How We Made Your Mother

In this episode of How We Made Your Mother, Josh Radnor and Craig Thomas revisit one of the most iconic episodes of How I Met Your Mother: Season 2, Episode 9, “Slap Bet,” with special guest Cobie Smulders. The conversation dives deep into the origin and impact of Robin Sparkles, from the wild writers’ room pitch to the massive, risky production of the full “Let’s Go to the Mall” music video—shot on an extra day, with choreography, wigs, dancers, and a full pop song that went on to live far beyond the episode itself. Cobie shares candid memories of recording the song (green apples, whiskey, nerves, and all), learning the choreography, and how revealing this secret pop-star past fundamentally unlocked a lighter, sillier, more intimate side of Robin Scherbatsky. Josh and Craig reflect on how the episode introduced not just Robin Sparkles, but also the slap bet, the slap bet commissioner, and a storytelling confidence that helped define the series’ future. The episode also features deeply moving listener letters, including one read by Cobie, underscoring how HIMYM has become a source of comfort, philosophy, nostalgia, and emotional connection for fans—proving that even the funniest episodes are ultimately about vulnerability, love, and letting yourself be truly known. Watch the full VIDEO of “Let’s Go to the Mall” CONNECT WITH THE SHOW: Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages) Instagram READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK: Subscribe HERE. CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE! Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED. SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH: Click HERE to learn more and donate today. FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES: Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPod Follow on TikTok AND MORE: Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on Spotify Craig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing) Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into the creative chaos behind an unforgettable road-trip episode that took the gang out of their comfort zone. Discover the emotional journey of Lily and Marshall's elopement and how late-night rewrites shaped the plot. Enjoy nostalgic tales from the set, including Ted’s hilarious distractions and Barney's clever gambling gags. The discussion reveals insights on character development, the pressure of tight production schedules, and the show’s unique blend of humor and heartfelt moments. Plus, don’t miss a cameo from guest star Kate Micucci reflecting on her experience!

In this lively conversation, Josh Radnor, famed for his role as Ted Mosby on a beloved sitcom and a multifaceted creator, reminisces with Jesse Tyler Ferguson. They dive into the transformative era of TV, discussing their evolving connections to their iconic roles. Josh shares insights into his theatrical aspirations, the Midwest modesty that shaped him, and a specific wish list for his career. The chat is a delightful blend of personal stories and industry anecdotes that reveals the heart behind the characters we adore.

Veteran television writer Greg Malins, known for his work on Friends and How I Met Your Mother, joins the discussion to dive deep into the iconic 'Swarley' episode. He shares the origin of the famous misname and how a recycled joke from Friends made its way into HIMYM. The trio analyzes the balance between humor and emotional depth in the Marshall and Lily reunion, the creative process behind Robin Sparkles, and why the show's wordplay resonates timelessly. Greg's insights offer a heartfelt look at sitcom storytelling.

Bryan Cranston, acclaimed for his roles in Malcolm in the Middle and Breaking Bad, joins the hosts to dive into his portrayal of Hammond Druthers. He shares how a missed Malcolm season opened doors to new roles and the pivotal X-Files episode that led to his casting in Breaking Bad. The conversation covers the intersection of talent and luck, the importance of well-written material, and acting's hidden intricacies. Cranston offers advice on confidence and craft while reflecting on his acting lineage and upcoming stage work.

Celebrate Thanksgiving with laughter and heartfelt stories! The hosts dive into Lily's comedic struggles with Marshall's giant family and explore Ted, Robin, and Barney's quirky adventures. They highlight Alyson Hannigan's standout performance and the visual humor of Lily feeling out of place. Insights on family dynamics and marriage add depth, alongside amusing takes on cultural food quirks. A touching listener story from Australia adds a poignant touch, reminding us how the show resonates with personal experiences and the essence of family.

