The Dinner Party Download

Introducing: Not Lost May 04, 2022

Brendan Francis Newnam was the host of a popular radio show, coasting through a happy adulthood when it all came crashing down. And so, like many before him, he decided to hit the road, but not on his own. In Not Lost, Brendan and a friend travel to a new place every week, meeting the locals in hopes of understanding their homes. And angling for an invitation to dinner. As they veer from Montréal to Mexico City, from New Orleans to Bozeman, they discover it's possible to find yourself in places you've never been.

Not Lost is a co-production of Pushkin Industries, Topic Studios and iHeartMedia.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introducing Safe For Work Jul 16, 2018

Rico and Brendan aren’t exactly back, but they’re here to tell you about their new projects! Brendan has been producing The Paris Review and Rico has a new podcast called “Safe For Work.” Rico and Liz Dolan (“Satellite Sisters”) will help you make the big decisions, sort through the small stuff, and get more fulfillment […]

How to Behave: Celebrity Edition Dec 22, 2017

Alas, this is our last audio treat for you (for now). In the final installment of the “How to Behave” series, you’ll hear some of the best of our favorite etiquette segments with celebrities. Master thespian Sir Ian McKellen offers a tip on how to deal with people who mispronounce your name (never correct the […]

How to Behave: Comedy Edition Dec 15, 2017

We’ve got another audio treat for you! Think of these as a companion to Brendan and Rico’s book, “Brunch is Hell.” In the second installment of the “How to Behave” series, you’ll hear some of the best of our favorite etiquette segments with comedians. Our guests include “Portlandia” stars Carrie Brownstein and Fred Armisen, Maria […]

How to Behave: Food Edition Dec 08, 2017

Surprise! You might’ve thought we posted our last DPD episode, but we’ve got a few more audio goodies over the next couple of weeks, starting with this inaugural episode of what we’re calling our “How to Behave” series. Think of it as a companion to Brendan and Rico’s book, “Brunch is Hell.” These episodes will […]

400: The Last Supper – LIVE in Seattle! Dec 01, 2017

It’s our final new episode! Featuring new music from Northwest phenom Kyle Craft… A tale of howling at the moon from Snap Judgement’s Glynn Washington… Unimpeachable holiday gift ideas from New York Times columnist Lindy West… Maddening song suggestions from Luke Burbank of “LiveWire”… And a litany of good – and bad – goodbyes for […]

The 2017 All-Food Show Nov 24, 2017

This week, we re-heat some of our favorite food-related stories EVER: Celebrated chef Anthony Bourdain gets tough and tender in our etiquette segment… New York’s “The Pickle Guys” don their horseradish hazmat suits… Chef Eddie Huang makes us rethink mac and cheese … Beth Ditto serves up a party soundtrack– and great gravy… Brendan discovers […]

269: Mel Brooks, Greta Gerwig, and AC Newman Nov 17, 2017

Encore Broadcast: Comedy legend Mel Brooks reanimates “Young Frankenstein” then offers priceless etiquette advice (warning: may include death threats, flatulence, gallows humor, and uncontrollable laughter)… Actress Greta Gerwig (“Frances Ha” and “Mistress America”) tries a love story on for size… AC Newman of indie rock super-group The New Pornographers spins a party soundtrack that’s so cool, […]

The Thank You Show Nov 10, 2017

The title says it all, folks. Thanks for lending us your ears, ideas, laughs, taste buds, pun tolerance, and everything else! We’re blessed to have you attending our party every week, and so we figured it was high time for some audio “thank you” notes.

399: Tig Notaro, Jon Batiste, and Real American Food Nov 03, 2017

Tig Notaro brings her life to TV… The Late Show’s Jon Batiste makes a case for a surprise at every dinner party… Chef Sean Sherman re-imagines indigenous American cuisine… Director Yorgos Lathimos on his follow-up to “The Lobster”… and more!

398: Abbi Jacobson, Whitney Cummings, and More Wonder Women Oct 27, 2017

Actor Abbi Jacobson remembers her past recycling bottles for spare change… Comedian Whitney Cummings talks about being polite when you’re codependent… Drummer Patty Schemel makes a case for why drummers shouldn’t be the butt of the joke… The director of “Professor Marston and the Wonder Women”… The best baguette you’ll ever eat… and more!

Speakeasy Special: DPD News and Comic Relief with Whitney Cummings Oct 20, 2017

Thought you were getting an encore broadcast? Surprise! It’s actually an all-new Speakeasy! First: Lots of news in the DPD universe including a big announcement about the future of the show. Up next: an almost-unedited chat with comedian Whitney Cummings! She stopped by to answer a few etiquette questions and ended up teaching us about […]

397: Willem Dafoe, Depeche Mode, Carla Hall Shares Her Grandmother’s Cornbread Recipe Oct 13, 2017

Actor Willem Dafoe explains what he learns from screen newbies… Electro band Depeche Mode on how travel has made their music more socially conscious… A former Obama speechwriter convinces us that ferns are the most romantic plant… Chef Carla Hall shares her grandmother’s cast iron cornbread recipe… Rachel Bloom takes on your etiquette questions… and […]

Double Take: Joel Kim Booster Reflects on the Evolution of His Career… and His Pony Stylist Dreams Oct 11, 2017

(Heads up: This week’s episode features adult humor. It is not suitable for young listeners.) We’ve got something entirely new for you today… introducing “Double Take”! A new podcast-only goody where you’ll hear comedians dissecting their craft, and then, they’ll talk us through the evolution of a single joke: from its first, usually pretty awful […]

396: ‘Blade Runner 2049’ director Denis Villeneuve, Brendan and Tobin Low Take Manhattan Oct 06, 2017

While Rico’s away, Brendan plays hooky with special guest co-host Tobin Low, of WNYC’s Nancy (but don’t tell Rico!) Also: Filmmaker Denis Villeneuve worries about the pressure in making the sequel to “Blade Runner”… Comic Joel Kim Booster breaks down a bad joke and how he made it better… Etiquette experts Lizzie Post and Dan […]

395: Shania Twain, Sterling K. Brown, Cheese Tea Sep 29, 2017

Shania Twain explains how a vegetarian can survive a country bbq… Musician Emily Haines challenges you to pick difficult music for your dinner party… Erin McCann makes a case for the mosquito emoji… The filmmakers behind “Battle of the Sexes” reveal why there was 40-year-old underwear on the set of their film… Rico drink tea […]

Dinner For One: Sterling K. Brown (‘This Is Us’) Enjoys Crying as Much as You Do Sep 26, 2017

We’re back with a digital treat this week! It’s another installment of our almost-unedited “Dinner for One” series. This time around, Brendan chats with “This Is Us” actor and recent Emmy winner Sterling K. Brown about the hit NBC drama, why he found the opportunity to explore Randall’s relationship with his father “intoxicating,” his new […]

Speakeasy Special: Depeche Mode, Margaret Cho, Flying Lotus Sep 22, 2017

Folks! Instead of reheating an encore episode, we’ve carefully baked a brand-new Speakeasy soufflé for you! In this episode: Margaret Cho tells morbid tales of graveyards, murder, and (gasp!) Norman Mailer. Flying Lotus shares how getting into an *ahem* higher state of consciousness helped him direct “Kuso.” “Strong Island” filmmaker Yance Ford recommends a few […]

394: Margaret Cho, Michael McDonald, And We Cover Your Kvass Sep 15, 2017

Comedian Margaret Cho lets listeners know when it’s OK to ask Asian-Americans where they’re from (Hint: never)… “Strong Island” documentarian Yance Ford re-examines his brother’s murder – and his family’s search for justice – 25 years later… Yacht Rock royalty Michael McDonald gives a soundtrack that takes him back to his childhood… Brendan tastes a […]

393: Jesmyn Ward, Matt Berninger, and Future Islands’ Pet-Friendly Playlist Sep 08, 2017

Author Jesmyn Ward admits to some guilty pleasures… The threesome behind Future Islands DJs the ultimate “grill and chill” playlist – pets allowed… Director Theo Anthony remembers what it’s like to have Werner Herzog as your teacher… The National’s Matt Berninger explains the perks of being a rock star *and* a dad… Librarian Annie Spence […]

392: Lake Bell, Ted Leo, and Not Dumplings Sep 01, 2017

Actor-director Lake Bell turns her lens on marriage — the good, the bad, and the ugly… Author Jenny Zhang suggests a few super “sour” bites of culture… Punk Rocker Ted Leo brings us tunes that’ll make you dance and think… The Posts demonstrate how NOT to tick off your college roommate… And Brendan tries Kubeh […]

The Dinner Party Sandbox Series: Below-the-Line TV Special Aug 25, 2017

Just in time for the Emmys, it’s a special episode all about TV’s unsung, behind-the-scenes heroes! The costume whiz behind “The Handmaid’s Tale” reflects on fashioning the series’ iconic headpieces — and fueling real-world protests… the music supervisor of “Insecure” explains how he secures the show’s pitch-perfect hip-hop and R&B soundtrack… A casting director for REALITY television […]

The Dinner Party Sandbox Series: Listener Letters Aug 18, 2017

We know you’ve been thinking, “What’s with all the reruns, DPD?” Well, a few of us have been taking a little time off this summer to recharge our batteries. Rest assured we’re hard at work on all-new classic DPD episodes we’ll be dropping on you in September. But, over the next few weeks, we’re bringing […]

384: Kathryn Hahn, Tituss Burgess, Mac DeMarco Aug 11, 2017

Encore Broadcast: The irrepressible Tituss Burgess from “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” doles out etiquette advice and plays matchmaker… “I Love Dick” actor Kathryn Hahn pokes fun at the high-art world… Indie musician Mac DeMarco DJ’s his Italian family dinner… A visit to a vegan butcher… Wisdom from New York Times bestselling author Anne Lamott. Plus, a […]

391: The 2017 All-Icebreaker Episode Aug 04, 2017

It’s time for a cavalcade of icebreaker jokes! We’ve gathered a year’s worth of our show-starting jokes into one convenient listening experience. Brace yourselves for awesomely lame one-liners, knock-knock jokes, and more, courtesy of guests like Jordan Peele, Gillian Jacobs, Ava DuVernay, Danny Boyle, Rachel Bloom, Jane Lynch, Barry Jenkins, Norm Macdonald, and Tituss Burgess. […]

374: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ottessa Moshfegh, Beer Porridge Jul 28, 2017

Lin-Manuel Miranda talks about his latest work in “Moana,” and reveals how a cross country trip helped him perfect his freestyle rapping… “Nerdette” co-host Greta Johnsen proves why Virginia is NOT for lovers… Rapper Kevin Abstract gives us a dinner party soundtrack for time travelers… Writer Ottessa Moshfegh shares her favorite characters nostalgic for other […]

390: Flying Lotus, Kyle Mooney, Teju Cole, And a Chill Playlist to Beat the Heat Jul 21, 2017

“Saturday Night Live” cast member Kyle Mooney takes on some first world problems… Writer and photographer Teju Cole explains how he tried to be gangsta in his new book… Flying Lotus chats with us about his nightmarish film ‘Kuso’ and why you shouldn’t believe everything you read about it… New York Times Editor Erin McCann […]

389: Alan Alda, Mitski, and a $12 Million Card Trick Jul 14, 2017

Alan Alda offers up etiquette advice (including when it’s OK to punch someone)… comedy duo the Lucas Brothers show us how to cheat at driver’s tests… rocker Mitski provides a party playlist for people who don’t party… Jody Avirgan and Rose Eveleth of ESPN’s “30 For 30” tell a tale of a $12 million card […]

Speakeasy Special: Vinyls, Tyson(s) and Bears! Jul 07, 2017

Surprise! Instead of serving up delicious leftovers (i.e. a rerun), we’ve got a fresh-out-of-the-oven Speakeasy special! This time around, Neil deGrasse Tyson explains why Albert Einstein could not have used hairspray, “I Love Dick” and “Transparent” star Kathryn Hahn shares a story you should NEVER tell at a dinner party, and Rico pays tribute to […]

388: Alison Brie GLOWs, Samin Nosrat on acid, & more Jun 30, 2017

How Alison Brie body-slammed her way to a role in “GLOW”… Cook and author Samin Nosrat explains why Iranians are the best hosts ever… Beth Ditto serves up a party soundtrack — and great gravy… Giancarlo Esposito (“Better Call Saul”) gives us the silent treatment… a detailed discussion on Piet Mondrian (the guy who painted […]

Look Up and Listen! Jun 23, 2017

Neil deGrasse Tyson, Feist, Fleet Foxes, a talking wolf named Nick Offerman, and more join us on an audio odyssey designed to reacquaint you with the wonders of nature! Hosts Brendan and Rico — two city slickers — stumble their way through the great outdoors (and outer space!), gleaning wisdom from unexpected sources. This hour […]

Dinner for One: Giancarlo Esposito, Master Character Actor… and One-Time Aspiring Reiki Master Jun 16, 2017

This week, instead of a rerun, we’re serving up a Dinner for One special with one of the most celebrated character actors ever — Giancarlo Esposito. Known for roles in “Breaking Bad,” “Better Call Saul,” “Do the Right Thing,” “The Get Down,” and more, Rico talks to Giancarlo about his carefully crafted acting method and […]

346: Saoirse Ronan, Cameron Diaz, Solomon Georgio Jun 09, 2017

Encore Broadcast: Oscar-nominee Saoirse Ronan sharpens her skills in Broadway’s Crucible… Actor-and-author Cameron Diaz gives us impeccable advice — for the long haul… A new doc paints a portrait of David Hockney, an artist both bright and blue… One-man-band Kevin Morby recommends a few other artists (and BBQ masters) who went solo… Comedian-on-the-rise Solomon Georgio recalls […]

386: Damon Lindelof, Phoenix, Farewell to Frank Deford Jun 02, 2017

Showrunner supreme Damon Lindelof (“Lost,” “The Leftovers”) hops into Rico’s hot tub time machine, then considers the paradoxes of fandom… The band Phoenix toasts a purring Bryan Ferry, video games in Japan, and the sounds of le cinema… We pay tribute to late great sportswriter Frank DeFord, who throws us some etiquette curveballs… Musician Lynn […]

Dinner for One: Damon Lindelof, Creator of ‘Lost’ and ‘The Leftovers,’ Goes Hot Tubbing With Rico May 30, 2017

We’re back with another digital delight! It’s another installment of our almost-unedited “Dinner for One” series. For this mini-episode, Rico chats with former co-worker Damon Lindelof. Yes, it’s true! Listen as he and Damon reminisce about their days working together on MTV’s “Undressed” as writers (of many hot tub scenes). Damon also reflects on how […]

385: Paul Feig, Samantha Irby, Danger Mouse & Sam Cohen May 26, 2017

Director Paul Feig tracks your laughs, fights T-shirt tyranny… Producer duo Danger Mouse and Sam Cohen say Vive la “Resistance” (and French party music)… Writer Samantha Irby (of the B**ches Gotta Eat blog) fakes her way into pregnant yoga… Burlesque meets baseball (meets cocktail!)… And the Posts lead us into the ‘gaping maw’ of yawning […]

Dinner for One: Paul Feig, Champion of Female Friendships… And Walking Sticks May 24, 2017

We’re serving up something different today! It’s the second installment of our new “Dinner for One” series — a single, almost-unedited conversation with a luminary in arts and entertainment. This time around, Brendan talks with writer, director, and producer extraordinaire Paul Feig. Listen as the two examine how “Bridesmaids” led to more creative freedom when […]

384: Kathryn Hahn, Tituss Burgess, Mac DeMarco May 19, 2017

The irrepressible Tituss Burgess from “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” doles out etiquette advice and plays matchmaker… “I Love Dick” actor Kathryn Hahn pokes fun at the high-art world… Indie musician Mac DeMarco DJ’s his Italian family dinner… A visit to a vegan butcher… Wisdom from New York Times bestselling author Anne Lamott. Plus, a cocktail tribute […]

Speakeasy Special: Charlamagne Tha God, Aimee Mann, Thomas Middleditch May 16, 2017

Surprise! It’s an all-new Speakeasy Special — a bonus mid-week treat filled with unheard bits and bobs from our interviews. Listen as “Silicon Valley” star Thomas Middleditch flexes his improv muscle and invents an entire fictional food chain (with a signature drink!) in less than 60 seconds. Then, get a mint condition etiquette answer from […]

320: Peter Capaldi, Paul Scheer, Shamir May 12, 2017

Encore Broadcast: Peter Capaldi — star of the beloved sci-fi series “Dr. Who” — brings etiquette advice via TARDIS… Funnyman Paul Scheer revels in terrible movies, pseudo-reality… Filmmaker Alexandra Pelosi explores how the tech boom and gentrification have remade San Francisco, her hometown… Dance-pop star Shamir works it, while working retail, and whips up a […]

383: The 2017 All-Music Episode May 05, 2017

We’re putting on our own music festival with a special “ALL-MUSIC EPISODE”! You’ll hear sets from our favorite artists: Run the Jewels, Alice Cooper, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Punk legend Viv Albertine, Perfume Genius, folk musician Joan Shelley, Tony Bennett, and more. Plus Kristen Bell singing the praises of her favorite Disney movie (no, it’s not “Frozen”), […]

382: Charlamagne tha God, John Ridley, Feist Apr 28, 2017

Radio kingpin Charlamagne tha God explains the concept behind his new book, “Black Privilege,” and reminds us manners will take you where money won’t… Oscar-winning screenwriter and director John Ridley looks back at the L.A. riots 25 years later… Rico takes a trip to Lawry’s to check in on the Prime Rib renaissance… and we […]

381: Thomas Middleditch, Justin Simien, Cold War Kids Apr 21, 2017

“Silicon Valley” star Thomas Middleditch gets silly and waxes poetic on his days as a Dungeons & Dragons wizard… “Dear White People” creator Justin Simien tells us how to deal with a Northerner who says y’all… Two-fifths of Cold War Kids mix a sentimental playlist… and author Elena Passarello introduces us to Mozart’s favorite pet. […]

Speakeasy Special: Sasheer Zamata of ‘SNL,’ Danny Boyle, Gillian Jacobs Apr 18, 2017

Give Tuesday a fun boost with this Speakeasy Special! This episode covers it all: Nerds, Steve Inskeep jokes, pizza crust etiquette… need we say more? First up, you’ll get a previously unaired slice from our interview with Gillian Jacobs. Then, hear a full dose of etiquette from our South by Southwest show with “Saturday Night […]

Episode 350: Rashida Jones, Yo-Yo Ma, Tegan and Sara Apr 14, 2017

Encore Broadcast: Multi-hyphenate Rashida Jones — one of the forces behind TV’s police farce “Angie Tribeca”– comes bearing wisdom for ‘overdogs’… Cello maestro Yo-Yo Ma gets existential… Pop sensations Tegan and Sara craft a party playlist that’s frank — and French… The man and myth behind the doughnut, as we know it… Photographing your dinner makes […]

380: Aimee Mann, Hank Azaria, Jason Jones Apr 07, 2017

Hank Azaria (“Brockmire”) talks about baseball in at least five different voices… Aimee Mann disses tattoo copycats, sings about actual cats … “Daily Show” expat Jason Jones — now starring in “The Detour” — relives the terrors of moving to New York City … Molly Wood unveils the latest scholarship at the University of Utah […]

379: Katie Couric, Prentice Penny, Jens Lekman (w/ guest host Lauren Ober) Mar 31, 2017

Journalist Katie Couric is not flattered by her nickname of “America’s Sweetheart”… HBO’s “Insecure” showrunner Prentice Penny gives some “Upscale” advice… Swedish troubadour Jens Lekman throws a dance party in the Middle East… the creators of the hit Broadway musical “Come From Away” list some musicals based on real events. Plus, a divorce hotel, a […]

378: Danny Boyle, RuPaul, Alan Tudyk Mar 24, 2017

The one and only RuPaul gives some “godly” etiquette advice… filmmaker Danny Boyle reflects back on his cult film “Trainspotting” and why he decided to make a sequel more than 20 years later… Actor Alan Tudyk picks a list of his favorite robots… And sommelier protocol with the New York Times wine critic Eric Asimov. […]

SXSW Speakeasy Special: RuPaul, Rachel Bloom, Adrianne Lenker Mar 17, 2017

(Heads up: This week’s episode features some *ahem* adult humor. It may not be suitable for young listeners.) Folks! It’s an all-new Speakeasy Special. This time, Rico and Brendan bring updates direct from the South by Southwest festival in Austin, TX about great new bands and oddball food finds (Heavy metal pizza? Check.) You’ll also […]

377: Gillian Jacobs, Sam Richardson, Jay Som Mar 10, 2017

Actor Gillian Jacobs shares her “Love” for her Netflix show and public radio… Comedian Sam Richardson finds a friend — and his mojo — at the edge of the world… Jay Som DJs a Halloween party (springtime be damned)… And Emily Post’s scions bring tips on hotel tips. Plus, decrypting the Rorschach test, Norway’s answer […]

376: Pete Holmes, Jordan Peele, Valerie June Mar 03, 2017

Comedian Jordan Peele’s hit horror film “Get Out” is a deadly serious exploration of racism…Pete Holmes used his divorce as inspiration for his new HBO comedy, “Crashing”…Nashville singer Valerie June throws a party at Elvis’ house…Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Viet Thanh Nguyen tackles issues of race, immigration, and identity…Plus, how the film, “Nosferatu,” almost burned to […]

Dinner for One: Jordan Peele Reflects on the Real Horrors at the Heart of ‘Get Out’ Feb 24, 2017

This week, something a little different! We’re giving you the first in an all-new series we’re calling “Dinner for One” — essentially, a single, almost unedited conversation with someone amazing. This time, comedy — and now horror — genius Jordan Peele chats with Rico about “Get Out,” the new film he wrote and directed. The […]

375: Damien Chazelle, George Saunders, Rhiannon Giddens, Menu Mysteries Feb 17, 2017

Director Damien Chazelle on his record-tying 14 Oscar nominations, and why he’s attracted to art forms on their way to extinction… A New York Times editor reveals the elaborate accommodations for canine competitors at the Westminster Dog Show… Author George Saunders dishes out advice and reveals his *real* first novel… Musician Rhiannon Giddens picks a […]

374: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ottessa Moshfegh, Beer Porridge Feb 10, 2017

Lin-Manuel Miranda talks about his latest work in “Moana,” and reveals how a cross country trip helped him perfect his freestyle rapping… “Nerdette” co-host Greta Johnsen proves why Virginia is NOT for lovers… Rapper Kevin Abstract gives us a dinner party soundtrack for time travelers… Writer Ottessa Moshfegh shares her favorite characters nostalgic for other […]

373: Rachel Bloom, Steve Aoki, James Baldwin in His Own Words Feb 03, 2017

“Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” star Rachel Bloom schools us in online stalking and making contemporary musicals… DJ Steve Aoki marries hardcore music with rap… “Marketplace” host Kai Ryssdal makes us all smarter… Oscar-nominated director Raoul Peck pays tribute to the late, great James Baldwin in his new documentary… Comedians John Early and Kate Berlant recommend three classic […]

Speakeasy Special: Ava DuVernay, Barry Jenkins, Steve Jones Jan 31, 2017

Holy Tuesday, it’s an all-new episode of our off-the-cuff Speakeasy podcast. This time, Brendan and Rico are in the studio together — a rare event! In this special, you’ll hear an icebreaker from the Academy Award-nominated director Ava DuVernay that didn’t make it to air. Also, “Moonlight” director Barry Jenkins — who is up for […]

358: America Ferrera, Norm Macdonald, Dinosaur Jr. Jan 27, 2017

Encore Broadcast: “Ugly Betty” and “Superstore” star America Ferrera explains the “super” part of superstores… Comedian Norm Macdonald gives us etiquette advice and reveals why his new memoir, “Based on a True Story,” is full of lies… Childstar-turned-writer Mara Wilson confronts the hereafter… Noise rock pioneer Lou Barlow celebrates soft rock with a soundtrack for […]

372: Brit Marling, Cristela Alonzo, Aravind Adiga Jan 20, 2017

We talk life, (near-)death, and tree-climbing with “The OA” creator and star Brit Marling, then learn how she broke her nose making it… Comedian Cristela Alonzo gives us some “Lower Classy” advice… Booker Prize-winning novelist Aravind Adiga teaches us a thing or two about the sport of cricket… A medical breakthrough inspires a healthy tipple…And […]

371: Ava DuVernay, Steve Jones, Pancake Cheesesteak Jan 13, 2017

Ava DuVernay unpacks the issues at play in her searing documentary, “13th,” then reveals the cheeseball ’80s movie that’s her true fave… Legendary Sex Pistol Steve Jones tells you when it’s OK to steal from your opening act… Indie band Whitney gives a retro playlist that’ll raise the roof… Comedian Baron Vaughn meets a turn-of-phrase… […]

370: Mike Mills, Weyes Blood, the Crazy Cat Behind ‘Krazy Kat’ Jan 06, 2017

Filmmaker Mike Mills celebrates his mom and other “20th Century Women”… Multi-instrumentalist Natalie Mering a.k.a. Weyes Blood takes us to the opera (inside her tiny apartment)… The Posts bring etiquette gifts that never expire…We learn about the secret that brilliant cartoonist George Herriman (“Krazy Kat”) kept ’til his death… Rico samples guarapo, Cuba’s signature street […]

Best of 2016: Saoirse Ronan, Guillermo del Toro, Jamila Woods Dec 30, 2016

We look back at our favorite moments of 2016! Filmmaker Guillermo del Toro professes his love for insects and imperfections… Actor Saoirse Ronan pronounces Brendan’s name correctly… Mya Taylor (star of “Tangerine” and winner of DPD’s “NOTscar”) finds home on the range … We toast the high-flying, history-making exploits of Bessie Coleman, the first black […]

The 2016 Holiday Special: Zooey Deschanel & M. Ward, Alton Brown, Nick Offerman Dec 22, 2016

Zooey Deschanel and M Ward of the band She & Him suggest some holiday music deep cuts, for the sun and the snow… Alton Brown waxes poetic about eggnog, before serving up etiquette advice… “Parks and Rec” alum Nick Offerman breaks down his Oscar-worthy YuleLog video (that’s just him sipping whiskey for 45 minutes)… Vanity […]

367: Barry Jenkins, Gael Garcia Bernal, Lucy Dacus Dec 16, 2016

Filmmaker Barry Jenkins finds magic in “Moonlight”…Actor Gael Garcia Bernal waxes poetic about art and “Neruda”…U.K. wit Caitlin Moran proposes steam baths for politicians and onesies FOR ALL… Folk phenom Lucy Dacus spins us a soundtrack built for living rooms and river beds. Plus: Jedi poetry, “Surfy Christmas,” and tiny Jane Austens.

