The Short Stuff podcast episode discusses the life and inventions of William A. Mitchell, a food scientist with over 70 patents. Mitchell, born into a hardworking Minnesota farm family, notably invented Tang, quick-set Jell-O, Cool Whip, and laid the groundwork for Pop Rocks. The hosts, Josh and Chuck, share interesting facts about Mitchell's career, including his aversion to management roles and his dedication to food science. They also discuss the cultural impact and ingredients of his inventions, sharing personal anecdotes and addressing common misconceptions, such as the myth about Pop Rocks and soda causing stomach explosions. The episode concludes by highlighting Mitchell's positive personal life and the continuation of his legacy through his daughter, Cheryl Mitchell, also a food scientist.
