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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. October 22, 1940: Tragic Women and Campaign Managers with Herbert Bayard Swope and Deems Taylor

    Oct 23, 2022 · 29 min

    In this October 22, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads an enlightening and humorous session with two esteemed guests: Herbert Bayard Swope, celebrated journalist and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, and Deems Taylor, renowned composer and music critic. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel tackles a fascinating array of topics, from famous literary women who faced tragic consequences to the roles of presidential campaign managers in American history.Swope’s journalistic insights shine as he discusses notable campaign managers and political strategies, while Taylor’s wit adds charm to questions about literary characters and music. This episode brings intellectual rigor and humor as the experts tackle trivia on everything from Norse literature to the origins of American political terms. Tune in for a memorable evening of wit, history, and classic radio charm! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. October 15, 1940: Coy Mistresses and Curious Currency with Louis Hacker

    Oct 16, 2022 · 29 min

    In this October 15, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman is joined by historian Louis Hacker, author of The Triumph of American Capitalism, along with regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. Together, the panel faces a mix of intellectual challenges, from reciting lines about coy mistresses in poetry to explaining the curious origins of early American “wildcat” banks and currency.Hacker’s expertise shines as he discusses historical financial terms and famous vice presidents with unique ambitions. The episode explores poetic quotes, classic card games, and historical events, blending humor and insight in this engaging session. Join the experts for a lively evening of trivia that brings literature, history, and a touch of wit to the forefront in Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. October 8, 1940: Poetic Proposals and Island Fauna with Louis Bromfield and Jan Struther

    Oct 8, 2022 · 29 min

    In this October 8, 1940, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts an intellectually rich session featuring novelist Louis Bromfield, known for The Rains Came, and British author Jan Struther, creator of Mrs. Miniver. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel faces questions that delve into literary proposals, Mother Goose rhymes, and animals named after British Isles.Struther’s wit and Bromfield’s literary insight shine as the panel tackles whimsical challenges involving nursery rhymes, famous book characters, and the origins of alcoholic drink names. Join in for a delightful evening filled with poetic charm, humor, and curious trivia in this memorable episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. October 1, 1940: Wheelchairs, Wartime Women, and Literary Nicknames with Clare Boothe

    Oct 1, 2022 · 29 min

    In this October 1, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes acclaimed journalist and playwright Clare Boothe, author of The Women and Europe in the Spring. With regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel tackles an intriguing variety of questions, from identifying characters in plays who use wheelchairs to the role of women’s names in wartime codes.Boothe’s insights bring depth to questions about famous fictional Catherines and historical figures known for their anti-smoking stance. Join the panel for a delightful mix of literary references, historical tidbits, and the humorous exchanges that make Information Please a beloved classic. Test your own knowledge as the experts face questions designed to stump even the brightest minds! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. September 24, 1940: Toys, Battles, and Political Cartoons with Marc Connelly and Alva Johnston

    Sep 24, 2022 · 29 min

    In this lively September 24, 1940, episode of Information Please, the panel is led by Franklin P. Adams, who steps in as host while Clifton Fadiman recovers. The lineup includes Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Marc Connelly and journalist Alva Johnston, who join regulars John Kieran and Oscar Levant. Together, they tackle questions covering everything from classic toys named after presidents to historic battles and political cartoons.Connelly and Johnston lend their wit and insight as the experts guess the origins of famous toys, recall legendary Senate duels, and interpret iconic political caricatures. With a playful mix of humor and intellect, this episode captures the charm and spontaneity that makes Information Please a timeless classic. Tune in for an evening of historical trivia, witty banter, and fascinating stories! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. September 17, 1940: Epic Rivers and Presidential Dreams with Otto Tolischus

    Sep 17, 2022 · 29 min

    In this September 17, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman moderates an engaging evening of trivia featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Otto Tolischus, known for his reporting on global affairs. Regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant join Tolischus as they explore topics ranging from epic rivers and patriotic anthems to dreams of a united Europe.Tolischus offers insightful commentary as the panel tackles questions about historical proposals for European unity, the geography of the Danube River, and famous phrases from American songs. With humor and wit, the experts test their knowledge on both literature and history. Tune in to join the fun and intellectual challenge in this episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. September 10, 1940: Royal Abdications and Fictional Sisters with John Gunther and Jan Struther

