Information Please

Join us for the June 7, 1938, episode of Information Please, where moderator Clifton Fadiman orchestrates another delightful battle of wits between the listening public and a panel of esteemed experts. This week’s lineup includes humorist Franklin P. Adams, science educator Bernard Jaffe, Herald Tribune editor Marcus Duffield, and special guest, sports columnist John Kieran. With $5 on the line for each unanswered question, the panel must tackle trivia on popular songs, sports terms, classic literature, and even quirky science facts.As always, the panelists face the questions live and unprepared, keeping the energy fresh and spontaneous. Will they be able to identify famous literary streets, recall details about American presidents, or match philosophers with rhyming descriptors? Enjoy this lighthearted clash of intellect and humor as these distinguished experts attempt to keep up with the quick-fire questions from across the country. Tune in to see if they emerge victorious or if the public claims the cash! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Christmas Day 1944 broadcast of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads the panel from the Naval Hospital in St. Albans, New York, bringing holiday cheer to service members and listeners alike. Regular experts Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran are joined by special guests Fred Allen, the famed radio comedian, and Judge James G. Wallace of the New York Court of General Sessions. The panel tackles a wide-ranging set of listener-submitted questions covering advertising slogans, classic songs, literary quotations, and colorful moments from theatrical and boxing history. Fred Allen’s sharp wit keeps the room lively, while the experts puzzle through riddles about Gilbert and Sullivan lyrics, the traditional “birthday” of racehorses, and the origins of familiar catchphrases. Highlights include musical clues that lead the panel to sing well-known tunes, humorous speculation about whether one would dare play cards with fictional characters like Clark Kent, and stories from vaudeville and early stage acts involving unusual props—from ham sandwiches to ears of corn. Broadcast in a festive wartime setting and closing with a heartfelt holiday message to servicemen and women, this episode blends trivia, laughter, and seasonal goodwill—capturing the spirit of Christmas with the quick minds and camaraderie that made Information Please a radio classic.

In this February 5, 1945, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by special guests Clifton Webb and Moss Hart, both prominent figures of the stage and screen. The evening blends literary wit, theatrical insight, music, and art in a fast-moving session of cultural trivia and spirited banter. Highlights include a lively debate over animal footprints and toe counts, musical excerpts ranging from Carmen and Faust to Show Boat, and quotations from Shakespeare and other poets. The panel also tackles classic New Yorker cartoons, youthful troublemakers in contemporary plays like Tomorrow the World, The Philadelphia Story, and Junior Miss, and artistic connections linking figures such as Gene Tunney, Alicia Markova, and Earl Sande to painters like George Bellows and Degas. Webb and Hart shine with quick humor and theatrical flair, trading barbs and stories while demonstrating impressive knowledge of opera, literature, and Broadway. With its signature blend of intellectual challenge and show-business sparkle, this episode captures Information Please at its witty and urbane best.

In this October 23, 1944, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes a uniquely cultured panel featuring virtuoso pianist Artur Rubinstein and celebrated author and lecturer Lewis Browne, alongside series regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran. Together, they dive into a rich mix of history, music, and literature, wrapped in the show’s trademark humor and intellectual charm. Highlights include Rubinstein’s musical insights on European royal houses, Browne’s knowledge of philosophers like Spinoza and European monarchies, and a spirited discussion of famous paintings of nudes. The panel also tackles questions on linguistic etymologies, operatic influences, legendary conquerors from Genghis Khan to Napoleon, and literary characters in unlikely judicial roles. Whether parsing poetry about glory or recalling fictional foods with heavenly praise, this episode offers a delightful blend of highbrow wit and cultural curiosity. Don’t miss this wide-ranging and engaging hour of Information Please!

In this September 11, 1944, season premiere of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes poet and Mrs. Miniver creator Jan Struther and actor Alexander Knox—acclaimed for his role as Woodrow Wilson—alongside beloved regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran. Originally slated to appear, Wendell Willkie sends his regrets due to illness, offering a touching note that opens the episode. Highlights include matching musical pieces to aristocratic titles like “Prince,” “Count,” and “King,” revealing the literary and historical depths of terms like “miniver,” and exploring everything from philosophical conflicts and naval history to political trivia. Knox impresses with keen historical knowledge, while Struther charms with literary wit and cross-Atlantic perspective. This episode blends a warm welcome back with cultural insights and humor, kicking off a new season of Information Please with signature flair. Tune in for music, monarchy, and meaningful conversation!

In this March 20, 1944, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman brings a unique political twist to the panel, welcoming Senate Majority Leader Alben W. Barkley of Kentucky and Senator Theodore Green of Rhode Island, alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran. The blend of legislative insight and literary wit makes for an unusually rich and lively episode. The panel tackles a diverse range of questions—from tie votes in government branches and the literary uses of generals' names, to Buddhist immortals and poetic forms like heroic and free verse. Senator Barkley impresses with his deep knowledge of political history and campaign trivia, while Senator Green brings surprising expertise on Buddhist theology and Roman history. Musical moments include identifying presidential campaigns based on themed songs, and the group also delves into colorful phrases like “coffin corner” and “flying coffin.” With a blend of humor, erudition, and political flair, this episode offers a memorable foray into trivia, governance, and culture. Tune in for a statesmanlike spin on intellectual amusement on Information Please!

