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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, 1939: Hobbies, Presidents, and Poetic Puzzles with Marquis James and Christopher Morley

    Nov 7, 2021 · 30 min

    In this November 7, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings together a dynamic panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, alongside two esteemed guests: Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Marquis James and novelist Christopher Morley. The panel faces a series of fascinating questions, covering topics from identifying American presidents who were once store clerks to recognizing hobbies associated with obscure terms and puzzling over lines from famous poems.Morley and James bring wit and insight as they join the panel in recalling poetic lines, distinguishing famous marches in American history, and sharing stories of presidents’ early occupations. Tune in for an episode filled with lively banter, historical knowledge, and poetic charm, as the experts attempt to match wits with listeners in this engaging and memorable session of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. October 31, 1939: Nursery Rhymes and Naval Trivia with Carl Sandburg

    Oct 31, 2021 · 29 min

    In this Halloween episode of Information Please, aired on October 31, 1939, Clifton Fadiman hosts a memorable session featuring the distinguished poet Carl Sandburg. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, Sandburg brings his poetic flair and wit to the evening’s questions, adding depth and charm to the show.The panel tackles an array of intriguing topics, from nursery rhymes set to surprising tunes and naval mottos to literary characters with names inspired by flowers. Sandburg’s insights and humor shine as he navigates whimsical poetry challenges and historical trivia. Tune in for a delightful mix of intellect and laughter, as the panel celebrates Halloween with charm, wit, and timeless trivia on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. October 24, 1939: Poetic Puzzles and Naval Commands with Deems Taylor and Louis Untermeyer

    Oct 24, 2021 · 29 min

    In this October 24, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes music critic and composer Deems Taylor alongside poet and anthologist Louis Untermeyer. Joining regulars John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams, the panel takes on a diverse mix of questions covering everything from naval commands and courtroom phrases to poetic associations with occupations.Taylor’s musical expertise and Untermeyer’s literary insights bring depth to the episode as the panel tackles imaginative queries about famous lines linked to bartenders and undertakers, and discusses operas devoid of tenors and sopranos. With lively humor and clever banter, this episode showcases the wit and intelligence that defines Information Please. Join us for an evening filled with intellectual charm, poetic puzzles, and spontaneous fun! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. October 17, 1939: Translations, Geography, and Sports Trivia with Moe Berg

    Oct 17, 2021 · 29 min

    In this October 17, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman is joined by the ever-enigmatic Moe Berg, linguist and former major league catcher known for his intelligence and diverse knowledge. Alongside regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, Berg lends his unique flair to a lively trivia session covering everything from linguistic translations to world geography and classic sports trivia.Berg showcases his sharp wit as the panel tackles questions involving literal name translations, geographical locations matched to famous musical pieces, and the origins of historical groups. With a blend of humor, intellect, and Moe Berg’s distinct charm, this episode is filled with intellectual surprises and laughter. Tune in to test your own knowledge and enjoy the wit that makes Information Please a timeless classic! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. October 10, 1939: Floral Titles and Economic Wit with Christopher Morley and John T. Flynn

    Oct 10, 2021 · 29 min

    In this October 10, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman is joined by two renowned guests: the witty novelist Christopher Morley, author of Kitty Foyle, and John T. Flynn, economic commentator and biographer of John D. Rockefeller. Regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran complete the lively panel, tackling a range of questions that mix literary knowledge with clever economic references.The experts face challenges like identifying flowers in book titles, discussing historical Shakespearean lines, and recognizing famous economists with unique personal stories. With Morley’s humor and Flynn’s sharp economic insights, the episode offers an enjoyable blend of literature, humor, and wit. Tune in to test your knowledge on everything from famous literary flowers to clever quotes from Shakespeare in this engaging and intellectual episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. October 3, 1939: Literary Stumpers and American Traditions with C. Mildred Thompson

