Everything Old is New

What happens when old things get a second life? In this episode of What If…, Mike Tobias explores creative Nebraska innovators who are transforming discarded materials, forgotten spaces, and vintage craftsmanship into something entirely new. First, meet the creator behind Pat on Tap, a fleet of vintage vehicles turned rolling party attractions that prove old trucks still know how to have a good time. Then travel to South Sioux City, where engineers and researchers are experimenting with roads made from recycled plastic bags — a surprising idea that could help reduce waste and reshape infrastructure. Finally, visit a guitar maker who transforms reclaimed wood into handcrafted instruments with stories and sounds all their own. The episode also highlights RECYCLE Omaha at Clover 24, a former potato chip factory reborn as a creative hub for artists and entrepreneurs. Featuring recycled fashion, sculptures made from found materials, and artwork crafted from everyday waste, the exhibit celebrates how imagination can turn trash into inspiration. From repurposed roads to handmade guitars and artistic reinvention, this episode of What If… celebrates Nebraska creativity, sustainability, and the power of seeing possibility where others see leftovers. #WhatIfNebraska #NebraskaInnovation #Recycling #Sustainability #Upcycling #NebraskaArtists #ReclaimedWood #CreativeReuse #EnvironmentalInnovation © 2026 Nebraska Public Media Foundation. All rights reserved. Learn more about the innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship across Nebraska by visiting https://NebraskaPublicMedia.org/WhatIf This video, “Everything Old is New” is a part of the 7th season of “What If…Nebraska”. FOLLOW US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/NebraskaPublicMedia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaPublicMedia X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/NebPublicMedia Instagram: https://instagram.com/NebraskaPublicMedia