In this February 28, 1944, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a witty and illuminating panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and special guest Franchot Tone, the accomplished screen actor known for his recent role in Phantom Lady. Together, they explore a lively assortment of cultural and historical trivia with spirited exchanges and laughs. Highlights of the episode include identifying beauty treatments suggested by classic songs, decoding literary proposals in honor of Leap Year, and translating fancy French dishes into their literal meanings—resulting in a menu that features everything from a "pot on the fire" to a "song crown." Tone impresses with his knowledge of American Revolutionary figures and quotes Henley from a past film role. The group also dissects opera serenades, newspaper-named poetry, and unique marital customs from classic literature. Blending charm, intellect, and humor, this episode showcases the panel's chemistry and Franchot Tone’s quick wit. Tune in for a delightful hour of education and entertainment on Information Please!

In this January 24, 1944, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes novelist Elizabeth Janeway and composer and music critic Deems Taylor to join regulars John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams. The panel dives into a rich mix of literature, music, history, and natural science, delivering sharp insights and plenty of laughter. Highlights include literary love triangles featuring Heathcliff, Aeneas, and H. M. Pulham, a musical analysis of how Germany might collapse—by Allied invasion, Russian advance, and revolution—using Beethoven, Lvoff, and Chopin. The experts also identify poets and criminals, from Cellini to Ezra Pound, and explore whimsical poetry lines referencing distance, color, and even baby cereal. Deems Taylor’s musical expertise shines, while Janeway offers literary sharpness and dry wit. With clever banter, historical tidbits, and unexpected knowledge (like kinkajous in bars and butterfly mimicry), this episode offers another brilliant installment of intellectual entertainment on Information Please.

In this June 21, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a spirited panel including Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and special guest Hilary St. George Saunders, the British author and co-writer of Combined Operations. The panel engages in a lively transatlantic exchange covering war operations, British customs, literary figures, and musical trivia. Highlights include detailed discussions of WWII military campaigns such as the Battle of Britain and the Tunisian Campaign, reflections on British parliamentary traditions, and comic interludes about literary drunkards and dairy foods in poetry. Saunders adds a rich historical and cultural perspective, sharing stories from the Allied war effort and offering witty repartee on both British and American quirks. A blend of war-time insight, literary charm, and humor, this episode captures the unique energy of the program during a pivotal time in history. Tune in for a sharp and entertaining half-hour on Information Please!

In this February 12, 1945, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts regulars John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams, alongside two notable guests: best-selling novelist Faith Baldwin and beloved radio humorist Fred Allen. With Allen temporarily taking over as emcee mid-show, the episode blends highbrow wit with comic flair. The panel tackles a curious mix of questions—from ghostly cameos in stories like The Canterville Ghost and Topper, to the peculiar deaths of philosophers (Empedocles into a volcano, Bacon with a chicken). Baldwin and Allen add warmth and sharpness as they explore everything from birds that mimic helicopters to nonsense poetry, war conference cities, and literary pseudonyms. Allen's sharp timing and Baldwin’s literary poise add fresh energy to a game that dances effortlessly between fact and folly. Whether it’s Frank Merriwell’s mythical pitches, the song behind “Pop Goes the Weasel,” or philosophical exits at weddings, this episode offers a rich mix of cleverness and comedy. Tune in for a delightful hour of intellect, absurdity, and vintage radio charm on Information Please!

In this February 19, 1945, episode of Information Please, quizmaster Clifton Fadiman leads the panel with regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by two fascinating guests: foreign correspondent and author John Gunther, and Hollywood director-actor Gregory Ratoff. The conversation takes a cosmopolitan turn as Ratoff offers spirited insight into Russian drinks like kvass and kumis, while the panel navigates masquerading literary figures, wartime capitals, and famous ballet romances—from dancing dolls to lovestruck swans. Ratoff’s rich storytelling and theatrical past provide charming flair, including anecdotes about playing roles from Chekhov to Andreev. Topics include wartime history, Shakespearean characters, literary false accusations, and the significance of Moscow, San Francisco, and Yalta in postwar planning. Whether it’s naming “old men” in poetry, recalling legendary heroines, or identifying the original name of Chicago, this episode blends culture, comedy, and international flavor in one brisk, witty hour. Tune in for a globe-trotting blend of intellect and entertainment on Information Please!

In this December 24, 1945, episode of Information Please, quizmaster Clifton Fadiman leads a spirited panel featuring regulars John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams, joined by distinguished editor and critic John Mason Brown and special guest Boris Karloff, the legendary actor known for his horror roles. The episode flows with wit and curiosity through a variety of challenging topics—from the scientific explanation of spring and neap tides to a literary count of corpses in Shakespearean tragedies. Karloff's macabre charm is on full display as he dives into questions about fictional murders, skulls in literature, and poetic executions. The panel also navigates through history, exploring Channel crossings by Julius Caesar, William the Conqueror, and the D-Day landings, and delves into psychiatry in literature, works of Gilbert and Sullivan, and mythological love stories. With humor, intellect, and just the right touch of the morbid, this holiday broadcast is a delightful blend of education and entertainment. Tune in for skulls, Shakespeare, and the sly commentary of Boris Karloff on Information Please!

In this March 27, 1942, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads a dynamic panel including regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, joined by special guest Wallace R. Deuel, the esteemed journalist and foreign correspondent. The evening features spirited exchanges across history, music, literature, and global affairs. Topics range from the mythic origins of Pandora’s box and the winds of Aeolus to the first presidents of nations such as Turkey, Colombia, and the Philippines. The panel dissects the musical tributes behind Beethoven’s Eroica and Ravel’s Le Tombeau de Couperin, and recalls Roosevelt’s Four Freedoms and World War II communication lines. There's also a lively debate on wines for each course, romantic entanglements of Goethe and Mary Queen of Scots, and instrument-playing conductors like Toscanini. With sharp humor, quick recall, and lively disagreements, this wartime episode blends deep knowledge with entertainment, offering a fascinating glimpse into mid-century intellectual camaraderie on Information Please.

