Podcast Summary: Hey Riddle Riddle – Patreon Preview #332: Public Access 14

Episode Overview

In the Patreon Preview episode titled "Public Access 14," released on July 18, 2025, the "Hey Riddle Riddle" podcast delves into a hilariously absurd classroom scenario. Hosted by Adal Rifai, Erin Keif, and John Patrick Coan of Headgum, the trio navigates a fictional tale where a teacher meets an unconventional demise. While the podcast typically explores riddles and puzzles, this episode diverges into comedic storytelling, showcasing the hosts' improvisational prowess.

Introduction to the Incident

The episode kicks off with Alex introducing his favorite riddle, "Stop that. Laughing at the back," which quickly spirals into an outrageous narrative. The scenario revolves around a teacher, Mr. Johnson, who tragically dies from an overabundance of flatulence—an event streamed live to the entire town.

Mr. Johnson’s Response

Mr. Johnson takes center stage as he sternly addresses his unruly class:

“This is not funny. I cannot stress this enough. This is not. Look at me. This is not funny. Your teacher.”
— Mr. Johnson (00:07)

He attempts to maintain order and seriousness, emphasizing the gravity of the situation:

“...how far in was the one that blasted him back into the chalkboard? Stop, stop, stop. Stop that laughing in the back.”
— Mr. Johnson (02:40)

Students’ Attempts at Lightening the Mood

Despite Mr. Johnson's earnest demeanor, students Alex and Charlie persist in injecting humor into the discussion about their teacher's demise. They recount the bizarre circumstances leading to Mr. Johnson's untimely death, peppering their narrative with exaggerated and comedic details.

Charlie's humorous interjections include:

“He farted himself to death.”
— Charlie (00:34)

And Alex adds his own flair:

“In our defense, it was riveting. Was the best 50 minutes of my life.”
— Alex (03:47)

Describing the Absurd Events

The hosts vividly describe the sequence of events leading up to and following Mr. Johnson's death. From breaking fluorescent lights to unintended aerobatic feats propelled by relentless flatulence, the story becomes increasingly outlandish.

Notable descriptions include:

“...he broke the fluorescent light by flying up to the ceiling.”
— Mr. Johnson (02:10)

“He blew back through the wall, left again, went out to the parking lot, and then his fart blew him up into the...”
— Mr. Johnson (09:39)

Humorous Dialogue and Visual Imagery

Charlie and Alex engage in playful banter, creating vivid and comical imagery of the events. They describe Mr. Johnson's attempts to use the eyewash station, his pants being shredded by his own flatulence, and even liken his final moments to iconic cinematic scenes.

Examples include:

“He was trying to open the windows. He did, which I thought was very kind. And then you guys closed them to keep the pressure in the room.”
— Charlie (06:42)

“Like a looney tune. It was very human.”
— Charlie (06:24)

Mr. Johnson’s Frustration and Attempts to Regulate the Class

Throughout the episode, Mr. Johnson consistently urges his students to refrain from laughing, emphasizing the seriousness of their teacher’s condition. His repeated calls to silence highlight his frustration:

“Stop that laughing in the back.”
— Mr. Johnson (multiple timestamps)

Despite his efforts, the students' relentless humor undermines his authority, culminating in a chaotic and humorous classroom environment.

Climax and Emotional Turn

As the narrative progresses, the episode reaches a climax where the students attempt to honor their deceased teacher with a moment of silence. However, the humor persists as they struggle to maintain decorum:

“This is a moment of silence starting now.”
— Mr. Johnson (10:37)

“Why are they all eating chili?”
— Charlie (10:50)

The situation escalates comically when the "moment of silence" is interrupted by more farting incidents, blending solemnity with absurdity.

Conclusion and Lessons Learned

In the final segments, Mr. Johnson imparts a lesson on the importance of seeking help, contrasting the humorous tragedy with a meaningful takeaway:

“I hope you earned a valuable lesson about actually asking for help.”
— Mr. Johnson (10:15)

However, the episode concludes on a light-hearted note as the students continue their antics, leaving listeners with a blend of humor and an underlying message about responsibility and empathy.

Notable Quotes and Timestamps

• Mr. Johnson on Seriousness:
  “This is not funny. I cannot stress this enough.”
  — Mr. Johnson (00:07)

• Charlie's Description of the Incident:
  “He farted himself to death.”
  — Charlie (00:34)

• Alex's Defense of the Laughter:
  “In our defense, it was riveting. Was the best 50 minutes of my life.”
  — Alex (03:47)

• Mr. Johnson's Final Plea:
  “Don't laugh in the back. Do not laugh. They're in mourning.”
  — Mr. Johnson (10:39)

• Closing Reflection:
  “I hope you earned a valuable lesson about actually asking for help.”
  — Mr. Johnson (10:15)

Episode Highlights

• Absurdist Humor: The episode leverages over-the-top humor to create an engaging and entertaining narrative.

• Dynamic Interactions: The interplay between Mr. Johnson's attempts to maintain seriousness and the students' relentless humor showcases the hosts' improvisational skills.

• Visual and Auditory Imagery: Detailed descriptions and sound effects enhance the comedic impact, immersing listeners in the chaotic classroom scenario.

• Underlying Message: Amidst the humor, the episode subtly conveys the importance of empathy and seeking assistance in times of distress.

Conclusion

"Public Access 14" serves as a testament to the "Hey Riddle Riddle" hosts' ability to craft engaging and humorous narratives beyond their typical content focus. Through a blend of absurdist storytelling and sharp improvisation, the episode offers listeners a memorable and laughter-filled experience, all while hinting at deeper lessons about responsibility and compassion.