- feeds
- popular
- recent
- reader
- about
- story
- technologies
- what is rss
- connect
- dmca
- contact
- Feed Preview The Dinner Party Download
Introducing: Not Lost
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 o...
https://omny.fm/shows/not-lost/brendan-francis-newnam-is-not-lost
Introducing Safe For Work
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.”...
How to Behave: Celebrity Edition
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 celebritie...
How to Behave: Comedy Edition
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 he...
How to Behave: Food Edition
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 calli...
400: The Last Supper – LIVE in Seattle!
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 fr...
The 2017 All-Food Show
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 the...
269: Mel Brooks, Greta Gerwig, and AC Newman
Encore Broadcast: Comedy legend Mel Brooks reanimates “Young Frankenstein” then offers priceless etiquette advice (warning: may include death threats, flatulence, gallows humor, and uncontro...
The Thank You Show
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...
399: Tig Notaro, Jon Batiste, and Real American Food
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...
398: Abbi Jacobson, Whitney Cummings, and More Wonder Women
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...
Speakeasy Special: DPD News and Comic Relief with Whitney Cummings
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...
397: Willem Dafoe, Depeche Mode, Carla Hall Shares Her Grandmother’s Cornbread Recipe
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 ...
Double Take: Joel Kim Booster Reflects on the Evolution of His Career… and His Pony Stylist Dreams
(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-on...
396: ‘Blade Runner 2049’ director Denis Villeneuve, Brendan and Tobin Low Take Manhattan
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...
395: Shania Twain, Sterling K. Brown, Cheese Tea
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...
Dinner For One: Sterling K. Brown (‘This Is Us’) Enjoys Crying as Much as You Do
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 ...
Speakeasy Special: Depeche Mode, Margaret Cho, Flying Lotus
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!) ...
394: Margaret Cho, Michael McDonald, And We Cover Your Kvass
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 murd...
393: Jesmyn Ward, Matt Berninger, and Future Islands’ Pet-Friendly Playlist
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 ...
392: Lake Bell, Ted Leo, and Not Dumplings
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 tun...
The Dinner Party Sandbox Series: Below-the-Line TV Special
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’ i...
The Dinner Party Sandbox Series: Listener Letters
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 w...
384: Kathryn Hahn, Tituss Burgess, Mac DeMarco
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 hi...
391: The 2017 All-Icebreaker Episode
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-lin...
374: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ottessa Moshfegh, Beer Porridge
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 Vir...
390: Flying Lotus, Kyle Mooney, Teju Cole, And a Chill Playlist to Beat the Heat
“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...
389: Alan Alda, Mitski, and a $12 Million Card Trick
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 playli...
Speakeasy Special: Vinyls, Tyson(s) and Bears!
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...
388: Alison Brie GLOWs, Samin Nosrat on acid, & more
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...
Look Up and Listen!
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 —...
Dinner for One: Giancarlo Esposito, Master Character Actor… and One-Time Aspiring Reiki Master
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,” “...
346: Saoirse Ronan, Cameron Diaz, Solomon Georgio
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...
386: Damon Lindelof, Phoenix, Farewell to Frank Deford
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 Ferr...
Dinner for One: Damon Lindelof, Creator of ‘Lost’ and ‘The Leftovers,’ Goes Hot Tubbing With Rico
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. Y...
385: Paul Feig, Samantha Irby, Danger Mouse & Sam Cohen
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**c...
Dinner for One: Paul Feig, Champion of Female Friendships… And Walking Sticks
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 entertain...
384: Kathryn Hahn, Tituss Burgess, Mac DeMarco
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… In...
Speakeasy Special: Charlamagne Tha God, Aimee Mann, Thomas Middleditch
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 i...
320: Peter Capaldi, Paul Scheer, Shamir
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… Fil...
383: The 2017 All-Music Episode
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 A...
382: Charlamagne tha God, John Ridley, Feist
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 direc...
381: Thomas Middleditch, Justin Simien, Cold War Kids
“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 No...
Speakeasy Special: Sasheer Zamata of ‘SNL,’ Danny Boyle, Gillian Jacobs
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 unaire...
Episode 350: Rashida Jones, Yo-Yo Ma, Tegan and Sara
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 exi...
380: Aimee Mann, Hank Azaria, Jason Jones
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 s...
379: Katie Couric, Prentice Penny, Jens Lekman (w/ guest host Lauren Ober)
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 ...
378: Danny Boyle, RuPaul, Alan Tudyk
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 ...
SXSW Speakeasy Special: RuPaul, Rachel Bloom, Adrianne Lenker
(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 updat...
377: Gillian Jacobs, Sam Richardson, Jay Som
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...
376: Pete Holmes, Jordan Peele, Valerie June
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 ...
Dinner for One: Jordan Peele Reflects on the Real Horrors at the Heart of ‘Get Out’
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 someon...
375: Damien Chazelle, George Saunders, Rhiannon Giddens, Menu Mysteries
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...
374: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ottessa Moshfegh, Beer Porridge
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 Vir...
373: Rachel Bloom, Steve Aoki, James Baldwin in His Own Words
“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 m...
Speakeasy Special: Ava DuVernay, Barry Jenkins, Steve Jones
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 icebreake...
358: America Ferrera, Norm Macdonald, Dinosaur Jr.
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 ...
372: Brit Marling, Cristela Alonzo, Aravind Adiga
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 Class...
371: Ava DuVernay, Steve Jones, Pancake Cheesesteak
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 ...
370: Mike Mills, Weyes Blood, the Crazy Cat Behind ‘Krazy Kat’
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 Post...
Best of 2016: Saoirse Ronan, Guillermo del Toro, Jamila Woods
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 Tay...
The 2016 Holiday Special: Zooey Deschanel & M. Ward, Alton Brown, Nick Offerman
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… “...
367: Barry Jenkins, Gael Garcia Bernal, Lucy Dacus
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...
Speakeasy Special: Anthony Bourdain, Jamila Woods, Rick Astley
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 fe...
DPD Holiday Special Special: Darryl ‘DMC’ McDaniels, Fran Lebowitz, Macklemore
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 hea...
366: Anthony Bourdain, Mackenzie Davis, Kurt Wagner
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 real...
The 2016 All-Food Show
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 k...
Episode 354: Kristen Bell, Sharon Jones, Junius Meyvant
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...
364: Davy Rothbart, Annabelle Gurwitch, Gustavo Arellano, Demi Adejuyigbe
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…...
363: Nick Offerman, Emily Witt, Rick Astley
“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”...
362: The 2016 All-Book Episode
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 Junge...
349: Barney Frank, Anna Chlumsky, Hailu Mergia
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 l...
361: Kelly Reichardt, Kevin Hart, Chris Thile
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 Co...
360: Rebecca Hall, Jane Lynch, How To Dress Well
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 et...
359: Seth Meyers, Maureen Dowd, Eric Andre, Phoebe Robinson
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 Pho...
Debate Party Download “InstaPod!” Feat. Maureen Dowd
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...
Episode 343: The ALL-TV Episode
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 (“Silico...
Episode 358: America Ferrera, Norm Macdonald, Dinosaur Jr.
“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, “Bas...
Episode 357: Guillermo del Toro, Dave Barry, Jamila Woods
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 Florid...
Episode 356: Craig Robinson, Angel Olsen, and Sake Karaoke
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”– ...
Episode 347: Colin Farrell, Maria Bamford, Frankie Cosmos
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… ...
Episode 355: The 2016 All-Icebreaker Episode
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 tin...
Episode 326: Allison Janney, Norman Lear, John Mulaney
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...
Speakeasy Special: Food Fight with Jim Gaffigan, ‘The Sporkful,’ and ‘Nerdette’
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 sq...
Episode 342: Nicholas Hoult, Tatiana Maslany, Duncan Sheik
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...
Episode 354: Kristen Bell, Sharon Jones, Junius Meyvant
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...
Episode 353: Jim Gaffigan, Emma Cline, Anna Meredith
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 n...
Episode 352: Shiri Appleby, Jessi Klein, Wyatt Cenac
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...
Episode 339: Viola Davis, Alan Cumming, Dave Navarro
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 ...
Episode 351: Anna Kendrick, D.A. Pennebaker, Fantastic Negrito
“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 ...
Episode 350: Rashida Jones, Yo-Yo Ma, Tegan and Sara
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 sen...
Speakeasy Special: Sam Heughan, Dick Cavett, Saoirse Ronan, Opus Moreschi
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 an...
Episode 349: Barney Frank, Anna Chlumsky, Hailu Mergia
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) progr...
Episode 307: Alison Bechdel, Chuck Palahniuk, Colleen
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...
Episode 328: Ian McKellen, Cindy Crawford, Wine Crime
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 pytho...
Episode 348: Sam Heughan, Sebastian Junger, Moshe Kasher and Natasha Leggero
“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...
Episode 347: Colin Farrell, Maria Bamford, Frankie Cosmos
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 activis...
Speakeasy Special: Ellie Kemper, Cameron Esposito, Michael McKean, Emmy the Great
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 ti...
Episode 252: Marc Maron, Philippe Petit, and Soylent
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...
Episode 346: Saoirse Ronan, Cameron Diaz, Solomon Georgio
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 ...
Episode 345: Jessica Williams, Dick Cavett, Michael McKean
“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 hi...
Episode 344: Anderson Cooper, Nahnatchka Khan, Parquet Courts
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 t...
Episode 318: Salman Rushdie, Alice Cooper, Carly Rae Jepsen
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 Vampire...
Episode 343: The ALL-TV Episode
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”) recom...
Episode 342: Nicholas Hoult, Tatiana Maslany, Duncan Sheik
“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...
341: Daniel Clowes, Cameron Esposito, Quilt
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… ...
340: Jeff Nichols, Lauren Weedman, Tindersticks
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,...
Speakeasy Special #6: Alan Cumming, Adam McKay, Dave Navarro
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 ...
