

Judge John Hodgman
John Hodgman and Maximum Fun
John Hodgman's Today in the Past podcast is now The Judge John Hodgman Podcast. Have your pressing issues decided by Famous Minor Television Personality John Hodgman, Certified Judge. If you'd like John Hodgman to solve your pressing issue, simply email it, along with your phone number, to hodgman@maximumfun.org. THAT IS ALL.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 17, 2025 • 1h 17min
I Declare a Hisstrial
Kate wants to adopt another elderly snake to replace their deceased pet Ember, but Wes is hesitant to open his heart again to another senior snake adoption. What is the optimal leg to pet ratio? Is it easier to give birth to something with no bones? Who is the placenta lady - should we be scared of her? More importantly, who's right? Who's wrong?It’s the holidays! Get your JJHo merch at MaxFunStore.com! Right and wrong caps, Pure Justice Smell candle, and cozy gothcozyclothes! And a ticket to see us in January at SF Sketchfest makes a LOVELY gift! Sunday, January 18 at Marines’ Memorial Theatre, on sale now!We are on TikTok and YouTube! Follow us on both @judgejohnhodgmanpod! Follow us on Instagram @judgejohnhodgman!Thanks to reddit user u/haylstorm090 for naming this week’s case! To suggest a title for a future episode, keep an eye on the Maximum Fun subreddit at reddit.com/r/maximumfun!
Judge John Hodgman is member-supported! Join at $5 a month at maximumfun.org/join!

Dec 10, 2025 • 1h 10min
Exposition is Nine Tenths of Guffaw
Holly brings the case against her mother, Joelle. Joelle can’t tell a story about her day to day without cracking herself up. When she’s giggling, no one can understand what she’s saying. Joelle says talking to her daughters makes her so happy. She feels relaxed enough to let it all hang out, giggles and all. But Holly says STOP LAUGHING. She just wants to know what Joelle is talking about. Who’s right? Who’s wrong? It’s the holidays! Get your JJHo merch at MaxFunStore.com! Right and wrong caps, Pure Justice Smell candle, and cozy gothcozyclothes! And a ticket to see us in January at SF Sketchfest makes a LOVELY gift! Sunday, January 18 at Marines’ Memorial Theatre, on sale now!We are on TikTok and YouTube! Follow us on both @judgejohnhodgmanpod! Follow us on Instagram @judgejohnhodgman!Thanks to reddit user u/HarryElephante for naming this week’s case! To suggest a title for a future episode, keep an eye on the Maximum Fun subreddit at reddit.com/r/maximumfun!Please consider donating to Al Otro Lado. Al Otro Lado provides legal assistance and humanitarian aid to refugees, deportees, and other migrants trapped at the US-MX border. Donate at alotrolado.org/letsdosomething.
Judge John Hodgman is member-supported! Join at $5 a month at maximumfun.org/join!

Dec 3, 2025 • 1h 5min
An Undigested Bit of Beef LIVE in Brookline
In a lively session, Jesse, an older brother, challenges his sibling Jacob's tradition of reading A Christmas Carol aloud to his child. Jesse argues it’s overly long and suggests an edited version, while Jacob defends the importance of all the spirits for a true understanding of Scrooge's redemption. They delve into the balance of efficiency and literary essence, sparking spirited debate. Plus, a bronzed hot dog and culinary valor make their appearances, ensuring a delightful mix of humor and heart!

Nov 28, 2025 • 7min
TEASER: Members Only Mailbag November 2025
This month brings a delightful dive into Mancala, where the hosts revel in the satisfying clink of its glass tokens. The conversation navigates through the complexities of grandma nicknames, with a lively debate on the best family terms. Charity gifts versus physical presents creates a heartfelt discussion, encouraging viewers to consider donations in someone's name. Plus, insights into holiday gift preferences share a personal touch, and listeners can enjoy a whimsical exploration of childhood requests intertwined with the game's allure.

Nov 26, 2025 • 1h 30min
Opening the Members Only Mailbag
The holiday season sparks lively discussions among the gang as they explore a 'romantasy' series that has left one listener feeling unwell. Topics include the woes of handling toilet paper rolls and Jesse's wardrobe management system. They delve into summer camp memories and debate the merits of eating salad greens by the handful. With a touch of humor, the hosts also ponder family movie night dilemmas and holiday viewing traditions, promising plenty of festive cheer along the way!

Nov 19, 2025 • 58min
Why Don't We Get Drunk and Sue LIVE at SF Sketchfest
This live show features a hilarious chest freezer dispute, diving deep into the logistics of ice cream and organizational skills. The antics of James and Rob from Kasper Hauser bring a comedic twist with a Groundhog Day sketch duel. The spotlight shifts to a spirited argument over hosting a Jimmy Buffett trivia night, highlighting contrasting views on Buffett fandom and bar policies. Special guest Justin McElroy throws in trivia questions, adding to the fun. It's a delightful mix of humor, pop culture, and heartfelt moments honoring Buffett's legacy.

12 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 1h 14min
There Will Be French Toast With Nick Offerman
Nick Offerman, beloved actor and woodworker, joins to tackle some quirky disputes! He debates whether bringing an uncut watermelon is a party faux pas and hilariously taste-tests French toast with ketchup. Offerman shares insights from his new book, "Little Woodchucks," focusing on kid-friendly woodworking projects. He also discusses the merits of oil vs. polyurethane finishes and defends walnut as a classic choice in woodworking. Get ready for a mix of laughter, culinary experiments, and woodworking wisdom!

Nov 6, 2025 • 5min
TEASER: October 2025 Members Only Mailbag
Explore the quirky world of a subreddit dedicated to sink urination. Delve into the unique techniques non-penis-havers use to relieve themselves in unconventional places. The hosts debate the ethics of honesty when it comes to bathroom habits. Listen to a warning against the dangers of kitchen sink use and uncover the hilarious community dynamics of the sink pisser moderators. This mix of humor and absurdity guarantees a wild ride!

8 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 1h 6min
Shut Your Payhole
A daughter confronts her dad over his refusal to let her pay for outings, leading to a hilarious family dispute. The father believes in the honor of paying for his own way, even keeping a mental ledger of transactions. Their back-and-forth reveals how this habit impacts their relationship and family dynamics. With a special concert planned for her birthday, the case takes a turn when the judge rules in her favor, all while exploring the emotional nuances of giving and accepting generosity.

Oct 29, 2025 • 1h 11min
Sole Benefishiary
Greg and Melinda live on a sailing catamaran, but life at sea isn’t busy enough for Melinda. She wants a new hobby, and she wants that hobby to be fishing. Greg says fishing is boring and gross. He'd rather just buy fish from local vendors. Who’s right? Who’s wrong?Content Warning: about 10 minutes after the first break, there is some graphic conversation involving fishing and how to kill fish properly. If you don't want to hear about it, skip about 5 minutes ahead.Please consider donating to Al Otro Lado. Al Otro Lado provides legal assistance and humanitarian aid to refugees, deportees, and other migrants trapped at the US-MX border. Donate at alotrolado.org/letsdosomething.We are on TikTok and YouTube! Follow us on both @judgejohnhodgmanpod! Follow us on Instagram @judgejohnhodgman!Thanks to reddit user u/acone419 for naming this week’s case! To suggest a title for a future episode, keep an eye on the Maximum Fun subreddit at reddit.com/r/maximumfun!
Judge John Hodgman is member-supported! Join at $5 a month at maximumfun.org/join!


