

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

10 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 49min
The Fight to Remain Silent
Eileen accuses Walter of talking too much in their friendship, leading to a hilarious three-minute silence challenge. They debate whether vocal mouth sounds count as breaking silence. A mime joins to test Walter’s resolve in a live experiment. Themes of attention-seeking and personal histories emerge as they explore Walter's loquacious nature. In the end, the judge rules Walter failed the challenge, prompting a comical exchange about movie-watching permissions and reactions to the verdict.

Dec 31, 2025 • 1h 28min
Oops! All Jello! JJHo Holiday Party 2025
Happy Holidays from the JJHo team! It’s the MOST, wonderful tiiiime of the year: when Judge John Hodgman, Bailiff Jesse Thorn, and Producer Jennifer Marmor try your…favorite? Classic? UNREPEATABLE, jiggly family holiday recipes! We’ll answer all your burning questions like: is Pretzel Salad a side dish or a dessert? What does cottage cheese blended into lime jello taste like? And what REALLY happened on Anne’s grandmother’s life-changing trip to Japan? We’ll answer all those questions, plus settle your holiday disputes, in this very special Holiday Office Party, JELLO edition!San Francisco area litigants, join us LIVE at San Francisco Sketchfest on Sunday, January 18th for a very special road court episode of Judge John Hodgman. Don’t wait – get your tickets now here!
Judge John Hodgman is member-supported! Become a member to unlock special bonus episodes, discounts on our merch, and more by joining us at: maximumfun.org/join!

Dec 26, 2025 • 5min
TEASER: Members Only Mailbag December 2025
Are you a knuckle cracker? Or do you hate the sound? What other bodily functions make "fun" noises? The J Squad discusses this and much more in the last Members Only Mailbag of 2025! Available now in the members-only bonus feed!Not a member yet? You can become a member TODAY at maximumfun.org/join. Just $5 a month gets you immediate access to our full library of bonus content. Gift-giving season has come to a close but why not give yourself a lil treat?Thank you to all of our members for keeping this show going!
Judge John Hodgman is member-supported! Become a member to unlock special bonus episodes, discounts on our merch, and more by joining us at: maximumfun.org/join!

Dec 24, 2025 • 1h 6min
Snack Judgment with Michael Ian Black & Tom Cavanagh
Join the snack-savvy duo Michael Ian Black, a comedian and podcaster known for his humorous takes, and Tom Cavanagh, an actor and fellow snack enthusiast, as they dive into the art of snacking. They debate road trip snack strategies and the etiquette of eating a Fruit Roll-Up. Discover their thoughts on the fine line between snacks and meals, the complexity of popcorn toppings, and how to properly enjoy Kit Kats. Get ready for hilarious insights and tasty banter!

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! Become a member to unlock special bonus episodes, discounts on our merch, and more by joining us 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! Become a member to unlock special bonus episodes, discounts on our merch, and more by joining us 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.