Episode 329: Alicia Vikander, Randall Munroe, EL VY
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...
Episode 339: Viola Davis, Alan Cumming, Dave Navarro
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...
Episode 338: The NOTscars Special
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...
Episode 337: Adam McKay, George Miller, Santigold
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 spirit...
Episode 336: Jason Schwartzman, Jenny Slate, Father John Misty, Lena Waithe
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 She...
Speakeasy Special #5
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 ...
Episode 323: Olivia Wilde, Elvis Costello, Paul F. Tompkins
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 re...
Episode 325: Brie Larson, Gloria Steinem, Raury
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 give...
Episode 315: Jason Segel, Diablo Cody, and Three Cool Cats
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...
Best of 2015: Carrie Brownstein, Oscar Isaac, Shamir
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 Shami...
Episode 331: Gael Garcia Bernal, Molly Crabapple, Hannibal Buress
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 do...
2015 DPD Holiday Special: Darryl ‘DMC’ McDaniels, Fran Lebowitz, Macklemore
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 H...
Episode 329: Alicia Vikander, Randall Munroe, EL VY
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 qua...
Episode 328: Ian McKellen, Cindy Crawford, Wine Crime
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...
Episode 311: Joe Manganiello, Devendra Banhart, Joy Williams
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 ...
The 2015 All-Food Show
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 tooth...
Episode 326: Allison Janney, Norman Lear, John Mulaney
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 ...
Episode 325: Brie Larson, Gloria Steinem, Raury
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 N...
Episode 324: Carrie Brownstein, T.J. Miller, Colin Hanks
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 (m...
Speakeasy Special #4
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 ...
Episode 310: Al Pacino, Adam Scott & Jason Schwartzman, Flo Morrissey
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...
Episode 323: Olivia Wilde, Elvis Costello, Paul F. Tompkins
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...
Episode 322: Tony Bennett & Bill Charlap, Kurt Vile, J. Kenji López-Alt
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 ...
Episode 321: Run The Jewels, Elizabeth Gilbert, Pauline Black
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 Eliza...
Episode 320: Peter Capaldi, Paul Scheer, Shamir
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...
2015 LA Podfest Bonus: Paul Scheer, Aisha Tyler, Ann Friedman
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?“) explai...
Episode 291: Eddie Redmayne, Issa Rae, Andrew Jarecki
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 … Swe...
Episode 319: Emily Mortimer, Julie Klausner, Destroyer
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,...
Episode 318: Salman Rushdie, Alice Cooper, Carly Rae Jepsen
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” cre...
316: Uzo Aduba, Yo La Tengo, Doug Aitken
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 soundtr...
Episode 317: Uzo Aduba, Yo La Tengo, Doug Aitken
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 soundtr...
Episode 269: Mel Brooks, Greta Gerwig, and AC Newman
Encore Broadcast: Comedy legend Mel Brooks reanimates “Young Frankenstein” then offers priceless etiquette advice (warning: may include death threats, flatulence, gallows humor, and uncontrol...
Episode 316: The 2015 Icebreaker Episode
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-chan...
Speakeasy Special #3
“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 installm...
Episode 296: Ethan Hawke, Broad City, David Duchovny, Vetiver
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…...
Episode 315: Jason Segel, Diablo Cody, and Three Cool Cats
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 an...
Episode 314: Abigail Spencer, Riki Lindhome, ‘Aqua Teen Hunger Force’
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,” g...
Episode 313: Liev Schreiber, Joshua Oppenheimer, Mark Ronson
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 Ac...
Episode 299: Oscar Isaac, Fran Drescher, Wayne Coyne
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 ...
Episode 312: Tim and Eric, Juan Felipe Herrera, UnREALity TV
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...
Episode 311: Joe Manganiello, Devendra Banhart, Joy Williams
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 Will...
Episode 310: Al Pacino, Adam Scott & Jason Schwartzman, Flo Morrissey
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 ...
Episode 309: Paul Dano, Jackie Collins, Hot Chip
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 m...
Episode 308: Marion Cotillard, Kenny G, High Maintenance
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 res...
Episode 307: Alison Bechdel, Chuck Palahniuk, Colleen
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” a...
Episode 306: Michael Ian Black, Angel Olsen, Marlon James, Lizzo
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 terri...
Episode 305: Blondie, Oscar the Grouch, Thomas Vinterberg
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 et...
Speakeasy Special #2: Remembering Chris Burden
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 ...
Episode 304: Mike Leigh, Gina Rodriguez, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
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 lea...
Episode 303: Amy Schumer, Cokie Roberts, Kurt Cobain in His Own Words
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 documentar...
Episode 302: Mark Ronson, Young Fathers, ‘War Fries’
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 Youn...
Episode 301: The 2015 All-Music Episode
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 A...
Episode 300: DPD Special!
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 ...
Episode 299: Oscar Isaac, Fran Drescher, Wayne Coyne
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 e...
Speakeasy Special #1
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 casua...
Episode 298: Aubrey Plaza, Laura Marling, Scharpling & Wurster
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 shamin...