In this January 30, 1948, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes two of the most powerful voices in opera: Wagnerian greats Helen Traubel and Lauritz Melchior. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel delivers a program brimming with musical insights, operatic humor, and classical knowledge. The evening’s highlights include identifying famous delusions in literature, distinguishing dog breeds by size, and recognizing dubbed opera recordings—including one clever pairing of Traubel and Melchior that never actually happened in the studio. The musical stars tackle flower-themed song lyrics, cultural appetizers like smörgåsbord and antipasto, and even a perilous onstage fall during a performance of Siegfried. From parody performances by Florence Foster Jenkins to Melchior’s tale of an operatic plunge, the show strikes a brilliant balance between high art and high comedy. A must-listen for opera lovers and trivia fans alike!

In this July 23, 1940, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes comedic radio genius Fred Allen and acclaimed playwright Howard Lindsay to the panel, alongside regulars John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams. The result is a fast-paced, hilariously unpredictable half-hour brimming with satire, sharp wit, and impressive trivia knowledge. Fred Allen's dry humor and Lindsay's theatrical flair shine through in rounds covering socially elite cities, peculiar birds in baseball, classic American songs, and verbal punchlines from vintage jokes. From dissecting Annie Oakley’s legacy to speculating whether a “million-dollar baby” is rich or just shopping at the five-and-dime, the conversation bounces between cleverness and chaos. Special highlights include a question sent in by Harpo Marx (ten years in the making!), and a baseball-themed bird quiz designed by Kieran himself. Whether you’re a fan of radio legends or trivia with a twist, this episode delivers a rich mix of entertainment and intellect.

In this June 20, 1939, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes a dynamic and delightfully contrasting duo—famed journalist and author John Gunther and comedienne Gracie Allen. Joining regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, the panel dives into trivia with a unique blend of intellect and whimsy. Highlights include a comical exploration of mythical flying figures, political and historical insights into U.S.-Asian relations, poetic musings about babies, and a spirited round of musical and movie trivia. Gracie Allen’s surreal humor and quick wit keep the experts on their toes, while Gunther offers incisive commentary on Far Eastern diplomacy and global affairs. With questions ranging from the ridiculous to the scholarly, and answers delivered with equal parts clarity and chaos, this episode is a true showcase of Information Please’s brilliance. Tune in for an unforgettable hour where highbrow meets hilarity!

In this January 10, 1944, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a dynamic panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, alongside special guests Congressman John M. Coffey and celebrated author and essayist Christopher Morley. The show brims with erudition and wit as the panel tackles an eclectic mix of history, literature, language, and even cosmetics. Highlights include humorous political banter as Congressman Coffey lists edible surnames in Congress, a spirited quiz on famous treaties, and the origins of literary terms like "farce" and "satire." The panel also dives into Latin grammar via Shakespeare, recounts significant historical battles, and explores fictional banking institutions from Dickens to Conan Doyle. Morley’s deep literary knowledge shines, especially in discussions of Sherlock Holmes and poetic etymology. Laced with laughter, learning, and cultural insight, this episode showcases the lively camaraderie and intellectual depth that defines Information Please. Tune in for a charming blend of trivia and timeless banter.

In this January 3, 1944, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes a sharp-witted panel including Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and special guest Louis Bromfield, the Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist and conservationist. The discussion meanders through literary pairings, famous paintings, and even barnyard brawls in classic Information Please fashion. Listeners are treated to thoughtful (and sometimes hilarious) speculation on whether Betsy Trotwood and Sancho Panza would make a good match, debates about cows’ kicking styles, and references to Nietzsche, Dickens, Schubert, and Shakespeare. Bromfield adds a unique rural charm and literary insight, including forgetting his own character, Cassie Struthers, much to the panel's amusement. With banter as bright as ever, this episode delivers an illuminating blend of culture, trivia, and good-humored storytelling. Tune in for an engaging hour that captures the wit and intellectual fun of Information Please!

In this December 27, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a spirited session with panelists John Kieran, Franklin P. Adams, and special guests Leon Henderson, noted New Deal economist and former OPA head, and Jan Struther, poet and creator of “Mrs. Miniver.” The panel tackles a wide array of questions ranging from the etymology of peculiar phrases like “namby-pamby” and “hocus pocus” to discussions of mythological references, famous duos in history and literature, and seasonally themed musical and poetic quizzes. Henderson adds dry wit and unexpected musicality, while Struther charms with her literary knowledge and humor. Highlights include an amusing musical round requiring the panel to sing embedded songs from familiar lyrics, reflections on geopolitical time zones during FDR’s Christmas broadcast, and clever poetry references tied to turkey parts. This episode offers a delightful mix of intellect and entertainment with a wartime flair, providing both levity and learning to listeners across the globe.

In this December 20, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts the ever-engaging panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and special guest Jesse Stuart, celebrated author of Taps for Private Tussie. Hailing from Kentucky, Stuart brings homespun charm and literary insight to the witty exchanges. The panel fields a lively assortment of trivia, ranging from fictional characters and American poets to curious animals and funeral marches in music. Stuart delights with tales of cowbirds, Appalachian traditions, and his poetic influences, while the panel riffs on everything from Steinbeck’s characters to toolshed-worthy book titles. Brimming with humor, culture, and intellect, this episode offers a delightful holiday-season blend of down-home storytelling and erudite repartee. Don’t miss Jesse Stuart’s unique voice and the panel’s merry mischief on Information Please!

