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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

Nov 27, 2024 • 23min
HTDE: The Friendliest Sound in the World, with Olympic medalist Molly Seidel
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.

34 snips
Nov 23, 2024 • 47min
WWDTM: Bridget Everett and Jeff Hiller
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.

5 snips
Nov 16, 2024 • 47min
WWDTM: Governor Whitmer
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.

5 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 16min
HTDE: Yes We Pecan, with Martha Stewart
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.

11 snips
Nov 9, 2024 • 48min
WWDTM: Tara Dower
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.

Nov 2, 2024 • 47min
WWDTM: Brian Jordan Alvarez
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.

Oct 30, 2024 • 22min
HTDE: Josh Gad defeats earworms, and we make a pitch to Pete Buttigieg
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!

6 snips
Oct 26, 2024 • 47min
WWDTM: Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe
Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe, sports icons and power couple, bring their competitive spirit to the table. They chat about their own podcast, revealing who really takes the crown for competitiveness. The duo humorously discusses their impressive medal collections and where they keep them. Comedians Helen Hong, Adam Burke, and Alonzo Bodden add to the fun with playful banter about quirky policies and absurd trends, ensuring laughs while exploring the world of sports and celebrity culture.

Oct 19, 2024 • 47min
WWDTM: Instant Nostalgia Edition
This week, Chapel Roan, a rising pop star known for her vibrant music, shares her journey from YouTube cover artist to success. Janet Yellen, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, brings humor and economic insights while revealing her Candy Crush obsession. Comedian David Alan Greer entertains with anecdotes from his illustrious career, and chef J. Kenji Lopez-Alt spices things up with culinary conversations that blend humor and trivia. The episode dances between nostalgia and witty explorations, highlighting the quirks of pop culture and personal stories.

Oct 16, 2024 • 23min
HTDE: Maury Povich and Sleeping Between the Pretties
Television icon Maury Povich joins the hosts to tackle tough conversations with humor and wisdom. He gives insights on handling difficult news while exploring an amusing marital debate about bed sheet positioning, featuring tales from a former royal butler. The discussion also touches on retirement planning, urging a focus on personal passions, and the importance of replacing household items like toothbrushes. With engaging banter and a splash of dental humor, they navigate practical advice wrapped in laughter.