    Sep 10, 2022 · 29 min

    In this September 10, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings together an international panel featuring journalist and foreign correspondent John Gunther, known for his insightful works on world affairs, and Jan Struther, celebrated British author of Mrs. Miniver. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel faces an array of intriguing questions that range from recent royal abdications to famous groups of sisters in literature.Struther’s and Gunther’s expertise shine as they discuss European events, identify notable fictional siblings, and recall historical figures with unique epithets. With lighthearted humor and intellectual depth, this episode captures the wit and charm that define Information Please. Tune in to test your knowledge and enjoy an engaging mix of history, literature, and classic 1940s trivia! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. September 3, 1940: Island Names and Cryptic Combinations with Henry Beetle Hough

    Sep 3, 2022 · 29 min

    In this September 3, 1940, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts an intellectually stimulating session with Henry Beetle Hough, editor of the Vineyard Gazette and author of Country Editor. Joined by regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel tackles an array of questions, from deciphering cryptic letter combinations to identifying islands with names rooted in legend and history.Hough’s insights add depth to discussions about American Indian history on Martha’s Vineyard, and the panel’s knowledge is tested on everything from poetic characters involved in elopements to abbreviations that hint at telegraph terms. Join in for a mix of humor, knowledge, and clever banter in this engaging and classic episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  9. August 27, 1940: Presidential Quirks and Mythical Trivia with Christopher Morley and James Roosevelt

    Aug 27, 2022 · 27 min

    In this August 27, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings together two special guests: celebrated author Christopher Morley and James Roosevelt, son of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and a notable film producer. Regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran join in as the team tackles a variety of questions, from famous mythical heroes and their presidential aspirations to curious historical details about racehorses and family legacies.The panel’s knowledge and humor shine through as they answer questions involving Native American folklore, literary pairings, and notable political figures. Roosevelt’s political insights and Morley’s literary expertise create a lively and insightful episode. Tune in for a classic mix of humor, intellect, and a bit of political fun in this engaging episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  10. August 20, 1940: Famous Film Sets and Patriotic Phrases with Walter Wanger

    Aug 20, 2022 · 28 min

    In this August 20, 1940, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes distinguished Hollywood producer Walter Wanger, known for his work on Foreign Correspondent, directed by Alfred Hitchcock. With regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel tackles an intriguing series of questions, from famous film settings and patriotic speeches to nursery rhymes and historical locations featured in iconic plays.Wanger’s cinematic insights add depth as the panel identifies scenes from popular movies, recites famous lines from historic speeches, and answers whimsical questions involving nursery rhymes. Join in for a lively session where Hollywood glamour meets intellectual trivia, creating an unforgettable mix of humor, knowledge, and charm on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  11. August 13, 1940: Fiery Furnaces and Political Quirks with Harold Ickes and Kenneth Simpson

    Aug 13, 2022 · 30 min

    In this August 13, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings together two distinguished guests: Secretary of the Interior Harold Ickes and New York County Chairman Kenneth Simpson. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel tackles questions that range from biblical tales of survival to political trivia and classic literary rivalries.Ickes and Simpson share insights as they navigate historical elections, curious presidential trivia, and literary characters who survived extreme challenges. With lively debates and humorous exchanges, this episode offers a blend of political wit, literary knowledge, and engaging trivia. Tune in to enjoy the wit and wisdom of Information Please, where intellect and humor meet for a timeless radio experience! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  12. August 6, 1940: Famous Firsts and Geographic Wonders with F. Van Wyck Mason

    Aug 6, 2022 · 29 min

    In this August 6, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman presents an intriguing session of trivia with special guest F. Van Wyck Mason, celebrated historical novelist and author of Stars on the Sea. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel tackles questions that span famous firsts, geographic landmarks, and iconic literary titles that sound like business names.Mason’s historical insight adds depth to questions involving postcards from famous American sites, books with titles that could be business firms, and the requirements to hold public office. The panel navigates each topic with humor and intellect, offering a delightful mix of knowledge and wit. Tune in for an engaging session of 1940s trivia that takes listeners on a journey through literature, history, and iconic American landmarks! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  13. July 30, 1940: Military Strategies and World Affairs with John Gunther and Alva Johnston

    Jul 30, 2022 · 30 min

    In this July 30, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings together a panel featuring two distinguished guests: John Gunther, author of Inside Asia and Inside Europe, and Alva Johnston, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist. Alongside regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel dives into questions that span global events, military strategies, and famous literary works.Gunther and Johnston provide sharp insights on recent world news, interpreting political moves and military decisions in light of ongoing global conflicts. The panel also tackles clever riddles involving famous songs, memorable American figures, and classic literary references. With a mix of intellectual discourse, humor, and spontaneous trivia challenges, this episode showcases the charm and depth of Information Please. Tune in to see if the panelists can tackle America’s most thought-provoking questions! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  14. July 16, 1940: Musical Bells and Literary Hats with Deems Taylor and Monty Woolley

