Hey Riddle Riddle Podcast Episode #367: 7 Year Anniversary with Anthony Burch

Release Date: July 30, 2025

Celebrating seven years of solving puzzles, ridding, and relentless laughter, the hosts of Hey Riddle Riddle—Adol, Erin, and John Patrick Coan—mark a significant milestone with a special episode featuring Anthony Burch, a renowned writer and comedian. This detailed summary captures the essence of their anniversary celebration, the introduction of new projects, cherished memories from their journey, and engaging interactions with their esteemed guest.

1. Celebrating Seven Years of Hey Riddle Riddle

Adol Rifai kicks off the episode with a heartfelt narration reflecting on the podcast's inception and enduring legacy. He highlights the convergence of their unique comedic talents and love for riddles that birthed the show back in 2018.

"[...] the fragile alliance, they poured their madness, their tangents, their scene work, and their rage at riddles that had started the journey in the first place. Thus, Hey Riddle Riddle was born." — Adol Rifai [02:52]

The hosts reminisce about the challenges and triumphs they've faced over seven years, including pandemics, personal milestones, and the evolution of their content.

2. Welcoming Anthony Burch

At [05:20], Anthony Burch joins the conversation, adding a vibrant dynamic to the celebration. His introduction is met with playful banter and warmth, setting a convivial tone for the episode.

"Anthony, you're here too. Hi." — Aaron [05:20]

The discussion quickly delves into past interactions, revealing that Anthony's enthusiasm for the podcast inspired him to launch his own project, fostering a mutual creative synergy.

3. Introduction of New Podcast: Gumshoes and Dragons

A significant portion of the episode centers around their new venture, Gumshoes and Dragons. Anthony elaborates on the concept—a fusion of Dungeons & Dragons with the investigative charm of classic detectives like Columbo.

"Basically, I thought it'd be fun to do a D and D type thing, but with the structure of Columbo." — Anthony Burch [09:33]

Adol and JPC express excitement about the project, discussing how it diversifies their creative output while maintaining the collaborative spirit they've nurtured over the years.

"It's really fun. From doing this show to doing that show. It's a Big change up." — JPC [10:33]

They highlight the interactive nature of the new podcast, where guests play characters in a mystery-solving adventure, adding layers of improvisational comedy and storytelling.

4. Reflecting on Memorable Moments

In a nostalgic segment, the hosts and Anthony reminisce about favorite episodes and memorable scenes from the past seven years. They attempt to recall these moments live, leading to humorous attempts at recreating them from memory.

"But accidental moments are so fun. When ADOL and JPC were chickens, and ADOL did a chicken voice and JPC did a regular voice. If you guys remember that, that's my favorite." — Aaron [29:58]

Some standout episodes discussed include:

• "Pretzel Jesus": A quirky character who skateboards, remembered fondly despite faded details.

  "He did. Did Pretzel Jesus skateboard?" — Adol [15:27]

• "Adol is Dead" April Fool's Episode: A playful nod to the show's tone, where Adol's character is humorously "announced dead."

  "I'm going to give it seven out of seven because all good adults go to heaven." — Adol [16:25]

• "The Sweater Episode": An episode where Aaron's sweater becomes a running joke, beloved for its relatability and humor.

  "That remains my favorite podcast episode, period." — Anthony [18:51]

These reflections underscore the camaraderie and creative flair that have defined the podcast's success.

5. Engaging with Listener Riddles

A pivotal moment in the episode involves tackling a listener-submitted riddle from Sophia, challenging the hosts to unravel a seemingly unsolvable puzzle left by a 19th-century English bishop, Samuel Wilberforce.

Sophia's Riddle: "I'm the sweetest of sounds in orchestra heard yet an orchestra never was seen. I'm a bird of gay plumage yet less like a bird. Nothing ever in nature was seen. Touch the earth I expire, in water I die and air I lose breath yet can swim and can fly. Darkness destroys me and light in my death and I only keep going by holding my breath. If my name can't be guessed by a boy or a man, by a woman or girl, it certainly can."

The hosts and Anthony dissect the riddle, exploring various interpretations and possibilities, while playfully debating its feasibility.

"What lives in a puddle but never gets wet? What's baked in a loaf but never gets wet?" — JPC [15:59]

Despite their efforts, the riddle remains elusive, sparking lively discussion and showcasing their puzzle-solving camaraderie.

6. Promoting New Projects and Future Plans

Towards the episode's conclusion, the hosts shift focus to promote their new podcast, encouraging listeners to engage with Gumshoes and Dragons and supporting the ongoing growth of Hey Riddle Riddle.

"If you're a fan of Anthony or you like our stuff, or even Casey Tony's sweet, sweet editing skills, please give it a shot." — Aaron [61:00]

Additionally, they mention upcoming live shows and invite listeners to participate, emphasizing the community-building aspect of their creative endeavors.

7. Heartfelt Gratitude and Looking Forward

Closing the celebration on an emotional note, Aaron extends gratitude to Anthony and the loyal listener base that has sustained the podcast for seven years. The sentiment underscores the personal connections and shared laughter that have been the backbone of Hey Riddle Riddle.

"I'm really, really grateful for seven years of this podcast with you guys." — Aaron [62:18]

The hosts express optimism for the future, hinting at more adventures, riddles, and collaborative fun to come.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "We are starting a new thing, and I don't know who wants to talk about it, but I think to talk about at the beginning of the episode is wise." — Aaron [09:12]

• "It's like, one of the first things they give you is the card that says you can do it." — Anthony Burch [19:14]

• "What lives in a puddle but never gets wet? What's baked in a loaf but never gets wet?" — JPC [15:59]

• "I'm really, really grateful for seven years of this podcast with you guys." — Aaron [62:18]

Conclusion

Episode #367 of Hey Riddle Riddle serves as a heartfelt tribute to seven years of laughter, riddles, and creative collaboration. Featuring Anthony Burch, the hosts celebrate their journey, introduce exciting new projects, and engage in nostalgic reflections that highlight the unique charm of their podcast. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the series, this anniversary episode offers a delightful glimpse into the enduring spirit of Hey Riddle Riddle and the vibrant community it continues to build.