Episode 297: Zachary Quinto, Sara Schaefer, Leon Bridges
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...
Episode 296: Ethan Hawke, Broad City, David Duchovny, Vetiver
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… Troubad...
Episode 295: Dev Patel, Dave Barry, Lady Lamb
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...
Episode 294: Jason Schwartzman, Weezer, Barbara Kruger, Tenacious D
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...
Episode 293: Titus Welliver, Sleater-Kinney, Tracee Ellis Ross
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 ...
Episode 292: Marion Cotillard, Kenny G, High Maintenance
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...
Episode 291: Eddie Redmayne, Issa Rae, Andrew Jarecki
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 ...
Episode 290: Patricia Arquette, Weird Al, and Jenny Lewis
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 ...
Episode 289: Frank Gehry, Miranda July, Dame Edna
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 butt...
Episode 288: Nick Kroll, Laura Poitras, Eddie Huang
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 Hu...
Episode 287: J.C. Chandor, Mark Duplass, Twerps
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 … F...
Episode 286: Best of 2014
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 fal...
Episode 285: Wes Anderson, Dave Barry, and Real Estate
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 int...
Holiday Bonus: Frolic with Molly Ringwald and Friends
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 st...
Episode 284: B.J. Novak (live!), The Dukes of Hazzard, and Miriam Toews
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 ...
Episode 283: Mike Leigh, Gina Rodriguez, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
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 abou...
Episode 282: Michael Cera, Nick Hornby, and Viv Albertine
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...
Episode 281: All-Food Special 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 Jarmu...
Episode 280: Bryan Ferry, Aasif Mandvi, and Jessie Ware
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 wor...
Episode 279: Anjelica Huston, Gabrielle Hamilton, and Glyn Johns
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 ...
Episode 278: Audra McDonald, Thomas Jefferson, and Haggis in the U.S.A.
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 Th...
Episode 277: Elle Fanning, Gary Shteyngart, and The Sporkful
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 ...
Episode 276: Jason Schwartzman, Weezer, Barbara Kruger, Tenacious D
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 art...
Episode 275: Joel Edgerton, Justin Simien, and Banks
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 Ju...
Bonus Podcast: The After-Dinner Party Download
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 responsi...
Episode 274: Jenny Slate, John Waters, and First Aid Kit
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’ ...
Episode 273: Jeffrey Tambor, Perfume Genius, and Quincy Jones
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 Clar...
Episode 272: Mia Wasikowska, Nick Frost, and Interpol
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...
Episode 271: Bill Hader, Hiss Golden Messenger, and Betty Halbreich
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 Cos...
Episode 270: James McAvoy, Jon Favreau, and Emma Straub
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 v...
Episode 269: Mel Brooks, Greta Gerwig, and AC Newman
This week: Comedy legend Mel Brooks reanimates “Young Frankenstein” then offers priceless etiquette advice (warning: may include death threats, flatulence, gallows humor, and uncontrollable ...
Episode 268: Daniel Radcliffe, Benjamin Booker, and ‘The Narcissist Next Door’
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 fo...
Episode 267: Elisabeth Moss, Alice Waters, George Takei, Jon Wurster
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 Dag...
Episode 266: Kevin Spacey, Ruth Reichl, Todd Snider and Elephant
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...
Episode 265: Pharrell, Carrie Brownstein & Fred Armisen, and Much MØ
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 ‘Ha...
Special Live Performance from Teenage Fanclub!
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 ba...
Special Live Performance from Teenage Fanclub!
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 ba...
Episode 264: Margaret Atwood, Tim Gunn, and Hulk Hogan: Hero
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’...
Episode 263: Bill Nye, David Crosby, and Our Big Party in Big Sur
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 ...
Episode 262: Scarlett Johansson, Billy Eichner, and Slint
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...
Episode 261: Patricia Arquette, Weird Al, and Jenny Lewis
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 ...
Episode 260: Audra McDonald, Thomas Jefferson, and Haggis in the U.S.A.
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 Thom...
Episode 259: Rich Sommer, Jackie Collins, and Roger Ebert, Remembered
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...
Bonus: Steve Martin, in Conversation – From Scruggs to Jagger
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 musica...
Episode 258: Jonah Hill, House of Cards, Luxury Toast
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...
Episode 257: Jenny Slate, John Waters, and First Aid Kit
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’...
Episode 256: Harry Dean Stanton, Patricia Lockwood, and Hamilton Leithauser
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 ...
Episode 255: Steve Coogan, Hugh Bonneville, B.J. Novak, and “Broad City” BFFs
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 ...
Episode 254: James McAvoy, Jon Favreau, and Wearing Your Food
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… Emm...
Episode 253: Conor Oberst, Colson Whitehead, and Freakonomics
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 …. Colso...
Episode 252: Marc Maron, Philippe Petit, and Soylent
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 explor...
Episode 251: Kevin Spacey, Ruth Reichl, Todd Snider and Elephant
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 p...
The 2014 Icebreaker Episode
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 stuf...
Episode 250: Daniel Radcliffe, Lars Ulrich, and Elizabeth Gilbert
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 2014 All-Icebreaker Special
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 court...
Episode 249: Scarlett Johansson, Billy Eichner, and Slint
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 e...
Episode 248: Jim Jarmusch, Lavender Country, and Horseradish Hazards
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 brough...
Episode 247: Amy Schumer, Errol Morris, & The War on Drugs
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...
Episode 246: Toni Collette, Bill Callahan, and Oil Balls
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 S...
Episode 245: Steve Martin, Stradivariuses, and Switchel
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 ce...
Episode 244: Wes Anderson, Dave Barry, and the Sweet Sounds of Real Estate
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...
Episode 243: Pharrell, Carrie Brownstein & Fred Armisen, and Much MØ
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 ‘Ha...
Episode 242: Oscar Isaac, Mads Mikkelsen, and Vermouth Strikes Back
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 brig...
Episode 241: Stephen Malkmus, Doughnuts for Groughnups, and Oscar’s Finest “Act”
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 sophi...
Episode 240: Jonah Hill, House of Cards and Luxury Toast
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...
Episode 239: Steve Coogan, Hugh Bonneville, B.J. Novak, and “Broad City” BFFs
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 ...
Episode 238: Brie Larson, Baz Luhrmann, and Nomnomnom-enclature
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 Vásq...
Episode 237: Zoe Kazan, Jackie Collins, and Thinking Outside the Pizza Box
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… Act...
Episode 236: Timothy Olyphant, Rosanne Cash, and Carl Hiaasen’s Pizza Surprise
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 ...
Episode 235: Lupita Nyong’o, Gary Shteyngart, and Rust Belt Restos
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 Tony...
Episode 234: Best of 2013
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, Marg...
Episode 233: Liev Schreiber, Wild Belle, and Cheese Drama
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 Gol...
Episode 232: Jeremy Renner, Nancy Sinatra, and Billy Collins
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 ...
Episode 231: Geoffrey Rush, and Aubrey Plaza & LeVar Burton LIVE
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...
Episode 230: Oscar Isaac, Mads Mikkelsen, and Vermouth Strikes Back
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 o...
Episode 229: The 2013 All-Food Episode
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? Lidi...
Episode 228: Kevin Hart, Aisha Tyler, and Frozen Beer
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...
Episode 227: Stephen Fry, Gail Simmons, and Daniel Boulud
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…...
Episode 226: Toni Collette, Bill Callahan, and Oil Balls
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 S...
Episode 225: Jessica Chastain, Dave Barry, and Joy(ful) Division
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… ...
Episode 224: The 2013 All-Movie Episode
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” mak...
Episode 223: Bob Odenkirk, Linda Thompson, and Peaches Teaches
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 part...
Episode 222: Dane DeHaan, Anna Calvi, and the Modernist Maestro
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...
Episode 221: Daniel Radcliffe, Lars Ulrich, and Elizabeth Gilbert
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 pl...
Episode 221: Daniel Radcliffe, Lars Ulrich, and Elizabeth Gilbert
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 pl...
Episode 220: Margaret Atwood, Gunn Culture, and Hulk Hogan: Hero
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) spin...
Episode 219: Colin Firth, Bobby Flay, and Molly Ringwald’s Vault
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 set...
Episode 218: Jonathan Lethem, Alt-J, and the Fab Four’s Freda
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...
Episode 217: Arctic Monkeys, Van Jones, and Fashion Asylums
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 ...
Episode 216: Brie Larson, Baz Luhrmann, and Nomnomnom-enclature
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-traffick...
Episode 215: Eva Mendes, Julia Sweeney, and Blushing Stomachs
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 y...
Episode 214: David Oyelowo, Ricky Skaggs, and a Gun for Breakfast
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 od...
Episode 213: Lisa Kudrow, Franz Ferdinand, and Bug Bars
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...
Episode 212: Liev Schrieber, Wild Belle, and Cheese Drama
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...
Episode 211: Laura Dern, Billy Bragg, and Bite-Sized Giants
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 Bi...
Episode 210: Andrew Bujalski, Andrea Martin, and Fishy Business
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 nove...
Episode 209: Herb Alpert, Chuck Klosterman, and Big Stars
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 te...
Episode 208: Kevin Hart, Aisha Tyler, and Frozen Beer
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 sc...
Episode 207: Natalie Cole, Ralph Nader, and Rogue Soundwaves
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 … ...
Episode 206: Greta Gerwig, Questlove, and Drinkable Spam
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 ...
Episode 205: Sofia Coppola, Jonathan Goldstein, Zombies and blooood
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 ...
Episode 204: Ellen Page, Colum McCann, and Miraculous Fruits
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 C...
Episode 203: Dan Savage, Jessica Walter, and the Kings of Summer
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 S...
Episode 202: Andrea Riesborough, Fitz and the Tantrums, and Saving Italy
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 ...
Episode 201: James Franco, Paul Theroux, and a Cowardly Display
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...
Our Bicentennial All-Icebreaker Episode
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 ...