In this December 13, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran with two distinguished guests: news commentator Quincy Howe and diplomat-scholar T. F. Tsiang. The panel ricochets from literature to geopolitics—quoting Shakespeare and Confucius, revisiting wartime maps, and trading quips about clocks, conferences, and courtship—while Heinz’s sponsor spots keep the proceedings savory.   Highlights include: authors “about man” (Hamlet’s “What a piece of work,” Confucius via the Analects, and Gilbert & Sullivan’s Princess Ida); territories to be taken from Japan (Mandate islands; Manchuria, Formosa, Pescadores; Guam/Wake); and literary parenthood (Lady Macbeth, Madame Bovary, Peggotty). The crew recalls Lincoln refusing to sack Grant over whiskey, Perry at Nagasaki, and Columbus pressing on; then maps famed journeys (the 622 Hijra from Mecca to Medina; de Soto’s El Dorado; Sir John Franklin’s Northwest Passage). They trace exiles who lived in America—Dr. Sun Yat-sen, Garibaldi (Staten Island), and Trotsky—swap poetic timepieces and “by/to/from sea” lines, tick off wartime conferences (Mena House near Cairo; Quebec’s Château Frontenac; Moscow’s Spiridonovka House), and close with literary lovers who couldn’t quite propose (Cyrano, Sydney Carton, and Miles Standish/John Alden).  

In this December 6, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman presides over a lively panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and special guests Lewis Browne and Nobel Prize–winning novelist Sinclair Lewis. Wit flies as the “friendly enemies” trade barbs and brainpower across literature, language, and legend. Highlights include melodrama in verse from “The Highwayman” to “The Shooting of Dan McGrew,” the origins of everyday words like “goodbye,” “amen,” and “vamoose,” and first names hiding in plain sight (Wilfred Ivanhoe and Dr. John Watson). The panel matches poets to melodies (“Excelsior,” “The Two Grenadiers,” and “Sweet and Low”), unpacks why groups like Rotary, Phi Beta Kappa, and the Masons are so named, and recalls famous figures’ dramatic arrivals in great cities—Lenin’s sealed train to Petrograd, Joseph’s sale into Egypt, and Shakespeare’s footsore London beginnings. Blending quick quips, cultural trivia, and spirited debate, this sparkling half hour delivers classic Information Please charm.

Journey back to the golden age of radio with this lively episode of Information Please, aired on May 17, 1938. Hosted by the witty Clifton Fadiman, this quiz show flips the traditional format by allowing the public to quiz a panel of renowned experts, each one ready to field questions on topics ranging from classical literature and science to history and humor. The esteemed panel for the evening includes Franklin P. Adams (FPA), beloved columnist and humorist; Bernard Jaffe, noted science educator; Marcus Duffield, day editor at the Herald Tribune; and Dr. Harry Overstreet, a philosopher with a knack for practical wisdom.With a $5 prize for each question they fail to answer, the experts must think quickly on their feet. Listeners from across the country send in their toughest questions, creating a delightful battle of wits as the panel faces tricky queries, lighthearted banter, and even a few surprise stumbles. This episode captures the charm and intellectual curiosity that made Information Please a household favorite. Will tonight’s experts come out on top, or will the listeners win the day? Tune in to find out, and enjoy a nostalgic trip to a time when trivia and laughter ruled the airwaves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this November 29, 1943 episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts the familiar panel of Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, joined by the eminent guest Artur Rubinstein, the celebrated concert pianist. Together, they mix sharp wit with high culture in a lively wartime broadcast. Highlights include painterly trivia from Goya to Whistler, a dazzling test of musical paraphrases from Strauss and Verdi to Chopin, and Rubinstein’s insights into Brahms concertos and European royalty. The panel navigates literary fortunes from Dickens and Dumas to Mr. Deeds Goes to Town, recalls poets who died by brawl, duel, or battle, and plays with animal imagery in verse from “Pop! Goes the Weasel” to Emerson’s “The Mountain and the Squirrel.” Two-piano mashups of Chopin, Verdi, Gounod, Schumann, and Grieg showcase the evening’s musical flair, while historical puzzles trace the tangled bloodlines of World War I monarchs. Blending sparkling banter, Rubinstein’s virtuoso knowledge, and the panel’s trademark humor, this episode delivers a captivating mix of art, music, literature, and laughter on Information Please! 

In this November 22, 1943 episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman quizzes regulars John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams alongside special guests Russell Crouse and Moss Hart—fresh from Broadway hits and wartime stages—for a brisk, funny hour of brainy parlor sport. Highlights include year-matching puzzles spanning Washington’s inauguration to Dempsey–Willard, debates over Fulton’s steamboat lore, and a gangster suite from Blind Alley to Brother Orchid and The Earl of Chicago. The panel riffs on etymology (from “hussy” to “coquette”), psychiatry-by-song (“I Love Me,” “Sometimes I’m Happy,” “I Ain’t Got Nobody”), and billiards terms in verse. Wartime flavor runs through musical clues to aircraft (Zero, Corsair, Thunderbolt, Hurricane, and the Soviet Stormovik), color similes in poetry, and “last lines” lightning rounds touching Rain, The Show-Off, and Kaufman & Hart’s Once in a Lifetime. They even decode service slang—topside, upstairs, and “going over”—and nod to stage tunes from Lady in the Dark and Oklahoma, with timely Thanksgiving asides from the Heinz mic.

