

Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!
NPR
NPR's weekly news quiz hosted by Peter Sagal. Have a laugh and test your knowledge with today's funniest comedians and a celebrity guest.Hate free content? Try a subscription to Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!+. Your subscription supports public radio and unlocks fun bonus episodes along with sponsor-free listening. Learn more at https://plus.npr.org/waitwait
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 16, 2025 • 21min
We ask Peter about the guest who's most surprised him, plus other listener questions
Peter Sagal answers quirky listener questions in a lively AMA session. He reveals he'd listen to 'Wheels on the Bus' eternally and shares amusing confessions about surprising guests like RZA. Peter reflects on the show's evolution, his abandoned hobbies, and his preference for running in silence—though he sometimes sneaks in a podcast. He fantasizes about casting Stanley Tucci or Jason Alexander in a movie about himself and recounts his unexpected connection to 'Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights'. Plus, he champions harissa as his favorite condiment.

24 snips
Dec 13, 2025 • 49min
WWDTM: Lucy Dacus
Special guest Lucy Dacus joins a lively panel to discuss a range of amusing topics. They delve into Netflix's surprising acquisition of Warner Bros and its potential effects on the entertainment landscape. The conversation takes a quirky turn with Latvia's rental 'husbands' amid a man shortage. Lucy also participates in a fun quiz about child geniuses, showcasing her quick wit. The panel wraps up with a rapid-fire news quiz, predictions about future corporate mergers, and engaging listener challenges that bring laughter to the audience.

Dec 10, 2025 • 28min
HTDE: One-Liners and Free Throws
This week, David Hu, a mechanical engineering professor from Georgia Tech, delves into whether crowd blowing could impact a basketball's free-throw trajectory. He tackles the physics behind air jet dissipation and explores lung capacity limits. Surprisingly, Hu reveals that while distant fans can’t make a difference, close-range coughs or sneezes might just alter a shot's timing enough to impact the game. The conversation blends humor with science, providing a fresh look at a beloved sport.

24 snips
Dec 6, 2025 • 49min
WWDTM: Andy Richter
Join comedian and actor Andy Richter, known for his wit on late-night TV, as he dives into his unexpected journey on Dancing with the Stars. He shares hilarious behind-the-scenes moments and how TikTok became part of his dance promotion strategy. The discussion also touches on the quirky world of courtroom chaos, leading to amusing trivia about Gene Kelly that Richter nails. With witty banter and lively panel insights, this entertaining segment offers a delightful mix of humor and pop culture.

29 snips
Nov 29, 2025 • 47min
WWDTM: Paul Giamatti, Laufey, and more!
This week features Paul Giamatti, an accomplished actor known for his diverse roles in films like Sideways and the series Billions. He shares insights about navigating typecasting and his early days in theater. Giamatti joins in a fun quiz about Tupperware, mixing humor with fascinating anecdotes. Also, Laufey discusses her unique sound and her memorable duet with Barbra Streisand, while James Gunn reflects on his filmmaking journey and the nuances of portraying Superman. The episode is packed with laughter and intriguing stories!

Nov 26, 2025 • 20min
HTDE: Carsickness And Traffic Jams
Kevin Bacon, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in Apollo 13 and Footloose, shares his thrilling experience filming in zero gravity, including anti-nausea tips from his time on the Vomit Comet. Meanwhile, Grammy-winning saxophonist Kenny G offers a melodious remedy for motion sickness, performing a delightful sax solo as part of his advice. They also touch on the humorous side of aging and its effects on nausea, alongside a survivor's witty tales from the longest traffic jam, detailing unique survival tactics with snack vendors and games.

13 snips
Nov 22, 2025 • 48min
WWDTM: Niki Russ Federman and Josh Russ Tupper
Get ready for a hilarious take on current events from sports to pasta tariffs! The panel jokes about LeBron’s incredible career and explores the quirky world of raccoon domestication. Delve into the ancient origins of kissing with some fascinating research, and enjoy a light-hearted trivia game featuring Houdini stunts. Plus, hear the history of an iconic appetizing shop from Niki Russ Federman and Josh Russ Tupper while competing in rapid-fire news challenges for some extra laughs!

72 snips
Nov 15, 2025 • 47min
WWDTM: Tiffany Haddish
Comedian and actor Tiffany Haddish brings her infectious energy to the discussion, sharing quirky stories from her diverse early jobs, including her unique experience as an energy producer for events. She hilariously recounts her bat mitzvah planning and her love for microorganisms, stemming from her first big purchase—a microscope. The show features games and lively banter with panelists Brian Babylon, Paula Poundstone, and Roxanne Roberts, alongside humorous takes on the latest unusual news.

5 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 19min
HTDE: Broadway Musicals And Best In Show
Join Anne Margret, the iconic actress and singer from Bye Bye Birdie, as she reveals the quirks behind her unique song pronunciation. Broadway performer Jordan Litz shares his astonishing experience of running the New York City Marathon followed by two back-to-back shows, detailing the physical challenges he faced. Listeners also get entertaining tips on chest shaving courtesy of dog groomer Crystal Murray, blending human and canine grooming techniques. It's a delightful mix of Broadway tales and unexpectedly relevant grooming advice!

25 snips
Nov 8, 2025 • 48min
WWDTM: Roy Choi
This lively discussion kicks off in Orange County with chef Roy Choi revealing his journey from food truck pioneer to culinary icon. The panel dives into the surprising addition of junk food at Whole Foods and chats about the quirky humanoid robot, Neo. Roy shares hilarious anecdotes about getting fired and transforming his setback into the creation of Kogi Tacos. He reminisces about the nostalgic role of American cheese in Korean-American homes and gives insights into chef portrayals in media. The fun continues with games and predictions about trendy food shifts.