Joe Manganiello, an actor renowned for his roles in film and television, shares his memorable experience guest-starring as Brad on the show. He discusses his 14-minute audition that won him the part and the 'redonk' catchphrase that fans adore. The conversation dives into the chemistry between his character and Jason Segel, revealing how vulnerability added depth to their comedic moments. Joe also reflects on what could have been if Brad had become a series regular, while the hosts explore the episode's themes of companionship and loneliness.

Josh Radnor and Craig Thomas welcome Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey of Office Ladies for an “extra-extra-special” crossover episode that celebrates the shared DNA between The Office and How I Met Your Mother. The four trade stories about auditioning, early career struggles, and the naïve confidence it took to chase a dream to Los Angeles. Jenna and Angela recall the pressure of remaking the British Office and the moment they knew Diversity Day proved their show’s originality; Josh and Craig compare that to creating HIMYM in the shadow of Friends. They discuss manifesting success, the comfort of ensemble storytelling, nostalgia for network-era TV, and what it means to have made “comfort shows” that helped fans through hard times. The episode closes with a listener letter from Chile about how HIMYM quite literally changed one fan’s life—and a toast to everyone who’s ever found solace, laughter, and a sense of home in these two beloved worlds. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW: Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages) Instagram FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES: Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPod Follow on TikTok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK: Subscribe HERE. CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE! Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED. SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH: Click HERE to learn more and donate today. AND MORE: Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on Spotify Craig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing) Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of How We Made Your Mother, Josh Radnor and Craig Thomas revisit Season 2, Episode 4, “Ted Mosby: Architect,” which aired October 9, 2006. They reflect on the show’s use of music—like the Decemberists’ “Here I Dreamt I Was an Architect”—and how songs became part of Ted’s emotional language. They discuss the episode’s mystery structure, Robin and Ted’s first fight, and the episode’s emotional ending, where Ted shares his architectural dream with Robin. The two dive deep into the craft of storytelling, the symbolism of architecture, and the “HIMYM” balance between comedy and emotional truth. They also talk about Field of Dreams, music supervision, and fan letters that show how the series became a source of comfort and inspiration for viewers. General Questions we Sort of Answer: How did Spokane get chosen for the skyscraper site? Was the Decemberists’ song chosen just because it had “architect” in the title, or for its lyrics? Where do Carter and Craig’s real lives end and the fictional HIMYM characters begin? You can check out Evryman retreats HERE. If you don’t know the amazing work of the great Al Hirschfeld, take a LOOK. Listen to Ezra Klein’s interview with Brian Eno on APPLE PODCASTS or SPOTIFY. And yes… you can check out Josh’s Tedscapes on Spotify. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW: Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages) Instagram READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK: Subscribe HERE. CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE! Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED. SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH: Click HERE to learn more and donate today. FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES: Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPod Follow on TikTok AND MORE: Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on Spotify Craig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing) Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Season two, episode three of How We Made Your Mother takes on “Brunch,” the HIMYM episode that juggles family chaos, secrets, and spicy breakfast rolls. Josh and Craig reminisce about casting Michael Gross—yes, the dad from Family Ties—as Ted’s father, and how surreal that was for Josh, who grew up watching him on TV in Columbus, Ohio. They unpack the episode’s Pulp Fiction-style structure, Ted’s awkward family brunch with his divorced parents, Robin, and Barney, and the hilarious side plots of Marshall and Lily’s lingering chemistry (and calves). The hosts also dive into themes of communication, generational love languages, and repeating family patterns, praising Steven Lloyd’s dark humor and Christine Rose’s comedic subtlety. Barney’s needy attempts to outshine Robin, Ted’s questionable shirt choices, and the debut of the “83%” statistic all get airtime, before a touching fan letter from Mexico reflects how HIMYM continues to offer hope and comfort to viewers around the world. Check out Friend of the Devil by Stephen Lloyd Read Oldster on Substack CONNECT WITH THE SHOW: Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages) Instagram READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK: Subscribe HERE. CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE! Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED. SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH: Click HERE to learn more and donate today. FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES: Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPod Follow on TikTok AND MORE: Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on Spotify Craig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing) Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices