Go Fact Yourself – Bonus: A Quick Schedule Update from J. Keith

Date: December 5, 2025
Host: J. Keith van Straaten
Podcast: Go Fact Yourself (MaximumFun.org)

Overview

This bonus episode is a brief, unscripted announcement from host J. Keith van Straaten to update listeners about a temporary scheduling change for the podcast. J. Keith shares important updates regarding upcoming episodes, encourages listeners to check out Go Fact Yourself merchandise for the holidays, and teases a series of exciting live shows. The episode closes with heartfelt appreciation for supporters and a signature dose of the show's lighthearted humor.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Announcement of a Schedule Shift

• J. Keith opens by addressing the audience’s likely expectations for a new episode on the first Friday of the month and quickly clarifies that due to unforeseen circumstances, the schedule is being adjusted.

  • “You probably are expecting a new episode of Go Fact Yourself right now because it's the first Friday of the month. Well, so were we, but something came up so we have to shift our schedule a little bit.” (00:06)

• He assures listeners that new episodes will return soon, specifically promising new content for the next two Fridays in a row, starting next week.

2. Holiday Season Merchandise Plug

• J. Keith segues into a cheerful holiday message, recommending Go Fact Yourself merchandise as gift ideas for fans or self-care.

  • “It is the holiday season coming up so if you are looking for a special gift for yourself, come come on. Treat yourself right. Or for that other Go Fact Yourself fan in your life, please remember that we've got wonderful merch available at maxfunstore.com.” (00:28)

• He describes some of the available merch items in a playful, self-deprecating tone, naming:

  • The “T-shaped shirt”
  • The “mug-shaped mug”
  • The “dingle dangly dingle dangle”
  • His personal favorite: the branded journal—“very cool looking”
  • A Go Fact Yourself ornament, “that you can hang on your tree or menorah”

3. Upcoming Live Show Announcements

• The episode includes a rapid-fire rundown of upcoming live show dates, locations, and featured celebrity guests/co-hosts:

  • Saturday, December 6th at The Crawford in Pasadena:
    • Al Madrigal vs. Mary Lynn Rajskub
    • Guest co-host: Ashley Burch
  • Saturday, December 13th:
    • Paul Feig vs. Anjali Bhimani
  • Sunday, January 4th (matinee, 4pm, Pasadena):
    • Jay Mohr vs. Amanda Gorman
  • Thursday, January 15th at The Crawford:
    • Matt Walsh
  • New York Dates:
    • Saturday, January 24th at Symphony Space
    • Monday, January 26th at the JCC
    • (Guests for NY dates to be announced)

• Listeners are encouraged to check gofactorpod.com for the most current information on guests and tickets.

  • “You can always get the latest info on guests and tickets at gofactorpod.com” (01:32)

4. Closing Gratitude and Signature Humor

• J. Keith closes with genuine thanks to listeners for their patience and support.
  • “Thanks so much. We really appreciate you and appreciate your patience and we'll be back soon.” (01:36)
• Adds a final offbeat, respectful sign-off:
  • “Have a good day. Only if you want. Consent. It's also about having good days.” (01:39)

Memorable Quotes

• On the Schedule Update:
  “You probably are expecting a new episode of Go Fact Yourself right now because it's the first Friday of the month. Well, so were we, but something came up so we have to shift our schedule a little bit.” (00:06 — J. Keith van Straaten)

• On Treating Yourself:
  “It is the holiday season coming up so if you are looking for a special gift for yourself, come come on. Treat yourself right.” (00:28 — J. Keith van Straaten)

• On Merch Favorites:
  “My favorite actually might be the Journal. The branded Journal is very cool looking.” (00:42 — J. Keith van Straaten)

• On Appreciation:
  “Thanks so much. We really appreciate you and appreciate your patience and we'll be back soon.” (01:36 — J. Keith van Straaten)

• Quirky Sign-Off:
  “Have a good day. Only if you want. Consent. It's also about having good days.” (01:39 — J. Keith van Straaten)

Important Timestamps

• 00:06 — Schedule update from J. Keith
• 00:28 — Holiday season and merchandise promotion
• 00:50-01:24 — Upcoming live show dates and celebrity guests announced
• 01:32 — Reference to gofactorpod.com for info
• 01:36-01:44 — Heartfelt track close and signature humor

This concise bonus episode is a must-listen for fans eager for updates and upcoming events, and is delivered with J. Keith’s signature warmth and wit.