In this episode, Bridget and Ryan travel through the history of money in front of a live audience of kids and families (for real!) to answer Sofia’s big question: What is the gold standard? Together, they explore this old money rule, how paper money became a thing, and why no countries in the world – not a single one – use gold to back their money anymore.
This episode was performed as part of WBUR’s Podcast Playdate festival for kids in Boston. It was one of the most fun experiences we’ve ever had on the show. We loved seeing so many of you in the audience, hearing your reactions in real time and getting to meet you in person.
Thank you to everyone who came out. We can’t wait to go back next year!If your family is interested in learning even more about today’s question, check out our website. We’ve got conversation starters and a tip sheet!Love the show? You can help make it happen. Donate what you can at marketplace.org/givemillion
In this episode, Bridget and Ryan travel through the history of money in front of a live audience of kids and families (for real!) to answer Sofia’s big question: What is the gold standard? Together, they explore this old money rule, how paper money became a thing, and why no countries in the world – not a single one – use gold to back their money anymore.
This episode was performed as part of WBUR’s Podcast Playdate festival for kids in Boston. It was one of the most fun experiences we’ve ever had on the show. We loved seeing so many of you in the audience, hearing your reactions in real time and getting to meet you in person.
Thank you to everyone who came out. We can’t wait to go back next year!
ICYMI 📺If you couldn’t make it in person, here’s the next best thing:
Help us solve a mystery 🔎
Bridget and Ryan holding two signs made by a fan
Marissa Cabrera
Whoever made these signs, made our day! ❤️ If these were yours, send us a note here so we can give you a Million Bazillion thank yous.
More moments from our live show ✨Gallery

Marissa Cabrera

Milena Fernsler / WBUR

Milena Fernsler / WBUR
After listening to the episode, try out these related conversation starters with your kids:
Why do you think people like gold so much?
What makes an American dollar so valuable?
If you had your own business, would you accept Ryan Bucks? Why or why not?
Bonus Not-So-Random question: If you were a pirate, where would you hide your gold?
What to listen to or watch next with your kiddo:
In case you missed the “Million Bazillion” episode that inspired Sophia’s gold standard question, “Why is there so much gold at Ft. Knox?,” listen here.
Want to know why Bridget stopped Ryan from singing during the show? Our episode on copyrights explains it all.
Check out the other kid podcasts that participated in WBUR’s 2026 Podcast Playdate festival.
Grownups, we’d love to hear from you. How has listening to “Million Bazillion” helped your family learn more about money and the economy? Send us a note using this online form. Thank you!
| # | Наименование новости | Тональность | Информативность | Дата публикации |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Why is there so much gold at Fort Knox? | 0 | 5.3 | 12-05-2026 |
| 2 | “Million Bazillion” Season 10 is almost here! | 0 | 7.47 | 07-04-2026 |
| 3 | What are checks? | 0 | 8.02 | 05-05-2026 |
| 4 | What is inflation? | 0 | 6.4 | 30-03-2026 |
| 5 | How do claw machines work? | 0 | 5.25 | 18-08-2026 |
| 6 | Why did the U.S. stop making pennies? | 0 | 5.78 | 16-06-2026 |
| 7 | How do athletes get paid? | 0 | 7.8 | 02-06-2026 |
| 8 | What’s the difference between capitalism, socialism, and communism? | 0 | 5.4 | 09-06-2026 |
| 9 | Introducing "The Midnight Rebellion": which climate path would you take? | 0 | 8.99 | 10-06-2026 |
| 10 | Where do game shows get their prize money? | 0 | 6.54 | 28-04-2026 |