April 26, 1986, Ukrainian SSR. Plant workers and firefighters put their lives on the line to control a catastrophic 1986 explosion at a Soviet nuclear power plant. Peter Sagal and Craig Mazin discuss these events and more behind the series premiere of Chernobyl. They talk about what drew Mazin to this story, and dig into when and why he deviated from what really happened.The Chernobyl Podcast is produced by HBO in conjunction with Pineapple Street Media. Original music by Kaan Erbay.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"The Chernobyl Podcast" is the official podcast of the miniseries Chernobyl, from HBO and Sky. Join host Peter Sagal (NPR’s “Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!”) and series creator, writer and executive producer Craig Mazin as they discuss the true stories that shaped the scenes, themes and characters after each episode airs. The Chernobyl Podcast is available wherever you listen to podcasts, and you can stream it on HBO NOW and HBO GO starting Monday, May 6 at 10 PM."The Chernobyl Podcast" is produced by HBO in conjunction with Pineapple Street Media. Original music by Kaan Erbay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, Peter Sagal, a prominent public radio figure, joins the fun! The gang dives into the whimsical world of mascot races, featuring lively sausage competitors and hilarious commentary. They explore a creative approach to youth crime reduction using classical music at Finnish beaches. Cheerleaders also steal the spotlight with their clever solutions during high school games, weaving in cultural anecdotes and playful banter. Expect laughs and unexpected insights about the quirky traditions that unite us all!

Ben Wikler, Chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, discusses the anti-democratic onslaught in Wisconsin. Alice Wetterlund looks to the stars for more civil societies. Peter Sagal and T. J. Jagodowski debate theatre etiquette. Comedian Felonious Munk looks back at a summer of fails. Plus, fire gets torched in the rant wheel.

Have you ever wanted to become a listener contestant on Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me? Host Peter Sagal and producers Miles Doornbos and Sofie Hernandez-Simeonidis discuss how they select which callers make it to the air.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy