Second Drink: Dunder Mifflin Infinity Pt 1

Summary

Office Ladies Podcast: "Second Drink: Dunder Mifflin Infinity Pt 1"

Date: November 17, 2025
Hosts: Jenna Fischer & Angela Kinsey
Podcast Theme: The ultimate “The Office” re-watch, with behind-the-scenes stories only the cast can tell.

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Episode Overview

In this episode, Jenna and Angela dive deep into Season 4, Episode 3 of The Office, “Dunder Mifflin Infinity Part 1.” They revisit the episode’s major plotlines—Ryan’s return with big tech changes, Jim and Pam’s relationship going public, and Angela’s conflicted feelings for Dwight after the Sprinkles incident. The hosts share tons of behind-the-scenes trivia, address fun fan mail, dish on personal memories from filming, and sprinkle in their signature warmth, laughter, and plenty of Office sass.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Fan Mail & Callback Catch-Ups

• [02:28]–[08:00]
  • The hosts open with fan letters from “the archives” (some dating back four or five years) and fun background catches.
  • Angel R.’s Catch: The cold open’s breakroom scene with Jim, Pam, and Toby happens before 9:15am, raising questions about early morning snacks and the speed at which Toby drafts memos.
    • “That is really early. So what, he's getting a soda and potato chips, like early in the morning?” (Angela, 03:40)
  • The “Feral” Pronunciation Debate: Multiple listeners (Holly M., Nolam, Monica G., Kayla M., Eileen G.) chime in confirming Angela’s pronunciation is correct (“feral,” not “feh-ral”), prompting Jenna to formally concede after googling it.
    • “I stand corrected.” (Jenna, 05:19)
  • Scranton Locations Idea: Emily M. suggests a podcast episode recorded live from Scranton. Angela’s game: “I think my calendar in 2026 is pretty open.” (06:00)
  • Candy Bag Alts: Lola G. asks about alternate takes for Angela’s “office mattress” talking head—hosts read out two sassy unused lines.
  • Creed Dress-Up Game: Timothy recalls an old NBC website game (“Make Creed Young Again”), reminisced as an example of the show’s digital engagement.

2. Fast Facts & Behind-the-Scenes

a. Director Craig Zisk & 'Cop Rock'

• [11:07]–[16:07]
  • Craig Zisk directed the episode and previously worked on notable TV shows (Weeds, United States of Tara, Larry Sanders, Scrubs, Brooklyn Nine-Nine).
  • Jenna shares her love for Zisk’s previous project “Cop Rock”—the infamous musical cop show—which was critically panned but Emmy-winning.
    • “It was like Glee but a cop show. It was brilliant.” (Jenna, 15:17)

b. 2007 Scranton Office Convention

• [16:28]–[20:28]
  • Cast (minus Jenna, Steve, John) attended a massive fan convention in Scranton.
  • Angela recalls Today Show gig with Al Roker. Jenna, grounded by a back injury, exchanges emails from home.
  • Both reminisce about their separate Scranton visits—bucket list to do together after the podcast ends.

c. Entertainment Weekly Covers & Show's Popularity

• [19:13]–[20:42]
  • Four themed EW covers (Steve/Melora, Angela/Dwight, Jim/Pam, Ryan/Kelly) appeared as the show reached pop-culture peak.
  • Jenna: “It just felt so fleeting…then at this time, it became impossible. It was just constant, and we were really out in the zeitgeist.” (19:56)

d. Dunder Mifflin Infinity Website

• [21:06]–[23:44]
  • The original NBC-run “DunderMifflinInfinity.com” offered fan games, virtual branches, Schrute Bucks, and opportunities for fan art to appear on set.
  • Jenna, on how ahead-of-its-time it was: “There was no Instagram…This was really, really revolutionary in terms of that idea of fan engagement…” (22:20)
  • Played retro ad audio and suggested relaunch as an app: “Peacock, are you listening? Do this.” (23:58)

3. Episode Breakdown & In-Depth Analysis

Opening Scenes: Romance & Reactions

• [28:26]–[30:17]

  • Breakroom now dubbed “the flirt room”—Jim and Pam’s PDA witnessed by an expressive, crushed Toby.
    • “Paul does some amazing reaction acting in this episode.” (Jenna, 29:07)

• [30:17]–[31:26]

  • Toby’s passive-aggressive memo outs Jim and Pam to the office; Michael is overjoyed, orchestrates awkward hand-holding, and delivers the infamous line:
    • “My heart soars with the eagle’s nest.” (Michael/Steve, 31:24)
  • Hosts note: One of Mike Schur’s “special” lines.

Sequence of Talking Heads

• [31:32]–[33:03]
  • Dwight, Angela, Andy respond to the Jim/Pam reveal with various reactions and set-ups for future love triangle tensions.
  • Angela’s “office mattress” line gets extra background: two candy-bag alt versions are discussed.

Black & White Security Camera Footage

• [34:30]
  • The unusual use of security cam shots to show Dwight gifting Angela a “feral barn cat”—a stand-out production choice.

The Cat Scene: Honey for 'Ferality'

• [35:57]–[37:31]
  • Kim Ferry (hair dept.) reveals the cat’s roughened look was achieved with a little honey.
  • Angela describes the chaos of filming with a wriggling cat: “We really had to sort of deliver the emotion of the scene but get our lines out quickly because this thing was climbing off Rain and wanted to go exploring the whole scene.” (37:19)

Gift Cat / Bandit Continuity?

• Fans ask: Is this also Bandit? No, but hosts laugh at the idea.

Real-Life Pet Adoption Tangent

• [38:31]–[39:57]
  • Both urge adopting/rescuing pets rather than gifting. Share personal stories about how their own cats “picked them.”

Relationship Disclosure Form (Toby’s Drama)

• [40:05]–[40:55]
  • A deleted blooper involved Paul Lieberstein (Toby) trying to hold Pam’s hand during this scene.

Ryan's Transformation & Returns

• [41:04]–[43:35]
  • On BJ’s “new boss” look—fancy suit, facial stubble: he confirms this wasn’t his choice, and the original pitch was for a goatee (Greg Daniels: “too on the nose”).
  • “The whole look was Very kind of like Gordon Gekko. You know, the movie Wall Street? It was like, you know, Ryan thinks he's the king of New York now.” (Angela, 43:09)
  • Hilarious breakroom moment: Kevin and Andy both try to bond with Ryan over “the fire”—BJ/Brain kept breaking during the noogie gag.

Michael & Ryan: Ageism, Technology, & Talking Heads

• [53:26]–[54:31]
  • Michael’s epic “foreign exchange brother” jeans monologue—a fan-favorite bit of Steve Carell comedy.