Speakeasy Special: Anthony Bourdain, Jamila Woods, Rick Astley Dec 13, 2016

Ta-da! It’s an all-new episode of our impromptu Speakeasy podcasts. This time, Rico and Brendan reflect on their recent trip to Cuba (be sure to check out photos here). Plus, you’ll hear a few bonus pieces of audio not included in full episodes! Rick Astley tells us how his daughter helped him cope with becoming […]

DPD Holiday Special Special: Darryl ‘DMC’ McDaniels, Fran Lebowitz, Macklemore Dec 09, 2016

It’s one of our favorite (holiday) episodes: Hip-hop legend Darryl “DMC” McDaniels riffs on his mega-hit “Christmas in Hollis”… TV’s “Naked Chef” Jamie Oliver injects some health into our holiday menu (okay, some butter remains)… Humorist Fran Lebowitz cuts through holiday sap with tart advice… Macklemore & Ryan Lewis craft a Yuletide playlist, featuring your […]

366: Anthony Bourdain, Mackenzie Davis, Kurt Wagner Dec 02, 2016

Celebrated chef Anthony Bourdain gets tough and tender in our etiquette segment… Breakout actor Mackenzie Davis (TV’s “Halt and Catch Fire,” the new film “Always Shine”) opts for reality over (manic pixie) dreams… Kurt Wagner, frontman of Nashville band Lambchop, turns back the clock with his party soundtrack…Iconic silver screen rebel Toshiro Mifune gets a […]

The 2016 All-Food Show Nov 25, 2016

It’s a week of feasting, which means it’s time for our special All-Food Show! Star chef Roy Choi reinvents fast food, in the heart of Watts… Comedian Jim Gaffigan advises you to pack your kids’ lunch with pub fare… Nahnatchka Khan, showrunner for TV’s “Fresh Off the Boat,” thanks her Dad for drive-thru laughs…Marlon Brando […]

Episode 354: Kristen Bell, Sharon Jones, Junius Meyvant Nov 18, 2016

Encore Broadcast: We revisit our conversation with the late great soul singer Sharon Jones… “Bad Moms” star Kristen Bell entertains our emoji etiquette questions… Comedian Josh Gondelman celebrates his Sublime relationship… Icelandic musician Junius Meyvant DJs your dinner party… Author Charles Russo teaches us about Bruce Lee’s early days… Plus, the robots that wrote the world’s […]

364: Davy Rothbart, Annabelle Gurwitch, Gustavo Arellano, Demi Adejuyigbe Nov 11, 2016

This week, it’s a special podcast episode taped LIVE at the Now Hear This podcast festival! Davy Rothbart, host of the acclaimed “Found” podcast, tells us about heart-warming root canals… “Gilmore Guys” co-host Demi Adejuyigbe tries to convert Brendan and Rico into, well, “Gilmore Guys”… The OC Weekly’s Gustavo Arellano pushes buttons left and right… […]

363: Nick Offerman, Emily Witt, Rick Astley Nov 04, 2016

“Parks and Rec” alum Nick Offerman carves out his own niche, solves problems with bear hugs… Singer and godfather-of-memes Rick Astley lists some alternatives to his beloved “Rick-roll”… Journalist Emily Witt ponders sex and love in the 21st century… And “Daily Show” correspondent Hasan Minhaj makes a lofty proposal! Plus: drooling drummers, a cold war […]

362: The 2016 All-Book Episode Oct 28, 2016

It’s a very special all-book show! Featuring etiquette tips from “Eat, Pray, Love” author Elizabeth Gilbert… A lesson on tribal society with “The Perfect Storm” writer Sebastian Junger… Man Booker prize recipient Marlon James confronts his bullies in drag… Israeli novelist Etgar Keret welcomes a newborn amidst a terrorist attack… Illustrator Molly Crabapple talks about […]

349: Barney Frank, Anna Chlumsky, Hailu Mergia Oct 21, 2016

Encore Broadcast: This week, it’s a special edition of the DPD, taped in front of a D.C.-area crowd! Think of it as a political party: Former congressman Barney Frank pines for pragmatism and left-(handed) progress… Anna Chlumsky of HBO’s “VEEP” swears she can leave her character’s quirks on-set… Local keyboard legend Hailu Mergia, once a […]

361: Kelly Reichardt, Kevin Hart, Chris Thile Oct 14, 2016

Critically-acclaimed director Kelly Reichardt chats about her new film “Certain Women”… The hilarious Kevin Hart brings his kids to work… Grammy-winner and newly-minted “Prairie Home Companion” host Chris Thile spins us a soundtrack… Comedian Kyle Kinane unwinds with some conspiracy theories… Etiquette experts the Posts help us deal with unskilled Uber drivers… Plus: Growing food […]

360: Rebecca Hall, Jane Lynch, How To Dress Well Oct 07, 2016

Actor Rebecca Hall – star of the new film “Christine” – demonstrates her range (from Shakespeare to Bjork!)… The always gleeful Jane Lynch brings an alter ego to therapy and gives us etiquette advice… Electro-pop maestro Tom Krell, a.k.a. How to Dress Well, DJs your dinner party … Novelist Jade Chang shares a riches-to-rags story […]

359: Seth Meyers, Maureen Dowd, Eric Andre, Phoebe Robinson Sep 30, 2016

Seth Meyers dishes about working his “Late Night” gig (and not about “Saturday Night Live!”)… Pretend talk show host Eric Andre lists his favorite train wreck interviews… Comedian Phoebe Robinson teaches us how to avoid being the black friend… New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd gives us etiquette advice and describes what happens when Donald […]

Debate Party Download “InstaPod!” Feat. Maureen Dowd Sep 26, 2016

Surprise! It’s our first-ever extra-special-InstaPod! Normally, we help you win your dinner parties, but today we’re going to help you win your DEBATE party. We chatted with New York Times Op-Ed columnist Maureen Dowd for “etiquette” (tune in for her full chat on Friday), but we couldn’t resist also asking her about her thoughts on […]

Episode 343: The ALL-TV Episode Sep 23, 2016

Encore Broadcast: It’s a special “ALL-TV” Episode, featuring big talent from the small screen! Ellie Kemper of “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” smiles into the void… T.J. Miller (“Silicon Valley”) recommends wedding gifts for the budget-minded (just make sure you have your tetanus shot)… “Orange is the New Black” star Uzo Aduba invites Shakespeare to the slammer… […]

Episode 358: America Ferrera, Norm Macdonald, Dinosaur Jr. Sep 16, 2016

“Ugly Betty” and “Superstore” star America Ferrera explains the “super” part of superstores… Comedian Norm Macdonald gives us etiquette advice and reveals why his new memoir, “Based on a True Story,” is full of lies… Childstar-turned-writer Mara Wilson confronts the hereafter… Noise rock pioneer Lou Barlow celebrates soft rock with a soundtrack for your dinner […]

Episode 357: Guillermo del Toro, Dave Barry, Jamila Woods Sep 09, 2016

Visionary filmmaker Guillermo del Toro (“Pan’s Labyrinth”) celebrates bugs, monsters, and his FX Series “The Strain”… Comedian Dave Barry gives us etiquette advice and defends Florida… Actor Nicole Byer gets racially profiled by a child she babysits… Author Mark Greif lays out his case against exercise (and everything else)… rising R&B star Jamila Woods DJs your […]

Episode 356: Craig Robinson, Angel Olsen, and Sake Karaoke Sep 02, 2016

Actor Craig Robinson (“The Office”) shows off his dramatic chops (and his German) in “Morris from America”… Phoebe Waller-Bridge– star of Amazon’s buzzy new series “Fleabag”– pulls off the ultimate stage prank… Rocker Angel Olsen reflects on lost cities, found lovers, and songs worth preaching about… And Sir Arthur Conan Doyle assists in solving a […]

Episode 347: Colin Farrell, Maria Bamford, Frankie Cosmos Aug 26, 2016

Encore Broadcast: Movie star Colin Farrell considers his new film, “The Lobster”… Comedian Maria Bamford channels her mother (and her mother’s hairdresser) to give us etiquette advice… Writer and activist Lindy West stands up for Kermit the Frog… Musician Frankie Cosmos DJs your dinner/pajama party (no boys allowed!)… Writer and rocker John Doe regales us with […]

Episode 355: The 2016 All-Icebreaker Episode Aug 19, 2016

It’s time for our All-Icebreaker extravaganza! We’ve compiled a year’s worth of our show-starting jokes into one convenient package. Get your eyes ready to roll with these awesomely bad tiny tales of stuff walking into bars, bad trips to the doctor, and more, courtesy of guests like Ian McKellen, Cameron Diaz, Alice Cooper, Saoirse Ronan, […]

Episode 326: Allison Janney, Norman Lear, John Mulaney Aug 12, 2016

Encore Broadcast: Allison Janney, star of the CBS sitcom “Mom,” on the humor in life’s heavy stuff… Alan Palomo, better known as Neon Indian, DJs your bomb shelter dinner party (but you’ll have to bring your own food)… Bon Appetit’s Adam Rapoport on how to pre-game for a food coma… The veteran producer behind “The Jeffersons” […]

Speakeasy Special: Food Fight with Jim Gaffigan, ‘The Sporkful,’ and ‘Nerdette’ Aug 09, 2016

Surprise! It’s an all-new edition of our off-the-cuff Speakeasy podcast! This time, you’ll hear a special treat from “The Sporkful”‘s live event at Taste of Chicago: Brendan and Rico square off against Tricia Bobeda and Greta Johnsen, hosts of the “Nerdette” podcast, in a version of the newlywed game. Find out how well the guys […]

Episode 342: Nicholas Hoult, Tatiana Maslany, Duncan Sheik Aug 05, 2016

Encore Broadcast: “Orphan Black” star Tatiana Maslany plays clones, twins, and Ying Yang Twins… Nicholas Hoult (“Mad Max: Fury Road,” the new “Kill Your Friends”) revels in a bit of depravity — and a good fanny pack… “American Psycho” gets the Broadway treatment, from Tony winner Duncan Sheik… A portrait of Georgia O’Keefe as a […]

Episode 354: Kristen Bell, Sharon Jones, Junius Meyvant Jul 29, 2016

Soul singer Sharon Jones shares her digits… “Bad Moms” star Kristen Bell entertains our emoji etiquette questions… Comedian Josh Gondelman celebrates his Sublime relationship… Icelandic musician Junius Meyvant DJs your dinner party… Author Charles Russo teaches us about Bruce Lee’s early days… Plus, the robots that wrote the world’s scariest movie, the most popular fake […]

Episode 353: Jim Gaffigan, Emma Cline, Anna Meredith Jul 22, 2016

Comedian Jim Gaffigan advises you to pack your kids’ lunch with pub fare… Novelist Emma Cline discusses the cult of her hit first novel… acclaimed Scottish composer Anna Meredith DJs your next dinner party/obstacle course… Writer Nicole Dennis-Benn finds trouble in paradise… Biographer Darryl W. Bullock sings the praises of the world’s worst opera singer… […]

Episode 352: Shiri Appleby, Jessi Klein, Wyatt Cenac Jul 15, 2016

Actor Shiri Appleby, of the Peabody award-winning TV show “UnREAL,” directs herself playing the part of a producer (don’t worry, we’re confused too!)… Jessi Klein, Executive Producer of “Inside Amy Schumer,” discusses HER feminine ideals versus THE feminine ideal… Comedian Wyatt Cenac tells us what NOT to say to a mall cop… The man behind […]

Episode 339: Viola Davis, Alan Cumming, Dave Navarro Jul 08, 2016

Encore Broadcast: Actor Viola Davis — star of the ABC hit show “How to Get Away with Murder” — waxes poetic on the wonders of Vaseline… Broadway star Alan Cumming gives us an etiquette lesson and reminds us that he is NOT a performing poodle… Jane’s Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro navigates the darkest moment of […]

Episode 351: Anna Kendrick, D.A. Pennebaker, Fantastic Negrito Jul 01, 2016

“Pitch Perfect” star Anna Kendrick answers your etiquette questions (and threatens to eat your family)… Documentary filmmaker D.A. Pennebaker celebrates both sides of Bob Dylan… Comedian Aparna Nancherla explains how she embodies science… Musician Fantastic Negrito DJs your dinner party… Plus, we meet the lovechild of Japanese pancakes and tiny hamburgers, learn the history of […]

Episode 350: Rashida Jones, Yo-Yo Ma, Tegan and Sara Jun 24, 2016

Multi-hyphenate Rashida Jones — one of the forces behind TV’s police farce “Angie Tribeca”– comes bearing wisdom for ‘overdogs’… Cello maestro Yo-Yo Ma gets existential… Pop sensations Tegan and Sara craft a party playlist that’s frank — and French… The man and myth behind the donut, as we know it… Photographing your dinner makes you […]

Speakeasy Special: Sam Heughan, Dick Cavett, Saoirse Ronan, Opus Moreschi Jun 22, 2016

It’s an all-new episode of our off-the-cuff Speakeasy podcast! “Outlander” star Sam Heughan has a failsafe way to look buff (hint: tiny clothing)… Dick Cavett reveals his hidden talent and has a little fun at Spiro Agnew’s expense… Opus Moreschi, head writer of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” gets crafty with cocktails during our […]

Episode 349: Barney Frank, Anna Chlumsky, Hailu Mergia Jun 17, 2016

This week, it’s a special edition of the DPD, taped in front of a D.C.-area crowd! Think of it as a political party: Former congressman Barney Frank pines for pragmatism and left-(handed) progress… Anna Chlumsky of HBO’s “VEEP” swears she can leave her character’s quirks on-set… Local keyboard legend Hailu Mergia, once a part of […]

Episode 307: Alison Bechdel, Chuck Palahniuk, Colleen Jun 10, 2016

Encore Broadcast: Alison Bechdel — whose graphic memoir “Fun Home” is now a 12-time Tony-nominated musical — tells us how she gets comfy, with her life on stage… “Fight Club” author Chuck Palahniuk schools us in prank-ology, to celebrate his new sequel… The Posts tackle some especially hairy etiquette hang-ups… We tune into an avant-garde-tinged […]

Episode 328: Ian McKellen, Cindy Crawford, Wine Crime Jun 03, 2016

Encore Broadcast: Master thespian Sir Ian McKellen with etiquette advice and real talk about his least favorite co-stars… supermodel Cindy Crawford recalls her photo shoot with a 40-pound python… Investigative journalist Christine Haughney on why in wine, there’s not always truth… Will Toledo — of lo-fi indie rock band Car Seat Headrest — DJs your […]

Episode 348: Sam Heughan, Sebastian Junger, Moshe Kasher and Natasha Leggero May 27, 2016

“Outlander” star Sam Heughan drops by to deliver some hair care tips before answering a few of our listeners’ etiquette questions… Filmmaker and journalist Sebastian Junger tells us why some prefer wartime to peacetime… Comedians/spouses Moshe Kasher and Natasha Leggero list a few road trips gone wrong… Brendan visits a cheese cave… Actor and writer Faith Salie […]

Episode 347: Colin Farrell, Maria Bamford, Frankie Cosmos May 20, 2016

Movie star Colin Farrell considers his new film, “The Lobster”… Comedian Maria Bamford channels her mother (and her mother’s hairdresser) to give us etiquette advice… Writer and activist Lindy West stands up for Kermit the Frog… Musician Frankie Cosmos DJs your dinner/pajama party (no boys allowed!)… Writer and rocker John Doe regales us with stories of […]

Speakeasy Special: Ellie Kemper, Cameron Esposito, Michael McKean, Emmy the Great May 17, 2016

It’s an all new “Speakeasy” — our occasional, off-the-cuff, slightly profane, online-only podcast where we share some of the great stuff we had to leave on the cutting room floor. This time around you’ll hear Ellie Kemper of “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” attempt to raise the bar for improv (or is it the roof?)… Plus, Comedian […]

Episode 252: Marc Maron, Philippe Petit, and Soylent May 13, 2016

Encore Broadcast: Marc Maron gives etiquette AND time-travel advice… Graphic novelist Mimi Pond lists criminals, spies, and other bohemians … “Man On Wire” tightrope-walker Philippe Petit explores creative chaos… “The Descendants” author Kaui Hart Hemmings tells a new tale… load up on Kleenex ’cause here comes SADvertising… the history of the least respected trophy in […]

Episode 346: Saoirse Ronan, Cameron Diaz, Solomon Georgio May 06, 2016

Oscar-nominee Saoirse Ronan sharpens her skills in Broadway’s Crucible… Actor-and-author Cameron Diaz gives us impeccable advice — for the long haul… A new doc paints a portrait of David Hockney, an artist both bright and blue… One-man-band Kevin Morby recommends a few other artists (and BBQ masters) who went solo… Comedian-on-the-rise Solomon Georgio recalls his […]

Episode 345: Jessica Williams, Dick Cavett, Michael McKean Apr 29, 2016

“The Daily Show” Senior Correspondent Jessica Williams dishes about her most devastating moment (in an olive oil shop in Park Slope)… Talk-show legend Dick Cavett waxes poetic on playing himself… Comedian Jen Kirkman loses her cell phone and changes her life… Actor Michael McKean, of “This is Spinal Tap” and “Laverne and Shirley” fame, briefs […]

Episode 344: Anderson Cooper, Nahnatchka Khan, Parquet Courts Apr 22, 2016

Journalist and TV host Anderson Cooper dazzles us with details from the new memoir he co-wrote with his heiress mom, Gloria Vanderbilt… Nahnatchka Khan, showrunner for the sitcom “Fresh Off the Boat,” thanks her Dad for trapping her in a car… Atlas Obscura’s Reyhan Harmanci regales us with tales of lab rats with cold feet… […]

Episode 318: Salman Rushdie, Alice Cooper, Carly Rae Jepsen Apr 15, 2016

Encore Broadcast: Novelist Salman Rushdie stirs up age-old mischief – and magic… Shock rock legend Alice Cooper tells wild tales of Groucho Marx, Paul McCartney, and his “Hollywood Vampires” crew, then slays us with sensible etiquette advice … Carly Rae Jepsen DJs our party (you’ll really, really like her soundtrack)…. We shed light on the daguerreotype, […]

Episode 343: The ALL-TV Episode Apr 08, 2016

It’s a special “ALL-TV” Episode, featuring big talent from the small screen! Ellie Kemper of “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” smiles into the void… T.J. Miller (“Silicon Valley”) recommends wedding gifts for the budget-minded (just make sure you have your tetanus shot)… “Orange is the New Black” star Uzo Aduba invites Shakespeare to the slammer… TV mastermind […]

Episode 342: Nicholas Hoult, Tatiana Maslany, Duncan Sheik Apr 01, 2016

“Orphan Black” star Tatiana Maslany plays clones, twins, and Ying Yang Twins… Nicholas Hoult (“Mad Max: Fury Road,” the new “Kill Your Friends”) revels in a bit of depravity – and a good fanny pack… “American Psycho” gets the Broadway treatment, from Tony winner Duncan Sheik… A portrait of Georgia O’Keefe as a young woman… […]

341: Daniel Clowes, Cameron Esposito, Quilt Mar 25, 2016

Graphic novelist Daniel Clowes on his unusual and endangered drawing utensils… Newly-married comedian Cameron Esposito describes her very public bachelor party and gives us etiquette advice… Sabri Ben-Achour of “Marketplace” and “Actuality” ponders the ghosts of peanuts past… The band Quilt DJs the chillest dinner party ever… NYMag’s Sierra Tishgart dishes on the deal with […]

340: Jeff Nichols, Lauren Weedman, Tindersticks Mar 18, 2016

Southern filmmaker Jeff Nichols (“Mud,” the new “Midnight Special”) brings sci-fi down to earth, then offers up some pearls of wisdom… One of the art world’s bright lights, Dan Colen, muses on his new visions– part-Disney, part-J.M.W. Turner… Scene-stealer and storyteller Lauren Weedman tells a tale of moms and “Miss Fortune”… We recall the day […]

Speakeasy Special #6: Alan Cumming, Adam McKay, Dave Navarro Mar 15, 2016

It’s an all new “Speakeasy” — our occasional, off-the-cuff, slightly profane, online-only series in which we give you a peek behind the scenes… and share some of the great stuff we had to leave on the cutting room floor. In this newest installment you’ll hear Brendan and Rico make a few martini recommendations for folks […]

Episode 329: Alicia Vikander, Randall Munroe, EL VY Mar 11, 2016

Encore Broadcast: Alicia Vikander, star of “The Danish Girl,” on why she hates Pictionary… “xkcd” cartoonist Randall Munroe helps us keep it simple… Matt Berninger and Brent Knopf of the band El Vy quarrel over Cat Stevens… Emily Post’s great-grandchildren on whether it’s OK to bring a half-empty bottle of wine to a party (or is […]

Episode 339: Viola Davis, Alan Cumming, Dave Navarro Mar 04, 2016

Actor Viola Davis — star of the ABC hit show “How to Get Away with Murder” — waxes poetic on the wonders of Vaseline… Broadway star Alan Cumming gives us an etiquette lesson and reminds us that he is NOT a performing poodle… Jane’s Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro navigates the darkest moment of his life […]

Episode 338: The NOTscars Special Feb 26, 2016

It’s our first NOTscars show — for everything you won’t find at the Oscars! “Tangerine” star Mya Taylor on Hollywood realness and her rural refuge… New York Times film critic AO Scott lists his favorite Academy-ignored films… Heben Nigatu and Tracy Clayton of the “Another Round” podcast on tired movie tropes and #OscarsSoWhite… “Mad Max: […]

Episode 337: Adam McKay, George Miller, Santigold Feb 19, 2016

Two Oscar-nominated filmmakers tell us about finding stories in unexpected places — Adam McKay (“The Big Short”) and George Miller (“Mad Max: Fury Road”)… Santigold revives our spirits with her party soundtrack… The down-and-up history of the Ferris Wheel… Star L.A. chef Roy Choi reinvents fast food, in the heart of Watts… And more!