Episode 200: Noah Baumbach, David Alan Grier, Temple Grandin, and Kids Comix
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 Gr...
Episode 199: Michael Shannon, Paul Theroux, and Hannibal’s Homies
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...
Episode 198: Colin Firth, Bobby Flay, and Molly Ringwald’s Vault
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 set...
Episode 197: Jamie Foxx, Macklemore, and Gollum’s Grandparents
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 & R...
Episode 195: Eva Mendes, Julia Sweeney, and Blushing Stomachs
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 ro...
Episode 194: Taiye Selasi, Andy Cohen, and Alt-J’s Pagan Playlist
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 p...
Episode 193: Harmony Korine, Chris O’Dowd, and Ramen Ravioli
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 icon...
Episode 192: Anna Kendrick, Kevin Nealon, and the Perks of Being a Pittsburgher
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 Stephe...
Episode 191: Laura Dern, Billy Bragg, and Bite-Sized Giants
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...
Episode 190: Matthew Goode, Dick Cavett, and Tiki Talk
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 cinemati...
Episode 189: David France, Jackie Collins, and Vampire Lemonade
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 ...
Episode 187: Miguel, Rachel Dratch, and Seduction Instruction
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...
Episode 186: Jessica Chastain, Dave Barry, Jimmy Cliff, and Joy(ful) Division
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...
Episode 185: William H. Macy, Not Sauce, and the Original Animal
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 teac...
Episode 184: Michael Apted, Sundancing, and Coaster Cocktails
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...
Episode 183: David O. Russell, George Saunders, and Experiments with Cale
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 we...
Episode 182: The Best of 2012
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 ro...
Episode 181: Patti Smith, Bryan Cranston, and Drinkable Shrubs
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-...
Episode 180: Jamie Foxx, Macklemore, and Gollum’s Grandparents
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 & R...
Episode 179: Beck, Modern Family Values, and Love’s Songs
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 “Chr...
Episode 178: Fred Armisen, Fishy Business, and Kinky Etiquette
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 ...
Episode 177: Tony Hawk, Benh Zeitlin & Incorrigible Ethels
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 o...
Episode 176: The All-Food Episode
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 mic...
Episode 175: Wyatt Cenac, Tilly and the Wall, and Kubrick’s Kitties
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...
Episode 174: Jon Ronson, Eric Idle, and Flying Leotards
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 pa...
Episode 173: The All-Book Episode
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...
Episode 172: Stephin Merritt, Vengeance Eating, and Alka-hol
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 ...
Episode 171: Ben Gibbard, Jens Lekman, and Fake Presidents
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-ma...
Episode 170: Martin McDonagh, Ed Asner, and Real American Cheese
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… ...
Episode 169: Anna Kendrick, Kevin Nealon, and the Perks of Being a Pittsburgher
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 Stephe...
Episode 168: Tim Gunn, Rian Johnson, and Salman Rushdie
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 aut...
Episode 167: Martin Amis, Divine Comedies, and the Mother of Bad Ideas
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 serv...
Episode 166: Anjelica Huston, Doomsday Planes, and Things about Chicken Wings
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… “...
Episode 165: Junot Diaz, One-Shot Wonders, and Orange Wine
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 ...
Episode 164: Marjane Satrapi, Fran Lebowitz, and Pizza Brains
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...
Episode 163: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Molly Ringwald, and Takis
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...
Episode 162: Gary Oldman, Top Chef: Etiquette, and Instant History
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 swee...
Episode 161: Gustavo Dudamel, Rob Corddry, and Terms of Service
This week: Classical music superstar Gustavo Dudamel conducts an interview… “Children’s Hospital” creator/star Rob Corddry prescribes etiquette advice… “Schott’s Miscellany” autho...
Episode 160: Rashida Jones, LeVar Burton, and Parody Picks
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 B...
Episode 159: Zoe Kazan, Passion Pit and New Wave Fish Sandwiches
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 meda...
Episode 158: Simon Amstell, Rodriguez, and Dyn-o-mite Tips
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 fro...
Episode 157: Marcus Samuelsson, Cheryl Strayed, and (Breaking) Bad Romances
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 he...
Episode 156: Wim Wenders, Liszt Lists, and Live Long and Proper
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...
Episode 155: The All-Movie Episode
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 ...
Episode 154: Benh Zeitlin, All-American Etiquette, and the Automat
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… Actres...
Episode 153: Patti Smith, Bryan Cranston, and Drinkable Shrubs
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-...
Episode 152: Stephen Merchant, Demon Children, and The War on Drugs
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 ...
Episode 151: Michael Apted, Buddy Guy, and Defordometrics
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 ma...
Episode 150: James Franco, Paul Theroux, and a Cowardly Display
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 S...
Episode 149: Richard Linklater, Christopher Buckley, and Independent Spirits
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 ...
Episode 148: Santigold, Manly Manners and a Pilgrim’s Process
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 cou...
Episode 147: The All-Music Episode
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 se...
Episode 146: Mike D, Taco USA, and Ballet Lessons
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…...