Deleted Scene

• Michael has Pam post sticky notes on his BlackBerry as “messages”—Pam talking head: “Michael doesn’t know how to use his BlackBerry…so when he says for me to put it in his BlackBerry, he means for me to write it on a post-it and stick it on the BlackBerry.” (54:06)

Kelly & Ryan Drama

• [60:26]–[61:06]
  • Kelly claims pregnancy to rope Ryan back in. “I am doing great. In fact, I am dating a lot of guys.” (60:26)
  • Kelly’s direct-to-camera shake of the head (“no”) after stating her “pregnancy” is a highlight.
• Fan letter from Renata in Brazil: “Ladies, it is not worth it. …You deserve someone who's going to put your love on top. ...this crazy relationship will teach you something about what not to accept.” (62:36)

Dwight & Angela’s Back-to-Back (“Kitchen”) Scene

• [63:12]–[65:24]
  • Deleted scene: Pam gives Angela relationship advice on forgiveness and moving forward (“just try to focus on the good parts…”).
• Discussion of Dwight suggesting noodles and cauliflower for dinner leads to Jenna discovering it’s actually a delicious, legit dish: “Google noodles and cauliflower. It's a bonanza.” (65:17)

Jan & Ryan's Tacky-Off

• [65:24]–[66:17]
  • “You got my job.” “You didn’t get my salary.” Jan’s passive-aggressive zingers and love for the beard—a perfect showcase for Melora Hardin and BJ Novak.

Great Scott Salad Dressing Fan Catch

• [70:34]–[71:54]
  • Michael brings packed “Great Scott” salad dressing (a callback to a deleted “Fun Run” scene about Michael mixing Newman's Own ranch and Italian—themed like Paul Newman himself).

Creed’s Jet Black Hair Dye

• [73:01]–[74:28]
  • Creed shows up with an inky black “30-year-old” hairdo, prompting a string of texts with Creed Bratton to confirm: it was a vegetable dye.
    • Creed jokes: it should be part of a legal drama spin-off with Jim Ferry, the actual department head for hair.

Conference Room: The Epic Robert Dunder Cameo

• [76:01]–[78:59]
  • Robert Dunder’s appearance is celebrated—a masterclass in “the rambling story.” John Engle’s impressive career (and teaching resume) is highlighted.
    • Hosts improvise their own extended “where’s the sweater from?” story as a loving nod.

Angela & Dwight’s Heartbreaking Dinner Date

• [81:31]–[85:15]
  • Scene was filmed at the exclusive Malibu Lake Mountain Club. Angela describes the “magical” night shoot.
  • The emotional breakup scene is a highlight for Angela Kinsey:
    • “Dwight is hoping that it’s one thing. Angela’s trying for it to be a reconciliation. And then she just can’t do it…” (84:00)
    • “I heard a joke today.” “Oh, that’s funny.” “Yes, it was.” (Angela & Rainn as Dwight, 84:41)
  • Jenna: “These are the moments of The Office that I’m so proud of as a television comedy...” (85:15)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “My heart soars with the eagle’s nest.”
  — Michael Scott (Steve Carell), [31:24]

• “I stand corrected.”
  — Jenna Fischer, [05:19], conceding ‘feral’ pronunciation to Angela

• “This is now like a hybrid West Side Story Cop Rock.”
  — Jenna Fischer, riffing on the legendary musical cop show, [16:07]

• “I want you and I to go to Scranton and just anonymously sign up for the Office tour.”
  — Jenna Fischer, on future podcast plans, [18:48]

• “Peacock, are you listening? Do this.”
  — Jenna Fischer, on relaunching Dunder Mifflin Infinity as an app, [23:58]

• “If you go to their website, you’ll see they have an assemble and bake meal…”
  — Angela, discussing Blue Apron sponsorship, [00:41] (example of skipping the sponsorship section for summary)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Fan Mail, Cold Open PDA Catch: 02:28–04:08
• “Feral” Pronunciation Showdown: 04:09–05:34
• Scranton Location & Conventions: 06:00–20:28
• Dunder Mifflin Infinity Website: 21:06–23:44
• Breakroom/Flirt Room Scene: 28:26–31:26
• Michael’s Legendary Talking Head: 31:24
• Angela’s “Office Mattress” & Alternate Talking Heads: 33:03–33:20
• Creed’s Printer Ink Hair Dye: 73:01–74:28
• Malibu Lake Dinner/Location Trivia: 81:31–85:15

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Episode Tone and Style

Angela and Jenna embrace their trademark blend of affectionate ribbing, self-deprecating humor, and sincere reminiscence. They don’t just recap but pull listeners behind the curtain, sharing deleted scenes, fan trivia, crew shout-outs, and tangents on everything from cats to blackberries to wedding afterparties. The chemistry and authentic friendship between the hosts brings the magic of The Office back to life while still making the episode deeply accessible, funny, and fresh for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

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Closing Tease

Next week: gift baskets, huge stunts, and much more from “Dunder Mifflin Infinity Part Two.”
“I can't wait to talk about it.” (Jenna, 86:19)

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This summary skips paid ad segments and closing credits roll, remaining focused on the hosts' content, insights, and the podcast’s joyful, irreverent spirit.

Transcript

[A]

Okay. Ang, you were telling me recently that you got some meals off of Blue Apron and you love them.

[B]

Yeah, this was a really great fit for me because there was no subscription requirement.

[A]

That's a new thing, right? Like, you used to have to subscribe, but now it's a no subscription thing.

[B]

Yeah. Because one who needs another subscription. And then also, you know, sometimes it's just too much. Right. And it's like, when do I need these meals?

[A]

That's amazing. I'm jealous because I get into that whole, like, decision fatigue about, like, oh, what's for dinner tonight? But if you go on the website, you can, like, order a week of dinner and now that decision is made for you. And I also can't keep eating the same three meals. If I keep eating the same three meals, I'm gonna go insane.

[B]

So if you go to their website, you're gonna see that they have an assemble and bake meal. These are one pan meals with minimal prep and minimal cleanup. Just a few minutes hands on, and then right into the oven and done. You get all the pre prepped ingredients and it's just easy. It was great.

[A]

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[B]

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[A]

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[B]

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[A]

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[B]

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[A]

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[B]

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[A]

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[B]

Welcome back to the second drink of Dunder Mifflin Infinity Part 1.

[A]

We wanted to start with some fan mail that y' all sent in for this episode. And by the way, you probably sent this in maybe four, maybe five years ago because we are going back to the old archives for all of our episodes as we do our second drinks.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And we found a great background catch by Angel R. In Fort Worth. So, Angela, you remember how this episode starts with the cold open of Jim and Pam in the break room? Yeah. Yeah, Right.

[B]

Jim gets Pam a soda, and then he's looking at some potato chips, and then Pam gives him a smooch on the cheek. And of course, poor Toby is watching this whole exchange.

[A]

Yes. All right, well, here is Angel's background catch for that cold open. Angel said, quote, ladies, at 46 seconds, Michael asks Toby about the letter he sent out to everyone. So saying people are complaining about PDA in the office. The clock on the wall behind Toby says it's around 9:15am so that means Pam kissed Jim in the break room earlier than that. That's pretty early for a break room snack. Also, how quickly did Toby write that PDA letter? Please discuss.

[B]

That is really early. So what, he's getting a soda and potato chips, like early in the morning?

[A]

Right away? And then Toby witnesses this and he just bangs out a letter? I guess.

[B]

I don't know. I'm concerned about Jim's early morning snacks now. Well, I love that catch. And we also got a fan mail flurry for this episode. Many, many people wrote in about it. I haven't told you about it, Jenna, because I wanted to surprise you.

[A]

What is it?

[B]

I'm just going to enjoy this a minute. I'm going to enjoy it. The fan mail flurry is about the word feral. Do you remember we talked about feral cats and you said say it.

[A]

Feral.

[B]

Feral. All right, we got a fan mail flurry. Holly M. Says, sorry, Jenna, but your feral doesn't exist. Angela wins this one. Another person, Nolam, wrote in and said, hey, Jenna, it's definitely feral. But I was with you on Chuck versus Chunky. Another person, Monica G. Wrote in and said, it's feral. Angela Kinsey is right. Jenna Kayla M. Wrote in and said, I'm with Angela Kinsey and the rest of the English speaking world on the pronunciation of feral. Eileen G. Said, as someone who works in TNR with feral cats, Angela is correct on the pronunciation. Lady, I felt very seen. This is my Chuck moment when everyone came after me for chunket feral.

[A]

All right, while you were reading that, I did Google it and I stand corrected.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

Mispronounced. How do you Say it. Feral. Feral. A feral cat.

[B]

There it is.

[A]

Not a feral cat.

[B]

Not a feral cat.

[A]

Oh, you have to put a bunch of English on it, lady. Feral cat.

[B]

Thank you to everyone who wrote in about that. I really enjoyed it.

[A]

All right, well, here's another one. Emily M. Wrote in to say that she loves our location breakdowns and enjoyed hearing about where we filmed the lake scenes for this episode. And she thinks we need to do a special episode called Scranton Locations, and we should record it from Scranton as we visit all of the iconic office locations. What do you think, Angela?

[B]

I think my calendar in 2026 is pretty open.

[A]

Oh, okay. Let's go to Scranton and do an episode called Scranton Locations. All right. Thank you for the idea, Emily M. All right.

[B]

Lola G. From Brooklyn wanted to know if there were any fun candy bag alts for this episode. Well, Lola, I went digging and here's what I found. Remember that famous Angela talking head where she says, I'm not surprised Pam is the office mattress. Well, there were two candy bag alts for that, and I want to share them with you. Okay, the first one is Angela throwing some sass at Jim. Ready?

[A]

Okay.

[B]

The purse girl, Karen. Now, Pam, note to Jim, the zipper goes up as well. The next one is Angela throwing shade at Pam. It was a must shoot along with the Pam Office mattress one.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Okay, here it is. I share very private things with Pam, and as it turns out, Pam tells me nothing. I think she's repressed.

[A]

Oh, okay.

[B]

That might be the pot calling the kettle, but yeah, those are some fun candy bag alts. Thanks, Lola, for writing in.

[A]

Well, Angela, I have one more that I wanted to share. It's a little tidbit from Timothy in Eugene, Oregon. He wrote in to say, I remember going on the Dunder Mifflin Infinity website. So I was excited to hear you talk about it. There were a few games you could play. Did you know there was one where you dress Creed?

[B]

What do you mean? Like, dress somehow?

[A]

Yes, it was. I went to the link that Joya sent us. It was like a paper doll game, and it was called Make Creed Young Again. And you could dress Creed in various clothes and hairstyles and accessories to try to make him look younger so he could keep his job.

[B]

Amazing. Amazing.

[A]

Well, thank you all for writing in. I enjoyed those letters.

[B]

So did I.

[A]

Before we get to the episode, I would like to give a plug to the musical Suffs, which is now touring the US My friend Michelle Cashman is one of the producers, and I saw it when it was on Broadway. It is fantastic. It's an original musical that tells the story of all of the just brilliant, passionate, funny American women who fought tirelessly for the right to vote. I took my daughter, she's 11. She loved it. She actually went back to see it with some of her other school friends. And this summer when she was doing debate camp, she had to pick an influential American figure to debate. She had to say, who is someone in history who was very influential and important. And she picked suffragist Alice Paul. And I said, oh, how did you learn about Alice Paul? Like, she just picked this name out of, you know, just off the top of her head and she said, mom from the musical Suffs. Aw. So the musical is both educational and entertaining. The music is great. It won two Tony Awards for best book and best score, and it's great for the whole family. It starts running in LA on November 18, but it's moving all across the country. It's gonna be in Philadelphia, Hartford, Charlotte, Dayton, Detroit, Lincoln, Rochester, Washington, D.C. and Chicago. You know, my new favorite city, just to name a few. But I want to shout it out because I love supporting theater and I'm really proud of my friend for championing this to the stage.

[B]

That's fantastic. We'll all have to check it out. All right, everybody who wrote in. I always love the little nuggets of trivia. We unlocked together and now please enjoy our second drink of Dunder Mifflin Infinity Part.

[A]

I'm Jenna Fisher.

[B]

And I'm Angela Kinsey.

[A]

We were on the Office together and we're best friends. And now we're doing the ultimate Office Rewatch podcast just for you.

[B]

Each week we will break down an episode of the Office and give exclusive behind the scenes stories that only two people who were there can tell you.

[A]

We're the Office ladies. Hello, Pam. Sassy.

[B]

I'm wearing my Pam sash shirt and.

[A]

I'm loving is so stinkin cute. I can't wait to get mine.

[B]

They're really cute and they're a conversation starter because I parked in the parking lot here at Earwolf and as I was walking in a guy, by the way, it was 10:50am A guy had a cocktail in his hand and said, what party are you going to?

[A]

Okay.

[B]

I was like, he was in fluorescent yellow shorts with a white T shirt and I was like, I'm. What? Is it because of my. Is it because of my Pam sash shirt you think I'm going to a party?

[A]

I'm pretty sure it had absolutely nothing to do with your shirt. That you could have been dressed in literally anything. This is 100% about him and his shorts and his cocktail before 11.

[B]

Yeah, well, he's doing it.

[A]

All right, today is Dunder Mifflin Infinity Part one. This is season four, episode three. This is another one of our one hour shows that was meant to kick off season four. We're dividing it into two parts. This episode was written by Michael Schur and it was directed by Craig Zisk.

[B]

Yes. All right, Jenna, you're up. It's summary time.

[A]

Here is a summary of what we are covering today. When Ryan tries to implement new ideas like issuing everyone a BlackBerry and announcing the new Dunder Mifflin Infinity website, Michael feels he may be a victim of ageism. Jim and Pam's relationship goes public, and they are now forced to face the scrutiny of the entire staff. Meanwhile, Angela is going to give Dwight one more chance after his mercy killing of Sprinkles.

