Live from Pawnee: A Parks and Recreation Fan Rewatch Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Pawnee Spotlight: With Jim O'Heir Oct 10, 2024

You know, true professionals wouldn't hold out until the very end of their podcast series to deliver the "big guns" like this ... but Mark and Allen have never been accused of being true professionals, have they? Oh my gosh ... Talking with Jim O'Heir was truly a pleasure, and an outright blast! He was so easy to talk to, so friendly, that we probably could have gone on for another half hour if we really wanted to. The boys were extremely lucky to get this chance to talk with Jim around mid-September 2024. We got to hear about Jim's upcoming book, how they filmed the 2020 Special, his thoughts on the series finale, and LOTS of other things, including his opinions on Amy Poehler, Nick Offerman, Paul Schneider, Aziz Ansari, Retta, Ben Schwartz, and many others. Please tune in and listen to what ended up being a thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable time with Jerry Gergich himself, Jim O'Heir. Perhaps our best Pawnee Spotlight ever.

S07E12 - One Last Ride (Part 2) Sep 19, 2024

This week Mark and Allen continue (and finish) the Episode where we see what ultimately happens ... to everyone. TO RECAP: As Leslie and the gang face their last day together in Pawnee before everyone goes their own ways, one final little job crosses their path ... fixing a broken swing. Mundane though it may seem, Leslie throws herself into it with her typical level of gusto, convincing the rest of the gang to band together to do this one last task. In the process of going through the necessary motions to get the swing fixed, we do deep dives into every single person, including time jumps into their futures, so we can see how things turned out for them. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will they get the swing fixed? Will everyone get the story they want? Can Mark and Allen make it through this last episode review? How many times will Mark break down? What will the boys do with Robonstantine? Will we ever hear from Constantine and Harvey again? What is WITH that stupid f**king Stargate portal and the post-it notes? Everyone ... hold hands, smile, laugh, and be grateful for the good things in life ... of which this series was certainly one.

S07E12 - One Last Ride (Part 1) Sep 12, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we see what ultimately happens ... to everyone. As Leslie and the gang face their last day together in Pawnee before everyone goes their own ways, one final little job crosses their path ... fixing a broken swing. Mundane though it may seem, Leslie throws herself into it with her typical level of gusto, convincing the rest of the gang to band together to do this one last task. In the process of going through the necessary motions to get the swing fixed, we do deep dives into every single person, including time jumps into their futures, so we can see how things turned out for them. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will they get the swing fixed? Will everyone get the story they want? Can Mark and Allen make it through this last episode review? How many times will Mark break down? What will the boys do with Robonstantine? Will we ever hear from Constantine and Harvey again? What is WITH that stupid f**king Stargate portal and the post-it notes? Everyone, this is it - the series finale. So buckle up, buttercup. It's going to be a bittersweet journey.

Pawnee Spotlight: Jim Meskimen Aug 22, 2024

Once again, Mark and Allen were extremely lucky to spend time with another fantastic guest during a Pawnee Spotlight interview, this time around the middle of May 2024. It was fascinating to talk to Jim about not only his take on the always entertaining M.C. Martin Housely, but also voice overs and impressions, his childhood growing up as the son of Marion Ross, and many other interesting topics. Jim was a tremendously kind and gracious guest on our show, and we are proud to have one of the only occurences in the world of an honest-to-God "Swanson-Off"! If you're confused at this (and you should be), tune in to see what we're talking about! We've said it before, and will say it once more here, this was yet another in a stream of incredible guests we've had the privilege to have on our show ... A fantastic Pawnee Spotlight featuring a tremendous multi-talented guest! We hope you all enjoy this as much as we did.

Visit Jim at https://jimmeskimen.com/ and on Instagram @jimpressions

Season 7 Finale Teaser Aug 15, 2024

Okay, look. Let's face facts. The series is ending. This wonderful, beloved sitcom, full of equal parts laughs and heart, is coming to a close. No doubt, it's a hard thing to contemplate for anyone, but it's just POSSIBLE that one of the guys is having a harder time than the other. Look, you have to understand, this isn't just a silly little hobby ... this gig has generated monetary kickbacks, medical benefits, travel opportunities, being asked to speak at conventions, movie deals ... and that's just the tip of the iceberg. We're not even mentioning all of the other fringe benefits, such as working with world class scientists and engineers to build what is frighteningly close to a sentient AI, or even (slightly flawed) time travel! I mean ... wow. It's so much, that it's ALMOST like we're just making this up. To imagine all that suddenly ending, well ... It's a little scary. But fans of the show deserve the truth. So, ugly or not, we're going to give you a peek into what has been going on, as well as our sincere assurance that the finale review is COMING! We promise. No, really ... we pinky promise. Just like Leslie. And if you can't believe a pinky promise ... well, then I guess the world is in worse shape than we ever imagined. So bear with us just a few more weeks. You won't be disappointed, and it'll be worth the wait. We pinky promise.

S07E11 - Two Funerals Jul 26, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where FINALLY, after all this time ... we get a visual of the often talked about but never seen Mayor Gunderson! Right after the gang tells each other about their immediate plans for the future (Donna & Joe moving to Seattle, April & Andy leaving for DC, Leslie & Ben splitting their time between DC & Pawnee, Jerry retiring again), the gang learns that Mayor Gunderson has passed away. At the memorial, while everyone processes their grief, Ben asks April and Jerry to help find an interim mayor. Together, they begin interviewing several Pawnee citizens as potential candidates for interim Mayor, including such notables as Bobby Newport, Joan Callamezzo, Dr. Saperstein, and Howard "The Douche" Tuttleman. As the day progresses, they realize finding an appropriate candidate that is ABLE to (and WANTS to) do the job is trickier than they thought. Meanwhile, Leslie is somewhat depressed at all the "endings" going on, and desperately wants to find a "beginning" to balance things out. At Mayor Gunderson's funeral, Leslie talks to Tom, who is now back from his trip to New York with Lucy, and Tom tells Leslie how serious the two of them are, and that they've even looked at rings together. Seeing this as a chance for a "beginning", Leslie convinces Tom to go forward with the proposal ASAP, offering to help Tom with such extravagant details as filming a bombastic action movie for the proposal itself, not to mention lots and lots of over-the-top preparations and decorations to celebrate the (assumed) answer of yes. Finally, Ron seems to be rather composed and generally unaffected by the death of Mayor Gunderson. However, at Gunderson's funeral, he learns that Salvatore, his barber for the past four decades, also passed as well, causing him to nearly collapse in shock and grief. Wanting to show his respects, Ron attends Salvatore's funeral, accompanied by Andy and Donna for support. As Ron approaches Salvatore's coffin to say his final goodbyes, we sense Ron's sadness stems from his fear of change in this whirlwind of changes currently happening all around him ... Salvatore was one of the only constants left in Ron's life. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Who seems to be the strongest of all the interviewed candidates for interim mayor? How will Tom's proposal action movie turn out? Does Ron end up crying at Salvatore's funeral? Can Ben make a decision regarding interim mayor given these circumstances? Will Leslie's preparation for the engagement celebration be used as intended, or will it go to waste? Will Ron find a way to process his grief? What actually HAPPENS to the office of interim mayor? Does Tom end up proposing to Lucy, and if so ... what is her answer? Can Donna and Andy help Ron figure out who his next barber will be? Loyal viewers, we are winding down to the VERY, VERY end of this fantastic series! Can this episode possibly live up to the expectations of its fans? Just how big will the guest star list be? Do we actually consider the Parks and Recreation 2020 Special a "canon" episode in the series? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor "Hair by Typhoon."

S07E10 - The Johnny Karate Super Awesome Musical Explosion Show Jul 02, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Andy and Ben are knighted! This is an episode that nearly defies description, and is unlike ANY other episode in the entire series ... it truly stands alone. Things get very meta as we actually watch an entire show within a show ... specifically, the final episode of Andy's "Johnny Karate" show! At the start of the show, we learn that Andy ... er, I mean, Johnny Karate ... had his guitar stolen! This is very bad, as this is what he uses to sing both The Welcome Song and The Good-bye Song. With the assistance of Burt Macklin, Carpenter Ron (Ron Swanson), Professor Smartbrain (Ben Wyatt), Mailman Barry (Jerry), Leslie, and a slew of others, Andy (I mean, Johnny Karate) participates in various skits, demonstrates the Five Karate Moves to Success, and goes on a hunt to try and find his stolen guitar, so that he can sing The Goodbye Song and bring his final episode to a successful close. Meanwhile, as all this craziness is happening, we see that April seems somewhat tinged with sadness, which becomes more and more obvious as the show goes on. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Johnny Karate ever get his guitar back? Does Carpenter Ron end up giving Andy a hug? Can Professor Smartbrain find a way to counter the almighty Boring Buzzer? Why is April so sad, and what can Andy do to help? And in general ... what the **** is going on with this episode? Loyal podcast viewers, this might be the very definition of "weird but wonderful". We guarantee it's like nothing you've ever seen before. Are we full of it? Will this show bomb, or will we give it a perfect 10? Stay tuned to find out!

Pawnee Spotlight: Mara Marini Jun 12, 2024

Mark and Allen were once again very lucky to spend time with another great person during a Pawnee Spotlight interview, this time near the end of March 2024. It was fascinating to talk to the person behind Brandi Maxxxx, and a joy to discover what a total gem she is! Nice, funny, talented, easy to talk to ... who could ask for more? Yet another in a stream of incredible guests we've had the privilege to have on our show.
Join us as Mara talks about being Canadian, her lifelong love of acting and her experiences on Parks and Recreation, Schitt's Creek, and much much more! This was a great Pawnee Spotlight from an even greater guest! We hope you all get as much out of this interview as we did.

S07E09 - Pie-Mary May 15, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Ron first learns April and Andy will be moving away to Washington DC! With the Harvest Festival once again in full swing, Ben's busy congressional campaign continues, and he and Leslie make the call to skip a few Festival-related things, one of which is the "Pie-Mary", a Southern Indiana tradition where the wives of congressional candidates face off in a pie-baking contest ... something which Leslie would have refused to participate in anyway due to its antiquated and retrogressive nature. Unfortunately, several reporters pounce on this, which, combined with the yellow journalism of Mike Patterson, quickly makes this a point of controversy. Not wanting to make things harder for Ben, Leslie decides to reverse her position and participate in the Pie-Mary ... but unfortunately, THIS gets the attention of the Indiana Organization of Women, who threaten to protest both Leslie and Ben at the event. Scrambling to figure out the right move, Ben comes up with an idea that would sidestep the controversy, refocus the campaign on the candidate, and flip the antiquated tradition on its head ... HE'S going to enter the Pie-Mary instead of Leslie. Meanwhile, April informs Ron that she is about to move to Washington with Andy to take on a new job. Ron tells her that she has to return the key to his house. April realises that she has changed the hiding place of the key, and that she left a trail of clues, the first being 4 human teeth and a Twilight ticket stub. She and Andy tell Ron, but Ron is very excited to solve this mystery. They first visit Donna, who informs them that she and April watched that movie together years ago, when April removed her wisdom teeth. Donna also informs them that April also visited the shoeshine stand that day. The trio runs to the shoeshine stand, only to find that it was removed during the remodeling of the city hall. Finally, during the search for Ron's key, Andy finds a small brown box where April used to hide things outside in the City Hall courtyard. The box did NOT contain Ron's key, but it DID contain Jerry's wedding ring that he lost down the sewer grate 6 years ago. Jerry is overjoyed to have it again, but then in typical Jerry Gergich fashion ... drops it in the sewer grate ... AGAIN. As Jerry attempts to fish the ring out, Donna notices him, and chooses to stay with him and keep him company. Donna and Jerry enjoy each other's company, reminiscing with each other about the old days. As Jerry ends up losing more and more things down the grate, Donna keeps things light by laughing about it and ordering them dinner. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Does Ben have any ideas about redefining what a pie is? Are there more clues to find, or is this a dead end? How does Donna feel about hanging out with Jerry all day? Can Ben entering the Pie-Mary instead of Leslie prevent the IoW from protesting? Will Ron ever get his key back? Does Jerry get an earful when he returns home? Will any other protestors rise up to complain about anything political or pie related? Will April ever get satisfying closure from Ron? Will Jerry ever get his wedding ring back? Loyal viewers, this looks like a great episode with a lot of nice callbacks, but will it live up to the hype? Could it be a perfect 10? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor ... The Calzone Zone.

S07E08 - Ms. Ludgate-Dwyer Goes to Washington May 02, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we actually meet one of Ron's brothers in person! Leslie and April are headed to Washington D.C. to convince a bunch of senators to support the National Parks. They've prepped, and Leslie is excited, convinced that April will show how thorough and hardworking she truly is. However, April is quietly freaking out about having to break it to Leslie that bureaucracy is not her calling ... as a friend, Leslie is loyal, thoughtful, and caring to a fault, but she's also stubborn and thoroughly convinced she knows what's best, not only for herself, but for literally everyone around her. As Leslie, April, and teammate Randy have meeting after meeting with senators, it seems like things are going well ... They're getting decent responses from senators, and during a one-on-one walk with Randy, Leslie is even offered a promotion to the position of Deputy Director of Operations and Interior. Despite all this, we see April just getting more and more anxious about telling Leslie the truth. Finally, while sitting with Leslie and listening to her news about the offered promotion, April finally gives in to her anxieties and blurts out that she wants to quit the National Parks Service. Meanwhile, knowing April is unhappy with her current job situation, Andy waits until she is gone on her trip to D.C. (see the A-Story above), then reaches out to Ben to brainstorm some new jobs April could pursue. Their first stop is meeting with Ron at the Very Good Building and Development company, Ron tries his best to help, but unfortunately, the routine work available there doesn't quite fit April's need to think creatively. Nevertheless, Ron joins Andy and Ben in trying to find the perfect job for April. Their second stop is a meeting with Barney Varmn at Tilton and Radomski Accounting, who (along with everyone else at the accounting firm) absolutely LOVES Ben. Anyway, Barney tells them Tilton and Radomski is opening a consulting arm, which would involve a lot of creative thinking. The good news? This sounds like it *could* be a good fit for April. The bad news? It's too late, and they aren't taking any more applicants. However, after discussing it, the guys decide they will make one last final attempt to pitch April to Barney. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... How does Leslie take April's news? Who else do the guys get to help with their final pitch to Barney? Does Leslie end up taking the promotion? What secret plan does Andy have to help convince Barney? Will Leslie have to lean on her good friend Madeleine Albright for advice? Do the guys make a successful pitch, and if so, does April end up working for Barney? Can April ever figure out what job she actually wants? Loyal podcast viewers, April's job arc seems to be drawing to a close ... or is it? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor ... the Very Good Building and Development Company.

S07E07 - Donna and Joe Mar 28, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Craig first meets Typhoon! Donna and Joe's wedding is tomorrow! We find Leslie and Ben preparing to leave for the rehearsal dinner that night, only to find Jennifer Barkley at their door. Assuming Jen is once again going to ask her to run for office, Leslie is surprised when instead, Jen turns to Ben and suggests he run for Congress. Although Leslie would love for him to run, Ben is uncertain, so when they arrive at Tom's Bistro for the rehearsal dinner, Leslie suggests he pretend as if he were running to see how it feels, so Ben proceeds to schmooze people, and they both start drinking ... a lot. The next morning Leslie & Ben wake up hungover in their hotel room, and discover Ben left drunk messages for Jennifer where he apparently accepted the offer to run for Congress. Meanwhile, as Craig helps them go over last minute details at the church, Donna asks maid of honor April to keep the Meagles in line at her wedding, as her family loves drama. During the rehearsal dinner, things seem to be going smoothly, as April and Andy manage to wrangle all the trouble-causing Meagles in the kitchen. The next day, as the wedding creeps closer and closer, things seem to be going okay .. as far as we can tell. Finally, at the rehearsal dinner, Tom shares with Ron how much he likes Lucy, and how he could see having a life with her, even marrying her. Later, Ron accidentally tells Lucy some of the things that Tom said. Lucy seems a bit surprised at this, and Tom is very upset with Ron for spilling the beans. At Tom's urging, Ron tries to rectify the situation by talking with Lucy again, but unfortunately his desire to clarify only makes things worse when he tells her Tom wants to marry her, have multiple kids with her, and also, to live on an island with her and their multiple kids. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Ben correct his mistake with Jen Barkley? Can April continue to keep the Meagle drama out of the proceedings? Will Ron ever get to enjoy the rehearsal dinner food? Would Leslie and Ben be able to make a Congressional run work? Does Donna regret the zero-drama policy? Can Tom and Lucy get past this awkward moment in their relationship? Does their babysitter Roz survive the night with their 3 kids? Will Donna and Joe actually get married? What does Tom plan on calling his personal island? Loyal viewers, this might just be the final wedding episode in Parks and Recreation! How will it rank? Could it possibly be better than April and Andy's? Better than Leslie and Ben's? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor ... the Swanson Breakfast-Based Therapy System, or SBBTS (pronounced "sibbits").

S07E06 - Save JJ's Mar 14, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we first learn about Johnny Karate's older, more serious brother, Jonathan Karate! With Pawnee angry at Gryzzl for their invasion of privacy while data mining, Leslie senses weakness, and wants to capitalize on it. Unfortunately, before they can do so, Jessica Wicks makes a live announcement on behalf of the Newport Trust, saying that despite them being upset with Gryzzl, it turns out Gryzzl upped their bid to $125M, and Jessica Wicks folded like a cheap tent, agreeing to sell the land parcel to Gryzzl for a butt-load of cash. Leslie and the gang are crestfallen, and go to JJ's Diner to drown their sorrows in breakfast food. Even this doesn't relieve their stress, as they are all too sadly aware that JJ's will be closing. However, when they learn the main reason for the diner closing - the new landlord, cologne mogul Dennis Feinstein, is not letting JJ renew his lease - Leslie and the gang focus their frustration regarding the lost land parcel towards saving JJ's Diner from extinction. While Leslie organizes a public rally outside of Dennis Feinstein's building with the goal to "Save JJ's Diner", Andy and his tiny ninja helpers go upstairs to meet with Dennis Feinstein himself in an attempt to persuade him to reconsider. Surprisingly, after Dennis sees the amount of people gathered outside his building, he agrees to come down and address the crowd. Meanwhile, Tom surprises Donna during a routine cake tasting for her wedding with a "Treat Yo Self" day-trip to Beverly Hills. Donna is overjoyed and immediately accepts. As they prepare to take off for their day-trip, Tom awkwardly asks Lucy to accompany him to Donna's wedding, but leaves with the situation up in the air as to where their relationship is at. As Tom and Donna peruse the wonders of Beverly Hills, they splurge on many extravagant items while enjoying each other's company, as is apropos for a "Treat Yo Self" day. However, despite them having a good time, Donna can tell Tom is a bit distracted with the Lucy situation. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... What does Dennis Feinstein say to the protestors? What is Donna's "Treat Yo Self" gift to Tom? Can Andy and his ninja helpers do anything else to seek justice with Dennis Feinstein? Does Lucy end up going to Donna's wedding as Tom's plus one? Have Leslie and the gang really lost the Newport land parcel? Is there any way Leslie can save either the land parcel, JJ's Diner, or both? How fancy does Tom look after having his session with the elbow art salon? Will Ron and Leslie ever work out their handshakes? Loyal podcast viewers, this may be the final hurrah between the Parks gang and Gryzzl ... not to mention the final hurrah for Leslie and Ron's beloved local eatery! Who will win in the end? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor ... the often imitated but never duplicated ... the one, the only, "JJ's Diner" - this time from it's new location!

Pawnee Spotlight: Yvans Jourdain Feb 29, 2024

Celebrate a very rare LEAP DAY with a very rare and awesome Pawnee Spotlight! Once again, Mark and Allen managed to snag a great person to interview, and what an interview it was! We were extremely lucky to have this opportunity to chat with Yvans in early January 2024. Nice, funny, talented, down-to-earth, a great conversationalist, and just a fascinating person overall. We had a blast talking with him, finding out a little more about him, and seeing what he thought of some of our "Parks and Rec" opinions, especially regarding the City Council. What a great interview ... another in a stream of wonderful guests we've had the privilege to invite on our show.
Join us as Mark and Allen discuss Parks, Grey's Anatomy, mental health and more with Yvans (aka Councilman Howser) who had great insights on all of these! This was an amazing Pawnee Spotlight from an amazing guest - what a treat! We hope you enjoy this as much as we did.

S07E05 - Grizzlbox Feb 22, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we learn Craig sees therapist Dr. Richard Nygard, thereby adding him to the known list of Nygardians! Frustrated, but still looking for a way to defeat Gryzzl, Leslie is surprised when she receives a free gift box at her front door via a Gryzzl "SKYPAL" drone. Leslie and Ben find out later that Donna also received a free "Gryzzlbox", however Donna angrily explains her gifts are based on detail that could only have come from private text and phone conversations. When Leslie opens her box and sees the very personal-related artifacts in it, Ben deduces that Gryzzl must be data mining, which is not only an extreme invasion of privacy, but Ben made sure it was illegal via language he chose for the contract between Gryzzl and Pawnee. A public forum discussing the subject reveals that, for once, the town is 100% behind Leslie. Leslie also hopes to sway Ron, but he is harder to convince, maintaining that it's foolish for people to own and use devices that can be tracked in the first place. Donna sets up a private tour of Gryzzl for Leslie and Ben so that they can snoop around and maybe dig up some dirt, but when Leslie asks Gryzzl vice-president Roscoe about data mining, he openly and cheerfully admits to the practice, talking about how great it is for everyone. At this, Leslie challenges Roscoe to debate these questionable practices on TV, convinced that she will not only win, but humiliate Gryzzl as she presents her evidence. Meanwhile, sensing that Tom is trying to distract himself from Lucy visiting her boyfriend in Chicago, Andy presents him with an opportunity to become his agent and help him renegotiate a contract he was offered by station manager Hank Muntak. Not only is Andy not getting paid much, and tasked with lots of extra duties, the contract clearly says that Andy does NOT own the rights to the character "Johnny Karate". Tom agrees to help Andy with his contract, and the pair end up meeting with station manager Hank Muntak, who is a tough negotiator and offers only minor upgrades, which Tom is just not satisfied with. Finally, Craig asks April to deliver a welcome speech to the new potential Parks Department interns, seeing as she got HER start as a Parks intern. After some badgering by Craig, April reluctantly agrees, but is actually hell bent on making sure none of the candidates are successful, believing that her current "aimlessness in life" all started when she was a Parks intern, and if these youngsters become Parks interns, they will essentially be throwing their lives away, just like she did. While talking to the potential interns, April latches on to a girl named Jen, who is VERY much like she was when she first started (i.e. snarky, morbid, unmotivated, no charisma, no passion for the work ahead, etc). Focusing her energy on Jen, April tells her to not go through with the internship. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Roscoe agree to debate Leslie on live TV, and if so, what venue will they use? Can Tom get a better contract for Andy? Does Jen end up quitting the intern program? Is Gryzzl breaking the law, or did Ben miss something in Gryzzl's contract with the city of Pawnee? Does Andy end up owning the rights to the character "Johnny Karate"? Can anyone set April straight regarding how she started and what she's accomplished? Does Ron remain neutral, or does something happen that changes Ron's mind about Gryzzl? What is Tom's secret negotiating weapon? What can April do to make amends to Craig? Loyal viewers, the series may be ending, but things are really heating up! Can Leslie conquer the flying robots? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, "The Perdples Court".

S07E04 - Leslie and Ron Feb 07, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we learn Craig is now head of the Parks department! Leslie and Ron have been trapped together by the gang in their old stomping grounds, the Parks Department. The gang refuses to let them out until [a] they work out their differences, or [b] 8:00 am the next morning is here. Neither wants to be alone with the other for 10 hours, but are unable to escape. Leslie proposes they simply wait a few minutes, turn on the baby monitor Ben left for them, LIE to him that they made up, and wait for Ben to come release them. Unfortunately, the two cannot agree on what their fake apology should sound like, and Leslie ends up smashing the baby monitor on the ground, destroying their only means of an early exit. Ron chooses to sit in silence while Leslie pesters him to get him to talk. He eventually can't take any more of Leslie's nonsense, and agrees to speak with her for three minutes. Leslie uses a whiteboard to draw a timeline including a number of key events that may have contributed to the demise of her friendship with Ron, culminating in the infamous "Morningstar" incident. It is revealed that Morningstar was a luxury apartment complex built by Ron's company, positioned adjacent to Leslie's park, Pawnee Commons. Leslie was furious with Ron for not telling her in advance about the plans, especially since it included the removal of many surrounding houses, including Ann's old house. Ron tells Leslie, "that's not the whole story" ... but then Leslie's three minutes is up, Ron goes into his old office, closes the door. As a result of Ron's unwillingness to converse, Leslie begins quizzing him directly outside his office. Ron eventually has enough and commits to using excessive measures to escape. He finds his old "partially defused" claymore mine that Leslie gave him 10 years ago, but is disappointed to discover that what he always thought was an actual landmine was merely a gimmick that Leslie bought as an anniversary gift for being Parks Director for five years—she had bought the empty shell online and filled it with balloons and confetti. A couple of hours go by, and as Leslie is searching through documents, she stumbles across something very interesting ... her original Parks Department job application, including a written description of Ron's very first impressions of her. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... What was Ron's REAL first impression of Leslie? Can Ron forgive Leslie for the fake claymore mine? Is there a way Leslie and Ron can escape before 8am? Why did Ron really leave the Parks Department? Will Leslie and Ron ever be friends again? Loyal podcast viewers, we triple-dog-dare you to not get emotional during this episode. You'd have to be a freakin robot to not cry at this one. (NOTE: No offensive, Robonstantine.) Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, the often imitated but never duplicated "JJ's Diner".

S07E03 - William Henry Harrison Jan 31, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we learn that Jerry has fulfilled a life-long dream and become a Notary Public! Trying to come up with reasons the Newport land parcel should be turned into a park rather than a corporate campus, Leslie examines any historical ties that will help her case. Bill Haggerty from the Pawnee Historical Society tells Leslie that the 9th United States President, William Henry Harrison, had a hunting lodge on that land. Leslie hopes this could make it qualify for Historic Landmark status, but finds out the "hunting lodge" has been reduced to a few remaining boulders and bricks. Determined to make the most of it, Leslie stays positive, and next travels to the nearby William Henry Harrison museum in Vincennes, in an attempt to gather everything she can related to the former president. After hearing that Annabel Porter from Bloosh is on board with Gryzzl (see B-Story), Leslie fights fire with fire, and looks for a face for HER bid. Bill Haggerty tells her that William Henry Harrison has a distant nephew, Zach Harrison, living in the area. Gathering everything together, Leslie plans to have a press conference regarding these new William Henry Harrison-related finds. Meanwhile, When Gryzzl learns about Leslie's efforts to strengthen her case, they call a meeting with Ron, Tom, and Donna, suggesting that they get a local Pawnee celebrity as a minority owner. Ron is reluctant, but when he is made aware of Leslie's further progress, he realizes the potential need to counter, and grudgingly agrees to meet with Annabel Porter of Bloosh (last seen on 6.07 "Recall Vote") to be the celebrity face of Gryzzl's bid. They meet with Annabel at Bloosh company headquarters, and while Tom and Donna are enamored with her, Ron is repulsed by everything to do with Bloosh. However, upon hearing that Leslie is preparing a press conference (see A-Story), Ron accelerates his plans and gives Annabel the green light to prepare their own press conference on behalf of Gryzzl. Also meanwhile, Realizing the land both Leslie and Ron are bidding for lies within Pawnee city limits, Ben (acting as City Manager) has a highly-important Point of Sale document that requires official signatures from both Leslie and Ron. Knowing it will be awkward, due to Leslie and Ron feuding, Ben enlists the help of Jerry, who recently fulfilled a lifelong dream and became a Notary Public. This way Leslie and Ron don't have to be in the same room at the same time - Ben and Jerry can travel to one, and then travel to the other. While this sounds good on paper, things keep going wrong, and Ben has great difficulties getting the signatures he needs - which starts to drive him crazy. Finally, ever since the last episode, when April heard Joan's "Walk of Fame" speech, she has been trying to figure out what she really wants to do with her life. This continues in this episode as well, and we find April brainstorming with Andy about various possibilities. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Leslie get Zach Harrison to help with her press conference? Does Annabel Porter agree to spearhead the Gryzzl press conference? Will Ben ever get his documents correctly and officially signed? Can April draw inspiration from the William Henry Harrison museum? Does Leslie manage to get the giant tin-and-paper ball all the way from the museum to the press conference? Will the Gryzzl press conference go well enough to secure their bid for the Newport Land Parcel? Can Jerry ever stop talking about all the cool things having to do with Notary Publics? Does Andy figure out how to help April? Does Ron try to do anything to ambush Leslie? Will Leslie's press conference succeed in getting the Newport Land Parcel preserved? Loyal podcast viewers, the old adage says "what goes up, must come down". Will that hold true for Season 7 here in the 3rd episode? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our fantastic sponsor, "Pawnee Supersuites".

S07E02 - Ron and Jammy Jan 24, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we learn that Councilman Jeremy Jamm and Ron's ex-wife Tammy 2 have actually been in a "real" relationship! With the Pawnee city council voting on re-zoning the Newport land for commercial use, Leslie wants them to vote "No", as this will eliminate Gryzzl from the land competition altogether. When she finds out the deciding vote is held by Councilman Jeremy Jamm, Leslie pays him a visit, only to find that [a] he's made himself look like Ron (somewhat), and [b] apparently he's now with Tammy, who completely controls him in all ways, including how he votes. Leslie tries to convince Tammy to side with her in order to torture Ron. This seems like a sure thing, but later when the council heard arguments, Jamm immediately declares his intention to side with Ron and Gryzzl ... a move orchestrated by Tammy to try and win back Ron. Leslie tries to break up Jamm and Tammy, but in the process realizes that Jamm is a broken, miserable shell of a man. Leslie puts her vote agenda on the back burner, instead wanting to help Jamm escape the clutches of Tammy ... even if that means teaming up with Ron to do it. Meanwhile, Ben and April attend a Pawnee "Walk of Fame" inductee ceremony to honor Joan Callamezzo. Despite being quite crazy in many, many ways, Joan delivers a speech which hits April hard, and makes her start thinking about her job, and what she finally wants to do with her life. April ends up confiding in Ben, and he tries to help her figure things out, including having her take an online vocational test, and dialoguing with her about what she might want to do. It then occurs to April that she *might* want to be a mortician ... Finally, Andy celebrates Tom's success with him, but finds out Tom isn't content just being a big-time mogul ... he wants to have someone in his life. As Tom and Andy discuss things (and drink), Andy sees a GryzzlText come through from Lucy, prompting him to drunkenly suggest he and Tom go to Chicago to meet up with Lucy! The pair sober up during the LONG cab ride there, get out, and as fate would have it, immediately bump into Lucy. Andy makes up a story as to why they are there, and they spend the day with Lucy. Tom realizes how much he misses Lucy, and wonders if she could be the one ... but considers how (or if) it could work between them with Lucy living in a different city. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie and Ron put aside their differences to help Jamm? What is the result of April's online vocational test? Is Lucy interested in Tom? Can Jamm escape the clutches of the dreaded Tammy 2? Can Ben convince April to not live under a bridge and ask people riddles before they cross? Will Tom ask Lucy to come back to Pawnee with him? How will Jamm vote regarding the Newport land re-zoning? Will April decide to become a mortician? Does Andy finally get to go to Ben & Jerry's? Loyal viewers, Season 7 started out with a bang - will the greatness continue, or will it fall flat? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our fantastic sponsor, "Tam-Away".

S07E01 - 2017 Jan 18, 2024

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are first introduced to the "Johnny Karate Super Awesome Musical Explosion Show"! Continuing a few seconds after the Season 6 finale concludes ... we see Leslie and Ben exit the elevator and make their way to an assembly in Council Chambers, where lawyer Trevor Nelsson (on behalf of Jessica Wicks) announces the Newport Family Trust intends to sell a 25-square mile parcel of land. While Leslie wants the land for a new national park, tech company Gryzzl wants it for a new Pawnee campus. Furthermore, Gryzzl has hired Ron, who is now a private business owner running the "Very Good" building and development company. During the City Hall assembly, Leslie and Ron see each other, and it is clear they are not on good terms, and haven't been for some time. Leslie learns the land will likely sell for around $90M, and with only $2-4M available to her, realizes she can't go toe to toe with Gryzzl. Later that night, at the Pawnee Bicentennial Gala honoring Ben, Leslie confronts Ron about "stealing" Tom and Donna away from her (Tom is looking to build a new restaurant on the Gryzzl campus, while Regal Meagle Realty was hired by Ron to broker the deal), and when Ron brings up something called "Morningstar", Leslie flies into a rage. Meanwhile, in 2017 we see April and Andy living a stable, normal life together. In many ways this could be considered a good thing. However, the day of the Pawnee Bicentennial Gala, April looks around and has a bit of an epiphany ... she and Andy have gone from spontaneous and weird, to boring and organized. Andy assures her that's not true - they are still young, fun and crazy, and he promises they will prove it that night at the Pawnee Bicentennial Gala. When April and Andy arrive at the gala, they immediately start brainstorming various crazy things they can do, but appear to have some difficulty when their acquired maturity and sensibilities take some steam out of their actions. Finally, Andy comes up with the perfect solution that can't fail ... he's going to streak the stage. Finally, Ben is being honored at the Pawnee Bicentennial Gala, a black tie event taking place that night, for all of his work organizing festivities for the celebration of Pawnee's 200th year. Tom, who has done extremely well with Tom's Bistro and is a successful business owner, is scheduled to introduce Ben at the gala. Given Tom's track record, Ben is a little nervous about how Tom's introduction will go, despite Tom assuring him everything will be fine. That night, at the event, Tom gets onstage and begins speaking at the microphone, and at first everything seems to be going well ... but then we see Tom put away the cards with his planned speech, and starts using the stage time in front of Pawnee's rich and famous to promote himself. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Why are Leslie and Ron fighting? Will Andy streak the stage as planned? Does Tom course-correct during his introduction speech? Can Leslie raise enough money to compete with Gryzzl? Does April feel better after the gala? Will the rest of the gala go well for Ben? Is there any other strategy Leslie can employ? What happens the following day that turns their lives around? Can Tom make amends with Ben for grabbing the spotlight for himself? What is "Morningstar"? Loyal podcast viewers, we're here ... the FINAL season of this great series! Will Season 7 be as amazing as the prior seasons? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our fantastic sponsor, "???????".

Special End of Season 6 Grab Bag Jan 10, 2024

As you might expect from the title, this week Mark and Allen are combing over the details of Season 6 in the way only they can do. There's a lot of stuff in this one, including interviews, some delightful banter, and a lot of fun. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... What interviews are we talking about? Will our score analysis be interesting? How does Season 6 compare to past seasons? All this and MORE coming up right now! Stick around, true believers. C'mon. You know you wanna. Did we mention we have free pizza?

Happy New Year 2024 from Live from Pawnee! Dec 31, 2023

Join us for a message from the man we all love (especially Mark), the mustachioed legend...Ron Swanson himself! We drug Ron out of the Swanson cabin (geo-location undisclosed) just in time for our Live from Pawnee exclusive to kick off your 2024 with panache! We hope you will take a few minutes to relax, listen, and take in some of the greatest advice ever given!

From Mark, Allen, and Ron and all of us at Live from Pawnee and the LFP Worldwide Headquarters, we wish all of you, our viewers, a very Happy and Safe New Year!

S06E22 - Moving Up - Part Two Dec 21, 2023

This week Mark and Allen complete their breakdown the Episode where we finally meet the Department of the Interior's resident "bad boy", Liam Bonneville! Leslie is in San Francisco, scheduled to speak at the National Parks Conference about the Pawnee/Eagleton merger. At the conference, Leslie bumps into Grant Larson, who invites her to lunch and introduces her to a number of her idols, including Michelle Obama. Grant tells a starstruck Leslie he needs a final decision from her by tomorrow, and after all this, Leslie is heavily leaning towards taking the job. Later, Leslie gives her speech at the conference, describing the Pawnee/Eagleton merger completing in 6-12 months, but her timeline is ridiculed by the audience, with two department heads suggesting the merger will need 10 years of constant hands-on management, or else risk her precious town losing its cityhood and becoming "unincorporated territory". Needless to say, this shakes Leslie to her core, and despite meeting her idols earlier, and how perfect this job seems ... she is now considering not taking it. Meanwhile, Tom's Bistro is set to open in 6 weeks, but when investor Mitch Savner mentions how great it would be for the restaurant to be ready in time for the Unity Concert, Tom jumps the gun and promises to have the place ready for a soft opening the next day, and be ready for officially opening at the end of the week. Tom desperately brings all hands on deck, recruiting April, Craig, Ron and Donna to help him get the restaurant serviceable. Things do not go well: Ron is unable to make 20 chairs in time, Craig is unable to do his job as sommelier due to sinus/allergy issues, and Jerry Gergich orders the menus with ... uh ... let's just say, the wrong background image. As the night goes on, Mitch becomes more and more concerned and upset with the way Tom is running things. Also meanwhile, Ben and Andy are also in San Francisco to meet with tech company "Gryzzl", who is giving away free Wi-Fi to a few cities across the US. Ben meets with them to pitch the idea of Pawnee being one of the cities. Unfortunately, they are only focusing on big cities, so they turn Ben down. After some time to think, Ben is determined to not take no for an answer, and goes back with Andy a 2nd time. This time, however, he sees a large group of Gryzzl employees - including the Gryzzl owners he spoke to in the first meeting - playing the board game HE invented. That's right ... they are playing "The Cones of Dunshire"! Finally, we witness the day we've all been waiting for ... the Unity Concert is here! April and Andy lead the final Unity Concert planning meeting, with a main goal of getting 2000 signatures in support of the Pawnee-Eagleton merger. Andy also tries one last time (unsuccessfully) to get Ron to play as Duke Silver during the concert. Later, we see the Unity Concert in full swing, with headline acts The Decemberists, Ginuwine, Letters to Cleo, Bobby Knight Ranger, and Land Ho bringing in huge crowds. Andy performs as Johnny Karate on the children's stage, and afterwards bumps into Burly. The two reminisce over Mouse Rat's break up and it brings back memories for Andy as he misses being a part of a band. On a similar note, Diane encourages Ron to get up on stage and have fun, but Ron has no intention of doing so. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie take the job? Will Tom's investor, Mitch Savner, back out of the deal? How did Gryzzl get their hands on the Cones of Dunshire? Can Andy find a way to deal with the fact that he misses being in a band? Will Leslie move away from Pawnee? Could there be another opportunity for Tom's Bistro to be redeemed? Can Ben leverage the Cones of Dunshire to his advantage? Does Ron become convinced to play as Duke Silver at some point? Can Leslie find a way to have it all? Does Tom find a way to turn things around? Will Pawnee get free WiFi? Will the gang manage to collect 2000 signatures in support of the Pawnee-Eagleton merger? Loyal viewers, we MADE IT! We are at the END of Season 6! Can you even believe it?!? Will this 53 MINUTE extravaganza blow everything else out of the water? Tune in and find out! Many thanks to our sponsor Entertainment 720 and their award-hopeful film: "Identity Crisis: This is Mouse Rat."

S06E21 - Moving Up - Part One Dec 15, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we finally meet the Department of the Interior's resident "bad boy", Liam Bonneville! Leslie is in San Francisco, scheduled to speak at the National Parks Conference about the Pawnee/Eagleton merger. At the conference, Leslie bumps into Grant Larson, who invites her to lunch and introduces her to a number of her idols, including Michelle Obama. Grant tells a starstruck Leslie he needs a final decision from her by tomorrow, and after all this, Leslie is heavily leaning towards taking the job. Later, Leslie gives her speech at the conference, describing the Pawnee/Eagleton merger completing in 6-12 months, but her timeline is ridiculed by the audience, with two department heads suggesting the merger will need 10 years of constant hands-on management, or else risk her precious town losing its cityhood and becoming "unincorporated territory". Needless to say, this shakes Leslie to her core, and despite meeting her idols earlier, and how perfect this job seems ... she is now considering not taking it. Meanwhile, Tom's Bistro is set to open in 6 weeks, but when investor Mitch Savner mentions how great it would be for the restaurant to be ready in time for the Unity Concert, Tom jumps the gun and promises to have the place ready for a soft opening the next day, and be ready for officially opening at the end of the week. Tom desperately brings all hands on deck, recruiting April, Craig, Ron and Donna to help him get the restaurant serviceable. Things do not go well: Ron is unable to make 20 chairs in time, Craig is unable to do his job as sommelier due to sinus/allergy issues, and Jerry Gergich orders the menus with ... uh ... let's just say, the wrong background image. As the night goes on, Mitch becomes more and more concerned and upset with the way Tom is running things. Also meanwhile, Ben and Andy are also in San Francisco to meet with tech company "Gryzzl", who is giving away free Wi-Fi to a few cities across the US. Ben meets with them to pitch the idea of Pawnee being one of the cities. Unfortunately, they are only focusing on big cities, so they turn Ben down. After some time to think, Ben is determined to not take no for an answer, and goes back with Andy a 2nd time. This time, however, he sees a large group of Gryzzl employees - including the Gryzzl owners he spoke to in the first meeting - playing the board game HE invented. That's right ... they are playing "The Cones of Dunshire"! Finally, we witness the day we've all been waiting for ... the Unity Concert is here! April and Andy lead the final Unity Concert planning meeting, with a main goal of getting 2000 signatures in support of the Pawnee-Eagleton merger. Andy also tries one last time (unsuccessfully) to get Ron to play as Duke Silver during the concert. Later, we see the Unity Concert in full swing, with headline acts The Decemberists, Ginuwine, Letters to Cleo, Bobby Knight Ranger, and Land Ho bringing in huge crowds. Andy performs as Johnny Karate on the children's stage, and afterwards bumps into Burly. The two reminisce over Mouse Rat's break up and it brings back memories for Andy as he misses being a part of a band. On a similar note, Diane encourages Ron to get up on stage and have fun, but Ron has no intention of doing so. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie take the job? Will Tom's investor, Mitch Savner, back out of the deal? How did Gryzzl get their hands on the Cones of Dunshire? Can Andy find a way to deal with the fact that he misses being in a band? Will Leslie move away from Pawnee? Could there be another opportunity for Tom's Bistro to be redeemed? Can Ben leverage the Cones of Dunshire to his advantage? Does Ron become convinced to play as Duke Silver at some point? Can Leslie find a way to have it all? Does Tom find a way to turn things around? Will Pawnee get free WiFi? Will the gang manage to collect 2000 signatures in support of the Pawnee-Eagleton merger? Loyal viewers, we MADE IT! We are at the END of Season 6! Can you even believe it?!? Will this 53 MINUTE extravaganza blow everything else out of the water? Tune in and find out! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor "Pawnee City Hall's 4th Floor".

S06E20 - One in 8,000 Dec 06, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are first introduced to Joe (Donna's ex, and the one she claims is her "Tammy")! With the Unity Concert only 3 weeks away, the Parks Department is throwing a charity auction to raise money for the event. While Leslie and Ben are organizing the auction, they are distracted by Leslie's pregnancy, which no one knows about yet. Upon meeting with Dr. Saperstein, they are blown away to find out they are having triplets, and are told by Saperstein to avoid stress over the coming months. This is challenging for Ben, who crunches the numbers and can't fathom how he and Leslie will be able to raise three children. Leslie and Ben arrive at the auction, and Leslie manages to run it very calmly and smoothly, which is good for her, but bad for the auction, as items sell for much less than they should. Ben does his best to make sure Leslie is calm and avoids stress, but Ben himself keeps getting more and more stressed. Meanwhile, Ron recruits Donna to help make costumes for the Unity Concert's youth review segment at his step-daughters' elementary school. Donna agrees as long as Ron keeps her away from ex-boyfriend Joe, who works at the school, and whom Donna considers a nightmare, her version of Tammy. When they get to the school, Joe comes over to greet them, and Ron does his duty and steps in between them. However, as the day goes on, Ron comes to realize what a kind, genuine person Joe really is. Finally, Andy is still holding onto Leslie's pregnancy secret and does his best to avoid discussing the matter with April. To make matters worse for Andy, he has a hectic schedule over the coming days with a number of Johnny Karate shows to perform. To stop April from asking, Andy falsely tells her that his secret is that Jerry has a deadly disease. April falls for it and in turn, begins feeling sorry for Jerry. She decides to be nice to Jerry and spends time talking with him, thinking she ought to make amends if he is dying. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will the Parks Department raise enough money for the Unity Concert? Does Ron ever admit to Donna that he ... likes Joe? Can April continue to be nice to Jerry? Can Ben find a way to deal with his stress? Will Donna ever come to terms with what she and Joe could have? Does April ever find out Jerry dying is a huge lie? How does the gang react to Leslie being pregnant with triplets? What does the future for Donna and Joe look like? Will Andy be able to keep the secret, or will April make him crack? Loyal podcast viewers, we are nearing the end of Season 6, and things are coming to a head! Will the gang survive these next 3 weeks and make it to the Unity Concert? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our fantastic sponsor, "Wood You Rather".

Pawnee Spotlight - Tuc Watkins Nov 28, 2023

Mark and Allen were extremely lucky to have this opportunity to chat with Tuc in early September 2023. What a nice guy, and a fun person to talk with! Talk about a talented, humble, personable, funny guy ... and on top of that, a great conversationalist, as eager to ask questions as answer them. This interview was simply a blast - yet another in a stream of wonderful guests we've had the privilege to have on our show.
Join us as Tuc talks about his experience with "Boys in the Band", how he and Allen both went to Indiana University (and Mark sucks because he went to Purdue), his twin 10 year old children, his early experiences with show business, his views on movies vs television, how he enjoyed his time on soap operas, and how much he enjoyed being on Parks and Rec, including talks he had with Amy Poehler, the scene where he tries to dunk on the ice and hits his head, and much, much more!
This was an outstanding Pawnee Spotlight from one of our favorite guests. We really enjoyed this, and hope you do too! Enjoy.

You can check out Tuc on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tucwatkins/

Happy Thanksgiving from us to you! Nov 23, 2023

Join Mark and Allen (and Ron Swanson of course) for a special (and likely to be our final) Thanksgiving message recorded at the LFP Worldwide Headquarters just for you! Yes, we are talking to you! Who else would it be?

From all of us here at the Live from Pawnee studio and the LFP Worldwide Headquarters, we wish all of you, our viewers, and yours a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving!

We are Thankful for YOU!

--Mark and Allen (and Constantine)...(and Harvey)...(and Ron)

S06E19 - Flu Season 2 Nov 16, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we learn Ben's spirit animal is a baby snow owl! With flu season in full swing, Leslie is desperate not to get sick, has quarantined an infected Jerry, and warns Andy to take plenty of vitamins. Leslie is ecstatic when Andy announces he has secured Chipp McCapp (a 17-year-old country singer who Pawnee loves) as headliner for the Unity Concert. However, when Chipp later backs out, Leslie and Andy decide to go to his studio in Indianapolis to change his mind. Just before they leave, Leslie yarfs in the trash can, blaming Jerry for giving her the flu. While en route to Indianapolis, Leslie visits a pharmacy to pick up some flu medicine, but when the pharmacist doesn't see any tell-tale signs of the flu and suggests it might be something else, Leslie's eyes wander over to the pregnancy tests. Prior to meeting Chipp, Leslie takes the test, and (unsuccessfully) tries to call Ben. When they meet with Chipp, it becomes clear he is a selfish brat with no boundaries or respect for others, and after insulting Pawnee, Leslie is tempted to tell him off. Meanwhile, interested in hiring a wine expert for his new restaurant, Tom's Bistro, Tom plans a trip with Donna and April to go to a local vineyard, where a number of sommeliers will be competing for their certification. Although not invited by Tom, Craig, Ron, and Ben also come along to Tom's irritation. At the winery, Tom zeros in on his best prospect, Mr. Xander Trufant. While there, Craig and April also register to be part of the competition, but for different reasons ... Craig is a surprisingly knowledgeable (but hot-headed) wine connoisseur, whereas April just wants to mess with the judges. Finally, while at the vineyard, Ben (who earlier had received a check in the mail) gets a call from his father explaining the check, saying he sold the family lake house without telling anyone, and the check represents Ben's share of the profits. Ben feels upset and disrespected, and attempts to vent to Ron. Ron is not a big fan of this, and quickly gets hold of some alcohol so Ben will have something to do with his mouth besides talk to him. The two head out into the vineyard fields with several bottles of blueberry wine, leading to Ben quickly becoming a rambling, inebriated mess. During this time, Ben receives a call from Leslie (see the A-Story above), but before anything of value is communicated, Ben drops his phone in a muddy puddle, ending the call and making his phone go dead. Worried about Leslie, not wanting to wait around for Tom, and not really thinking straight, Ben decides to walk home so he can get to Leslie ASAP, and Ron decides to walk with him. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Does Leslie end up telling off Chipp McCapp? Who will receive their sommelier certification? How many bottles of blueberry wine will Ben drink? Who can Leslie and Andy find as a replacement headliner? Can April get through the event without security getting involved? Can Ben get over his anger at his father selling the family lake house? What did Leslie find out from her pregnancy test? Who will Tom get to come work for him at Tom's Bistro? Who do Ben and Ron meet on their journey home? Loyal viewers, episode sequels are rare, but not unheard of. Can this episode stand up to the high marks set by the original? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, "Chez Chez La Rue".

S06E18 - Prom Oct 25, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we first hear a reference to Gryzzle! With the Pawnee-Eagleton merger forcing many cuts, including Pawnee Central High's prom, the Parks Department decides to throw prom for them, obviously on a very limited budget. Leslie meets with the prom committee, including Tom, Ben, Donna, and several high school students, with Leslie particularly impressed with a young lady named Allison Gliffert, who has many impressive Knope-like qualities (and binders). She reminds Leslie of herself, and the two get along great ... in fact, Leslie plans to offer Allison a summer internship with the Parks Department. When Ron finds out about this, we learn that Ron ALSO knows Allison and thinks a lot of her, bristles at the thought of Allison working for the government for free, and coaxes her to instead take a paying job working for his friend at the sawmill. Their clashing ideologies lead Leslie and Ron to butt heads as they try to win Allison over. This persists through both the pre-prom setup and the prom, getting more intense as time goes by, until Allison freaks out and runs away. Meanwhile, during the prom planning, Leslie assigns music to Ben and Tom. As expected, the two have very different tastes, styles, and schools of thought regarding music selection. Not only that, but Tom clearly looks at Ben with disdain, seeing him as an embarassing, out-of-touch old man. At the prom, Tom takes over and plays what he feels are cool, popular "bangers", convinced that everyone will love it. However, he is eventually told by students that they aren't really into his music choices. Tom takes this hard, concerned that he no longer knows what's cool. Finally, excited about the upcoming prom at Pawnee Central High, Andy happily asks April to go with him to prom. Due to her overt hatred for dancing, young people, fun (and apparently punch), April is NOT pleased about this ... but she loves Andy, he finally wins her over, and she reluctantly agrees to go. However, in typical April style, she dresses in all black, remains snarky, and seems to put very little effort into enjoying herself at the prom. She sees Andy cheerful, happy, getting along with everyone, and having a great time ... while she just wants to go home. This all makes her wonder ... how can she love him when she hates everything he loves? As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... As Leslie and Ron clash, can one of their ideologies prevail? Can Ben and Tom ever agree on what to play? Will April stay at the prom? What is the "Leslie Knope 10-Point Insanity Scale"? Is there anything Ben can do to make Tom feel better? Is there anyone that can give April some comfort and advice? Who is ... DJ Robo Drop? Who will the prom king and queen be? Is there a special surprise waiting for Leslie at the end of the episode? Loyal podcast viewers, Mark and Allen have seen some of their largest score differentials here in Season 6. Will this episode continue the trend? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, "Pawnee ... What If?".

S06E17 - Galentine's Day Oct 18, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode featuring another return to that great female-themed celebration started by Leslie Knope, Galentine's Day! After two months without Ann, Leslie is really missing her, which gets exacerbated when Ann leaves a voicemail to say she can't make their weekly chat session. Trying to do something constructive, Leslie organizes an impromptu Galentine's Day and invites Donna, April, Shauna Malwae-Tweep, Ethel Beavers and Evelyn (a.k.a. "Fake Ann"), with an ulterior motive of testing them to see who would be the best candidate for her new (local) best friend. During the brunch, Leslie asks the ladies several questions to figure out each of their qualities. Unfortunately, her plan backfires when the women find out she is ranking them, and everyone angrily leaves ... except Shauna Malwae-Tweep. Meanwhile, Ben is looking to rent a tent for the Unity Concert, and recruits Tom and Jerry to accompany him to Tent World to finalize a deal. Upon meeting with Harvey, the owner and CEO of Tent World, it becomes clear that Harvey is a no-good-nick, and Ben is not receiving a fair deal for the tents he originally asked for. Standing firm, he turns down Harvey's deal, and decides to take his business elsewhere. Unfortunately, this leads to Ben's next realization ... every tent store in Pawnee is owned by Harvey. He has a Tent Monopoly. He has a Tent-opoly. Finally, tired of the constant noise in his life (whether from children or co-workers), Ron volunteers to do the park survey for the Unity Concert himself, looking forward to spending the day outside and alone. Unfortunately, Leslie assigns Andy to help Ron. This puts a kink in Ron's plans, as Andy's childishness greatly annoys Ron, who just wants to do his work in peace and quiet. Things come to a head when Andy knocks his tooth out and requires Ron to drive him to a dentist. Ron tries to leave, but it becomes clear Andy is lost with the paperwork, so he stays. After a while, though, Andy grows antsy, and asks Ron if they can just leave. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Shauna be Leslie's new best friend by default? Does someone come up with a secret weapon to use against Harvey? Does Andy end up leaving the dentist? Can Donna and April forgive Leslie for pitting them against each other? Can the guys actually get a tent for the Unity Concert? Can Ron ever take a break from parenting those around him? Why did Ann have to postpone their weekly chat session? Will Ben ever admit in public that he actually likes Jerry? Will Andy ever get his tooth fixed? Loyal viewers, it's a rare thing for an episode to share the exact title as an episode the aired earlier in the series. Can it live up to the name? Stay tuned to find out! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, "C.T. Tavis Medical Center".

S06E16 - New Slogan Oct 11, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are introduced to Peebo the Ping-Pong Playing Panda! Ben unveils the new city website for Pawnee, featuring an online poll for the new town slogan. Just after this happens, Leslie meets with Grant Larson, Director of the Midwest Branch of the National Parks Service, to further discuss the details of the job offer he made in the last episode. Grant tells Leslie her new role will include overseeing 200 people and be mainly focused on creative, big picture stuff ... and as a result, will no longer involve the everyday minutiae, which she currently does, and loves very much. A bit later, Ben is ready to go live with the slogan poll, and comments the website will do all the work for them. Perhaps drawing a parallel between what Grant told her, and the website, Leslie reacts to this by insisting that they still need to manually do stuff, such as door-to-door promotion, handing out flyers, canvassing, and even holding a press junket. A bit later, the aforementioned press junket starts, with Leslie meeting with notable town icons such as Perd Hapley, Joan Callamezzo and Crazy Ira and The Douche to try and get them to promote the slogan poll. Unfortunately, Crazy Ira and The Douche get their listeners to bombard the poll with votes for "Pawnee: Welcome To Douche Nation". Upon finding this out, Leslie takes it upon herself to go on their radio program in an attempt to get their listeners to vote for a less-douchy-and-more-elegant slogan. Meanwhile, Tom is trying to find the perfect (and affordable) place for his restaurant venture, Tom's Bistro, and calls upon Donna and Regal Meagle Realty to help, with April tagging along to give her opinions on the available properties. For the next two days, Donna, April, and Tom visit a variety of places, but all of them seem to have inherent flaws (e.g. too expensive, too far from City Hall, too small). At the end of the 2nd day, Tom is at his wits end, and laments that ... maybe Tom's Bistro wasn't meant to be ... and plans to inform his investor that he can't find a suitable property. Finally, Andy has been driving all over Indiana looking for bands to play the unity concert, but has been largely unsuccessful. When he asks Craig for any advice, Craig mentions a couple of locations in Eagleton that do pretty well, including Cozy's Bar. Willing to try anything, Andy goes to Cozy's to check it out. There he finds a throng of excited middle-aged women waiting for ... the one ... the only ... Mr. Duke Silver. Noticing how much Duke resembles Ron, Andy goes into Ron's office the next day to tell him about his visit to Cozy's. Seeing now way out of it, Ron admits he is Duke Silver, but insists Andy keep it a secret. Andy, however, is too excited at this news, and insists on booking Ron/Duke Silver to play at the Unity Concert. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... How will Leslie do on-air with Crazy Ira and The Douche? Can Donna find a suitable property for Tom? Will Andy really book Duke Silver to play at the Unity Concert? Will Leslie ever be capable of delegating work to others? Does April ever provide positive feedback? Will Duke Silver actually PLAY at the Unity Concert? What will be Pawnee's new town slogan? Will Tom's Bistro ever become a viable up-and-coming business, or will it go the way of Entertainment 720? Does Ron do anything to keep his alter ego, Duke Silver, a secret? Loyal podcast viewers, last episode witnessed the largest scoring gap Mark and Allen have ever had. Will this week be better? Tune in to find out! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, "Cozy's Bar".

S06E15 - The Wall Oct 05, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are first introduced to the 3rd floor at City Hall! Leslie hopes the Unity Concert will prove the Pawnee-Eagleton merger was a success, but plans a couple more things to ensure success. First, she books a meeting with Grant Larson, Director of the Midwest Branch of the National Parks Service, to ask about declaring "Eagleton Hills" a national park for the Unity Concert grand finale. Second, at the park that borders Pawnee and Eagleton, Leslie decides to knock down the graffiti-filled wooden fence dividing the two towns during a press conference where she will announce the Unity Concert. Things are going well at the press conference, and Leslie has two Eagletonians do the honors of delivering the symbolic "first strike" on the wooden fence. Unfortunately, there is a BEEHIVE directly behind the spot they hit, causing hundreds of bees to scatter and sting those attending the press conference. When it turns out the majority of those stung were Eagletonians, the media assumes Leslie set it all up as a prank, which furthers the divide between the two towns. Meanwhile, Tom and Ben hold a Unity Concert sponsorship seminar to entice local businesses to pledge their support. Tom's does a good job with his pitch, reeling in 16 sponsorship offers, including one from Mitch Savner, owner of Savner Bleaches and Chemicals. Mitch tells Tom he likes to invest in good ideas, and he was so impressed by Tom's presentation, he believes Tom is an "idea" man, and offers Tom the opportunity to pitch his best idea to him the next day. Tom's only fleshed-out idea, and the one he's most passionate about, is a restaurant venture, but Ben reminds him just how risky restaurants can be. Tom reluctantly asks Ben for help, knowing that even though he may not come up with something sexy, Ben can likely produce a solid business idea. Finally, unbeknownst to Leslie and the gang, Diane already had Ron's baby. Indeed, this only comes to light when Ron brings his newborn son, John, into work with him. However, Ron quickly grows tired of his co-workers constantly hovering and fussing over John, as it denies him the peace and quiet he so desperately wants. In an attempt to get away from the gang, he takes John up to seemingly-deserted 3rd floor of City Hall, where he happily stumbles upon the combo of a faulty radiator, and a tool box. Happily fixing the radiator, Ron and his son attract the attention of the construction crew getting ready to start work on the 3rd floor, who warn them that they are about to make a lot of very loud noise. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... How does Leslie combat the media saying the bees were an elaborate prank? Can Ben come up with a solid business idea for Tom? Does the construction crew drive Ron and his son away? Will Leslie do anything to make the stinging victims feel better? Will Tom pass out from sheer boredom? Can Ron continue to elude everyone making a fuss over the baby? Whatever happened to Leslie's meeting with Grant Larson? What does Tom ultimately pitch to Mitch Savner? What else will Ron find in this paradise called "the 3rd floor"? Loyal viewers, how does this episode stack up against the rest? Tune in to find out! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, "Perkins Day Care".

S06E14 - Anniversaries Sep 27, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we first hear about the Unity Concert AND we first see Jim O'Heir and Retta in the show's opening credits! With both Pawnee and Eagleton citizens still not happy about the towns merging a few months ago, Leslie goes on Wamapoke County Public Radio to convince people the merger was both a good idea and a success. After several callers criticized the merger, Leslie determines the merger needs a win, something symbolic and happy for people to focus on. Later, while looking at a local newspaper, Leslie notices a couple from a Pawnee-Eagleton marriage celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. She whips up a plan to use this couple as a symbol that Pawnee and Eagleton can come together and unite, including interviewing them on Pawnee Today. Unfortunately, it becomes clear this is not exactly a loving couple ... in fact, they both despise the other. Meanwhile, Ben plans a big day of celebration with Leslie to commemorate their one-year anniversary, but to surprise her, and to ensure she makes that "dopey surprised face" he always seems to make when she gives HIM gifts ... he decides to do it the day BEFORE their actual anniversary date. Ben enlists the help of Jerry, who has the most successful marriage of the entire gang, to help him orchestrate things. Unfortunately, with Leslie concentrating on all this crazy merger stuff, Ben and Jerry are unable to lure Leslie to the secret events they have set up, and Ben is unsure what to do. Finally, Ron goes to the Pawnee Animal Shelter to adopt a dog for Zoe and Ivy. Passionate about animals, and Director of Animal Control, April helps him out, but is frustrated and annoyed to learn that, once again, Donna has left work without any advance notice. Unsure how to approach disciplining Donna, April talks to Ron, and then finally decides to submit an anonymous bad review via Yelp that chastises Donna for being absent ... Something which Donna is rather unhappy about. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Does the Pawnee Today interview with Joan Callamezzo go smoothly? Did Jerry screw up any of Ben's plans? How does Donna react to the bad Yelp review? Will the DeMarcos be the symbol of Pawnee/Eagleton unity Leslie is looking for? What gift did Ben ultimately give Leslie? What gift did Leslie ultimately get for Ben? Will April and Donna resolve their differences? Will Derry Murbles murder his new co-host? Who ended up making the dopey surprised face? What idea does all this internet / IP address silliness give Ron? Loyal podcast viewers, can Parks and Rec maintain their quality storylines now that Ann and Chris have left? Tune in to find out! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, "Thought For Your Thoughts" with host Derry Murbles.

S06E13 - Ann and Chris with Tuc Watkins Sep 14, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we learned Ann once went out on a date with Perd Hapley! It is Ann and Chris' last day in Pawnee, and Leslie has organized a huge going away party so they can enjoy one last occasion with them. At the party, Leslie explains that because she doesn't know when she will see Ann again, the party's theme is a celebration of everything that will happen in the coming year. Furthermore, in celebration of how their friendship started, Leslie secretly arranges for her and Ann to officially break ground on Pawnee Commons at Lot 48 as a going away present. However, Harold, the Director of Public Works, is angry that Leslie went over his head to do that, since his department did NOT sign off on it. Later, Leslie finds out Harold put a padlock on the fence surrounding Lot 48, halting her plans for a midnight groundbreaking. Trying to think of a way around this, Leslie tells Ann about her surprise plan. Ann is up for one more crazy caper with Leslie, and insists they do whatever they need to do for the groundbreaking to take place. Meanwhile, as the guys help Chris pack up the last of his things, they notice several boxes with their names on them, which Chris reveals are "buddy boxes" ... his gift to each of the guys, with each one containing a memento symbolizing Chris' friendship with each of them. They open up the boxes to find very heartfelt, thoughtful gifts. Clearly, the guys were not prepared for such a meaningful exchange ... they got him a gift card to that awesome store "Pots and Pans" ... and they try to come up with something better over the course of the evening. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Does the groundbreaking of Pawnee Commons take place as planned? Do the guys succeed with their gift attempt, or do they continue to suck? What are all the things celebrated by Leslie's farewell extravaganza? How does Leslie make Lot 48 "raccoon-safe"? What was within everyone's buddy box? Can Ben come up with one final idea that will be meaningful to Chris? Will this be Leslie and Ann's last crazy caper together? Is this really the end of an era? Loyal viewers, please join us for this bittersweet farewell to the eternally cheerful Chris Traeger, and the beautiful, talented, brilliant, powerful musk ox that is Ann Perkins. Goodbye, musk ox. Many thanks to our amazing sponsor Pawnee Super Suites!

Pawnee Spotlight: Ian Phillips Sep 07, 2023

Mark and Allen were fortunate enough to chat with Ian a few weeks back. What a great interview, and a fascinating discussion! It's always nice to take a look behind the scenes and get a deeper appreciation as to "how the sausage is made", so to speak, and Ian really delivered. He is intelligent, a great conversationalist, and has an uncanny knack for diving into interesting details while at the same time keeping it lively and fun.

Join in as the guys talk to Ian about all of the incredible, creative work that goes on behind-the-scenes and turns Pawnee, and even Eagleton (spit) into real life places occupied by our favorite Pawneeans! Ian has worked on hundreds of productions as both an Art Director and Production Designer, working across dozens of TV Series, Videos, Shorts, TV movies and films - not the least of which is a little show we like to call Parks and Recreation! In fairness, NBC actually called it that too; but we like the title enough to skip the AKAs!

This was a very enjoyable Pawnee Spotlight, and Ian is definitely one of our favorite guests. We hope you all like it as much as we did! Enjoy!

P.S. You can check out Ian's work at imdb.com/name/nm2214641/ and https://adg.org/directory/1318-ian-phillips/ and you can follow Ian on Instagram at @ijpdesign_tv/ where you can see some of his beautiful furniture too!

S06E12 - Farmer's Market Aug 31, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are first introduced to Andy's last (and perhaps best) alter ego, Johnny Karate! When a chard vendor named Nolan uses sexually suggestive tactics to sell his wares at the Farmers Market, Leslie thinks it's unethical and wants it shut down. As new City Manager, though, Ben has to put aside his personal opinions, and isn't quite sure the vendor is violating any codes. When the issue starts getting discussed outside work hours, Ben suggests a "firewall system" that prevents work-related talk at home, and vice versa. The next day Leslie presents Ben with a list of reasons why the chard vendor should be kicked out, but Ben thinks Leslie might just be targeting the chard vendor. Ben is also irritated that Leslie revoked Nolan's license without consulting him. He ends up undoing the premature revoke as he still needs more time to sift through city codes ... angering Leslie. Meanwhile, Ann is in constant agony with pregnancy aches and pains, and she begins to get frustrated with Chris Traeger's constant efforts to cheer her up and solve her problems. She stumbles across a wine & cheese club (spelled W-H-I-N-E) hosted in Ron's office that consists of Ron, Tom, Donna, and Jerry. Tom explains they gather in Ron's office once a month to vent (or "whine") about what annoys them at work, while enjoying fine wine and cheese. Ann sees this as the perfect place to vent about her problems, but as she does so, everyone sees the balance start to tip, as the club becomes less about them, and more about her. Finally, when Craig overhears Andy playing his guitar at work, he invites him and the rest of Mouse Rat to play at his nephew's 6th birthday party. At first Andy talks his band mates into the gig, but after they learn it's for a children's party, they angrily walk out of rehearsal. Although he's not sure what songs to play (as most of Mouse Rat's songs are sexual in nature), Andy decides to play the party by himself, with April by his side. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie adhere to the firewall system? Can Chris find a way to be there for Ann without making her angry? What songs will Andy decide to play at the party? Can Ben figure out a compromise between Leslie and Nolan? Will Ann find solace in the Whine and Cheese club? Can Andy come up with a performing name for just himself? Does anyone REALLY like chard shots? How many times can someone say the word "nipple" in a conversation? Will the party be a success, or will Craig end up losing it? Loyal podcast viewers, we are now over halfway through the penultimate season of Parks and Rec. Tune in to see if they can maintain the quality we have all come to expect! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, "Apple".

S06E11 - New Beginnings Aug 23, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Ben has his first day as Pawnee City Manager! As Leslie returns to her position as Deputy Director of Parks and Rec on a full-time basis, she expects everything to be the same as it was when she left. However, she instead sees many differences: April is handling Animal Control with ease, and Tom's firing on all cylinders in his new role of Business Liaison. Tom mentions his project to enlist a juice company to run a lemonade stand in one of Pawnee's parks to replace a retiring hot stew chef, and states he will be pitching the idea to the Pawnee Small Business Coalition. While somewhat impressed with Tom's initiative, Leslie is NOT impressed with Tom's decision to do things HIS way, instead of following her presentation guidelines that have been a Parks Department staple for 10 years. Worried Tom will fail in his presentation, Leslie decides to convince the hot stew chef to NOT go into retirement, deciding to represent him, and ultimately planning to go head-to-head with Tom in front of the Small Business Coalition. Meanwhile, Ben has an open house on his first day as Pawnee City Manager. He attempts to show everyone (particularly April, Andy, and Donna) that he is very cool, calm, and laid back. However, he ALSO implements a number of new rules to assert his position as a no-nonsense boss. Sensing Ben is wound very tight, the trio decide to prank him with a false arrest to "lighten him up". Two Pawnee police officers end up escorting a terrified Ben down to the station, trumping up ridiculous charges the whole way, until Ben thinks he'll never see the light of day again ... until April, Andy, and Donna come to the police station and reveal the prank. Even though the trio thinks it's hilarious, Ben is NOT amused. Finally, in the middle of taking pictures around City Hall to show their unborn baby where they met, Chris and Ann consider their situation and their plans for the future, and spontaneously decide they should get married. They head to a jewelry store in Pawnee, where they begin shopping for an engagement ring. Listening to another engaged couple also shopping there, they realize how much forethought is typically put into something like this, and start to question not only whether or not they want to buy the ring, but whether or not they want to get married. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Tom get his lemonade stand idea going? Did Ben pee his pants at the police station? Will Ann and Chris decide to get married? What will happen to the hot stew stand? Will Ben try to do anything in retaliation? What will Ann and Chris buy at the jewelry store? Will Leslie be able to get back into the rhythm of things? Did Andy like the illegal french cheese? Will Jerry die of cracker-dust inhalation? Loyal viewers, Mark and Allen are really on their game during this episode - tune in and enjoy! (EDIT BY CONSTANTINE: Subtle, guys.) Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, "Strackwell Hardware".

Special End of Season 5 Grab Bag With Production Designer Ian Phillips Aug 16, 2023

As per the oh-so-descriptive name, this week Mark and Allen are going on a grabbing frenzy ... a little viewer feedback ... some score analysis ... episode reviews ... a location guide or two ... even a teaser from a certain interview. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Who did we interview? What did our viewer feedback have to say? Is there any further news regarding our acquisition of MARBUCKS? Will our score analysis be interesting? What the hell is a location guide? Yep, all this, and EVEN MORE coming right up! Stick around, true believers. C'mon. You know you wanna. Did we mention there are snacks? Special thanks to our sponsor Pawnee 311 and to Production Designer extraordinaire Ian Phillips for being our guest. Hang out until the end for a sneak peek at our upcoming full interview!

S06E10 - Second Chunce Jul 27, 2023

They're (finally) back! This week Mark and Allen break down the supersized Episode where we are first introduced to the concept of "Tex-Mexting"! (LOL and yuck.) On Leslie's last day as City Councilor, she gives newly-elected councilwoman Ingrid de Forest a tour of Council Chambers and shows her where her seat is. Soon after, she reluctantly packs up her office and says goodbye to her dream job. Ben tells her getting away from the city council is the best thing for her. However, just then, they see on TV a live press conference with "Sexy Dexy" Councilman Dexhart responding to yet another sex scandal. This inspires Leslie to challenge Dexhart for his seat, and she begins preparations for another campaign. Ben points out a number of flaws with her plan ... such as the fact that she doesn't even live in Dexhart's district ... but Leslie isn't fazed and pushes forward with such tasks as talking with Pawnee Journal reporter Shauna Malwae-Tweep, quickly hand crafting her own banner, and setting up her own press conference. Still having reservations, Ben manages to convince Leslie to run her plans by the gang so they can offer feedback. Meanwhile, Tom officially hands over Rent-A-Swag to Dr. Saperstein and receives his money, a portion of which he hands over to his investors (Ron, Donna, April, Jerry). Remembering lawyer Trevor Nelsson's words about how successful people get others to work for them, he decides that instead of HIM coming up with his next idea, he will get others to do it. Tom proceeds to set up an idea pitch meeting with various "entrepreneurs" from Pawnee. Unfortunately, all their ideas suck, so out of desperation, Tom turns to the Parks and Rec gang for new ideas. Finally, Ann and Chris meet with Dr. Saperstein, find out their baby is doing great, and are asked if they want to know the baby's gender. Ann and Chris are both unsure whether or not they want to know, so Dr. Saperstein writes down the results and seals it in an envelope, so they can reveal it to themselves whenever they want. They both talk about which gender they prefer, but eventually come to terms with the fact that either will be perfect. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... What will the gang think about Leslie running again? Will the Parks and Rec gang have any good ideas for Tom? Will Ann and Chris look in the envelope? How does Leslie's press conference go? Is there anyone who can talk Tom out of his funk? Do either Ann or Chris have a preference for what the gender will be? Is there anyone that can change Leslie's mind about running again? What WILL Tom plan on doing next? What IS the gender of Ann and Chris' unborn baby? Loyal podcast viewers, this is a great episode - will the producer's cut make it even better? Tune in to find out! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, "Cakey J's Cheesecake Facility"!

S06E09 - Cones of Dunshire Jul 05, 2023

It’s all about the Cones! This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are first introduced to the legendary game, "The Cones of Dunshire"! With Leslie's time on the City Council soon coming to a close, as her final task, she seeks to guarantee the longevity of the project that started it all ... the "Sullivan Street Pit", which after getting filled in became "Lot 48", and finally became the intended site for the architectural park design that is now referred to as "Pawnee Commons". Specifically, the money set aside for Pawnee Commons is in a discretionary fund. Leslie wants to move this money to a lock box to ensure it is used for that project. Unfortunately, once again seeking to thwart Leslie, Councilman Jeremy Jamm moves to table any decision on the money until Leslie is out of office. Determined to succeed with this final action, Leslie (assisted by Chris as mediator) confronts Jamm at his house and insists on hashing things out. Jamm agrees to have her and Chris stay the night, with the goal being to begin negotiations the next morning. Negotiations continue while Jamm makes them breakfast, and for some while afterwards, but Jamm continues to play hard ball, and Leslie has to think on her feet regarding her next move. Meanwhile, Ron has purchased a new cabin that will provide a more friendly environment for Diane and the kids. As a result, Ron decides it is time to sell one of his four (I mean TWO) cabins. Reluctantly realizing he might need help, he enlists Donna (and by proxy, Tom) to assist him as realtors, with April tagging along out of pure interest and curiosity. As one might imagine, Ron does not like or understand Donna and Tom's frou-frou approach to sprucing up his cabin. Making things worse, Ron very much dislikes the types of people looking to buy it, such as one bidder who wishes to buy the property purely for the land, and will thus end up demolishing the cabin. Finally, Now that Ben is no longer working for Sweetums, he had to make a decision as to his next job ... and decided to take the offer from the accounting firm that Barney Varmn works for, Tilton and Radomski. However, he had a week off until he started there, so he used his spare time creating a very nerdy and complex board called "The Cones of Dunshire" ... which I think Leslie mentally categorizes along with some of his other strange short obsessions, like clay-mation. On Ben's first day, Barney is overjoyed to see him, as always, but an employee named Frank Mann is not impressed with Ben, or his legendary status around the office, and is looking to see him fail. Ben gets put to the test on his first day, when Barney apologetically gives Ben their toughest case. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Jamm continue to play hardball? Can Ben crack the case, or will Frank end up gloating in his face? Will Donna give Ron the friends and family discount? Will Ron ACCEPT the friends and family discount? Can Chris figure out what is really driving Leslie to do this? Can Tom leverage this opportunity to become the mogul he's always dreamed of? Does Ben break the "Barney Curse", and finally keep his job with Tilton and Radomski? Does Leslie succeed in ensuring the future of Pawnee Commons? Does Ron end up selling his cabin, and if so, to who? Will Ben ever find a worthy home for "The Cones of Dunshire"? Who is Jamm's best friend? Loyal viewers, this one will decide the future of the Sullivan Street Pit / Lot 42 / Pawnee Commons! What will happen? Tune in to find out! Many thanks to our fantastic sponsor, "Pawnee Community Theater" ... now performing the famous musical and Hollywood sensation, "Grease"!

S06E08 - Flouride Jun 20, 2023

After a short mini-vacay, Mark and Allen return this week to break down the Episode where Ben gets fired from Sweetums! Now having access to Eagleton's reservoir and water treatment supply, which contains fluoride, Pawnee is set to ALSO have fluoride in its water for the first time in its history. With Leslie's time on the Council now ticking away, she attempts to get her Pawnee-Eagleton reservoir merger bill approved, but Jamm counters with a bill that prohibits adding anything to Pawnee's water supply forever, as he is a dentist, loves cavities, and is therefore anti-fluoride. To sway the public, Jamm uses scare tactics by accusing Leslie of wanting to put a dangerous chemical into the water supply. Realizing there are no consequences to her actions (seeing as she has already been recalled), Leslie begins to fight back with ferocity and recruits Tom to help her spice up the idea of fluoride. Tom effectively re-brands fluoride into TDazzle, which the public loves. Meanwhile, Chris has been reading numerous parenting help books and follows them to a T. When Ron shows off his latest wood working project, building a crib for his unborn child, Chris becomes concerned that Ron is ignoring every known crib safety standard, and insists Ron accompany him to Bloomington's baby boutique store, so he can show Ron where he bought "the safest crib in the explored universe". At the store, Chris is shocked to find out that the crib he bought was recalled after a hazardous chemical was discovered in the glue. This causes Chris to change his mind, deciding he wants to do things the "Swanson way". Ron finally agrees, and plans to teach Chris how to build his own crib at the Swanson woodshop. During the lessons, however, Chris starts looking for metaphors in Ron's lessons, assuming he can learn parenting tips along the way. Finally, when April, Donna, and Craig look at Animal Control's new dog adoption website, they notice how a few dogs resemble some of the gang. This causes them to start a fun game where they pair member of the Parks Department with their "spirit dog". Everyone has a good time, until April chooses a dog for Donna ... at which point Donna gets upset, stands up, and leaves. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Jamm counter TDazzle, and if so, how so? Are there actually metaphors in Ron's lessons? Why did Donna get upset with April's choice? Does Sweetums gets involved in this hotly contested issue? Can Chris truly learn "the Swanson way"? How can April make things right with Donna? Will Pawnee finally get fluoride in their water? What crib does Chris end up with? What IS Donna's spirit dog? Loyal podcast viewers, the clock is ticking on Leslie's time in office ... can she make the most of it? Tune in to find out! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, the one and only, "Sweetums".

S06E07 - Recall Vote May 30, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are first introduced to Bloosh, as well as its founder, Annabel Porter! With the day of the Recall Election at hand, Leslie distracts herself by working with the gang to transform City Hall into a haunted house for Halloween. To ensure Leslie remains calm, Ben and Ann form the "Leslie Knope Emotional Support Task Force" and provide further distractions for her throughout the day. That night, the gang waits with Leslie in the bullpen for the results to pour in. It doesn't take long, and unfortunately, Leslie loses the recall election in a landslide. It would be safe to say Leslie does not handle the situation well. She comes into work the next morning dressed like a slob, eating a Paunch Burger, having lost interest in not only the haunted house project, but also her general well-being. That night, Ben takes her to a bar and watches her pound shots, while he tries to boost her spirits. Meanwhile, Tom gets one final mediocre buyout offer from Dr. Saperstein (delivered by Trevor the lawyer, of course), and is pressured to take it, since Rent-A-Swag has not been doing well. Shortly afterwards, Ron finds out his hand-crafted rocking chair has been named a trending, must-have item of the season by Annabel Porter, the author of Bloosh, Pawnee's premiere weekly lifestyle newsletter. Ron is rather nonplussed at this news, but he sees Tom and Donna are very excited, with Tom especially excited as he sees it as a possible way for HIM to get into Bloosh and give his ailing business a much needed boost. Realizing it could help Tom, Ron agrees to go on Pawnee Today to discuss his craft with Joan Callemezzo and Annabel Porter. Ron brings Tom and Donna with him to the recording, and they all plan to attend the Bloosh after party as well, where Tom hopes Ron can personally introduce him to Annabel Porter. Finally, April misses Andy and feels lost without her soul mate. Halloween was "their thing", and she does not feel like she can enjoy this time of the year without Andy. Chris attempts to comfort her and cheer her up, but in typical April fashion, she rebuffs his efforts. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Ben boost Leslie's spirits, or will Leslie drag Ben down to her level? Does Ron end up introducing Tom to Annabel at the Bloosh after party? Can Chris manage to cheer up April in time for the City Hall Haunted House? Will Ann swoop in to help save the day? Can Annabel negotiate a business proposal with Ron regarding his chair? Will April apologize for mouthing off to Chris despite his good intentions? What will Leslie do during her last 30 days? Will Tom end up taking Dr. Saperstein's final buyout offer? Loyal viewers, tragedy has struck ... and Leslie is out of office. How in the world can the gang bounce back from this? Tune in to find out! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, "The Pawnee Mystery Closet".

S06E06 - Filibuster May 18, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we first Ben likes women in skates. Like ... A LOT. Reasoning the citizens from Eagleton will likely have Leslie's back in the recall election, since she saved most of their jobs when the towns merged, Councilman Jamm proposes a bill that only allows someone to vote in a Pawnee election if their ID lists an official Pawnee address. Leslie manages to get the bill tabled until after the election, and carries out an early 90's birthday party for Ben at the roller skating rink. However, she finds out Jamm is holding a special session in the council chamber to untable the bill, and vote on it. Despite being dressed in skating gear, she decides to filibuster the session to prevent the vote, knowing she is not allowed to stop at any time or receive help from anyone in attendance. Midway through her filibuster, Leslie begins to tire and falter, but at that moment a crowd of citizens from former Eagleton enter the council chamber to support Leslie's attempt at preserving their voting rights ... and she gets a second wind. Meanwhile, Tom and his new girlfriend Nadia attend Ben's party at the roller skating rink. As they continue to bond, Tom desperately tries to impress Nadia as she is leaving for Rwanda in two days with Doctors Without Borders, could be gone a very long time, and Tom hopes she likes him enough to contact him when she gets back to Indiana. As a going away present, Nadia challenges Tom to win her a stuffed bear playing skeeball. However, Ann also takes a liking to the bear, offers cash to buy it, and walks away with Tom's best chance to impress and woo Nadia. Also meanwhile, Ron is also attending Ben's party at the roller skating rink, and notices Donna playing an arcade hunting game. Intrigued, he decides to give it a go. Given his real life experience, he assumes it will be easy. Alas, this is not the case. He finds it is not that simple, and does poorly, something Donna teases him about. Infuriated and at his wits end, he contemplates one way to save face with Donna. He gives up on the game, and takes Donna out to the woods to show her "real" hunting, where certainly his skills and natural ability will shine through. Finally, Andy makes an unexpected surprise return to Pawnee to see April. Seeing as he only has 19 hours to spend with April before he has to go back to London, they decide to make the most of it and attend the birthday party Leslie is throwing for Ben at the roller skating rink. They have a great time, but finally it is time for Andy to go back. He gets in a taxi and says goodbye ... but then April catches Andy stopping the taxi down the street, getting out, and jumping into a dumpster instead. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will the Eagletonians prove to be a help or a hindrance to Leslie? Will Tom confront Ann about stealing Nadia's potential bear? Why did Andy jump into the dumpster? Will Ron regain some pride by showing Donna some real hunting? Does Councilman Jamm have any other dirty tricks up his sleeve? Does Ann have any advice for Tom about how to make things work with Nadia? Is Andy having problems with his job in London? Does Ron still want to go back and show that arcade game who's boss? Can Leslie manage to successfully filibuster through the entire evening? Can Nadia have a memorable night with Tom, even without the bear? Can April give Andy any advice to make him feel better? Loyal podcast viewers, tune in to see the 2nd filibuster episode. Can it top Patton Oswalt's first one from a few episodes back? Tune in to find out! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, "Ron's Retro Arcade".

S06E05 - Gin it Up May 10, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are first introduced to both Dr. Nadia Stasky and hairdresser Norman "Typhoon" Montalban! The Committee to Recall Knope is relentless, spending lots of and time and money to sling mud at Leslie. Furthermore, councilmen Jamm and Dexhart openly admit they don't like Leslie, waiting for the day when she is recalled, and to this end effectively block Leslie from doing anything productive on the City Council by tabling bills indefinitely and ending meetings early. To make things worse, an inappropriate, rather spicy tweet was sent by Donna on the official Parks and Recreation Twitter account, mistakenly thinking it was her personal account. Jamm jumps on this immediately to further ruin Leslie's reputation, trying to turn it into a media circus. When Jamm asks the responsible employee to provide a statement, Donna insists she never meant to embarrass the Parks Department and admits her personal account is set to private, so usually, her tweets are only seen by a handful of people. However, in an unfortunate twist, Jamm announces that they have somehow obtained access to Donna's private account, and are now perusing it. Meanwhile, a young, attractive doctor named Nadia Stasky inquires about reserving a park on behalf of her organization, Doctors Without Borders, with the intent of setting up a mobile hospital to provide free vaccinations. Tom takes an immediate liking to Nadia and takes on the responsibility of setting up the reservation. Unfortunately, believing she's way out of his league, Tom adopts a British accent to make him seem more sophisticated. However, it turns out Nadia's only interest is to book a park and get out of there ASAP. Desperate to stall her progress and thus keep her around longer, Tom uses the tactic of "incompetent bureaucracy", providing incorrect paperwork over and over, while constantly trying to gain her attention by putting on different suits, offering to take her out to lunch, etc. Finally, Ben talks to Ron about the will he and Leslie put together, asking him to sign as a witness, and in the course of conversation, discovers Ron does not have a will. With Ron now being a husband and father, Ben manages to talk Ron into meeting with a lawyer to have a proper will written up, warning him that without a will, most of what he owns will go to the government. During their meeting with Trevor the lawyer, Ron is EXTREMELY resistant to disclose ANY information, and only after constant cajoling and urging, he reluctantly agrees to give Trevor a ballpark figure of how much money he has. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... How did Jamm and company get access to Donna's private account? Does Tom keep his British accent? How much money DOES Ron have? Will "Twitter Watergate" truly get turned into a media circus? Can Tom manage to keep Nadia around with his stalling tactics? Will Ron listen to Ben's advice about leaving something behind for his children? What further embarrassing facts come out of Donna's private tweets? Will April try to help Tom get a date with Nadia? What do the mysterious symbols on Ron's childhood will mean? Loyal viewers, it's about to get SPICY up in here! Tune in to see just what we mean. Many thanks to our paid Public Service Announcement entitled "MoM" (Memories of Mulligan's).

S06E04 - Dopplegangers May 04, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are first introduced to former Eagletonian Craig Middlebrooks! When we last left our heroes, at the end of "The Pawnee-Eagleton Tip Off Classic", Eagleton was absorbed back into Pawnee, with the 2 cities returning to how it was in 1817. Leslie is charged with sorting the Eagleton government into their new departments, and as a result, the Parks Department takes on 4 new employees from Eagleton. Donna is paired with Craig, who is crazy and intense but loves his job and is very good at it. April is paired with Tynnyfer, who is vapid and useless. Ron is paired with Ron Dunn, who initially seems very much like Ron, thus causing Ron to like him ... at least at first. Finally, Tom is paired with ERIC, which he soon realizes is not a person, but a computer program, which stands for "Eagleton Reservation Information Center". Worst of all, this overload of employees leads to Leslie having to make some hard decisions, as she is forced to cut down the number of people on staff. While Pawnee re-absorbing Eagleton may be a brilliant move in many ways, the unfortunate reality is still that Eagleton's government lost millions of taxpayer dollars, and need someone to swoop in and clean up the obscene mess they made. Enter Chris and Ben ... auditing bros! The pair is excited to be back working as auditors, and once again have an opportunity to demonstrate their amazing teamwork via their now-infamous good cop/bad cop routine: Chris gets everyone in a good mood ... and then Ben hacks their budgets to ribbons. They really get into the task, realizing once again how well they work together, and how much fun they have. Finally, continuing the plot line brought up in the last episode, Ann and Chris are now seriously considering moving away from Pawnee to raise their child. Knowing Leslie will NOT take this well, Ann tries to strategize the perfect way to break the news to her. First, she introduces Leslie to her Eagleton equivalent, Evelyn. Once that breaks the ice, Evelyn leaves the two of them to talk ... and Ann gently tells Leslie about what she and Chris are thinking about. Before Leslie can fully react, though, Ann has several Leslie-specific distractions on hand, including, but not limited to, a giant plate full of waffles and whipped cream, and a framed picture of a shirtless Joe Biden riding a horse. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... How does each member of the gang react to their Eagleton counterparts? Are the Auditing Bros ultimately successful at slashing the Eagleton budgets? Will Ann's well thought out diversions prevent Leslie from melting down? Will Ron find a rare friend, or is this a false alarm? What can the Auditing Bros do to keep the excitement and momentum going? Are there any side effects of Leslie trying to absorb Ann's news? Seeing as there are now too many employees ... who will Leslie get rid of? Has Chris told Ben about he and Ann potentially leaving Pawnee? Can Leslie get to a point where she truly accepts that Ann is leaving? Loyal podcast viewers, what better way to improve upon our beloved Pawnee gang than to introduce their DOPPELGANGERS?!? Tune in to see how effective this was! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, "Mitchell's Mean Machines".

S06E03 - The Pawnee Eagleton Tipoff Classic Apr 25, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are introduced to Ben's calculator, "Dr. Buttons"! Still losing heavily in the recall election, Leslie uses the press conference covering the Pawnee-Eagleton Tip Off Classic to score some cheap points by slamming Eagleton. A bit later, Chris tells Ben their old boss from Indianapolis wants them to take a look into Eagleton's budget problem, something which delights Leslie to no end. At the meeting, Eagleton's city council, including Leslie's counterpart, Ingrid de Forest, prefers not to talk openly about money, instead allowing Chris and Ben direct access to their files, so they can see for themselves. They find out Eagleton's debt-equity ratio is off the charts, and they are now on the brink of an epic financial disaster. Leslie is excited, not only because this is a potential way to get Pawnee back on her side (since she "saved" Pawnee from bankruptcy, and now their worst enemy is about to collapse into bankruptcy), but also, quite simply, because it's a chance to stick it to Eagleton. To that end, while Chris and Ben legitimately want to try and help Eagleton, and come up with a viable solution, Leslie puts together a mock presentation disguised as a financial recovery plan. Either way, unfortunately for Eagleton, having borrowed everything they can from the state, Pawnee is now their only hope. Meanwhile, Ron is disturbed by the lack of privacy he has after receiving a magazine addressed to him at Diane's house, where he has lived for less than a month. Ron recruits Tom and Donna to help him get completely off the grid, although quite frankly Tom and Donna are confused as to why anyone would want that, as they LOVE the grid. Ron gets rid of his cell phone, chops up his credit cards, destroys his City Hall car park access keycard, removes his name plate from his office door, destroys his paediatrician files, and even goes around to all the diners and restaurants in town where he has set food eating records and removes his pictures. Finally, Ann and April take a road trip together to the city of Bloomington, IN. They do so for two reasons: So April can attend her orientation day for Bloomington's School of Veterinary Medicine, and so Ann can shop at some of the nicer baby stores, which far outclass what she can find in Pawnee. Ann leaves April to her orientation so she can do some shopping. However, before long, April shows up at the baby store Ann is at, apparently not a fan of the orientation and bailing almost immediately. Ann insists that April return to the orientation and complete it, but April will only do so if Ann agrees to play along with an embarrassing scheme she's concocted, where Ann pretends to be April's 65-year-old grandmother. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie succeed in getting Pawnee back on her side? Can Ron truly get completely off the grid? Will Ann agree to April's crazy scheme? Is Eagleton truly on the brink of financial disaster? Do Tom and Donna help or hinder Ron towards his goal? Will April finish her orientation? Can the Pawnee gang find a way to help Eagleton ... or they even want to? Will there be any drawbacks to Ron's efforts? Is April still on track to go to vet school? Loyal viewers, there are some big shoes to fill after the fantastic Season 6 premiere ... is this episode up to the task? Only one way to find out! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, "Cozy's Bar and Grill".

S06E02 - London Part 2 Apr 19, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the remainder of S06E02 - London Part 2! This is the episode where we get introduced to the bromance between Andy and Lord Covington (aka Lord Fancyface), Diane informs Ron that she is pregnant, Ron proposes to Diane, April goes to Vet School Orientation with Ann, Tom and Donna sleuth out the owner of Tommy Closet (the store trying to put Rent-A-Swag out of business, and Leslie accepts an award in London while creating havoc back at home....damn it Jerry...and, oh yeah, Ann is pregnant!

(DEEP BREATH)

As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie's speech go off without a hitch, or could she encounter some turbulence? Can Andy convince Lord Covington to choose Ben's proposal? Does Ron take pictures of London like Diane asked him to? What is the REAL reason Dr. Saperstein is going so hard after Tom? Will Ann and Chris decide to start telling people? Can Leslie's award change how the citizens of Pawnee see her, or will they continue to be "pee-pee-heads"? Is there anything Andy can otherwise do to help clinch the deal with Lord Fancyface? Is Ron able to talk Leslie down out of the crazy tree? Can Jean-Ralphio and Mona-Lisa help to diffuse the situation between Tom and their father? Can Ann and Chris predict how Leslie will react when she hears their news? Does Leslie's award change how SHE feels, or does she need a boost from another source? Who exactly came up with the nickname "Lord Fancyface"? Where exactly is Leslie's itinerary sending Ron? Does Tom close Rent-A-Swag, or will he continue to fight? Is all this making Ann and Chris feel overwhelmed, and if so, how do they deal with it? Loyal podcast viewers, here we go ... let's wrap up the Season 6 premiere! Can it live up to the legacy Season 5 left us with? Tune in and find out! Many thanks to our non-sponsor, 'Lagavulin Offerman Edition Scotch'! That's right this ad is on us Lagavulin! DM us for our address if you want to send us a sample bottle!

S06E01 - London Part 1 Apr 11, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we get introduced to Lord Fancyface! Picking up immediately where the Season 5 finale left off, Diane informs Ron that she is pregnant. Overwhelmed with joy and love, Ron proposes to Diane. Both wanting as small and quick a wedding as possible, they head to the 4th floor of City Hall to get married immediately. They pick up Leslie and April on their way, and with them as witnesses, Ron and Diane are pronounced husband and wife. One month later, Leslie is STILL being attacked by the "Recall Knope" campaign. Leslie attempts to fight back, but so far nothing she does is creating awareness or making a difference. Trying to think outside the box, April recently nominated Leslie for an award from the International Coalition of Women in Government, and announces some much needed good news to the gang: Leslie was one of five winners, and the awards ceremony is being held in London! One month later ... Leslie and April are in London for the awards ceremony, with Ben, Andy, and Ron also present. As Leslie prepares for the ceremony, she discovers her personal London pictures are being used by those from the "Recall Knope" campaign to insinuate she'd rather be in Europe than work through her problems in Pawnee. With the help of Ron, Leslie works past her initial instinct to fly back to Pawnee immediately. Meanwhile, Ben and Andy are in London to meet with a wealthy potential benefactor for the Sweetums Foundation. Ben and Andy meet with Lord Edgar Covington, a wealthy man from a distinguished family with lots of money and property. Ben attempts to discuss terms with Lord Covington, but it quickly becomes clear he is easily distracted and is interested in childish, trivial things ... much like Andy. In fact, Andy and Lord Covington get along very, VERY well, both having similar work ethics and mannerisms. When Ben finally gets the chance to put forward his proposal, Covington admits he has no idea what he is doing. He started the charity to do something good with his family's money but he has heard hundreds of charity pitches and isn't sure who to choose. Also meanwhile, we learn from Ron that Diane originally wanted this London trip to be their honeymoon, but when a huge wave of morning sickness took her out of the equation, she stayed home and insisted Ron go take pictures for her and try to enjoy himself. Ron grumpily agrees, but is not having a great time there. Despite this, he manages to support Leslie, and even tries to mentor her when she finds out Pawnee is still raking her over the coals at home. Leslie also gives Ron what she considers a "proper" wedding gift ... an itinerary taking him to a mystery location that she swears he'll be glad he went to. Back in Pawnee, Tom is peeved at Tommy's Closet being established across the street from Rent-A-Swag, and asks Donna to help him find out information on the unknown owner. Finding only an address, Tom drives there to find Ann and Chris entering the building - what the what? Tom races in after them and finds the pair in a room in the middle of a sonogram. At this point, Tom realizes two very important things: [a] Ann is pregnant, and [b] the person trying to ruin his business is their doctor, Dr. Saperstein ... the father of both Jean-Ralphio and Mona-Lisa. Dr. Saperstein tells Tom he is only doing it to get back at him for ruining his children's lives. Even after hearing this, Tom doesn't really get Dr. Saperstein's reasoning for going after him. Finally, Ann and Chris are together, and doing great - their relationship is better than it ever has been. As things progress, we (and Tom) end up learning one more very interesting fact ... Ann is pregnant! They're trying to keep this just their secret for now, but they're getting a little antsy to let everyone know ... As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie's speech go off without a hitch, or could she encounter some turbulence? Can Andy convince Lord Covington to choose Ben's proposal? Does Ron take pictures of London like Diane asked him to? What is the REAL reason Dr. Saperstein is going so hard after Tom? Will Ann and Chris decide to start telling people? Can Leslie's award change how the citizens of Pawnee see her, or will they continue to be "pee-pee-heads"? Is there anything Andy can otherwise do to help clinch the deal with Lord Fancyface? Is Ron able to talk Leslie down out of the crazy tree? Can Jean-Ralphio and Mona-Lisa help to diffuse the situation between Tom and their father? Can Ann and Chris predict how Leslie will react when she hears their news? Does Leslie's award change how SHE feels, or does she need a boost from another source? Who exactly came up with the nickname "Lord Fancyface"? Where exactly is Leslie's itinerary sending Ron? Does Tom close Rent-A-Swag, or will he continue to fight? Is all this making Ann and Chris feel overwhelmed, and if so, how do they deal with it? Loyal podcast viewers, here we go ... Season 6 is here! Can it live up to the legacy Season 5 left us with? Tune in and find out! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, 'Flags R Us'!

Pawnee Spotlight: Cooper Thornton Apr 05, 2023

Mark and Allen were fortunate enough to grab some talk time with Cooper in the fall of 2022, and wow - this guy has done some amazing stuff. Funny, interesting to talk to, and very humble, this interview was a delight.
Join us as the guys as they talk with Cooper about his various experience in Hollywood television and movies, his early career, and , of course, his experience with all but one of the main Parks and Recreation cast (can you guess which one?), the post-COVID casting process, and the special career advice he received from the one and only Clint Eastwood. This was a super fun, LONG overdue Pawnee Spotlight from one of our favorite guests. We hope you all like it as much as we did! Enjoy.

You can find Cooper at the any or all of the following sites:

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0861583

@thatsmecoopert on Instgram

https://cooperthornton.medium.com/

S05E22 - Are You Better Off? Mar 28, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we see the triumphant return of Bert Macklin, FBI! Founder's Week is a yearly celebration of all things Pawnee, and to prepare for the momentous day, Leslie brings her entire staff to Ron's cabin in the woods for a brainstorming session. As Leslie encourages everyone to focus and rid themselves of distractions, Tom is still dealing with the train wreck that is his girlfriend Mona-Lisa. Leslie hosts a Founder's Week public forum to help celebrate her first year in office as a Pawnee city councilwoman. To kick things off, Leslie posits the question, "Are you better off now than you were a year ago?" Immediately, however, there is hostility with Pawnee Restaurant Association spokeswoman Kathryn Pinewood speaking up against many of Leslie's changes which she feels restricts citizen's basic personal freedoms. (Or because the Restaurant Association was angry about the soda tax, so they are lashing out against Leslie for it.) Many more stand up against Leslie, and overall, the forum does not go well. Leslie finds the Founder's Week Parade to be a perfect distraction from the drama surrounding her humiliating forum. Meanwhile, while searching through the trash for his sweatshirt at Ron's cabin, Andy comes across a positive pregnancy test, which propels him to reassume his alter ego as Burt Macklin, FBI. There were five women at the cabin over the weekend, and Andy vows to figure out which one is pregnant. Andy confronts Ann first, but it's not her. She is a little annoyed that someone else got pregnant before her, though. Ann hops on board as Macklin's partner, and the two set out to find the woman behind the test. Andy and Ann rule out Donna and Leslie, leaving only Mona-Lisa ... Finally, business is booming at Rent-A-Swag, and a lawyer representing an anonymous client approaches Tom about buying the company. Tom reports back to his investors – Donna, April, Jerry, and Ron – about the opportunity, and Donna is all over the idea, but Ron thinks Tom should continue growing his business as he is clearly doing something right if he is being offered to sell. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Are there any Pawnee citizens that are pro-Leslie, or are they all against her? Is this actually Bert Macklin, or is he back from the dead as some sort of zombie-Macklin? Will Tom sell out? Will the parade go smoothly for Leslie, or will there be a twist? Will Special Agent Perkins make a good partner for Macklin, or is he truly a lone wolf? Who is the mystery client? How many Lerpisses are in this episode? Is Mona-Lisa pregnant, and if so, what has Tom done to humanity? Loyal viewers, this is it ... the Season 5 finale! Season 5 has been a non-stop action ride, and it's coming to a close here. Tune in to see how things turn out! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, the one, the only, often imitated but never duplicated, JJ's Diner.

S05E21 - Swing Vote Mar 21, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are first introduced to the possibility of a Knope Recall! Ron has proposed the city cut its funding to the Pawnee Palms Public Putt-Putt (a.k.a. "the Pawnee Palms", a.k.a. "the PPPPP", a.k.a. "the Quintuple-P"). Leslie disagrees with Ron, and tries to make sure the city council votes against it. Unfortunately, the council is locked at 2–2, with Councilman Jamm as the proverbial "swing vote". To this end, Leslie invites Jamm to the Quintuple-P for a night of mini golf. Predicting this move, Ron meets them there, not to play, but just to remind Jamm how much taxpayer money is spent each year on this place. Leslie, on the other hand, panders to Jamm's juvenile side, supplies him with snow cones and balloons, and reminds him how fun the Quintuple-P is. Enjoying the attention, Jamm decides to make Ron and Leslie play 9 holes against each other, and whoever wins, gets Jamm's vote. Meanwhile, when Ben, April and Andy have a celebratory drink at Paladino's Bar, Andy is shocked to find out Mouse Rat is playing without him (under the name "Rat Mouse"), performing songs he wrote. When Andy confronts Burly and Chang, they explain they called him numerous times over a number of weeks to try and get him to come to rehearsals, but when he never showed or responded, they still really wanted to play so they continued on without him. In response to this betrayal, Andy comes to the conclusion that he is going to retire from music and performs one final solo swan song, that night, on stage, to bid farewell to his career. Finally, having grown tired of his crazy, uncontrollable, and sometimes dangerously unpredictable girlfriend Mona-Lisa, Tom finally acts like an adult ... and asks Ann to break up with Mona-Lisa for him. Ann reluctantly agrees, but this ends up backfiring ... I mean, sure, Mona-Lisa DOES break up with Tom, but then she conscripts Ann as her bestie, focusing her "laser beams of crazy" on her instead. Desperate to find a way out of this situation, Ann insists Tom help her, who resorts to kissing Ann in front of Mona-Lisa as a guise for ending the friendship. This only makes things worse as Mona-Lisa takes this as them asking her for a threesome. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Who will win the mini-golf contest, Leslie or Ron? Will this be Andy's final swan song? Will Ann and Tom be sucked into a threesome with Mona-Lisa, or can they escape with their sanity? Will Jamm honor the contest results, or will he vote however he wants? What will Andy do with his life after he retires from music? Is Mona-Lisa's breakup with Tom permanent, or just a temporary respite? If the Quintuple-P closes, what will happen to Mr. Fuzzy-Face the gorilla? Does Andy make good nachos or not? Exactly how crazy IS Mona-Lisa? Loyal podcast viewers, this is the penultimate episode - tune in and let's finish this season strong! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor and sister company LFP World Musik: creators of "Mouse Rat, The Deluxe Edition" and "KidzPOP Covers Mouse Rat!". Order them soon on LivefromPawnee.com or pick them up at Food and Stuff!

S05E20 - Jerry's Retirement Mar 14, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where our beloved Jerry Gergich retires! Ben has talked Leslie into taking a VERY rare day off and spending it with him. However, when they learn Jerry is retiring ... THAT DAY ... their plans are put on hold, as Leslie furiously works to send Jerry off on the right note. Leslie turns to the goals Jerry originally set for himself when he was first hired ... not that ambitious, but appropriate for him, such as eating in the private city council dining room. Unfortunately, that goal and many others prove to be out of reach for various reasons. As the day rolls on, Leslie becomes worried - above all, she doesn't want Jerry to leave this job with nothing, and go home to an empty life. Finally, Leslie decides that, while they can't name a building after him (one of his original goals), they CAN name the Parks and Rec conference room after him, and she does so with a custom plaque and cake before he says his goodbyes to everyone. Meanwhile, the fertility clinic got the results back from Chris' tests. During Ann and Chris' next visit, they tell them Chris is very healthy, and, that he can give a specimen whenever he's ready, including that day. However, with the concept of artificial insemination no longer just a distant thought, Chris and Ann start to get cold feet and decide to take a few days to think things over before rushing any decisions. Ann invites Chris over to her house so that they can discuss things. Reading the pamphlets, they become rather put off by the medical, emotionless verbiage. This leads them to reminisce about their relationship, and the good times they had ... especially the good times they "physically" had. Finally, when the gang discusses the ramifications of Jerry retiring, Ron shares his philosophical theory that, since nature abhors a vacuum, the office will naturally select someone to assume the role of "punching bag". This makes everyone a little nervous, especially Tom, who takes every precaution to make sure he doesn't become the "new Jerry". Unfortunately, when Tom has a series of verbal flubs during a meeting, his worst nightmare comes true - everybody piles on, gives him a new embarrassing nickname, and makes fun of him non-stop. It gets so bad that, out of desperation, he asks Ron to hire a new intern in the hopes that the mantle of punching bag will pass onto someone else. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Does the room-naming ceremony go smoothly, or does it get "Jerry'd" up somehow? Will Chris still decide to be the sperm donor for Ann? What nickname does the gang give to Tom? Can Leslie try anything else to soften the blow of retirement for Jerry? Is there still a spark between Ann and Chris, physical or otherwise? Can Tom pass on the "punching bag" mantle to Ron's new intern? Will we see Jerry again, or is this really goodbye? Will Ann and Chris consider approaching fertility from a more "natural" route? What else can be done to help Tom avoid the fate of "the new Jerry"? Loyal viewers, we're getting close to the end of Season 5, and it's been a non-stop roller coaster ride ... will it continue with this episode? Tune in and find out! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, "Pawnee Diagnostic Imaging", or PDI.

S05E19 - Article Two Mar 07, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode with special guest star Patton Oswalt! The City of Pawnee annually celebrates the great Pawnee tea dump of 1817, but due to how the old-timey script looks, "tea" looks like "ted", so each year the city dumps a man named "Ted" into Ramsett Lake. This year, the "Ted" thrown into the lake becomes very angry, and demands Leslie address the many, many outdated laws still active in Pawnee. To this end, at the next City Council Meeting, Leslie proposes the city purge many of its old and obscure laws. However, citizen Garth Blunden is overtly against changing the laws due to historical significance, and successfully filibusters the meeting to prevent further action. Leslie implores Garth to reconsider. Garth accuses Leslie of having no respect for tradition. Finally, they decide to settle things with a wager: whoever can survive the longest living primitively at the Pawnee Historical House gets to make the other back down from their agenda. Meanwhile, now that April has been promoted to Deputy Director of Animal Control, Chris requires her to complete the Chris Traeger Management Training Seminar, or "ka-tumps". April asks Ron to help get her out of the seminar, but when Chris learns Ron has ALSO never had any management training, it backfires, with Ron getting roped in as well. As one might expect, things do not go well: Chris is overtly cheery, Ron is stoic and grumpy, April is sarcastic and snarky. Ron and Chris completely disagree on the best motivational methods, so Chris challenges Ron to see whose method works best: encouragement/appreciation/smiles (Chris), or money/fear/hunger (Ron). Finally, Ann's custom holiday with Leslie, "Breakfast Day", is coming up, and she found a waffle maker from JJ's Diner on an online auction. Unfortunately, somebody is bidding against her ... and she discovers that someone is Ben, who is shopping for a present for HIS custom holiday with Leslie, "Waffle Day". The two of them battle it out, trying to win the waffle maker, but ultimately lose to the owner of the Pawnee Pawn Shop, who they then have to deal with. While all this is happening, both Ann and Ben come to the realization that they are EXHAUSTED trying to keep up with the thoughtful but never-ending custom holidays Leslie has come up with for both of them. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Who will win their competition, Leslie or Garth? Will Ron or Chris win the competition, and what side will April be on? Who will win the coveted JJ's waffle maker? Is Garth cheating, or is he just really good at old-timey gibberish? Can Ron and Chris find a suitable mindless worker drone for their test subject? Can Ann and Ben continue dealing with all these custom holidays? Can Leslie get all the chickens out from under her dress? Will April and Ron be able to keep their conductor hats from the seminar? Loyal podcast viewers, this is competition cranked up to 11, just like in Spinal Tap! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, "Ron's One Minute Seminars", or ROMS.

S05E18 - Animal Control Feb 28, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we first visit the office of Dennis Feinstein! When Leslie and Chris visit Animal Control, they find a mis-managed department building and ineffective staff. After Chris accidentally steps on a coyote trap in the middle of the floor, he fires Harris and Brett, the stoners working there. Soon afterwards, Leslie begins discussions at a city council meeting regarding who they should hire as Director of Animal Control, but finds out the councilmen usually just take turns appointing department heads. This does not go over well with Leslie, who insists they all find suitable candidates and bring them in for consideration. This proves challenging, as the list of candidates is short (Harris and Brett even show up just hours after being fired). After throwing out numerous candidates of her own, and seeing what poor candidates the councilmen bring in, Leslie has an idea ... and surprises April by asking her to take the position. Meanwhile, Ben is in the process of getting more big companies to donate to the Sweetums Foundation, and he gets his chance after Tom organizes a meeting with Dennis Feinstein, Pawnee's premiere manufacturer of perfumes and colognes. It becomes clear quickly though that Feinstein is very shallow and has no compassion for anyone or anything. Ben feels uncomfortable with the situation, but could really use Feinstein's money to help needy people. Ben finds it difficult to discuss anything specific with Feinstein, as he rudely insults and rebuffs any attempts to come to a deal. Feinstein takes Ben, Tom and Andy Dwyer to the Pawnee Smokehouse where he continues to be rude and arrogant. Peeved at the way Feinstein is treating Ben and Tom, Andy loses his cool and calls Feinstein "a dick". Finally, after spending the night watching a movie with Diane and the kids, Ron catches whatever Zoe and Ivy had, becoming sick. Ron is determined to get past this in his own Swanson way, but Ann isn't having it, and manages to coerce Ron into going to the hospital, at this point he is examined by the curmudgeonly Dr. Harris, who tells him he has strep throat. Ann also offers the results of his blood tests, but Ron tells her he's not interested, takes Dr. Harris' prescription for penicillin, says "good day", and walks out. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Leslie maneuver April into getting the Animal Control job? Can Andy salvage the rest of their meeting with Dennis Feinstein? How does Ron's bloodwork look? Does April even WANT the Animal Control job? Will Ben manage to secure a donation from Dennis Feinstein? Will Ron be able to Swanson his way past this bout of illness? Is there another, better solution out there to the Animal Control situation? If Dennis Feinstein turns them down, are there any other donation paths to victory here? Are there any changes Ron needs to make to his life? Loyal viewers, with Harris, Brett, Dennis Feinstein, and Councilman Jamm to add to the hilarity, how can this episode go wrong? Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, the Pawnee Restaurant Association.

S05E17 - Partridge Feb 21, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are introduced to Ben's sister, Stephanie Wyatt! Leslie and Ben head to his hometown of Partridge, Minnesota, where he was mayor at the age of 18, drove the city to 30% unemployment when he attempted to create a winter sports complex called "Ice Town,", and got impeached two months later. As a gesture of goodwill, all these years later, the town is offering Ben the key to the city, a distinction given to all city mayors. Ben is pleased that the city has finally gotten over the Ice Town debacle, and starts to feel at home again. Before the ceremony, they visit Ben's sister Stephanie at her home, where Ben practices his acceptance speech. Out of nowhere, Ben suddenly falls down in pain and is taken to the hospital, where it is revealed he has kidney stones. With Ben hopped up on morphine, the doctor insists he is unable to go anywhere, and needs to stay there. Trying to salvage things, Leslie plans to go to the ceremony on Ben's behalf to accept the key to the city. Meanwhile, Ron is being sued by Councilman Jamm for punching him in the face on the night of Leslie's wedding. He later meets with Jamm and his attorneys where Ron calls upon Andy, April, and Tom as witnesses. Although well intentioned, both April and Tom provide false statements about Ron to make him look better. Ron is not happy about this, ultimately asking them to recant their original testimonies and, instead, tell the truth, even though it will likely portray Ron in a bad light. Finally, now that Chris has officially agreed to be the sperm donor for Ann's baby, both of them are taking a lot of time trying to establish exactly how compatible they will be as parents. This starts with them both taking an online parenting quiz for compatibility, at the suggestion of Ann's doctor, Dr. Van Dyne. They do NOT do well, scoring only 58%. They then proceed to attempt a myriad of other approaches, including carrying around an egg for the day, carrying around a coffee cup for the day, and finally visiting Dr. Van Dyne to help them assess the situation. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Ben escape the hospital to be there at the ceremony? How damning will April and Tom's testimonies be? What does Dr. Van Dyne think of Chris and Ann's high level of incompatibility? Will the ceremony in Partridge go smoothly, or will there be hiccups? If he loses, will Ron be able to afford the court-ordered settlements? Is there a final test Chris and Ann can take to determine if the two of them co-parenting is at all viable? Does Ben regret not meeting the Partridge city mascot, Fred The Sled? Does Councilman Jamm win the day, or can April and Tom come up with a plan to help Ron? Will Ann have to start all over with her sperm donor search? Loyal podcast viewers, whether we're in Pawnee or Partridge, Season 5 has never failed to deliver ... so far. Can it continue? Tune in and find out with our review! In lieu of a commercial, Ron is doing a PSA "The More You Know" reviewing Seven Unknown Laws of Pawnee.

S05E16 - Bailout Feb 15, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are introduced to Jean-Ralphio's twin sister, Mona-Lisa Saperstein! Leslie is shocked to learn that the Pawnee Video Dome, owned by Dennis Lerpiss, is closing, not a big surprise since video stores are closing left and right, and the Video Dome doesn't even carry mainstream movies. However, Leslie is determined to keep the business afloat and petitions the city council to declare it as a historical landmark. This sends Ron into a tailspin - there's nothing he hates more than the government meddling in private matters. Ron shows up at the city council meeting to express his feelings, stating that this is nothing more than a thinly veiled government bailout. This causes things to get dicey as several other people speak out, some agreeing with Ron, some resentful that the Video Dome was getting a hand out at all, and some wanting a hand out of their own. Meanwhile, Chris has not yet given Ann an answer regarding the "will you be my sperm-donor" question she posed to him in the last episode. Talking with Ben, Chris voices his concerns - the thought of being a father excites him, but Chris is worried he's not qualified to be a parent. Ben suggests that Chris practice his parenting skills on Tom, who could clearly use the help. After some consideration, Chris decides to go with Ben's suggestion, and ends up giving Tom some "fatherly advice" regarding his issues at Rent-A-Swag with Mona-Lisa Saperstein. While all this is going on, Ann is completely on edge waiting to hear back from Chris about whether or not he'll be her sperm donor. In synchronicity to this, Tom's company, Rent-A-Swag, is in full swing and doing well. Due to the high demand, he is forced to hire an assistant. He brings on Mona-Lisa Saperstein, the twin sister of Jean-Ralphio. Mona-Lisa slacks off on the job, and in general, Tom lets her walk all over him. After witnessing this a few times, Ben urges Tom to fire Mona-Lisa immediately. Tom has to consider Ben's advice, in addition to the "fatherly advice" given by Chris. Finally, April begrudgingly comes to Ann, asking for a favor. She's applying to veterinary school, and she needs a letter of recommendation. Ann is thrilled to finally have the upper hand in her relationship with April; she agrees to write the letter under one condition ... April has to be her friend for one whole week and do everything she says. April has no choice but to agree to Ann's terms and takes part in Ann's parade of girly activities, like manicures and boy talk. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Does Leslie's historical landmark initiative pass, or will it get squashed? How does Chris suggest Tom handle the Mona-Lisa situation? Can April put up with all of this gross Perkins-love? Can the Video Dome be saved, or will it fade away like the Blockbusters around it? What will Chris finally decide with regards to being Ann's sperm donor? Will Tom take Chris' advice, or does he go rogue with his own plan? Will Ann write the letter of recommendation for April? Will there be any negative backlash from Leslie's plan? Is there any possible way Jerry could help Chris? At the end of the episode, does Mona-Lisa still work at Rent-A-Swag? Do Ann and April ever have a genuinely sweet moment? Loyal viewers, Season 5 is an unstoppable freight train approaching your station ... all aboard! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, Strackwell Hardware.

S05E15 - Correspondents’ Lunch Feb 07, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Nick Offerman has his directorial debut! Back from her Hawaiian honeymoon with Ben, Leslie prepares for her upcoming speech at the Pawnee Correspondents' Lunch, where every year the government and media get together to roast each other ... and Leslie is determined to give it to the Pawnee Sun tabloid with both barrels. At the luncheon, Leslie confronts Pawnee Sun reporter Kim Terlando and boasts about how she's going to kick ass and take names with her speech. However, Kim is called up on stage ahead of Leslie, and when she gives HER speech, it becomes clear she somehow stole all of Leslie's jokes, leaving Leslie with nothing to present. Leslie ends up bombing on stage, and even worse, is completely perplexed as to how Kim Terlando got hold of her notes. Meanwhile, still on her quest to have a baby, Ann has chosen Chris (who just broke up with Shauna Malwae-Tweep a week ago) as her potential sperm donor. Unfortunately, Chris does not yet know this, as Ann struggles to gain the courage to speak to him about it. After avoiding several interactions with him at City Hall (and venting to Ron about her insecurities), Ann once again tries to summon the nerve to talk to Chris at the Correspondents Luncheon. However, she becomes intimidated when she not only sees Shauna present at the luncheon, but witnesses Shauna and Chris engaging in pleasant small talk ... causing her to continue to vent to Ron. Finally, Ben begins his new job as President of the Sweetums Foundation. Jessica Wicks gives Ben his first assignment: pick a charity for the company to fund. Unfortunately, she only gives Ben a day to do so, and there are hundreds of charity applications to sift through. Desperate for help, he recruits Tom, April, and Andy to help him out. April encourages Andy to do this with them, as Andy has been depressed lately after failing to become a police officer. The team generates mixed results: Tom just cares about Sweetums' fancy lunches and luxurious perks, and April (true to her nature) doesn't care a whole lot about charity ... or helping out Ben. Andy, however, gives it his best try, and actually picks out an interesting after-school music program for at-risk children. Ben is impressed by Andy's choice, and likes the idea, but is still considering other choices as well. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... How did Kim Terlando get hold of Leslie's notes? Is Shauna Malwae-Tweep a genuine concern to Ann, or just a minor annoyance? What does Ben end up choosing as Sweetums' first charity? Can Leslie get her revenge on Kim Terlando? How does Ron handle Ann constantly venting to him? Will Andy ever snap out of his depression? Were Leslie's stolen jokes at least funny? Will Ann ever summon the courage to ask Chris to be her baby daddy? Are there any donations to "Tommy's Tummy Foundation"? Loyal podcast viewers, we've got new storylines, new careers ... things continue to barrel straight ahead in the little town of Pawnee, and we're all lucky enough to have a front row seat! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, Pawnee Supersuites.

Pawnee Shorts: A Tribute to Leslie and Ben Feb 02, 2023

We know you are a giant Parks and Recreation fan otherwise you wouldn’t be here! But just in case you got lost, this episode celebrates one of the best sitcom relationships in the history of ever: Leslie Knope and Ben Wyatt.

In their recent coverage of the Season 5 episode, ‘Leslie and Ben’, Mark and Allen covered the episode that finally made them husband and wife. Spoiler alert: the guys gave this landmark episode a score of 10 Llttle Sebastians - marking only the second time in five seasons that they’ve given a perfect score! So, make sure to listen to that episode first, and then come back here and check out our special tribute based on the article ‘Parks and Recreation: Leslie and Ben are the Best‘ by Matt Fowler published the day before the episode aired in 2013 on IGN.com.

The article’s author and the guys both argue that Leslie and Ben are, if not the best, among the top few sitcom couples in the history of television. Why are they different? What makes them work? Check out this first ever special Pawnee Short and all will be revealed! Leslie and Ben, we love you and we like you! Enjoy!

S05E14 - Leslie and Ben Jan 31, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we learn Leslie lost her father when she was 10 years old! When we last left our heroes, Leslie and Ben decided to get married that very night at the gala, giving them only 2 hours to get everything ready prior to the gala's 11pm finish. The gang gathers at Ann's place for an emergency strategy meeting, and the Pawnee Chapter of the Avengers once again Assembles, as they divide and conquer the tasks in front of them: Ann (wedding dress), Ron (walk Leslie down the aisle), Ben + Chris (wedding rings), April + Andy (marriage licenses), Tom (wedding officiant), Donna + Jerry (keep gala running smoothly). As time rolls on, we see the following happen ... Since Leslie needs her dress 3 months early, it is not ready, so Ann makes some last-minute changes ... Ben and Chris have no luck with finding suitable rings, so Ron attempts to use his woodworking skills to create two rings from a wall sconce ... April + Andy successfully locate the marriage licenses at City Hall, then go to Ethel Beavers' home to have her sign it ... Tom runs into a snag, since it takes 24 hours to get a minister certification, but it turns out Jerry is actually already ordained, so the two team-up to co-host the celebration. Everything seems to be going pretty well. The gala ends, they start the wedding, everything is awesome and wonderful, until ... the gang gets "Drunk Jammed", as a very inebriated Councilman Jeremy Jamm shows up at the gala, peeved at Leslie for stealing Lot 48, and sets out to ruin everything ... by any means possible. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Does Ron successfully create the rings? How many quotes from the movie "Hitch" will Tom use during the ceremony? What does Jamm do to try and ruin everything? Does Jamm succeed, or does the gang stop him, and if so, how so? Does Leslie really see a ghostly apparition of her beloved Li'l Sebastian? Will Leslie and Ben actually get married? Podcast viewers, we double dog dare you to watch this episode without a handkerchief - it's a good 'un. No, seriously! Curious exactly HOW good? Tune in and see! In lieu of a commercial, Mark and Allen have decided to air their first ever "Pawnee Short", covering the interesting (and weird) Lerpiss dynasty within the town of Pawnee, IN. Enjoy!

S05E13 - Emergency Response Jan 26, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where the future of Lot 48 is finally decided! Leslie and Councilman Jeremy Jamm are finally going head-to-head, pitching their proposals for Lot 48 to the Planning Committee. Despite Jamm plying them with fast food during the meeting, Leslie is told in private her Pawnee Commons project is MUCH better for the town, and that they can't approve it because it is short $50,000 ... but if she can come up with that money in the next week, they'll vote for her. To this end, Leslie and Ben plan a black tie gala fundraiser, the gang all work together, things seem to be going well ... until the day of the gala, Leslie finds out the surprise annual Emergency Preparedness drill is happening, and as appointed Pawnee Emergency Czar, she must go to the Command Center immediately. The chosen simulated disaster is avian flu, which Leslie loves, since it is simple, and she's already prepared for it. Leslie attempts to breeze through the proceedings, but just when it looks like they have triumphed, Councilman Jamm (who was supposed to deal with Transit Authorities) dropped the ball, causing the epidemic to spread instead of being contained. Meanwhile, the rest of the gang does their best to get things ready for the gala: Ben coordinates things at Lot 48, including delegating tables and chairs to Donna, as well as dealing with firemen using Lot 48 as a triage center for the drill; Tom travels around Pawnee, desperately looking for caterers willing to supply free food for the event; Ron decides to take Leslie's place on Pawnee Today to promote the gala, which proves challenging once it becomes clear Joan Callamezzo is INCREDIBLY hung over, finally passing out on the floor before the interview can really get started. Meanwhile, the day has finally come for Andy to take the Pawnee PD exam. Very excited (but nervous), he makes his way to the police station, accompanied by April, who gives him a good luck charm and helps him with last minute cramming. After anxiously waiting in the lobby for Andy to finish, April finally sees him come back to the lobby, excited and confident that he did really well on the written exam! A bit later, Andy is once again taken into the back office, this time for his personality exam. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Leslie help Pawnee survive the avian flu, or is the town going the way of the dodo? How did Andy really do on his written exam? Will Ron effectively promote the gala event? Can Tom find any caterers willing to provide food for free? Is Andy prepared to take the personality exam? Where in the world did Jerry go? Does Ben talk the firemen into moving the triage center? Will Andy truly become one of Pawnee's finest? Will the gala happen, or is it destined for doom? What is "The Knope Protocol"? What is the good luck charm April gives Andy? Loyal viewers, Season 5 is on a roll ... will it continue? Stay tuned to find out, dot dot dot ... Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, Chez Chez La Rue.

S05E12 - Ann's Decision Jan 18, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Ann wants to be a mother! Empowered by her newfound independence, Ann decides to date herself for a while instead of getting swept up in a new boyfriend's personality. Six weeks into the experiment, she comes to a realization: she's ready to be a mom. It's a big decision, but she tells Leslie she's ready to go to the sperm bank and look into having a child on her own. Leslie tries to be supportive, but is quietly convinced that Ann is making a huge mistake. At the sperm bank, they run into Sewage Joe, who claims to be a frequent donor, and his patronage is enough to scare Ann off. Leslie inadvertently helps Ann realize that her ideal sperm donor should be someone she knows. With a new wave of enthusiasm, Ann narrows it down to three potential sperm donors and brings them into the office, pretending she's interviewing them for a blog. Meanwhile, Ben tries to make headway on his task for the wedding: finding a caterer. He arranges a taste testing of the three best catering companies in Pawnee, and has invited his own personal panel of experts: Chris (the veggie lover), Ron (the meat lover), and Tom (the foodie who takes photos of food instead of eating it). Ben breaks the three-way tie with his own input, deciding on the caterer who served an appetizer of "mini calzones." The day after the taste testing, Chris, Ben and Ron are all completely crippled by horrible food poisoning, and they haven't even seen Tom yet - god knows what this is doing to that poor little bird-like man. Finally, while Leslie is busy with her councilwoman duties, April is tasked with her worst nightmare: leading a public forum for the Pawnee Commons every day that week. She decides the best way to survive the ordeal is to imitate Leslie; she even dons one of Leslie's famous pantsuits to tackle the task. But Leslie's chipper methods just aren't suitable for April, and the first meeting quickly spirals out of her control. April tries to persist, continuing to channel Leslie, but with little or no success. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie try to take control of the situation? What ended up happening to Tom? How does April get along with the crazy Pawnee residents? Who are Ann's three potential sperm donors? Do they ever figure out the exact source of the food poisoning? Can April figure out how to effectively handle the public forum? Does Ann end up picking a winner? Who does Ben end up selecting as the wedding caterer? What is Andy's mistake that stresses out April, but provides great snacks? Loyal viewers, whip yourself up a tasty dish, tune your podcast dial, and come along on our journey! Have we ever let you down before? Many thanks to our fantastic sponsor, often imitated but never duplicated ... JJ's Diner.

S05E11 - Women in Garbage Jan 10, 2023

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Ron says "I love you" to Diane! Realizing there is a criminal lack of women in their government, Leslie decides it is time to do something about it. She meets with Chris, and he wholeheartedly agrees, arranging a meeting to discuss a course of action. During the male dominated meeting, Leslie points out the number one offender of gender inequality is the sanitation department, who acknowledges there are no female garbage collectors, but points out the job is too physically demanding for the average woman. Rising to the challenge, Leslie and April gear up and work a route the next day. They start off well, working quickly and beating the average man's time! However, just as they are becoming confident, they end up getting an "unscheduled request" ... Meanwhile, back at the Parks Department, we see Ron with both of Diane's kids (Zoe and Ivy) in his office. He has apparently agreed to babysit them for the day, and appears to be a bit over his head. Ron even looks to Ann for help, but she is very awkward and not very good with kids. At day's end, Diane asks Ron to babysit again the next day, and while Ron puts on a brave smile, he's clearly worn and ragged. That's why, shortly into day two, he once again reluctantly recruits Ann's help, despite her seeming to have no connection with children. Surprisingly, Ann starts to have some success with Zoe and Ivy when she whips out her nurse's kit and they all play doctor with stuffed animals ... Finally, wanting to do everything in his power to bring in more business for Rent-A-Swag, Tom recruits Andy and Ben to teach him everything they know about basketball, since it seems to be all the kids (i.e. his clients) are talking about these days. To this end, they get on the court, where Andy and Ben start with the basics. However, it becomes very clear that Tom is hopeless. After some "questionable" training, Tom decides it would be a great idea to challenge a group of pre-teens to a basketball game. (This could only go poorly.) As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Why is April so gung-ho to help Leslie? Does Ann continue to have success with Zoe and Ivy? Can Tom, Ben, and Andy make a good showing playing basketball with the pre-teens? What is the unscheduled request Leslie and April have to deal with? Can Ron survive a second day of babysitting? Does Tom ever learn to "do basketball"? Can Leslie and April keep up their momentum? Will the stuffed animals all survive surgery? Will any of this craziness result in more business for Rent-A-Swag? Viewers, get yourself a tasty snack and strap in - this is gonna be a good'un! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, Hanson's ... er ... PERKINS' Day Care.

Happy New Year 2023 from Live from Pawnee! Jan 01, 2023

Join us for a message from the man, the myth, the legend...Ron [BEEP]ing Swanson himself! Recorded in the Swanson cabin (geo-location undisclosed), this is a Live from Pawnee exclusive to kick off your 2023 and put the continued dumpster fire that was 2022 in the rearview mirror! We hope you take a minute to listen , lookback briefly and look forward, with hope, to a better 2023!

From Ron and all of us at Live from Pawnee and the LFP Worldwide Headquarters, we wish all of you, our viewers, a very Happy and Safe New Year!

S05E10 - Two Parties Dec 07, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that reveals where Jerry met his wife Gayle! Ann is preparing for Leslie's bachelorette party with what might be considered "typical" choices: dancing, Jell-O shots, strippers, anything that can be penis shaped WILL be penis shaped - you know, the usual. Unfortunately, despite Ann's diligent efforts, Leslie is not able to enjoy things when it is revealed that Councilman Jamm (in conjunction with Pawnee Restaurant Association spokeswoman Kathryn Pinewood) is moving forward with his plans to turn Lot 48 into a new Paunch Burger restaurant. Desperate to counter this unexpected move by Jamm, Leslie contrives a plan to litter the pit with what she hopes will pass as sacred Wamapoke artifacts, thus halting all construction on the lot. Unfortunately, she quickly realizes she's made a horrible mistake, confesses her mess to the girls, and recruits them to help her fix it. Meanwhile, Chris is preparing for Ben's bachelor party, which, at Ben's request, is going to be very low-key, essentially beer and board games. The guys gather at Ben's house to indulge him in a game of Settlers of Catan. When finished, Tom convinces the guys to visit Eagleton's hot new molecular mixology bar, Essence. While there, they chat and realize none of them got to experience their own bachelor party. In a moment of inspiration, Chris declares that tonight, everyone gets their own bachelor party experience, custom tailored to them, and whatever they want to do. While this seems great on paper, some of the requests get a little complex. Not only that, but poor Chris doesn't have a chance to have his moment in the spotlight, as he's never been married. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Does Leslie come clean to Ken Hotate? Can Chris pull off everyone's bachelor party requests? Will Councilman Jamm and Kathryn Pinewood get their Paunch Burger site? What do the guys do to show their appreciation to Chris? What is the "Gettysburg Undressed"? Is there actually a "wrong way" to consume alcohol? Loyal viewers, Season 5 so far as been a freight train of goodness ... will this episode continue the trend? Only one way to find out! Many thanks to our wonderful NEW sponsor, St. Elmo's Steak House!

S05E09 - Ron and Diane Nov 24, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduced us to not only Jerry's wife Gayle, but also his two other daughters, Miriam and Gladys! When Ron gets an award nomination from the Indiana Fine Woodworking Association for a chair he made, he actually looks forward to the event, and plans to take his girlfriend Diane. As Ron's "self-appointed emotional guardian", Leslie invites herself to support him. Ron and Diane arrive at the ceremony, and Leslie is very excited to finally meet Diane. As Ron inspects all the wood-working equipment like a kid in a candy store, Leslie attempts to get to know Diane, cheerfully peppering her with questions and conversation. After being with Diane for a while, Leslie thinks she's perfect for Ron, and happily tells him so. But just as Leslie is thinking how great things are going for Ron ... who should show up ... but she-who-must-not-be-named ... the being known as ... "Tammy 2". Clearly there to once again mess with him, Tammy beelines for Ron. Leslie ushers her away and warns her not to screw with tonight. Not only does Tammy ignore Leslie's warning, but she goes so far as to arrange a seat for herself at Ron, Diane, and Leslie's reserved table in order to further torment Ron. Meanwhile, Tom, April, Andy, and Donna are planning their annual, sacred December event: "Jerry Dinner". Anytime Jerry does something stupid, they put a dollar in a box, and spend the resulting money on a nice evening out (this year they collected over $500). When Ann learns what they're doing, she tells them how mean this is, but she's dismissed by the group. While en route to Jerry dinner, Donna has a change of heart, saying they should at least invite Jerry to go with them. She turns the car around, drives to Jerry's house ... where they find a large-scale Christmas party in progress, with Ann, Chris, and Ben in attendance. The four of them end up out in the cold, huddled outside a window, peering in at the festivities, and wondering why they weren't invited. Finally, since Leslie is going to Ron's event, Ben is flying solo that night, and takes the opportunity to make plans with Chris to hang out. They decide to both go to the Gergich Christmas Party, for which they both have invitations. During the party, Ben witnesses several things happen that, earlier in the year, would have likely had Chris facing another mental breakdown. However, Ben is pleasantly surprised to find Chris rather level-headed with no visible signs of distress. Chris even goes so far as to look at an old picture of Millicent Gergich, whom he previously dated, with nothing but smiles and good feelings. So far, so good ... As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Ron win an award for ... "chair"? Can these 4 "meanies" figure out why they never received an invitation from Jerry? Will Ben finally get to meet Jerry's wife Gayle? Will Diane end up winning Ron's heart? Does Ann have any sympathy for the "meanies"? Does Chris keep calm when Millicent shows up ... with her fiance? Will Tammy win an award for Ron's ... er ... wood? What penance must the "meanies" perform in order to get invited into the Gergich Christmas party? What fascinating fact does Chris learn about full-fat eggnog? Loyal podcast viewers, this one is not only a great episode, but a great CHRISTMAS episode! Don't believe us? Tune in and see for yourselves. We dare you. We double-dog-dare you. Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, Cozy's Bar.

S05E08 - Pawnee Commons Nov 10, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduced us to a new April alter ego! After asking the public for park design submissions for Lot 48, Leslie receives only one decent submission ... from one Mr. Wreston St. James ... who lives ... in Eagleton. As you might expect, Leslie wants to reject him outright, but Ben convinces her to at least meet with Wreston before making a decision. They do so, in a beautiful Eagleton park (some of Wreston's handywork), and discover Wreston is very cheerful and enthusiastic. Ben loves him. Leslie hates him. Wreston assures them he's on the up and up, and that it's about the people - as it should be - but Leslie doesn't trust him for a second. After meeting with Wreston in City Hall, Leslie ends up being very rude to him. Taking Leslie aside, Ben insists she move past her hatred for Eagleton, apologize to Wreston, and agree to have him be the architect for the park on Lot 48. Meanwhile, Tom asks the gang to help him refurbish his new Rent-A-Swag store. Although it's a fixer-upper, the gang gets to it, and Tom initially impresses them with his cool, calm demeanor. He thanks them appreciatively, and compliments their hard work. At the end of a long day, with Rent-A-Swag's facelift finally complete ... it definitely looks better ... but still far from great. Tom thanks them one last time, but the gang start to see the cracks in his armor, as he gives them a pizza party with one small topping-less pizza, 2 cans of soda, and yells for them to turn off the lights to save electricity. Finally, Andy begins his new job as weekend security guard. However, he quickly gets bored and asks April to join him and keep him company. This starts a classic round of role playing, with Andy bringing out his crime-fighting alter ego, Burt Macklin, and April playing ... a new villain. While in the midst of their cat-and-mouse game, Andy and April come across a new player in the game ... a small, nervous boy named Joey, who got separated from his mother in City Hall. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Leslie manage to apologize to Wreston St. James? Will Rent-A-Swag ever get off the ground? Who is April's new alter ego, and can Macklin defeat her? Will Wreston double-cross Leslie and Ben? Can Tom avoid having a cheapskate meltdown? Is Joey actually a child spy, sent to derail Macklin's investigation? Why are there palm trees in Eagleton? Why is Chris working on a stairway to nowhere? Will this be Burt Macklin's final case? Podcast viewers, this one has a ton of important and interesting plot points - tune in to see how everything gets reconciled! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, from Pawnee Public Radio, the new interview show "3Q's and an A" with Derry Murbles.

S05E07 - Leslie vs April Oct 27, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that was responsible for first casting then Vice-President Joe Biden! April practices her presentation with Leslie on her proposed dog park for Pawnee. However, the two clash heads after April suggests the dog park be located at Lot 48, a lot Leslie has been trying to create a park at, for four years. Leslie suggests April find a new location, but they are all clearly not suitable. Leslie tries desperately to distract April from her dog park agenda, but April stays the course, and informs Leslie she has the support of Councilman Jeremy Jamm to place her dog park at Lot 48, both angering and worrying Leslie. Meanwhile, Ben has just accepted a job at Barney Varmn's accounting firm, Tilton and Radomski Accounting. When Tom asks him to assist him with the accounting side of his new business venture, Rent-A-Swag, Ben agrees to help Tom, but only as a friend. Tom and Ben meet with several people throughout Pawnee, each time Ben pitching either Tom or his company. Unfortunately, each time Tom is turned down, while apropos of nothing, Ben's talents are recognized, with Ben receiving several job offers. Tom cannot believe Ben's luck, and is kind of upset Ben is getting all these opportunities, when he and Rent-A-Swag are not. Finally, Andy has asked his co-workers to steal things from his desk so he can practice for the police academy entrance exam, part of which will involve how to investigate a crime. When Andy comes in to work one morning and notices his laptop missing, he becomes excited and starts his investigation right away. Andy interrogates several members of the gang, finally getting to Chris, who tells Andy another computer was reported stolen, and he believes City Hall was actually robbed. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Councilman Jamm be trusted? How will Ben enjoy working at Tilton and Radomski Accounting? Will Chris and Andy find the computer thief? Will April and Leslie resolve their differences? Will Tom give up Rent-A-Swag? How does Chris end up trying to help out Andy? What one last thing does Ben do before he leaves Washington DC? Why does Andy keep taking his shirt off? What is ... the "Human Farm"? Loyal podcast viewers, we've said it before, and we'll say it again ... Season 5 shows no signs of slowing down! Tune in and see if you agree! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, The Pawnee Police Department.

S05E06 - Ben's Parents Oct 13, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces us to Ben's parents, Julia and Steve! Leslie and Ben announce their engagement to the gang and go through engagement party details with Ann, although Ben is nervous about his parents coming because they are divorced and hate each other. When Ben's parents arrive, all hell breaks loose. Ben's father, Steve Wyatt, brings his much younger girlfriend, Ulani, whom Ben's mother, Julia Wyatt, completely detests. The two waste no time taking shots at each other, and their catty behavior becomes completely unbearable. Leslie does her best to diffuse the situation, but Ulani's presence was something Leslie and Ben hadn't predicted. Finally, Leslie calls upon the thing she is sure will fix everything ... her masterpiece: the Knope-Wyatt Unity Quilt. Meanwhile, Tom and Jean-Ralphio are preparing to pitch Tom's idea, "Rent-A-Swag", to Ron, who is considering investing some start-up money. After a flashy, loud, ridiculous rehearsal in front of April and Andy, April convinces them they need to start over and tailor their pitch to Ron - simply, to the point, etc. At the engagement party, Ron learns Tom is partnering with Jean-Ralphio ... a fact that does not make him happy. Determined to make the pitch work for Ron, Tom prepares to pull an all-nighter, but Jean-Ralphio lazily implies he has no interest in the project, and instead wants to go clubbing. Finally, when Leslie and Ben's engagement was announced, Chris was very happy for them, yet disproportionately affected by this news. Later, at the engagement party, and feeling raw from his therapy sessions, Chris has an emotional breakdown, happy for his friends, but depressed because he's alone. Desperate to not let Chris' unexpected happy-sad outburst ruin the engagement party, Ann, April, and Andy try their best to comfort and contain the delirious, giggling, blubbering mess that is Chris Traeger. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Leslie convince Ben's parents to get along? Will Ron like Tom's business pitch? Can Champion, the 3-legged wonder dog, help Chris out of his funk? Will Leslie's mother, Marlene Griggs-Knope, make things better or worse? Can Tom be successful partnering with Jean-Ralphio again? Will Chris be able to get past this outburst and start clean? Does the Knope-Wyatt Unity Quilt save the day? What new idea does Jean-Ralphio come up with? Is Dave Matthews Band considered a "good" thing, or a "bad" thing? Podcast viewers, tune in for another great episode, and also to support Benslie! Hopefully they can make it past this. Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, Pawnee "What If".

S05E05 - Halloween Surprise Sep 29, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that shows us the origin of Tom's "Rent-A-Swag" business idea! When Diane Lewis invites Ron to go trick or treating with her and her daughters, he initially declines, but an excited Andy wants to join them, and gets Ron to agree. That night, Ron and Andy go trick-or-treating with Diane and daughters Zoe and Ivy, but in the middle of it, Diane gets a call about some sort of "vice-principal emergency". Fortunately, Andy assures Diane (to her relief) that he and Ron will continue taking the girls trick-or-treating while she deals with the emergency. Unfortunately, Ron's attempts to provide direction and counsel for the young girls goes ... let's say poorly ... ruining their Halloween. Diane leaves Ron an angry voicemail, causing him to reflect that ... maybe ... he isn't ready for an entire family. Meanwhile, Leslie (with bestie Ann as support) is viewing houses in preparation for she and Ben to move in together when he returns from DC. In DC, Ben announces the campaign he's been working on is complete, and they have won! April leaves immediately because, why not, while Jennifer Barkley talks to Ben about what he's doing next, and offers him the opportunity to work on another campaign. When Ben relays this to Leslie, he promises that nothing is set in stone, and everything is still preliminary ... but Leslie still feels like everything is now topsy-turvy, the future is very uncertain, and has no idea what will happen with her and Ben. Finally, Chris announces to the gang that for Halloween, the City Manager's office will be throwing a scary movie night in the courtyard, specifically a screening of the 1986 horror camp classic, "Death Canoe 4: Murder at Blood Lake". Excited about just receiving a "Most Improved Patient" award from his therapist, Dr. Richard Nygard, Chris has become more introspective, and has decided to "face his fears", so to speak. For Chris, this means attending the scary movie night dressed up as his greatest fear. During the scary movie night, Leslie talks with Ann regarding Ben's situation, and Ann tries to cheer up Leslie by having them both scare Tom when he comes out of the bathroom. They do so, but instead surprise Jerry, apparently causing him to have a mild heart attack. Jerry is rushed to the hospital, where Ann confidently assures everyone Jerry will be fine, and Jerry is in a good mood, except a bit worried about the medical bills. To help out Jerry, Leslie arranges for the Parks Department to hold a garage-sale-slash-fundraiser to help pay hospital expenses. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Jerry really be okay? Can this be the end for Ron and Diane? Does Leslie end up leasing the house? What is Chris' greatest fear? What items does the gang bring to the fundraiser? Is there some sort of gift Ron can bring for the girls? Will Ben take the job in Florida? Why did Dr. Richard Nygard give Chris his "Most Improved Patient" award? What is the deal with Ann's "ex-boyfriend" boxes? Loyal podcast viewers, Season 5 seems to keep getting better and better ... will this episode continue the trend? Only one way to find out - tune in and see how we score it! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, The Pawnee Mystery Closet.

Pawnee Spotlight: Mary Faber Sep 22, 2022

Mark and Allen recently had the pleasure of catching up with the one and only Kathryn Pinewood - AKA Mary Faber! Check out the full interview with the terrific and multi-talented character and voice actor this week!
Join the guys as Mary shares many stories and answers many questions about her career including reminiscing about her experience on Parks and Rec, performing on Broadway and in the irreverent Avenue Q, as well as her voice work featured in both Disney and Marvel properties.
This is a great interview that the guys really enjoyed a lot and Mary was a great and gracious guest! Tune in and see what she has to say - you won't be disappointed!

Check out Mary's website at http://maryfaber.com and check out her Instagram @maryfaber while you're at it!

S05E04 - Sex Education Sep 14, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces Marcia Langman's husband Marshall! With STDs running rampant among Pawnee's senior citizens, Leslie decides to give a sexual education seminar, and asks Ann, Donna, and Andy to help out. Things are going well until Leslie's seminar is stopped by Marcia Langman (and her husband Marshall) from the Society for Family Stability Foundation. When the Langmans claim the seminar is against the law, Leslie and gang protest that abstinence-only sex education applies only to schools, but Chris reveals the law in question was drafted so that it applies not just to schools, but citywide, and Leslie's seminar is shut down. With the Langmans breathing down her neck, seemingly with overwhelming public support, Leslie is hesitant to put up a fight ... but at the next seminar, knowing her bestie Ann supports her, Leslie finds herself unable to go along with the Langmans' abstinence-only view, and ends up defiantly throwing handfuls of condoms into the audience ... much to the seniors' delight. Meanwhile, after a car accident due to phone use while driving, Tom is taken to court and sentenced to one week without looking at any electronic screen. Seeing Tom struggle without technology, Ron decides to take Tom to his cabin in the woods so he can "detox". Thinking Tom just needs to get it "out of his system", Ron invites Tom to share with him everything he does with technology on a daily basis ... which takes an entire day. Later, Tom asks for Ron's keys to go buy steaks ... but instead ... drives to Best Buy and purchases another cell phone ... a fact he is not able to hide from Ron. Finally, Ben and April meet Congressman David Murray, whose reelection campaign they are working on. Immediately, April becomes a bit disturbed by Congressman Murray's almost robotic-like manner and becomes convinced ... he may actually be a robot. When April confides in Ben, he initially scoffs at the ridiculous notion ... but as the day goes on ... even Ben becomes put off by Murray's complete lack of personality, rampant use of generic friendly chat, and non-offensive political talk. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Does Chris reprimand Leslie for her actions? How does Ron find out about Tom's new cell phone? Can April convince Ben the congressman is actually a robot? Will Mayor Gunderson reprimand Leslie for her actions? Will Ron turn in Tom to the judge for breaking his sentence? What do others on the congressman's team think of his robotic nature? Can Leslie turn things around by going on-air with Perd Hapley? What will Ron ask Tom to do to make amends? Is this the dawn of ... the rise of the machines? Why the hell has Ann turned into a cowgirl? Loyal podcast viewers, the Season 5 train is chugging along and doesn't show signs of stopping! Join us for a thoroughly enjoyable episode. While we don't have a sponsor spot this week, we do have a PSA addressing supply chain issues from the OG, the GOAT...Mr. Ron Swanson! Enjoy!

S05E03 - How a Bill Becomes a Law Sep 09, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Ron finally meets Diane, This Ben and April decide to take a Road Trip to Pawnee, and Leslie tries to pass her "Fun in the Sun" act. Unfortunately, a combination of garish rouge blush, a very common DC event, and a self-centered Councilman/Dentist put a crimp in everyone's respective plans!

Tune in to hear the guys cover Potholes, Princesses, Presidential motorcades and Invisalign's as they walk us through this classic Season 5 Episode: "How a Bill Becomes a Law"! You'll be glad you did!

We wish to also thank this week's unofficial sponsor, Pawnee 311, as we go behind-the-scenes for the making of their staff training video hosted by yours truly, the one and only Ron Swanson!

S05E02 - Soda Tax with Mary Faber Aug 25, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Leslie proposes her first bill to tax the city's sodas, hoping to discourage citizens from drinking them. She meets with Pawnee Restaurant Association spokeswoman Kathryn Pinewood to discuss the terms of her bill and to question the reasoning behind the city's growing drink sizes. Kathryn warns Leslie that if her bill passes, local restaurants will suffer, causing massive job losses. Kathryn goes on to say that if Leslie doesn't vote against the bill, a press release will be issued, putting the blame solely on Leslie for the layoffs. This puts Leslie in the middle of a moral conundrum: vote her conscience and risk job layoffs, or save jobs by going against her gut. Meanwhile, Ben and April are still settling into their new environment in Washington DC, with Ben trying to get his interns in line, while April remains her irreverent self, putting in minimal effort. Displeased with his interns' behavior, Ben attempts to be more assertive, but to no avail. After seeing crude, mocking drawings of him on the wall, Ben calls his boss Jennifer Barkley to request intern changes, but upon realizing how connected they all are, he changes his tactics and attempts to "kiss their asses" instead by ordering pizza and setting up frisbee games. Finally, Chris and Tom volunteer to help Andy get into shape for his police entrance exam, which is 3 months away. Chris and Tom coach Andy during his two-mile run at Pawnee Community College, which must be done in less than 25 minutes. When Andy's first attempt takes around 30 minutes, Chris asks Andy why he wants to be a policeman. After coming up with a good reason ("do it for April"), it serves to motivate Andy, but depresses Chris, as he realizes his reasons for keeping fit are purely physical. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... How will Leslie vote on the bill? Does April ever rise up above minimum effort? Can Andy complete 2 miles in under 25 minutes? Is Kathryn Pinewood bluffing? Can Ben find his way into the interns' hearts by ordering pizza and rocking scoobers? Will Chris snap out of his depression? Why do they call their 512-ounce cup a "Child Size"? Who is drawing pictures of Ben, and will it stop? What changes does Tom make to the pace car? Podcast viewers, Season 5 shows no signs of slowing down! Tune in to enjoy this episode with us, and then stick around for a sneak preview of our interview with the talented actress behind Kathryn Pinewood herself, Mary Faber! Many thanks to our sponsor, the Pawnee Restaurant Association.

Pawnee Spotlight: Dorian Frankel Aug 17, 2022

Mark and Allen are in the studio this week working on the latest Season 5 Episodes and will be back with a new episode next week! Recently, they were fortunate enough to chat with Dorian recently and dive into her experiences as a casting director, as well as an actress and a singer! Check out the full exclusive interview with Dorian this week ... as charming and interesting a guest as we've ever had on the show.
This was a really fun interview from a perspective many people don't often think about. The guys got to learn about the casting process and get some background on how their favorite Parks and Recreation guest stars were cast. Dorian was a wonderful and gracious guest, willing to dish on whatever questions we had for her. Tune in and see for yourself!

Check out Dorian's website at https://dorianfrankel.com/

S05E01 - Ms. Knope Goes to Washington Aug 11, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Leslie Knope first meets John McCain (even though she doesn't realize it)! Leslie and Andy are visiting Washington, D.C., to see Ben, who accepted a temporary job there for a congressional re-election campaign, and April, who decided to join Ben as his intern. Thrilled to be in the nation's capital, Leslie also hopes to secure federal funding to clean the Pawnee River, but her optimism is dulled when she is unable to meet with anyone at the United States Department of the Interior, resulting in her proposal being tossed into a giant pile with numerous other unread proposals. Ben invites Leslie, April and Andy to a cocktail party that night, but Leslie becomes intimidated by the numerous tall, smart, successful women that Ben works with every day, and feels her position on the Pawnee City Council is feeble in comparison. Meanwhile, back in Pawnee, Ron has an announcement for the gang. THE GOOD NEWS? With Leslie absent, he will take over the "Leslie Knope Employment Enjoyment Summer Slam Grill Jam Fun-Splosion", an annual barbecue for the Parks department. THE BAD NEWS? He plans to make it only about meat, with no other types of foods, or even any activities. During the event, Ron brings a live pig named Tom that he is planning to slaughter and cook right then and there, but is (thankfully) informed that it violates numerous laws. An annoyed Ron makes a trip to Food N Stuff, getting pounds of meat which will take several hours to cook, refusing to buy any other food for his hungry and bored subordinates. Chris notices the frustration of the Parks department and repeatedly gives Ron suggestions to improve the barbecue, but the stubborn Ron ignores him. Finally, at the employee appreciation barbecue, Tom and Ann appear to still be together. However, we quickly learn via talking head that they have LONG since broken up, they are pretending to still be together since everyone was so smug about it not lasting, and Tom apparently made a $1000 bet with Donna that they would still be together in another month. As the barbecue drags on, we see Ann having a tough time keeping up their ruse due to Tom being ... well ... Tom. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Which people on Leslie's List of Amazing Women does Ben introduce her to? Can Ron turn things around and make the employees feel appreciated? Is there anything Tom WON'T add glitter to? Who tries to comfort a spiraling Leslie in the coat closet? How does Chris handle things with Ron later? How does Ann retaliate for Tom's glitter-based offenses? Can Leslie snap herself out of this funk, and if so, how so? Whatever happened to Pig Tom? Who will win the bet between Donna and Tom? Loyal podcast viewers, welcome to Season 5 of Parks and Recreation. Please keep your hands and feet inside the car at all times. Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, "Food N Stuff".

Pawnee Spotlight: Andrew Burlinson Aug 04, 2022

Mark and Allen recently had the pleasure of catching up with the one and only Burley - AKA Andrew Burlinson - a few months ago. Check out our full interview with Andrew this week - he is friendly, down-to-earth guy with a great story, and a lot of fun to talk with. What's not to like?
Join the guys as Andrew shares many stories and answers many questions about his career including reminiscing about his experience on Parks and Rec, playing in the most Awesome-Sauce band in America - Mouse Rat - along with his other work since and also his earlier gigs, some of which involved an extraordinary amount of Blue Paint!
This is a great interview that the gang really enjoyed a lot! After all, who in their right mind wouldn't get excited at the prospect of interviewing a Mouse Rat band member?!? Tune in and see what Andrew has to say - you won't be disappointed!

Check out And rew's website at http://gentlemanrockstar.com while you're at it!

Special End of Season 4 Grab Bag With Andrew Burlinson Jul 29, 2022

As the name would suggest, this week Mark and Allen are grabbing a little of this, some of that, a bunch of who-knows-what from over there, and calling it a show ... it's a GRAB BAG! We start off with introductions, followed by Constantine's new segment. We then have some in-depth (well, in-depth for US) analysis on Season 4, how it compares to other seasons, and what we thought of it in general. Finally, we end the show with a heartfelt tribute to everyone's favorite band, Mouse Rat! Stick around, you'll be glad you did. Or not. Makes no difference to us. We're just here for the snacks. (EDIT BY CONSTANTINE: Way to advertise, idiots ...)

S04E22 - Win, Lose or Draw Jul 20, 2022

It's time to talk about the Parks and Recreation Season 4 Finale! That's right, this week Mark and Allen break down the long-awaited Episode where the City Council race finally comes to a end! Election Day has arrived - all the hard work, all the long nights, all the sacrifices, it's all come down to this. The gang is pumped, excited, and a little stressed, as the latest polls have Leslie and Bobby Newport neck-and-neck with each other. As the day proceeds, Leslie tries her best to keep her crowd pumped up, while also trying to distract herself and not freak out, as more and more of the polling results come in. Late into the day, the Leslie Knope crowd gathers in, as the final results are reported ... Meanwhile, Jennifer Barkley was so impressed with the way Ben handled Leslie's campaign, that she offers him a job working for a congressional reelection campaign in Washington DC, but if he takes it, he'll have to leave in two days, and be there for six months. Despite all the election craziness going on, Ben discusses it with Leslie, who is a bit upset, since it would mean Ben moving away just as their lives return to normal. With both Leslie and Ben conflicted about the Washington job offer, they both seek advice from others as they try to come to some sort of conclusion and agreement. Finally, as election day preparations go underway, Andy gets a call from a panicked April, asking for his help. Apparently, April was tasked to do something with files, blah blah blah, it froze, blah blah blah, she got annoyed, blah blah blah ... and she accidentally deletes all of the department's files on ALL the computers ... blah blah blah. Andy tries his "best" to help (which, you know, is only worth so much), but fails to retrieve the files. April is freaking OUT. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... What final voter machine shenanigans do the Newports try? How does Ann attempt to distract Leslie? What advice does Ann give to Leslie? Who does Andy end up calling to help out April? What advice does Ron give to Ben? Do they recover the files? Does April get fired? Will Ben accept the job offer? Can our gal, Leslie Knope, pull off victory? Loyal podcast viewers, this is it, the Season 4 finale - we PROMISE you won't be disappointed! Don't miss out. As a bonus, stay tuned during the break for a very special feature involving Bobby Newport attack ads!

S04E21 - Bus Tour Jul 07, 2022

They're back! Join us this week Mark and Allen break down the penultimate episode of Season 4! Leslie is only 2-points behind Bobby Newport going into the last day of the Campaign. Listen as Leslie, Ben, April, Andy and Jerry board the S.S. Knope (a giant RV with Leslie's face all over it and future home of Benslie) and hit as many last minute stops as possible while avoiding Political boobytraps set by Bobby and his Campaign manager Jennifer Barkley! Also aboard the S.S. Knope, Andy (in his Bert Macklin persona) works to solve the mystery of a pie-attack earlier in the Campaign using Jerry and several dozen pies to recreate scene of the attack. Meanwhile Ron, Tom and Donna, visit BBB Auto and it's lovely owner (jerk) Bill Butler who, despite having taken their money previously is now refusing to rent vans to the Knope Campaign who needs them to help Seniors get out to the polls on Election day. Did we mention Bill is a top-class jerk-nozzle? And, finally, Chris occasionally joins the gang on the S.S. Knope but is more often biking, cleaning, running errands and anything else that will keep him "out of his dark place"! We feel you Chris! As you would expect, we tackle ALL of the tough questions this week, like ... Can the Bus Tour team avoid political pitfalls and close the 2-point gap in Bobby's lead? Can Ron, Tom and Donna convince Bill Jerk-weed Butler come around and be a man of his word? Will Andy identify the Lone Pie-man before Jerry drowns in whipped cream? And, last but not least, will Chris find something to finally help keep his mind off of his failed relationships? Tune in to....yeah, you know the drill! Many thanks to BOTH of our sponsors this week: "The Committee to Elect Bobby Newport" and "The Friends of Leslie Knope 2012".

Pawnee Spotlight: Kimberly Wannop Jun 22, 2022

Mark and Allen had the pleasure of catching up with Emmy Award-Winning Set Decorator Kim Wannop a few backs and got a chance to learn about the art of Set Decoration including her work on Parks and Recreation Seasons 2-7.
Join the guys as they chat with Kim about her work on long running shows like Parks and Recreation, Veep, The Good Place and Bones as well as movies like Fanboys and Moxie. Kim has a lot to share about her career in the Art Department and we got a chance to learn about a whole new piece of the storytelling puzzle going a little deeper behind the camera than we have to date.
So, strap on your ear-goggles and settle in for a very interesting interview, not only with a terrific and talented guest, but from a perspective that too often doesn't get the attention and credit it deserves. Tune in and see for yourselves!

PS, we wanted to let everyone know that with Summer now in full swing, Mark and Allen will be taking a little time off and working a new project (hint, hint: it might be another podcast) so you might see a slight, occasional change to a bi-weekly release schedule for a while. The guys will talk more about this on the next episode. So, stay on the lookout for updates!

S04E20 - The Debate Jun 09, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode we finally see Leslie and Bobby Newport go toe to toe! The day of the debate is finally here. Ben gives everyone final assignments, and helps Leslie continue to prepare for the debate. Before the debate starts, they discover Bobby Newport is freaking out, thinking this may be good news. The debate starts. Leslie is prepared and confident, but Newport campaign manager Jennifer Barkley is strangely calm. As the debate rolls on, 3 things become apparent: 1) Bobby is spouting a combination of broad prepared answers, combined with bouts of utter nonsense. 2) Bobby is still charming, his nonsense is largely unoffensive, and the crowd (including moderators Perd Hapley and Joan Callamezzo) seems to be swayed in his direction. 3) Leslie going on the offensive with attacks against Newport makes her seem like a bully, prompting Ben to tell Leslie to ease back a bit. Meanwhile, Ben has assigned Chris, Ann, and Tom to be the Knope Campaign Spin Team. Tom is upset because Ann once again broke up with him (for reals this time), and it appears that Ann and Chris have been acting very close, further upsetting him. Later in the Debate Spin Room, Chris opens up to Ann and tells her that he wants to give their relationship another chance, which Tom witnesses, further upsetting him, and causing him to undermine their efforts at positive spin, by lashing out at reporters. Finally, Ben has assigned Andy, April, Ron, and Donna to hold a viewing party of the debate at TRFKAB for Leslie's donors. Everything seems to be going okay ... until they turn on the TV, ready to watch the debate ... and they get a screen telling them their cable service is off ... apparently SOMEONE forgot to pay the cable bill. With none of them knowing what to do, and wanting to keep the attention of the donors, Andy ... starts acting out movies he likes. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Ben come up with the right pivot strategy? Can Chris convince Ann to get back together with him? How will the donors react to Andy's one man show? Will Leslie win back support from the audience? Will Tom's grumpiness cause the Knope Spin Team to fail? Can Ron help them to get the cable working again? What is Jennifer Barkley's secret weapon? Loyal podcast viewers, Amy Poehler wrote this episode, and it shows ... one of the best of the entire season, and maybe the entire series. Don't miss it! Many thanks to our sponsor Entertainment 720 and their award-hopeful film: "Identity Crisis: This is Mouse Rat".

S04E19 - Live Ammo Jun 02, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that is, perhaps, the clearest homage to the West Wing in the entire series! Learning the Parks budget is going to be cut, Leslie convinces retiring Councilman Larry Pillner to reconsider. Ben is nervous about this action since they didn't discuss the possible ramifications. Ben's nervousness turns out to be justified when Pillner decides to, instead, cut the budget of an animal shelter instead, giving the animals only days to live. Bobby Newport's campaign manager, the cheerful, smart, talented, and deadly Jennifer Barkley goes on television to label Leslie an animal killer ... so Leslie adopts all of the animals to save them. In desperation, Leslie and Ben talk to Pillner and convince him to change the budget yet again, and instead release employees on retainer. This also backfires when Pillner goes further and cuts numerous employees, including Ann. Meanwhile, despite her best efforts, April has become frustrated and miserable trying to fill in for Leslie in the Parks Department. When Leslie ends up adopting animals from the shelter to save them, April decides to hold an adoption fair at a park for the displaced shelter animals. April takes charge, spearheading the event, and feels pretty good about it ... but, as the day goes on, doesn't seem to be meeting the quotas she was hoping for. Finally, Chris reveals that Ron is among the finalists for Assistant City Manager, but he first asks Ron to join him at a yoga studio for a meditation session. Ron initially balks at this, but Chris insists this is a critical step. Ron finally agrees to go, spending the day with Chris ... but while Chris cheerfully meditates, Ron is grumpy, refuses to smile, refuses to sit, and in fact, refuses to meditate at all. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... How can Leslie and Ben stop the Barkley express from eviscerating them on television? Does Chris offer Ron the position of Assistant City Manager? Has April found her true Passion Project? What is Ron's answer to Chris' teambuilding exercise? Does Councilman Pillner have a lesson to impart to Leslie before he retires? What will get cut ... the Parks budget, Ann Perkins, or innocent puppies and kitties? Will April find homes for all the animals ... if not, how will she handle the news? What potential political troubles does Chris learn about later? Faithful podcast viewers, tune in for some great stories, character development, and Bradley Whitford to boot! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, from LFPTV, "Pawnee - What If?".

S04E18 - Lucky May 26, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the first Episode where Andy is clean shaven, which is also the one and only episode written by Nick Offerman! Leslie is preparing for an interview with famous morning show host Buddy Wood, whose interviews tend to be the lucky charm that gets candidates elected. When Buddy cancels to cover a breaking story, Ben is upset and buries himself in campaign busy work, while Leslie, Tom, and Ann decide to blow off some steam at a bar, where they get drunk. Ben calls Leslie and tells her the interview is back on if she can quickly get to the Pawnee Municipal Airport. A still somewhat drunk Leslie makes her way there and meets Buddy. Unfortunately, things do not go well. Buddy is disgusted by Pawnee, is very condescending in the interview, and ends up pressing Leslie on the "affair" between her and Ben. Meanwhile, with the help of April and Ron, Andy prepares for, and then passes, his final exam in women's studies, earning a grade of "P". When Ron suggests they go out for a celebration dinner, Andy invites the women's studies Professor, Linda Lonegan, to join them. At the restaurant, April spots Chris eating alone, and invites him to join them. Chris accepts, and ends up having a lot in common with Linda, seeming to hit it off. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Does Leslie successfully hide her inebriation from Buddy Wood? Will Chris and Linda end up being an item? How many steaks does Ron end up ordering? Why does Donna call off her plans to stay with Jerry and stuff envelopes? Will Buddy end up airing the disastrous interview? Can Tom somehow help out with the infamous hot-tub-limo? What are the pros and cons of a super-baby? Can Ann and Tom break their record of how long they can go without breaking up? Loyal podcast viewers, tune in to see how Leslie deals with Buddy Wood - he is a complete jerk sandwich. Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, Scully's Bar and Grill.

Pawnee Spotlight: Ken Whittingham May 19, 2022

Mark and Allen last caught up with Ken as part of their coverage of Season Three's episode "Soulmates", which Ken directed. Check out our full interview with Ken this week, as he proves he is as good a conversationalist and guest as he is a director.
Join us as as Ken shares a few stories about his work on Parks and The Office and a wide array of experience over an impressive career spanning nearly every genre and format with something to appeal to everyone. If you haven't seen his work on Parks and Recreation or The Office, it's extremely likely you see something he has directed elsewhere!
This is an amazing interview from a wonderful and talented guest - we were very lucky to be able to talk to Ken. Tune in and see for yourselves!

S04E17 - Campaign Shakeup May 12, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we first see the great Pawnee TV show, "The Final Word, With Perd"! Leslie is catching up to Bobby Newport in the polls, resulting in the firing of his campaign manager. Ben has Leslie try to secure the endorsement of Ned Jones, President of Pawnee Seniors United. Ned is impressed with Leslie's plan to install ramps for senior citizens all over Pawnee, but saves his endorsement until after he meets with Bobby's NEW famous campaign manager, Jennifer Barkley, who typically works in national elections. Although Jennifer is courteous and dislikes Bobby, she later trashes Leslie on television. Leslie announces her "Ramp Up Pawnee" plan to members of Pawnee Seniors United, but is upstaged by Jennifer, who announces Bobby's "Rise Up Pawnee" plan using electronic lifts instead of ramps, which Ned loves. Meanwhile, Chris tells Ron that with Leslie spending less time with the Parks Department, he will need to hire a deputy director. When Ron balks at this, Chris asks him to prove they can function without Leslie by quickly finishing one major project. Ron decides to take up Ann Perkins' proposal of creating sanitary water fountains, as Pawnee's citizens have a habit of wrapping their entire mouths around the spout. Ann rallies the gang to try and brainstorm a few potential ideas, but one thing leads to another, things quickly go off the rail, and everyone gets into a huge water fight. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Ben rise to the occasion and out-think Jennifer Barkley? Can the gang deliver a solution to the water fountain dilemma? Who gets the endorsement of Ned Jones, Leslie or Bobby Newport? Does Chris end up hiring a deputy director? How did JJ's Diner get a new cappuccino maker? Will the Parks Department END up with a SHAKE up? Podcast viewers, we've seen Leslie Knope antagonists before, but NEVER one like this! Could Jennifer out-maneuver Leslie? The stakes are getting higher - tune in to find out! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, often imitated but never duplicated, "JJ's Diner".

S04E16 - Sweet Sixteen May 04, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are shown Donna's lake house, and told about her famous cousin who is an R&B singer! With Leslie's campaign eating up more and more of her time, Ron asks her to take a leave of absence. Leslie denies she is too busy, but is horrified to find out she forgot Jerry's birthday. Since 64-year-old Jerry's birthday is on February 29th, he has only had 16 actual birthdays, and so Leslie plans to throw Jerry a surprise "Sweet Sixteen" party, with Donna reluctantly agreeing to hold the party at her lake house. Despite being busy with campaign stuff, Leslie STILL manages to arrange the perfect party for Jerry ... except that she was so busy she forgot to INVITE Jerry. Leslie and Ron drive back to get Jerry, but along the way, Leslie learns her new campaign signs are printed wrong. Meanwhile, we see Ann and Tom experiencing some rough patches ... Ann refuses to wear a Kangol cap that Tom got her, making him realize they don't share the same fashion sense. At Donna's lake house, Tom finds out the R&B singer Ginuwine is Donna's cousin ... and ALSO finds out Ann doesn't know who Ginuwine is, causing Tom to seriously worry that they may have nothing in common. During all of this, Tom and Ann separately complain to an annoyed April - the person who set them up to begin with - with each one hinting they are thinking of breaking up with the other. Finally, April and Andy asked Chris to watch Champion the 3-legged wonder dog while they were out of town. While Chris took care of Champion, he took him to PetSmart, got him various toys, got him shots, got him groomed, gave him plenty of exercise, and also taught him numerous tricks. All this combines to make Andy feel a little insecure and inadequate. At Donna's lake house, while walking Champion, Andy lets Champion off his leash despite Chris' protests, and he runs away. Chris and Andy are forced to look for the dog, and Andy now feels more inadequate than ever, concerned that he's a bad dog owner. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... What exactly is wrong with Leslie's campaign signs? How does April deal with Ann and Tom's constant complaining? Can April encourage them to take the final step and break up? Can Andy imitate Chris' German commands to Champion? Can Ron ever convince Leslie to take a sabbatical? Will Andy and Chris ever find Champion, or will he be lost forever? Do Leslie and Ron find Jerry, and if so, where? What is the "oh-no-no" list? Is there some hidden meaning behind Chris' doting on Champion? Loyal podcast viewers, this episode has something for everyone - lake houses, canoes, people in bathtubs, German commands, lots of drinking, family secrets - be sure to tune in and experience all the craziness with us! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, "Cakey J's Cheesecake Facility".

S04E15 - Dave Returns with Robert B. Weide and Eric Pierpoint Apr 28, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we witness the long-awaited return of both Officer Dave Sanderson and Duke Silver! Leslie and Ben visit retiring Police Chief Trumple in hopes of winning his endorsement for City Council. While at the police station, they run into Officer Dave Sanderson, who's visiting from San Diego to attend Trumple's retirement party. Leslie invites Dave to dinner with her and Ben. At dinner, Dave privately tells Leslie [a] he is still in love with her, [b] he wants her back (even though Leslie is with Ben now), and [c] he may stay in Pawnee permanently to become the new Police Chief. Meanwhile, Andy has finished Leslie's campaign theme song "Catch Your Dream" and asks the gang to join him and his band, Mouse Rat, at Doubletime Studio to sing it. Hearing this, Ron realizes it is the same studio where he records as Duke Silver, and privately asks April to hide or destroy any Duke Silver evidence she finds there. At the studio, Tom acts like he and Ann are a couple (even though Ann regrets their brief date), and is determined to win her over. Andy, meanwhile, makes everyone sing "Catch Your Dream" over and over, but angrily berates them, insisting it's not good enough. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Leslie get retiring Police Chief Trumple's endorsement? Does Tom successfully woo Ann? What will Ben do when he finds out Dave is in love with Leslie? Will the gang find out about Ron's secret identity as Duke Silver? Will Leslie leave Ben for Dave? Can Andy record the perfect campaign theme song for Leslie? Tensions flare as things get real ... and real funny! And as if that weren't enough, we also feature clips from oun interviews...that's right, we said interviews with an "S" as in multple...with episode Director Robert B. Weide AND recurring guest star Eric Pierpoint a.k.a. Chief Trumple himself! Loyal viewers, don't miss out on this great episode! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, "Chez Chez La Rue".

Pawnee Spotlight: Michael Trim Apr 21, 2022

Mark and Allen last caught up with Michael as part of their coverage of Season Four's episode "Operation Ann". Check out our full conversation with Michael this week, as he spins many stories and answers many questions about his long and varied career, including his humble beginnings, how he got started in the business, his first jobs, gaining notariety, the hit movies and TV shows he's been involved with, his opinion of Parks & Rec, mockumentaries, single vs multi camera shows, and much, much more! This is a fantastic interview from a very gracious and talented guest - you won't want to miss this one!

S04E14 - Operation Ann with Michael Trim Apr 15, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are introduced to the Hompherman Snow Globe Museum! While hosting "Galentine's Day", Leslie realizes Ann is alone, so she asks the gang to help find someone for her. Chris, still depressed about being dumped by Jerry's daughter Milly, volunteers to DJ the Valentine's Dance they are organizing ... but unfortunately ends up playing depressing, somber music. Ann arrives at the dance, and Leslie unsuccessfully tries to set her up with numerous men. April, who openly dislikes Ann, brings her creepy friend Orin as a "date", leading Leslie to harshly criticize her. Tom steps up to help Ann out, making Ann feel better with his humorous efforts. While talking to Leslie, Chris tells her he is sad because he believes Milly was his soulmate, but Leslie cheers him up with a pep talk, but says he is also at fault for being single since he dumped Ann. Meanwhile, Leslie gave Ben a Valentine's Day scavenger hunt, filled with intricate riddles hidden all over Pawnee in order to discover where she wants to meet him that night. Ben has trouble right off the bat, but thankfully, Andy and Ron decide to help Ben out. Despite Ron's claims to the contrary, he appears to be rather excited with the prospect of, and suprisingly good at solving, riddles. While in general they make good progress, it comes to their attention that there are 25 clues in total. Fearing they will never get done in time, they agree to split up and find the riddles out of order, in hopes of more quickly finding the last one. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Chris snap out of his funk? How does Ron solve the mystery of the cryptex? Is Ann compatible with any of the men at the dance? How does Leslie use Pizza Hut to her advantage? Where is the final meeting place, and can Ben get there in time? Loyal podcast viewers, season 4 has been on a roll, and we think this episode will be no exception - come see if we're right! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, "JJ's Diner".

Special Edition: Groad Show Starring Jim O'Heir with Stephen Kogon Apr 14, 2022

Join us for a our first "Where Are They Now" special edition episode. Up this week: Jim O'Heir! Check out our exclusive interview with Stephen Kogon the creator of "The Groad Show". This quirky comedy series stars Jim O'Heir (Jerry to Parks and Recreation fans) as Groad, a bottom-of-the-rung minion from Hell who's sent to Earth to ruin someone's wonderful life. With a premise like that, what more needs to be said? We encourage all of our followers to go out to YouTube, find "Groad Show", and click that Subscribe button - you'll be glad you did.

For more on the Groad Show and to check out the latest episodes head over to their YouTube channel (https://bit.ly/GroadShow) or check out their other Social media.

S04E13 - Bowling for Votes Apr 07, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces us to Ricky's Rock and Roll Bowling Alley! Leslie witnesses a focus group participant named Derek say he won't vote for her because "she doesn't look like someone he could go bowling with". Despite Ben urging her to not let it get to her, Leslie obsesses over winning Derek's vote in particular, even going so far as to have her campaign hold a bowling night for the public. At the event, Leslie good naturedly challenges Derek to a game of bowling, letting him win while providing free food and beer. However, at the end of the game, when asked if he will vote for her now, Derek still says no. Also at the bowling alley, Tom, Ron, and Ann bowl together on a lane, with Tom embarrassing Ann, and ESPECIALLY Ron, with his childlike, two-handed, underhand bowling technique. However, as the game progresses, Tom proves that his technique is quite effective, much to Ron's chagrin. Later, Tom injures his finger when getting his ball, unable to finish the last frame, and leaving the winner in question. Meanwhile, Jerry gets April, Andy, Chris, and Donna to join him in an all-night phone bank at TRFKAB (i.e. April and Andy's house) to raise funds for Leslie's campaign, offering a prize of 2 movie tickets for whoever raises the most money. Chris wants to win so he can go out on a date with his girlfriend, Jerry's daughter Milly. April wants to win because it would take away Chris' happiness. Chris, well in the lead, announces during a break that he's going to ask Milly to move in with him. However, Jerry privately reveals to everyone else that Milly is planning to break up with Chris. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... How does Leslie handle Derek's continued rejection? How many phone voices does April have? Was Ron involved with the accident that hurt Tom's fingie? Can Ben help Leslie and Derek get along, or will he make it worse? Who ends up winning the movie tickets? Is Tom in fact a female bird? Loyal podcast viewers, this episode is filled to the rim with comedy gold and meme-worthy moments - come enjoy it with us! Many thanks to our incredible sponsor, Ricky's Rock and Roll Restaurant.

S04E12 - Campaign Ad Mar 31, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces us to the heir to the Sweetums candy fortune, Bobby Newport! Bobby Newport, heir to the Sweetums candy fortune, enters the City Council race (despite a complete lack of political interest or experience) and is immediately WAY ahead of Leslie in the polls. Since Bobby refuses to debate Leslie, Ben pushes for a negative campaign attack ad during the highly rated Pawnee vs Eagleton high school basketball game. Leslie always dreamed of running a clean campaign and is very uneasy with this approach, but Ben thinks pointing out Bobby's shortcomings is the only way she can come back in the polls. They decide to have Leslie make a positive ad, Ben make a negative ad, and let the gang decide which one they like best - with the winner airing on TV. Meanwhile, Chris asks for Ron's help in delivering bad budget news, which the anti-government Ron is VERY happy to do. However, afterwards Ron becomes uncomfortable when Chris asks him out to lunch. Over time, Chris continues to offer seeming overtures of friendship, and Ron continues to avoid Chris' overtures of friendship. On a hunch, Donna suggests to Ron that *maybe* Chris misses Ben, who he was close friends with, and, was always the one to deliver bad news. Finally, when Andy gives himself a possible concussion, he and April go to Ann for medical advice, who reminds them they both have health insurance (Andy maybe for the first time), so stop being idiots and go see some freaking doctors. They initially meet with rude Dr. Harris regarding the concussion, but after Andy tells him all the ailments and injuries he acquired over the years, Dr. Harris gives them several referrals, and April and Andy prepare to spend the rest of the week going to multiple specialists for both of them. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... What does Leslie think of Bobby Newport? Is Ron's automatic office door fast enough to stop Chris? Exactly how does Andy give himself a concussion? Who will win the ad-off, Leslie or Ben? Does Chris actually drug Ron? How do April and Andy deal with their insurance deductible? Loyal viewers, this episode is a great one! Be sure to tune in! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, Pawnee Super Suites.

Special Edition: Top 5 Spots Mar 24, 2022

Mark and Allen are (mostly) taking the week off to take care of our families and some related housekeeping after some recent losses for both (Allen's Mom and Marks Mother-in-Law). But, the guys did not want to leave you hanging and decided to put together a special mini-Episode featuring their favorite Top 5 "Commercials" to date! If you know the show, then you know that we frequently have Ron Swanson on to help us with our sponsor ads (totally real) and occasional bust out something fun and different as well. With over 60 spots to date, we think they picked the five best so far! So, strap in, kick-back, and enjoy the special episode! Enjoy!

S04E11 - The Comeback Kid Mar 16, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces us to Champion the three-legged dog! Leslie and the gang are planning a comeback for her campaign, and despite Ben's experience, Leslie fears he may remind voters of the scandal, so Ann is asked to be campaign manager. The gang organizes a rally at the Pawnee Sports Building. However, as they drive a large truck with their supplies to the rally, an officer pulls them over and makes them abandon the vehicle (nobody has a commercial license). They cram what they can into Leslie's car, but have to leave most of the supplies behind, and must make do with what they have. Meanwhile, Ann manages to land high school basketball legend "Pistol" Pete Disellio, who is willing to endorse Leslie, but is tired of talking about his one famous game, and doesn't want the campaign to associate him with basketball or his nickname. As Ann tries to talk him into dunking the ball during the rally, Pete opens up more and more about his life problems, and Ann gets more and more uncomfortable. Finally, Chris visits an unshaven Ben at home, where he's clearly trying to adjust to unemployment. Chris sees Ben involved in several dubious "hobbies", but Chris believes Ben is depressed, using the hobbies as a distraction. Ben eventually throws down the gauntlet, intending to prove to Chris how NOT depressed he is by showing him the claymation video he created over the last three weeks. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Is Champion the three-legged dog a better kisser than Andy? What does Chris think of Ben's new calzone-related dining idea? Who ends up crying harder, Pistol Pete, or Ann? Will Ben's "clay-maish" serve to bolster or weaken his "I'm fine" argument? What unfortunate choice does Leslie make for her rally theme song? Loyal viewers, this episode is chock-a-block full of meme-worthy moments - tune in so you don't miss any of them! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, Derwin Ham Loaves.

Pawnee Spotlight: Featuring John Balma Mar 09, 2022

Mark and Allen last caught up with John as part of their coverage of Season Four's episode "Citizen Knope". Check out our full conversation with John this week covering his span as Barney Varmn over six seasons of Parks and Recreation and even hear a little about his other works including Star Trek and The West Wing! Listen this week to hear the entire interview with John as we speak to him from his home in San Francisco and get a peek into the man behind the laugh! Once again, we apologize that someone...we won't say who, but it was totally Constantine, spilled Dr. Pepper on the mixer and screwed up Allen's audio. But, the interview is so good, we promise you won't regret checking this one out!

S04E10 - Citizen Knope with John Balma Mar 02, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces us to Barney Varmn's accounting firm! Trying to keep busy during her two-week suspension, Leslie attempts to sneak work out of the office to do at home ... unsuccessfully. She then attempts to focus on her City Council campaign, but her advisors tell her to lay low until post-scandal poll numbers come back. Finally, Leslie acts on Ben's suggestion and forms a Citizens Action Committee, the Parks Committee of Pawnee (PCP). Meanwhile, after resigning in disgrace, Ben decides to look for a new job. He interviews with several places, including Barney Varmn's accounting firm, and cologne maker Dennis Feinstein. Despite his impressive resume, Ben seems ultimately unsure what he wants to do next. Finally, when the gang once again receives thoughtful holiday gifts from Leslie, Ron suggests they work together to give Leslie a great gift, and they all collaborate to make her a miniature model of the Parks and Recs office, made out of candy. They are certain Leslie will love their confectionary model ... However, the gang has one last gift for Leslie waiting in the wings. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... What will Leslie's post-scandal poll numbers look like? Will Barney's accounting firm react well to Ben's sense of humor? What precisely is "salger"? Did April really kill the Black Eyed Peas? What role will Jean-Ralphio play in Ben's final decision? Where did Donna get her shiny silver M&M's? Podcast viewers, this is a fantastic episode, be sure not to miss it! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, the often imitated but never duplicated JJ's Diner.

S04E09 - The Trial of Leslie Knope Feb 23, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Leslie and Ben officially reveal their relationship! When we last left our heroes (i.e. last episode), Leslie and Ben decided to tell Chris about their relationship. When they do so, Chris reluctantly, but stoicly, launches a full investigation and prepares an ethics trial for the two of them, with Leslie's trial first. During her opening statement at the Ethics Trial, Leslie freely admits to her relationship with Ben, but insists they never did anything else wrong or unethical. Chris, however, thinks there may be more going on, and has several witnesses lined up to seek the truth. As the trial proceeds, Leslie manages to deflect most arguments brought to trial. However, rumor has it that Chris may have a killer witness waiting in the wings ... (DRAMATIC STING) As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... How many herbal supplements does Chris need to take to fight off depression? What happened to the woman in the mural who exposed her elbow? How exactly does Leslie spell out the word "YAYYYYYYYYYYYYY"? Who exactly is the killer witness? What final secret does Jerry reveal during the trial? Loyal podcast viewers, this is a big one, and the stakes have never been higher. Tune in to find out what happens! Last week's PSA went so well, Chris talked Ron into (grudgingly) doing another one this week. Be sure to tell us what you think!

Special Look Back: Galentine's Day Feb 16, 2022

In this classic episode of the show AND the podcast, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that not only introduces Galentine's Day, but also Dennis Feinstein's unforgettable perfume line! When Leslie's boyfriend Justin hears a story from Marlene (Leslie's mom) about Frank "the one that got away", Leslie and Justin track him down to reunite them at the Valentine's Day dance at the Senior Center. Meanwhile, Andy and his band are nervous about playing "old fogey" songs for the dance. As it turns out, the senior center ends up being the stage for several relationships to progress (or perhaps regress), including Mark and Ann, Tom and Wendy, our favorite throuple April/Derek/Ben, Leslie and Justin, and of course... Marlene and Frank! Once again, nothing is safe from us, as we fearlessly pursue the answers to questions such as... What is the old lady version of flashing? Is it okay for someone to blackmail you into a date? What is Leslie's definition of a nooner? How should a daughter refer to her new step-dad? (UPDATE: The scientists at LFP Worldwide Headquarters have done some research, and the answer is "Poo-Paw".) Podcast viewers, tune your dials accordingly for this iconic episode, it's going to be great! Constantine asks you also stick with us through the rest of the series. Please don't be a tourist. Many thanks to our irreplaceable sponsor, J.J.'s Diner.

S04E08 - Smallest Park Feb 09, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are finally made aware of Jerry's real name! As Leslie and Ben near completion on their project to build the Smallest Park in Indiana, Ben tells Leslie he plans to have Chris take over Parks and Rec business while he focuses elsewhere, because being around her is too much for him to deal with. In response, and in desperation, Leslie does anything she can to delay the opening of the park, so she and Ben will continue to work together, including such tactics as whipping the Pawnee townspeople into a frenzy so they protest the park. Meanwhile, Chris asks Tom and Jerry to rethink the department's visual brand ... which basically means choose a new font. The assignment is right in Jerry's comfort zone. Tom on the other hand wants to do much more, and ends up going overboard, his suggestions including the remodel of existing buildings, and a reality show. While Tom takes a stand as a dreamer, Jerry (decidedly a non-dreamer) objects and warns Tom this outlandish thinking is what doomed his company. Finally, in an attempt to improve himself, Andy plans to go back to college, starting with one class, but he's having a hard time deciding what to take. April and Ron kind of take up "devil and angel" positions on Andy's shoulders, with April suggesting something easy to get an A, while Ron suggests he take a new subject to broaden his horizons. After trying to adopt each of their approaches, Andy decides to take matters into his own hands, and choose his class at random. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Ann ever get a word in edgewise when trying to help Leslie? Is this truly the end of Leslie and Ben? Will Tom get Jerry to start dreaming? Will Jerry get Tom to calm the hell down? What class did Andy choose? How does Andy plan to pay for his class? Podcast viewers, this is a great episode for character development! Tune in and see for yourself! Instead of a commercial, Ron is doing a PSA for park rental needs.

S04E07 - The Treaty Feb 02, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that gives us our first glimpse at the Pawnee City Council Chambers! Leslie is asked to lead a session of Pawnee Central High School's Model UN club, tasked to solve a global food crisis. Leslie takes Denmark, and she invites Ben (Peru), Andy (Finland), and April (South Africa and ... the Moon, LOL) to join her. Leslie is glad she and Ben can get along as friends, but when Leslie leaves a treaty meeting for a photo op for her city council campaign, Ben becomes annoyed and acts accordingly, agreeing to a treaty that excludes Denmark. When Leslie comes back, she is angry, they have words, and she ends up declaring war on Ben ... er, I mean, Peru. Meanwhile, Ron is interviewing Tom's replacement, although he really wants Tom back. Tom claims to have moved on to new ventures, but Ron knows he's working retail at Macy's. Tom joins Ron as he interviews many poor candidates, hoping to agitate Tom into returning, with no success. Finally, Chris' girlfriend (Milly Gergich, Jerry's daughter) stopped returning Chris' calls. Concerned the relationship was in trouble, he forms an impromptu think tank with an enthusiastic Donna and a very unenthusiastic Jerry, looking for advice. He asks Ann to join the mix, and although at first Ann finds it inappropriate, she agrees and ends up getting real with Chris. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Who will join Denmark's Coalition of the Willing? Why does Ron want Tom back so badly? Will the Traeger Think Tank be successful? What brilliant military strategy does Andy execute? Why does Tom not WANT to come back so badly? Just how real does Ann get with Chris? Will the Moon play a part in the escalating war? Is Tom's career at Macy's secure, or can they come to a compromise? Does Jerry lose his cool and clothesline Chris? Loyal podcast viewers, join us for a nerdy good time! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, Flag 'R' Us - a Division of Swanson Industries.

S04E06 - End of the World Jan 26, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that witnesses the official end of Entertainment 720! Local Pawnee group/doomsday cult "the Reasonabilists" predicts the end of the world is coming ... again. Leslie lets them hold an all-night vigil in the park, and Chris wants Leslie and Ben to help him monitor the vigil, making them uncomfortable due to the recent break-up. While interviewing them, reporter Shauna Malwae-Tweep shows interest in Ben. Leslie panics and attempts to dissuade Shauna from pursuing Ben. Meanwhile, Tom and Jean-Ralphio's company, Entertainment 720, is nearing its end. The two decide to spend all their remaining money on an "End of the World" party since the lease is not up until the following day. They go all-out, Tom using his skills to produce the most perfect party ever, including VIP rooms, Executive VIP rooms, Snake Juice ice fountain, craps table, roulette table, pirate ship bouncy castle, a Bengal Tiger, and more!!! Finally, bored with their usual routine, and maybe as a slight precaution to the world supposedly ending, April and Andy decide to shake things up, and complete as many things on Andy's bucket list as possible. (Yeah - Andy has a bucket list.) As the day progresses, we experience the lottery, grilled cheese sandwiches, armfuls of money, and more, until, finally, there is one... big... item... left. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will the world end at dawn as predicted? What task does Tom give to Indiana Pacers Center Roy Hibbert? Is there such a thing as stupidity momentum? Does Shauna Malwae-Tweep continue to flirt with Ben? Who finally shows up at the party that makes Tom's night? How does Bert Macklin and Janet Snakehole figure into all this? What in the world is Ron doing at the vigil? Is E720's "End of the World" party considered a success? What is the final item on Andy's bucket list? Podcast viewers, join us for road trips, music, tigers, lizards, and more! We're saving a seat for you. Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, Mr. Mustache Musical Emporium - a division of Swanson Industries.

S04E05 - Meet N Greet Jan 19, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we meet the one and only Martin Kernston! Leslie hires Entertainment 720 (and by extension Tom) to organize a meet and greet for her and Pawnee business owners, including Pawnee Chamber of Commerce president Martin Kernston of Kernston's Rubber Nipples, hoping to court their votes for City Council. Leslie is annoyed to discover the meet and greet is one big Entertainment 720 advertisement, with hardly any mention of her. Things continue downhill when Tom pulls Kernston away from Leslie to discuss Entertainment 720, and even more when Tom interrupts Leslie's speech with a huge promotional presentation for Entertainment 720. Meanwhile, Andy and April are throwing a Halloween party at their house, but did not think to inform Ben. As the party progresses, we see several things happening: [a] Ben decides to be passive-aggressive instead of confronting them. After Ben refuses to tell Andy what's urking him, Andy wrestles with him and puts him in a headlock, refusing to let go until Ben talks. [b] Ron finds several things broken within the house, and decides to occupy himself making much needed repairs, eventually asking a hesitant Ann to assist (she has small hands). [c] Chris is dating Jerry's daughter Milly, but decides to not bring her to the party because he knew Jerry would be there. However, Jerry insists he doesn't mind, and to go ahead and ask her to come. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie ever forgive Tom? Can Andy force Ben to confront why he's angry? Will Kernston ever meet with Leslie? Does Ron end up fixing everything in the house? Can everyone fit in the Entertainment 720 Limo Hot Tub? Will Jerry regret telling Chris to invite Milly? Podcast viewers, this one has the good, the bad, and the ugly ... join us as we break it down for you! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, and the newest class at the William Percy Rec Center, entitled "Swanson Handyman In Training".

S04E04 - Pawnee Rangers Jan 12, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we are introduced to Tom and Donna's annual "Treat Yo Self" trip! Ron leads a Boy-Scout-esque club called the Pawnee Rangers, with Andy as assistant. Five years ago, a girl was turned away because the club is for boys only, so Leslie created the girls-only Pawnee Goddesses, with Ann and April as assistants. Leslie is determined to avenge the past rejection by proving her club is better, and arranges a Goddesses camping trip at the same time and place as the Rangers. As the weekend progresses, the Rangers become increasingly jealous of the Goddesses, who are having a lot more fun inside a decorated cabin, with crafts/pillow fights/candy/prizes, while the Rangers remain outside, are told to make a shelter with virtually no materials or training, and have beans-in-a-can. At one point, one of the Rangers actually goes so far as to try and defect over to the Goddesses. Meanwhile, when the Rangers and Goddesses take off, Donna and Tom decide to also take off on their annual "Treat Yo Self" trip, where they spend a day pampering themselves and spending extravagantly on things they don't need. Although typically a Tom and Donna thing, Donna notices Ben seems stressed out and really down, and convinces Tom (just this once) to let Ben join them, hoping it will lift his spirits. As the day progresses, it becomes clear that Ben is wound tight, and Tom and Donna's ideas of how to relax may not be exactly what Ben needs. Finally, with everyone else gone, Jerry is the only one left in the office. When Chris sees this, he gives Jerry the day off. An appreciative Jerry invites Chris to have lunch with him and his daughter Millicent, or "Milly". Chris politely declines, but when Milly comes to the office, Chris sees how attractive she is, "retroactively accepts" Jerry's offer, and goes out to lunch with both of them. During lunch, it certainly seems as though Chris and Milly are hitting it off. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie and the Goddesses allow the boy to join their club? Can Donna convince Ben to warm up to acupuncture? How many Facebook Interest Groups do Chris and Milly share? Can Ron demonstrate all the practical uses for a tarpaulin? Can Tom convince Ben to buy more than a pair of plain white socks? Are there potential sparks in the air for Chris and Milly? Does Leslie have a public forum with Ron and the Rangers? What extravagant purchase does Ben finally land on? How does Chris interact with Jerry, realizing he is Milly's father? Loyal podcast viewers, please join us in watching this episode that encapsulates the good, the bad, and the ridiculous. You won't be sorry! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, SWANSONS - Troup #001.

S04E03 - Born and Raised Jan 05, 2022

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we finally learn Leslie's full name! Leslie wrote the book "Pawnee: The Greatest Town in America" and is promoting it on Pawnee Today, hoping Joan Callamezzo will put her book club sticker on it, which would increase sales AND help Leslie's campaign. Before the show, an anonymous source claims an inaccuracy in the book, which Leslie enlists the gang to find, trying to avoid Joan revealing it on air. When Leslie goes on Pawnee Today, Joan reveals the inaccuracy: Leslie "Born & Raised" Knope was NOT BORN IN PAWNEE, and because she lied, Joan refuses to put her book club sticker on it. Meanwhile, Leslie has hired Entertainment 720 (and by extension Tom) to get that book sticker. Tom is confident he can talk Joan into it because he always playfully flirts with her. But things get more complicated when Joan makes it known that she is divorcing her husband, and warns Tom not to make any promises he can't keep. Finally, when Leslie asks the gang to help her fact check the details, Ann is teamed up with Ron and April. Although Ron and April are traditionally stoic and silent, ESPECIALLY to her, Ann is determined to win them over with kindness and get them to actually have a conversation with her. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Where was Leslie actually born? Will Tom convince Joan to give Leslie's book the sticker? Can Ron finally whittle alone in silence, the way God intended? Who is the anonymous source that provided the tip? How many drinks does it take for Joan to refer to Tom as "an adorable hunk of caramel"? Does Ann have a secret weapon up her sleeve? Podcast viewers, this Joan-tastic episode is one you won't want to miss! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, "Pawnee Public Radio's Newest Show: 3Qs and 2As".

Happy New Year 2022 from Live from Pawnee! Jan 01, 2022

Join us for a message from the man, the myth, the legend...Ron Freakin' Swanson himself! Recorded live in LFP Worldwide HQ studios, this is a Live from Pawnee exclusive! We hope you take a minute to listen , lookback briefly and look forward, with hope, to a better 2022!

From Ron and all of us at Live from Pawnee and the LFP Worldwide Headquarters, we wish all of you, our viewers, a very Happy and Safe New Year!

S04E02 - Ron and Tammys Dec 29, 2021

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we finally meet Ron's mother! When Leslie discovers Ron is busy preparing for a tax audit served to him by Tammy 1, she rounds up April and Andy to help sort through Ron's assortment of receipt odds-and-ends. Horrified at Ron's recordkeeping, Tammy 1 demands access to every part of his life for the audit. Over the next week, Tammy 1 moves back in with Ron and assumes complete control over him. Ron shaves off his moustache, becomes kind, refuses to do anything without Tammy 1's approval ... basically becoming a neutered wimp. Meanwhile, Tom asks Ben to look over the Entertainment 720 finances, at which point Ben discovers Tom and Jean-Ralphio are wasting huge amounts of money on a state-of-the-art office, high salaries with full benefits, paying NBA players to play basketball all day ... all despite having no income. Ben becomes alarmed, and is determined to make sure they understand the situation they're in. Finally, Ann wants to update the Health Department's Public Service Announcement for diabetes. When Ann asks Chris if he would like to help her make a new PSA, he excitedly agrees, and drops everything to help. Unfortunately, Chris is overly-enthusiastic, his OCD turning something Ann hopes will take 1-2 hours into something that lasts over a week ... Ann is so bored and miserable, she wonders why she even dated him in the first place. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Can Tom and Jean-Ralphio turn things around by printing their own money? Does Chris have the same wardrobe as the Spice Girls? What is Swanson Family Mash Liquor? Why DID Ann ever date Chris in the first place? What exactly is "the party switch"? What do you do if Godzilla attacks the city? Loyal podcast viewers, this episode is truly one of a kind. Come enjoy it in all its Tammy-colored glory! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, 'Tam-Away'.

S04E01 - I'm Leslie Knope Dec 22, 2021

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode where we finally learn Ron's full name! Picking up where the Season 3 finale left off, a couple of things happen later that night: Leslie tells Ann about the political scouts and her agreeing to run for office, although she is conflicted due to her relationship with Ben, which could cause a scandal. In addition, upon learning that Tammy One has arrived in town, Ron grabs an emergency survival bag and flees to live in the wilderness. THREE WEEKS LATER ... Ron is still MIA, Leslie still hasn't broken up with Ben, and a penis is emailed to all female employees (and Jerry). Chris and Ben investigate, while Leslie does media damage control via televised interview with Perd Hapley. The interview goes so well, the political scouts decide to use the momentum and move Leslie's announcement up by three months. This causes Leslie to go into a panic about Ben. Meanwhile, Ann informs Chris the genitals in the email show symptoms of mumps. Proud of Ann's diagnosing abilities, Chris announces Ann's discovery to everyone ... causing the male employees to fill Ann's inbox with pictures of their junk, afraid they caught the mumps as well. Finally, despite resigning from his position in the Parks Department, Tom visits the gang multiple times with lots of promotional material and swag from his new job at Entertainment 720. Tom ends up offering Andy a job, which causes Andy to have some rare moments of introspection, wondering if working for Tom would be a good move, and in a more general sense, if there's something more for him out there beyond shoe shining. As always, we tackle the tough questions, such as ... Will Ron ever return from his remote cabin in the woods? Do Chris and Ben find out who sent the initial penis email? Does Andy accept Tom's job offer? Can Leslie manage to break up with Ben? Will there be a mumps outbreak at City Hall? Can Tom's Entertainment 720 magnet truly wipe out the debt on Andy's credit card? Whatever happened to Tammy 1? Folks, this is a great start to a great season ... So sit back, relax, and enjoy it with us! Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, Pawnee Computer Pros (PCP).

Revisited: Season 3 Recap Dec 16, 2021

In this Special Revisited episode, not only do Mark and Allen recap the best of episodes Season 3; but, they share some stats...er, fun facts, and analysis on Season 3 and and relive some of the Seasons best moments! Don't miss out on this chance to catch up and look back before we jump into Season 4!

Pawnee Spotlight: Featuring Andy Milder Dec 14, 2021

Mark and Allen last caught up with Andy as part of their coverage of Season Three's classic episode "The Fight" but got to talk about a whole lot more that just Parks and Recreation. Check out Andy's impressive resume of TV, Movies and Voice-work including Apollo 13, Fame-LA, Armageddon, Frost/Nixon, Legion of Super Heroes, Austin and Ally, a little show called Weeds...and, of course, our two favorite hard-hitting political shows - West Wing....and Parks and Recreation! Listen this week to hear the entire interview with Andy and get some great industry insights from the man himself! You won't regret checking out this great full interview!

S03E16 - Lil Sebastian - Part 2 Dec 09, 2021

Join us for the second-half of this GIANT, EPIC 2-Part Episode covering the Parks and Recreation Season 3 Finale! This week Mark and Allen have their lighters...or Candles...out as Mouse Rat is welcomed to the Memorial stage - about to reveal their big number that promises to be 5000x better than 'Candle in the Wind'. At the same time, the gravity of a full-time Entertainment 720 position tugs at Tom's dream-strings. Meanwhile, Ron is about to light the Ceremonial Torch and Ben and Leslie continue to feel the ripple effects of their deceit and efforts to hide their relationship. And to make the evening's events even more interesting, Tammy 2 shows up to taunt (or tent) Ron in the wake of a major blow-up! Loyal podcast viewers, you won't want to miss our finale...of the finale!

Pawnee Spotlight: Featuring Norm Hiscock Dec 06, 2021

Mark and Allen caught up with Norm this summer during a short hiatus and talked Parks and Rec, Brooklyn 99, King of the Hill, Kids in the Hall, Space Force and many others! If you heard some of the clips from Norm on our coverage of S03E02 Flu Season, come back for this very special Pawnee Spotlight to hear our entire interview and get the inside scoop on some of our favorite shows! We promise it will be worth it!

S03E16 - Lil Sebastian - Part 1 Dec 01, 2021

This week Mark and Allen rock in the corner and weep gently along with the gang as they (and we) learn ***SPOILER ALERT*** of Li'l Sebastian's passing. In response, Leslie, along with help from Tom and Jean-Ralphio, in their first production as the creators of Entertainment 720, produce and put on a Li'l Sebastian Memorial Concert to celebrate the life of the most famous mini-horse in the Midwest! Meanwhile Chris believes he is LITERALLY about to die...from Tendonitis and seeks council from everyone's favorite part-time Nurse/part-time City employee - Ann Perkins! Andy is tapped by Leslie to create a tribute song for the Memorial. And, oh yeah, and Ben and Leslie pretty much make out anywhere and everywhere as the move on from the #dorkflirting stage of their relationship to the #dorksgonnagetfired (if Chris finds out) stage which is the stage that everyone knows comes next! Loyal podcast viewers, this is a HUGE 2-part episode you won't want to miss!

S03E15 - The Bubble Nov 24, 2021

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces our favorite court stenographer, Ethel Beavers! Leslie and Ben are dating, but keeping it a secret because of Chris' no-dating policy. They are enjoying what Leslie calls "the bubble", the beginning of a relationship when everything's simple and fun. The bubble is threatened, however, when Ben has a meeting with Marlene Griggs-Knope, Leslie's mother, a notoriously tough politician in the Pawnee school system, who wants Ben to approve school bus purchases despite a tight budget. Right before Ben's meeting, Leslie tells him Marlene is her mother, making him nervous, ineffectual, and causing him to capitulate to Marlene's demands. Leslie finds out her mom (who doesn't know they are dating) thinks Ben is a pushover, so Leslie trains Ben for his next meeting with her mother to prove he is confident, capable, and self-assured. Meanwhile, Chris has several new ideas he is putting into action, including promoting Jerry to PR director, making April everyone's assistant, having Tom digitize the city archives on the dreaded FOURTH FLOOR, giving Andy a temporary paid position as Tom's assistant, and putting Ron at a circular desk in the middle of the bullpen to make him more accessible. Tom is absolutely miserable with his assignment, and starts to question everything. Ron believes everything will eventually go back to normal, as it has with past city managers and their ideas, but Donna is concerned that Chris "the microchip" Traeger will not quit. Folks, we ask the hard questions so you don't have to, such as ... Can Donna learn to use her wacky space-age keyboard? Will Ben win the second round with Marlene? How does the new assignment affect Tom's future job interests? Will Marlene find out Ben is dating her daughter? Why does Ben summon a quote from Calvin and Hobbes? Is the FOURTH FLOOR as terrifying as we remember it? Loyal podcast viewers, we're getting close to the end of the season, and things are heating up - you won't want to miss this episode! In lieu of a sponsor, we have a PSA regarding Pawnee City Hall's 4th Floor. Yeah. You heard right. THAT floor.

S03E14 - Road Trip Nov 17, 2021

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that features Tom's game show "Know Ya Boo"! The #dorkflirting tension between Leslie and Ben is still high, but Leslie is trying to avoid temptation by not being alone with Ben. Unfortunately, Chris asks Leslie and Ben to drive to Indianapolis together to pitch Pawnee as the next host for the Indiana Little League Baseball tournament. Leslie and Ann devise boring music and conversation topics for the trip to steer away from any romance. After an awkward drive to Indianapolis, Leslie and Ben speak before the Little League Commission, which seems reluctant to choose Pawnee for the tournament. Ben delivers a heartfelt speech about the town, but also appears to be secretly speaking about his feelings for Leslie. Meanwhile, Tom asks Andy, April, Jerry and Donna to help him tweak his new game show called "Know Ya Boo" that he is hoping to pitch to networks. It becomes clear Jerry and Donna know more about each other than recently married April and Andy. When April reveals her favorite band is "Neutral Milk Hotel", and not Mouse Rat, Andy leaves the game and storms off. Later, April and Andy have a big fight, which causes Andy to sell his guitar and potentially quit music altogether. Finally, a young 9-year-old girl named Lauren asks to interview Ron for her school's field trip assignment on "Why Government Matters". Ron initially resists, but soon waxes lyrical as he espouses his libertarian beliefs to her. Lauren eagerly accepts his anti-government views, but the next day, Lauren's furious mother confronts Ron about the content he shared with Lauren. As always, we don't shy away from the tough questions, such as ... Will Leslie and Ben convince the Commission to choose Pawnee? Who is Tom's co-host "Bobby the Boo"? Is Lauren smarter than most of the people at City Hall? What happened last time Pawnee hosted the tournament in 1989? Will April turn to anyone for advice? Who now has Ron's claymore land mine? Loyal podcast viewers, this is a great episode you won't want to miss! In lieu of a sponsor, we have decided to play a trivia game - tune in to see how we score!

S03E13 - The Fight with Andy Milder Nov 11, 2021

This week Mark and Allen break down the Episode that has alter egos Bert Macklin and Janet Snakehole in the same place at the same time! Tom is unveiling his new alcoholic beverage, Snake Juice, at the Snakehole Lounge that night, and gets the gang to be there to get others to drink it via guerrilla marketing. Snake Juice proves to be delicious and popular with the gang, with everyone getting very drunk as the night goes on. Even Chris shows up - but only to warn Tom that using government employees to promote his own personal ventures is a breach of ethics, and he must sell his shares of the Snakehole Lounge if he wants to keep his job. Meanwhile, having fired the Health Department's PR director, Chris engages with Leslie to help find a replacement. Leslie suggests Ann, and excitedly finds Ann to tell her the news, giving her a ton of homework to help her prepare. Ann is a little unsure, but agrees to an interview scheduled for tomorrow. That night at the Snakehole Lounge, Leslie is surprised and annoyed to find Ann partying instead of prepping for the interview. An increasingly drunk Leslie and Ann start fighting, which escalates throughout the night. We ask the hard hitting questions you would expect from us, such as ... Does Tom sell his shares of the Snakehole Lounge? Is this the end of Leslie and Ann's friendship? Can Tom get Ron to endorse his new beverage? Who will be the new PR Director? Why are Bert Macklin and Janet Snakehole at this event? How many boyfriends does Ann go through in this episode? Folks, get ready for a classic amongst classics... including a few scenes that have become INFAMOUS memes (*cough* Ron dancing *cough*). Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, the Offerman Woodshop.

S03E12 - Eagleton Nov 03, 2021

We've heard of Eagleton before, but this week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that REALLY introduces us to "that" Eagleton which we have grown to know and hate! Eagleton built a fence in a shared park to keep Pawneeans out, which Leslie suspects is the work of former best friend and Pawnee Parks & Rec co-worker, Lindsay Carlisle Shay (now Eagleton's Parks & Rec director). Leslie meets with Lindsay, who refuses to remove the fence and insults Pawnee in the process. Leslie, Tom and Ben attend a fancy, catered Eagleton town meeting to plead their case to its citizens, which does not go well, leaving Leslie frustrated and seeking revenge. Meanwhile, Leslie discovers Ron's upcoming birthday, which he has kept secret for years, and promises a horrified Ron she will throw a surprise party. Ron becomes increasingly paranoid, especially after overhearing April and Andy discuss outrageous party plans. Ron eventually becomes so paranoid he resorts to sleeping in his office to avoid any potential surprises, at home or otherwise. As always, we don't shy away from the difficult questions, such as ... Why is Leslie letting Lindsay get to her? How hard can you hit someone with a garbage bag? What mistake by Ron allowed Leslie to discover his birthday? Can we build a second fence around their fence? How does one get assigned to "the kidnap squad"? Do they make bouncy castles for adults? Loyal podcast viewers, grab your favorite podcast snack and tune in to enjoy this amazing episode with us! NOTE: Don't go to Baskin Robbins. They are VERY loose-lipped with their customer information. Just sayin. Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, the Pawnee Police Department.

Happy Halloween from Ron Swanson and Live from Pawnee Oct 29, 2021

Listen in for a special Halloween message from the man, the myth, the legend...Ron Master-of-Disguise Swanson himself! Recorded live in our studio for your listening pleasure!

From all of us at Live from Pawnee and the LFP Worldwide Headquarters, we wish all of you, our viewers, a Happy and Safe Halloween!

Special Look Back: Greg Pikitis Oct 27, 2021

As Mark and Allen make elaborate plans for the Live from Pawnee 1-year Anniversary celebration in November, they've left the projector room in Constantine's hands and he is loading up the reel for S02E07 - Greg Pikitis! So, we hope you'll join us for this walk down memory lane the FIRST of three Parks and Recreation Halloween episodes. It is a classic and introduces us to one of Leslie's oldest (but also likely youngest) nemesis...wait, where did all of this Toilet Paper come from?....Pikitis!

S03E11 - Jerry's Painting Oct 20, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces porn star Brandi Maxxxx! The gang attends an art show with paintings intended for government buildings. Jerry painted the topless centaur goddess Diaphena, which he accidentally made to look like Leslie. Jerry apologizes, but Leslie is oddly empowered by the painting. The next day Marcia Langman deems the painting unsuitable for government use and demands it be destroyed. Leslie goes on "Ya Heard? With Perd!" to rouse public support for the painting, and Chris convenes the Pawnee Public Arts Commission to rule on the painting. Meanwhile, now that Ben is permanently in Pawnee, he moves in with Andy and April, since previous owner Burly moved out and left the house to them. The two have only been on their own for a week, but the house is already a wreck, with no items like plates or utensils. Ben decides to teach a reluctant Andy and April how to properly live like adults. We ask the hard hitting questions, such as ... Are bills somehow less expensive if you freeze them? Will Leslie receive support from porn star Brandi Maxxxx? Will April and Andy each get their own fork? Does the fat little cherub in the painting look like anyone? Can you actually fry marbles? Grab your favorite podcast snack (Constantine recommends turkey chili in a frisbee) and tune in to enjoy this with us! Many thanks to our sponsor... er... Art....well, the Pawnee Arts Fair to be precise.

S0310 - Soulmates with Ken Whittingham Oct 13, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces Tom's crazy names for food and drink items! Acting City Manager Chris enacts a new health initiative and bans red meat from the commissary. Upset by this, Ron challenges Chris to a burger cook-off, cow vs turkey, with red meat staying if Ron wins. Chris meticulously gathers ingredients for the perfect turkey burger from his favorite health food market, Grain 'N Simple, while Ron simply buys a pound of red meat from Food and Stuff. Meanwhile, Leslie invites Ben to dinner, but is surprised when he turns her down. Ann convinces Leslie to join HoosierMate.com, and her profile finds a 98 percent match! They are horrified and confused to discover... it's Tom! We ask the tough questions so you don't have to, such as ... Why did Ben turn Leslie down? Can Chris' turkey burger wow the judges with its "umami flavor"? How in the world did Tom match with Leslie? Does Ron allow ketchup on his burger? Who will win the cook-off? Will Tom stop teasing Leslie, or will she kill him to death? Order yourself some chicky-chicky-parm-parm, relax in your favorite comfy chair, and enjoy this episode with us folks... it's a great one! Many thanks to our magnificent sponsor, Food And Stuff.

S03E09 - April and Andy's Fancy Party Oct 06, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that reveals April and Andy's full names! Andy and April invite everyone to their dinner party, asking everyone to bring stuff because they don't have anything. At the party, however, Leslie discovers Andy and April plan to surprise everyone by getting married that night! Leslie spends most of the party trying to dissuade them. Ron tells Leslie it is not his place, or hers, to interfere with their decision. Leslie just can't seem to let it go - she plans to object during the ceremony! Meanwhile, Ann goes to Eagleton to attend Single's Night at a bar, but once she gets there is extremely uncomfortable. She runs into Donna, who first views Ann as competition, but after witnessing Ann crash and burn, tries to help by offering some advice. To complicate matters, halfway through the night, Ann receives a call from Leslie telling her about Andy and April about to get married, and asks for her help! We're paid the big bucks to ask the big questions, such as ... Does everyone bring their assigned items to the party? Who ends up being Andy's best man? Will Leslie end up objecting to the marriage? Can Ann stop acting so awkwardly? Will Donna get Ann to take her advice? Does Ann leave to go assist Leslie? Folks, be sure not to miss this one! Equal parts silly and sweet, it's just what the doctor ordered. Many thanks to our amazing sponsor and sister company LFP World Musik: creators of "Mouse Rat, The Deluxe Edition" and "KidzPOP Covers Mouse Rat!". Order them soon on LivefromPawnee.com or pick them up at Food and Stuff!

Special Season 3 Grab Bag Sep 29, 2021

As the name would suggest, this week Mark and Allen have squashed a lot of stuff into one episode for your listening pleasure - a grab bag, if you will. Or, even if you won't. It is what it is. Buckle in. Some of the stuff they will be going over include, but are not limited to: [a] reviewing all episodes in the first half of Season 3, [b] sharing viewer feedback with all the other viewers (although we THINK maybe you're not viewers), and [c] indulging our unpaid producer, Constantine, by including a new segment he came up with. As Constantine says, "Don't be... Late To The Party!" (EDIT BY MARK AND ALLEN: Subtle, dude. Real subtle.)

S03E08 - Camping Sep 22, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that heralds the triumphant return of DJ Roomba! After City Manager Paul Iaresco has a heart attack, Chris comes back as acting city manager, asking Leslie for more revenue generating ideas. Leslie organizes a camping trip where the gang can brainstorm. Nobody comes up with anything good, assuming Leslie's ideas will be used. Leslie is finally forced to confess she's got nothing. Leslie becomes crazed and suggests they keep working straight through the night until they have something, but everyone is ready to throw in the towel, pack up, and head home... but they can't, since Tom hooked up all his electronics to the van battery and drained it! Meanwhile, Ann feels weird with Chris back, especially given how they broke up. Ann tries to read into an awkward jokey exchange they had, but Leslie shuts that down and invites Ann to go camping with them. During the retreat, Chris shows up on his nightly jog and asks about their ideas. Ann convinces Chris to leave with her so [a] they can talk, and [b] the gang can keep working in peace. Ann and Chris have a nice talk, with Chris suggesting they continue things over dinner at a rustic diner. Finally, April vents to Andy about how she's dreading the camping trip, but Andy loves camping, and wants her to love it too. He gets balloons, decorations, rose petals, champagne, etc. and sets up a romantic campsite for her... in the wrong place. A miserable April calls him, and when Andy realizes he's in the wrong place, he packs up and treks through the wilderness to find everyone. As always, we tackle the hard-hitting questions, such as ... Can Tom survive without his SkyMall electronics? Will the rustic diner have healthy food for Chris? Does Andy drink all the champagne during his trek just to stay alive? Will Leslie end up being known as a one-hit-wonder? Settle back with your head massager and your fondue pot, and enjoy this episode with us! Many thanks to our tremendous sponsor, "Wood You Rather".

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Pawnee Spotlight: Featuring Mo Collins Sep 15, 2021

This week, the upper brass at LFP Worldwide Headquarters have been kind enough to allow Mark and Allen to take some much deserved time off, so our onion-loving, unpaid producer Constantine is once more at the helm. (EDIT BY MARK AND ALLEN: Constantine, buddy, all you have to do is hit the bright red button. That's it. We even labeled it "Go For Mo". You can't miss it. C'mon, dude.) Intrepid interviewers Mark and Allen were lucky enough to catch the kind, gracious, and talented Mo Collins between shootings of Fear the Walking Dead, and proceed to enjoy a lengthy conversation with her about a plethora of subjects, including but not limited to her take on Pawnee Today host Joan Callemezzo, as well as the rest of the gang. Tune in - you won't regret it!

S03E07 - Harvest Festival - Part 2 with Jay Jackson Sep 08, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen finish breaking down the Episode that concludes the Season 3 story arc involving the Harvest Festival! When we last left our heroes, Leslie was trying her best to put on a wildly successful Harvest Festival, despite Wamapoke tribe leader Ken Hotate suggesting the presence of a curse, and journalist Joan Callamezzo looking for a scandal. To make things worse, Little Sebastian has gone missing! The gang assembles search parties, but has no luck on the ground, so they use the ferris wheel to get a bird's eye view. To contain the chaos, Leslie gives a press conference, and seems to be doing okay, when all of a sudden... the lights go out, machines shut down, the ferris wheel stops. Dogs and cats, living together... MASS HYSTERIA!!! Meanwhile, April took a chance and told Andy she loves him. His response is "Dude, shut up! That is awesome sauce!" April is mortified and humiliated, continuing to snipe angrily at Andy throughout the day, with Andy continuing to be clueless. April even goes so far as to threaten to leave for Venezuela... FOREVER! They show no signs of making up, and things are now even worse with them trapped on the ferris wheel together! Finally, Ann is working the First Aid with Donna, and admits she is not taking her break-up with Chris well, kind of bottoming out. A little later, a Jersey Shore wannabe comes to the first aid tent for dehydration, shamelessly hitting on Ann. When Ann turns him down, Donna suggests Ann follow the advice Grammy Meagle gave her: use him, abuse him, lose him... but Ann doesn't seem sure. We seek out the answers we know you all want, to questions such as ... Does the Harvest Festival turn out to be a failure? Is this the end of the Pawnee Parks and Recreation Department? Can April and Andy make up, or will this be it for them, perhaps sending April back into the arms of Venezuelian Jhonny? Will Ann take Grammy Meagle's advice, or will she continue to spend hundreds of dollars on candles from Anthropologie? Join us, true believers, for the second half of this mega block-buster episode, and see how it all ends! Once again, many thanks to our PAID sponsor: Reel Life Candles!

S03E07 - Harvest Festival - Part 1 with Mo Collins Sep 01, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces the legendary Pawnee mini horse, Little Sebastian! Leslie books Little Sebastian for the Harvest Festival, thrilling everyone except Ben (who doesn't get it). Wamapoke tribe leader Ken Hotate requests the festival be moved, since it's on a Wamapoke burial site. When a sympathetic Leslie explains it's too late, Ken warns them the festival may become cursed. Joan Callamezzo arrives to report on the festival, trying to find a negative angle, but failing... until she overhears Leslie and Ben discussing the curse, which then becomes the focus of her story. In addition, a certain mini horse may or may not have DISAPPEARED! Meanwhile, during the festival setup, April is inspired by how she feels about Andy, and tells him that she loves him. His response is "Dude, shut up! That is awesome sauce!" and gives her a high five. April is mortified, while Andy remains somewhat clueless. April continues to snipe angrily at Andy throughout the day, with Andy continuing to be confused. April even goes so far as to threaten to leave for Venezuela... FOREVER! Finally, Ann is working the festival First Aid tent along with Donna. While prepping the tent, Donna asks Ann about Chris, and Ann admits she has bottomed out. Later, an attractive but dumb guy comes to the first aid tent for dehydration. While Ann treats him, he shamelessly hits on her, but Ann turns him down. Donna suggests Ann not think of him as boyfriend material, but rather use him, abuse him, lose him. We handle the questions so you don't have to, such as ... Does the gang ever find Little Sebastian? Is there actually a curse? Will April go to Venezuela to return to the arms of Jhonny? Can Donna get Ann to take Grammy Meagle's advice? Join us for the first half of this mega block-buster episode, then join us next week for part 2. You won't regret it!

Many thanks to our PAID sponsor (sorry Ron): Reel Life Candle Co.
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S03E06 - Indianapolis Aug 25, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces the one and only Janet Snakehole! Leslie and Ron are traveling to Indianapolis to receive a commendation for reestablishing the Pawnee Harvest Festival, even though Ron only cares about eating at his favorite restaurant, Charles Mulligan's Steak House. Ann tells Leslie her last talk with Chris seemed reassuring, but (now in Indianapolis) he's grown distant, and she's worried he's cheating on her. Promising to poke around and see what's going on, Leslie and Ron visit Chris' apartment, where Leslie discovers a woman's razor and pink swimming cap in the bathroom. Hearing this, Ann drives up to Indianapolis to confront Chris. To Ron's horror, Mulligan's Steakhouse has been shut down by the health department, so Chris invites everyone back to his place for food. To Ron's further horror, Chris prepares vegetarian dishes, Ron threatens to pass out in hunger and despair, and then Ann storms in and demands an explanation for the things Leslie found! Meanwhile, back in Pawnee, Tom is attending a launch party for cologne maker Dennis Feinstein at the Snakehole Lounge, where Tom hopes to pitch his own cologne "Tommy Fresh". Since Ben's job requires him to move a lot, he turns down the invitation, not wanting to get too attached to anybody. However, Ben relents when Tom invites him again at Leslie's urging. Meanwhile, April and Andy are now dating, and April suggests they go to Tom's launch party. When they get there, Andy becomes bummed out, realizing he is broke and unable to buy anything, embarrassed to admit this to April. Tom approaches Dennis, who insults "Tommy Fresh" and quickly dismisses Tom. We brave the onslaught of questions, such as ... Have Tom's perfumery dreams been destroyed? Will Leslie receive her commendation? What will April and Andy do on their date with no money? Does Chris explain what is going on? Is Ben really one of the gang, or is the gang just being polite? Can Ron recover from the Mulligan's Steakhouse debacle? How will they get back at Dennis Feinstein? Grab a Tommy-tini and relax, podcast viewers... this will be a great one! Many thanks to our paid Public Service Announcement entitled "MoM" (Memories of Mulligan's).

S03E05 - Media Blitz Aug 18, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces Crazy Ira and The Douche! Leslie, Tom, and Ben start promoting the Harvest Festival, starting with radio show "Crazy Ira and The Douche". Ben is asked about his time as a teen mayor, where he bankrupted the town, to which Ben responds awkwardly, stammering and unable to defend himself. Ben's past continues to come up during Leslie's interview with Shauna Malwae-Tweep (which she manages to downplay), and Tom and Ben's interview with Perd Hapley, during which Ben launches into a furious, incoherent rant. Realizing several businesses may pull their sponsorships from the Harvest Festival due to Ben's behavior, Leslie tries to stay focused on the upcoming interview with Joan Callamezzo on "Pawnee Today" to perform damage control. Meanwhile, after discussing some details with Chris, April accepts his offer to work for him in Indianapolis. When Andy finds out, he begs April to reconsider, offering to take care of stuff she hates doing for a month. She agrees, but appears to have no intention of changing her mind. When Ron finds out, he volunteers to help, claiming he doesn't care about their relationship, but he does not want to lose April as an assistant. Andy's difficult day of running errands for April culminates with him getting ARRESTED after April's sister Natalie claims he is kidnapping her when he is merely picking her up from school! Finally, Ann is growing increasingly frustrated not knowing the future of her relationship with Chris, something which is exacerbated by Chris making a point to ask April if SHE will accompany him to Indianapolis. During a pleasant lunch, Ann drops several obvious hints that she is not tied down to anything in Pawnee, including her house, which Chris does not seem to pick up on. Eventually, Chris does mention to Ann that after Indianapolis, he will be sent to a different city. Loyal podcast viewers, we have answers to all your questions, such as ... How does one handle getting clubbed in the nuggets? Is there actually a bird flying around Perd's studio? Will Sweetums end up cancelling the Fat-Coaster? What even is the spirit of melancholy? What town in Indiana do cows outnumber people 40 to 1? Does Chris end up defining Ann's bagua? Unpaid producer Constantine highly recommends this one: Sweet moments, funny moments, plot advancements, space farts... this one has it all, folks! Tune in and see if Constantine was right. (EDIT BY MARK AND ALLEN: If he's not, he'll be sitting in the spank chair.) Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, the C.R.O.P.T. - the Committee to Relaunch Our Pawnee Traditions!

S03E04 - Ron and Tammy 2 Aug 11, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode with the return of the evil one... that's right... RON'S EX-WIFE TAMMY!!! Tammy once again attempts to sabotage Ron's life, but he resists her wiles, mostly due to his relationship with Tom's ex-wife Wendy. However, later Wendy and Ron break up when she announces she's moving back to Canada. Meanwhile, in order to pull off the upcoming Harvest Festival, Leslie and gang need the Pawnee Police Department to volunteer as security during the event. To this end, they throw a party for the boys in blue, hoping to later ask them for the Harvest Festival favor. At the party, Ben has awkward interactions with Chief Trumple (causing Leslie to postpone asking for the favor), Ron drowns his sorrows about Wendy at the bar, and Tom arrives with Tammy as his date to get back at Ron. After fighting loudly, Ron and Tammy leave the party to try and make amends. However, a night filled with drunken sex and mayhem ensues, ending with the two getting remarried and ending up in jail. The next day, when she finds out about the arrests, Leslie asks for Ron to be released to her custody. This causes Ben to be concerned about "wasting" the earned favor. After getting Ron released, as a last ditch effort the gang holds an intervention for him, even playing a tape Ron made for himself. In a sub-plot, we see April filling in as Chris' assistant until he goes back to Indianapolis. April's cynicism and Chris' relentless optimism clash, driving April crazy. In an attempt to get fired, April purposely neglects to tell Ann that Chris cannot make a lunch date. When Ann arrives to confront Chris, however, she quickly realizes April's ploy. As always, your podcast hosts don't flinch away from the tough stuff, such as ... Will the gang's intervention for Ron work? Can Ron get through to himself? Did Leslie waste her favor with Chief Trumple? Can Ben stop being so awkward? Will Chris drive April crazy? Does April end up buying the dreaded orange post-its? Will Tom and Ron ever made amends? Can FBI Agent Burt Macklin help April out of her predicament? Constantine urges you all to tune your podcast dials and listen in, as during this show, he is presenting to the world his VERY FIRST production clip! (EDIT BY MARK AND ALLEN: It's about time - what was this promotion even for?) Many thanks to our sponsor, and favorite watering hole, O'Shays Irish Pub.

S03E03 - Time Capsule Aug 04, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces the infamous JJ's Diner special, the "Four Horse-Meals of the Egg-Pork-alypse"! Leslie is organizing a time capsule filled with items representing the spirit of Pawnee. Citizen Kelly Larson visits Leslie to plead his case for the Twilight books to go in the time capsule. Leslie says no, and in response Kelly handcuffs himself to a pipe in her office, clearly planned in advance. Tom is sad because he got dumped by Lucy (even though he doesn't know why), which Kelly notices. Kelly says Tom will feel better if he reads Twilight, which he initially scoffs at, but is willing to give it a try. Leslie eventually notices the name "Liz Waverly" in one of Kelly's Twilight books, does research, and confronts Kelly with her conclusion that Liz... is his daughter! Meanwhile... Andy is still pining for April, who is dating the charming and handsome Eduardo. Having recently bonded a bit with Andy over some shoe-shining sessions (making Ann nervous), Chris wants to help Andy. Chris suggests Andy tap into aspects of his personality April initially liked, but Andy can only come up with "I'm nice" and "I'm in a band". A bit later, Andy sees Eduardo by himself, and decides to take the high road, apologizing to him about being a jerk, and promising to be nice from now on. As always, your brave podcast hosts tackle the hard-hitting questions, like ... Is Liz truly Kelly's daughter? Does Eduardo accept Andy's apology? Will Tom enjoy the Twilight books? Can Ann ever stop being nervous about Chris and Andy hanging out? How does Kelly go to the bathroom if he's handcuffed? Does Tom ever find out why Lucy dumped him? Will Twilight get included in the time capsule? Is friendship possible between Andy and Eduardo? Folks, you'll be sorry if you miss this one - be sure to tune in! Many thanks to our wonderful sponsor, the Summer Movies Under the Stars Festival.

S03E02 - Flu Season with Norm Hiscock Jul 28, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Chris tells himself to ... STOP ... POOPING!!! The flu is sweeping across Pawnee, with Ann caring for many of the sick, including April (who still resents Ann for kissing Andy). While Ron visits April, she asks him not to tell Andy she's there. With April gone, Ron does ask Andy to fill in as an assistant, believing (correctly) that Andy will be ineffective. Meanwhile, Leslie is preparing for a presentation with the Pawnee Chamber of Commerce, and it becomes clear Leslie is not feeling well, but she won't admit it because of the importance of the presentation. Ben finally takes a reluctant Leslie to the hospital, Ann admits her, and Ben tells her not to worry, he and Tom will do the presentation, which Leslie is not happy about. A bit later, a flu-ridden Chris is checked into the hospital, having a total physical breakdown. Ann has been dating Chris, and really likes him, but fears he is too perfect... until now. Meanwhile, instead of helping Ben prepare for the presentation, Tom abandons him to hang out at a spa. As the day goes on, Ron and Andy bond over many things, including food, drink, football, and politics, with Andy eventually feeling comfortable enough with Ron to tell him about his problems with April. To top things off, a delirious and over-medicated Leslie escapes the hospital and heads back to City Hall to do the presentation herself! Never fear - as always, we answer all the questions others are afraid to even verbalize, such as ... Will April's constant poking at Ann make her break? Will Andy ever find out April is at the hospital? How will Ann feel about Chris now that he is essentially a puddle of goo? Does Tom ever come back from the spa? Will Leslie make it to City Hall? Will Ben decide to introduce himself musically? Will Ron and Andy ever successfully complete a passing play outside? Will the Harvest Festival fail before it even starts? Loyal podcast viewers, this is one of the BEST episodes of the series - fight us about it! Or, just tune in and enjoy it. Yes, that's probably better. Many thanks to our awesome sponsor, Big Head Joe's.

S03E01 - Go Big or Go Home Jul 22, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces the often imitated but never duplicated Swanson Pyramid of Greatness! The government shutdown is over, and the Parks Department is back, although on a shoestring budget, with Chris and Ben only letting them conduct existing park maintenance. Wanting to offer and do more, Leslie has a brainstorm when she learns Chris has continued to ask out Ann... convince Ann to go on a date with Chris in order to persuade him to increase the parks budget! (What could go wrong?) Meanwhile, due to popular demand, Ben did allow one exception to the maintenance-only rule, and allocated money for the youth basketball league, although with only two teams (they're gonna be GREAT rivals) coached by Ron and Andy, with Tom chosen to referee their first game. Finally, ever since the disaster when April learned about Ann kissing him, Andy has been calling April non-stop hoping to get in touch with her, explain, and smooth things over. What Andy didn't know is that April was in Venezuela all this time. When he finally sees her return, he excitedly jumps at the opportunity to connect with her... only to learn that she is back in town with mysterious, handsome new boyfriend Eduardo. Holy cow! Do we have questions to tackle? You bet we do! Important questions, such as ... Will Ann go out with Chris? Are she and Leslie sneaky enough to pull this off? Will Ron's team win, or will Andy's team pull a stunning upset? Whose team has the better battle-cry? Will Tom learn basketball in time to correctly referee the game? Is April truly over Andy? Will Eduardo encourage Andy to follow his dreams? Loyal podcast viewers, this is a great start to a great season! Keep your hands and feet inside the car at all times - it's going to be a wild ride. Many thanks to our mystery sponsor, providing a new product from the makers of the Swanson Pyramid of Greatness - you'll just have to listen to find out!

Pawnee Spotlight: Featuring Christopher Murray Jul 15, 2021

Mark and Allen are enjoying some well-earned time off this week but they've left newly promoted Constantine in charge and are confident he will play the right Episode...this time. After all, he is no longer confusing the 8-Track's with the Digital archives and we've locked up the Vinyl collection just in case too. Join us as the guys interview the very kind and very gracious Christopher Murray! Christopher talks Parks and Rec as well as giving us a special inside look at growing up in Hollywood and his wealth of experience including co-starting alongside huge movie stars like Denzel Washington, Laurence Fishburne and Sean Connery - 007 himself! Even our frequent guest pitch-man (who is also off this week) was slightly star struck...You know him better as Swanson...Ron Swanson!

Revisited : Season 2 Recap Jul 08, 2021

In this Special Revisited episode, not only do we recap the last two-thirds of Season 2; but, we also spend some time introducing and giving first impressions of Ben and Chris as well as being joined by special guest Josh Kraus (@ParksAndRecNow) on for an interview to discuss his terrific spec script "The Return of Mark Brendanawicz”! Don't miss out on this chance to catch up and level set before we jump headfirst into Season 3!

https://twitter.com/ParksAndRecNow

S02E24 - Freddy Spaghetti Jul 01, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that bids farewell to Mark Brendanawicz. Due to the government shutdown, the kids' concert featuring Freddy Spaghetti is cancelled - but not without a fight from Leslie! Hosting the concert on Lot 48 by Ann's house, Leslie pulls together the gang to save the day. Ron has been assigned to the Emergency Budget Task Force, and is initially giddy at cuts proposed by Chris and Ben, but objects when he learns they plan to fire Leslie. Meanwhile, Andy tries to talk to April, Ann struggles with what's next in her life, Chris and Ben try to shut the concert down, Andy breaks his arm - non stop action folks! As always, your Prolific Podcast Pundits dive into the questions keeping you up at night, such as ... When should you play Boyz II Men 'On Bended Knee'? What is the proper name for a turkey leg covered in bacon? How many minutes does a Bounce House need for premium bounce? What is Leslie's favorite Freddy Spaghetti song? Is the song 'Pickle Hair' kid friendy? (Edit by Constantine: NO. The answer is NO.) Tune your podcast dials in for this one, folks, you won't be sorry! Our sincere thanks goes out to our sponsor, BLAH BLAH BLAH, as well as you, all of our loyal Live From Pawnee podcast viewers. (Edit by Constantine: These guys are idiots. We KNOW you're not viewers.)

S02E23 - The Master Plan Jun 24, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces Chris Traeger and Ben Wyatt! We start out learning [a] April is turning 21 and having her birthday party at The Snakehole Lounge, [b] Ann has ended things with Mark, and [c] Leslie has prepared a budget proposal for the Lot 48 Park. However, later that morning city manager Paul Iaresco announces all proposals are postponed indefinitely due to the budget crisis, and state auditors have been sent to solve the issue. Leslie fears severe cuts, while Ron is delighted. Meanwhile, Andy is clearly showing interest in April, but worries about the 8 year age difference. Also, Mark shows confusion about his breakup with Ann because they never fought or argued, while Ann explains they just didn't have the right chemistry/passion. We learn Tom has ulterior motives for April's party to invite (then hit on) every available hottie he knows. Auditors Chris Traeger and Ben Wyatt arrive, with Chris painting an optimistic picture of how they will fix things. When Ben finally explains they need to slash the budget by 40 to 50 percent, Leslie lashes out at Ben, who reminds her the poorly-managed government is to blame. Later at April's party, Leslie and Ann get extremely drunk. Tom is frustrated at his inability to pick up women. Andy and April are getting along, but when he goes to the bar to get April's drink, a drunken Ann flirts with him. This upsets April, who tries to make Andy jealous by flirting with Jean-Ralphio. Ben arrives and tries to smooth things over with a drunken Leslie, but she once more lashes outand tells him to get lost. The next morning Ann enlists Leslie's help in figuring out... who she made out with the prior night! Holy cow, folks, these are the sort of questions that send others running for cover, but we refuse to shy away from, such as... Will Pawnee's budget crisis get resolved? Can Ann ever forgive herself for flirting with Andy? Does Tom's bottlecap game yield any fruit? Can Leslie ever get along with Ben? Will April make Jean-Ralphio her new boyfriend? Does Ann find out who she made out with? Loyal podcast viewers, this extra-long, extra special episode is one-of-a-kind, and we encourage everyone to watch it. Many thanks to our sponsor, JJ's Diner.

S02E22 - Telethon Jun 17, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that has Joan Callemezzo, Perd Hapley, MC Martin Housely, and Joe from the Sewer Department all under the same roof! Given a 4 hour programming block (2am to 6am) for the 24-hour "Pawnee Cares" diabetes telethon starting that night, Leslie (who has already been up for 24 hours) gets everyone involved, including sending Tom as the body man for retired basketball player Detlef Schrempf. With time to kill, Tom brings Detlef to the Snakehole Lounge, bringing a LOT of business in, but resulting in owner Freddy refusing to let him go. Several "talents" go on-air, including songs by Mouse Rat, Ron's chair-caning demo, and accountant Barney demonstrating QuickBooks Pro. Remembering that Mark told her earlier he plans to propose to Ann, a desperate Leslie tells Mark he should do it on-air. Folks, this is what we're here to do, get the bottom of such riveting questions, like ... Exactly how tall is Tom? Will Mark propose to Ann on the air? What precisely is sleep-fighting? Can Detlef Schrempf make it to the telethon? Will Leslie fall asleep before her programming block is over? What the **** IS Perd Hapley doing on-air? Loyal podcast viewers, this episode is absolutely chock-a-block full of guest stars - you won't be able to keep track of them all! Many thanks to our sponsor Entertainment 720 and their award-hopeful film: "Identity Crisis: This is Mouse Rat".