Episode 145: Emily Blunt, Proper Partying, and SubliminalsexScience
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… Bestsel...
Episode 144: Greta Gerwig, Questlove, and Liquid Matchsticks
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 misbehav...
Episode 143: Spring Break…with Michelle Williams and GZA
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 W...
Episode 142: The Duplass Brothers, Val Kilmer-Twain, and the Oysteress
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… Po...
Episode 141: Rick Moody, Shower Muses, and Snail Eggs
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 w...
Episode 140: Ewan McGregor, Pretzel Dumplings, and Happy Endings
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 H...
Episode 139: Jon Hamm, Irish Latkes, and Bottled Etiquette
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 ...
Episode 138: Stephin Merritt, Vengeance Eating, and Alka-hol
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 ...
Episode 137: Geoff Dyer, Bug Juice, and Damn Good Advice
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 Ge...
Episode 136: Michel Hazanavicius, New Fruit, and Undead Presidents
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...
Episode 135: The Shins, Lovable Fools, and Boardwalk Empires
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 ...
Episode 134: Anjelica Huston, Doomsday Planes, and Things about Chicken Wings
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 quie...
Episode 133: Chairlift, Megadeth on Etiquette, and the Food Olympics
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 Band...
Episode 132: Tim and Eric, Bone Luging, and Lucinda Williams
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 w...
Episode 131: Stephen Merchant, Demon Children, and The War on Drugs
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 epilo...
Episode 130: Wim Wenders, Liszt Lists, and Live Long and Proper
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… Ka...
Episode 129: The List Show
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 i...
Episode 128: The Best of 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...
Episode 127: Patton Oswalt, Dinner for Breakfast, & Pre-Holiday Post Etiquette
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 t...
Episode 126: Gary Oldman, Top Chef: Etiquette, and Instant History
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 th...
Episode 125: Michelle Williams, Inspired Vodka, and GZA the Genius
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 Livingst...
Episode 124: David Cronenberg, Miranda July’s PennySavior, and Real Estate in Paris
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 ...
Episode 123: John Jeremiah Sullivan, Dick Cavett-iquette, and Wild Flag
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...
Episode 122: Sir Richard Branson, Jonathan Lethem, and Masters of Etiquette
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-...
Episode 121: Cyndi Lauper, Thanksgiving’s New Black, and Punk Rock Etiquette
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...
Episode 120: Chuck Klosterman, Diabolical Hawkes, and Zagats in the Zeitgeist
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’ rooft...
Episode 119: Antonio Banderas, Old-School Candy, and Music from a Non-belieber
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...
Episode 118: Little Dragon and Big Small Talk
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 b...
Episode 117: Etiquette with Jackie Collins & more from the DPD Test Kitchen
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 kitche...
Episode 116: Jeanne Darst, Gary Hustwit, and the DPD Hotline
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 ...
Episode 115: What if the DPD was an hour-long show?
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 ...
Episode 114: Steve James, Must-See Docs, and Jens Lekman
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. Pl...
Episode 113: Gus Van Sant, Government Lunches, and Glutenny
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. P...
Episode 112: Terry Allen, Swedish Rights, and Sissy Bounce
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’...
Episode 111: TV on the Radio, Moonicorns, and Sophisticake
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 ...
Episode 110: Miranda July, a Stolen Smile, and the Waterguns of Brixton
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 Da...
Episode 109: The Icebreaker Episode (2nd Ed.)
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 Jon...
Episode 108: Don Cheadle, Shredding History, and Speculoos
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,...
Episode 107: Brit Marling & Mike Cahill, Toothless Tickets, and the Confederate Cleopatra
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 laug...
Episode 106: Errol Morris, Mammoth Cheese, and 4000 Years Of Food
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 Lap...
Episode 105: Shabazz Palaces, Disco Bashes, and Cola Wars 2.0
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 g...
Episode 104: Shepard Fairey, Menu Mania, and Sliced Bread
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 phe...
Episode 103: Bonnie Jo Campbell, 2nd Class Babies, and Getting Outta Dodge
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 Gallaw...
Episode 102: John C. Reilly, Lady Umpires, and the ‘Buch
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 Pu...
Episode 101: Richard Ayoade, Translantic Transfusion, and Jagger Elks
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 “Ag...
Episode 100: Randy Newman, DPD History, and the 100-Year-Old Egg
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 (wit...
Episode 99: Michael Sheen, a Tax Streak, and Summer Sandwitches
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 br...
Episode 98: Fleet Foxes, Pac-Man Pizza, and a Michelin Man
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 stre...
Episode 97: Anton Yelchin, Spider-Dan, and Lazycakes
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
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...
Episode 95: Demetri Martin, Robber in Rio, and Kissing Machines
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 rock...
Episode 94: Dinner Party Etiquette with Elaine Stritch
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 Wh...
Episode 93: An East-Over Feast
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...
Episode 92: Vera Farmiga, Going Dutch, and the Birth of Spam
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...
Episode 91: Greta Gerwig, Ping Pong Politics, and the Sleep Elite
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...