Episode 336: Jason Schwartzman, Jenny Slate, Father John Misty, Lena Waithe Feb 12, 2016

It’s a special live(ly) edition of the DPD, recorded in front of a sold-out L.A. crowd! Actor Jason Schwartzman revisits his “Rushmore” audition… Comedian Jenny Slate talks Marcel the Shell and Michael Dukakis the Hottie… Father John Misty plays a few party-stopping songs… And TV writer-producer Lena Waithe (currently starring in “Master of None”) tells […]

Speakeasy Special #5 Feb 09, 2016

It’s an all new “Speakeasy” — our occasional, off-the-cuff, slightly profane, online-only series in which we give you a peek behind the scenes… and share some of the great stuff we had to leave on the cutting room floor. This time around, you’ll hear how Sir Ian McKellan‘s “Gap of Rohan” icebreaker came together (and […]

Episode 323: Olivia Wilde, Elvis Costello, Paul F. Tompkins Feb 05, 2016

Encore Broadcast: “Meadowland” actor Olivia Wilde tells us about non-nurturing female characters… Music legend Elvis Costello chats about his new memoir… We toast to Little Richard’s religious awakening… Art god Laurie Anderson weaves together a gripping tale about her rainy stint at an Amish farm… Young adult novelist Leigh Bardugo gives us her list of […]

Episode 325: Brie Larson, Gloria Steinem, Raury Jan 29, 2016

Encore Broadcast: Actor Brie Larson, star of “Room,” talks about being trapped on a plane while passengers watch her movie… The esteemed Gloria Steinem answers etiquette questions and gives you permission NOT to smile… folk-hip-hop artist Raury DJs your dinner party in a futuristic forest… Mary-Louise Parker reads a letter from her new book (don’t call it a […]

Episode 315: Jason Segel, Diablo Cody, and Three Cool Cats Dec 30, 2015

Encore Broadcast: This week we revisit one of our favorite 2015 episodes: Actor Jason Segel turns over a new leaf, as David Foster Wallace, in the biopic “The End of the Tour”… Rock star writer Diablo Cody (“Ricki and the Flash”) comes bearing etiquette (and karaoke) tips … Bobcat Goldthwait remembers Barry Crimmins, the man who brought conscience (and […]

Best of 2015: Carrie Brownstein, Oscar Isaac, Shamir Dec 23, 2015

Sit back, relax, and aim your ears at these standout moments from punk singer Carrie Brownstein, artist Laurie Anderson, actor Oscar Isaac, comedian Michael Ian Black, and dance-pop maestro Shamir. Plus, your favorite icebreaker and history lesson of the year… and a Small Talk mash-up. (We’ll call it Tiny Talk!) Here’s to lots more phenomenal […]

Episode 331: Gael Garcia Bernal, Molly Crabapple, Hannibal Buress Dec 18, 2015

Gael Garcia Bernal — a Golden Globe nominee for the series “Mozart in the Jungle” — goes from messiah to maestro… Comedian Hannibal Buress offers up etiquette advice for humans, from dogs… Illustrator and commentator Molly Crabapple likens drawing to dancing – to picking scabs… We tune into an offbeat holiday soundtrack, courtesy British song-smith […]

2015 DPD Holiday Special: Darryl ‘DMC’ McDaniels, Fran Lebowitz, Macklemore Dec 17, 2015

We’ve made a special episode of “The Dinner Party Download” stuffed with holiday goodness. Hip-hop legend Darryl McDaniels (the “DMC” of Run-DMC) riffs on his mega-hit “Christmas in Hollis”… TV’s “Naked Chef” Jamie Oliver injects some health into our holiday menu (but don’t mess with his decadent cheese toasty)… Humorist Fran Lebowitz keeps the season […]

Episode 329: Alicia Vikander, Randall Munroe, EL VY Dec 11, 2015

Alicia Vikander, star of “The Danish Girl,” on why she hates Pictionary… “xkcd” cartoonist Randall Munroe helps us keep it simple… Matt Berninger and Brent Knopf of the band El Vy quarrel over Cat Stevens… Emily Post’s great-grandchildren on whether it’s OK to bring a half-empty bottle of wine to a party (or is it […]

Episode 328: Ian McKellen, Cindy Crawford, Wine Crime Dec 04, 2015

Master thespian Sir Ian McKellen with etiquette advice and real talk about his least favorite co-stars… supermodel Cindy Crawford recalls her photo shoot with a 40-pound python… Investigative journalist Christine Haughney on why in wine, there’s not always truth… Will Toledo — of lo-fi indie rock band Car Seat Headrest — DJs your laid-back dinner […]

Episode 311: Joe Manganiello, Devendra Banhart, Joy Williams Nov 27, 2015

Encore Broadcast: “Magic Mike” star Joe Manganiello strips away our bad etiquette habits… Artist-musician Devendra Banhart ruminates on art, ritual, and everlasting honey… Grammy-winner Joy Williams (formerly of The Civil Wars) shares a party soundtrack, direct from her Nashville “Night Circus”…The pros and cons of dining with dogs… Nina Simone gets a close-up, from acclaimed documentarian […]

The 2015 All-Food Show Nov 20, 2015

Just in time for a week of feasting, it’s our special All-Food Show! Chefs Gabrielle Hamilton and Dan Barber turn food afterthoughts into fine dining … We ruminate on the history of the toothpick… Questlove and Conor Oberst play dinnertime DJ… Eddie Huang, of “Fresh off the Boat” fame, addresses do’s and don’ts about donuts… […]

Episode 326: Allison Janney, Norman Lear, John Mulaney Nov 13, 2015

Allison Janney, star of the CBS sitcom “Mom,” on the humor in life’s heavy stuff… Alan Palomo, better known as Neon Indian, DJs your bomb shelter dinner party (but you’ll have to bring your own food)… Bon Appetit’s Adam Rapoport on how to pre-game for a food coma… The veteran producer behind “The Jeffersons” and […]

Episode 325: Brie Larson, Gloria Steinem, Raury Nov 06, 2015

Actor Brie Larson, star of “Room,” talks about being trapped on a plane while passengers watch her movie… The esteemed Gloria Steinem answers etiquette questions and gives you permission NOT to smile… folk-hip-hop artist Raury DJs your dinner party in a futuristic forest… Mary-Louise Parker reads a letter from her new book (don’t call it a memoir!)… Plus, […]

Episode 324: Carrie Brownstein, T.J. Miller, Colin Hanks Oct 30, 2015

Indie rock god Carrie Brownstein on the troubles and triumphs of touring, as outlined in her new memoir… “Silicon Valley” star TJ Miller recommends wedding gifts for the budget-conscious (make sure you have your tetanus shot!)… Actor and first-time director Colin Hanks guides us through the rise and fall of Tower Records… Rising opera star […]

Speakeasy Special #4 Oct 27, 2015

Surprise! It’s a new “Speakeasy” — our occasional, off-the-cuff, slightly profane, online-only series in which we give you a peek behind the scenes at the making of the DPD… and give a listen to some of the great stuff we had to leave on the cutting room floor. This time around: never-before-heard snippets of actor […]

Episode 310: Al Pacino, Adam Scott & Jason Schwartzman, Flo Morrissey Oct 23, 2015

Encore Broadcast: Al Pacino reflects on playing himself (method, of course), improvising with Sidney Lumet, and watching YOU from the corner booth… Adam Scott and Jason Schwartzman, two forces behind the risque new comedy “The Overnight,” pass our etiquette pop(corn) quiz… Precocious singer Flo Morrissey fashions a soundtrack for lovers, dreamers, and an international man of […]

Episode 323: Olivia Wilde, Elvis Costello, Paul F. Tompkins Oct 16, 2015

This week: “Meadowland” actor Olivia Wilde tells us about non-nurturing female characters… Music legend Elvis Costello chats about his new memoir… We toast to Little Richard’s religious awakening… Art god Laurie Anderson weaves together a gripping tale about her rainy stint at an Amish farm… Young adult novelist Leigh Bardugo gives us her list of […]

Episode 322: Tony Bennett & Bill Charlap, Kurt Vile, J. Kenji López-Alt Oct 09, 2015

This week: Legendary singer Tony Bennett, with collaborator Bill Charlap, color our world joyful – then compliment Rico’s dad… Rocker Kurt Vile spins a soundtrack for cowboys, outlaws, and toddlers… Mad food scientist J. Kenji Lopez-Alt solves a few kitchen mysteries… The Posts run etiquette circles around us… A fascinating new documentary puts a face […]

Episode 321: Run The Jewels, Elizabeth Gilbert, Pauline Black Oct 02, 2015

This week: Hip-hop duo Run The Jewels explains the cat sounds in their new album… Graphic novelist Adrian Tomine tells us why he writes about confused dads… “Eat, Pray, Love” author Elizabeth Gilbert gives us passive-aggressive advice… Ska legend Pauline Black of The Selecter spins us a spunky and soulful soundtrack… We learn about the […]

Episode 320: Peter Capaldi, Paul Scheer, Shamir Sep 25, 2015

Peter Capaldi — star of the beloved sci-fi series “Dr. Who” — brings etiquette advice via TARDIS… Funnyman Paul Scheer revels in terrible movies, pseudo-reality… Filmmaker Alexandra Pelosi explores how the tech boom and gentrification have remade San Francisco, her hometown… Dance-pop star Shamir works it, while working retail, and whips up a party soundtrack… […]

2015 LA Podfest Bonus: Paul Scheer, Aisha Tyler, Ann Friedman Sep 23, 2015

Folks! We’re unleashing here a special BONUS EPISODE, taped this past Sunday at the Los Angeles Podcast Festival. Funnyman Paul Scheer (“The League” and “How Did This Get Made?“) explains what makes awful films awful, and tries really hard to make Russell Crowe laugh. Comedian Aisha Tyler (“Archer“) relives her “Rockapella” days (feat. tons of […]

Episode 291: Eddie Redmayne, Issa Rae, Andrew Jarecki Sep 18, 2015

Encore Broadcast: Eddie Redmayne reveals his egg-y fears … Issa Rae gives tips for shutting down awkward asks … Why not leaving a tip might be the nicest thing you can do for a waiter … Swedish star Seinabo Sey warms us up … A documentarian tells us why audiences love true-crime stories … We […]

Episode 319: Emily Mortimer, Julie Klausner, Destroyer Sep 11, 2015

This week: Writer-actor Emily Mortimer (“Doll & Em”) puts friendships under the lens, makes us laugh and squirm… Julie Klausner, co-mastermind of the new comedy series “Difficult People,” tackles your questions with ease … Pop musician Destroyer (a.k.a. Dan Bejar) invites Van Morrison to the party, three times… The day the sun (almost) exploded, as […]

Episode 318: Salman Rushdie, Alice Cooper, Carly Rae Jepsen Sep 04, 2015

This week: Novelist Salman Rushdie stirs up age-old mischief – and magic… Shock rock legend Alice Cooper tells wild tales of Groucho Marx, Paul McCartney, and his “Hollywood Vampires” crew, then slays us with sensible etiquette advice … Carly Rae Jepsen DJs our party (you’ll really, really like her soundtrack)…. We shed light on the […]

Episode 317: Uzo Aduba, Yo La Tengo, Doug Aitken Aug 29, 2015

This week: Emmy-nominated actor Uzo Aduba (“Orange is the New Black”) on what keeps “Crazy Eyes” grounded – and wild fan run-ins…Indie rockers Yo La Tengo cook up a cover-rich soundtrack… Artist Doug Aitken breathes life (and art and music) into old rail hubs, in his new documentary “Station to Station”… The most elaborate college […]

316: Uzo Aduba, Yo La Tengo, Doug Aitken Aug 29, 2015

This week: Emmy-nominated actor Uzo Aduba (“Orange is the New Black”) on what keeps “Crazy Eyes” grounded – and wild fan run-ins…Indie rockers Yo La Tengo cook up a cover-rich soundtrack… Artist Doug Aitken breathes life (and art and music) into old rail hubs, in his new documentary “Station to Station”… The most elaborate college […]

Episode 269: Mel Brooks, Greta Gerwig, and AC Newman Aug 21, 2015

Encore Broadcast: Comedy legend Mel Brooks reanimates “Young Frankenstein” then offers priceless etiquette advice (warning: may include death threats, flatulence, gallows humor, and uncontrollable laughter)… Actress Greta Gerwig (“Frances Ha” and “Mistress America”) tries a love story on for size… AC Newman of indie rock super-group The New Pornographers spins a party soundtrack that’s so […]

Episode 316: The 2015 Icebreaker Episode Aug 14, 2015

Witness the 2015 all-joke extravaganza! Per DPD tradition, we’ve crammed a year’s worth of so-bad-they’re-good icebreakers into one nifty little package. You’ll hear enough lightbulb-changing jokes to last you a lifetime, along with witty one-liners and groaners, from guests including Adam Scott, Marion Cotillard, Joe Manganiello, Tracee Ellis Ross, Oscar the Grouch, Jenny Slate, David […]

Speakeasy Special #3 Aug 11, 2015

“Speakeasy #3″ is here! It’s our special podcast where we share behind-the-scenes bits and never-before-heard snippets that didn’t make it into our weekly episodes. In our newest installment, Jason Schwartzman and Adam Scott talk power bar problems, Al Pacino invites Brendan on a play date in NYC, and Jason Segel “freaks” out (in the most […]

Episode 296: Ethan Hawke, Broad City, David Duchovny, Vetiver Aug 07, 2015

Encore Broadcast: Ethan Hawke’s intimate portrait of an artist… The ladies of “Broad City” riff on their fave BFFs… Newly-minted *novelist* David Duchovny sees a baby wolf and flees… Troubadour Vetiver serenades our party with the sounds of Brazil… One modern man’s quest to find Atlantis… An artist types his way through the canon… And we […]

Episode 315: Jason Segel, Diablo Cody, and Three Cool Cats Jul 31, 2015

This week: Actor Jason Segel turns over a new leaf, as David Foster Wallace, in the biopic “The End of the Tour”… Etiquette (and karaoke) tips from rock star writer Diablo Cody (“Ricki and the Flash”)… Bobcat Goldthwait remembers Barry Crimmins, the man who brought conscience (and anger) to comedy… A taste of haute cuisine […]

Episode 314: Abigail Spencer, Riki Lindhome, ‘Aqua Teen Hunger Force’ Jul 24, 2015

This week: Actor Abigail Spencer cherishes the Southern truths — and roots — of TV’s “Rectify” … Comedian Riki Lindhome, co-everything of the new parody series “Another Period,” gives real talk to Lolitas and ‘Downton’ divas …Rico hops off-menu to try Oaxacan pickled bread a.k.a. “Piedrazos”…A most absurd list, from the masterminds of “Aqua Teen […]

Episode 313: Liev Schreiber, Joshua Oppenheimer, Mark Ronson Jul 17, 2015

On this week’s show: Liev Schreiber, star of the hit hit-man series “Ray Donovan,” brings stories of his dog days… A follow-up documentary from Oscar nominee Joshua Oppenheimer (“The Act of Killing”) looks into the eyes of mass murderers… Mega-producer Mark Ronson DJs our dinner party, gets us out of our seats… A requiem for […]

Episode 299: Oscar Isaac, Fran Drescher, Wayne Coyne Jul 10, 2015

Encore Broadcast: Actor Oscar Isaac (“Ex Machina,” “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”) isn’t bullish on ‘the future’ (but his is bright)… Fran Drescher and her dog laugh in the face of our etiquette questions… The Flaming Lips’ Wayne Coyne turns our party into a Lynch-ian dreamscape… Mary Norris, copy editor at the New Yorker, shares a […]

Episode 312: Tim and Eric, Juan Felipe Herrera, UnREALity TV Jul 03, 2015

This week: Comedy duo Tim and Eric get into the Etiquette Zone… New U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera wears many hats, counts many lizard tails… An “UnREAL” new show skewers reality TV… Debut novelist Naomi Jackson links Brooklyn and Barbados…The best form-breaking talk shows, handpicked by comedian Chris Gethard (“The Chris Gethard Show”)… And we […]

Episode 311: Joe Manganiello, Devendra Banhart, Joy Williams Jun 26, 2015

This week: “Magic Mike” star Joe Manganiello strips away our bad etiquette habits… Artist-musician Devendra Banhart ruminates on art, ritual, and everlasting honey… Grammy-winner Joy Williams (formerly of The Civil Wars) shares a party soundtrack, direct from her Nashville “Night Circus”…The pros and cons of dining with dogs… Nina Simone gets a close-up, from acclaimed […]

Episode 310: Al Pacino, Adam Scott & Jason Schwartzman, Flo Morrissey Jun 19, 2015

This week: Al Pacino reflects on playing himself (method, of course), improvising with Sidney Lumet, and watching YOU from the corner booth… Adam Scott and Jason Schwartzman, two forces behind the risque new comedy “The Overnight,” pass our etiquette pop(corn) quiz… Precocious singer Flo Morrissey fashions a soundtrack for lovers, dreamers, and an international man […]

Episode 309: Paul Dano, Jackie Collins, Hot Chip Jun 13, 2015

On this week’s show: Actor Paul Dano channels his inner Beach Boy…The always saucy novelist Jackie Collins heats up our etiquette segment with talk of models, lost underwear, and a stolen microwave… Crystal Moselle reflects on her unique new documentary, “The Wolfpack,” an extreme case of pop culture-as-parent… Alexis Taylor of the band Hot Chip […]

Episode 308: Marion Cotillard, Kenny G, High Maintenance Jun 05, 2015

Encore Broadcast: Marion Cotillard shines a light … Kenny G goes Brazilian … The challenges and rewards of working with a spouse … How what we feel affects our feelings … A totes fake resto … A picky bit of history … Corin Tucker calls … Kelly Link’s story of an unusual relationship … New […]

Episode 307: Alison Bechdel, Chuck Palahniuk, Colleen May 30, 2015

On this week’s show: Alison Bechdel — whose graphic memoir “Fun Home” is now a 12-time Tony-nominated musical — tells us how she gets comfy, with her life on stage… “Fight Club” author Chuck Palahniuk schools us in prank-ology, to celebrate his new sequel… The Posts tackle some especially hairy etiquette hang-ups… We tune into […]

Episode 306: Michael Ian Black, Angel Olsen, Marlon James, Lizzo May 23, 2015

This week, it’s a special live(ly) edition of the DPD, recorded at the historic Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, Minnesota. Comedian Michael Ian Black comes bearing terrible casseroles and terribly funny etiquette advice… Rocker Angel Olsen plays the lights out… Acclaimed novelist Marlon James remembers the time when his inner diva took center-stage, then introduces […]

Episode 305: Blondie, Oscar the Grouch, Thomas Vinterberg May 15, 2015

This week: The band Blondie talks mod style and hoarding habits… Danish filmmaker Thomas Vinterberg ponders the vicissitudes of fate – and then yodels… Oscar the Grouch deigns to give us etiquette advice (DON’T thank him for it)… Comedian Maz Jobrani gets his dream gig, with a nightmarish caveat… We digest some Knish Knowledge… British […]

Speakeasy Special #2: Remembering Chris Burden May 12, 2015

Today we bring you the second installment of “Speakeasy,” an occasional special podcast in which we chat off-the-cuff, and share never-before-heard bits that didn’t make it into our weekly episodes. In this edition, Rico and Brendan talk about Chris Burden — one of America’s most important and respected conceptual artists — who died this Sunday at the […]

Episode 304: Mike Leigh, Gina Rodriguez, Joseph Gordon-Levitt May 08, 2015

Encore Broadcast: Filmmaker Mike Leigh talks about crop circles (yes, those crop circles) … Actor Gina Rodriguez explains how “Breaking Bad” is crazier than a telenovela … What we can learn about dictators from thier food obsessions … A replay of the history of the replay … Joseph Gordon-Levitt on art outside the Hollywood machine […]

Episode 303: Amy Schumer, Cokie Roberts, Kurt Cobain in His Own Words May 02, 2015

This week: Peabody Award-winning comedian Amy Schumer talks on the wild side… NPR correspondent Cokie Roberts celebrates our female forebears, then offers some civil advice … A new documentary is at home with Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain… Improv wizard and general smartypants Greg Proops challenges three brains to a battle… Nashville’s hot chicken lives up to […]

Episode 302: Mark Ronson, Young Fathers, ‘War Fries’ Apr 24, 2015

This week: Mark Ronson makes a new Macarena, dissects the many roles of a modern-day music producer… Writer Amelia Gray imagines a world of competitive grieving… Scottish hip-hop artists Young Fathers – winners of the Mercury Prize for Best 2014 British Album – deejay a deep dinner party… The Posts return with gripping advice … […]

Episode 301: The 2015 All-Music Episode Apr 17, 2015

This week: Just in time for the last Coachella weekend and Record Store Day, it’s a special ALL-MUSIC EPISODE! We’ve got tunes and tales from Nancy Sinatra, Miguel, Carrie Brownstein, Weird Al Yankovic and Steve Martin. Also, David Crosby chats about crafting his classic California album… Classical maestro Gustavo Dudamel declares his love for all […]

Episode 300: DPD Special! Apr 10, 2015

This week: To celebrate our 300th episode, we’re telling the DPD origin story! You’ll hear pieces of our first-ever episode (yes, spooky)… highlights from format-busting conversations with Spike Lee and Elaine Stritch… Advice (and jeers) from our public radio peers… Behind-the-scenes tales that we’ve never shared before… And a chat with two very special guests, […]

Episode 299: Oscar Isaac, Fran Drescher, Wayne Coyne Apr 03, 2015

This Week: Actor Oscar Isaac (“Ex Machina,” “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”) isn’t bullish on ‘the future’ (but his is bright)… Fran Drescher and her dog laugh in the face of our etiquette questions… The Flaming Lips’ Wayne Coyne turns our party into a Lynch-ian dreamscape… Mary Norris, copy editor at the New Yorker, shares […]

Speakeasy Special #1 Mar 31, 2015

Welcome to the first episode of “Speakeasy,” an occasional special podcast in which we share never-before-heard bits that didn’t make it into our weekly episodes. Think of it like the casual little bistro beside our bustling restaurant. On this inaugural podcast, Aubrey Plaza and Brendan invent a new morning beverage – the breakfast martini; Zachary […]

Episode 298: Aubrey Plaza, Laura Marling, Scharpling & Wurster Mar 27, 2015

Actress Aubrey Plaza needs no introduction (because she’s got it memorized)… Singer-songwriter Laura Marling has a soundtrack for evenings warm and chilly… Writer Jon Ronson looks at shaming on social media and sees our modern pillory… The comic duo Scharpling & Wurster take our etiquette segment to the strangest of places, which might be a city […]

Episode 297: Zachary Quinto, Sara Schaefer, Leon Bridges Mar 21, 2015

This week: Actor Zachary Quinto gets a memento from Tennessee Williams… Soul singer Leon Bridges steps back in time… Comedian Sara Schaefer aces her hygiene homework… Beating food waste, in new ways… The most costly art heist in US history inspires a bitter cocktail (made by a former art guard!)… A soundtrack from post-punk band […]

Episode 296: Ethan Hawke, Broad City, David Duchovny, Vetiver Mar 14, 2015

This week: Ethan Hawke’s intimate portrait of an artist… The ladies of “Broad City” riff on their fave BFFs… Newly-minted *novelist* David Duchovny sees a baby wolf and flees… Troubadour Vetiver serenades our party with the sounds of Brazil… One modern man’s quest to find Atlantis… An artist types his way through the canon… And […]

Episode 295: Dev Patel, Dave Barry, Lady Lamb Mar 07, 2015

This week: “Chappie” star Dev Patel on acting alongside robots and Dames… Dave Barry brings a machete to our etiquette segment… Author Tania James sees life (and loss) through the eyes of a child elephant… Singer Lady Lamb makes a playlist for us, and for her best friend Shervin…”The Cat in the Hat” trumps Dick […]

Episode 294: Jason Schwartzman, Weezer, Barbara Kruger, Tenacious D Feb 28, 2015

Encore Broadcast: Actor Jason Schwartzman – star of the new film “Listen Up Philip” – pits his ego against Brendan’s… A soundtrack from Weezer’s Rivers Cuomo inspires hand-holding… Iconoclastic artist Barbara Kruger points and doesn’t shoot… And Jack Black and Kyle Gass of Tenacious D shred etiquette to pieces. Also, humorist Simon Rich ponders barbarism […]

Episode 293: Titus Welliver, Sleater-Kinney, Tracee Ellis Ross Feb 21, 2015

This week: Actor Titus Welliver on shooting a gun, canonically … Corin Tucker doesn’t think her band’s music is too awful … Tracee Ellis Ross shares the gift of laughter and a loopy life coach … Comedian Maz Jobrani helps our listeners confront stereotypes and racism, with jokes … Hollywood costume creator Colleen Atwood reveals […]

Episode 292: Marion Cotillard, Kenny G, High Maintenance Feb 14, 2015

Marion Cotillard shines a light … Kenny G goes Brazilian … The challenges and rewards of working with a spouse … How what we feel affects our feelings … A totes fake resto … A picky bit of history … Corin Tucker calls … Kelly Link’s story of an unusual relationship … New tune from […]

Episode 291: Eddie Redmayne, Issa Rae, Andrew Jarecki Feb 07, 2015

Eddie Redmayne reveals his egg-y fears … Issa Rae gives tips for shutting down awkward asks … Why not leaving a tip might be the nicest thing you can do for a waiter … Swedish star Seinabo Sey warms us up … A documentarian tells us why audiences love true-crime stories … We get some […]

Episode 290: Patricia Arquette, Weird Al, and Jenny Lewis Jan 31, 2015

Pop-parodist “Weird Al” Yankovic on being weird (and Weird, and “Weird”) … “Boyhood” star Patricia Arquette’s stolen Santa Clauses … How singer Jenny Lewis kicks people out … A trademark-licensing dispute that lead to a big hit … Visiting a magical-realist Virgin Islands with author Tiphanie Yanique … New York Philharmonic conductor Alan Gilbert counts coughs to judge […]

Episode 289: Frank Gehry, Miranda July, Dame Edna Jan 24, 2015

This week: A musical peek into Frank Gehry’s house … Dame Edna delivers ‘glorious’ advice … Miranda July builds a system … The children raised amid resource extraction … Adding butter to coffee to make it ‘Bulletproof’ …Natalie Prass curates a list of sisters and goddesses … A trip to Robinson Crusoe’s island … And […]

Episode 288: Nick Kroll, Laura Poitras, Eddie Huang Jan 17, 2015

This week: The filmmaker who documented Edward Snowden (but didn’t decorate his hotel room) … Comedian Nick Kroll goes in search of the weirdest voices in America … Chef and author Eddie Huang tries to bring authenticity to a network sitcom … Kolache pastries heat up … An opera star shares moments when music made […]

Episode 287: J.C. Chandor, Mark Duplass, Twerps Jan 10, 2015

This week: Actor-writer-director Mark Duplass on brotherly love – without eye-contact … A spicy, south-of-the-border drink trend … Filmmaker J.C. Chandor makes art inspired by tragedy … FM radio is invented, and we’re pretty grateful … An ex-Aerosmith roadie/sailor/journalist settles down on an unlikely farm … Aussie rockers Twerps turn up the volume … Latin […]

Episode 286: Best of 2014 Jan 02, 2015

We are kicking off 2015 by rounding-up some of our (and your!) favorite moments from 2014. Actor Jeffrey Tambor talks parenting — in real life and television … Grilled cheese sandwiches fall from the sky … Anjelica Huston will not be forgotten … A collection of all-star etiquette wisdom from Billy Eichner, Mel Brooks, Betty […]

Episode 285: Wes Anderson, Dave Barry, and Real Estate Dec 27, 2014

This Week: Filmmaker Wes Anderson on stoves that witnessed history… Humorist Dave Barry takes aim at your etiquette questions… Real Estate play party DJ… Lit phenom Helen Oyeyemi gazes into the mirror, mirror….And Noah Strycker opens up his bird-brain. Plus: wild camels roaming Texas, the strangest cleanse ever, and Mac DeMarco’s tuneful “Brother.”

Holiday Bonus: Frolic with Molly Ringwald and Friends Dec 24, 2014

We’re issuing you a holiday bonus — in the form of an extra podcast. We know, it’s what you wanted most of all. So we’ve wrapped up the contents of our recent Holiday Frolic live event staged in Los Angeles. You’ll hear an extended version of the B.J. Novak story and conversation from last week’s […]

Episode 284: B.J. Novak (live!), The Dukes of Hazzard, and Miriam Toews Dec 20, 2014

A special fireside chat with writer-actor B.J. Novak, from our “Holiday Frolic” road show … Also: Canadian author Miriam Toews’ tale of two sisters… We tag along on “The Search for General Tso” … The stars of classic 1970’s “The Dukes of Hazzard” play holiday DJ for us … Actor Joel Edgerton swims right into a punchline […]

Episode 283: Mike Leigh, Gina Rodriguez, Joseph Gordon-Levitt Dec 12, 2014

This week: Filmmaker Mike Leigh talks about crop circles (yes, those crop circles) … Actor Gina Rodriguez explains how “Breaking Bad” is crazier than a telenovela … What we can learn about dictators from thier food obsessions … A replay of the history of the replay … Joseph Gordon-Levitt on art outside the Hollywood machine […]

Episode 282: Michael Cera, Nick Hornby, and Viv Albertine Dec 06, 2014

This week: How Michael Cera keeps the act alive … Viv Albertine of The Slits on punk rock conformity … Nick Hornby reveals his secret plans for “Wild II” … Essayist Meghan Daum is not impressed by Cronuts … Conor Oberst serves up an eclectic dinner party playlist … Momo dumplings migrate from the Himalayas to Queens […]

Episode 281: All-Food Special 2014 Nov 28, 2014

To celebrate Thanksgiving (and, even better, leftovers!) it’s our annual All Food Special. Featuring: Perfection on a sushi plate … Hot, spicy, and festive horseradish … Filmmaker Jim Jarmush gets corny … Jimmy Buffet makes an indie rocker cry … Trendy Filipino flavors … Obsessive food Instagramming … A glimpse inside a restaurant kitchen … […]

Episode 280: Bryan Ferry, Aasif Mandvi, and Jessie Ware Nov 22, 2014

Roxy Music rocker Bryan Ferry explains capital-A Art … Lynne Rossetto Kasper takes a seat at our Splendid Table … One of the nation’s most-acclaimed poets, Billy Collins, invents some words … Aasif Mandvi of “The Daily Show” channels MJ to unite a crowd … Singer Jessie Ware gets sassy … Beer writer William Bostwick on beers from watered-down […]

Episode 279: Anjelica Huston, Gabrielle Hamilton, and Glyn Johns Nov 15, 2014

Anjelica Huston talks about bad boys and leading ladies … The difficulty of making a film in a warzone … Chef and author Gabrielle Hamilton cooks what she knows … You may not have heard of Glyn Johns, but you’ve probably heard the long list of rock hits he helped create … Emily Spivack unsuccessfully […]

Episode 278: Audra McDonald, Thomas Jefferson, and Haggis in the U.S.A. Nov 08, 2014

Broadway star Audra McDonald is about to launch a national tour; here’s how not to decorate for her welcome party … Thomas Jefferson (well, scholar and radio host Clay Jenkinson channeling Thomas Jefferson) expounds on patriotic decorum … Get ready, people, for a playlist from indie-supergroup People Get Ready … A scoop of new Spoon … […]

Episode 277: Elle Fanning, Gary Shteyngart, and The Sporkful Nov 01, 2014

Elle Fanning talks about her extra-curricular activities … Author Gary Shteyngart is only a little failure … Ruben Östlund has made a film that may increase Sweden’s divorce rate … One bubbly coffee entrepreneur explains his innovation … Michelangelo really, really, did not want to paint that ceiling … Patrick Haggerty puts together a playlist for […]

Episode 276: Jason Schwartzman, Weezer, Barbara Kruger, Tenacious D Oct 25, 2014

Actor Jason Schwartzman – star of the new film “Listen Up Philip” – pits his ego against Brendan’s… A soundtrack from Weezer’s Rivers Cuomo inspires hand-holding… Iconoclastic artist Barbara Kruger points and doesn’t shoot… And Jack Black and Kyle Gass of Tenacious D shred etiquette to pieces. Also, humorist Simon Rich ponders barbarism and hamsters, […]

Episode 275: Joel Edgerton, Justin Simien, and Banks Oct 18, 2014

This week: Aussie actor Joel Edgerton (“The Great Gatsby,” “Warrior”) dances into the spotlight with wildly different fall projects, including this week’s “Felony”… Filmmaker Justin Simien (“Dear White People”) explores the many shades of black identity, and talks etiquette with y’all… A be-witching soundtrack from electro-pop songstress Banks…Food falls from the sky! Brendan opens his mouth… The strange backstories of fragrances, […]

Bonus Podcast: The After-Dinner Party Download Oct 15, 2014

A podcast-only bonus! WARNING: These performances from our recent live show are smart, funny, and NOT for family listening. (Cursing, frank conversation about sex, etc. Please listen responsibly.) Great stuff though! Comic Moshe Kasher on his Mom’s nontraditional approach to sex ed… & comedy duo Garfunkel & Oates explain how not to break up.

Episode 274: Jenny Slate, John Waters, and First Aid Kit Oct 11, 2014

This week: Filmmaker, writer, and ‘Pope of Trash’ John Waters offers etiquette advice, naturally… Jenny Slate, star of the film “Obvious Child,” says ‘complicated’ and ‘comedy’ can coexist… Swedish sister duo First Aid Kit bring board games and tacos to their dinner cozy party … When we’re hungry, why do we get ‘hangry’? … From […]

Episode 273: Jeffrey Tambor, Perfume Genius, and Quincy Jones Oct 04, 2014

Actor Jeffrey Tambor comes to terms with a catch-phrase … Perfume Genius really wants you to care as much about these songs as he does … Quincy Jones shares what he learned from jazz man Clark Terry … What a jar of baby food teaches us about society … Edgar Allan Poe’s creepy demise – […]

Episode 272: Mia Wasikowska, Nick Frost, and Interpol Sep 27, 2014

Actress Mia Wasikowska (“Alice in Wonderland”) makes “Tracks” across the Outback… British film star Nick Frost (“The Boxtrolls,” “Shaun of the Dead,” “Hot Fuzz”) squares off against etiquette monsters and bachelor party killjoys… Inner-party music from Interpol… “New Yorker” writer John Lahr writes the book on playwright Tennessee Williams… One of history’s strangest bar bets… Susan […]

Episode 271: Bill Hader, Hiss Golden Messenger, and Betty Halbreich Sep 20, 2014

Actor Bill Hader shows off his drama schooling … Bergdorf’s Betty Halbreich dresses down America, while endorsing wearing hats on your face … Biographer Mark Whitaker reflects on Bill Cosby’s comedy and complicated identity … Alt-country musician MC Taylor of Hiss Golden Messenger crafts a party playlist for introverts … Marlon James’ novel humanizes Bob Marley stalkers, and would-be […]

Episode 270: James McAvoy, Jon Favreau, and Emma Straub Sep 12, 2014

This week: Actor James McAvoy (of “X Men” and “Filth”) flies the Scottish flag … Writer-director Jon Favreau cooks up a foodie film … Top author of the summer Emma Straub keeps the vacation going forever … Indie pop duo Sylvan Esso score your next brat barbecue … The one time when you want food to stain your […]

Episode 269: Mel Brooks, Greta Gerwig, and AC Newman Sep 06, 2014

This week: Comedy legend Mel Brooks reanimates “Young Frankenstein” then offers priceless etiquette advice (warning: may include death threats, flatulence, gallows humor, and uncontrollable laughter)… Actress Greta Gerwig (“Frances Ha”) tries a love story on for size… AC Newman of indie rock super-group The New Pornographers spins a party soundtrack that’s so cool, it’ll annoy you… […]

Episode 268: Daniel Radcliffe, Benjamin Booker, and ‘The Narcissist Next Door’ Aug 30, 2014

Actor Daniel Radcliffe’s favorite language … NOLA rocker Benjamin Booker’s wild party … The era when your granddad’s music was super-rebellious … Emily Post-approved place-settings for palaces (and regular restaurants) … Novelist Edan Lepucki’s arty darkness in the California sun … Hula hooping to outer space … Cronuts, ramen burgers, donnolis, and the future of fusion […]

Episode 267: Elisabeth Moss, Alice Waters, George Takei, Jon Wurster Aug 23, 2014

Elisabeth Moss’ supernatural surprise … Taking on George Takei .. Jon Wurster drums in some etiquette lessons … An apple a day won’t keep Alice Waters away … We dig up the story of Daguerreotypes … Greg Poehler is an American fish in an cold Swedish pond … Otis Gibbs rambles about being a ramblin’ man … […]

Episode 266: Kevin Spacey, Ruth Reichl, Todd Snider and Elephant Aug 16, 2014

This week: Stage and screen star Kevin Spacey channels Richard III (and Bill Clinton)… Food icon Ruth Reichl has us eating her words… Folk-rocker Todd Snider meets Tony Bennett in an unlikely place… English pop duo Elephant come together to DJ a dance party… Pluto gets discovered, gets a name – and then gets demoted […]

Episode 265: Pharrell, Carrie Brownstein & Fred Armisen, and Much MØ Aug 09, 2014

This week: Portlandia duo Carrie Brownstein and Fred Armisen open up about hot-tubs, underwear, and weddings … Music multi-hyphenate Pharrell Williams explains his ‘exotic rainbow’ of ‘Happy’-ness … Danish electro-pop phenom Mø spins us a party playlist… author Cari Lynn tells the tale of a NOLA birthday party of ill-repute… How the grandest experiment in […]

Special Live Performance from Teenage Fanclub! Aug 05, 2014

A couple weeks ago, The Dinner Party Download took a trip down south to North Carolina to stage a special live event in conjunction with the Merge 25 music festival. Over three days, dozens of bands from the indie record label Merge’s 25 year history gathered together – and we were delighted to help kick […]

Special Live Performance from Teenage Fanclub! Aug 05, 2014

A couple weeks ago, The Dinner Party Download took a trip down south to North Carolina to stage a special live event in conjunction with the Merge 25 music festival. Over three days, dozens of bands from the indie record label Merge’s 25 year history gathered together – and we were delighted to help kick […]

Episode 264: Margaret Atwood, Tim Gunn, and Hulk Hogan: Hero Aug 01, 2014

This week: literary giant Margaret Atwood is prepared for giant bears… Tim Gunn returns, just in time for Project Runway’s 13th season debut, to save listeners from the ‘comfort trap’… Guitarist Steve Gunn (no relation to Tim, as far as we know) spins a mellow party playlist… The author behind the bestselling “Jack Reacher” series […]

Episode 263: Bill Nye, David Crosby, and Our Big Party in Big Sur Jul 24, 2014

This week: a very special edition of The Dinner Party Download originally crafted as part of the Big Sur Sound and Story Festival at the Henry Miller Memorial Library in Big Sur, California. The show is themed around a summer night, out under the stars. Bill Nye The Science Guy takes us on a trip […]

Episode 262: Scarlett Johansson, Billy Eichner, and Slint Jul 18, 2014

This week: Scarlett Johansson muses on ol’ blue eyes and earthly aliens … Comedian Billy Eichner takes etiquette to the streets … We catch up with 90′s alt stars Slint … A baseball game everyone wanted to lose … A terrifying rabbit, brought to you by UCB co-founder Matt Walsh … Uncovering Uzbek cuisine … […]

Episode 261: Patricia Arquette, Weird Al, and Jenny Lewis Jul 12, 2014

Pop-parodist “Weird Al” Yankovic on being weird (and Weird, and “Weird”) … “Boyhood” star Patricia Arquette’s stolen Santa Clauses … How singer Jenny Lewis kicks people out … A trademark-licensing dispute that lead to a big hit … Visiting a magical-realist Virgin Islands with author Tiphanie Yanique … New York Philharmonic conductor Alan Gilbert counts coughs to judge […]

Episode 260: Audra McDonald, Thomas Jefferson, and Haggis in the U.S.A. Jul 04, 2014

She may perform fearlessly, but Broadway star Audra McDonald tells us which party decoration freaks her right out … Thomas Jefferson (well, scholar and radio host Clay Jenkinson channeling Thomas Jefferson) expounds on patriotic decorum … Get ready, people, for a playlist from indie-supergroup People Get Ready … A scoop of new Spoon … Blankets that […]

Episode 259: Rich Sommer, Jackie Collins, and Roger Ebert, Remembered Jun 28, 2014

The life and legacy of critic Roger Ebert … Secret liaisons with Jackie Collins … Boozing and camping with “Mad Men” actor Rich Sommer … Heavy metal rockers Zig Zags crash your party … A spooky, supernatural adventure … Crafting a symbol of Pride … A joke for book-worms … And dating for super-nerds.

Bonus: Steve Martin, in Conversation – From Scruggs to Jagger Jun 25, 2014

A podcast-only bonus! We’re sharing the extended cut of our interview with Steve Martin, just in time for his 4th-of-July bluegrass shows at The Hollywood Bowl. Steve discusses his musical life, his early days as a performer, and the connection between banjo & de Kooning. Enjoy! And after hearing the interview, you will surely find this to […]

Episode 258: Jonah Hill, House of Cards, Luxury Toast Jun 20, 2014

This week: Jonah Hill’s search for the perfect coupling … Skip Lievsay explains how movies should sound … Life imitates board games imitating life (but not The Game of Life) … One mother’s love-hate relationship with a thousand plastic blocks … Getting what you pay for with luxury toast … The creator of “House of […]

Episode 257: Jenny Slate, John Waters, and First Aid Kit Jun 14, 2014

This week: Filmmaker, writer, and ‘Pope of Trash’ John Waters offers etiquette advice, naturally… Jenny Slate, star of the film “Obvious Child,” says ‘complicated’ and ‘comedy’ can coexist… Swedish sister duo First Aid Kit bring board games and tacos to their dinner cozy party … When we’re hungry, why do we get ‘hangry‘? … From Panama […]

Episode 256: Harry Dean Stanton, Patricia Lockwood, and Hamilton Leithauser Jun 07, 2014

This week: Actor Harry Dean Stanton shows off his singing … Poet Patricia Lockwood revisits childhood … Why Lyndon Johnson fascinates us, fifty years later … Former frontman of The Walkman on his soulful solo debut … Baseball excellence, naturally … The arc of history bends towards better booze … One sleepy rabbit with a […]

Episode 255: Steve Coogan, Hugh Bonneville, B.J. Novak, and “Broad City” BFFs May 30, 2014

This week: Oscar nominee Steve Coogan (“Philomena,” this summer’s upcoming “The Trip to Italy”) meditates on condiments and dramedies … “The Monuments Men” star Hugh Bonneville – a.k.a. Lord Grantham on “Downton Abbey” - minds his manors … Former “The Office” employee B.J. Novak introduces us to Wikipedia Brown, Boy Detective … The BFFs behind Comedy […]

Episode 254: James McAvoy, Jon Favreau, and Wearing Your Food May 24, 2014

This week: Actor James McAvoy (of this week’s new “X Men” blockbuster, and the art-house drama “Filth”) flies the Scottish flag… Writer-director Jon Favreau cooks up a new film… Emma Straub on why vacation with the ‘rents isn’t all that bad… Indie pop duo Sylvan Esso score your next brat barbecue… The one time when […]

Episode 253: Conor Oberst, Colson Whitehead, and Freakonomics May 17, 2014

Musician Conor Oberst gives us a topography lesson … A new movie – and fail-safe flirting tips – from actor Griffin Dunne… ’Freakonomics’ Stephen Dubner is your kryptonite …. Colson Whitehead becomes a gambling man … Inventing the futuristic fastener Velcro … Why bad words might be good for you … Annabelle Gurwitch finds lust in […]

Episode 252: Marc Maron, Philippe Petit, and Soylent May 10, 2014

This Week: Marc Maron gives etiquette AND time-travel advice… Graphic novelist Mimi Pond lists criminals, spies, and other bohemians … “Man On Wire” tightrope-walker Philippe Petit explores creative chaos… “The Descendants” author Kaui Hart Hemmings tells a new tale… load up on Kleenex ’cause here comes SADvertising… the history of the least respected trophy in […]

Episode 251: Kevin Spacey, Ruth Reichl, Todd Snider and Elephant May 03, 2014

This week: Stage & screen star Kevin Spacey channels Richard III (and Bill Clinton)… Food icon Ruth Reichl has us eating her words… folk-rocker Todd Snider meets Tony Bennett in an unlikely place… English pop duo Elephant come together to DJ a dance party… Pluto gets discovered, gets a name – and then gets demoted […]

The 2014 Icebreaker Episode Apr 25, 2014

On the occasion of our 250th podcast, we’re celebrating with this bonus mini-episode, compiling a year’s worth of our show-starting jokes into one convenient package. These tiny tales of stuff walking into bars, bad trips to the doctor and lightbulbs in need of changing come courtesy of guests like Jonah Hill, Carrie Brownstein, The Arctic […]

Episode 250: Daniel Radcliffe, Lars Ulrich, and Elizabeth Gilbert Apr 25, 2014

This week: Daniel Radcliffe wears a mask that is not for a role … Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich tells your roommate to turn that racket down … Elizabeth Gilbert (“Eat, Pray, Love”) sets the planets spinning … Cartoonist Jeff Smith lists favorite strips … Visiting the Candyland of vegetables … There is danger and allure at […]

The 2014 All-Icebreaker Special Apr 25, 2014

We just released the 250th episode of our show, so we’re celebrating with this bonus episode, containing a collection of party-winning jokes from our guests. These laughs (or groans) come courtesy of Jonah Hill, Carrie Brownstein, The Arctic Monkeys, Tavi Gevinson, Jim Jarmusch, Timothy Olyphant, and many more. “A Space, Man” – Hugh Bonneville aka […]

Episode 249: Scarlett Johansson, Billy Eichner, and Slint Apr 19, 2014

This week: Scarlett Johansson muses on ol’ blue eyes and earthly aliens… Comedian Billy Eichner takes etiquette to the streets … We catch up with 90′s alt stars Slint… A baseball game everyone wanted to lose… Terrifying Easter bunnies, brought to you by UCB co-founder Matt Walsh… Uncovering Uzbek cuisine … And, check your chins, […]

Episode 248: Jim Jarmusch, Lavender Country, and Horseradish Hazards Apr 11, 2014

This week: Filmmaker Jim Jarmusch sinks his teeth into a new genre and Tom Waits metaphors… Comedy writer Carol Leifer (“Seinfeld,” “SNL”) kicks off her shoes… Lavender Country brought gay rights to country … ”Review” star Andy Daly reviews other reviewers … Rock music insider Lisa Robinson shares her backstage stories (and takes credit for U2) […]

Episode 247: Amy Schumer, Errol Morris, & The War on Drugs Apr 04, 2014

This week: Comedienne Amy Schumer secretly enjoys tea and reading … Errol Morris explains Donald Rumsfeld’s problems with reality … Actress Judy Greer steps into the spotlight, for a change … The War on Drugs’ Adam Granduciel invites Bryan Ferry and Humphrey Bogart to his party … The best milk for your coffee, from cow or nut […]

Episode 246: Toni Collette, Bill Callahan, and Oil Balls Mar 27, 2014

This week: Toni Collette grabs the wheel … Rob Delaney takes us to a dark, dark chocolate place … Ben Schott shares speichelgleichmut … Texas singer-songwriter Bill Callahan remembers the Seventies … Celia Rivenbark smuggles in the sauce … Poetry among thieves … And savor-ish dough balls straight from Amsterdam.

Episode 245: Steve Martin, Stradivariuses, and Switchel Mar 22, 2014

This week: Steve Martin puts on a show as well as a concert … Emily Posts’ progeny pocket dial us … Switchel, a.k.a. Herman Melville’s fave energy drink… Filmmaker Davy Rothbart celebrates beautiful losers – in basketball and life … A British Invasion of radio pirates inspires a rum cocktail – naturally. Plus, a two million dollar puppy, mute violins, and […]

Episode 244: Wes Anderson, Dave Barry, and the Sweet Sounds of Real Estate Mar 15, 2014

This Week: Filmmaker Wes Anderson on stoves that witnessed history… Humorist Dave Barry takes aim at your etiquette questions… Real Estate (the band, not the biz sector) play party DJ… Lit phenom Helen Oyeyemi gazes into the mirror, mirror….And Noah Strycker opens up his bird-brain. Plus, Wild camels roaming Texas, the strangest cleanse ever, and Mac DeMarco’s […]

Episode 243: Pharrell, Carrie Brownstein & Fred Armisen, and Much MØ Mar 07, 2014

This week: Portlandia duo Carrie Brownstein and Fred Armisen open up about hot-tubs, underwear, and weddings … Music multi-hyphenate Pharrell Williams explains his ‘exotic rainbow’ of ‘Happy’ness … Danish electro-pop phenom Mø spins us a party playlist… author Cari Lynn tells the tale of a NoLa birthday party of ill-repute… How the grandest experiment in […]

Episode 242: Oscar Isaac, Mads Mikkelsen, and Vermouth Strikes Back Feb 28, 2014

Oscar Isaac, star of “Inside Llewyn Davis” and the new “In Secret,” talks travis pickin’ and tabbies … Mads Mikkelsen of Oscar-nominated Danish drama “The Hunt,” looks on the bright side of strife … Bestselling author Janet Evanovich tells us how to politely destroy a van … Vermouth that gin actually loves … Changing views […]

Episode 241: Stephen Malkmus, Doughnuts for Groughnups, and Oscar’s Finest “Act” Feb 21, 2014

This week: Stephen Malkmus on rock and roll fatherhood … Comedienne Annabelle Gurwitch makes an effort at etiquette …. Rebecca Mead revisits “Middlemarch” … Humble doughnuts get a sophisticated make-over … “The Act of Killing” is a difficult, fascinating, and important film to watch … Angel Olsen takes flight … Clown college admissions decline … […]

Episode 240: Jonah Hill, House of Cards and Luxury Toast Feb 14, 2014

This week: Jonah Hill’s search for the perfect coupling … Skip Lievsay explains how movies should sound … Life imitates board games imitating life (but not The Game of Life) … One mother’s love-hate relationship with a thousand plastic blocks … Getting what you pay for with luxury toast … The creator of “House of […]

Episode 239: Steve Coogan, Hugh Bonneville, B.J. Novak, and “Broad City” BFFs Feb 08, 2014

This week: Oscar nominee Steve Coogan (“Philomena,” this summer’s upcoming “The Trip to Italy” ) meditates on condiments and dramedies … “The Monuments Men” star Hugh Bonneville – a.k.a. Lord Grantham on “Downton Abbey” - minds his manors … Former “The Office” employee B.J. Novak introduces us to Wikipedia Brown, Boy Detective … The BFFs behind […]

Episode 238: Brie Larson, Baz Luhrmann, and Nomnomnom-enclature Jan 31, 2014

This week: “Short Term 12″ (just out on DVD and streaming) star Brie Larson fears oranges and lobsters … Baz Luhrmann talks movie music from Bee Gees to Gatsby … Author Juan Gabriel Vásquez shares a story of narco-trafficking and lost hippos … A Jimmy Buffet song brings indie band Dale Earnhardt Jr Jr to […]

Episode 237: Zoe Kazan, Jackie Collins, and Thinking Outside the Pizza Box Jan 25, 2014

Zoe Kazan, writer/star of “Ruby Sparks” and the new play “Trudy & Max in Love,” uses our show to save a chihuahua… bestselling author Jackie Collins kidnaps our etiquette segment… Actor Sam Harris remembers the little people on his rise to stardom… all about an American who was big in Japan… New software monitors if […]

Episode 236: Timothy Olyphant, Rosanne Cash, and Carl Hiaasen’s Pizza Surprise Jan 18, 2014

This week: “Justified” star Timothy Olyphant says he’s just the help… Etiquette from Carl Hiaasen, chronicler of bad Floridian behavior… Rosanne Cash takes a trip into music & literary history… You can’t win ‘em all – unless you’re the Harlem Globetrotters … Luxembourg gives it all away … Indie band Diane Coffee brews us a pot […]

Episode 235: Lupita Nyong’o, Gary Shteyngart, and Rust Belt Restos Jan 11, 2014

This week: Lupita Nyongo, Golden globe nominee for “12 Years A Slave” reveals the secret to happiness… Gary Shteyngart develops a crush on the Iron Lady … Beyond the tabloid tale of Tonya Harding … Pittsburgh, PA steels itself for an influx of foodies… Novelist Chang-Rae Lee’s dystopian vision of Baltimore … Night clothes with thinking caps […]

Episode 234: Best of 2013 Jan 04, 2014

This week, we ring in 2014 by looking BACK at our favorite interviews of 2013. (Because, yes, we’re punk like that.) You’ll hear “things you didn’t know” from Daniel Radcliffe, Margaret Atwood, and many more… Sounds big and small from reggae legend Jimmy Cliff and They Might be Giants… Writer Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat, Pray, Love) […]

Episode 233: Liev Schreiber, Wild Belle, and Cheese Drama Dec 27, 2013

This Week: We take a brief holiday break (and hope you’re able to do the same) and leave you with this choice episode from earlier in the year … Liev Schreiber (just nominated for a 2014 Golden Globe) talks canine engineering and bad answers … Choire Sicha, founder of The Awl, offers etiquette quips … Chicago […]

Episode 232: Jeremy Renner, Nancy Sinatra, and Billy Collins Dec 21, 2013

This Week: Jeremy Renner does the American Hustle… Nancy Sinatra on headphones and hair-poufs … Former Poet Laureate Billy Collins asks you to clean your room …Nick Lowe’s Eccentric Xmas Soundtrack … An inimitable, unpronounceable writer you’ve got to read… Italian food that might remind you of sushi … The precise moment when cringes become […]

Episode 231: Geoffrey Rush, and Aubrey Plaza & LeVar Burton LIVE Dec 14, 2013

Oscar-winning thespian Geoffrey Rush goes from burlesque to “The Book Thief”… “Parks and Recreation’s” Aubrey Plaza will not be mean on command … LeVar Burton, of “Reading Rainbow” fame, gets all Dirty Harry on a book “vandal”… We learn about a phone call that changed rock-and-roll history… rock critic and musician Joey Sweeney plays the […]

Episode 230: Oscar Isaac, Mads Mikkelsen, and Vermouth Strikes Back Dec 07, 2013

Oscar Isaac, star of the Coen Bros. “Inside Llewyn Davis,” talks travis pickin’ and tabbies… Int’l star Mads Mikkelsen, lately of Danish drama “The Hunt,” looks on the bright side of strife… Bestselling author Janet Evanovich tells us how to politely destroy a van… Changing views of Manhattan from the roof of the Chelsea Hotel … […]

Episode 229: The 2013 All-Food Episode Nov 29, 2013

Thanksgiving is kind of a national dinner party, so we wanted to bring our contribution: an ALL-FOOD EPISODE of the show. We know it comes a day late, but everybody loves leftovers, right? Lidia Bastianich on freedom food… Michael Pollan’s kosher barbecue … The Arctic Monkeys play a little dinner music … Eddie Huang vs. […]

Episode 228: Kevin Hart, Aisha Tyler, and Frozen Beer Nov 23, 2013

We reheat an old episode for this pre-Thanksgiving week, featuring, fittingly, an English take on American culture … Superstar comedian Kevin Hart growing an inch … Comic, writer, TV host and now etiquette expert Aisha Tyler steering listeners clear of video game hogs and sunshine nazis … Memoirist Ashley Cardiff on being haunted by Prince […]

Episode 227: Stephen Fry, Gail Simmons, and Daniel Boulud Nov 16, 2013

Brit wit Stephen Fry talks Shakespeare, takes on Turkey Day, and meets dead people… “Top Chef” judge Gail Simmons adjudicates your etiquette questions while growing the perfect sous chef… star chef Daniel Boulud sniffs out truffle treasure… “Medora” co-director Davy Rothbart declares victory for some beautiful losers… neuroscientist and skeptic Sam Harris cannot tell a […]

Episode 226: Toni Collette, Bill Callahan, and Oil Balls Nov 09, 2013

This week: Toni Collette grabs the wheel … Rob Delaney takes us to a dark, dark chocolate place … Ben Schott shares speichelgleichmut … Texas singer-songwriter Bill Callahan remembers the Seventies … Celia Rivenbark smuggles in the sauce … Poetry among thieves … And savor-ish dough balls straight from Amsterdam.

Episode 225: Jessica Chastain, Dave Barry, and Joy(ful) Division Nov 01, 2013

This week: one of our favorite episodes of 2013, in which Oscar-nominated actress Jessica Chastain of “Zero Dark Thirty” riffs on Pitt and pigs… Humorist Dave Barry offers insane advice… Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff plays dinnertime DJ… Joy Division’s Peter Hook tells the bright side of a dark band… We excavate the story of a […]

Episode 224: The 2013 All-Movie Episode Oct 26, 2013

This week it’s a special ALL MOVIE EPISODE! Starring Oscar-nominees Michelle Williams and David O. Russell … Also: Laura Dern re-examines David Lynch’s brain(s) … “Hunger Games” make-up artist Ve Neill lists a few fave transformations … Spike Lee plays matchmaker … Steven Spielberg incites a teenage riot … Dick Cavett teaches us “how to […]

Episode 223: Bob Odenkirk, Linda Thompson, and Peaches Teaches Oct 17, 2013

This week: Bob Odenkirk, comedy polymath & “Breaking Bad” breakout star, talks sketch and Saul… … Pop provacateur Peaches strips down etiquette… Folk-rock icon Linda thompson plays party DJ … Small island, big library … Food writer Nigel slater recalls pre-parm Britain … Behind the scenes with Johnny Carson … Leafy green humor … And […]

Episode 222: Dane DeHaan, Anna Calvi, and the Modernist Maestro Oct 11, 2013

This week: “Kill Your Darlings” star Dane DeHaan catches the Beats… Operatic indie rocker Anna Calvi DJs your next soiree… The Posts return with etiquette advice smokers will love… We’re schooled in design by the man who defined late 20th Century style… Old-school Hollywood honcho David Picker acts out for Woody Allen… Little Richard throws […]

Episode 221: Daniel Radcliffe, Lars Ulrich, and Elizabeth Gilbert Oct 04, 2013

This week: Daniel Radcliffe wears a mask that’s not for a role … Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich tells your roommate to turn that racket down … Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat, Pray, Love) sets the planets spinning … Cartoonist Jeff Smith lists favorite strips … Visiting the Candyland of vegetables … There is danger and allure at […]

Episode 221: Daniel Radcliffe, Lars Ulrich, and Elizabeth Gilbert Oct 04, 2013

This week: Daniel Radcliffe wears a mask that’s not for a role … Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich tells your roommate to turn that racket down … Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat, Pray, Love) sets the planets spinning … Cartoonist Jeff Smith lists favorite strips … Visiting the Candyland of vegetables … There is danger and allure at […]

Episode 220: Margaret Atwood, Gunn Culture, and Hulk Hogan: Hero Sep 28, 2013

This week: literary giant Margaret Atwood is prepared for mega-bears… Tim Gunn returns, just in time to save listeners from the ‘comfort trap’… guitarist Steve Gunn (no relation) spins a mellow party playlist… The author behind the bestselling “Jack Reacher” series lists toughs he loves… ”China, Illinois” Animator Brad Neely wants Hulk Hogan to eat him… […]

Episode 219: Colin Firth, Bobby Flay, and Molly Ringwald’s Vault Sep 20, 2013

This week: Oscar-winning actor Colin Firth explores masks and the mind… We grill star chef Bobby Flay on etiquette… Food writer Michael Pollan says we are because we cook…Molly Ringwald sets a new standard for musical standards… Jane Fonda’s headbands & home videos inspire a health-crazed cocktail… And Mike Wolfe of “American Pickers” strikes it […]

Episode 218: Jonathan Lethem, Alt-J, and the Fab Four’s Freda Sep 14, 2013

This week: Jonathan Lethem goes to New Jersey … Alt-J are kind of over triangles at this point … The Beatles’ secretary gives a peek into music history … Restaurant trends, from bars to bathrooms … Astronaut agriculture … Miss Manners is not telling you to lie, boast, and start rumbles … A tempest in […]

Episode 217: Arctic Monkeys, Van Jones, and Fashion Asylums Sep 07, 2013

This week: Britrock superstars Arctic Monkeys provide a party playlist (and a dessert recipe)… Van Jones plays with Crossfire… fashion maven Simon Doonan says the best outfit is the one your friend is already wearing … Northern Irish poet Nick Laird explains “Epithalamium”… VHS cassettes inspire eighties nostalgia … Bavarians build a giant rake for […]

Episode 216: Brie Larson, Baz Luhrmann, and Nomnomnom-enclature Aug 31, 2013

This week: “Short Term 12″ star Brie Larson fears oranges & lobsters… Baz Luhrmann talks movie music from Bee Gees to Gatsby… author Juan Gabriel Vásquez shares a story of narco-trafficking and lost hippos… A Jimmy Buffet song brings indie band Dale Earnhardt Jr Jr to tears… We learn about the real-life divas who inspired […]

Episode 215: Eva Mendes, Julia Sweeney, and Blushing Stomachs Aug 24, 2013

This week: One of our favorite episodes! Eva Mendes decodes “The Place Beyond the Pines” (which just came out on DVD) and hieroglyphics… Writer and “SNL” vet Julia Sweeney answers your etiquette questions from the fetal position… New Orleans indie rockers Generationals spin a sweet-and-sour soundtrack… Science writer Mary Roach takes us on a field […]

Episode 214: David Oyelowo, Ricky Skaggs, and a Gun for Breakfast Aug 16, 2013

This week: Actor David Oyelowo becomes sort of a scholar … Bluegrass musician Ricky Skaggs on sushi and superfreaks … Piper Kerman reveals the reality behind bars … Kurt Braunohler finds odd comedy in everyday things … MTV veejay Kennedy remembers the nineties and Nine Inch Nails … Shooting a cannon of puffery … Novel […]

Episode 213: Lisa Kudrow, Franz Ferdinand, and Bug Bars Aug 10, 2013

This week: Lisa Kudrow takes a stab at radio therapy … Franz Ferdinand’s Alex Kapranos plants an orchard … Anna Gunn of “Breaking Bad” breaks out a list of broken couples… We take an inside look at President Nixon, via home movies … Crickets invade a snack near you … Rob Sheffield is a karaoke cowboy […]

Episode 212: Liev Schrieber, Wild Belle, and Cheese Drama Aug 03, 2013

This week: Liev Schrieber on canine engineering and bad answers… Choire Sicha, founder of The Awl, offers etiquette quips… Breakout Chicago band Wild Belle bring us the world, on a platter of sound… A tale of cheese and blood feuds in the Spanish countryside… Novelist David Gilbert shares a story of absent fathers, from his […]

Episode 211: Laura Dern, Billy Bragg, and Bite-Sized Giants Jul 27, 2013

This week: We nominate an episode from earlier this year for your repeat consideration. “Enlightened” actress Laura Dern (who just picked up an Emmy nom) on brains and Baio … Folk-rocker Billy Bragg wins hearts and minds in our etiquette segment … They Might Be Giants list tiny gems … We toast the first man(nequin!) […]

Episode 210: Andrew Bujalski, Andrea Martin, and Fishy Business Jul 20, 2013

This week: pioneering indie filmmaker Andrew Bujalski plays “Computer Chess” and speaks up about mumblecore… SCTV alum and Tony-winner Andrea Martin gets car-jacked, politely… Debut novelist Gabriel Roth debuts a list of debuts… “Blackfish” director Gabriela Cowperthwaite plunges into controversy… and NYC’s Russ & Daughters celebrate herring season by teaching Brendan to eat like a marine […]

Episode 209: Herb Alpert, Chuck Klosterman, and Big Stars Jul 12, 2013

This week: Writer Chuck Klosterman grapples with villains… Music legend Herb Alpert grapples with your etiquette questions… Comedian Tig Notaro learns a lesson after losing her wisdom teeth… Filmmaker Drew DiNicola tells us why cult rockers Big Star never quite lived up to their name… Documentary filmmaker Lucy Walker does call it a comeback… The Frenchman behind the bikini […]

Episode 208: Kevin Hart, Aisha Tyler, and Frozen Beer Jul 06, 2013

This week: Superstar comedian Kevin Hart grows an inch … Comic, writer, TV host and — now– etiquette expert Aisha Tyler steers listeners clear of video game hogs and sunshine nazis… UK scholar Terry Eagleton tells us what Brits really think of Americans… Memoirist Ashley Cardiff is haunted by Prince… The Spinto Band present a […]

Episode 207: Natalie Cole, Ralph Nader, and Rogue Soundwaves Jun 29, 2013

This week: Natalie Cole sings en Espanol … Activist Ralph Nader gives etiquette advice and restaurant recommendations … Bestselling novelist Curtis Sittenfeld goes from preppy to psychic … Rogue Wave’s playlist washes over us … How National Lampoon became the center of the comedy universe … The history of the typewriter … The most excruciating […]

Episode 206: Greta Gerwig, Questlove, and Drinkable Spam Jun 20, 2013

This week: We ride the rerun ship back in time, for an episode that turns out to be pretty prescient … Francis Ha star Greta Gerwig on naturalism vs. quirk … The Roots’ Questlove on food … Author Carl Hiaasen gives us a reality check … Kathy Griffin, queen of misbehavior, offers etiquette advice… The […]

Episode 205: Sofia Coppola, Jonathan Goldstein, Zombies and blooood Jun 13, 2013

This week: Filmmaker Sofia Coppola talks about “The Bling Ring” and growing up in an Apocalypse … Humorist and “Wiretap” host Jonathan Goldstein takes his dad for a beer of rebellion … It’s the time of the season for a party playlist from The Zombies … Lidia Bastianich dishes out food etiquette and makes a […]

Episode 204: Ellen Page, Colum McCann, and Miraculous Fruits Jun 07, 2013

This week: Actress Ellen Page (The East) on saving the planet and playing with dolls… National Book Award winner Colum McCann takes us on a Transatlantic trip…Laura Osnes – Tony-nominated Cinderella on Broadway – shares her favorite rags-to-riches stories… Rico stuffs himself with stuffies… Etiquette advice to make air travel a tiny bit more comfortable… […]

Episode 203: Dan Savage, Jessica Walter, and the Kings of Summer May 30, 2013

This week: Sex writer Dan Savage on cheating and snowboarding… Actress Jessica Walter of Arrested Development plays nice for etiquette… Doo-wop legend Kenny Vance on closing for the Rolling Stones… The director of indie gem The Kings of Summer warms us up for the season… Learn the history of Pac-Man, then gobble up a pizza-themed […]

Episode 202: Andrea Riesborough, Fitz and the Tantrums, and Saving Italy May 24, 2013

This week: Andrea Riesborough lets us in on a mystery… Fitz and the Tantrums spins a retro party playlist… Novelist Joanna Hershon starts off the summer in a 1960s yacht club… Italian pork is washing up on American shores – but it’s not the only kind of treasure from Lo Stivale… Etiquette from the Posts… […]

Episode 201: James Franco, Paul Theroux, and a Cowardly Display May 17, 2013

This week: We look back to one of our favorite episodes, in which actor/polymath James Franco rebels against beds… Preeminent travel writer Paul Theroux offers etiquette advice to globetrotters (and public radio hosts)… Nashville raconteur Todd Snider tells of his brush with NASCAR fame… The NY Public Library celebrates Noel Coward… and Hollywood’s top auctioneer […]

Our Bicentennial All-Icebreaker Episode May 11, 2013

To celebrate the release of our 200th podcast, here’s our bicentennial All-Icebreaker show. Dozens of jokes culled from the last two years’ worth of DPDs, as told by such luminaries as James Franco, Bryan Cranston, Alison Pill, the band Fun., and many more. Some are funny, most are not. But there are definitely a lot […]

Episode 200: Noah Baumbach, David Alan Grier, Temple Grandin, and Kids Comix May 10, 2013

This week: Filmmaker Noah Baumbach on the new New York… David Alan Grier answers (most of) your etiquette questions… Autism pioneer Temple Grandin diagnoses Mr. Spock… Travel writer Matt Gross goes to the edge… “Love & rockets” co-creator Gilbert Hernandez on ’60s comics that were super, sans superheroes… Why guilt is good (for groceries)… and […]

Episode 199: Michael Shannon, Paul Theroux, and Hannibal’s Homies May 03, 2013

This week: Actor Michael Shannon (“The Iceman”) revisits his Wobegon days… Hugh Dancy of TV’s “Hannibal” lists a few good baddies… Acclaimed travel writer Paul Theroux on a place he won’t be heading back to… “Daily Show” co-creator Lizz Winstead grins and bares it … San Fran rocker Mikal Cronin serves up soundtrack… Biscuits on […]

Episode 198: Colin Firth, Bobby Flay, and Molly Ringwald’s Vault Apr 26, 2013

This week: Oscar-winning actor Colin Firth explores masks and the mind… We grill star chef Bobby Flay on etiquette… Food writer Michael Pollan says we are because we cook…Molly Ringwald sets a new standard for musical standards… Jane Fonda’s headbands & home videos inspire a health-crazed cocktail… And Mike Wolfe of “American Pickers” strikes it […]

Episode 197: Jamie Foxx, Macklemore, and Gollum’s Grandparents Apr 18, 2013

This week: Oscar-winner Jamie Foxx plays Django and table tennis… JEOPARDY! champ Ken Jennings answers our *etiquette* questions (minus the buzzer)… “Thrift Shop” rap stars Macklemore & Ryan Lewis spin a playful party playlist… “The Splendid Table’s” Lynne Rosetto-Kasper is haunted by the ghost of Christmas-party past… “The Hobbit” FX mastermind Joe Letteri traces Gollum’s family tree back to Sherlock Holmes… And speaking of which, Rico learns to think like Sherlock Holmes. Plus: Brazilian food rising, monkeys with no rhythm, and zen dogs.

Episode 195: Eva Mendes, Julia Sweeney, and Blushing Stomachs Apr 04, 2013

This week: Actress Eva Mendes decodes her new film – and hieroglyphics… Writer and “SNL” vet Julia Sweeney answers your etiquette questions from the fetal position… New Orleans indie rockers Generationals spin a sweet-and-sour soundtrack… Science writer Mary Roach (“Stiff,” the new “Gulp”) takes us on a field trip down the alimentary canal… Twitter queen Kelly Oxford tiptoes into David Copperfield’s private lair… And Wrigley’s Gum inspires a cocktail that WON’T lose its flavor. Plus, salt mines in the sky, self-hating jokes, and a new Rogue Wave.

Episode 194: Taiye Selasi, Andy Cohen, and Alt-J’s Pagan Playlist Mar 29, 2013

This week: TV personality Andy Cohen – the man who launched 1,000 “Real Housewives” – tells us how to behave… Rising literary star Taiye Selasi on making novels and dresses… British prog-rock phenoms Alt-J throw a party in the woods… Satirist Sam Lipsyte on the joys of fatherhood… We tiptoe into “Room 237,” a film about “The Shining”‘s fanatical following… And Rico tastes the secret of panuchos. Plus, a drink born from cold fusion, new music from Mikal Cronin, and a monstrous joke.

Episode 193: Harmony Korine, Chris O’Dowd, and Ramen Ravioli Mar 21, 2013

This week: Filmmaker Harmony Korine on Cassevetes and mime contests… Chris O’Dowd, star of “Bridesmaids” and now “The Sapphires,” on sudden successes… Marisa Silver develops an iconic photo into a novel… Noodling around with Ramen and Ravioli…The history of the Stanley Cup inspires a drink (with no ice!)…The Posts address door jams and outer-underwear…Your Spring fashion preview, featuring trendy Hamburglars…Plus, a new tune from “Vampire Weekend,” KFC’s poetry campaign, and a nuclear-powered joke.

Episode 192: Anna Kendrick, Kevin Nealon, and the Perks of Being a Pittsburgher Mar 15, 2013

This Week: Oscar-nominated actress Anna Kendrick sings of adorkability… “Weeds”/SNL alum Kevin Nealon blesses us with etiquette advice…”The Perks of Being a Wallflower” creator Stephen Chbosky talks of time and place… Okkervil River runs through a party soundtrack… here comes the (terrorist) bride… And the Primanti Sandwich goes national. Plus: We witness the birth of a clean machine, shine a light on art, and learn the history of comedy.

Episode 191: Laura Dern, Billy Bragg, and Bite-Sized Giants Mar 08, 2013

This week: “Enlightened” actress Laura Dern on brains and Baio… Folk-rocker Billy Bragg wins hearts and minds in our etiquette segment… They Might Be Giants list tiny gems… We toast the first man(nequin!) in space… The story behind SXSW, as told by the festival’s co-founder… Indie musician Tracey Thorn finds her voice… Plus, build-your-own hotels, cocktails by the barrel-ful, Side of the Road music, and lots more.

Episode 190: Matthew Goode, Dick Cavett, and Tiki Talk Feb 28, 2013

This Week: “Stoker” star Matthew Goode on being a creepy Uncle and devoted Dad… Talk show legend Dick Cavett tells us how to ‘Hitchcock’… Essayist Michelle Orange undergoes a cinematic identity crisis… Ryan Quincy, creator of TV’s “Out There,” comes of age… Indie darlings Adam Green and Binki Shapiro turn scraps and metal into a dinner party soundtrack… How to run away with the circus… And Rico pays his last respects to a Tiki landmark… Plus, fly jokes, upside-downers, and woolly drinks.