In this October 18, 1943, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes a distinguished panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, Oscar Levant, John Kieran, and special guest Marcia Davenport, acclaimed novelist and biographer. Broadcasting live from the Syria Mosque Theater in Pittsburgh, the episode celebrates the city’s cultural heritage while supporting the National War Fund campaign. The lively discussion features Pittsburgh trivia, with Levant and the panel recalling the city’s musical geniuses and playwrights, and identifying famous natives such as George Kaufman and Adolph Mongeau. The conversation then turns to poetry, songs, and operatic characters who feign death, sparking playful debates and witty banter. Marcia Davenport shares her insights on the arts, hats in literature, and the origins of spices, drawing from her expertise and her novel set in Pittsburgh. Other highlights include questions on historical events in Sicily and Italy, memorable song lyrics, pig Latin and jive talk, and the artistry of fictional characters. The program also features a special wartime message from Wendell Wilkie and an address by H.J. Heinz II, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian efforts during World War II. With humor, cultural knowledge, and camaraderie, this episode delivers an engaging hour of trivia and intellectual entertainment, offering a unique snapshot of American life during wartime. Tune in for an informative and delightful evening on Information Please!

In this June 7, 1943, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads an entertaining panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by special guests Marcia Davenport, author of The Valley of Decision, and renowned composer and commentator Deems Taylor. The episode offers an eclectic blend of literary, musical, and mythological trivia. Highlights include lively discussions about operatic scenes from Tosca, The Valkyrie, and Porgy and Bess, plus tales of legendary rides—from Mazepa’s wild flight to Europa’s journey on a bull. The panel also unpacks culinary curiosities like clambakes and planked fish, and navigates poetry, historical references, and peculiar hiding spots in literature. With sharp wit and cultural insight, Davenport and Taylor add charm and depth to this spirited hour of spontaneous fun. Don’t miss this vibrant blend of intellect and humor on Information Please!

In this May 10, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a thoughtful and wide-ranging discussion with regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and special guest George V. Denny Jr., moderator of America’s Town Meeting of the Air. The episode is rich with political insight, musical flair, and historical context. Listeners are treated to a clever musical guessing game connecting famous songs to potential Allied invasion points, followed by debates inspired by imaginary matchups on Denny’s own Town Meeting program. The panel explores historical quotes, presidential speeches, and enduring myths—from Lafayette’s welcome in France to Parson Weems’ cherry tree tale. Denny’s political acumen shines in questions on cabinet appointments and wartime plans like the Rummel Plan. Trivia ranges from poetic lines on loneliness to contests for spouses and valets in literature and opera. The panel’s humor and quick thinking bring levity to topics like wartime advertising, literary partnerships, and American geography. This episode blends patriotic themes, intellectual play, and historical reflection. Tune in for another engaging hour with Information Please!

In this November 15, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a quick-witted and intellectually vibrant panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and returning guest Gregory Ratoff, the Russian-born Hollywood director and actor. Together, they tackle a rich assortment of listener-submitted questions with a blend of scholarly insight and comic flair.   The panel dives into geopolitical geography, identifying rivers like the Amur and Dniester as international borders, and deciphers musical punishments suitable for Adolf Hitler. Ratoff shines with personal anecdotes and lively participation in discussions about Russian language quirks, historical figures like Catherine the Great, and his own name’s pronunciation.   Highlights include a humorous fur coat substitution game, Shakespearean and poetic references to seasons and numbers, and a clever musical guessing segment interpreting Allied invasion routes through Europe. The episode ends with engaging trivia on literary pseudonyms and legendary city founders.   Full of laughter, learning, and lively banter, this episode of Information Please captures the charm of spontaneous intellect and timeless trivia.

In this November 8, 1943, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman is joined by regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, along with distinguished guests Senator Joseph H. Ball of Minnesota and Senator Lister Hill of Alabama. This unique session blends politics, poetry, and trivia as the senators join in the intellectual repartee.   Highlights include creative chemistry jokes involving senators and toddies, historical trivia about constitutional amendments, and literary sleuthing through Shakespeare, Poe, and Kipling. The panel also tackles questions about fictional impersonators, father-son political duos, and historic campaign managers.   With spirited exchanges and plenty of laughter, this episode offers a glimpse into wartime America’s wit, curiosity, and appreciation for knowledge. Tune in for a truly memorable hour on Information Please!

In this November 1, 1943, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman is joined by the regular panelists—Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant—and welcomes special guest Betty Smith, acclaimed author of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Together, they engage in a spirited exchange of trivia and tales spanning literature, history, music, and childhood rhymes.   Highlights include wordplay on city names like Chicago and New York, a whimsical jaunt through slogans such as “Wait till next year” and “Tomorrow the world,” and humorous dives into poetic recipes, hangover remedies, and fictional characters driven by revenge. Smith’s Brooklyn roots, sharp humor, and literary sensibility add a delightful dynamic, particularly in discussions of baseball, nursery rhymes, and British theater.   Tune in for an episode rich with laughter, literary nods, and the warm wit that defines Information Please!

In this October 25, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a spirited panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and special Navy Day guests—Lieutenants John Mason Brown and Richard Lockridge, both former New York drama critics now serving in the U.S. Navy. The episode celebrates Navy Day and highlights Brown and Lockridge’s forthcoming book, To All Hands. The evening is filled with lively theatrical and literary challenges, including questions on famous stage props and the roles they signify, “alphabet days” from military history, and the most memorable kisses in fact and fiction. The panel also dives into musical moments from Broadway and identifies their significance in plays like Lady in the Dark, Private Lives, and The Male Animal. Other highlights include witty explorations of poetic quotations about silence, the rationing changes in wartime fashion and toiletries, and a comical round matching fictional detectives with their favorite stimulants. The experts also tackle mental characteristic names, rewrites of Shakespeare, and soldiers quoting poetry in the face of battle. Throughout, the humor and camaraderie of the panel shine, with Brown and Lockridge’s theatrical expertise adding a special Navy twist to the proceedings. Tune in for a brisk, engaging, and knowledge-packed hour that blends wartime realities with the magic of stage and page—only on Information Please!

