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Information Please

Presented by OTRPODS

Rediscover the wit and wisdom of Information Please!—the classic American radio quiz show that captivated audiences from 1938 to 1951. Hosted by the brilliant Clifton Fadiman, a former literary editor, this iconic show brought together an esteemed panel of experts, including Oscar Levant, Franklin P. Adams, and John Kieran, each known for their intellect and humor. Listeners submitted questions in hopes of stumping the quick-witted panel, and with celebrity guests like Groucho Marx and Orson Welles, each episode delivered a unique blend of knowledge and laughter. From poetry and sports to music and history, Information Please! entertained with lively debates, clever puns, and spontaneous humor. Now re-broadcasted for a new generation, this show is perfect for trivia lovers, history buffs, and fans of vintage radio. Tune in and enjoy a true gem from radio’s golden age! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

229 episodes

  1. November 7, 1941: Political Warnings and Musical Bouquets with Douglas Miller

    Nov 7, 2023 · 28 min

    In this November 7, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes Douglas Miller, former commercial attaché in Berlin and author of You Can’t Do Business With Hitler. Joining regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel takes on questions about political warnings from history, memorable collaborators who famously didn’t get along, and identifying flowers from poetic verses.Miller’s expertise provides fascinating insights into wartime Germany, while Levant charms the audience with his musical knowledge, including identifying pieces from Brahms and Stravinsky. With lively debates, humor, and engaging trivia, this episode is an entertaining mix of history, literature, and cultural commentary. Tune in for an evening of thought-provoking trivia on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. October 31, 1941: Vaudeville Laughter and Musical Charm with Groucho Marx and Deems Taylor

    Oct 31, 2023 · 30 min

    In this October 31, 1941, Halloween-themed episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes two exceptional guests: the legendary comedian Groucho Marx and composer Deems Taylor. Joined by regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel embarks on a lively trivia adventure featuring vaudeville acts, classic musical arias, and Shakespearean mysteries.Marx’s quick wit shines as he improvises responses to theatrical and literary riddles, while Taylor impresses with his deep musical knowledge, including Gilbert and Sullivan choruses. From solving poetic puzzles to recalling famous nicknamed figures like Gloomy Gus, this episode is packed with laughter, intellect, and timeless charm. Tune in for a memorable evening of humor and trivia on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. October 24, 1941: Nautical Knowledge and Famous Court Trials with Russell Crouse and C. S. Forester

    Oct 24, 2023 · 27 min

    In this October 24, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a captivating session featuring two literary titans: Russell Crouse, co-author of Life with Father, and C. S. Forester, creator of Horatio Hornblower. Joined by regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel dives into questions about nautical terminology, court trials in literature, and historical naval battles.Forester’s maritime expertise shines as the team discusses the Battle of Trafalgar and the role of soundings on a ship, while Crouse’s wit adds flair to explorations of courtroom burlesques and Shakespearean oaths. With lively debates and humorous exchanges, this episode offers a delightful mix of literary and historical trivia. Tune in for an engaging evening of wit and knowledge on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. October 17, 1941: Whimsical Crimes and Musical Riddles with Fred Allen

    Oct 17, 2023 · 26 min

    In this October 17, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes back the incomparable Fred Allen for a night filled with humor and quick wit. Regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant join Allen in tackling quirky questions about whimsical crimes, literary riddles, and the sources of famous book titles.Allen’s sharp comedic timing shines in an imaginary murder mystery involving Jack Benny and a violin. The panel also explores nursery rhymes, Shakespearean wordplay, and the origins of classic quotes. Tune in for a laughter-filled session of trivia, wit, and timeless radio charm on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. October 10, 1941: Mayoral Moments and Poetic Waters with Fiorello La Guardia and Deems Taylor

    Oct 10, 2023 · 13 min

    In this October 10, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a memorable session featuring Fiorello La Guardia, the charismatic mayor of New York City, and Deems Taylor, the celebrated composer and music critic. With regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the evening’s questions span topics from poetic references to bodies of water to unique moments in mayoral history.La Guardia’s humor and Taylor’s musical expertise shine as they identify literary lakes, debate historical mayors, and unravel riddles from mythology. With witty exchanges and intellectual flair, this episode offers a delightful blend of trivia, charm, and insight. Tune in for an engaging evening of classic radio on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. October 3, 1941: Baseball Legends and Historical Winds with Lefty Gomez

