chihuahua?

3x83 - Everything That's Actually In A Fast Food Hamburger

3x84 - Why Is It So Hard To Open A Capri-Sun?

3x85 - Why Did Fast Food Become So Expensive?

3x86 - Why Sonic Is The Last Drive-In Standing

3x87 - How Quiznos Got Toasted

3x88 - Death Of The American Steakhouse

3x89 - Why Did Tony The Tiger Have To Get Hot?

3x90 - Is There Any Grape In "Grape" Flavor?

3x91 - Is Betty Crocker A Real Person?

3x92 - This Restaurant WANTS You To Have A Terrible Time

3x93 - The Bubbly Rise And Shattering Fall Of Jones Soda

3x94 - The Deadly Family Feud Behind Zankou Chicken

3x95 - Every Wendy's Menu Item Since 1969

3x96 - How Del Taco Tried And Failed To Crack Taco Bell

3x97 - How Chili’s Got Burned And Came Back

3x98 - Which Root Beer Is The Definitive Root Beer?

3x99 - Is the Filet-O-Fish Actually Fish?

3x100 - The Red Hot Rise and Unfortunate Fall of Red Robin

3x101 - How Are Rotisserie Chickens So Cheap?

3x102 - Are Fast Food Restaurants Actually Giving Us LESS Food?