    Jul 16, 2022 · 29 min

    In this July 16, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings humor and intellect to the evening’s trivia with special guests Deems Taylor, famed composer and music critic, and Monty Woolley, celebrated actor and wit. Joined by regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel tackles an assortment of questions, from identifying sounds of various bells to recalling literary hats with magical properties.The session is filled with memorable exchanges as Taylor and Woolley add their charm, tackling challenges that involve historical events, famous rides in literature, and Shakespearean dining without dining. With Woolley’s humor and Taylor’s musical insight, this episode delivers a lively mix of wit, intellect, and playful banter. Join in for an evening of spontaneous fun and classic 1940s trivia with Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  15. April 23, 1940: Boogie-Woogie, Strategy, and Animal Kingdom Legends with Deems Taylor and Major George Fielding Eliot

    Apr 23, 2022 · 29 min

    In this April 23, 1940, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts an evening of trivia with two esteemed guests: composer and music critic Deems Taylor and military commentator Major George Fielding Eliot. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel faces a mix of topics, from defining musical styles like boogie-woogie to distinguishing between strategy and tactics in military contexts.The questions challenge the panel to recall famous phrases from Rudyard Kipling, navigate military distinctions, and explore literature involving animals that influence human fates. With Taylor’s humor and Eliot’s strategic expertise, this episode brings an engaging blend of music, history, and intellectual sparring. Tune in for a classic evening of wit and knowledge on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  16. April 2, 1940: Advertising Tricks and Literary Puzzles with Lewis Gannett

    Apr 2, 2022 · 29 min

    In this April 2, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman presents a challenging evening of trivia with special guest Lewis Gannett, the prominent book reviewer from the New York Herald-Tribune. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel takes on an intriguing range of questions covering everything from clever advertising slogans and famous fictional cats to identifying books based on quirky promotional descriptions.Gannett’s literary expertise shines as the panel deciphers classic advertisements, historical songs, and witty phrases involving notable literary and fictional characters. Tune in for an enjoyable evening filled with literary puzzles, humor, and insightful discussions as the experts aim to outsmart listeners and share their knowledge in this lively episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  17. March 26, 1940: Psychiatric Songs and Dramatic Moments with Howard Lindsay and Russell Crouse

    Mar 26, 2022 · 29 min

    In this March 26, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman is joined by Broadway legends Howard Lindsay and Russell Crouse, co-authors of the hit play Life with Father. With regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel navigates an entertaining array of questions, from naming songs that imply the need for a psychiatrist to identifying pivotal broken objects in famous plays.The panel brings humor and insight as they discuss theatrical props, famous lines from plays, and lighthearted psychiatric themes in popular music. Lindsay and Crouse’s Broadway expertise adds a special flair to the evening, making for a memorable and lively episode. Tune in for a delightful mix of drama, trivia, and wit as Information Please takes on questions that challenge America’s brightest minds! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  18. March 19, 1940: Sound Effects, Book Titles, and Historical Trivia with John Chamberlain

    Mar 19, 2022 · 29 min

    In this March 19, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman is joined by special guest John Chamberlain, journalist and literary critic, along with regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. This unique episode explores everything from literary titles suggested by sound effects to historical election anomalies, with Chamberlain’s insights adding depth and humor.The panel faces lively challenges, including identifying books by listening to sound cues and recalling forgotten historical figures from pivotal events. Levant’s musical talent is highlighted as the team attempts to match melodies with popular song titles. Tune in for a witty and intellectual evening filled with trivia, banter, and the classic charm of 1940s radio, where knowledge and humor combine for an engaging episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  19. January 2, 1940: Arithmetic, Pulitzer Plays, and Famous Speeches with Gloria Stuart and Carl Van Doren

    Jan 2, 2022 · 28 min

    In this New Year’s episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman kicks off 1940 with special guests Gloria Stuart, the elegant star of The Three Musketeers, and Carl Van Doren, Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer of Benjamin Franklin. Alongside regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the evening’s questions bring humor and challenge with topics ranging from arithmetic problems in nursery rhymes to settings in Pulitzer Prize-winning plays.Stuart’s Hollywood charm and Van Doren’s literary knowledge shine as the panel tackles memorable arithmetic puzzles, scenes from award-winning dramas, and quotations from America’s most famous speeches. Join the experts for a delightful blend of intellect, wit, and friendly banter as they try to avoid being stumped and share their insights with listeners in this entertaining start to 1940! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  20. December 26, 1939: Travels, Famous Last Words, and a Touch of Shakespeare with Sir Cedric Hardwicke