    Oct 3, 2023 · 16 min

    In this October 3, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a spirited trivia session featuring legendary New York Yankees pitcher Lefty Gomez. Regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant join Gomez to explore a variety of topics, from famous World Series moments and baseball slang to Shakespearean weather references and iconic nursery rhyme characters.Gomez’s charm and sports expertise shine as he recalls pivotal moments in Yankees history, shares insights into colorful baseball expressions, and tackles historical questions with humor. With lively banter and engaging trivia, this episode is a home run of wit, knowledge, and entertainment. Tune in for a delightful session on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. September 26, 1941: Musical Masterpieces and Shakespearean Mysteries with Sir Thomas Beecham and Jan Struther

    Sep 26, 2023 · 28 min

    In this September 26, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a captivating trivia session featuring Sir Thomas Beecham, the legendary conductor, and Jan Struther, the delightful author of Mrs. Miniver. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel tackles a broad range of topics, from etymology and musical cadenzas to the mysteries of Shakespeare’s characters.Beecham’s musical expertise shines as he identifies excerpts from Brahms and Rimsky-Korsakov, while Struther’s wit adds charm to discussions about literary illustrations and classic lines of advice. With playful banter and intellectual depth, this episode is a brilliant blend of music, literature, and humor. Tune in for an engaging evening where knowledge and entertainment converge on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. September 19, 1941: Musical Inspirations and Poetic Puzzles with Stephen Vincent Benét

    Sep 20, 2023 · 28 min

    In this September 19, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and author Stephen Vincent Benét, known for The Devil and Daniel Webster. Regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant join in to tackle a delightful range of topics, including the poets behind famous musical compositions, literary farming heroes, and memorable baseball stats.Benét’s literary flair adds depth to discussions on Shakespearean metaphors, mythical dragons, and poetic objects found in bedrooms. With humor and wit, the panel navigates questions that blend music, literature, and history. Tune in for a captivating evening of intellectual charm and cultural trivia on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  9. September 12, 1941: Literary Villains and Geographic Gems with Louis Bromfield and Margaret Leech

    Sep 13, 2023 · 29 min

    In this September 12, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Margaret Leech and acclaimed novelist Louis Bromfield. Joining regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the team tackles an eclectic mix of questions, from the fates of literary villains like Uriah Heep and Iago to identifying geographic treasures in India, Canada, and Russia.Leech and Bromfield bring wit and depth to lively discussions on historical figures, nursery rhyme menus, and poetic adjectives in classic American verses. With humor and sharp intellect, the panel delivers an evening of engaging trivia and timeless charm. Tune in for an unforgettable session where knowledge meets fun on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  10. September 5, 1941: Musical Mysteries and Curious Characters with Deems Taylor

    Sep 6, 2023 · 27 min

    In this September 5, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a lively trivia session featuring composer and music critic Deems Taylor. Alongside regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the team dives into an eclectic mix of topics, from musical pieces every child learns to questions about literary characters and historical anecdotes.Taylor’s musical expertise shines as the panel tackles challenges identifying pieces like Für Elise and decoding cryptic compositions. The group also explores culinary riddles and the origins of poetic lines with humor and wit. Tune in for a delightful evening of music, literature, and spirited debates on this timeless episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  11. August 15, 1941: Literary Cocktails and Shakespearean Wit with Russell Crouse and Deems Taylor

    Aug 16, 2023 · 29 min

    In this August 15, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a lively and humorous session featuring Russell Crouse, co-author of Life with Father, and the returning Deems Taylor, renowned composer and music critic. Joining regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel tackles an eclectic mix of questions ranging from crafting literary-inspired cocktails to unraveling Shakespearean characters.Crouse’s quick wit and Taylor’s musical knowledge shine as the team explores topics like poetic metaphors, historical military ranks, and creative uses of literary references in mixology. This episode blends humor, intellectual curiosity, and timeless charm. Tune in for a delightful evening of spontaneous trivia and engaging banter on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  12. August 8, 1941: Baseball Hoaxes and Famous Frogs with Larry MacPhail

    Aug 9, 2023 · 28 min

    In this August 8, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a spirited trivia session with Larry MacPhail, president of the Brooklyn Dodgers, alongside regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. The evening’s questions cover a lively mix of topics, including baseball hoaxes, legendary frogs from Mark Twain’s tales, and historical anecdotes about mischief and ingenuity.MacPhail brings his sports expertise to questions about ballplayers and strategic pranks, while the panel engages in humorous debates about nursery rhymes and Shakespearean characters. With wit and laughter, this episode combines sports trivia, literary charm, and the timeless appeal of radio. Tune in for a fun-filled session on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  13. August 1, 1941: Presidential Sons and Poetic First Lines with Lyman Bryson and Henry Noble McCracken