[B]

Yup.

[A]

All right, fast fact number one. Like I said, this episode was directed by Craig Zisk. He had been an executive producer on Weeds, the United States of Tara and the Larry Sanders show, and more recently, Brooklyn Nine Nine. He's directed a ton of television. He directed a bunch of episodes of Scrubs and movies. Do you remember Craig?

[B]

I do remember Craig. And actually, when Craig came to direct, we had a little thing in common, which is I had worked with his brother Randy Zisk, who's also a producer and director, and he had directed me on my episode of Monk. So when I saw Craig, we sort of, like, had this moment. He was like, hey, you were on my brother's show. And I was like, yes. How are you?

[A]

Well, I had a little thing, not in common with Craig, but in adoration of him, because when he was 25 years old, he was one of the producers of the television show Cop Rock. Do you remember Cop Rock, Angela?

[B]

No, I've never heard of it.

[A]

Oh, my God.

[B]

What?

[A]

Oh, my God. Okay. It came out in 1990.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

It was on ABC. It was. Brace Yourself, a musical comedy drama show about the lapd.

[B]

Oh, my gosh. There's so much happening.

[A]

Okay. It was created by Steven Bochco, who had also created the very famous Hill Street Blues. And basically, Angela, it was a cop show. Like, maybe imagine Law and Order, if all of a sudden, in the middle of the episode, they break into song.

[B]

No.

[A]

Yep.

[B]

No, I can't do it.

[A]

Here is an audio clip from an episode.

[B]

Oh, God.

[A]

You know, when they all gather in the room and like, the lieutenant is like, here's what's on the docket today. We got this happening and this happening.

[B]

Yeah, yeah.

[A]

Okay. That's what he's doing at the top of this scene. Sam, will you play the clip item last on the teletype? We still got the Franklin Avenue flasher.

[B]

Okay, that's it.

[A]

And hey, hey.

[B]

Let's be careful out there. Let's be careful out there. We had a 187 at the 711 on the corner of 4 wasn't mean. No, they did not.

[A]

They did.

[B]

No, they didn't.

[A]

It was canceled after 11 episodes. Why? TV Guide ranked it number eight on its list of the 50 worst TV shows of all time in 2002.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

But it actually won two Emmy awards for editing and outstanding achievement in music and lyrics. I want you to know I loved this show. I watched every episode.

[B]

This is all we need to know about you, Jenna.

[A]

It was like Glee but a cop show. It was brilliant. You can find it on YouTube.

[B]

It sounds like an SNL parody of, like, a cop show or something. That is amazing. I now have to go see just one. I mean. I mean, I have to see one where they're like, we got the perp in the cell. We're gonna frisk him now.

[A]

I think that's a song. I think there's.

[B]

I got the perp. Frisk em up.

[A]

Ooh. Frisk em up.

[B]

Frisk em up.

[A]

That's a good one. Frisk em up. Frisk em up. Frisk em up Frisk him down. What did you find? Is there a gun? Is there a knife? You just have to frisk him. The show really rates itself.

[B]

Oh, my gosh. Wow. I want you to be safe out there. You heard him.

[A]

Be safe out there. Be safe. This is now, like, a hybrid west side Story Cop Rock.

[B]

That's all I could picture in my mind. Oh, my Lord. Okay. That's amazing. And Craig worked on it.

[A]

He was one of the producers. Well, I'll bring us back with fast fact number two.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

This episode, Dunder Mifflin Infinity, aired in October of 2007. And also in October 2007 was a big office convention in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

[B]

Yes. And a whole bunch of us went. A huge group. I mean, it was like Greg went. And Mike Schur and Jen Salata, a bunch of the writers and the cast. I think the whole entire cast was there except for you and Steve. Right. And John. Everyone else went, like, the whole shebang.

[A]

I was not allowed to go because, remember, I shared last week about how I broke my back and I was not cleared for Plane travel at this time.

[B]

I was super sad you weren't there. I found some emails where we traded emails. You were like, please tell everyone I said hi. But it was a absolute blast. Scranton was so much fun. Scranton, everyone there was great. And then me and Craig and Brian went on the Today show with Al Roker. Al Roker came to Scranton and we did the Today show from there with him. And, I mean, it was just a blast.

[A]

I was so jealous. That looked, like so much fun. You guys did, like, a whole Q and A panel and, like a meet and greet, Right?

[B]

And we did, like, a concert. Like, there was a concert, and a bunch of people from the office performed like Craig and Melora. And, like, everyone got up on stage. It was so much fun. But, you know, lady, this was something you and I both share, because I was able to go to this convention. But then at the end of the show, there was another one, like a big wrap party convention, and it was my daughter's birthday, so you went to that one. So I found all these emails, Jenna, where we sort of bookend this experience for each other, because I went to one and you got to go to the other.

[A]

Yeah, I remember that. I was so glad I got to go to that one at the end of the show because I couldn't, like, leave the experience of the office having never visited Scranton. I know. So I just remember I was really jealous that you got to go, and I was bummed that I had to stay home.

[B]

But, you know, well, you know, we've never gotten to go together, and that's on my bucket list. When this podcast is done, I want you and I to go to Scranton. That's on my wish list.

[A]

I want you and I to go to Scranton and just anonymously sign up for the office tour.

[B]

Oh, my God.

[A]

And just show up and be like, take us on the tour.

[B]

Yes, to all the spots. I want to do it. Well, listen, there was something else going on during this time. I don't know if you remember, but we were on the COVID of Entertainment Weekly magazine.

[A]

We were.

[B]

It came out October 5, which was the day after this episode aired. And there were a few sets of couples. Steve and Melora, as Jan and Michael were on one cover. And then Angela and Dwight were on one, and Jim and Pam and then Ryan and Kelly, so you could pick which issue had the COVID But then we were all on the inside in this big group photo.

[A]

I remember doing that photo shoot.

[B]

I know.

[A]

It was so fun.

[B]

It was such a cool day, and I couldn't believe it. Like, I had always, you know, picked up Entertainment Weekly. I loved television. It was like my dream to be on tv and then to all of us, be on the COVID and be in it with you guys. I couldn't even believe it. I have one framed.

[A]

Well, this is what was happening at this time, which was that the show was truly blowing up, and we were on covers of magazines, and it was so surreal. Early on, I tried to save every single mention of us or the show from any publication because I. It just felt so fleeting. And then at this time, it became impossible. It was just constant, and we were really out in the zeitgeist. Is that the right word?

[B]

Yeah, yeah. No, the show was just really catching on. I'll tell you what, between my mom and my grandmother and my cousin Carol and my aunt Brenda, I think I have everything we were ever mentioned in, because they saved everything and they would send it to me.

[A]

Well, speaking of being out in the world in a big way, fast fact number three, we got a lot of fan mail from people about the Dunder Mifflin Infinity website, and they wanted to know if it was real. Well, it was real, and it went out into the world around this exact same time as this episode.

[B]

That is right. And we reached out to Joya Balfour. Joya, as you remember, Jenna was part of the [e-mail], and you guys, networks were not doing digital content during this time. It's just something they didn't do. So NBC was really on the forefront. And I talked to Joya, and she was saying they were trying to find ways to sustain the fandom to keep fans engaged. And one of the things they did was they launched Dunder Mifflin infinity.com you could go on and play these games. There were virtual branches that fans could join. They could perform tasks where they would earn shruit bucks, and then they could spend their shrut bucks on virtual items in sort of like the office. And they went around to all of our desks. They took pictures of the set so that they could actually buy virtual items. And this site ran for three years on NBC.com and fans got signed items from the show. And also, if they submitted their artwork, it would be displayed in episodes. Jenna, fan art was put around the set so your art might make it into the show. It might end up on the refrigerator in the kitchen or on a bulletin board like by Creed and Meredith. And fans could look for their art if they won. Isn't that amazing?

[A]

It's really incredible because I just Want to remind everyone, there was no Instagram. There were no apps back then. Like, this was really, really revolutionary in terms of that idea of fan engagement and getting to participate in some way actively with your favorite show.

[B]

Yes. And they even made a video. And actually I have audio of it. Sam, can you play the video of Dunder Mifflin Infin?

[A]

Do you like paper? Well, we like you. Dunder Mifflin is looking for bright, energetic paper people to open up their own branch and become part of the Dunder Mifflin family. Interested in your own future? Go to Dunder mifflininfinity.com to find out more. I love it.

[B]

Isn't that great? And I asked Joya who did that voiceover, and she said that's just a voiceover actor that they hired. She has a whole page on her website, joyabalfour.com, where you can look at Dunder Mifflin Infinity and what all they did with it. You can actually watch that video that we just played for you. And I told Joya over the next few episodes, the next few seasons, I'm going to reach out to her. Kind of like your Kintopedia. Because I really started becoming a more active participant on NBC.com I did a thing called Adventures with Angela. We had the accountants webisodes. There were a lot more fun things we started to do. And I'm gonna hit her up along the way.

[A]

I love that they should relaunch this. They should relaunch Dunder Mifflin Infinity as an app.

[B]

I know.

[A]

And you can do all these same things. Someone, Joya, I don't know who does this.

[B]

Peacock, get on it.

[A]

Peacock, are you listening? Do this.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Well, lady, listen, I think we should take a break. Those were incredible fast facts. We are killing it today and giving us complimen. But let's take a break and then we'll come back in and get into this episode.

[B]

Okay, great. Because I've got more details, lady.

[A]

More details.

[B]

I know I'm not Kintopedia, but maybe I'm Kinsipedia on this one.

[A]

Kinsipedia after the break.

[B]

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[A]

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[B]

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[A]

Just go to indeed.com officeladies right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Indeed.com officeladies Terms and conditions apply. Hiring do it the Right Way with Indeed. Hey friends, I'm Sharon McMahon, host of the Preamble. Listen, I know you're dealing with a lot, and it's even harder to do it when the world around you feels chaotic, but I'm here to help. Each week, my expert guests and I slow things down to talk about the stories shaping our world, what's really happening behind the headlines, why it matters, how it all connects, and if you're ready for real understanding and maybe even a little bit of hope, Follow and listen to the Preamble wherever you get your podcasts.

[B]

This podcast is sponsored by Squarespace. You guys know we love Squarespace. It is the all in one website platform for entrepreneurs to stand out and succeed online. So whether you're just starting out or you're managing a brand that's already growing and off to a great start, Squarespace makes it easy to create a beautiful website that's going to help you engage your audience and sell anything from products to content all in one place. And you can design it on your terms.

[A]

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[B]

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[A]

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[A]

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[B]

Yeah, pretty much. You go to simplisafe.com right there on that website. You can customize the perfect security system for your particular living space because everyone's homes are different and you're going to have different things that you need to make your home feel secure. And SimpliSafe.com has everything you're going to want.

[A]

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[B]

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[A]

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[B]

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[A]

All right, we are back and we open this episode in the break room where there is no more heartbreak. In fact, there is flirty, flirt, cuteness in there.

[B]

In fact, I'm pretty sure it's now called the flirt room.

[A]

I think you're right. Jim and Pam. Pam has already gotten Jim a soda because she knows what he likes because she's his girlfriend.

[B]

And then she gives him a little peck, little kiss as she's leaving.

[A]

But Toby sees.

[B]

Can we talk about Paul's expression?

[A]

We can.

[B]

I froze on his face. I was laughing so hard. It's. I don't even know what all it's conveying. It's conveying so many things at 20 seconds. Toby's face.

[A]

Well, Paul does some amazing reaction acting in this episode. If you are an actor and you would like to study great reactions, this is a real good one to study.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Well, what happens after this is that Toby puts out a memo regarding PDA in the workplace and everyone's reading it and Jim and Pam are like, what is this about?

[B]

Toby is so passive aggressive.

[A]

He really is.

[B]

He clearly has issue. But he's gonna put out a memo. Come on, Toby.

[A]

Well, Michael thinks that the memo is about that night, that he and Jane did some stuff in his office. But I mean, he says almost everyone was gone for the day. This is ridiculous, Toby.

[B]

Yeah. And then Angela thinks it might be about her and Dwight. So she yells from across the room and makes this big statement that she's never been intimate with anyone in the office.

[A]

And that is when Toby says, no, no, it was a complaint about Jim and Pam. And then he basically outs their relationship to the whole office.

[B]

I mean, Toby this is twice now. Cause he did this with Oscar and now with Jim and Pam. He's announced that they're dating, and everyone freaks out, but no one. No one freaks out more than Michael.

[A]

Well, Michael is giddy. Michael doesn't even know what to do with himself. And Steve's performance is so sweet. He is so genuinely excited that Jim and Pam are together. He makes them hold hands, and he makes a big declaration. This day will go down in infamy.

[B]

He makes you guys hold hands, and then he really bear hugs Jim, and then he goes to hug you, but your phone starts ringing. And Pam's like, oh, like, rescued by my phone. And he's like, no, no, Pam, let it ring. Let the bells of Dunder Mifflin chime out your love.

[A]

But then he has that really famous line that I've seen people write on their graduation hats.

[B]

I've seen it everywhere. I've seen it, like, stitched on a pillow on a graduation hat. It's so good.

[A]

Say it, Ange.

[B]

My heart soars with the eagle's nest.

[A]

Incredible. Now, we said this episode was written by Mike Schur, and that has to be a Mike Schur special right there.

[B]

It has to be. Now we see a series of talking heads. And Jenna, I was very curious about this. Cause you like to deep dive on positioning. Oh, that sounds like. That's what she said.

