In this jam-packed episode, Nick welcomes filmmaker Kyle Henry to discuss his new documentary Time Passages and how audiences can catch it at the Gene Siskel Film Center in Chicago.

Then, film critics Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy join the show to break down some of the standout films from the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and review a few new releases, including the horror-comedy Companion.

Later, Esmeralda Leon and Nick dive into surprising stories of actors who turned down iconic roles—plus, how Penelope Ann Miller may have taken some questionable career advice from Nick. They wrap things up by sampling a classic, time-honored snack.  [Ep320]

Nick welcomes TV critic Dan Fienberg back to the podcast to review new shows like The Couple Next Door and Paradise, along with a few standout documentaries from the Sundance Film Festival, including Predators, which dives into the TV show To Catch a Predator, and Pee-Wee As Himself, an exploration of Paul Reubens and his iconic character. Nick and Dan also chat about Saturday Night Live and share their own unforgettable encounters with Gary Busey.

Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to talk about weird dreams, high school memories, Valentine’s Day, and the odd phenomenon of meeting celebrities in the bathroom. They wrap things up with a taste of a unique historical snack.  [Ep319]

Nick welcomes “The Movie Mom” Nell Minow to the podcast to discuss the latest news from Washington, the freshly announced 2025 Oscar nominations, the streaming SNL 50: Beyond Saturday Night 4-part special, and a look back at the Best Movies of 2024.

Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to dive deeper into Oscar chatter, share thoughts on Jean-Claude Van Damme, and swap celebrity encounter stories, including a fantastic listener-submitted tale involving Penn and Teller. They also chat about how South Park continues to be brilliant after more than 25 years and taste another unique snack from Universal Yums. [Ep318]

Nick welcomes the incredible and legendary character actor Stephen Tobolowsky back to the podcast for another classic visit filled with unforgettable stories and engaging conversation. Tobo shares tales from his career, including a memorable moment with Robert Altman involving a bush, and talks about his latest projects, the joy of playing Romeo, and his upcoming trips to Woodstock and Chicago to celebrate Groundhog Day and honor the late, great Harold Ramis.

Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to chat about recent TV shows, taste some fascinating historical snacks, and dive into a discussion about how movies and TV sometimes intentionally troll fans and critics. It’s a fun and lively episode with plenty of laughs and insights! [Ep317]

Nick welcomes film critics Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy to review the latest movie releases, including the real-life thriller September 5, the new adaptation of the classic monster tale Wolf Man, the urban comedy One of Them Days, and Netflix’s action-comedy Back in Action, marking the return of Cameron Diaz.

Then, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to answer subscriber questions and share hilarious celebrity encounter stories, featuring Fabio (the chef, not the long-haired guy), Ronnie James Dio, and Ice Cube. They also embark on the puzzling mission of figuring out who that guy is who isn’t Jim Carrey.

It’s a fun mix of reviews, laughs, and quirky conversations! [Ep316]

Nick welcomes TV critic Dan Fienberg from The Hollywood Reporter to discuss the ongoing fire emergency in L.A. and review some new shows, including Going Dutch with Denis Leary, The Pitt starring Noah Wyle, Tim Allen’s sitcom Shifting Gears, and Netflix’s new western series American Primeval. They also chat about the Golden Globes and Nikki Glaser’s performance as host.

Later, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to talk about long underwear, battling cold weather, and the baffling habit of guys who only wear scarves when it’s 50 below. They also share thoughts on The Sopranos, praise Andrew WK, and try some pine-flavored candy that tastes suspiciously like Vicks VapoRub. [Ep315]

Nick welcomes wrestling expert Keith Lipinski from AAW Pro to discuss the year in pro wrestling. They cover WWE’s surprising move to Netflix, AEW’s struggles with storylines and continuity, and the unforgettable moment when Hulk Hogan was booed out of the building—a true highlight of 2024.

Then, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to answer listener questions and share some hilarious celebrity encounter stories, like Esma spotting John Cusack vaping at a concert and Nick accidentally knocking 80s sex symbol Emma Samms to the ground on an LA street. They also chat about the agony of watching a terrible actor attempt to portray George Burns for 90 excruciating minutes.

To wrap things up, Nick and Esma sample some snacks, including the bold and unusual Haggis-flavored potato chips. [Ep314]

In this “For The People” episode, Nick welcomes the Consumerman Herb Weisbaum to discuss the FTC’s new rule addressing hotel and ticket junk fees. Herb also answers listener questions on topics like debt consolidation, the best shopping apps, finding reliable contractors, handling workplace scams, and more.

Next, Car Guy Tom Appel from Consumer Guide Automotive joins Nick to talk about the new Toyota Telluride, the Buick Envista Avenir, and the upcoming Detroit Auto Show. They also revisit a hilarious 1978 Dodge truck ad and chat about the forgotten Kammback body style.

To wrap things up, Nick and Tom play another round of Starspotter and Mystery Show. It’s an episode packed with useful tips, fun car talk, and a bit of nostalgia! [Ep313]

In this special episode, film critics Erik Childress, Steve Prokopy, and host Nick Digilio unveil their annual lists of The Best and Worst Movies of 2024. The lists feature some genuine surprises, including a few titles that appear on all three lists—sparking lively and fun conversations about the films, trends, standout performances, and much more.

Esmeralda Leon is taking this year-end episode off but will return next time. Wishing everyone a Happy New Year! [Ep312]

Nick welcomes writer Marnie Shure to the podcast for her monthly “Horror Report,” featuring reviews of Thanksgiving and The Visit. They also chat about the upcoming Mortified show, the best food trends of 2024, the weirdest podcasts of the year, and Twizzlers Merry Berry Punch Twists.

Then, Esmeralda Leon joins Nick to fulfill a Steely Dan Magic Megaphone request, continue their snack journey through time, and dive into a lively discussion about New Year’s Eve traditions. Esma also explains the intriguing concept of “Chip Decision Making.” It’s a fun, flavorful, and festive episode! [Ep311]