    Aug 2, 2023 · 30 min

    In this August 1, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads an intellectually rich session featuring two distinguished educators: Professor Lyman Bryson of Columbia University and Dr. Henry Noble McCracken, President of Vassar College. Regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran round out the panel as they tackle questions ranging from genealogical trivia about famous presidential sons to challenging poetic first lines.The panel dives into topics like historical battles, literary elopements, and Shakespearean quotes, with humor and quick wit guiding their responses. With insights into George Washington’s maternal lineage, mythological swimmers, and poetic primroses, this episode offers an engaging mix of history, literature, and trivia charm. Tune in for a delightful evening of spontaneous fun and timeless knowledge on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  14. July 11, 1941: Theater Queens and Numerical News with Mary Boland

    Jul 12, 2023 · 30 min

    In this July 11, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a delightful trivia session with Mary Boland, the renowned stage and screen actress. Joined by regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the group tackles a mix of entertaining questions ranging from Shakespearean queens and historical draft ages to literary titles involving food.Boland’s theatrical expertise shines as she shares insights into Pride and Prejudice and matches wits with the panel over poetic challenges. From memorable nursery rhymes to newsworthy numbers like DiMaggio’s streak and World War draft limits, this episode blends humor, intellect, and classic trivia charm. Tune in for a wonderful evening of lighthearted fun on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  15. July 4, 1941: Surrender Terms and Historical Agreements with Walter Duranty and John Gunther

    Jul 5, 2023 · 29 min

    In this patriotic July 4, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman presents a thought-provoking trivia session with guests Walter Duranty, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, and John Gunther, renowned author of Inside Europe. Joining regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the team tackles questions that span surrender terms in various contexts, treaties in international diplomacy, and moments in history tied to famous Russian battles.Duranty and Gunther bring sharp insights to discussions about naval traditions, Shakespearean burials, and pivotal events like the Brest-Litovsk treaty. With humor and intellect, this episode captures the spirit of Independence Day with a focus on historical milestones and cultural touchstones. Tune in for an evening of engaging trivia and lively debates on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  16. June 27, 1941: Suspense and Culinary Arts with Alfred Hitchcock

    Jun 28, 2023 · 29 min

    In this thrilling June 27, 1941, episode of Information Please, master of suspense Alfred Hitchcock joins host Clifton Fadiman and regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant for an evening of intellectual and playful trivia. Hitchcock’s wit and insights take center stage as the panel explores topics ranging from cinematic innovations and scenes of suspense to culinary terminology and poetic numbers.From defining the difference between a gourmet and a gourmand to identifying suspenseful moments in literature and film, Hitchcock lends his signature charm and humor to the discussion. This episode blends the intrigue of Hollywood, the joy of trivia, and the timeless appeal of radio. Tune in for a captivating session with Information Please where intellect meets entertainment! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  17. June 20, 1941: Presidential Trivia and Poetic Gardens with Alfred E. Smith and James Wallace

    Jun 21, 2023 · 29 min

    In this June 20, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman moderates a captivating trivia session with former New York Governor Alfred E. Smith and Judge James Wallace. Regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran complete the panel as they explore an intriguing mix of topics, including presidential nominations, poetic gardens, and famous firsts in broadcasting history.Smith’s political insights add depth to discussions about historical conventions, while Wallace’s sharp wit shines in literary puzzles and humorous recollections of melodramas. Together, the panel navigates questions about rhododendrons, famous sports broadcasts, and Irish-themed expressions with humor and charm. Tune in for a delightful evening of historical, political, and literary trivia on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  18. June 13, 1941: Tennis Terms and Biblical Heroes with Bill Tilden

    Jun 14, 2023 · 29 min

    In this June 13, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes the legendary tennis champion Bill Tilden as the evening’s guest. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel tackles an exciting array of topics, including Biblical feats of strength, famous literary triangles, and clever uses of tennis terms in poetry.Tilden’s sporting expertise adds a unique dimension as he participates in questions about doubles partners, historical athleticism, and the interplay of tennis and literature. With humor, intellect, and lively banter, this episode offers a winning mix of sports, history, and classic trivia. Tune in for a delightful session filled with surprises and charm on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  19. June 6, 1941: Mythical Chariots and Feline Tales with Sally Benson