Episode 189: David France, Jackie Collins, and Vampire Lemonade Feb 22, 2013

This week: Oscar-nominated filmmaker David France on plagues and platforms… Pulitzer-finalist Karen Russell sinks her teeth into a new story collection… Bestseller queen Jackie Collins tells you how to (mis)behave… Alex Karpovsky (“Girls”) goes meta… We dip into chip history… Why religion matters to atheists… Plus Graveyard humor, cheating via satellite, and “Entertainment” provided by Phoenix.

Episode 187: Miguel, Rachel Dratch, and Seduction Instruction Feb 07, 2013

This week: R&B sensation (and multiple Grammy-nominee) Miguel spells “wah!”… SNL alum Rachel Dratch lists her favorite lovahhs… “Thomas Jefferson” makes his second inaugural etiquette address… Blues legend Charlie Musselwhite tells a high-flying tale about Muddy Waters… Author Betsy Prioleau defends ladies’ men… Brendan learns not to confuse ‘soulful’ with ‘healthful’… And Aussie psych-band Pond rocks a Giant Tortoise. Plus: a bomb of a cocktail from the Georgia coast, fun with trigonometry, and a library of misfit books.

Episode 186: Jessica Chastain, Dave Barry, Jimmy Cliff, and Joy(ful) Division Feb 01, 2013

This week: Oscar-nominated actress Jessica Chastain, of “Zero Dark Thirty” on Pitt and pigs … Insane advice from humorist Dave Barry…Joy Division’s Peter Hook tells the bright side of a dark band…A Super Bowl Menu, minus meat?!…We excavate the story of a crown jewel, then drink a sparkling cocktail…Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff plays dinnertime DJ… Plus, flying goats, contagious laughter, and the spider of the year.

Episode 185: William H. Macy, Not Sauce, and the Original Animal Jan 24, 2013

This week: This week: “Shameless” star William H. Macy has fun with despicable… Beloved singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith spins a party playlist… NYTimes cocktail columnist Rosie Schaap teaches proper bar behavior… Rico uncovers a sriracha scam… Gonzo filmmaker Jay Bulger (“Beware of Mr. Baker”) dives into the messy life of drummer Ginger Baker… And food phenom Eddie Huang (“Fresh Off the Boat”) tells us about his first ‘All-American’ dinner… Plus, non-smoking women, Tim Burton on clubbing, and asteroids full of riches.

Episode 184: Michael Apted, Sundancing, and Coaster Cocktails Jan 17, 2013

This week: Filmmaker Michael Apted (“7 Up”) talks about renewing his landmark documentary series… Writer Manuel Gonzales tells us how NOT to bury a body…Etiquette all-stars Lizzie and Dan Post on the protocol of the communal newspaper bin… Sundance Fest director John Cooper shares some behind-the-screens stories… Britain’s latest food fad is (wait for it) American food?!… Josh Bearman – whose article inspired the film “Argo” – tells three other film-worthy tales… Plus, Drew’s brews, Cold War Kids, and the birth of the roller coaster.

Episode 183: David O. Russell, George Saunders, and Experiments with Cale Jan 10, 2013

This week: Director David O. Russell (“Silver Linings Playbook,” “The Fighter”) steals the show…The Velvet Underground’s John Cale experiments with a list… Writer George Saunders weighs man purses and messenger bags…Comedian Nick Kroll (“Kroll Show”) tries to mix Oktoberfest and Yom Kippur – then has to flee Germany…We learn about the birth of Texas Oil Boom, and drink a slick cocktail…And there’s a new French dessert to swoon over…Plus, brilliant hatchet jobs, a viola-nt joke, and a trippy track from Foxygen.

Episode 182: The Best of 2012 Jan 03, 2013

This week, a look back at our best moments of 2012: Jon Hamm dives into dark matter… Ed Asner answers your etiquette questions (and his cellphone)… We toast a historic Niagara fall… Folk rock icon Rodriguez rises from the dead… Alison Pill (“The Newsroom”) lists her favorite behind-the-scenes stories… Ramblin’ man Todd Snider recalls his brush with Nascar celebrity… And country singer Iris DeMent takes us home with a dinner party soundtrack…Plus “pretzel dumplings,” lucky underwear, and an OCD joke from James Franco.

Episode 181: Patti Smith, Bryan Cranston, and Drinkable Shrubs Dec 28, 2012

This week: Punk icon Patti Smith dreams of little black dresses… “Breaking Bad’s” Bryan Cranston builds green houses, not meth labs… Zosia Mamet (Girls, Mad Men) picks other ‘against-type’ actors… we inhale the tale of the original “smoke-filled room”… and novelist Nathaniel Rich finds a rhino with all the answers. Plus: drinkable shrubs, a new track from Odd Future’s Frank Ocean, and the fastest road in the USA.

Episode 180: Jamie Foxx, Macklemore, and Gollum’s Grandparents Dec 20, 2012

This Week: Oscar-winner Jamie Foxx plays Django and table tennis… JEOPARDY! champ Ken Jennings answers our *etiquette* questions (minus the buzzer)… “Thrift Shop” rap stars Macklemore & Ryan Lewis spin a playful party playlist… “The Splendid Table’s” Lynne Rosetto-Kasper is haunted by the ghost of Christmas-party past… “The Hobbit” FX mastermind Joe Letteri traces Gollum’s family tree back to Sherlock Holmes… And speaking of which, Rico learns to think like Sherlock Holmes. Plus: Brazilian food rising, monkeys with no rhythm, and zen dogs.

Episode 179: Beck, Modern Family Values, and Love’s Songs Dec 13, 2012

This week: Pop star Beck Hansen’s new album looks great on paper… Actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson of “Modern Family” offers etiquette advice… Darlene Love, singer of Xmas soul classic “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),” lists non-awful yuletide tunes… We sing the praises of Leonard’s Cohen’s “Hallelujah”… Top chefs debate if food should come with footnotes… and we learn how “Gone With The Wind” brought Jimmy Carter and MLK together. Plus: paper beats air, a nutty joke, and Destiny’s *other* child.

Episode 178: Fred Armisen, Fishy Business, and Kinky Etiquette Dec 06, 2012

This week, “Portlandia’s” Fred Armisen cops to working blue… legendary satirist/musician/Governor-to-be Kinky Friedman serves up Texas-sized etiquette tips… rockstar classical organist Cameron Carpenter thinks outside the Bach box… We toast an infamous Alabama pest… Fish fraud!… And “Kumare” documentarian Vikram Gandhi teaches you how to become a guru. Plus, a ‘Fun.’ joke, Da Vinci Code: Rhode Island, and your letters… all the way from Kyrgyzstan.

Episode 177: Tony Hawk, Benh Zeitlin & Incorrigible Ethels Nov 30, 2012

This week: Skateboarding legend Tony Hawk does some extreme couchsurfing… “Beasts of the Southern Wild” director Benh Zeitlin on axe-painting… Controversy-courting essayist Katie Roiphe offers advice… author Susanna Moore dines in wartime Berlin… Brendan learns the difference between jerks and Ethels… and SF band Thao & The Get Down Stay Down give us a tune that gets you up, keep you up. Plus the history of a New-Wave Band Aid, the science of Xmas music, and sherry wine: it’s not just for Grandmas anymore.

Episode 176: The All-Food Episode Nov 20, 2012

This week: It’s an ALL-FOOD episode stuffed with tasty goodness. Gail Simmons of TV’s “Top Chef” survives internship hell and gets her ‘Angel’ wings…We reheat the history of the microwave, then get zapped with a custom cocktail…Fran Lebowitz and other notables share unforgettable mealtime memories…A free-range serving of The New Yorker’s Adam Gopnik… Just in time for Turkey Day, Rico heads to Istanbul to taste some delights… Chef/Memoirist Gabrielle Hamilton on sweetbreads and sweet success…And the War on Drugs supply a soundtrack for your next feast. Plus, History’s forgotten utensil (NOT the spork!), Ireland’s trendiest import, and a meaty joke from actress Alison Pill.

Episode 175: Wyatt Cenac, Tilly and the Wall, and Kubrick’s Kitties Nov 15, 2012

This week: “The Daily Show”‘s Wyatt Cenac gives us some ‘facts’ to chew on… “Life of Pi” author Yann Martel takes us on his favorite literary journeys…’Classic dining’ makes a comeback…A soundtrack from Tilly and the Wall to set the mood… How NOT to feign interest in arthouse cinema… We pay tribute to dunker-in-chief Daryl Dawkins a.k.a. Chocolate Thunder… Stanley Kubrick gets a close-up…Plus, Turkey Day etiquette, flying cellos, and silly headlines.

Episode 174: Jon Ronson, Eric Idle, and Flying Leotards Nov 08, 2012

This Week: Eric Idle of “Monty Python” and “Spamalot” leads us in a singalong… Writer Jon Ronson plays sidekick to a real-life superhero…Folk icon Iris DeMent shares a homey dinner party soundtrack…Adam Pally of TV’s “Happy Endings” revisits his rocky beginnings…And kale invades Thanksgiving…. Plus, the birth of the leotard, the “King” of new music, and video games NOT named “Halo.”

Episode 173: The All-Book Episode Nov 02, 2012

This week: It’s our first ever ALL-BOOK episode – a whole hour of fun with literary luminaries. MacArthur ‘Genius’ Junot Diaz probes the mind of a young cheater…LeVar Burton – beloved host of “Reading Rainbow” – offers life advice for book borrowers… British heavyweight Martin Amis lets his dogs out… And indie queen Miranda July tells us about a print relic… Plus, fun footnotes from T.C. Boyle, YA phenom Leigh Bardugo, and a guy named Shakespeare.

Episode 172: Stephin Merritt, Vengeance Eating, and Alka-hol Oct 26, 2012

This week: Stephin Merritt’s attraction to love… Actress Amy Brenneman adjudicates listener etiquette… A vengeful lunch with Joel Stein… an Alkaholic drink… Neil deGrasse Tyson defends space… Bill Plympton’s favorite animation… and a 3-song prescription from Dr. Dog. Plus: Aggie yells, a Dinner Party Timeout, and a cross-word joke from singer Cate le Bon.

Episode 171: Ben Gibbard, Jens Lekman, and Fake Presidents Oct 18, 2012

This week: Ben Gibbard, of the band Death Cab For Cutie, goes solo… Political comedian W. Kamau Bell lists his favorite fake presidents… Swedish rocker Jens Lekman tells of his fake almost-marriage… Advice for debate-watchers and couch-crashers from the Emily Post Institute kids… Top chef Michale Cimarusti makes a big deal about little fishes… and John Paul Getty III’s ear-ie kidnapping. Plus: a new track from Kanye West, the science of disgusting, and trampolines ‘cross the Seine.

Episode 170: Martin McDonagh, Ed Asner, and Real American Cheese Oct 11, 2012

This week: Playwright & “Seven Psychopaths” filmmaker Martin McDonagh laughs in the face of death… TV legend Ed Asner calls us out… Mary Elizabeth Winstead lists some sobering cinema… ’5 under 35′ honoree Justin Torres reads from his celebrated novella… New Yorker critic David Denby divines film’s future… and Brendan seeks the *real* American cheese. Plus, a historic Niagara fall, a crushed dinosaur dream, and a wild new track from Tame Impala.

Episode 169: Anna Kendrick, Kevin Nealon, and the Perks of Being a Pittsburgher Oct 05, 2012

This Week: Oscar-nominated actress Anna Kendrick sings of adorkability… “Weeds”/SNL alum Kevin Nealon blesses us with etiquette advice…”The Perks of Being a Wallflower” creator Stephen Chbosky talks of time and place… Okkervil River runs through a party soundtrack… here comes the (terrorist) bride… And the Primanti Sandwich goes national. Plus: We witness the birth of a clean machine, shine a light on art, and learn the history of comedy.

Episode 168: Tim Gunn, Rian Johnson, and Salman Rushdie Sep 27, 2012

This week, “Looper” director Rian Johnson rolls the bones… “Project Runway’s” Tim Gunn dresses down America for dressing down… Salman Rushdie talks fatwas and fake hair… famed author Sherman Alexie makes a Protest… A “Simpsons” writer’s favorite odd adaptations… And NYTimes photographer Todd Selby turns his camera on cooks. Plus: How corn helped thaw the cold war, and the official “best word ever.”

Episode 167: Martin Amis, Divine Comedies, and the Mother of Bad Ideas Sep 20, 2012

This week, literary luminary Martin Amis lets the dogs out… Top Chef Susan Feniger celebrates the New Year… satirist Simon Rich lists divine comedies… San Fran band The Fresh and Onlys serve up a sweet soundtrack… The Posts return to explain the art of good goodbyes… and fashion editor Diana Vreeland gets her close-up. Plus, skimming stones, rolling cows, and the most naive narrator in the world.

Episode 166: Anjelica Huston, Doomsday Planes, and Things about Chicken Wings Sep 14, 2012

This week: We revisit one of our favorite episodes….Actress Anjelica Huston reveals her secret good-luck charm … Writer-provocateur Caitlin Flanagan blends etiquette, therapy, and cake… “The Artist’s” James Cromwell talks quiet… Chickens with four wings… Greeks invade Britain… We toast the end of the world… A poem from imprisoned dissident Liu Xiaobo… Plus, nurture-over-nature, and a Major find from the Asteroids Galaxy Tour.

Episode 165: Junot Diaz, One-Shot Wonders, and Orange Wine Sep 06, 2012

This week, Pulitzer-winning author Junot Diaz bares the soul of a cheater… Actress Emily Blunt explains dolphin romance… Music video director Natasha Pincus picks some one-shot wonders… We toast the peaceful fallout from the only wartime aerial bombing of mainland USA… Financial etiquette from Marketplace’s Paddy Hirsch… Orange vintages add color to wine stores… And the unsung heroes of Fall TV. Plus: a new Grizzly Bear track, laffs from artist Wayne White, and lap dances in the high courts.

Episode 164: Marjane Satrapi, Fran Lebowitz, and Pizza Brains Aug 30, 2012

This Week: “Persepolis” author/filmmaker Marjane Satrapi laughs in the face of death… satirist Fran Lebowitz plays Nanny to America… author Emma Straub narrates a Hollywood fable… multi-Oscar-winner Ve Neill makes up a Makeup list… and Brendan inhales info about air. Plus, a visit to Philly’s Pizza Museum, the high-cost of Tsarist-era beards, how to lose *yourself*, and indierockers Nude Beach expose their dinner party playlist.

Episode 163: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Molly Ringwald, and Takis Aug 23, 2012

This Week: Actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt gets physical and speaks French… Molly Ringwald offers etiquette advice for misfits and moms…The birth of swing music… Novelist Jonathan Evison updates Facebook’s profiles… David Wax Museum shares a list that cuts to the bone… We hear from a young reporter who was on the cutting edge of the Takis craze… and Rico drinks bees. Plus: The latest in sleep science, and a dreamy new track from rocker Ariel Pink.

Episode 162: Gary Oldman, Top Chef: Etiquette, and Instant History Aug 14, 2012

This week: We revisit one of our favorite episodes, from December 2011…Gary Oldman reflects on his Oscar-nominated role as iconic spy George Smiley… Top Chef’s Gail Simmons spills some sweet and saucy etiquette tips… Artist/Musician Terry Allen uncovers 3 lost gems… We toast the instant replay (twice)… Brendan seeks gluten-free-free food… and author Lou Beach tells 6 stories with 420 characters. Plus, a crash course in video games, a joke from Brit-com phenom Stephen Merchant, and a tune from Chairlift.

Episode 161: Gustavo Dudamel, Rob Corddry, and Terms of Service Aug 09, 2012

This week: Classical music superstar Gustavo Dudamel conducts an interview… “Children’s Hospital” creator/star Rob Corddry prescribes etiquette advice… “Schott’s Miscellany” author Ben Schott on food service slang… author John Brandon perks up his wolf ears… “Darth Vader and Son” cartoonist Jeffrey Brown lists some soulful sci-fi… and rocker King Tuff suggests a party playlist. Plus: Debbie Millman on design, Madeleine Brand gets dreamy, and the uplifting history of the escalator.

Episode 160: Rashida Jones, LeVar Burton, and Parody Picks Aug 02, 2012

This Week: Actress Rashida Jones plays matchmaker… “Reading Rainbow”‘s LeVar Burton wields a knife – with discernment… Comic Paul Scheer’s parody picks… Les Savy Fav bassist Syd Butler talks hockey, Joy division and secret identities… We speak — and drink — Esperanto… author Ariel S. Winter channels 3 crime-lit legends… and Rico eats the best Pop Tart ever. Plus: the death of chivalry and a pop lullaby from The Babies.

Episode 159: Zoe Kazan, Passion Pit and New Wave Fish Sandwiches Jul 27, 2012

This week: Actor/writer Zoe Kazan makes a psychic connection… Passion Pit’s Michael Angelakos provides the soundtrack for a party for two… Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson shares the gold medal’s shocking secret… Author Charles Yu feels your pain… Brendan catches the fish sandwich wave… and we travel back in time with bestselling essayist Sloane Crosley. Plus: Snoop Lion, the birth of Bugs Bunny, and dudes! — the Posts are back with etiquette tips.

Episode 158: Simon Amstell, Rodriguez, and Dyn-o-mite Tips Jul 19, 2012

This week: British comedy wunderkind Simon Amstell sings America’s praises…Musician and archivist Michael Feinstein adds to the Great American Songbook… Folk-rock legend Rodriguez rises from the dead… Jimmie “DY-NO-MITE” Walker blows up etiquette… and Rico samples ceviche from “the new Tuscany” (it’s in Mexico). Plus: mammoth cheeses, shifting to manual transmission, and a globe-hopping soundtrack from The Antlers.

Episode 157: Marcus Samuelsson, Cheryl Strayed, and (Breaking) Bad Romances Jul 12, 2012

This week, star chef Marcus Samuelsson dishes on his tough-but-tender training… WILD author Cheryl Strayed (aka “Dear Sugar”) offers free therapy… Anna Gunn of “Breaking Bad” lists her favorite fictional dysfunctionals… Author Chris Cleave spins gold from Olympic competition… We toast Warhol with a pop-art cocktail… and Woody Guthrie turns 100. Plus: vacationing with Hemingway, author Karen Thompson Walker’s slow fiction, and new music from the Dirty Projectors.

Episode 156: Wim Wenders, Liszt Lists, and Live Long and Proper Jul 06, 2012

This week: An encore broadcast of one of our favorite shows! Director Wim Wenders speaks body language… Star Trek’s George Takei takes etiquette to warp factor five…A list about Liszt, from world-renowned pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet…Kathleen Turner’s fiery new role…Third Wave Coffee… Existential humor… And finally, we learn how to play dead from a corpse – and then how to come back to life from Guided By Voices.

Episode 155: The All-Movie Episode Jun 28, 2012

This week, it’s our first ever ALL-MOVIE EPISODE – a blockbuster hour of our favorite film-centric interviews, starring John C. Reilly, Miranda July, Terry Gilliam and more: Val Kilmer plays Mark Twain playing an etiquette expert… Jackie Collins invites us to a Hollywood party… author Jonathan Lethem casts Drew Barrymore in his surreal fiction… One of cinema’s greatest sound designers lists some of cinema’s greatest sounds… and Michel Hazanavicius, Oscar-winning director of “The Artist,” *doesn’t* enjoy the silence. Plus: rockers Howlin’ Rain suggest the most unlikely dinner party soundtrack ever, and Molly Ringwald barks like a dog.

Episode 154: Benh Zeitlin, All-American Etiquette, and the Automat Jun 21, 2012

This week: Filmmaker Benh Zeitlin (“Beasts of the Southern Wild”) paints with an axe… Michael Ian Black and Meghan McCain swear they can answer your etiquette questions peacefully… Actress Alison Pill, of Aaron Sorkin’s new show “The Newsroom,” takes us behind-the-scenes… New Yorker receptionist Janet Groth reflects on (almost) being Mrs. John Berryman… Lunching at the ‘Automat’…Plus, doubled data, a summer fashion preview, and a soundtrack from playful pop band Micachu and the Shapes.

Episode 153: Patti Smith, Bryan Cranston, and Drinkable Shrubs Jun 14, 2012

This week: Punk icon Patti Smith dreams of little black dresses… “Breaking Bad’s” Bryan Cranston builds green houses, not meth labs… Zosia Mamet (Girls, Mad Men) picks other ‘against-type’ actors… we inhale the tale of the original “smoke-filled room”… and novelist Nathaniel Rich finds a rhino with all the answers. Plus: drinkable shrubs, a new track from Odd Future’s Frank Ocean, and the fastest road in the USA.

Episode 152: Stephen Merchant, Demon Children, and The War on Drugs Jun 08, 2012

This week: We revisit one of our favorite episodes…”The Office” co-creator Stephen Merchant spars with Brendan… fashion guru Simon Doonan advocates mullets… humorists Dave Barry & Alan Zweibel (attempt to) read their epic epilogue… The soundtrack of The War on Drugs… Artist Chris Burden’s slot-cars on steroids… And Rico digs into Frito Pie. Plus: silent senators, illin’ crosswords, and far-out jokes.

Episode 151: Michael Apted, Buddy Guy, and Defordometrics May 31, 2012

This week: Director Michael Apted on “56 Up” — the new installment of one of the greatest film series ever… Sportswriting legend Frank Deford tackles your etiquette questions… Guitar master Buddy Guy revisits his Louisiana roots… author Leigh Bardugo lists her favorite fictional worlds… A filmmaking duo plug in to the world of indie video games… and a sweet roll gets a savory twist on Manhattan’s High Line. Plus: We fear the food world’s revolutionary new robot, and spin a Bad Thing from Vermont rocker King Tuff.

Episode 150: James Franco, Paul Theroux, and a Cowardly Display May 24, 2012

This week: Actor/polymath James Franco rebels against beds… Preeminent travel writer Paul Theroux offers etiquette advice to globetrotters (and public radio hosts)… Nashville raconteur Todd Snider tells of his brush with NASCAR fame… The NY Public Library remembers Noel Coward… and Hollywood’s top auctioneer remembers memorabilia. Plus: We learn the history of blue jeans, hear a new Twin shadow tune, and listen to some (Guinness) rock records.

Episode 149: Richard Linklater, Christopher Buckley, and Independent Spirits May 17, 2012

This week: Acclaimed filmmaker Richard Linklater takes us behind “the Pine Curtain”… Satirist Christopher Buckley on international (etiquette) relations… Actor Rich Sommer goes Mad about board games… Brooklyn band Violens cues up a dinner party soundtrack… Brendan sips indie spirits… We toast Spider-Dan’s [sic] epic climb… Three hysterical histories… Plus, sexy literary hoaxes, humor from troubadour Todd Snider, and a listener letter – from a dolphin.

Episode 148: Santigold, Manly Manners and a Pilgrim’s Process May 10, 2012

This week: musician Santigold pines for a day job…Time’s gonzo humorist Joel Stein offers some manly etiquette tips…Three ancient art treasures we HAVEN’T found…Rico visits crawfish country…Shakespearean theater worth fighting for…Writer Gideon Lewis-Kraus walks us through pilgrimages…Plus, humor from Violens, Sendak remembered, and the canine brain.

Episode 147: The All-Music Episode May 04, 2012

This week: It’s our first ever All-Music Episode! Willie Nelson gets lost in the haze of memory…Patton Oswalt on public radio’s music problem…The Shins’ James Mercer tells a Cold War secret…America’s #1 hit writer Lamont Dozier on a miss…And we get back – to the Beatles final rooftop concert. Plus, sound and silliness from Billy Bragg, Wanda Jackson, and Cass McCombs.

Episode 146: Mike D, Taco USA, and Ballet Lessons Apr 26, 2012

This week: The Beastie Boys’ Mike D injects life (and caffeine) into museum-going… Lizz Winstead, comedienne and co-creator of the Daily Show, exposes herself… Gene Ween plays Rod McKuen… The descendants of Emily Post on cupcake etiquette… Ballet Lessons from a dancer-director… And a little piece of Heaven, courtesy of The Walkmen. Plus, genius delinquents, Eiffel Towers of booze, and a joke about burning ambition.