    Oct 4, 2021 · 29 min

    In this October 3, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes the esteemed C. Mildred Thompson, Dean of Vassar College and expert in post-Civil War American history. Alongside regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, Thompson brings her depth of knowledge to a session that explores topics from American collegiate customs to famous pseudonyms in literature.The panel faces unique questions, such as the reasoning behind Vassar College’s original clothing rules and the peculiar identities of famous “Smiths” in history. Thompson’s academic insights shine as the team discusses literary figures, American education traditions, and historic women who broke social conventions. Tune in for a lively mix of intellectual discussion, humor, and the classic wit that defines Information Please, as the experts compete to answer America’s trickiest questions! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. September 26, 1939: Historical Mysteries and Detective Challenges with Rex Stout and Carl Van Doren

    Sep 27, 2021 · 29 min

    In this September 26, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings together a fascinating panel featuring renowned author Rex Stout, creator of the Nero Wolfe detective series, and respected literary critic Carl Van Doren. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, Stout and Van Doren tackle a mix of historical mysteries and literary challenges that range from colonial foods used by Native Americans to famous fictional detectives.With Stout’s detective expertise and Van Doren’s literary insights, the panel faces questions about mystery novels, American history, and unexpected etymologies. They navigate topics like famous detectives who team up with family members, vegetables native to the Americas, and surprising etymological origins of familiar words. Tune in for an evening filled with intellectual curiosity, wit, and the unique charm of Information Please, as the experts aim to avoid being stumped and claim victory over America’s trickiest trivia questions! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. September 19, 1939: Musical Instruments and Fictional Firsts with P. Hal Sims

    Sep 20, 2021 · 29 min

    In this lively September 19, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman is joined by bridge expert and games enthusiast P. Hal Sims, alongside regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. The evening’s trivia takes the panel through a whirlwind of topics, from fictional characters who play musical instruments to unique sporting terms and iconic fashion references in popular songs.Sims brings his knowledge of games and strategy, adding depth as the panel tackles questions involving chess, golf, and bowling terminology. The experts also explore literary figures known for their musical talents, identifying characters from classic novels and plays who took up the violin, tuba, and saxophone. Join us for a captivating blend of humor, music, and intellectual challenge as Information Please presents another memorable night of trivia! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  9. September 12, 1939: Sporting Champions and Scientific Curiosities with Alice Marble and Bernard Jaffe

    Sep 13, 2021 · 28 min

    In this September 12, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads a trivia-filled evening featuring tennis champion Alice Marble and science writer Bernard Jaffe. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel dives into questions spanning the worlds of sports, literature, and science, from identifying famous tennis strokes to explaining elemental mixtures.Marble’s athletic insight shines as she discusses the techniques of tennis greats, while Jaffe offers his scientific expertise on curious mixtures and natural phenomena. The panel faces lively challenges such as recognizing “fat” characters in literature and recalling famous fictional rescues. Join in for an entertaining blend of wit, knowledge, and humor in this classic episode where sports and science collide! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  10. September 5, 1939: Musical Mix-Ups and Historical Hiccups with Raymond Gram Swing

    Sep 6, 2021 · 28 min

    In this September 5, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes esteemed news commentator Raymond Gram Swing as the guest of honor, joining regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. Together, the panel tackles an engaging array of questions that range from popular songs with distressing titles to historical events marked by exact times and dates.Swing’s insight into current events adds a serious yet fascinating edge as the panel navigates questions about the significance of certain times in the escalating European crisis. Levant lightens the mood by answering musical challenges, while Kieran and Adams bring their usual wit to literary references and poetic riddles. Tune in for an evening of humor, history, and a touch of musical mastery in this thought-provoking and entertaining episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  11. August 29, 1939: Lexicon Lingo and Literary Riddles with Wilfred Funk and Rex Stout