[A]

That sounded different than what I think you mean, but go on.

[B]

As it was coming out of my mouth, I knew it was wrong. Ah, that's what she said.

[A]

That's what she said.

[B]

So Dwight's talking head. He's like, I don't see it. I think they could do better. He is sitting in front of the wall, and off of his left shoulder is the bullpen, right?

[A]

Yep, yep.

[B]

Then it cuts to me, and I say, I'm not surprised. Pam is the office mattress, which is such a great line. But I'm sitting in front of the window with the wall to my right shoulder.

[A]

Yeah, there's more wall and more window, depending on whose talking head it is. It's not always the exact same shot. I noticed that too.

[B]

And then it cuts to Andy, and he's framed the exact same way that Dwight was. And I realize I'm becoming one of the fans of the show, where I'm like, mmm, is there something there? But I'm like, this is an interesting love triangle that's about to play out. And this is a little bit of a Dwight, Angela, Andy sandwich.

[A]

I don't think you are reading into it. I Noticed the same thing. I feel like they purposely didn't set all the shots the same. And they also differentiated Angela from the two men. Yeah, that can't be an accident.

[B]

It can't be. All right, well, now we're gonna get into the episode, right? We have our opening credits, and the first scene is the party planning committee. They're setting up for Ryan's return. Phyllis and Angela are hanging a banner that says, welcome back, Ryan. Three minutes, 28 seconds. Skin alert.

[A]

What's a skin alert?

[B]

Well, my sweater in this episode, I feel like the dry clean shrunk it. Like it fit one day, and then the next day, it got a little tighter. And as I'm hanging the banner, you see. See? Like my midriff.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. That's very out of character for Angela.

[B]

It's very scandalous. It's scandalous.

[A]

Well, double skin alert. Kelly arrives. She is all zhuzhed up. She's like, oh, is Ryan coming back today? I had no idea. She looks super cutie pie.

[B]

She looks super cutie pie. We also, in this scene, have a list of. That's what she said that Michael had ready to go.

[A]

Oh, please, please read it.

[B]

Here it is. Can you make that straighter? That job looks hard. You should put your mouth on that. You might want to trim it a little.

[A]

Yeah, I liked it when he said, you might want to put your mouth on that. And Pam says, how. I don't understand how you were even planning to use that naturally. And he was like, under his breath. He's like, if you were blowing up balloons.

[B]

I was just.

[A]

I don't know, just balloons.

[B]

I had it ready. I was ready to go.

[A]

Well, now we have sort of an interesting little spy shot. We've got some black and white footage of the elevator bay, which is meant to be, I guess, security camera footage.

[B]

Yeah. But they. This is, like, something we don't do on the show. So it was jarring to me when I saw it again. Cause I hadn't seen this episode in so long, and I was like, whoa. What's up with the security camera footage?

[A]

Well, what was odd is that we then switch to a spy shot from our regular documentary camera. Yeah, so it was a little bit. I found it a little bit odd as well. But that's what that black and white footage is supposed to be. And the reason they're showing this is because Dwight and Angela have met in this elevator vestibule so that he can present her with a new cat. A feral barn cat.

[B]

Feral.

[A]

Feral. Feral.

[B]

How do you say feral.

[A]

Feral. Feral. Tomato, tomato.

[B]

You say feral.

[A]

Feral.

[B]

A feral cat.

[A]

A feral cat. Feral. Feral.

[B]

It's feral, right?

[A]

It's tomato, tomahto.

[B]

Sam. Feral. Sam sided with me, and Dwight says feral in the episode. But anyway, Jenna, we'll just chunk that aside and let you say feral.

[A]

Listeners, do any of you say feral? Please write us.

[B]

All right, so, yes, Dwight gives her garbage. And this poor cat, they put, like, stuff in its hair to make it look kind of grungy, like it had been eating garbage.

[A]

Well, we had a fan question from Rivka Wasserman. Did they gel the cat's hair before the shoot to make him look like more of a stray cat? Well, I reached out to Kim Ferry, and she said they did that. Her memory is that the trainer had a little bit of honey. We had warned the trainer of this very well trained, domesticated cat that we wanted it to look feral. And so they suggested something natural like honey to kind of rough up the cat's fur. And so that's what they used.

[B]

Yes. These trainers were so great with the cats. And obviously honey isn't going to do anything that's just, like, organic. I do have amazing memories of this scene. I want you guys to know that this cat was crawling all over Rain. All over him.

[A]

Well, you can see it in the episode. Like, every shot, the cat is in a different position.

[B]

It kept jumping out of his arms. And so we really had to sort of deliver the emotion of the scene but get our lines out quickly because this thing was climbing off Rain and wanted to go exploring the whole scene.

[A]

Well, my favorite is the shot where it's, like, clearly crawling over his shoulder. And then one second later, he's holding it like a baby.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

In his arms. Because it's amazing. Clearly, the cat was everywhere.

[B]

The cat was everywhere. And the cat wranglers were, like, stepping in and being like, okay, here, try holding him this way. Try this. When the cat jumps out of Rain's arms at the end, that was, like, the easiest moment to film because it wanted to. It wanted to go explore.

[A]

Well, Ange, a lot of people asked if this was the same cat that Andy gives you later that becomes Bandit. I mean, it's. I wouldn't think it was meant to be the same cat. Like, I think what they're thinking is, oh, Dwight lets this cat go. And then years later, Andy finds it again and calls it Bandit.

[B]

Well, that would be hilarious, but that was never conveyed to us in the script. It's just that Andy wants to give Angela a Cat. What I found interesting about that, and obviously we're going to get to that episode, is that Angela accepts the cat from Andy. Right?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But does not accept the cat from Dwight and does it right in front of Dwight to sort of, you know, just really drive the point home that he's not her fella anymore.

[A]

Well, as a person who worked in animal rescue for years and years, I will tell you that I don't recommend giving pets as gifts because so many of the pets that are surrendered were gifts that people were not prepared to take care of in the long run, or they break up or whatever happens. I just think people should pick their own pets. Or really what my mom always said is, let the pet pick you. That's how you get your match.

[B]

Yeah, I like that. I definitely feel our pets picked us, for sure.

[A]

Yeah, that's how we got Sunny. We went into this rescue center because we were told that one of the volunteers was going to bring in this box of fluffy gray and white cats. They were so cute. They'd sent us pictures. My daughter was all excited. And we got there, and the woman was running late. So they took us into a room with all of these adoptable cats and kittens. And this one little scrappy orange fellow would not leave us alone. I always say. It was like he walked up to us and he was like, hey, guys, what's up? Good to see you. My name's Sunny. I'll be coming home with you. You can take a look at these other guys if you want, but I will be your cat. And that's kind of how we got Sunny. He wouldn't leave us alone, and we could never been happier.

