Gift-giving takes a literary twist as guests share tips for thoughtful presents. Uncover the quirky use of olive oil by athletes to stay warm during cold runs. Delight in the whimsical tale of Bella the Umbrella, exploring themes of adventure and creativity. Engage in a lively debate about the inclusivity of the phrase 'you guys' and discover humorous alternatives. Plus, get insider writing advice from renowned authors to spark your holiday creativity!

This week features comedian Jim Gaffigan, who shares insights on being the Pope's favorite funnyman. The panel dives into hilarious cultural quips, like drinkable mayonnaise and quirky holiday gifts. There's a playful quiz on absurd pharmaceutical side effects and a comedic reflection on bizarre airport incidents. The fun doesn't stop as they brainstorm the next big concept restaurant and explore the therapeutic joys of doodling. Laughter reigns as they tackle everything from lighthearted news quirks to imaginative dining ideas!

This week, Lyndon Barrois, an artist renowned for his miniature sculptures crafted from gum wrappers, shares his unique artistic journey. He dives into the creative process of transforming discarded materials into stunning art pieces, like detailed football player figures. The conversation also touches on humorous celebrity encounters and the significance of community support during Thanksgiving. With lively quizzes and anecdotes, the episode captures a blend of creativity, laughter, and tribute to public media.

Mike Post, the iconic composer behind the 'Law & Order' theme, joins the conversation, sharing insights into sound design and friendly auditory experiences. The hosts discuss humorous strategies for avoiding startling pedestrians while running, including whimsical ideas like light-up shoes with sound. Post reflects on the unexpected origins of his memorable compositions and their cultural impact, blending laughter with the importance of sound nuances. Listeners also engage in a playful language experiment centered on inclusivity, highlighting the joy of thoughtful communication.

A whimsical sleep center offers four-year escapes in pods, sparking laughs from the panel. Holiday quirks feature bizarre food traditions and amusing family dynamics. A startling travel tale reveals a man caught with exotic creatures. Guests share eccentric demands, including an opera singer's backstage needs. A humorous quiz showcases quirky questions, alongside an absurd court ruling on baldness. Limericks inspired by current events provoke playful banter, culminating in a lively competition filled with gags and unexpected insights.

Josh Gondelman, a comedian known for his stand-up special 'People Pleaser,' joins Governor Whitmer and other panelists for a lively discussion. They dive into the new Thanksgiving fashion dilemma, balancing style and comfort. The absurdity of political appointments and holiday-themed movie ideas gets some hilarious commentary. Gondelman shares anecdotes about his nickname 'Big Gretch' while engaging in humorous games about quirky news and audience etiquette. Their playful banter makes for an entertaining exploration of current events and festive traditions.

A humorous debate erupts over the pronunciation of 'pecan' between two roommates, showcasing how regional accents shape identity. Martha Stewart joins in to settle the debate, highlighting the nut's cultural significance. Meanwhile, a small Italian town grapples with three months of darkness until their mayor installs a giant mirror to reflect sunlight into their square. This innovative solution sparks hope and transforms their winter experience, demonstrating how creative thinking can brighten even the gloomiest situations.

Tara Dower, a record-breaking ultrarunner, shares her thrilling experience speed-hiking the Appalachian Trail. Alongside comedian Negin Farsad, CBS contributor Faith Salie, and actor Peter Grosz, they dive into hilarious discussions on politics, cultural quirks, and the challenges of modern parenting. Expect whimsical tales from an Albuquerque medium connecting with spirits and comical takes on bathroom etiquette. The mix of humor and insights keeps the conversation lively, culminating in fun quizzes and bizarre news highlights.

Brian Jordan Alvarez, creator and star of the Hulu sitcom "English Teacher," joins fellow comedic minds Brian Babylon, Luke Burbank, and Emmy Blotnick for a lively discussion. They delve into the whimsicality of slot machines dispensing cherries and share absurd anecdotes from chaotic work trips. The chat takes a humorous turn with bizarre political gaffes and the 'great cheese heist of 2024.' Expect laughter as they explore quirky trends like okra water and a design studio's indoor roller coaster, making for a delightful mix of comedy and creativity.

In this lively discussion, Broadway star Josh Gad, known for his roles in 'Frozen' and 'The Book of Mormon', offers hilarious insights on tackling those pesky earworms, particularly the infectious 'Gaston'. Meanwhile, Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg fields a whimsical question about custom time zones, blending humor with practicality. The conversation delves into the quirks of campaign mail, making light of election season while sharing amusing personal stories related to childhood favorites. It's a delightful mix of nostalgia and clever solutions!