    Dec 26, 2021 · 29 min

    In this December 26, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman wraps up the year with an exciting session featuring the distinguished British actor Sir Cedric Hardwicke, soon to open in The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, Hardwicke brings his theatrical charm to a range of questions, from famous travel destinations in literature to identifying characters in novels with no female roles.The panel faces memorable challenges, including interpreting last words of historic figures, identifying Shakespearean references, and pinpointing destinations from poetic lines. With Hardwicke’s British wit adding depth and humor, this episode offers an engaging blend of literary and cultural trivia. Join in for an intellectual treat filled with wit, humor, and the unique charm of 1930s radio on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  21. December 19, 1939: Musical Memories and Holiday Traditions with Christopher Morley and Albert Spalding

    Dec 19, 2021 · 28 min

    In this festive December 19, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman celebrates the holiday season with special guests Christopher Morley, celebrated author of Kitty Foyle, and world-renowned violinist Albert Spalding. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel takes on a mix of holiday-themed questions, musical trivia, and literary puzzles, setting a lively and cheerful tone for the evening.Listeners are treated to memorable discussions about holiday gifts referenced in poetry, famous musical compositions, and historical holiday customs. Spalding adds charm with his musical knowledge, while Morley brings his wit to questions involving seasonal songs and classic poems. Join in for an episode filled with laughter, nostalgia, and the warm spirit of the holidays as the experts take on America’s holiday-inspired trivia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  22. December 12, 1939: Age of Wisdom and Curious Careers with Walter B. Pitkin

    Dec 12, 2021 · 28 min

    In this December 12, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes special guest Walter B. Pitkin, the educator and psychologist famous for his book Life Begins at Forty. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, Pitkin contributes his insights as the panel tackles questions spanning music, literature, and curious career milestones.The evening’s trivia covers recent news items conveyed through song, humorous “thank you” quotes, and famous historical figures who achieved greatness before the age of 40. Pitkin’s unique perspective on life’s milestones adds charm and wisdom as the panel navigates topics like political ascensions and poetic expressions of gratitude. Tune in for an engaging blend of intellect, humor, and timeless trivia on this classic episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  23. December 5, 1939: Astronomical Books and Historical Puzzles with Henry Pringle and Deems Taylor

    Dec 5, 2021 · 29 min

    In this December 5, 1939, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a session filled with fascinating trivia alongside guests Henry Pringle, Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer, and composer Deems Taylor. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel tackles challenging questions, from naming books with celestial titles to identifying famous figures who held multiple political roles in American history.Pringle and Taylor add wit and insight as the experts discuss literary titles related to the cosmos, historical figures like Theodore Roosevelt, and famous opera characters. Join in for an engaging blend of intellect, humor, and the unique charm of Information Please as the panel takes on stumpers that span literature, history, and music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  24. November 21, 1939: Legal Lingo and Literary Tricks with Moe Berg and J.P. McEvoy

    Nov 21, 2021 · 28 min

    In this November 21, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman presents a challenging round of trivia with returning guests Moe Berg, the multilingual baseball catcher and former lawyer, and J.P. McEvoy, the acclaimed humorist and screenwriter. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, Berg and McEvoy tackle questions that span legal terminology, literary initials, and romantic poetry.Berg’s background in law brings an edge to questions on courtroom phrases, while McEvoy adds wit with his knowledge of classic movie trivia and humorous anecdotes. The panel wrestles with everything from famous initials like W.C. Fields to memorable poetic lines involving kisses and cows. Tune in for a delightful mix of intellect, humor, and surprises as the experts attempt to outwit America’s cleverest listeners on this classic episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  25. November 14, 1939: Postal Trivia and Dark Horse Candidates with James Farley

    Nov 14, 2021 · 28 min

    In this November 14, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings together a unique panel featuring the U.S. Postmaster General, James Farley, alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. This lively session delves into a wide array of questions, from historical vice presidents and songs expressing neutrality to tales of famous fugitives and postage stamp figures.Farley shares his insights on American politics, recounting “dark horse” presidential nominees and revealing details about the selection of faces for postage stamps. The panel also faces playful questions on pop culture and music, with Levant’s musical knowledge adding a special flair. Join in for a fun-filled episode rich in history, political trivia, and the trademark humor of Information Please. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.