[B]

That was Biscuit. Biscuit just tried to hide in my sweatshirt, and I thought, well, you gotta come home with me now. Exactly. My sweatshirt is your home.

[A]

Well, listen, switching gears back to the show.

[B]

Yeah. Don't get us started on our rescue pets. It'd be a huge tangent.

[A]

Pam and Jim are gonna go to Toby and offer to sign one of the famous love documents.

[B]

Yes, the relationship disclosure form. And Toby's like, you know what? That's only for people who are serious. And he's sort of implying this isn't serious. Right. Because, you know, Toby has his big crush on Pam, and so he's hoping this is casual. But, Jenna, there's a great scene in the bloopers where at the end of the scene, Toby just tries to hold Pam's hand in front of Jim. And you guys couldn't get through it. You just start laughing.

[A]

I Remember trying to shoot that. I don't think we ever got it, and that's why we never included it. But it was also just something we thought was so funny in the moment. It was like an improvisation that Toby would slowly try to hold Pam's hand during this scene and squeeze her hand.

[B]

Yeah. And Jim's like, what's happening?

[A]

Well, then Ryan returns.

[B]

Yes, Ryan, with his new look and his love of blackberries walks in.

[A]

Oh, my God, BJ's performance is so good. When he's absorbed in his phone and Pam's like, hey, Ryan. Well, he's like, one second. And then, like, after he's done typing, he puts it down and he's like, hey, Pam, how's it going? It was so good.

[B]

Well, you know, in this scene, I know what you guys are all really here to find out about is a sad plant alert. Oh, no. Six minutes, seven seconds. Sad plant. I think Pam now for sure, the plants aren't going to have a chance because she's in love.

[A]

Yeah, she doesn't have time for that.

[B]

It's the tiniest little, like, two green leaves sticking out of the pot. It's, like, so tiny.

[A]

Well, the thing that I remember about this scene, Angela, is when the character of Kevin runs up to Ryan and ruffles his hair, he gives him a noogie.

[B]

He, like, puts him in a headlock and gives him a noogie.

[A]

Those guys could not get through that moment. Every time, it would make BJ laugh. BJ thought it was so funny and he would break. And I remember we couldn't get through it.

[B]

And Brian, too. I loved it when. When he's like, fire guy. And then Andy comes over and he's like, fire guy. And Brian is. Kevin is like, you weren't here for that. I know. And then.

[A]

And then Andy says, here for what?

[B]

Yeah. So good.

[A]

It's so good. Well, we had a fan question from Lauren C. She wanted to know about Ryan's new look. You know, he's got the facial stubble, he's slicked his hair back, he's wearing a fancy suit. Lauren wants to know, was BJ told to grow facial hair for this season where he's the boss, or did he just personally decide to grow some? Well, I texted BJ about this. He said this look was definitely not a personal choice. He said he thinks it was a pitch by Jean and Lee. At first the pitch was a goatee, but Greg said no. He said it was too on the nose.

[B]

Yeah, goatee is too much. The whole look was Very kind of like Gordon Gekko. You know, the movie Wall Street? It was like, you know, Ryan thinks he's the king of New York now.

[A]

Yes. BJ said that. He always just kind of rolled with pitches like this. And then he said, case in point, the upcoming blonde hair.

[B]

Oh, yeah. Yeah.

[A]

Ryan's gonna go through a few looks before this whole thing is over.

[B]

Well, Ryan in this scene, though, really puts Michael in his place. And everyone, he's like, hey, you know what? Enough. This is inappropriate. And it stops right now. And the whole bullpen, it's like you could hear a pin drop. We're like, oh, my God. And then Michael has this fantastic talking head. I just loved it so much. He's like, yeah, maybe, you know, maybe he spoke to me like that. But there was a twinkle in his eye. And that twinkle said, dude, we're friends, and you know me, and I'd never take you for granted in a million years. I miss you. I love you. And then he's like. He goes on and on. He's like, his words, not mine.

[A]

This episode, in addition to having great facial expressions from Paul, has amazing Michael talking heads.

[B]

They're so good.

[A]

Well, now everyone's gonna meet in the conference room so that Ryan can unveil his Dunder Mifflin Infinity program.

[B]

I have to point out something. First of all, where did the giant TV screen come from? It's not in there when the party planning committee is setting up. Secondly, you might notice there's no more banner on the wall because there's a deleted scene where, as they all come in on the banner, Kelly has written, she's scratched out Ryan, and it says, welcome back, asshole. And Michael runs up to it and quickly rips it down so Ryan won't see it.

[A]

That is amazing. Well, in this scene, Michael announces two pretty big things. Number one, all essential personnel will be receiving an office BlackBerry phone. And second, we are soon to be launching the Dunder Mifflin Infinity website that is going to streamline ordering. It's going to streamline efficiency. These are his two big announcements.

[B]

Yeah, he says the company is going to get younger and sleeker. And this starts a Creed storyline that is so fantastic. Creed played this so well. His reaction to the words younger, sleeker. He starts looking around. And then he goes up to Ryan at the end. He's like, when's this a new website launch? And then he's like, cool beans. Like he's trying to be hip or something.

[A]

Well, he runs into Michael's office after the meeting, and he's like, you realize what this means, right? You, me, Sammy, Phyllis, the chick you hit with your car. We're all goners. Who is Sammy?

[B]

Who is Sammy? Who does Creed think Sammy is?

[A]

I don't know. Did he mean Stanley?

[B]

Probably. Also, he has sat across from Meredith for years and couldn't think of her name.

[A]

It's incredible. It's just great.

[B]

Well, he calls my character Andrea the office bitch. So Sammy is probably Stanley. So now we have a very cute scene back in the flirt room. The flirt room break room. Jim and Pam are eating lunch together. And Jim's like, I can't believe I, you know, didn't tell you this. This is going to blow your mind. And he tells Pam that Dwight and Angela are dating. And Pam's like, yeah, I already knew that. It's been, like a long time since before your barbecue.

[A]

She says, yeah.

[B]

And then, I love this. This next moment is just titled Phyllis Sass. Phyllis walks in and says, sorry, I didn't know you guys were in here. And Jim says, oh, we're just sitting here. And Phyllis goes, couldn't see your hands. What? What is she implying? First of all, she knew they were in there, okay? So she knew they were to find Pam to tell her this information. Secondly, couldn't see your hands.

[A]

Well, and then John does this awesome move with his hands where he shows them the camera like they're so clearly right here. I loved that moment. That was a Krasinski special right there.

[B]

No, it was perfect. And then Phyllis with a smile. Sass with a smile is like, you know, I'm glad you guys are dating. But Pam, when we get a new client, you have to just send it to, you know, the first available salesperson, not whoever you're sleeping with. That week, that week, that week. It's like Phyllis and Angela both are in cahoots this episode because Pam is the office mattress.