S02E21 - 94 Meetings with Christopher Murray Jun 10, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that finally introduces us to April's family and casa Ludgate! Forced to deal with 93 meetings in a single day (due to a mistake by a guilty and embarrassed April), Ron enlists the aid of April, Andy, and Ann. As the day progresses, meetings are handled with mixed results: Ron just silently listens saying as little as possible, and is on the verge of snapping; April embraces complete fantasy (e.g. Ron is dead and she's his daughter); Andy struggles to not make promises (and is also just Andy); and after revealing she is a nurse, Ann provides several free medical consults. Meanwhile, Leslie attempts to help Ron, but her first meeting reveals that Turnbill Mansion is being altered by Jessica Wicks while planning an extravagant birthday party for her new husband, the wealthy Nick Newport Sr, founder of Sweetums. Leslie and Tom spring into action to mitigate the damage as best they can. They find several extreme alterations are already done, and Leslie is outraged to learn Jessica plans to demolish a gazebo in the backyard. Viewers, we have never avoided the tough questions, and we're not starting now, such as... Will April earn back Ron's trust? How can Leslie prevent the destruction of the gazebo? Does Andy promise away the entire city? Will Tom get sufficient time to suck up to Jessica Wicks? Can Ron make it through the day without exploding? Stay tuned folks, this will be a doozy! Many thanks to our sponsor, the one and only Sweetums: "If you can't beat 'em, Sweetums!"

S02E20 - Summer Catalog Jun 02, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces the three men that preceded Ron as Pawnee Parks Director! Working on the Pawnee Summer Catalog, Leslie puts together a reunion between Ron Swanson and his three Park Director predecessors. She hopes it will be a joyous occasion and plans to write a letter about it for the catalog. However, they all suck. None of the four men get along with each other, and they each have their own less than admirable traits: Clarence (sexist), David (litters, doesn't care about parks), Michael (obsessed with marijuana), and Ron is...well... Ron. Meanwhile, Tom has been tasked with taking the cover photo for the Summer Catalog, and convinces Ann and Mark to pose for photos at a community park. Tom is repeatedly frustrated with Ann, who has a difficult time appearing happy. When the photos are finished, Ann agrees that she looks miserable and asks that the pictures not be used. Mark appears concerned that Ann's unhappiness is a reflection of their relationship. Additionally, April and Andy have been hanging out more and growing closer. After helping Leslie set up the Park Director reunion picnic, Andy asks April to get drinks after work, and she quickly agrees. But when they arrive at the bar, the bouncer notices April appears to be underage, and her ID confirms she is 20... which makes Andy uncomfortable. Loyal viewers, as always we tackle the hard-hitting questions so you don't have to, such as... How does one accurately convey "slithering"? Why would anyone eat anything other than breakfast food? What exactly IS Tom thinking in that hi-res photo? Will Leslie's letter ever get written? Does Andy get over his discomfort with April's age? Folks, you don't want to miss this one. NOTE: Our intern, Constantine, has requested that those who join us please bring sufficient bacon for trail snacks... we don't want any tantrums. Many thanks to our inimitable sponsor, JJ's Diner.

S02E19 - Park Safety May 26, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that reveals the secret to Jerry's approach to life (you'll have to wait until the very end). When Jerry gets mugged while refilling the park's hummingbird feeders, Leslie feels bad about how much they make fun of him, and urges the gang to refrain, while also working with LOUD park security ranger Carl to try and make the parks safer. Going on Pawnee Today, Leslie says the Pawnee government failed the parks, security is poor, and they need more funding. Although angering City Manager Paul Iaresco, the TV stunt worked, causing Mayor Gunderson to offer $2,500 towards fixing the park. However, at a press conference Jerry makes a confession to Leslie that perhaps things happened a little differently than he said. Meanwhile, we observe some odd love-triangle-esque interactions and behavior from Ann (who says Andy is a fun person but completely reliant on others), April (who likes Andy, and plain doesn't like Ann), and Andy (who is a dim-witted but loveable goofball). After Andy is accidentally knocked out by Ron during a self-defense class, Ann brings Andy gifts at the shoe shine stand to help him feel better... also making April jealous. However, we've seen Andy think of others lately... particularly April. Once again, we address the toughest questions known to mankind, such as... What is the confession Jerry makes to Leslie? Will the gang continue to make fun of him? Is it okay to attack a criminal's bean bag? Did the movie Avatar truly live up to the hype? What exactly does "walking Lord Sheldon" mean? Loyal viewers, this is a memorable episode for sure - don't miss it! NOTE: Our intern, Constantine, asks that if you join us, please refrain from getting breakfast burritos... it could be unpleasant for all involved. Many thanks to our awesome sponsor, the Ron Swanson Self-Defense and Self-Respect Couse (or RSSDSRC).

S02E18 - The Possum May 19, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that not only introduces Pawnee Animal Control, but also gives us a sneak peak at Ron's Haven! When Mayor Gunderson's dog Rufus (everybody loves Rufus) is bitten by the infamous possum Fairway Frank at Pawnee Municipal Golf Course, mayoral representative Evelyn Roushland asks Leslie to take action. Leslie forms a Task Force (including two burnout Animal Control workers) and searches for Fairway Frank at the golf course. After Andy dives on it and captures it, Evelyn promises Leslie a special favor from the mayor's office. However, Leslie later sees a second possum and fears they have captured the wrong animal. Meanwhile, Ron wants to expand his home woodshop and seeks a quick approval from Mark, who informs Ron an inspection is needed to ensure it meets zoning code standards. During the inspection, Mark finds numerous code violations, frustrating Ron. Ron tries to bribe Mark with a canoe, which frustrates Mark. As always, we face the hard-hitting questions straight-on, such as... Do they confirm Fairway Frank's identity? Will they send an innocent possum to fry? Will Andy become known as a famous possum tackler? Will Ron acknowledge his wood shop needs a tune-up? Will Mark canoe his way up the Swanson river without a paddle? Podcast viewers, there's enough content here to choke a possum... maybe literally! Sit back, relax, and drink it all in. Many thanks to our awesome sponsor, Offerman Woodshop.

S02E17 - Woman of the Year May 12, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces the inside of the famous Snakehole Lounge nightclub! A letter to the department makes Leslie think she is being named Woman of the Year, but instead it is going to Ron! While Ron knows this is a dumb mistake, he uses it to tease Leslie for caring about "crap like this", fully intending to later recommend her as the rightful recipient. Meanwhile, Tom is doing his best to invest in the Snakehole Lounge, but the shares are $10,000. Dreaming of being a club owner, Tom seeks assistance from several people, including Donna, Jerry, Mark, and the fast-talking Jean-Ralphio. Finally, Andy has been living with bandmate Burly rent free, and is told to change his living habits or move out. This leads April to help Andy find his own place... perhaps one close to April's place so they can carpool to work together? As always, we attack the scariest of questions, such as... How do you create a Bag of Smells, and what would that experiment teach us? What is a Smurf Girl Trophy? How would Tom's face look on legal tender? When will Andy realize April is WAY into him? Loyal podcast viewers, this is a good one, be sure not to miss it! NOTE: Constantine asks you not spill your soup all over everything - take it like a man. Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, Pawnee Super Suites.

S02E16 - Galentine's Day May 05, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that not only introduces Galentine's Day, but also Dennis Feinstein's unforgettable perfume line! When Leslie's boyfriend Justin hears a story from Marlene (Leslie's mom) about Frank "the one that got away", Leslie and Justin track him down to reunite them at the Valentine's Day dance at the Senior Center. Meanwhile, Andy and his band are nervous about playing "old fogey" songs for the dance. As it turns out, the senior center ends up being the stage for several relationships to progress (or perhaps regress), including Mark and Ann, Tom and Wendy, our favorite throuple April/Derek/Ben, Leslie and Justin, and of course... Marlene and Frank! Once again, nothing is safe from us, as we fearlessly pursue the answers to questions such as... What is the old lady version of flashing? Is it okay for someone to blackmail you into a date? What is Leslie's definition of a nooner? How should a daughter refer to her new step-dad? (UPDATE: The scientists at LFP Worldwide Headquarters have done some research, and the answer is "Poo-Paw".) Podcast viewers, tune your dials accordingly for this iconic episode, it's going to be great! Constantine asks you also stick with us through the rest of the series. Please don't be a tourist. Many thanks to our irreplaceable sponsor, J.J.'s Diner.

Special Mailbag Episode #4 - Season 2 Midpoint Apr 28, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen utilize the varied talents of unpaid intern Constantine to select the questions. This could be dangerous, but our intrepid hosts are not afraid! As always, Mark and Allen answer some questions that have been on the viewers minds for quite some time, including questions about Mike Schur, podcasting in general, Kevin Symons, our impression of characters so far, and more! As well, we may tackle some tangential questions, such as... Are the awesome and loyal LFP podcast viewers actually viewers? Will we be interviewing any more Parks and Rec cast members? This is ten pounds of goodness in a five pound bag, folks. So kick back, get your favorite beverage, tune your podcast dials as needed, and enjoy the ride.

S02E15 - Sweetums Apr 21, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that gives us a greater understanding of one of Pawnee's oldest and best known institutions... Sweetums! Sweetums tries partnering with the Parks Dept to market NutriYum Bars to park visitors. Ideologies clash as Ron (consumer choice) squares off against Leslie (public safety). Convincing City Manager Paul Iaresco to hold a public forum as a CYA move, Leslie has one last shot at defeating the proposal. Meanwhile, the rest of the gang helps Tom move out of Wendy's house, which Tom hasn't prepared for at all, to everyone's chagrin. Additionally, during Tom's move, we see April's loyalties split between Andy and the throuple. Once again we tackle the hard hitting questions, such as... what is "turf and turf"? Is it acceptable for one to pour Wild Turkey on their cornflakes? Can a machine be killed? If so, can it come back to life and haunt people? How many boxes can Donna's "baby" hold? (Don't judge, it has a delicate suspension.) Tune in, podcast viewers, although you might want to sit down... you WILL be crashing soon. P.S. Please ignore the punk ass book jockeys. Many thanks to our often imitated but never duplicated sponsor, the one and only, Sweetums.

S02E14 - Leslie's House Apr 14, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that lets us finally peer inside the one area of Leslie's life that has remained a mystery - her house! Having been on several great dates with Justin, Leslie wants to plan their best date ever for when he next comes to Pawnee. It quickly becomes obvious she has bitten off more than she can chew. In desperation, Leslie reaches out to her friends, then to the Pawnee Rec Center teachers. However, the teachers, who days ago had been told the reduced city budget would force 5 classes to close, interpret this as Leslie soliciting a bribe from them in the form of free services. Combine this with potential awkwardness (Andy/Mark, Mark/Justin, Tom/Wendy), borderline gluttony (Ron bringing his own tray of deviled eggs which he does not want to share), underage drinking (April and her friends), and very hot peppers (wait and see), this party could be a royal gala or a powder keg. Which way will it lean? What will happen? Stay tuned, loyal podcast viewers... the answers will be revealed! This is ramping up to be a good one. NOTE: We're not saying we don't trust you... but leave any chewing gum at the door. Many thanks to our amazing sponsor, the William Percy Recreation Center.

S02E13 - The Setup Apr 07, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that reminds us all just how awkward being setup can actually be! For starters, while Leslie is interested in Justin, an old attorney friend of Ann's, Ann is clearly saving him for herself and sets up Leslie with a really...interesting...doctor she kind of knows. A really awkward dinner date leads to an even more awkward MRI. Meanwhile, Mark is having a bad day as he suspects Ann's motivation vis a vis Justin AND has to endure 'Marley and Me' to make matters even worse. Finally, and most importantly to Ron, Tom helps Ron search for an taxpayer funded assistant to help save Ron from the taxpayers themselves! We meet lots of unmemorable candidates before meeting "The Worst" of them all - the one and only Jean-Ralphio Saperstein!

S02E12 - Christmas Scandal with Kevin Symons - Part 2 Mar 31, 2021

When we last left our heroes, the brave Mark and Allen (and almost-as-brave intern Constantine) had valiantly broken down Christmas Scandal, the very first Park & Recs Christmas episode. Five storylines, people! Five!!! They walked through the episode scene by scene, discussed the highs and lows, the funny points, the heart moments, and everything in between. In the second half, they will discuss the episode overall, including Firsts, Tropes, Deleted Scenes, and finally, the all-important and ever-popular scoring segment! Here at LFP Worldwide Headquarters, we know how much you like your "Sexy Dexy". Therefore, after the Live From Pawnee "main course", we will provide the perfect "after dinner coffee" with the conclusion of our exclusive Kevin Symons interview! So to all of our loyal podcast viewers ... get comfortable, tune your podcast dials accordingly, and keep up - this will be a fun ride. (P.S. We know you're not viewers.)
Check out Kevin Symons here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEQdbINKqPfzDhm7LFMG\_2g
https://www.instagram.com/thekevinsymons/
https://twitter.com/TheKevinSymons
https://www.cameo.com/kevinsymons1

S02E12 - Christmas Scandal with Kevin Symons - Part 1 Mar 24, 2021

Get out your calculators and count along with us as Mark and Allen breakdown this jam-packed episode that has no less than 5 story lines! In fact this episode has so much going on that we decided to break it into 2-parts this week. We've got Christmas Follies, sex scandals, gift exchanges, liver-ladies, life-altering relationship decisions and did we mention sex scandals? We're talking about, of course, S02E12 "Christmas Scandal"! Tune in to hear what happens when Leslie is falsly accused of an affair with Councilman "Sexy Dexy" Dexhart and the gang does their best to cover Leslie's insane schedule and preparations for the "Winter Wonderland" community event as she takes some time off to clear her name. Meanwhile, Andy has been thinking of April's gay boyfriend all day and Mark and Tom debate the merits of blood diamonds as a Christmas gift for Ann.

Check out Kevin Symons here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEQdbINKqPfzDhm7LFMG\_2g
https://www.instagram.com/thekevinsymons/
https://twitter.com/TheKevinSymons
https://www.cameo.com/kevinsymons1

Coming Soon: Christmas Scandal Bonus Episode and Special Guest! Mar 17, 2021

Paid spokes-shill, Ron Swanson, has a special message for you this week from LFP Worldwide HQ! Listen in as he spills the tea on our special, 2-part rewatch of Parks and Recreation's Season 2 Christmas Scandal! Be sure to tune in that podcast dial when the fellas are back from their break and listen to the special interview with Sexy Dexy himself!

Revisited: First Fifteen Mar 10, 2021

As the name would suggest, this week Mark and Allen welcome our newest "viewers" and do a quick review of the first 15 episodes of Parks & Rec we covered on the podcast. The episodes and their scores will be listed, grouped, tiered, summarized, triangulated, and other nonsense mathematical terms until the abacus breaks from stress! Will any episodes get re-scored? Who knows? Anything could happen. Before he left, Constantine left us these questions to tackle: "Why are these two still on the air?" "How do I change the station?" "Where are my onions?" "Are they really viewers?" (EDIT: Ha ha, Constantine. Please report to HR when you get back.) Many thanks to our fantastic sponsor, Apple.

S02E11 - Tom's Divorce Mar 03, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode where Tom and Wendy officially call it splits ... it turns out even for fake marriages, love hurts! Finding out Tom and Wendy got divorced, Leslie does everything she can to make Tom feel better, not knowing that it was a green-card marriage. Leslie and gang plan a fun night out for Tom, but it's possible no one knows how Tom really feels about the divorce... During all the divorce shenanigans, Andy continues his efforts to pursue Ann, including trying to insult and belittle Mark. Finally, Andy challenges Mark to a game of pool with the hopes of hustling him... which don't turn out as he expects. The stakes continue to rise... the pot grows bigger and bigger... What will happen? Who will win? No one knows! As always, we tackle the tough, gritty questions others shows run screaming from, like ... What is going on with the mysterious 4th floor? Is it a horrorscape, the Twilight Zone, or a gateway to Narnia? What would Leslie's stripper name be? Is it disturbing that Jerry wants Tom's body? (Yes. Yes it is.) Can you legally win a person from a game of pool? What is "the perfect spooning size"? Do dinosaur-themed restaurants ever get old? (This one depends on who you ask.) Loyal podcast viewers, so much goodness has been crammed into this episode, we almost made a table of contents just to keep up. (Yes, we know you're not viewers.) So come on out with us, and bring your appetite! We hear that Seabiscuit is waiting for you. Many thanks to our wonderful sponsors, Jurassic Fork and The Glitter Factory.

S02E10 - Hunting Trip Feb 24, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that shows us how to be one of the boys... sometimes even better than one of the boys! Leslie convinces Ron to let the women (and Tom, LOL) come on an anuual hunting trip with the guys. Ron is not happy about this change of plan, but Leslie is determined to prove she can hang with the guys. Things don't exactly go as planned... there may or may not be some gun mishaps... and comedy ensues. Meanwhile, with everyone else on the hunting trip, April is ordered to do boring phone work, and Andy is just wandering around... so they end up hanging out and engaging in a series of fun activities. As always, we tackle the hard questions no other show will confront, such as ... What is the difference between the male and female turkey call? Is it true they both sound like rap music? What's the most important rule of chewing tobacco? How do you restrain a furious Ron? What's more beneficial - shooting over someone's head, or shooting under it? What is "Spit-Take Theater"? Folks, there's so much educational goodness here, you might as well get college credit. So join us. It'll be fun. But for God's sake... if you value your life... do NOT shoot at Donna's car. A tip of our hunter's hat to our amazing sponsors, the Pawnee Fishing Bureau and Slippery Elm State Park.

Special Mailbag Episode #3 - Galentine's Day Edition Feb 17, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen share the love while sharing the answers you've been looking for - Galentine's Day style! As always, the mail is really piling up, and one can consume only so many candy hearts and boxes of chocolates before taking action. So once again, assisted by unpaid intern Constantine, they go through your questions and pick the cream of the crop to talk about. Sweet relationships? Funny relationships? Dysfunctional relationships? Folks, we've got it all here. Get ready for good vibes as they attempt to answer relationship-based questions sent in by YOU, our smart and talented viewers! (YES ... we know you're not viewers.) So kick back, turn your podcast dials accordingly, and embrace it. You know you want to.

A Special Galentine's Day Message from Ron Swanson Feb 13, 2021

Join us for a special, heart-felt message from Mr. Romance - Ron Swanson himself! Listen as Ron shares his thoughts on the BIG LIE created by the Greeting Card industry and quickly changes the topic to something far more comfortable for him to discuss. Learn about the origins of the now-famous Galentine's Day and bask in the beautifully radiant mid-February weather as we wait out the Spring thaw together!

S02E09 "The Camel" Feb 10, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that shows us how great team building can be... and how awful some noises can be. After a mural in City Hall is defaced, the Pawnee departments compete to design a new replacement. Leslie and gang face adversity in the process, both from without (Sewage Department) and from within (disagreement in the ranks). Meanwhile, business is booming for Andy's shoe-shine stand, and Ron shows support by getting his shoes shined. In the process, Andy and Ron share... an uncomfortable moment... and are unsure how to deal with it. As always, we tackle hard questions that would break lesser men, such as... Which is better, a lizard puking up Skittles, or a human-sized hamster wheel? What does a death row convict's art therapy look like? Who would sit at the head of your table: Greg Kinnear, a NASCAR, or Ron Swanson? Whose idea is the best? Who will win? Join us and see. And for God's sake... If you ever get your shoes shined, keep your eyes open, look straight ahead, and keep QUIET. Many thanks to our awesome sponsors, the Pawnee School of the Arts University (a.k.a. PSAU) and Dr. Harry's Podiatry.

S02E08 "Ron and Tammy" Feb 03, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the classic Episode that introduces us to Ron's ex-wife Tammy... actually his SECOND ex-wife Tammy (also known as "Tammy Two"). The gang learns that Ron's ex-wife Tammy, deputy director at Library Services, is gunning for Leslie's vacant lot to build a library, and she'll stop at nothing to get it - including manipulating Ron with sexual exploits too graphic to discuss. Meanwhile, Leslie gets Andy a job in Pioneer Hall as a shoe-shine man, giving him ample opportunity to try and win Ann back. As always, we tackle the tough questions others are afraid of, like... Is it better to be Eleanor Roosevelt or Cleopatra? Why does Tom suggest people take the high road? What is "the Ron Shuffle"? There's no telling what could happen here, folks... tune in and find out! Whatever you do, do NOT go to the library... those people aren't to be trusted. Don't make us say "I told you so". A tip of the hat to our wonderful sponsors, the Motel Glen Capri and the Pawnee Library.

Pawnee Spotlight: Mike Schur Jan 27, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen talk through facts, opinions, questions, answers, and a few audio clips as they look into why Michael Schur is so... freaking... awesome. We peel back the layers of the onion as we talk about his early days at Harvard, his time spent at SNL, shows he has connections to, such as The Office, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and The Good Place, why he is so liked by those that work with him, and more! We can speculate what the future holds for him, but one thing we know for certain... Michael Schur has had an undeniable impact on the world of sit-coms.

S02E07 "Greg Pikitis" Jan 20, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces us to not only Leslie's nemesis, the criminal mastermind Greg Pikitis (Cody Klop), but ALSO the great FBI legend Burt Macklin! Leslie tries to stop a high school punk who vandalizes the park every Halloween, and seems to be willing to go to extremes to get the job done... but will he get the last laugh? Meanwhile, Ann hosts a Halloween party that threatens to be a snoozefest... unless someone can save the day. We tackle the tough questions no one will touch, such as... How do you dress up as a straight man? How does one define the adjective "turdish"? How does Ron eat Almond Joys? Folks, this is almost too much goodness to cram into one show. But beware... the Pikitis calling card may be on your doorstep next! Thanks to our tremendous sponsors: Mighty Wipes and the Pawnee Mystery Closet.

S02E06 "Kaboom" Jan 13, 2021

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode finally addressing the pesky pit that's been with us from the beginning. Leslie and the gang volunteer to help the organization KaBOOM! build a playground for Eagleton (don't judge) in just one day! Frustrated at the lack of progress with the pit, Leslie takes advice from Mark to cut through the red tape. In the process she injures Andy, opening Pawnee up to a possible lawsuit. As usual, the tough questions are addressed, such as... What does a man-pillow look like? Do pigs purr? How many doing caps does Tom own? And, where are Andy's clothes....again? Look for special guest appearances by Bob Belcher... er... I mean Archer... er... I mean attorney Scott Braddock (played by H. Jon Benjamin) and Keef 'Kaboom' Slertner (played by Paul Scheer). Don't bother looking for April or Donna ... they are still vacationing with Jhonny. Many thanks to our amazing sponsors: Bucket of Cake and the City of Pawnee.

S02E05 "Sister City" Jan 06, 2021

In this week's podcast, Mark and Allen help you relive when Leslie and the gang welcome their counter parts from Pawnee's sister city to the south. Meet Raul, Elvis, and Antonio; but, ignore intern Jhonny - he's useless. Watch Tom swallow his pride in exchange for cash tips and see if April will marry lowly Intern Jhonny and run away to his small Estate in Venezuela. Tune in an hear how much more impressive Raul's title is than Leslie's and see if she will give Chavez a shout out in order to get enough money to finally fill in the Pit! You can expect all of this and more on this week's show - Viva LFP!

Happy New Year from Ron Swanson and Live from Pawnee! Dec 31, 2020

Join us for a special, motivating and heartfelt message from the man, the myth, the legend...Ron Freakin' Swanson himself! Recorded live in our studio (using a responsible social distance), this is a Live from Pawnee exclusive! It's exactly what the doctor ordered and will help you put out the dumpster fire that was 2020 and focus your positive vibes into a great 2021!

From all of us at Live from Pawnee and the LFP Worldwide Headquarters, we wish all of you, our viewers, a very Happy and Safe New Year!

Enjoy!

Special Mailbag Episode #2 Dec 29, 2020

This week, Mark and Allen serve up the snacks and the answers you've been looking for in yet another Mailbag Day Special Episode. The mail has been really piling up at LFP Worldwide Headquarters, so they have tried extra hard to unearth some gems. Assisted by unpaid intern Constantine, they peruse through the questions that are keeping you up at night. Or at least those you are curious about. Relationships? Improvisation? Tropes? D-Bag ranking? It's got all this and more. Be sure to turn your podcast dials accordingly and listen!

Happy Holidays from Ron Swanson and Live from Pawnee! Dec 24, 2020

Join us for a special Holiday (of your choice) message from the man, the myth, the legend...Ron Freakin' Swanson himself! Recorded live in our studio during yet another special (court ordered community service) visit, this is a Live from Pawnee exclusive!

From all of us at Live from Pawnee and the LFP Worldwide Headquarters, we wish all of you, our viewers, a very Happy and Safe Holiday Season!

Enjoy!

S02E04 "Practice Date" Dec 22, 2020

This week, Mark and Allen break down the Episode that introduces Councilman Bill Dexhart, Channel Four Eyewitness Newsperson Perd Hapley, anger peeing, sham marriages, and the legendary Duke Silver! Leslie is nervous about her first date with Officer Dave Sanderson (like, REALLY nervous), so best friend Ann tries to help her prepare by immersing her "in a tank of bad date"... but Leslie gets a bit TOO confident (and drunk), and... well, we don't want to spoil it. Also, the gang at City Hall plays a game to see who can dig up the juiciest dirt on the others - Ron has two ex-wives (and a mother) named Tammy, Tom has Taliban robes, Jerry finds out he is adopted ... and these aren't even the dirtiest secrets! So put your moral high ground aside and join in - Jerry Springer has nothing on this episode! Hats off to our fantastic sponsors, Travel Agency "Dank and Damp" (specializing in caves) and Cozy's Bar in Eagleton.

S02E03 "Beauty Pageant" Dec 15, 2020

This week Mark and Allen give the rundown on the Miss Pawnee Beauty Pageant and watch along as April competes against the likes of Trishes and Susans for the....Gift Certificates!?! Ann finally takes out the trash...well, she does that all the time...but, this time she discovers Andy living (and working) in the Pit! Officer Dave is back feeling confident and looking to take Leslie out for a cup of Coffee and hits the wall - Leslie's wall that is - when he shows his ignorance. Will April win the Beauty Pageant and defer the cost of a fence? Will Dave bone up on Powerful Women in Politics in time to regain Leslie's respect? Will Ann take Andy back in? JOIN US as we find out together this week as we cover the series' ninth episode! Thanks to our wonderful sponsors: The Pawnee Museum of History (and Medical Oddities) and JJ's Diner!

S02E02 "The Stakeout" Dec 08, 2020

This week, Mark and Allen break down the episode that introduces Officer Dave Sanderson from the Pawnee Police Department! (Well, his Mother calls him David.) Someone has planted marijuana in Leslie's community garden (in the pit), so she and Tom are going to have a stakeout to catch the "kingpin". Meanwhile, Ann is going out on a date with Mark, and Ron has an excruciatingly painful hernia. Now, you'd *think* these storylines wouldn't cross... and for Ron's hernia, you'd be right... but the other two do! Why does Ann make such good coffee? Is it possible to throw an entire value meal into your mouth? Do some candy necklaces come without strings? How do you best care for a batch of Souljaboy Tellems? Can whipped cream be used for therapy? Does Ron have syphilis? These and many other questions will be answered! So come on, join us. No seriously - join us. JOIN US. NOW. Step out of the van. (And no, not your momma's van.) Thanks to our wonderful sponsors: the Offerman Woodshop and the Pawnee Police Department.

Special Mailbag Episode #1 Dec 01, 2020

This week, Mark and Allen, assisted by the new surprise Intern, dive deep into the mountains of viewer email, snail mail, texts, DMs, voicemail transcriptions and WWII-era "Pigeon Posts" (for LFP eyes only!) to read some of YOUR questions! And, if that weren't enough (which it clearly is), they go one better and discuss their TOP Leslie Knope moments as part of a Season One recap! So, sharpen your Pencils and get out your official City of Pawnee branded notepad (so that you can play along at home) and join us for this special episode!

A Special Thanksgiving Message from Ron Swanson! Nov 26, 2020

Join us for a special Thanksgiving message from the man - Ron Freakin' Swanson himself! Recorded live in our studio during a special (court ordered community service) visit, this is a Live from Pawnee exclusive!

From all of us at Live from Pawnee and the LFP Worldwide Headquarters, we wish all of you, our viewers, a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving!

Enjoy!

--Mark and Allen

S02E01 - Pawnee Zoo Nov 24, 2020

In the season opener, Leslie has a penguin wedding as a cute zoo promotion, only later realizing both penguins are dudes. With everyone thinking Leslie is making a statement, political waves crash as she deals with Marcia Langman from the Society for Family Stability Foundation, Pawnee Today's Joan Callemezzo, and gay bar "The Bulge". Also, Andy returns! Will Ann get back together with him? Has Mark truly hit rock bottom? Can you climb mountains in Kansas? Is anything more troubling than rat parades? Why don't Pawnee garbagemen wear LiveStrong bracelets? Why is Ron familiar with "The Bulge"? What of this secret language Leslie and Ann are talking about? You've got questions, and we've got answers! Well, opinions, anyway. So get yourself all dolled up and join us - you might just turn someone before the night is over. But only if you have "ma-tured". (P-P-P-Poker Face....) Our sponsor streak continues with Kerston's Rubber Nipples and The Bulge.

S01E06 - Rock Show Nov 17, 2020

This week, Mark and Allen examine the EXTENDED PRODUCER'S CUT of the season finale to see which story lines are wrapped up, and which are left hanging. This episode is chock-full of talking points - so strap in and listen closely! This week the gang celebrates Andy getting his casts removed as his band puts on a concert, but lies are everywhere as Ann learns a nasty secret, Leslie deals with a political tete-a-tete, and Mark Brendanawicz hits on anything that moves. Meet Tom's hot surgeon wife, Ron's ex-wife's more attractive sister, and the other band members! Find out how to play "Dead or Asleep"! Is Scarecrow Boat better than the Everly Brothers? Are Leslie's boobs dead? Where is Ann's missing iPod? All this and more! Now... Sit still and open your mouth... You need to try some of this chicken. Much gratitude and respect to our fine sponsors, Paladino's Bar and Grill and the Pawnee Milk Association. How many Little Sebastians would YOU give an episode this full of goodness!?

S01E05 - The Banquet Nov 10, 2020

This week, Mark and Allen examine an Episode rife with scotch, fact-based speeches, and political intrigue. The gang attends a banquet honoring Leslie's mom as she receives the coveted Tellenson award, but when Leslie sees Queen of the Zoning Board Jeanine Restrepo, she is conflicted as to how she should proceed. Will Leslie resort to blackmail? What nickname did Ron invent for Marlene Griggs-Knope? Does Andy have a formal kilt? What the heck is "peacocking"? This and many other riveting questions will be answered! So come join us. After all, it's fun to pretend to be zoning board members. (Don't make us hold your nose.) Our sponsor streak continues this week with Salvatore's Barber Shop and Scully's Bar and Grill.

S01E04 - Boys' Club Nov 03, 2020

This week, Mark and Allen examine an Episode that flirts with underage drinking, political corruption, and other such nonsense. The team receives a gift basket, which Leslie does not let them open, but she gives in to temptation when she uses a gift basket to keep a casual get-together going, leading to internal ethical struggles afterwards. Also, Andy has a secret plan to surprise Ann while she works a double shift. Tune in to learn fun facts: What is Ron's idea of perfect government? What is the Darth Vader Syndrome? Can a couch be shaped like a mustache? Warning... there will be a test afterwards. Don't make us take you to the Disciplinary Committee. A nod to our great sponsors: Mighty Bites and the First Fourth Bank of Pawnee.

S01E03 - The Reporter Nov 03, 2020

This week, Mark and Allen pick through the Episode that introduces Shawna Malwae-Tweep! Leslie attempts to generate some good press for the pit by having a reporter from the Pawnee Journal interview her and the rest of the pit committee, but things quickly threaten to go awry. We look at several firsts and emerging tropes, as well as how they persist throughout the series. We also learn valuable lessons, such as how to have something "off the record", and how to be a skank in 3 easy steps (thank you Mark Brendanawicz). Special one-time guest spots by Smart Jerry and Dumb Leslie. Oh, and please do not eat the plants, even if they have a sweet aftertaste - you'll be acting like a huge dork. Thanks to our fine sponsors: JJ's Diner and the Pawnee Journal.

S01E02 - Canvassing Nov 03, 2020

This week, Mark and Allen breakdown this Episode that sees the pit project endangered as Leslie jumps the gun on an town open forum! See Tom Haverford schmooze contractors! (Hey, we all need a #1 sod man.) See Andy Dwyer lead the gang in Guitar Hero! Meet Leslie's mother, Marlene Griggs-Knope, as well as character nemeses Kate Spivak and bird lover Lawrence! See the very first Leslie Knope binder! How many Little Sebastians will this episode get? Who knows? We may be forced to filibuster our own podcast. (Don't make us plant April in the audience.) Many thanks to our sponsors: Don's Cement and the Pawnee Visitor's Bureau.

S01E01 - Pilot Nov 03, 2020

This week Mark and Allen breakdown the episode as we get our first glimpse of doofy but sweet protagonist Leslie Knope, anti-government libertarian Ron Swanson, kind but long suffering nurse Ann Perkins, and the rest of the Park & Rec gang as we enjoy the origin of the "Sullivan Street Pit Project". We go through our much-better-than-the-original-AKA's, standout moments, character introductions, deleted scenes, and final scoring. We'll do whatever it takes to make you enjoy this podcast - even if it takes as long as 2 months. We pinky promise. Just don't fall in the pit - we don't want your clavicle broken.

The Teaser Oct 24, 2020

Normally, we'd have really excellent Notes here which are, frankly, sometimes better than the podcast itself! But, alas, this is just the Teaser and the Episode Summary pretty much covers it. But just in case....

On this Teaser episode, Mark and Allen talk about what to expect on this podcast and talk with special guest Ron Swanson! That's right....Ron. Freaking. Swanson!

Listen to the Teaser and then join us as we drop the first 4 episodes on Election Day November 3, 2020. Trust us...it will be the best thing that happens that day!

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