Episode 145: Emily Blunt, Proper Partying, and SubliminalsexScience Apr 19, 2012

This week: Actress Emily Blunt explains dolphin break-ups… Rocker Andrew W.K. teaches us how to party properly… New Coke gets remixed… We graze at the Grilled Cheese Invitational… Bestselling science writer Leonard Mladinow decodes subliminal messages… A never-ending note from Jenny Lawson, a.k.a. “The Bloggess”… And Of Montreal’s schizophrenic party soundtrack. Plus, TV for dogs, the art of vinyl, and a folk-joke from duo Mike and Ruthy.

Episode 144: Greta Gerwig, Questlove, and Liquid Matchsticks Apr 12, 2012

This week: “Actor of her generation” Greta Gerwig on naturalism vs. quirk… The Roots’ ?uestlove on food… Author Carl Hiaasen gives us a reality check… Kathy Griffin, queen of misbehavior, offers etiquette advice… The forgotten Astaire… We learn a striking history, with cocktail to match… and the Imagination Movers give entertaining tips on keeping kids entertained. Plus, a Spurlockian joke, a soprano drought, and your new favorite song from the Alabama Shakes.

Episode 143: Spring Break…with Michelle Williams and GZA Apr 05, 2012

This week, a walk down memory lane! (Ahem – a rerun.) Yes, for our Spring Break, we’re re-airing one of our favorite episodes from 2011. Front and center is the impossibly charming Michelle Williams, whose portrayal of Marilyn Monroe later earned her a Globes win and an Oscar nomination. Plus: a science lesson from Wu-Tang’s GZA, juicy gossip about Fidel Castro, and Rico literally inhales America’s best vodka. Tune in next week for an all-new, all-excellent show featuring Questlove, Greta Gerwig, and Carl Hiaasen.

Episode 142: The Duplass Brothers, Val Kilmer-Twain, and the Oysteress Mar 30, 2012

This week: Filmmaking brothers Mark and Jay Duplass, who nap in trailers… Val Kilmer resurrects Mark Twain… Grandmaster of flash (fiction), Etgar Keret… Oysters take over the mainland… Poker stud Chris Moneymaker on turning friends into debtors… Guillotin’s “enlightened” machine… Plus, the sounds of Howlin Rain, a pizza panic-button, and a seeing-eye joke.

Episode 141: Rick Moody, Shower Muses, and Snail Eggs Mar 23, 2012

This week: Author Rick Moody dives into his gene pool… Jonah Lehrer showers us with inspiration… Escargot Eggs… Comedian Moshe Kasher’s train-wreck mem’ries… And etiquette tips from world-class concierge Michael Fazio. Plus, a little night music from jazz star Esperanza Spalding, a super joke from Of Montreal, and vibrating tattoos.

Episode 140: Ewan McGregor, Pretzel Dumplings, and Happy Endings Mar 15, 2012

This week: Actor Ewan McGregor, in three dimensions… “Happy Endings” star Casey Wilson’s (semi) happy endings… Youth Lagoon’s dinner party soundtrack… A ‘psychic’ reading from Heidi Julavits… The best sushi chef in the world… Pretzel dumplings… How “Uranus” got its name… And next-gen Posts teach us about table fairies. Plus: drinkable pancakes, Irish jokes, a w-h-i-z-k-i-d, and much more.

Episode 139: Jon Hamm, Irish Latkes, and Bottled Etiquette Mar 09, 2012

This week: Actor Jon Hamm takes us way beyond the Mad Men universe… Comic Michael Ian Black says you’re not doing it right… atheist author Alain de Botton teaches religion… writer Amelia Gray sees ghosts… Jon Glaser’s high concepts… the sobering history of “Axis Sally”… and Rico tastes a bit o’ the boxty. Plus, a new tune from Beach House, and a joke in the key of “corny.”

Episode 138: Stephin Merritt, Vengeance Eating, and Alka-hol Mar 02, 2012

This week: Stephin Merritt’s attraction to love… Actress Amy Brenneman adjudicates listener etiquette… A vengeful lunch with Joel Stein… an Alkaholic drink… Neil deGrasse Tyson defends space… Bill Plympton’s favorite animation… and a 3-song prescription from Dr. Dog. Plus: Aggie yells, a Dinner Party Timeout, and a cross-word joke from singer Cate le Bon.

Episode 137: Geoff Dyer, Bug Juice, and Damn Good Advice Feb 24, 2012

This week: Celebrated UK writer Geoff Dyer takes us into the “Zona”… Top Chef’s Gail Simmons survives internship hell and gets her Angel wings… Damn Good Advice from legendary ad man George Lois… Bees you can drink… A big empire built on small change… Winning an election… And nomophobia on the rise. Plus: picture books for grownups, Islands with Hallways, and a Fun joke.

Episode 136: Michel Hazanavicius, New Fruit, and Undead Presidents Feb 17, 2012

This week: “The Artist” director Michel Hazanavicius breaks the silence… Brendan witnesses the arrival of a fruit sensation… Titanic sound achievements, selected by a 7-time Oscar-winning sound designer… Sharon Van Etten’s moody party soundtrack… the real “Bonfire of the Vanities”… and Comedian Sarah Colonna breaks up with eHarmony. Plus, travel trends, a reality-check for gamers, and a joke from Miranda July.

Episode 135: The Shins, Lovable Fools, and Boardwalk Empires Feb 10, 2012

This week: The Shins’ James Mercer blows the lid off a government cover-up… author Krys Lee’s inspired immigrant tales… An Oscar-nominated Undefeated team… Emily Post’s offspring get aggressive-aggressive… a tourist’s guide to a city you can’t visit… and Victorian puddings on the rise (plus a recipe). Plus: The weirdest bands of the year, a kiddie joke from Youth Lagoon, and a prescription for dull dinner parties from Dr. Dog.

Episode 134: Anjelica Huston, Doomsday Planes, and Things about Chicken Wings Feb 03, 2012

This week: Actress Anjelica Huston reveals her secret good-luck charm … Writer-provocateur Caitlin Flanagan blends etiquette, therapy, and cake… “The Artist’s” James Cromwell talks quiet… Chickens with four wings… Greeks invade Britain… We toast the end of the world… A poem from imprisoned dissident Liu Xiaobo… Plus, nurture-over-nature, and a Major find from the Asteroids Galaxy Tour.

Episode 133: Chairlift, Megadeth on Etiquette, and the Food Olympics Jan 27, 2012

This week: Musical duo Chairlift offers us a martini (and some music)…Megadeth politely shreds our etiquette questions…Author-du-jour Ben Marcus says words CAN break your bones…Antonio Banderas plays kitty and creepy…A soldier lost and found – 28 years later…Plus, the latest in men’s fashion, epic Sundance flops, and a joke from crime writer Robert Crais.

Episode 132: Tim and Eric, Bone Luging, and Lucinda Williams Jan 20, 2012

This week: Sketch duo Tim & Eric tell us the secret to comedy… Lucinda Williams on etiquette and (non) barbecuing… Chuck Klosterman tackles football… Shalom Auslander’s words about last words… CNN’s Kat Kinsman talks about not talking about “bone luging”… And the science of “disgusting.” Plus, a running joke, your letters, and new Shins.

Episode 131: Stephen Merchant, Demon Children, and The War on Drugs Jan 13, 2012

This week: “The Office” co-creator Stephen Merchant spars with Brendan… fashion guru Simon Doonan advocates mullets… humorists Dave Barry & Alan Zweibel (attempt to) read their epic epilogue… The soundtrack of The War on Drugs… Artist Chris Burden’s slot-cars on steroids… And Rico digs into Frito Pie. Plus: silent senators, illin’ crosswords, and far-out jokes.

Episode 130: Wim Wenders, Liszt Lists, and Live Long and Proper Jan 06, 2012

This week: Director Wim Wenders speaks body language… Star Trek’s George Takei takes etiquette to warp factor five… A list about Liszt, from world-renowned pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet… Kathleen Turner’s fiery new role… Third Wave Coffee… Existential humor… And finally, we learn how to play dead from a corpse – and then how to come back to life from Guided By Voices.

Episode 129: The List Show Dec 30, 2011

This week: We celebrate the year’s end with an all-list show. Film critic A.O. Scott explains the art (and anxiety) behind list-making… The Colbert Report’s Opus Moreschi curates the year in comedy… sleeper hit films… Lists with identity crises… And the Onion lists the year’s top news stories that never happened. Plus, a glimpse of the future feat. jetpacks, platefuls of bark, and your favorite artists of *next* year (like Jhene Aiko and the XX).

Episode 128: The Best of 2011 Dec 23, 2011

This week: We celebrate the best of 2011 Hear Guest of Honor interviews with Spike Lee, Carrie Brownstein, and Randy Newman… groove to disco godfather Nile Rodgers’ tale of the birth of “Le Freak”… feast on a heart-stopping sandwich and a 100-year-old egg… toast Sweden’s turn to the right… ponder a bigger Small Talk… then set your New Year’s playlists with Song Of The Year picks from listeners like you.

Episode 127: Patton Oswalt, Dinner for Breakfast, & Pre-Holiday Post Etiquette Dec 16, 2011

This week: Patton Oswalt rocks our public radio world… A travel list from essayist Sloane Crosley… A shot-less heist inspires a shot-full cocktail… The “Rules of Regifting,” according to etiquette royalty… Author Jay Kirk tells the tale of Barnum versus Britannia… a dinner party soundtrack from Kathryn Calder of the band The New Pornographers… and Rico gets a brief history of breakfast.

Episode 126: Gary Oldman, Top Chef: Etiquette, and Instant History Dec 09, 2011

This week: Actor Gary Oldman turns our world upside-down… Top Chef’s Gail Simmons spills some sweet and saucy etiquette tips… Artist/Musician Terry Allen uncovers 3 lost gems… We toast the instant replay (twice)… and author Lou Beach tells 6 stories with 420 characters. Plus, a crash course in video games, a joke from Brit-com phenom Stephen Merchant, and a tune from Chairlift.

Episode 125: Michelle Williams, Inspired Vodka, and GZA the Genius Dec 02, 2011

This week: Actress Michelle Williams channels Marilyn… GZA of the Wu-Tang Clan proves his Genius… New Yorker critic Alex Ross shares the best of his “Best Of”… child star Barry Livingston picks his favorite characters… Gossip and Etiquette collide… Rico inhales some world-class vodka… and 7 ways to read a sandwich.

Episode 124: David Cronenberg, Miranda July’s PennySavior, and Real Estate in Paris Nov 23, 2011

This week: David Cronenberg plays with our minds…We toast the phonograph with a drink that sounds like it…PennySaver 101 from Miranda July…Odd Future goes Pop…We’re thankful for Elaine Stritch…Sarcasm in the Smithsonian?…And we check in on Real Estate in Paris.

Episode 123: John Jeremiah Sullivan, Dick Cavett-iquette, and Wild Flag Nov 18, 2011

This week: Essayist John Jeremiah Sullivan takes a hard left turn…Talk show giant Dick Cavett spits out etiquette tips… We learn the meaning of “peplum”… Mega-producer Nile Rodgers gets revenge on Studio 54… The Edsel flops right into a cocktail glass… And Caldecott Award-winner Brian Selznick (Hugo) shares unforgettable picture books – for adults. Plus a playlist from indierock supergroup Wild Flag.

Episode 122: Sir Richard Branson, Jonathan Lethem, and Masters of Etiquette Nov 08, 2011

This week, Sir Richard Branson drops the ‘sir’ for us… writer Jonathan Lethem squeezes Gertrude Stein, Jack Kerouac, and Drew Barrymore into a hot tub…. why we wanted our MTV… the (non-Portland) trailblazer of b-ball backboard-breaking… “Extreme Makeover: Urban Food Store Edition”… and iconic singer-songwriter Judy Collins muses on being a muse.

Episode 121: Cyndi Lauper, Thanksgiving’s New Black, and Punk Rock Etiquette Nov 02, 2011

This Week: Cyndi Lauper reveals that her true colors are the blues… Comedian Jenny Slate hears voices and tells us her faves… a seasonal organic, free-range serving of New Yorker Mag’s Adam Gopnik… Henry Rollins punks your etiquette questions… and why Thanksgiving won’t let you eat cake.

Episode 120: Chuck Klosterman, Diabolical Hawkes, and Zagats in the Zeitgeist Oct 28, 2011

This Week: Author Chuck Klosterman tosses aside salad… Rap diva Big Freedia on booty etiquette… And the Zagats guide Brendan through the history of the Zagat guide. Plus, the Beatles’ rooftop concert in first-person, John Hawkes on playing a monster, and a soundtrack from a Little Dragon.

Episode 119: Antonio Banderas, Old-School Candy, and Music from a Non-belieber Oct 21, 2011

This Week: The Dinner Party Download fattens up to become *The Dinner Party* – a cool hour of culture. Actor Antonio Banderas talks about learning to talk… jazz phenom Esperanza Spalding cues up her party soundtrack… and Rico tastes Turkish Delight. Plus, killer beer, documentaries for the doc-averse…and etiquette from Jackie Collins.

Episode 118: Little Dragon and Big Small Talk Oct 14, 2011

This week: As we ready for next week’s hour-long show premiere, we serve up two more courses from the DPD test kitchen. You’ll hear suggestions for your dinner party soundtrack from Swedish band Little Dragon. Plus, author Alexander Maksik flies into a moth-joke trap.

Episode 117: Etiquette with Jackie Collins & more from the DPD Test Kitchen Oct 07, 2011

This week: 28-time bestselling novelist Jackie Collins drops by to give Etiquette lessons… and to dish about Michael Caine’s birthday bash. Plus, more experimentation from the DPD test kitchen, a call for your calls, and a track from phenom Luke Rathborne.

Episode 116: Jeanne Darst, Gary Hustwit, and the DPD Hotline Sep 30, 2011

This week, we continue to prepare for the hour-long version of the show by serving up some new courses. You’ll “overhear” a story from author Jeanne Darst, take a Chattering Class on urban design with filmmaker Gary Hustwit, and learn the number of our new dinner-party hotline. (Drunk dialing allowed.) Let us know what you think! Plus, a traumatizing joke from debut novelist Justin Torres, and a new tune from the Stepkids.

Episode 115: What if the DPD was an hour-long show? Sep 21, 2011

Welcome to *The Dinner Party* – a culture show that gives you everything you need to win this weekend’s dinner party.. On the menu: Pulitzer Prize winner Jennifer Egan quacks us up, comedian Demetri Martin takes us on a dietary journey, and we pose our burning etiquette questions to Broadway sensation Elaine Stritch. Plus, an interview with breakout actress Greta Gerwig, poetry from Billy Collins, and lots more.

Episode 114: Steve James, Must-See Docs, and Jens Lekman Sep 14, 2011

This week: Steve James, director of “Hoop Dreams” and “The Interrupters,” interrupts our regularly scheduled programming to list some docs you’ll love, even if you’re doc-avoidant. Plus, Swedish singer-songwriter Jens Lekman gets up in his own grill. Much more to come as we prep for a longer, tastier DPD… stay tuned.

Episode 113: Gus Van Sant, Government Lunches, and Glutenny Sep 08, 2011

This week: Filmmaker Gus Van Sant gives us the silent treatment… America says Uncle… And Brendan gets the lowdown on gluten from Erin “Babycakes” McKenna. Plus, Soleil Moon Frye (a.k.a. Punky Brewster) kids around, and Feist offers up a bluesy new tune.

Episode 112: Terry Allen, Swedish Rights, and Sissy Bounce Sep 01, 2011

This week: Musician/Artist Terry Allen re-mystifies love… Sweden gets on the right track… And tennis superstar Novak Djokovic eggs himself on. Plus, a joke from a bitter Kiwi and a bouncin’ track from Big Freedia.

Episode 111: TV on the Radio, Moonicorns, and Sophisticake Aug 25, 2011

This week: TV on the Radio explains why it’s raining milk…The Sun talks craziness about the moon…And we treat ourselves to the cake to end all cakes. Plus, a joke from actress Claire Sloma and a fierce new track from Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks.

Episode 110: Miranda July, a Stolen Smile, and the Waterguns of Brixton Aug 18, 2011

This week: Filmmaker and artist Miranda July reveals her secret identity…The Mona Lisa takes an Italian vacation…And Bobbies crack down on super-soakers. Plus, a joke from musician Forrest Day and a mesmerizing tune from Lana Del Rey.

Episode 109: The Icebreaker Episode (2nd Ed.) Aug 12, 2011

Back by popular demand, it’s another all-star, all-icebreaker show: Almost every joke we’ve aired in the last year, collected in one convenient podcast. Patton Oswalt, Miranda July, Spike Jonze, Lemmy and many, many more regale you with miniature tales of animals in bars, drummers in hell and dumb dictators. It’s a veritable feast of corn and cheese. Click here for the list of jokes and their tellers…

Episode 108: Don Cheadle, Shredding History, and Speculoos Aug 04, 2011

This week: Actor Don Cheadle (“The Guard”) kisses and doesn’t tell… Music history gets a blast to the eardrums… And Rico discovers the best waffle topping you’ve never heard of. Plus, an uncool joke from Emma Straub, and new old soul sounds from The Shakes.

Episode 107: Brit Marling & Mike Cahill, Toothless Tickets, and the Confederate Cleopatra Jul 26, 2011

This week: The filmmaking duo behind “Another Earth” keep it real… L.A. tells the truth about traffic tickets… and a Confederate spy in the house of love. Plus Miranda July sings for laughs, and Cut Off Your Hands. That’s a band, not an order.

Episode 106: Errol Morris, Mammoth Cheese, and 4000 Years Of Food Jul 20, 2011

This week: Documentary auteur Errol Morris reluctantly joins the party… A half-ton cheese rolls up to the White House… and we dig into millenia’s worth of food with culture critic Lewis Lapham. Plus, a joke from author Ransom Riggs, and a new tune from The War on Drugs.

Episode 105: Shabazz Palaces, Disco Bashes, and Cola Wars 2.0 Jul 15, 2011

This week: Shabazz Palaces’ Ishmael Butler gives us something to chew on…A disco bash breaks a ton of records…And Dr. Pepper sues Dr. Pepper. Plus, a touchy joke from The Low Anthem and a groovy song from Real Estate.

Episode 104: Shepard Fairey, Menu Mania, and Sliced Bread Jul 08, 2011

This week: Street art superstar Shepard Fairey tags our table… An uncut history of sliced bread… And stacks of historic menus finally get their (web) close-up. Plus, a joke from celt-folk phenom Julie Feeney and a scorching tune from Ty Segall.

Episode 103: Bonnie Jo Campbell, 2nd Class Babies, and Getting Outta Dodge Jul 01, 2011

This week: Author Bonnie Jo Campbell goes zonkeys…The rowdies get out of Dodge…And Ashton Kutcher’s twitter account solves traffic crises. Plus, a joke from celebrated author Matthew Gallaway, and a new track from the Unknown Mortal Orchestra.

Episode 102: John C. Reilly, Lady Umpires, and the ‘Buch Jun 24, 2011

This week: Actor John C. Reilly fights the meanies… A housewife breaks through baseball’s grass ceiling… And Brendan fact-checks “magical” drink kombucha. Plus, a duck-duck joke from Pulitzer-winner Jennifer Egan and a new tune from Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. [sic]

Episode 101: Richard Ayoade, Translantic Transfusion, and Jagger Elks Jun 16, 2011

This week: “Submarine” filmmaker Richard Ayoade starts his own cult… The blood of a sheep breeds some hair of the dog… and Swedes lose the faith — but only on the inside. Plus, an “Aggie” joke from Texan director Richard Linklater, and a song from the band Cults – in keeping with the theme.

Episode 100: Randy Newman, DPD History, and the 100-Year-Old Egg Jun 10, 2011

This week: It’s our 100th episode! To celebrate, Brendan talks to one of his dream guests, music icon Randy Newman… Rico excavates a 100-Year-Old Egg… And we delve into our own history (with booze). Also, listeners share their own dream dinner party guests. Plus, we make a long overdue call to the Sea and Cake, and spin a historic cover song from Dr. Dog.

Episode 99: Michael Sheen, a Tax Streak, and Summer Sandwitches Jun 03, 2011

This week: Actor Michael Sheen speaks in tongues… Lady Godiva streaks into Tea Partiers’ hearts… And a sweet pill erases bitter memories. Plus, a dark joke from director Tim Burton and a bright tune from The Sandwitches.

Episode 98: Fleet Foxes, Pac-Man Pizza, and a Michelin Man May 26, 2011

This week: Fleet Fox Robin Pecknold talks helplessness and hair…A ladies’ Man enters the video game world…And three stars are borne – by master chef Paul Liebrandt. Plus, a joke from street artiste Shepard Fairey, and a dreamy tune by the Dirty Projectors.

Episode 97: Anton Yelchin, Spider-Dan, and Lazycakes May 20, 2011

This week: Actor Anton Yelchin can’t let go of Legos… Spider-Dan climbs the walls… And Del the Funky Homosapien has a ball. Plus we revel in a new tune from L.A. band Alexander.

Episode 96: Billy Collins, Food Raves, and Wandering Waste May 12, 2011

This week: Former poet laureate Billy Collins talks death and baseball… The lonely journey of the Gar-Barge… And Rico survives a San Fran food rave. Plus, new music from Black Lips, and jokes from a Vivian Girl.

Episode 95: Demetri Martin, Robber in Rio, and Kissing Machines May 05, 2011

This week: Comedian Demetri Martin fires up his brain machine… We go on the lam with the most punk-rock fugitive in history…. And Morgan Spurlock makes us cry. Plus, virtual kisses and a rockin’ lullaby from Modern Mothers.

Episode 94: Dinner Party Etiquette with Elaine Stritch Apr 26, 2011

This week: A special DPD, as Broadway legend Elaine Stritch answers listeners’ etiquette questions in a most “ladylike” way. She’s dated Brando, dissed Sinatra, and conquered the Great White Way… but can she handle the social graces of a dinner party?

Episode 93: An East-Over Feast Apr 22, 2011

This week, feast upon our favorite food segments from podcasts past: Rico attacks a WWII-era sandwich… Brendan warily bites into a sushirrito… and we learn about twice-”baked” goods. Don’t call them leftovers; they’re *East-Overs.* Plus! Feast your ears on a waiter joke, and scarf down a food tune from Brendan himself.

Episode 92: Vera Farmiga, Going Dutch, and the Birth of Spam Apr 14, 2011

This week: Actress Vera Farmiga has a productive year… We learn who to blame for online SPAM… And Rico goes Dutch… Plus, a joke from author T.C. Boyle and a new tune from ace songsmith Cass McCombs.

Episode 91: Greta Gerwig, Ping Pong Politics, and the Sleep Elite Apr 07, 2011

This week: Actress Greta Gerwig finds the right dress for the big time… Two ping pong players thaw the Cold War… And the “sleep elite” put shuteye to rest. Plus a joke from Texas musician/artist Terry Allen and “The Morning” from The Weeknd [sic].

Episode 90: Bellflower, Guillotin’s Machine, and the Cheesesteak Challenger Mar 31, 2011

This week: “Bellflower” filmmakers Evan Glodell and Tyler Dawson set the film-fest circuit ablaze… A Philly sandwich takes on the cheesesteak… And the tale of a most enlightened killing machine. Plus unholy laughter from bestselling author Tea Obreht and a new tune from Vetiver.

Episode 89: Neil Strauss, Cold (Con)fusion, and Rabbit Rex Mar 24, 2011

This week: Author/Interviewer Neil Strauss inhales rock-n-roll… Science gives cold fusion the cold shoulder… And *Radiolab*’s Jad Abumrad unearths a giant rabbit. Plus music from Bright Eyes, and a joke from top tailor Vahram Mateosian.

Episode 88: Willie Nelson, Frontier Justice, and Tex-Next Cuisine Mar 17, 2011

This week: From SXSW comes our all-Texas show. Music legend Willie Nelson talks Crazy… Judge Roy Bean serves justice on the rocks… And Rico explores tex-next cuisine. Plus laffs and music from two SXSW buzz bands: a thilly joke from Toro y Moi and and a tasty tune from Yuck.

Episode 87: Cary Fukunaga, Historic Headaches, and a Painless Brunch Mar 10, 2011

This week: “Jane Eyre” director Cary Fukunaga horses around… The history of a not-so-bitter pill… and we toss back a painkiller brunch. Plus, a joke from jewelry designer Annie Costello Brown and a truth-telling tune from Dutch indie-modster M-JO.