In this October 11, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes naturalist and author Donald Culross Peattie, alongside famed explorer and scientist Dr. William Beebe, as special guests. Joining regular panelists John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams, the experts tackle a wide range of questions that bridge natural history, literature, music, and geography. Highlights of the episode include an exploration of the curious origins of ambergris and pearls, a whimsical literary journey involving kidnapped brides and poetic dishes, and lively discussion on plants that affect animals—from loco weed to ragweed. Dr. Beebe brings his expertise to bear on animal behavior, debunking camel myths and elephant galloping, while Peattie’s botanical knowledge shines in topics ranging from Black-Eyed Susans to Blue-Eyed Marys. Listeners will also enjoy questions about famous literary “factories,” the rediscovery of Mendelian genetics, the deciphering of Egyptian hieroglyphics via the Rosetta Stone, and the identification of countries by population and area. The episode is punctuated with humorous banter, historical tidbits, and spontaneous displays of the panel’s wit and wisdom. With its engaging blend of science, literature, music, and lighthearted competition, this episode is a memorable installment of Information Please, perfect for anyone who loves to learn while being thoroughly entertained.

In this October 4, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman returns to New York after the bond tour and welcomes two legendary sports broadcasters—Red Barber, announcer of the World Series for Gillette, and Bill Stern, famed radio commentator—just in time for the Fall Classic. Regular panelists Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran join in for a fast-paced mix of sports trivia, word games, and cultural wit. The show opens with memorable recreations of historic sports moments, challenging the panel to identify classic baseball, boxing, and football events. Listeners are treated to clever connections between poetry and baseball terms, musical questions, and brain-teasing literary puzzles. Highlights include segments on famous brothers in sports, literary guests who disrupted their hosts, and quick-fire rounds on household knowledge from wine storage to baking cakes. Red Barber and Bill Stern share their unique expertise, adding inside stories and humor from the world of sports. The panel’s trademark camaraderie and quick thinking make this a lively celebration of the World Series spirit, blending America’s favorite pastime with the timeless charm of Information Please. Tune in for a winning combination of sports, smarts, and laughs—only on Information Please!

In this September 27, 1943, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman broadcasts from the stage of the Mosque Theatre in Newark, New Jersey, in the midst of a record-breaking war bond drive. The panel features Oscar Levant, Franklin P. Adams, and John Kieran, with distinguished guest James W. Fulbright, the Arkansas congressman whose post-war peace resolution had just passed Congress. The episode also features a surprise appearance by Vice President Henry Wallace, who delivers stirring remarks about the importance of war bonds and lasting peace after the war. Highlights include clever quizzes on New Jersey notables, the language of liberty and freedom in American history, warnings about global conflicts that went unheeded, and rapid-fire musical and literary puzzles. Fulbright’s insights shine as he discusses treaties, Rhodes Scholars, and the intricacies of American government, while the regular panel keeps the show’s trademark wit and humor front and center. From poetry and politics to war bonds and wordplay, this special episode captures the intellectual camaraderie and patriotic energy of wartime America. Don’t miss this unique blend of knowledge, humor, and history—only on Information Please!

In this September 20, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads the panel from the stage of Baltimore’s Lyric Theatre during a special war bond drive. The experts—John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and Franklin P. Adams—are joined by special guest Clare Boothe Luce, the renowned playwright and congresswoman from Connecticut. This lively episode features quick-fire trivia on Baltimore’s most famous sons, memorable family feuds in literature and fact, legendary airplane flights, and a creative game linking names to rivers, lakes, and ponds. The panel tackles literary characters, musical cues, and even modern art, with Luce’s wit and charm adding a fresh dynamic. As part of the nationwide effort, the show celebrates the massive sale of war bonds and includes a stirring message about their importance to the country’s future. With its perfect blend of brain-teasing fun, cultural insight, and patriotic spirit, this episode stands out as a vibrant moment in wartime radio history. Tune in for sparkling banter and sharp minds on Information Please!

In this September 13, 1943, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman returns after the summer break with regular panelists John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams. Oscar Levant is away in Hollywood, but the panel is joined by special guests Marcia Davenport, acclaimed author of “The Valley of Decision,” and Deems Taylor, eminent music critic and composer. This lively episode features witty exchanges and intellectual banter as the panel tackles questions about literature, music, poetry, and even culinary traditions. Highlights include discussions on men in literature who act foolishly for love, famous trumpet fanfares in opera, memorable lines about plump or overweight characters in poetry, and food preparation trivia. Davenport and Taylor share their expertise on musical passages, while the regulars shine in rounds covering classic poetry and Shakespearean references. With a blend of humor, cultural knowledge, and good-natured competition, this episode marks the start of a new season of Information Please, engaging listeners with both entertainment and learning. Tune in for a delightful hour of trivia, music, and stories from some of the sharpest minds on the air!

