Merlin, Max, and Alex conclude their run of Top Scallops by eating some gross food and breaking down why reality TV often does not meet our expectations.

Merlin, Max, and Alex respond to some constructive listener feedback before recapping the finale of Top Chef.

Max visits Merlin in his office to talk about structure and change, the downfall of TV, and "magic" shows.

Max and Merlin talk about politics and do some soul searching. And then what happens?

Merlin, Max, and Alex argue about the Oscars and eventually get around to Top Chef.

Merlin and Max bravely take on the tough issues, and Alex doesn't cut anything out.

Merlin and Alex discuss Top Chef's mythic qualities, secrecy around rules of the show, and their cats. Max is away at Hot Dog University.

Special guest Nick Kokonas of three Michelin star restaurant Alinea discusses running a kitchen, the production problems behind Top Chef, and being broth blocked.

Merlin and Max discuss misperceptions of our own creative work, bags of lobster, and why Alex is still mad at Phillip.

Max and Merlin discuss what people mean when they think about inspiration, the finer side of fast food, and mandolin catastrophes.