    Jun 7, 2023 · 29 min

    In this June 6, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a whimsical evening of trivia featuring Sally Benson, acclaimed author of Junior Miss. Joined by regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel explores topics ranging from mythological chariot rides and literary felines to nursery rhymes and operatic calls.Benson’s charm shines as the team unravels the myth of Phaeton and his fiery ride, identifies memorable cats from poetry, and discusses famous echoes from ancient myths. With a delightful mix of humor and intellectual sparring, this episode offers a journey through history, literature, and playful banter. Tune in for a lighthearted and fascinating evening on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  20. May 30, 1941: Poetic Birds and Literary Kitchens with Cornelia Otis Skinner and Jan Struther

    May 30, 2023 · 29 min

    In this May 30, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes Cornelia Otis Skinner, the celebrated actress and writer, and Jan Struther, beloved author of Mrs. Miniver. Joined by regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the team navigates a range of topics, from poetic lines about birds to identifying culinary distinctions between bouillon and broth.Skinner and Struther’s charm and intellect shine as they explore Mother Goose rhymes, discuss the works of Henry VIII’s wives, and delve into fictional families from Dickens. This episode is filled with humor, cultural insights, and timeless trivia. Tune in for an entertaining evening where literature, history, and quick wit converge on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  21. May 23, 1941: Critics, Champions, and Musical Masterpieces with Deems Taylor as Host

    May 23, 2023 · 30 min

    In this special May 23, 1941, third-anniversary episode of Information Please, the usual roles are reversed as composer and music critic Deems Taylor takes over hosting duties, while Clifton Fadiman joins the panel alongside Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. The evening’s questions range from identifying champions and cabinet members who appeared on the show to exploring musical gems from Mozart’s piano concertos.Taylor keeps the mood lively as Fadiman faces a playful grilling about his past literary reviews. Levant’s musical expertise and Adams’ wit add to the fun as the panel navigates topics like literary characters, poetic first lines, and historic diplomatic figures. Tune in for a celebratory evening of trivia, humor, and surprises on this milestone episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  22. May 16, 1941: Oil Barons and Literary First Lines with Dick Maney and Frank Sullivan

    May 16, 2023 · 30 min

    In this May 16, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads a witty and engaging session featuring two entertaining guests: Dick Maney, the famous theatrical publicist, and humorist Frank Sullivan. Joined by regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel tackles a lively mix of questions ranging from oil tycoons who backed baseball leagues to identifying iconic literary first lines.Maney’s theater expertise and Sullivan’s humor shine as they navigate Shakespearean soliloquies, nursery rhymes, and curious etymologies. With moments of playful banter and intellectual insight, this episode offers a delightful mix of trivia, culture, and laughter. Tune in to match wits with America’s brightest minds on this classic Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  23. May 9, 1941: Boxing Blows and Shakespearean Jewels with Gene Tunney

    May 9, 2023 · 30 min

    In this May 9, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes guest Gene Tunney, former heavyweight boxing champion and U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel dives into questions about iconic boxing maneuvers, Shakespearean quotes, and notable sporting nicknames.Tunney’s expertise takes center stage as he recalls legendary punches like the “Mary Ann Blow” and analyzes Hemingway’s depiction of boxing in Fifty Grand. The panel also navigates Shakespearean jewels and historical political terms, blending wit and intellect. Tune in for a unique mix of sports trivia, literary charm, and humor in this memorable episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  24. May 2, 1941: Screenplays and Musical Twists with Donald Ogden Stewart and Deems Taylor

    May 2, 2023 · 30 min

    In this May 2, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman moderates a witty and engaging session featuring special guests Donald Ogden Stewart, Oscar-winning screenwriter of The Philadelphia Story, and composer Deems Taylor, a celebrated figure in American music. Regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant join the duo to tackle topics ranging from poetic references to automobile parts to identifying ships in literary classics.Stewart’s humor and Taylor’s musical expertise shine as the panel navigates questions about Shakespearean lines, nursery rhymes, and memorable scenes from classic films. With lively debates and clever banter, this episode delivers an evening of entertaining trivia and timeless radio charm. Tune in to enjoy wit, knowledge, and a touch of Hollywood glamor on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  25. April 25, 1941: Literary Lovers and Imaginary Games with Paul Lukas

    Apr 25, 2023 · 27 min

    In this April 25, 1941, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes the distinguished actor Paul Lukas, star of Watch on the Rhine, as the evening’s guest. Joined by regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the team navigates a diverse range of questions, from literary lovers and the Merry Wives of Windsor to famous imaginary games and musical compositions by young prodigies.Lukas lends his charm and theatrical expertise to discussions about Dostoevsky’s Karamazov brothers, Shakespearean humor, and iconic film directors. The episode sparkles with wit and insight as the panel dives into cultural trivia and playful debates. Tune in for an evening of humor, intellect, and delightful surprises on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.