In this July 12, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts the show from San Francisco’s War Memorial Opera House, capping off a season of patriotic war bond tours. The panel includes regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, joined by the charming guest Jan Struther, best known as the creator of Mrs. Miniver. Together, they tackle an array of questions with wit and brilliance—from literary quotes involving color combinations like “purple and gold” to musical themes inspired by chimes and taxi horns. Struther brings her literary flair to the mix, while Levant offers his sharp musical insight and humor. The episode also delves into poetic toolkits, famous fictional characters aboard boats, and a quiz on parental literary and theatrical duos. The evening ends on a reflective note as the panel bids farewell for an eight-week summer hiatus, celebrating their successful bond-raising tour across major American cities. Join the experts for one last rich blend of intellect and entertainment before their well-earned vacation on Information Please!

In this June 28, 1943, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes an enthusiastic audience at the Civic Opera House in Chicago, where every attendee purchased a war bond for admission. The expert panel—Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant—is joined by special guest Walter Yust, editor-in-chief of the Encyclopedia Britannica. The panel dives into a rich mix of literary, musical, scientific, and geographical trivia. Highlights include discussions on Chicago’s literary settings, poetic phrases like “zephyr” and “whirlwind,” and curious place names like East St. Louis and West New York. Yust engages deftly with references to his encyclopedic domain, even fielding questions on capillary action and historical figures with alias transformations. With humor, quick wit, and intellectual camaraderie, this episode offers a delightful blend of culture and wartime patriotism. Tune in for a special evening that combines knowledge, entertainment, and national spirit on Information Please!

In this June 21, 1943, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes a dynamic panel including John Kieran, Franklin P. Adams, and guest experts Christopher Morley, the celebrated author, and Dr. C. Mildred Thompson, esteemed dean of Vassar College. Together, they tackle a broad range of questions that blend history, literature, politics, and linguistics. Listeners are treated to vibrant exchanges on Civil War generals who served foreign causes, literary chapter titles from Twain to Tarkington, and surprising diplomatic trivia involving military men and women. Morley’s literary depth and Thompson’s scholarly insight shine through as they parse complex quotations and trace the philosophical influences on American leaders from Jefferson to Lincoln. From deciphering poetic lines like “fairer than the evening air” to uncovering the meaning behind phrases like “rob Peter to pay Paul,” this episode serves up intellectual stimulation with characteristic wit and charm. A must-listen for lovers of language, literature, and lively debate.

In this June 14, 1943, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman welcomes Hilary St. George Saunders, the noted British author and co-creator of the pen names Francis Beeding and David Pilgrim. Saunders joins regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant for a rich and varied evening of trivia and humor. Topics span World War II military campaigns such as the Battle of Britain and the Tunisian campaign, along with literary quizzes featuring heavy drinkers in fiction and scenes involving flirtation and gambling from classics like Vanity Fair and Casablanca. Saunders offers firsthand insights into commando operations and British customs, while the panel delves into geographical challenges, classical music references, and whimsical hat traditions. Blending serious wartime reflections with light-hearted banter and deep cultural knowledge, this episode delivers another delightful installment of Information Please.

In this May 31, 1943, episode of Information Please, host Clifton Fadiman leads a brilliant panel featuring Oscar Levant, Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and their distinguished guest, Sir Thomas Beecham—the celebrated conductor and author of A Mingled Chime. This lively session brims with classical music insights, theatrical references, and historical musings. Listeners are treated to questions about the settings of famous plays, the magic of operatic and symphonic compositions, and seasonal poetry. Sir Thomas Beecham shares witty commentary on musical works and cultural trivia, including the origins of The Blue Boy painting and Richard Strauss’s Intermezzo. The panel also explores proverb-inspired menus, literary sequels from Esmond to The Virginians, and whimsical queries about famous uncles and fictional prisoners. A delightful blend of erudition and charm, this episode captures the wit and wisdom of its guests while offering a window into the arts, literature, and music of the time. Tune in for a thoughtful and entertaining journey with Information Please!

In this May 24, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes the distinguished Ethel Barrymore, star of The Corn Is Green, and theatrical publicist Richard Maney to join regulars John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams. The panel serves up literary wit, historical savvy, and theatrical charm in a lively session filled with poems, plays, and playful banter. Barrymore and Maney shine as they field questions on literary quotes, baseball trivia, and poetic riddles. From “Time, you old gypsy man” to “Out, out, brief candle,” the conversation spans Shakespeare, Longfellow, and even Rudy Vallée. The group dissects limericks, tracks famous elopers in fiction, and solves detective story mysteries with flair. Theatrical questions suit Barrymore perfectly, including one about her own performances, while Maney impresses with quick recall on baseball managers and stage families. Cultural connections abound—from Cicero to Yamanoto, and from The Hound of the Baskervilles to The Murder of Roger Ackroyd. This episode brims with classic charm, deep literary references, and Barrymore’s commanding elegance. Tune in for an enriching and spirited hour on Information Please!

In this May 17, 1943, fifth-anniversary episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a cross-continental session featuring panelists John Kieran and Franklin P. Adams in New York, while Jan Struther, author of Mrs. Miniver, and Boris Karloff, the master of movie monsters, join from a Hollywood studio. Using Harpo Marx’s horn and Frankenstein’s growl as buzzers, the guests bring both humor and horror to this uniquely entertaining episode. Listeners are treated to playful explorations of vampires, zombies, and ogres, distinctions between pirates and mutineers, and chilling tales from literature like The Monkey’s Paw and The Tell-Tale Heart. Karloff’s gothic expertise lends authenticity, while Struther’s dry British wit keeps the panel on its toes. The episode also celebrates the show’s fifth birthday with questions on nursery rhymes, romantic endearments, classical legends, and seasonal poetry. In a nod to wartime, it includes discussions on European unity and heroic mythologies. Brimming with literary references, theatrical flair, and comedic chemistry, this milestone edition of Information Please is a rich tapestry of culture and fun. Tune in for a birthday episode that blends brains and the bizarre!

