Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
The Sounds of
The biggest hits of the year — Top 10 Pop & Country chart toppers
HEADLINES ON July 31, 2008
Full News Archive
- Headline: Cauliflower Ear: A Fighter's Distinctive Badge. Impact: The rise of mixed martial arts led to a surge in gym memberships, spurring a global fitness craze. Somewhere, an ambitious entrepreneur invented ear protection that ironically just looks like a trendy accessory, making millions off of fighters' misfortunes.. Fact: Cauliflower ear isn't just a badge of honor; it’s also a great conversation starter at parties. Nothing says ‘I’m tough’ quite like a squishy ear!.
- Headline: Brazil Emerges as Global Economic Power. Impact: Brazil's moment in the spotlight inspired a wave of samba-themed global businesses. Little did they know, this would eventually lead to an absurd number of online dance tutorials flooding the internet.. Fact: Brazil's economy is so strong that even their coffee beans are lifting weights. Seriously, have you seen the size of a Brazilian coffee cup?.
- Headline: Yankees Trade for Iván Rodríguez. Impact: This trade became the catalyst for countless baseball fan debates, leading to the invention of the 'Yankees Fan's Guide to Understanding Trades' – a bestseller among confused spectators.. Fact: Trading Farnsworth for a Hall of Famer is like trading a rusty bicycle for a Lamborghini. Just saying; sometimes you don’t know how good you have it until it's gone!.
- Headline: An Olympian Is Smacked by Burden. Impact: Malaythong's journey inspired a generation of athletes to grapple with their identities, leading to a rise in support groups for those who feel lost between their childhood dreams and adult responsibilities.. Fact: Bob Malaythong’s story is a testament to the classic tale of 'chasing your dreams,' except his dreams come with shuttlecocks and an existential crisis..
Wall Street Time Machine
NFLX
Netflix
Netflix - If you invested $1,000 in 2008, it would be worth $249,715 today (249.7x return)