SNAFU with Ed Helms

This episode dives deep into Project Azorian, a CIA mission to recover the sunken Soviet submarine K-129, filled with Cold War intrigue. Ed humorously recounts the audacious burglary at Howard Hughes' headquarters, where chaos and comedy intertwine. The tale also reveals the complications of espionage, from the challenges faced during the recovery to the controversial 'Glomar response' that ensued. Prepare for a wild ride through history's blunders, peppered with unbelievable twists and the complexities of covert operations!

Josh Graham Lynn, co-founder of Represent Us, discusses the historical lessons of political corruption and the ongoing fight for true representation. He explores how Prohibition's failures mirror today’s governance issues and stresses the importance of grassroots movements in empowering voters. The conversation highlights the emotional manipulation in political debates and the need for systemic reforms like ranked choice voting to combat polarization. With an emphasis on transparency and accountability, Lynn inspires listeners to advocate for democracy that truly represents the people.

Ed is joined by writer, producer, and showrunner Terence Winter who shares stories about his New York upbringing and journey into Hollywood, and describes what it took to build a world from a century ago for his hit HBO show, “Boardwalk Empire. ”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dive into the chaotic aftermath of Prohibition as key figures face the consequences of their actions. Discover the intense undercover mission to capture the slippery George Cassidy and the fallout of his crimes. Unravel the unsolved murder of artist Mary Pinchot Meyer, revealing deep societal implications. Explore the profound impact of a pioneering forensic scientist on public health and safety. The tensions of accountability and corruption during this turbulent era highlight the complexities of American history.

As you might have heard, the SNAFU book comes out next week (April 29, 2025)! If you want to meet Ed, either on book tour or virtually, buy your copy right now. He’ll be hosting a private Ask Me Anything for anyone who preorders and submits their proof of purchase here: www.Snafu-Book.com. Or if in-person is more your style, you can also join Ed on his book tour next week in 8 cities across the country, complete with book signings (NYC, Philadelphia, DC, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Silicon Valley, LA). On this episode, Ed sits down with his producer Carl Nellis to talk about treasure hunting for SNAFUs, the book’s jazzy and hangable art, his favorite stories (even if he loves all his children the same…), and which SNAFU characters he’d like to play in a movie adaptation.   Again, you can preorder SNAFU, buy your book tour tickets, or sign up for Ed’s virtual AMA at this link: www.snafu-book.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dive into the turbulent world of Prohibition, where Mabel Walker Willebrandt fights fierce political battles amid societal chaos. Discover the shocking rise in alcohol poisoning cases as a result of tainted liquor, claiming lives by the thousands. Uncover the internal struggles of a cowboy-turned-agent and the chaotic aftermath of Richard Capone's reckless actions. The gripping courtroom battles of Richard Hart reveal the complex interplay of loyalty and legality in a corrupt era. Join the unraveling of a historical drama filled with unexpected twists!

Dive into the gritty world of Prohibition, where law enforcement grapples with moral dilemmas and toxic alcohol haunts society. Uncover the chilling murder case of Anna Fredrickson, alongside the comedic chaos at Bellevue Hospital on Christmas Eve. Explore the art of crafting signature cocktails, blending creativity with social culture. Amid the dark history, humor and surprising connections shine through, revealing both the dangers of the era and the resilience of the human spirit.

Discover the dramatic tales of Prohibition enforcement in America, where outnumbered agents face daunting challenges. Witness heroic acts, like Richard Hart's bravery during a flood, and the tension at family gatherings amidst legal duties. Explore the dark underbelly of bootlegging, betrayal, and controversial alliances, including the Klan's involvement. Delve into the ethical struggles faced by lawmen and the Women's Christian Temperance Union's divisive support. This is a gripping journey through a turbulent era that changed American society forever.

Discover the fascinating world of Prohibition and Mabel Walker Willebrandt's efforts to tackle corruption as she builds a case against notorious bootlegger George Remus. Explore the glitzy yet shadowy life of Remus and the innovative legal strategies used by persistent female attorneys. Uncover the covert poker games of the elite, where the line between government and crime blurs. Plus, delve into the personal challenges of parenthood intertwined with the struggle for justice in a corrupt society.

Discover the gripping tale of George Cassiday, a World War I survivor whose battlefield experiences collide with the harsh realities of Prohibition. Delve into the story of Little Mabel, as she navigates the underground liquor scene amidst personal struggles. Explore the fascinating transformation of speakeasies into chemistry labs, creating safer alternatives to illicit liquor. Finally, uncover the alarming dangers of toxic alcohol as the podcast sheds light on the historical crisis surrounding industrial alcohol fatalities.