    Aug 30, 2021 · 29 min

    In this August 29, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads an evening filled with wit and wordplay. The distinguished guests include Wilfred Funk, lexicographer and publisher, and Rex Stout, famed author of the Nero Wolfe mysteries. Regulars John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams join the fun as the panel takes on questions about hybrid fruits, memorable quotes, and characters in detective fiction.Funk’s lexicon expertise and Stout’s storytelling prowess shine through as the panel attempts to answer questions involving literary quotations, mythical roles, and quirky etymologies. With topics that span classical mythology, vegetable hybrids, and famous Sherlock Holmes cases, this episode is a delightful showcase of humor and intellectual charm. Tune in for an evening where words come to life and every answer is an adventure! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  12. August 22, 1939: Musical Clues and Famous First Jobs with H. Napier Moore

    Aug 23, 2021 · 29 min

    In this August 22, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads a fascinating evening of trivia with guest panelist H. Napier Moore, editor of Maclean’s magazine, alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. Together, they tackle a range of intriguing questions, from famous first jobs and nursery rhyme origins to identifying musical pieces by sound effects, making for an engaging quiz full of surprising challenges.Moore’s Canadian insights add a unique flavor to the discussions, as the panel navigates topics like the early careers of historical figures, catchy popular songs, and classical compositions inspired by everyday sounds. With witty exchanges and spontaneous laughter, this episode is a delightful mix of knowledge, humor, and the charm of 1930s radio. Tune in for a memorable session of Information Please, where intellectual curiosity and playful banter create an unforgettable evening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  13. August 1, 1939: Slangy Sayings and Literary Tests with Russell Crouse and James Kieran

    Aug 2, 2021 · 29 min

    In this August 1, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman invites a lively panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by special guests Russell Crouse, the celebrated Broadway playwright, and James Kieran, the press secretary to the Mayor of New York and John Kieran’s brother. Together, they tackle quirky and clever questions involving common slang phrases, famous house addresses in literature, and historical tests of character.Crouse and the Kierans add humor and insight as the panel faces challenges such as identifying addresses like 221-B Baker Street and recalling iconic moments from folklore and history. With witty banter and competitive spirit between the brothers, this episode delivers a mix of humor, intellect, and spontaneous charm. Tune in for a delightful evening as the experts match wits on everything from slangy sayings to literary and historical trivia! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  14. July 25, 1939: Maverick Spirits and Mythical Rescues with Maury Maverick

    Jul 26, 2021 · 29 min

    In this July 25, 1939, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a lively quiz session featuring Maury Maverick, the outspoken mayor of San Antonio and a defender of American individualism. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, Maverick brings his colorful personality and knowledge of American history to the panel, sharing the origins of the term “maverick” and stories of his family’s storied past.The experts tackle a variety of questions, from identifying characters in folklore who were rescued by animals to exploring American constitutional law and historical trivia. With humor and wit, the panel dives into topics like the origin of patriotic phrases, real and fictional characters known for their independence, and mythical rescues involving geese, mice, and ravens. Join in for a delightful blend of trivia, history, and humor as Maverick and the panelists showcase the charm and intellect that make Information Please a beloved classic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  15. July 18, 1939: Piranhas, Literary Blunders, and Musical Memories with William Beebe and Clarence Budington Kelland

    Jul 19, 2021 · 29 min

    In this exciting July 18, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings together an eclectic panel featuring renowned naturalist William Beebe and popular novelist Clarence Budington Kelland. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, this episode dives into questions that range from the mysteries of South American piranhas and quirky American slang to memorable scenes in classic literature and music.Beebe captivates the audience with insights into wildlife, explaining everything from the anatomy of a stingray to the unexpected dangers lurking in South American waters. Meanwhile, Kelland’s wit and storytelling charm shine through as the panel tackles sports trivia, American folklore, and famous musical theater songs. Join in for an evening filled with wit, curiosity, and laughter as the experts take on America’s toughest trivia questions in this delightful episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  16. July 11, 1939: Political Lineages and Famous Fictional Characters with Elliott Roosevelt

