SNAFU with Ed Helms

Rachel Maddow, Emmy Award-winning political commentator and host of the podcast Ultra, dives into the chilling details of the 1944 Great Sedition Trial. She reveals why this significant event has faded from public memory and discusses her journey tracing the roots of Holocaust denial in the U.S. Their conversation touches on the recurring themes of right-wing authoritarianism, the power of audio storytelling, and the connection to contemporary events like January 6. Maddow also shares insights on adapting her work into film, emphasizing the importance of transparency and informed citizenry in protecting democracy.

Sophia Bush, an actress and passionate activist known for her civic engagement, joins Ed Helms to dive into the intriguing 1911 heist of the Mona Lisa. They explore how Bush’s advocacy work intertwines with her passion for history. The conversation highlights the chaos of the investigation, the surprising suspects, and the eventual recovery of the iconic painting. They also reflect on the Mona Lisa's surge in fame post-theft and discuss the ethics surrounding cultural repatriation. It's a delightful mix of art, history, and advocacy!

Dan Taberski, an acclaimed documentarian and podcaster, joins to recount the bizarre and tragic Great Molasses Flood of 1919 in Boston. Ed and Dan explore why molasses was crucial during WWI and the rushed, faulty construction of a massive tank. They vividly describe the catastrophic wave that devastated the neighborhood, the chilling rescue attempts, and the community's resilience. The shocking aftermath includes lawsuits against corporate negligence and the flood's lasting place in folklore, painting a fascinating portrait of this sticky disaster.

Join filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner, known for classics like This Is Spinal Tap, and actor-musician Michael McKean as they dive into the legendary mockumentary's making and its sequel. They reveal the art of 'schnadling,' a unique improvisational technique, and discuss how affection for their characters has fueled a 40-year legacy. With laughs aplenty, they share anecdotes about on-set mishaps and reflect on Spinal Tap's impact on comedy, even addressing early reactions from real rock stars.

Kal Penn chats with Michael Lewis, a bestselling journalist renowned for his insights on finance and the 2008 crisis. They delve into the complexities of subprime mortgages and the moral dilemmas behind them. Lewis reflects on Lehman Brothers’ collapse and the characters involved, highlighting why few were prosecuted. He warns about risks moving into private markets and the shortcomings of post-crisis regulations. They also discuss trust in institutions, where Lewis invests his money, and share rapid-fire trust ratings for various media outlets.

Jake Tapper, a prominent CNN anchor and author of "Race Against Terror," dives into the harrowing story of the Lusitania's sinking. He and Ed Helms unravel the chaos of World War I, from the ship's luxurious design to the moral dilemmas of mixing civilians with wartime munitions. They explore the torpedo strike's mysteries and the devastating loss of life. Tying the past to the present, they consider how singular historical events can ignite broader consequences, highlighting parallels with today's intelligence operations.

Samantha Bee, an Emmy-winning comedian known for her sharp political satire, joins Ed Helms in a lively live conversation at 92NY. They reminisce about their time on The Daily Show and delve into entertaining and bizarre historical snafus from Ed's book. Topics include hilarious CIA schemes involving cats and pigeons, the surprising success of ozone layer recovery, and the chilling legacy of MKUltra. Together, they explore themes of hubris and secrecy while sharing a mix of humor and optimism about resilience amid political chaos.

Richard Kreitner, a journalist and historian, shares insights on secession in America, inspired by the quirky tale of Rough and Ready's brief independence in 1850. The discussion drills down into modern movements like Calexit and Texit, dissecting their motivations and seriousness. Kreitner highlights the impact of polarization and distrust in institutions on the rise of secession rhetoric today. He argues that while secession is an American concept, it should remain a last resort, emphasizing the value of national unity.

Mike Schur, renowned for his work on iconic shows like The Office and Parks and Recreation, joins the discussion on the intriguing world of Tammany Hall and the notorious Boss Tweed. They explore how Tweed, a master manipulator, garnered support through patronage and corruption, shaping New York’s political landscape. Schur delves into Tweed's ability to maintain popularity despite scandal and the crucial role of satire in exposing corruption, highlighting the enduring power of the press and comedy in politics.

Desi Lydic, a comedian and correspondent for The Daily Show, joins to dive into the chaos of the 1977 NYC blackout. They discuss the event's technical causes, how it unleashed looting and social breakdown, and the stark contrast with the calmer 1965 blackout. Desi shares insights on thriving in NYC's eccentric culture while addressing the emotional toll of satirical news. They also reflect on the blackout as a metaphor for our current societal challenges and Desi's humorous takes on what she'd change if she were mayor.