Go Fact Yourself

Latest Episodes:

Ep 28: Felicia Day & Elliott Kalan Jan 18, 2019

Show notes

It’s a trivia mix of film, TV and the internet this week on Go Fact Yourself with two of the creative forces behind Netlfix's “Mystery Science Theater 3000!”

Elliot Kalan is a newly published children’s author of the book Horse Meets Dog. He’s also the host of fellow Maximum Fun podcast The Flop House. The show is all about discussing bad movies, but Elliott’s made sure that that never impacts his love of great films… even if he can only watch them on his iPad these days.

Facing off against Elliott is actress Felicia Day. She’s most known for creating and starring in the online series The Guild. She’ll tell us all about some of her favorite topics and explain some of things she’s learned as she navigates motherhood.

In this episode, about 90’s sitcoms, classic films and the everlasting star-power of dinosaurs.

What’s the difference: Intention and Prevention

What’s the difference between “purposely” and “purposefully”?

What’s the difference between “cease” and “desist”?

Areas of Expertise

Elliott Kalan: Dinosaurs, Alfred Hitchcock, and Abraham Lincoln.

Felicia Day: The TV show “Dharma and Greg”, the board game “Settlers of Catan,” and baking cookies.

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten Helen Hong Elliott Kalan Felicia Day

With guest experts:

Veronica Cartwright, actress who has had roles in films like Alien and The Birds.

Alan Rachins, actor who’s had roles in series such as “L.A. Law” and “Dharma and Greg.”

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show was recorded at The Angel City Brewery in Los Angeles.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green. Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher. The show is edited by Julian Burrell.

Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joingofact

Ep. 27: Cara Santa Maria & Glen Weldon Jan 04, 2019

Show notes

Happy National Trivia Day! Let’s celebrate with a collision of journalists who also host podcasts!

Cara Santa Maria is the host of the podcast Talk Nerdy with Cara Santa Maria. She’s also a science communicator and there’s a chance that her proficiency in STEM will lead her to victory in this trivia battle.

Her opponent is Glen Weldon, panelist on NPR’s Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast. He’s written the book on Batman and Superman (literally) but will that knowledge be enough to guide him to victory?

In this episode, we’ll learn about fashion, drag queens and art with deceased creatures.

What’s the difference: Top and Bottom

What’s the difference between a shirt that is “button-up” and “button-down”?

What’s the difference between “below” and “under”?

Areas of Expertise

Cara Santa Maria: Hold ‘em poker, the artist Christopher Marley and the Olive Garden menu.

Glen Weldon: Wine tasting, Rupaul’s Drag Race and Catherine O’Hara.

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten Helen Hong Cara Santa Maria Glen Weldon

With guest experts:

Christopher Marley- international artist.

Brian Firkus- actor, singer and embodiment of drag-queen Trixie Mattel.

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show was recorded at The Angel City Brewery in Los Angeles.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green. Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher. The show is edited by Julian Burrell.

Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joingofact

Ep. 26: Lea Thompson & Sandeep Parikh Dec 21, 2018

Show notes

Nerdy media of the past and present collide on this edition of Go Fact Yourself!

Lea Thompson is an actress, perhaps best known for her role in the classic Back to the Future series. But lately, she’s developed a reputation for losing reality TV competitions to such illustrious pop culture fixtures like Cheech Marin, Tommy Chong and Alfonso Ribiero. But she’s ready to end that trend on this show!

Competing against Thompson is Sandeep Parikh, star of the series The Guild. Growing up, he worked really hard to learn about things that would help him fit in and make friends. Luckily, that helped him gain knowledge that could help him win today's game.

In this episode, we’ll learn about classic Hollywood movies, baseball and the color green.

What’s the difference: Green

What’s the difference between “jealous” and “envious”?

What’s the difference between a grove and an orchard?

Areas of Expertise

Sandeep Parikh: The Boston Red Sox, Hindu Mythology, and the film The Princess Bride.

Lea Thompson: Roseville Pottery, designing houses and the film Harold and Maude.

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten Helen Hong Sandeep Parikh Lea Thompson

With guest experts:

Dan Shaughnessy, sports columnist for the Boston Globe.

Ellen Greer, actress who’s appeared in more than 100 projects across movies, television and theater.

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show was recorded at The Angel City Brewery in Los Angeles.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher The show is edited by Julian Burrell.

Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joingofact

Ep. 25: Wil Wheaton & Anne Wheaton Dec 07, 2018

Show notes

It’s the very first couple-edition of Go Fact Yourself!

Wil Wheaton is an actor, writer and geek-culture legend. He’s been in everything from Star Trek: The Next Generation where he starred as the character Wesley Crusher, to his YouTube series TableTop. He’s glad to come onto the show and answer trivia questions about his interests; but he also is eager to prove that he knows these subjects well enough to stump the hosts too.

Competing against Wil is Anne Wheaton, author of the children’s book Piggy and Pug, which is as adorable as the title makes it sound. The book also reflects her background as an animal lover, which has shown in her professional life as well as her personal one. Anne also happens to be married to Wil.

In this episode, we’ll learn about secrets from classic arcade games, musical theater and how Anne and Wil met and fell in love.

What’s the difference: High or Low

What’s the difference between “altitude” and “elevation”?

What’s the difference between “less” and “fewer”?

Areas of Expertise

Anne Wheaton: 1980’s Arcade games, Atari 2600 video-games and puns.

Wil Wheaton: 1980’s Arcade games, Atari 2600 and baking sourdough bread.

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten Helen Hong Wil Wheaton Anne Wheaton

With guest experts:

Gene Lewin, owner of Vintage Arcade Superstore.

Owen Rubin, game designer who helped make classic arcade games for Atari.

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show was recorded at The Angel City Brewery in Los Angeles.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher The show is edited by Julian Burrell.

Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joingofact

Ep 24: Jordan Morris & Alison Rosen Nov 16, 2018

Show notes

Go Fact Yourself has returned to Los Angeles!

Jordan Morris is a podcasting savant. For years he has endeared himself to listeners as one of the hosts of the Max Fun podcast Jordan, Jesse Go!. But these days, he’s getting more attention for the sci-fi/comedy show Bubble, which wrapped up its initial season (spoiler alert: he’s going to tease the future of the series in this episode).

Completing our pair of podcasting guests is Alison Rosen, host of Alison Rosen is Your New Best Friend. She’s also the author of the book Tropical Attire Encouraged (and Other Phrases That Scare Me). She’s got a reputation of being very funny in her work, but also very warm in a way that encourages people to share personal insights with her. But that’s not what makes her successful. What is? Well… she’ll explain

In this episode, we’ll learn about the Harlem Globetrotters, sweet treats and prehistoric poop.

What’s the difference: Feast or Famine

What’s the difference between “ice cream” and “gelato”?

What’s the difference between “to deny” and “to deprive” when referring to food?

Areas of Expertise

Jordan Morris: The Simpsons, the La Brea Tar Pits, and the 90’s third-wave ska revival.

Alison Rosen: In vitro fertilization, The Facts of Life, and analogies.

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten Helen Hong Jordan Morris Alison Rosen

With guest experts:

Dr. Mairin Balisi, National Science Foundation postdoctoral research fellow.

Gloria Loring, singer and actress.

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show was recorded at The Angel City Brewery in Los Angeles.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher The show is edited by Julian Burrell.

Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joingofact

Ep. 23: Ophira Eisenberg & Charles Busch Nov 02, 2018

Show notes

It's another episode Go Fact Yourself recorded in New York!

Ophira Eisenberg is used to being on trivia shows as the host of NPR’s Ask Me Another. But here’s the thing: she doesn’t consider herself a trivia buff. Like, at all. That said, she’s chosen topics that she thoroughly understands… and most of them involve being a proud Canadian.

Charles Busch is a Tony-nominated actor, playwright, and drag legend. He’s the creator of the film and play Die, Mommie, Die!, which will soon be produced as a radio show. Even though he’s spent most of his professional career performing in women’s clothing, he still finds some of the clothes a bit uncomfortable… but that’s one of the best parts of being an actor.

In this episode, we’ll learn about street-building materials, fashion, and the undervalued cuisine of Canada.

What’s the difference: The streets of New York

What’s the difference between “cement” and “concrete”?

What’s the difference between a “freeway” and a “highway”?

Areas of Expertise:

Ophira Eisenberg: Canadian Geography, Canadian food, and the film Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Charles Bush: Women’s fashion of 1930’s, The film Rosemary’s Baby, and Bette Davis

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten Helen Hong Ophira Eisenberg Charles Busch

With guest experts:

Marcel Simoneau, owner of the Brooklyn-based Canadian restaurant Up North.

Eugenia Paulicelli, professor and author of the book Fashion under Fascism.

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show was recorded at Caveat in New York City.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher The show is edited by Julian Burrell.

Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joingofact

Ep 22: Stacy London & Scott Rogowsky Oct 19, 2018

Show notes

It's the first episode of Go Fact Yourself recorded in New York!

Fashion stylist Stacy London is a New York Times Bestselling author. And for ten seasons, she was best known as the host of What Not to Wear on TLC. And while she still prides herself on being a fashionista, she insists her advice for others… but Helen still remembers when that wasn’t the case.

Scott Rogowsky can be seen on the popular app-based trivia gameshow HQ. He’s also known for the theater talk show Running Late with Scott Rogowsky. It’s all helped him reach a level of fame that allowed him to fulfill a lifelong dream: play in the Celebrity softball game where he got to pitch against Shaquille O’Neil.

In this episode, we’ll learn about the subtleties of cocktail ingredients, learn about how to have a proper “mid-life renaissance” and why sweet desserts are superior to savory ones.

What’s the difference?

What’s the difference between “Manhattan” and an “Old-fashioned” cocktail?

What’s the difference between “Manhattan” and “New England” clam chowder?

Areas of Expertise

Stacy London: The best desserts in New York City, the film Tootsie and French existentialism.

Scott Rogowsky: The show Seinfeld, Woody Allen movies and minor league baseball teams.

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten Helen Hong Stacy London Scott Rogowsky

With guest experts:

Christa LiTrenta, director of culinary training for Magnolia Bakery.

Dick Cavett, actor and broadcasting legend.

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show is recorded at Caveat in New York City.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher The show is edited by Julian Burrell.

Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joingofact

Ep 21: Maria Bamford & Grant Imahara Oct 05, 2018

Show notes

Maria Bamford is a comedian, and star of the Netflix series Lady Dynamite. She’s normally not one for small talk, but this podcast has just the right amount of organized conversation to make her feel comfortable.

Grant Imahara is a former member of the B-Team on Mythbusters, and can currently be seen on Netflix’s White Rabbit Project. He’s a HUGE robotics fan. Why? Two words: Star Wars.

In this episode, we’ll get an answer to what happens when a bull is actually let loose in a china shop and learn about the robots Grant has created--including a BB-8 that he has at his shop.

What’s the difference?

What’s the difference between “magma” and a “lava”?

What’s the difference between “baking” and “roasting?”

Areas of Expertise

Maria Bamford: 12 step programs, self-help and pug aging.

Grant Imahara: Star Trek, X-Men comics and “La Di Da Di” by Doug E. Fresh.

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten Helen Hong Grant Imahara Maria Bamford

With guest experts:

Dr. Christine Dresser, pug breeder and health liason for the Pug Dog Club of America.

Gabriel Koerner, digital effects artist who appeared in the documentaries Trekkies and Trekkies 2.

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show is recorded at the Angel City Brewery in downtown Los Angeles.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green David McKeever is the Live Sound Engineer. Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher The show is edited by Julian Burrell.

Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joingofact

Ep. 20: Matt Besser & Lyric Lewis Sep 21, 2018

Show notes

Matt Besser is a comedian, actor, writer, director and founding member of The Upright Citizens Brigade. He also hosts the weekly podcast improv4humans. He tells J. Keith about the two word prompts he’s banned at shows (hint: one’s a type of fruit and the other is a type of animal), and how it came about that he’s featured on his very own Topps baseball card.

Lyric Lewis is an actress and Groundlings Theater performer who’s perhaps best known for her role as Stef on NBC’s A.P. Bio. You may also recognize Lyric from Comedy Central’s Drunk History, and she tells us about an upcoming episode she did about “Cleopatra’s punk ass little sister”.

In this episode, we’ll learn about how Matt adapted the visual format of improv to an audio-only medium, how Lyric used astrology to sort out potential dating prospects, and why Matt claims his memory is spotty, even though Lyric has a hard time believing him.

What’s the difference?

What’s the difference between “damping” and a “dampening”?

What’s the difference between “club soda” and “seltzer?”

Areas of Expertise

Matt Besser: Arkansas cults, Arkansas Razorback football post-1978 and the film Repo Man

Lyric Lewis: The film Jurassic Park, Greek mythology and astrology.

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten Helen Hong Matt Besser Lyric Lewis

With guest experts:

Debby Schriver, an author whose book Whispering in the Daylight: The Children of Tony Alamo Christian Ministries and their Journey to Freedom is about to become a documentary.

Jody Duncan, the author of numerous books about the making of movies.

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show is recorded at the Angel City Brewery in downtown Los Angeles.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green David McKeever is the Live Sound Engineer. Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher The show is edited by Julian Burrell.

Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joingofact

Ep 19: Alison Becker & Glynn Washington Sep 07, 2018

Show notes

Glynn Washington is the host and creator of the public radio show Snap Judgment. Fun fact: He actually got his radio show started by winning a radio contest. Snap Judgment is all about “storytelling with a beat,” and, with a little help from Helen Hong, Glynn will explain why.

Alison Becker is an actress who’s perhaps best known for playing Shauna Malwae-Tweep on Parks and Recreation (people still recognize her for it to this day). She’s also the star of the Max Fun Podcast Bubble.

In this episode, we’ll learn about Glynn’s attitude towards producing quality stories, why puppets are a perfect way to combat social justice issues and Alison’s amazing moment where she made out with Jon Bon Jovi, one of her musical heroes.

What’s the difference? What’s the difference between a “lake” and a “pond”?

What’s the difference between an “arrowsmith” and a “fletcher?”

Areas of Expertise Glynn Washington: The original Star Trek, the New King James Bible, Michael Jackson.

Alison Becker: Divorce ranches, Seinfeld episodes, Bon Jovi.

Appearing in this episode:

J. Keith van Straaten Helen Hong Glynn Washington Alison Becker

With guest experts: Jason E. Hill, Musician, puppeteer and former United Methodist Clergy.

Theresa Iker, teacher of history at Stanford University.

Go Fact Yourself was devised by Jim Newman and J. Keith van Straaten, and produced in collaboration with Maximum Fun. The show is recorded at the Angel City Brewery in downtown Los Angeles.

Theme Song by Jonathan Green David McKeever is the Live Sound Engineer. Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher The show is edited by Julian Burrell.

Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joingofact

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