In this April 17, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman is joined by regulars John Kieran, Franklin P. Adams, and Oscar Levant, along with special guest Grantland Rice, the legendary sportswriter. Together, they deliver a lively mix of sports trivia, poetry, and humor.The panel tackles everything from iconic sports moments, like Gabby Hartnett’s famous home run, to poetic challenges involving rivers like the Congo and the Chattahoochee. Grantland Rice shares his insights on sports history, including tales of athletes like Gene Sarazen and Matt McGrath. Meanwhile, the group debates fictional events and literary quotes with their characteristic wit and charm.Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a poetry lover, or a trivia buff, this episode offers a delightful blend of knowledge and entertainment. Tune in for a nostalgic hour of spontaneous brilliance! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this March 20, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts an engaging panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, celebrated actor John Carradine, and the esteemed conductor Sir Thomas Beecham. Together, they tackle an eclectic mix of cultural, musical, and literary trivia with humor and charm.Topics range from poetic lines inspired by music to the scrap metal contributions of literary and mythical characters like Brunhilde and the ghost of Marley. Sir Thomas Beecham’s musical expertise shines as he identifies operatic nuances, while John Carradine’s theatrical flair adds a dramatic touch to the proceedings.With discussions about Shakespearean characters, historical clichés, and conspiracies in opera, this episode offers a delightful blend of highbrow knowledge and witty banter. Tune in for a captivating hour of unscripted brilliance and lively conversation! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this March 6, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and two distinguished guests: Jan Struther, author of Mrs. Miniver, and Julian Huxley, world-renowned biologist. The episode is a delightful blend of literary wit and scientific insight.The panel tackles questions ranging from poetic “ifs” and mythical borogoves to the peculiar courting rituals of fiddler crabs and penguins. Huxley offers fascinating zoological anecdotes, while Struther charms with her literary flair, even identifying a chiropodist in a humorous musical riddle.With lively discussions about heredity, Shakespearean guilt, and even the biology of raisins versus grapes, this episode is both enlightening and entertaining. Tune in for a unique mix of science, literature, and humor in this exceptional installment of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this February 27, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a distinguished panel including regulars Franklin P. Adams, Oscar Levant, and John Kieran, alongside guest of honor Emil Ludwig, the renowned author and biographer of historical figures like Napoleon and Bolívar.The panel embarks on a journey through history, music, and literature, exploring topics such as the first presidents of nations, Beethoven’s Eroica symphony, and Washington’s Four Freedoms. Emil Ludwig offers insightful perspectives on global leaders, while Oscar Levant delights with musical trivia. The episode also dives into Chaucer’s knights, wine pairings, and questions about mythical creatures.With Ludwig’s historical expertise and the panel’s witty banter, this episode delivers an engaging mix of intellectual discussions and lighthearted trivia. Tune in for a fascinating hour of unscripted brilliance! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this February 20, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a spirited and unscripted panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by two iconic Hollywood stars: John Carradine, celebrated for his menacing roles, and Boris Karloff, the legendary master of horror. The episode dives into a lively mix of questions spanning Shakespearean monologues, infamous historical figures, and legendary spiders.Listeners will delight in Carradine and Karloff’s theatrical flair as they discuss treacherous deeds in Shakespeare, the perseverance of Bruce’s spider, and the chilling story of Robin Hood’s demise. From riddles about famous slaves to debates on the elusive end of rainbows, this episode offers wit, drama, and a touch of gothic charm. Tune in for a captivating blend of trivia, humor, and villainous camaraderie in this unforgettable episode of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this February 6, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a lively and unscripted panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by special guests Christopher Morley, the acclaimed author of Kitty Foyle, and Ruth Hussey, the charming star of The Philadelphia Story. Together, the panel tackles an eclectic mix of trivia, poetry, and fashion insights.Listeners are treated to discussions on poetic pronouns, famous paintings inspired by music, and the curious definitions of costumes like “pillbox hats” and “chartreuse faille.” With sharp wit and intellectual banter, the guests explore everything from Shakespearean lines to Rubens’ artistic preferences. Ruth Hussey’s graceful humor and Christopher Morley’s literary flair shine in this episode, delivering a delightful mix of trivia and laughs. Tune in for a nostalgic hour of engaging conversation and charming quips! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this January 23, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a session filled with humor and intellect, featuring composer Deems Taylor and critic Alexander Woollcott. Joining regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel explores a delightful range of topics, from famous dinner parties in literature and theater to deciphering poetic riddles and Shakespearean lines.Taylor’s musical insights and Woollcott’s sharp wit shine as they discuss plays like Macbeth and literary works with clever rhymes. From deciphering cryptic quotes to unraveling curious cultural references, this episode is packed with charm, humor, and lively debate. Tune in for an evening of classic trivia and timeless entertainment on Information Please!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this January 16, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts an entertaining evening featuring Russell Crouse, co-author of Life with Father, and sportswriter Paul Gallico, author of The Snow Goose. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel explores questions ranging from literary ruined marriages and heavyweight boxing upsets to musical strolls and famous birds.Crouse’s theatrical expertise and Gallico’s sports knowledge shine as they unravel the reasons behind failed marriages in classic plays and recall iconic moments in boxing history. With lively debates, sharp wit, and a touch of humor, this episode offers a delightful mix of trivia, literature, and music. Tune in for a captivating evening of engaging questions and spirited banter on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this December 26, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts an entertaining trivia session featuring world-famous journalist and author John Gunther, recently returned from Europe. Joined by regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, the panel explores topics ranging from literary heroines known for leaning out of windows to poetic rhymes and historical distances.Gunther’s sharp intellect adds depth to discussions about Rapunzel, Melisande, and Barbara Frietchie, while Levant entertains with musical interludes. The team also tackles challenging questions on historical mistakes and geographic trivia with humor and wit. Tune in for a delightful mix of culture, intellect, and classic radio charm on Information Please!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this December 19, 1941, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a vibrant trivia session with Joseph E. Davies, former U.S. Ambassador to the Soviet Union and author of Mission to Moscow, and returning guest Jan Struther, the celebrated author of Mrs. Miniver. Regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran join in as the panel navigates questions about political immunity, famous lanterns in history, and poetic gates and doors.Davies provides insightful commentary on diplomatic immunity and international law, while Struther charms with her literary wit, tackling riddles about nursery rhymes, famous Toms, and notable quotes from Shakespeare. With lively banter and engaging cultural trivia, this episode offers a delightful mix of humor, intellect, and timeless radio charm. Tune in for a captivating evening on Information Please!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.