    Jul 12, 2021 · 29 min

    In this July 11, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes Elliott Roosevelt, son of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, to join the panel of experts. Alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, Roosevelt brings his unique perspective as the team tackles a diverse range of questions, from identifying historical figures by their first names to recalling memorable fictional characters and classic American idioms.Roosevelt’s insights blend with the wit of the panel as they navigate topics like notable political figures, curious expressions involving measurements, and musical trivia. Join in for a lively evening filled with humor, historical knowledge, and the ever-entertaining mix of trivia and banter that defines Information Please. A classic episode showcasing the charm and intellect of 1930s radio! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  17. July 4, 1939: Literary Puzzles and Celebratory Rhythms with Lillian Gish and Marcus Duffield

    Jul 5, 2021 · 29 min

    In this special Independence Day episode of Information Please, aired on July 4, 1939, host Clifton Fadiman leads a spirited session with panel regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by guest panelists actress Lillian Gish and journalist Marcus Duffield. Together, they take on an eclectic mix of questions that test their knowledge of literary titles, historical events, and famous movie scenes from the silent era.Gish brings her Hollywood charm, especially as the panel reminisces about classic film moments, while Duffield’s journalistic wit shines through historical and literary queries. The experts tackle challenging riddles involving famous initials, memorable silent movie scenes, and unique cultural expressions associated with the holiday. Join in for an engaging and humorous session as the panel celebrates the Fourth of July with trivia, quick wit, and a touch of nostalgic charm! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  18. June 27, 1939: Literary Lovers and Sports Formations with Wilbur Cross

    Jun 28, 2021 · 28 min

    In this June 27, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman invites former Connecticut Governor and esteemed scholar Wilbur Cross to join regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. Together, they dive into a series of challenging and entertaining questions, exploring topics from historical literary romances to strategic formations in sports.Cross’s academic insight shines as the panel tackles questions about famous lovers in history, the precise lineup of players in various sports, and literary plots that involve characters with intriguing backstories. From folklore-inspired queries to testing the panel’s knowledge on both poetry and pool games, this episode combines intellectual depth with lively banter. Join us for an enjoyable evening of trivia that covers literature, sports, and the unique charm of 1930s radio! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  19. June 13, 1939: Tennis Trivia and Famous Exterminators with Helen Wills Moody

    Jun 14, 2021 · 29 min

    In this June 13, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes the multi-talented Helen Wills Moody, tennis legend and author, as the evening’s special guest. With regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant on board, the panel tackles an entertaining range of topics, from famous exterminators in folklore to tennis terminology with humorous twists.Moody brings her charm and knowledge to a series of quirky questions, including identifying legendary figures who eradicated various pests and matching tennis terms to unexpected themes. The panel also dives into musical compositions featuring dance themes, historical symbols like the Prince of Wales’ motto, and even navigates humorous translations of familiar phrases. Join in for a delightful mix of intellect, wit, and lighthearted banter, as Information Please brings you an engaging evening of classic trivia and fun! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  20. May 30, 1939: Nursery Rhymes and Legal Terms with Stanley Walker

    May 31, 2021 · 29 min

    On May 30, 1939, Information Please brings an entertaining mix of wit and trivia as Clifton Fadiman moderates a session with regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. Joining them is Stanley Walker, editor of the Philadelphia Public Ledger and author of The Nightclub Era. This episode’s questions explore the depths of nursery rhymes, test the panel’s knowledge of legal terminology, and challenge them with clever word associations.The experts navigate quirky riddles about fictional fishermen, iconic historical headlines, and classic American songs about early morning adventures. With Walker’s journalistic flair and Levant’s humor, the panel’s responses are as insightful as they are amusing. Join in for a delightful session of laughter and learning as the experts tackle America’s toughest trivia on everything from law to literature! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  21. May 23, 1939: Advertising Slogans and Poetic Quizzes with Bernard Jaffe and Clarence Budington Kelland

    May 24, 2021 · 29 min

    In this May 23, 1939, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a spirited trivia session featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by special guests Bernard Jaffe, author of Crucibles, and popular novelist Clarence Budington Kelland. Together, the panel dives into an array of questions, from nostalgic advertising slogans and historical poetry lines to classic American trivia and clever riddles.The evening’s questions include identifying famous advertising taglines, recalling childhood rhymes, and unraveling poetic stanzas, all while navigating humorous exchanges and occasional stumbles. Jaffe’s scientific insights and Kelland’s storytelling add depth to the panel’s quick wit and repartee. Join us for a fun-filled evening of laughter, nostalgia, and the unique charm of 1930s radio trivia! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  22. May 16, 1939: Pocket Counts and Peculiar Characters with John P. Marquand

    May 17, 2021 · 29 min

    In this engaging May 16, 1939, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a lively quiz session with regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. Joining them is special guest John P. Marquand, celebrated author of The Late George Apley and creator of the iconic Mr. Moto character. The evening features a delightful array of questions, including the unusual number of pockets in a three-piece suit, book titles with terms of endearment, and identifying eccentric characters from literature.Marquand’s literary insight adds depth as the panel tackles questions about classic authors, quirky terms, and obscure animal lifespans. With lively banter and surprising trivia, this episode showcases the wit, humor, and intellect that make Information Please a timeless favorite. Tune in to see if you can match wits with the experts and uncover the fascinating answers to these peculiar queries! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  23. April 25, 1939: Presidential Trivia and Riddles of Poetic Prose with Alice Roosevelt Longworth and Arthur Krock

    Apr 26, 2021 · 28 min

    In this April 25, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes two prestigious guests: Arthur Krock, renowned political journalist, and Alice Roosevelt Longworth, the witty daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt. Joined by regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, this panel takes on an array of engaging topics, from identifying American authors’ pseudonyms and historical political figures to literary mash-ups and whimsical poetry.Longworth’s sharp humor and Krock’s journalistic insights shine as they tackle questions like the significance of hair styles in historical professions and matching nursery rhyme lines with modern cultural references. This episode promises a delightful mix of intellect and wit, with humorous exchanges and unexpected trivia twists. Join us for an entertaining dive into history, literature, and the ever-charming rapport that makes Information Please a timeless favorite! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  24. April 18, 1939: Interrupted Histories and Curious Conquests with H. V. Kaltenborn

    Apr 19, 2021 · 29 min

    In this April 18, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman is joined by the sharp-minded radio commentator H. V. Kaltenborn, along with regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. Together, they delve into an array of challenging questions that span historical interruptions, mythical conquests, and linguistic curiosities.The panel faces tricky tasks like identifying famous interrupted constructions, recalling gate crashers from mythology, and debating the geopolitical allure of regions like Poland and Romania. With Kaltenborn’s expertise in global affairs adding depth, and Levant’s musical interludes offering lighthearted moments, this episode promises an engaging blend of intellect and wit. Join us for a captivating journey through folklore, history, and the lively banter that makes Information Please a timeless radio classic! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  25. April 11, 1939: Mystery Stories and Mythical Gate Crashers with Deems Taylor and Marcus Duffield

    Apr 12, 2021 · 28 min

    In this April 11, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman presents an evening of clever and humorous trivia. This week’s panel features regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by composer and music critic Deems Taylor and journalist Marcus Duffield. Together, they tackle an assortment of quirky questions, from reimagining fairy tales as mystery thrillers to identifying famous gate crashers from mythology and history.Listeners are treated to delightful banter as the panel wrestles with literary riddles, folklore-inspired mysteries, and the origins of unusual words like “pandemonium” and “weird.” Taylor’s musical insights add charm, while Duffield’s wit and quick answers bring energy to the session. Tune in for an engaging mix of mythology, wordplay, and laughter as the experts aim to answer America’s most imaginative questions! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.