Episode 86: Gabrielle Hamilton, The Peacemaker, and Smokeavores Mar 04, 2011

This week: Celebrated author and chef Gabrielle Hamilton reveals a sweet secret… the Peacemaker breaks the peace… and a hipster crop lights up Brooklyn. Plus, rise and shine with a new tune from Manchester, UK’s Star Slinger.

Episode 85: Carrie Brownstein, Murdered Moose, and God’s Sporks Feb 25, 2011

This week: “Portlandia” star/creator Carrie Brownstein satirizes her own… Broadway’s major fail… and Rico sticks a fork in history. Plus a joke (in English) from The Love Language… and TUnEYarDs gives us the bizness.

Episode 84: Karen Russell, Paar vs. NB(W)C and Stuck-up Employees Feb 17, 2011

This week: Author Karen Russell muses about amusement parks… Jack Paar vs. NB(W)C… And Wal-Mart employees get gun-fired. Plus: Nashville-based singer/songwriter Tristen delivers a joke, and a trip to San Pedro via Mogwai.

Episode 83: Chris Burden, Small Weddings, and Sushi Burritos Feb 11, 2011

This week: Artist Chris Burden revokes your driver’s license… We look back on the biggest little wedding of the 19th century… And the “Sushirrito” is born. Plus, PJ Harvey’s new tune kills, and Weird Al Yankovic makes a rare foray into comedy.

Episode 82: John Lithgow, Undying Birds, and Lost H-Bombs Feb 04, 2011

This week: Actor John Lithgow gives Brendan a killer look.. .An H-Bomb goes MIA… And we visit a city whose birds never sleep. Plus, a dulcet tune from Fleet Foxes and a wooden joke from Motorhead frontman Lemmy.

Episode 81: Dan Bejar, Big In Japan, and Double Ducks Jan 28, 2011

This week: Indie rocker/wordsmith Dan Bejar finds himself caught in a (quiet) storm… An athlete goes far – and very wide – to get big in Japan… and we roast awful restaurant websites. Plus, rockabilly legend Wanda Jackson quacks us up, and a new tune from Ducktails.

Episode 80: Spike Lee, Liquid Smoke, and Prodigious Peppers Jan 21, 2011

This week: Director Spike Lee instigates debate (and dates)… We go back a long way, baby… And a Franken-pepper is born. Plus, a childish joke from comedian Patton Oswalt and a loverly tune from Allo Darlin’.

Episode 79: Paul Giamatti, Political Animals, and Moby Drinks Jan 14, 2011

This week: Golden-globe nominated actor Paul Giamatti tells a tall tale… Whale secretions wash up in cocktails… And we toast the cartoonist who gave birth to a couple of political animals. Plus, a joke from troubadour Henry Wolfe and a tune from The Radio Dept.

Episode 78: Tennis, Epic Losers, and Happy Birthday Jan 07, 2011

This week: Indie-pop duo Tennis live la vida luddite… A London conference aims for new, boring heights… We unveil the story behind sports’ biggest losers… Plus a joke from director Spike Jonze and a new Happy Birthday song.

Episode 77: The Best of 2010 Dec 31, 2010

This week: Our favorite stuff from the last 12 months – starring Das Racist, Rainn Wilson, Molly Ringwald, Sebastian Junger, mutant barnyard animals, drunken traders, adult kamikazes and a goat named Lincoln. Plus music from Ariel Pink & Sage Francis… and an easter egg omelet.

Episode 76: Sofia Coppola, Air-ial Assaults, and Superflops Dec 23, 2010

This week: Writer-director Sofia Coppola reveals she was heir to *another* Hollywood legend… A killer smog chokes London… And Broadway’s Spiderman breaks several legs. Plus: a dear joke from Badly Drawn Boy, and a holiday tune from Bishop Allen.

Episode 75: Christian Lander, See No Weevil, and Stealth Miso Dec 17, 2010

This week: Satirist Christian Lander talks about Stuff White People Like… a town goes nuts after a boll weevil blight… and Brendan looks into the future of food, but can’t see the stealth miso. Plus, a joke from Los Lobos and a tune from Toro y Moi.

Episode 74: Kid Cudi, Starstruck, and Reindeer a la Palin Dec 10, 2010

This week: Rap iconoclast Kid Cudi comes in for a check-up… An Alabama woman gets star-struck… And Sarah Palin slays a reindeer. Plus, a joke/hallucination from Bob Odenkirk, and a classic track from Thin Lizzy.

Episode 73: Diplo, Tofu U, and Pong Pong Dec 03, 2010

This week: Global DJ and music mogul Diplo takes a call… The besotted birth of the video game industry… and Rico gets schooled at America’s most vegan-friendly campus. Plus “medicinal” vodka and a new tune from Cloud Nothings.

Episode 72: A Three-Course Thanksgiving Nov 25, 2010

This week, a Thanksgiving meal for your ears, in three courses: Brendan braves the mean streets of NYC to score contraband grilled cheese… Rico daintily dips his tongue into the hottest of hot sauces… and we launch a unilateral war against the cupcake.

Episode 71: Sally Hawkins, Fossil Follies, and Chinese Thanksgiving Nov 19, 2010

This week: UK movie star Sally Hawkins crows about her new film… we unearth the missing drink… and Brendan has an early Thanksgiving in Chinatown. Plus, a joke from Procol Harum’s Gary Brooker, and a new track from A-D-D D.J. Girl Talk.

Episode 70: Huey Lewis, Le Situation, and The Birth of Football Nov 12, 2010

This week: Pop ‘n’ soul star Huey Lewis gets dressed… Canada takes out our TV trash… We learn the greatest name in football… Plus Kai Ryssdal kids around and Sonny and the Sunsets supply a tune.

Episode 69: Chris Morris, Black Bart, and Getting Your Goat Nov 05, 2010

This week: Brit actor/director/provocateur Chris Morris terrorizes US movie screens… Black Bart’s last verse… and urban farmers get their goats. Plus, Curative new music from Crystal Castles, and an-”other” joke.

Episode 68: Noomi Rapace, World War Welles, and Legitish Quidditch Oct 29, 2010

This week: Swedish starlet Noomi Rapace removes her Dragon Tattoo… America’s fake World War… And Quidditch vies for legit-ish-macy. Plus a joke from Talking Head Chris Frantz, and music from The Smith Westerns.

Episode 67: Judd Apatow, Beer Tsunamis, and Conflict Cuisine Oct 22, 2010

This week: Comedy juggernaut Judd Apatow courts disaster… London’s suds flood… and Rico experiences the sweet taste of Conflict. Plus, a joke from author du jour Dinaw Mengestu and new music from Kiwi band Secret Knives.

Episode 66: Paul F. Tompkins, Uncivil Wars, and Tennis Marathons Oct 15, 2010

This week: Comedian Paul F. Tompkins is no longer driven…A congressional beatdown for the ages…And the cult draining Seagram’s…Plus, new music from the band Tennis.

Episode 65: Robert Reich, Killer Talkies, and Illegal Eats Oct 08, 2010

This Week: Former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich gets exposed… the death of silent movies… and Rico is presented with a menu of crimes. Plus Small Black… Guam’s rain of rodents… and a so-so So So Glo joke.

Episode 64: Sam Taylor-Wood, Unhappy Happy Meals, Inventions that Suck Oct 01, 2010

This week: Artist-turned-filmmaker Sam Taylor-Wood reveals a secret… San Francisco takes the happy out of meals… And we learn about an invention that really sucked. Plus: new music from Deerhunter.

Episode 63: Davis Guggenheim, Driving then Drinking, The Situation 2.0 Sep 24, 2010

This week: Oscar-winning filmmaker Davis (“An Inconvenient Truth”) Guggenheim schools us on his latest movie… We take a trip down memory superhighway… Apple’s got a Situation… and a meta joke.

Episode 62: Dave Eggers, Longshot Journalism, and pseudo-Millionaires Sep 17, 2010

This week: Author/artist/publisher Dave Eggers tells us something he CAN’T do… A British Major fails the cough test… and a long-shot Longshot. Plus a joke from Tony Millionaire and music from Belle & Sebastian.

Episode 61: Panda Bear, Bare Naked Faces, and Baked Goods Sep 10, 2010

This week: Noah Lennox (a.k.a. Panda Bear) gives us a sporting shot… Peter the Great wages war on the hirsute… And Rico meets the baker behind some medical munchies.

Episode 60: Alasdair MacLean, Flaming Cocktails, and Empty Stadiums Sep 03, 2010

This week: The Clientele’s Alasdair MacLean is a minotaur… London’s burning… and the NFL tackles falling attendance. Plus: Moody humor, and a lost gem from the Neil who isn’t Diamond.

Episode 59: Spike Jonze, Potato Chips, and Grilled Cheese Dealers Aug 27, 2010

This week: Director Spike Jonze channels Flava Flav… We dig up the salty story behind America’s favorite snack… and Brendan learns what it’s like to hustle grilled cheese on the mean streets of NYC.

Episode 58: Aamir Khan, Volcano Parties, and the Deaf-Teens Aug 20, 2010

This week: Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan puzzles over the Indian film industry… An explosive burst of red-hot history… And Farai Chideya explains why teens just won’t listen.

Episode 57: Gary Shteyngart, Guitars go Electric, and Killer Fries Aug 13, 2010

This week: Celebrated novelist Gary Shteyngart doggedly pursues mental health… A history lesson you can crank to eleven… and Rico learns French Fries know no limits.

Episode 56: Rainn Wilson, the King of Albania, and Eat Pay Leave Aug 06, 2010

This week: “The Office” star Rainn Wilson goes from artsy to fartsy… Eat Pray Lovers asked to Eat Pay Leave… and the real fake King of Albania.

Episode 55: Molly Ringwald, Esperanto, and Raven #2 Jul 30, 2010

This week: ’80s teen icon Molly Ringwald barks like a dog (and talk about her new book)…William Shatner speaks the language of hope… And Brendan eats corn smut.

Episode 54: Venus Williams, Wrong Turns, and Cloud Control Jul 23, 2010

This week: Tennis superstar Venus Williams lives long and prospers…Texas criminals get literate…And a befuddled (or brilliant!) aviator takes a wrong way turn into the history books. Plus, rocker Cass McCombs on cloud control.

Episode 53: Sebastian Junger, Evil Machines, WWII Food Jul 16, 2010

This week: Sebastian Junger joins Afghanistan’s band of brothers… a devilish Okie spawns the parking meter… and Rico gets a (tiny) taste of rationed food during WWII. Plus, a joke from author/satirist Gary (“Absurdistan”) Shteyngart… and Cults to join.

Episode 52: Blitzen Trapper, the Throne Stone from Scone, Eating Dirt Jul 02, 2010

This week: Portland sextet Blitzen Trapper eyes us up…the throne stone from Scone…and Brendan meets an artist who bites the dust…literally. Plus Top Chef Ludo Lefebvre eats his own, and new Wavves.

Episode 51: Simon Rich, Ali vs. U.S.A., Sweet and Sour Honeymoon Jun 18, 2010

This week Simon Rich kills Hitler…Muhammad Ali vs. the U.S.A…and a sweet and sour honeymoon

Episode 50: Paul Verhoeven, No Joy in Mudville, Food Critic on Food Stamps Jun 05, 2010

This week Rico scares the Jesus out of Paul Verhoeven…three strikes you’re drunk…and Temp of the Month: Kai Rysdall

Episode 49: Wallace Shawn, FBI vs. Louie Louie, No Kidding May 21, 2010

This week Wallace Shawn critiques power and Brendan…the FBI investigates Louie Louie…and RIco chats with a restarauteur who’s not kidding around.

Episode 48: Marisa Silver, ‘Rob Me Ronnie’, Parasite-aurants May 07, 2010

This Week: Celebrated author Marisa Silver exorcises her right to write… We go on the lam with Ronnie Biggs… and Brendan discovers a sandwich shop inside a bodega wrapped up in an enigma.

Episode 47: Paul Dano, New Coke and BYOF Apr 23, 2010

This week: Actor Paul Dano is achin’ for bacon… the classic story of New Coke…and why BYOF will sadly not be the new BYOB.

Episode 46: Das Racist, Ripple Rock & Alicia Silverstone Apr 09, 2010

This Week: Victor Vasquez of rap savants Das Racist talks bop… Canada politely explodes… and Alicia Silverstone tries to veganize Brendan.

Episode 45: Tig Notaro, Big Brass Bells & Pop Up Lunch Mar 26, 2010

This Week: Comic Tig Notaro gets all southern-fancy… we admire Wall Street’s big brass bells… and designer Ali Pulver shows Rico how to eat on the street.

Episode 44 – The Icebreaker Show Mar 12, 2010

A very special episode: almost every joke we’ve ever had on the show, collected in one convenient podcast. Black Francis, Tom Jones, Billy Bragg, Leslie Caron and many, many more regale you with miniature tales of guys in bars, lightbulb-changers, penguins and a mainstream cloud. Some are funny. Some are not. But there are lots of them.

Episode 43: Holly Golightly, Peace, and Sustainable Dinner Parties Feb 26, 2010

This Week: Garage-country songsters Holly Golightly & Lawyer Dave pack heat… a piece about peace… and Brendan sustains interest in sustainable dinner parties.

Episode 42: Author Joshua Ferris, the Real Bonfire of the Vanities, and Snowcavores Feb 12, 2010

Bestselling author Joshua Ferris talks the walk… Renassance Italy burns in vain… and Rico learns what locavores do when it snowcavores.

Episode 41: Film Director Robert Siegel, a Modern Caveman and the Trendology Trend Jan 29, 2010

“Big Fan” filmmaker Robert Siegel has a clipped conversation with Rico… we meet a modern caveman… and Brendan investigates the Food Trend trend. Plus a joke, or lack thereof, from *the* Leslie Caron.

Episode 40: Midlake, Silent Hattie & the Sounds of Ambience Jan 15, 2010

This week: Rock band Midlake gets medieval on Brendan… America’s 1st female senator is silently defiant… and Rico learns why, in restaurants, silence is not an option.

Episode 39: The Best of 2009 Dec 30, 2009

This Week: What do Lamont Dozier, Dr. Albert Hoffman, Swine Flu business suits, Girls and deep-fried butter have in common? They all appeared on the Dinner Party Download this year, and they’re all in our annual Best Of episode. Plus Jonathan Coulton breaks the ice… and download Rico’s favorite tune of the year from rocker Benjy Ferree.

Episode 38: Terry Gilliam, Japanese Heists and Cupcakes for Grownups Dec 18, 2009

This Week: Filmmaker Terry Gilliam holds the devil at bay… We learn about Japan’s most infamous heist… and Brendan meets a cupcake he actually likes. PLUS the Pixies’ Black Francis breaks the ice… and download a song from rock orchestra Citay.

Episode 37: George Saunders, New Look Turkey Sandwich, Getting Hit On By A Star Dec 04, 2009

This Week: Writer George Saunders pitches a tent… an Alabama housewife gets hit on by a star… and a famed deli just can’t quit cold turkey.

Episode 36: Julian Casablancas, Thanksgiving Centerfolds, A Car is Born Nov 20, 2009

This Week: Julian Casablancas strokes the new 90210…Brendan checks out the swimsuit issue of food mags… and we learn about the Motor City’s lemon legend.

Episode 35: Laura Veirs, Jonathan Safran Foer and King Tut Nov 06, 2009

This week: Musician Laura Veirs breathes deep… author Jonathan Safran Foer pigs out… and we discover King Tut’s last hut.

Episode 34: Klosterman, Kidnapping and Killer Kandy Oct 23, 2009

This week: pop savant Chuck Klosterman is sharp as a tiger’s whiskers… we lend an ear to the tale of a billionaire kidnapping… and Brendan celebrates Halloween by tasting the worst candy in the world.

Episode 33: Yo La Tengo, Koreanguistics, Killer Greens Oct 09, 2009

This week: Yo La Tengo’s Ira Kaplan pulls out his organ… We get a hangul on Korean literate-ture… and “Food, Inc” director Robert Kenner gives Rico an industrial food complex.

Episode 32: Andy Borowitz, Cornography, Tipping Tips Sep 25, 2009

This week: Brendan sizes up humorist Andy Borowitz…we unearth a corny communist plot…and Rico gets tips on tipping.

Episode 31: Billy Bragg, Short-Lived Millonaires and Deep-Fried Butter Sep 11, 2009

This week: Billy Bragg makes “Ode” new again… an English Major fails the cough test… and Brendan talks to a cholesterocidal maniac.

Episode 30: Gary Hustwit, Krakatoa and Foraging Aug 27, 2009

This week: Filmmaker Gary Hustwit has designs on Honeybaked ham… Krakatoa bursts without pride… and Brendan breaks the two-second rule with a professional forager.

Episode 29: Josie Long, the King of Albania, Saltado Aug 14, 2009

This week: British comedian Josie Long speaks positively…we supposedly meet the King of Albania…and Rico eats Peruvian and asks “Why fries with that?”

Episode 28: Rich Fulcher, Jesse Owens and BrendanBot 3000 Jul 31, 2009

This week: Rich Fulcher, of the cult TV hit “The Mighty Boosh,” raises the decibel level of UK comedy… We race back in time with Jesse Owens… and Brendan samples a drink fit for Olympians. Also: Rico tries and fails to replace Brendan with technology.

Episode 27: Ed Harcourt, Douglas Corrigan and Nonstaurants Jul 17, 2009

This week: pop maestro Ed Harcourt tells Rico his recipes for lamb and schizophrenia… We learn about the aviator who took a wrong turn into the history books… and Brendan says “oui” to nonstaurants.

Episode 26: Mishna Wolff, Bloody Mary, and Gourmet Coal Jul 03, 2009

This week: Humorist Mishna Wolff talks about living in black and white… We sip a bloody mary that’s clearly insane… And Rico learns about the gourmet coal standard.

Episode 25: Anvil’s Lips Kudlow, Ali Dodges, and Bowie Jun 19, 2009

This week: 80′s metal band Anvil forges ahead… Muhammed Ali KO’s the U.S. Army… and Brendan has designs on David Bowie. [photo: Anvil ]

Episode 24: Alain De Botton, Mudville, and Parkside Dining Jun 05, 2009

This week: bestselling author Alain De Botton gets worked over… joy is found in Mudville… and Rico digs the new wave of on-site restaurant gardens.

Episode 23: Datarock, Congressional Beatdown, and BBQ LP May 22, 2009

This week: Norway’s Datarock toot their own horn… we’re knocked out by a drink served beaten, not stirred… and Brendan eats BBQ with a side of vinyl.

Episode 22: Wells Tower, Tree Drinking, Food Mags May 08, 2009

This week: Pushcart Prize-winning author Wells Tower gets auto erotic… we learn how to drink trees… and Rico finds out that starting a food magazine is child’s play.

Episode 21: Stew, Psychedelic Cycling, Culinary Crasher Apr 24, 2009

This week: Tony Award-winning rocker Stew ponders art vs. reality… we take a historic bike trip into an *alternate* reality… and Brendan sneaks into the most exclusive culinary shop in the world.

Episode 20: Ondi Timoner, Salt March, Say Cheese! Apr 10, 2009

This week: Sundance-winning filmmaker Ondi Timoner lives in public radio… We taste the salt that shook the world… and Brendan goes hunting for Easter eggs and finds Grilled Cheese.

Episode 19: Girls, Brando Lore, Meaty Cupcakes Mar 27, 2009

This week: Rico chats up Girls at SXSW… Marlon Brando gets an offer he can refuse… and Brendan is forced to rethink his jihad against cupcakes (Hint: it involves meatloaf).

Episode 18: Benjy Ferree, Planet X, Joel the Knife Mar 13, 2009

This week: rocker Benjy Ferree’s ode to Peter Pan… We discover the planet that dares not speak its name… and Rico sharpens his conversation skills with Brooklyn’s new king of cutlery.

Episode 17: Larry Wilmore, The Peacemaker, Noodle What? Feb 27, 2009

This week: “The Daily Show’s” Larry Wilmore is pure magic… We learn why even grownups shouldn’t play with guns… star mixologist Todd Thrasher mixes a drink fit for a vampire… and Rico pounds down a serious noodle with a funny name.

Episode 16: Howard Zinn, Censors, Piggin’ Out Feb 13, 2009

This week: Historian/Activist Howard Zinn recalls a different kind of flower power… We learn what happens when TV censors can’t take a joke… and Brendan pigs out on lard pigs.

Episode 15: Sarah Shun-lien Bynum, Drink Clone, Donut Training Jan 30, 2009

This week: award winning author Sarah Shun-lien Bynum uses her children to live out her own teen fantasies…We replicate a cocktail recipe… And Rico celebrates athletes by stuffing his face with dough and butter.

Episode 14: Lamont Dozier, Cryonic Cocktail, Korean Tacos Jan 16, 2009

This week: legendary Motown songwriter Lamont Dozier gives candy to children… We chill out with a cryonic cocktail… And Brendan discovers the three most beautiful words in the English language: Korean, BBQ, Tacos.

Episode 13: Best of 2008 Jan 02, 2009

This week: what do Lolita, duck testicles, Chevys, cows, Robert Wagner and booze have in common? This show in 2008, that’s what. We take a look back at the first 12 episodes of the podcast that shocked a nation… and toss in a few new facts for the first dinner parties of 2009.

Episode 12: David Fincher, Tom Jones, Mozzarella Dec 19, 2008

This week: Director David Fincher isn’t afraid of the dark… We unite our nation with an All-American cocktail… Brendan is granted an audience with the king of mozzarella… plus a joke from THE Tom Jones.

Episode 11: David Heatley, Killer Fog, PB&J Dec 05, 2008

This week: Cartoonist David Heatley literally tells all… we inhale a glassful of London’s killer fog… and star pastry chef Adrian Vasquez makes a peanut butter sandwich that’ll make your brain hurt.

Episode 10: Of Montreal, Edison, Bird-munching Nov 21, 2008

This week: Kevin Barnes of the band Of Montreal defines “sexualien”… Thomas Edison lights up a martini glass… and Rico gets permission to eat endangered birds.

Episode 9: Iran, Football Names, White House Garden Nov 14, 2008

This week: we seek direct engagement with Aaron Aites of the band Iran… We learn the greatest name in football… Pittsburgh gets drunk on black gold… and Obama supporters dream of home-grown on the White House lawn.

Episode 8: Robert Wagner, War of the Worlds, Anti-cupcake Oct 31, 2008

This week: Hollywood icon Robert Wagner feels at home on the range… How to mix a cocktail from hell… Orson Welles declares “War” on the radio… and Brendan declares war on cupcakes.

Episode 7: Irvine Welsh, D.C. Homes, Sushi Guide Oct 17, 2008

This week: superstar author Irvine Welsh talks about his sexual prowess… We learn the history of the only home in Washington, D.C. that hasn’t lost its value… And the Monterey Bay Aquarium ruins dinner.

Episode 6: MC Frontalot, The Internets, Fall Food Oct 03, 2008

This week: “nerdcore” rapper MC Frontalot rhymes the unrhymeable… take a trip down Memory Superhighway… and Brendan gets fat on the tastes of Autumn.

Episode 5: Sarah Lyall, Duck Fries, Military Drinks Sep 19, 2008

This week: NYTimes reporter/author Sarah Lyall asks a stupid question… we learn the offal truth about “duck fries”… and the French army invades our cocktail glass.

Episode 4: Ezra Feinberg, London’s Burning, Coffelympics Sep 05, 2008

This week: a sober chat with Ezra Feinberg about his psych-rock band Citay… We remember the Great Fire of London with a conflagrant cocktail… and a champion barista drinks deep the mad flava of competitive coffee-making.

Episode 3: David Carr, Lolita, Wine Snobs Aug 22, 2008

This week: author/columnist David Carr discusses ping-pong as a contact sport… Lolita turns 50, but she’s still too young… and how to defraud wine snobs.

Episode 2: Girl Talk, Ein Berliner, Patriotic Fruit Aug 08, 2008

This Week: the artist known as Girl Talk tells us about his explosive high school band… A short history of Jesse Owens… How to mix a “Berliner Olympic” cocktail… An introduction to the All-American fruit most Americans have never tasted. [Photo: Girl Talk performs live at the Virgin Festival, August 2007. Credit: Joe Cereghino]

Episode 1: The Watson Twins, Dillinger, Hot Sauce Jul 25, 2008

This week: indie-folk duo The Watson Twins shares their secret fantasy…A short history of John Dillinger… How to mix an Old-Fashioned cocktail… Taste a hot sauce 8 times more potent than pepper spray.

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