Episode 90: Bellflower, Guillotin’s Machine, and the Cheesesteak Challenger
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 m...
Episode 89: Neil Strauss, Cold (Con)fusion, and Rabbit Rex
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 Eye...
Episode 88: Willie Nelson, Frontier Justice, and Tex-Next Cuisine
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 fro...
Episode 87: Cary Fukunaga, Historic Headaches, and a Painless Brunch
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 B...
Episode 86: Gabrielle Hamilton, The Peacemaker, and Smokeavores
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 f...
Episode 85: Carrie Brownstein, Murdered Moose, and God’s Sporks
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… an...
Episode 84: Karen Russell, Paar vs. NB(W)C and Stuck-up Employees
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...
Episode 83: Chris Burden, Small Weddings, and Sushi Burritos
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 ...
Episode 82: John Lithgow, Undying Birds, and Lost H-Bombs
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 Motorhe...
Episode 81: Dan Bejar, Big In Japan, and Double Ducks
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. Plu...
Episode 80: Spike Lee, Liquid Smoke, and Prodigious Peppers
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 fr...
Episode 79: Paul Giamatti, Political Animals, and Moby Drinks
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. Pl...
Episode 78: Tennis, Epic Losers, and Happy Birthday
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 ...
Episode 77: The Best of 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...
Episode 76: Sofia Coppola, Air-ial Assaults, and Superflops
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 fro...
Episode 75: Christian Lander, See No Weevil, and Stealth Miso
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 m...
Episode 74: Kid Cudi, Starstruck, and Reindeer a la Palin
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 tr...
Episode 73: Diplo, Tofu U, and Pong Pong
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” ...
Episode 72: A Three-Course Thanksgiving
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 ...
Episode 71: Sally Hawkins, Fossil Follies, and Chinese Thanksgiving
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 Broo...
Episode 70: Huey Lewis, Le Situation, and The Birth of Football
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 suppl...
Episode 69: Chris Morris, Black Bart, and Getting Your Goat
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 Castle...
Episode 68: Noomi Rapace, World War Welles, and Legitish Quidditch
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 fro...
Episode 67: Judd Apatow, Beer Tsunamis, and Conflict Cuisine
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 musi...
Episode 66: Paul F. Tompkins, Uncivil Wars, and Tennis Marathons
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
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 ...
Episode 64: Sam Taylor-Wood, Unhappy Happy Meals, Inventions that Suck
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 Deerh...
Episode 63: Davis Guggenheim, Driving then Drinking, The Situation 2.0
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 m...
Episode 62: Dave Eggers, Longshot Journalism, and pseudo-Millionaires
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 fr...
Episode 61: Panda Bear, Bare Naked Faces, and Baked Goods
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
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
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 stre...
Episode 58: Aamir Khan, Volcano Parties, and the Deaf-Teens
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
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
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
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
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, ro...
Episode 53: Sebastian Junger, Evil Machines, WWII Food
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 auth...
Episode 52: Blitzen Trapper, the Throne Stone from Scone, Eating Dirt
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...
Episode 51: Simon Rich, Ali vs. U.S.A., Sweet and Sour Honeymoon
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 wit...
Episode 43: Holly Golightly, Peace, and Sustainable Dinner Parties
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
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
“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* L...
Episode 40: Midlake, Silent Hattie & the Sounds of Ambience
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
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...
Episode 38: Terry Gilliam, Japanese Heists and Cupcakes for Grownups
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...
Episode 37: George Saunders, New Look Turkey Sandwich, Getting Hit On By A Star
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
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
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
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...
Episode 33: Yo La Tengo, Koreanguistics, Killer Greens
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
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
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
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
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
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...
Episode 27: Ed Harcourt, Douglas Corrigan and Nonstaurants
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 no...
Episode 26: Mishna Wolff, Bloody Mary, and Gourmet Coal
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
THIS WEEK: 80′s metal band Anvil forges ahead… Muhammed Ali KO’s the U.S. Army… and Brendan has designs on David Bowie.
Episode 24: Alain De Botton, Mudville, and Parkside Dining
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
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
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
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 wo...
Episode 20: Ondi Timoner, Salt March, Say Cheese!
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
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
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?
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 Ri...
Episode 16: Howard Zinn, Censors, Piggin’ Out
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
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 wi...
Episode 14: Lamont Dozier, Cryonic Cocktail, Korean Tacos
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 languag...
Episode 13: Best of 2008
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...
Episode 12: David Fincher, Tom Jones, Mozzarella
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...
Episode 11: David Heatley, Killer Fog, PB&J
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 ...
Episode 10: Of Montreal, Edison, Bird-munching
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
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...
Episode 8: Robert Wagner, War of the Worlds, Anti-cupcake
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
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 ...
Episode 6: MC Frontalot, The Internets, Fall Food
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
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
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 ...
Episode 3: David Carr, Lolita, Wine Snobs
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
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 ...
Episode 1: The Watson Twins, Dillinger, Hot Sauce
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 pe...