In this April 26, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates from Cleveland, the fourth stop on the show’s war bond tour, where over $250 million in bonds have been raised. Regular panelists Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant welcome back returning guest Leon Henderson, former head of the Office of Price Administration. The panel entertains a vibrant crowd with a mix of historical, musical, literary, and political questions. Henderson proves his mettle with sharp answers on Mark Hanna, Ruth Bryan Owen, and the Wilson Peace Commission. Levant dominates musical trivia, including inventive links between Shakespearean characters and popular songs like “My One and Only.” The group recalls Gilded Age socialites in Peacock Alley and pinpoints poetic phrases from Whitman and Byron with style and humor. Highlights include quizzes on presidential ages, tree-based expressions, and cocktails like the Horse’s Neck. Amid laughs and learning, the show maintains its patriotic edge, reminding listeners of the ongoing war bond drive. Join Information Please for a high-spirited hour of intellect, trivia, and wartime purpose!

In this April 19, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a sporty and spirited panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, alongside two titans of the athletic world: Ford Frick, president of the National League, and Grantland Rice, legendary sportswriter and poet. With baseball season just underway and wartime morale high, the panel dives into a hearty lineup of sports trivia and cultural commentary. From the endurance of Mel Ott and Connie Mack to the poetic connections of war bonds and bridge innovations, the episode is a home run of intellect and amusement. Listeners are treated to musings on Babe Ruth’s greetings, Will Rogers’ folksy charm, the invention of the screwball pitch, and the innovations of Charles Comiskey. There’s even a musical tribute to famous Rose Bowl games and a literary look at battlefields from Vanity Fair to Rabble in Arms. Packed with historical gems, clever repartee, and a nod to both cow pastures and cricket fields, this episode delivers a grand slam of cultural wit and sports wisdom. Step up to the plate with Information Please!

In this April 12, 1943, episode of Information Please, the program broadcasts live from Bushnell Memorial Hall in Hartford, Connecticut, during a remarkable war bond drive that raised over $200 million. Clifton Fadiman presides over an enthusiastic panel featuring regulars John Kieran, Franklin P. Adams, Oscar Levant, and distinguished guest Wendell Willkie, the statesman, author, and 1940 presidential candidate. This special episode celebrates Willkie’s new book One World and highlights his eloquent contributions across a wide range of topics—from American constitutional freedoms and historical quotations to famous abdications and literary soundscapes. The panelists tackle everything from Shakespeare and Gilbert & Sullivan to outlaws in classical music and Connecticut inventors who transformed the world. Willkie’s insightful remarks, particularly on international cooperation and democracy, lend a thoughtful and inspiring tone. With humor from Levant, sharp historical recall from Kieran and Adams, and the host’s lively moderation, the episode combines serious reflection with classic Information Please charm. Tune in for a memorable hour of high intellect, wry banter, and patriotic spirit on Information Please!

In this April 5, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman returns to host a witty and vibrant panel with regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by two sharp and entertaining guests: Cornelia Otis Skinner, actress and co-author of Our Hearts Were Young and Gay, and Jan Struther, creator of Mrs. Miniver. This spirited episode pits the men against the women in a battle of brains and banter. The panel tackles an eclectic mix of questions—from the meanings of “bisque,” “basque,” and “busk,” to the literary nuances of Shakespeare, Chaucer, and Tennyson. Discussions include a whimsical examination of clothing etymology, courtship plot twists in Little Women and Henry Esmond, and the various fates of fictional lovers who failed to keep their dates. Highlights also include playful musical trivia, biblical references, and cultural insights into famous figures like Churchill, Stalin, and Chiang Kai-shek. With humor, charm, and clever repartee, Skinner and Struther shine in their intellectual sparring, ultimately triumphing over their male counterparts. Tune in for a delightful hour of engaging questions, literary wit, and laughter on Information Please!

In this March 29, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a distinguished panel including Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and special guest Colonel Carlos P. Romulo—Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of I Saw the Fall of the Philippines. The panel delves into global geography, historical conflicts, and literary references, with Colonel Romulo providing firsthand insight into the Pacific theater of World War II. Highlights include discussions of famous wartime messages, fictional professions, and symbolic phrases like “soft belly of the Axis” and “unsinkable aircraft carrier.” Romulo recounts heroic missions such as the SS Legaspi’s blockade run and sheds light on Filipino contributions and culture. With lively exchanges and sharp wit, the episode blends wartime commentary, musical trivia, and classic literature. It’s an illuminating and spirited installment of Information Please, where intellect meets entertainment.

In this March 15, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes Jan Struther, the celebrated creator of Mrs. Miniver, as the special guest alongside panel regulars John Kieran, Franklin P. Adams, and Oscar Levant. The panel tackles a lively set of audience questions ranging from the meanings of nautical knots and the quirks of British and American officials, to famous literary references involving colors, hair, and statues. Jan Struther charms the panel with her wit, offering insights into everything from English folk songs to legendary creatures like griffins and harpies. The team sings their way through “Johnny” songs, debates ration stamps for Cinderella and Popeye, and unravels poetic quotations with humorous banter. Highlights include quickfire answers about world leaders and historical battles, classic riddles, and clever wordplay around plants, feet, and movement. Blending spirited trivia, cultural knowledge, and spontaneous laughter, this episode is a delightful testament to the show’s unique blend of intellect and entertainment. Tune in for a memorable hour with Jan Struther and the Information Please team!