[A]

Well, Angela, I'm calling this a fan sass catch from Snia G. She points out the major Phyllis sass as well, but she added this. According to Phyllis, Pam is in charge of assigning clients to salesmen randomly. Well, according to my husband, who's in a similar kind of office, this is a lot of power given to one person. That is not how the customers are typically assigned to salespeople. The assignment is based on the client's zip code or county to ensure that there is always a clear rule regarding this assignment. Well, I have to say, after college, before I moved to Los Angeles, I was the only receptionist, administrative assistant at a small Marine Audio company in Missouri. Marine and Marine Audio. They made, like, water resistant, waterproof stereo systems for boats.

[B]

Thank you. I needed clarity. Thank you.

[A]

You're welcome.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Whenever we got a cold call for Marine Audio. Right. I would just transfer them randomly to an available sales associate. It was kind of my call. Wow. Yeah, it didn't come up very often, but every once in a while we would get a cold call.

[B]

Pam's job has this weird hierarchy. First of all, she has to ask Angela for petty cash. And then she has these sad plants and this candy that Angela expects her to put out. But now we find out she passes on clients to the sales department. Yeah. And she's Michael's secretary. It's very layered.

[A]

You know, I based a lot of my Pam stuff off of this job that I had at this Marine Audio place. It was about the same number of people as Dunder Mifflin. There was a warehouse where we shipped all the orders, and I was literally Pam. I made the coffee in the morning. I answered the phones. I did everyone's administrative work.

[B]

Did you date anyone there?

[A]

I did not.

[B]

Smart.

[A]

Yeah, smart. I did not date anyone at Marine Audio.

[B]

Okay, well, now we have a gym talking head. And he says, that is why we waited so long to tell people. Did you notice Jim is facing the bullpen with his back to the outside?

[A]

No.

[B]

Because his future's in the bullpen.

[A]

His future is Pam, and she's out there.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

He now has a future at Dunder Mifflin.

[B]

Yes. In his heart.

[A]

It's very interesting. I know. I want to go back one second.

[B]

Okay?

[A]

Just one second. I have been wondering for several episodes now, out loud, when did Jim and Pam tell one another about their shared knowledge of Dwight and Angela? And it is finally revealed in this episode. It's right now at work. What do we believe?

[B]

This.

[A]

This took forever.

[B]

No, I believe it because I think the beginning of them falling in love and finally getting to be together, it was so special to them. I mean, I just feel like they were really absorbed with one another, and now they're at the point they've been dating a few months where they're like, oh, by the way, did you know? You know what I mean? I think they're at that place. I think they were sort of in that fog of love for a few weeks. I buy it. You do not buy it by your sassy.

[A]

I think it would have been the first thing I would have said on our first dinner date.

[B]

I don't think so.

[A]

Hey, by the way, I don't Think.

[B]

After years of loving this guy, the first time you're alone with him, he was like, wait, wait, wait. I'll kiss you in a second. First, we need to talk about toy beams.

[A]

You're probably right. All right, well, now Michael and Ryan are in Michael's office. Ryan is so busy typing on his BlackBerry. Do you remember at this time, Rain and I both had blackberries in real life? And we were. Ryan. We were constantly on our blackberries. We were so annoying. I think Brian Baumgartner had one, too.

[B]

Excuse me? I had one.

[A]

We all had one. That's what you had. You had a BlackBerry. There were no smartphones.

[B]

You had a BlackBerry. And you did not take pictures with your phone. Which is why you and I have so many photos. Like, old timey photos. Because we would bring our cameras to the set and we would take pictures, and then we would go to the mall to that kiosk, and we would develop our photos.

[A]

Yep. It's true. But we could now do emails at work while we were standing between scenes. Because we had our blackberries.

[B]

Yes. And our thumbs were so fast. We got so good at it. And I was a holdout. I did not get the iPhone till way late because I was so attached to my BlackBerry.

[A]

I was the same. I really resented the smartphone screen thing where I, like, pressed on the screen. I was real into the, like, the tangible button thing I kept on my.

[B]

Phone for a long time. When I finally got an iPhone, you know how you can choose the sound so it goes click, click, click, click, click, click, click, click, click. Because I was attached to the sound.

[A]

Well, Michael in this scene wants to make sure that they're on the same page. It's business as usual. And Ryan is like, no, it's the opposite of business as usual. We're literally throwing out the old playbook. We're starting over. We want a younger, faster company. Which leads us into just an incredible talking head by Michael. Just incredible.

[B]

Yeah. I mean, they had a foreign exchange student that lived with him, and he said, we called him my brother because he was. And then he went back to what was formerly Yugoslavia, and he took all of Michael's blue jeans.

[A]

Yeah, Michael had to wear shorts all winter.

[B]

Why, Jenna? Why? Why couldn't his mother buy him any replacement blue jeans for the winter?

[A]

I don't know. But we had several people write in and wonder if this is why Michael covets his blue jeans today and why he dry cleans them. Because of this traumatic event where this foreign exchange student stole all his jeans.

[B]

And his Mother punished him by not letting him buy any new ones. But yeah, he says that is what Ryan is like a fake brother who steals your jeans. Well, Jenna, we should probably take a break. Before we do, I want you to know there was a deleted scene that would have happened in this area of the episode where Michael gets a message and he says to Pam, hey, can you put that in my BlackBerry? I'm too busy right now to input it. Will you put that in my BlackBerry? And he makes a big speech. So it's like I am using my BlackBerry. Pam, please enter that in my BlackBerry. And then there's a Pam talking head and she goes, yeah, Michael doesn't know how to use his BlackBerry. And so when he says for me to put it in his BlackBerry, he means for me to write it on a post it and stick it on top of the BlackBerry. And then you see, you see his phone is covered, his BlackBerry is covered with all these little miniature post it note stickies.

[A]

You would love that.

[B]

I would love that.

[A]

That's the best way to give you a message on your BlackBerry.

[B]

I know. Just put a sticky on it.

[A]

All right, well, we'll take a break and we will be back with some Kelly Ryan drama.

[B]

Oh, man. Kelly. Kelly's in rare form.

[A]

Lady. I think there's something weirdly therapeutic about getting fresh socks. Brand new socks.

[B]

Yeah, nice, good socks.

[A]

It's such a treat. It's a nice thing to do for yourself. And I think the best socks are Bombas socks. I asked for Bombas socks for Christmas. My father in law said, what do you want for Christmas? I said, I want Bombas socks like every year. Just get me fresh Bombas socks. And he does now every year. That's what I get. And I absolutely love it.

[B]

They're my daughter and I's favorite. I just ordered a two pack. I got her one and me one of the women's modern ribbed ankle sock. You can get it in an eight pack. I love them. I wear them all the time and so does she. But I have to share one other thing that I put. I put it on my Christmas list. What? Okay. Did you know that Bombas is making slippers now?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

I mean lady, did you see them? They're so cute.

[A]

Yep, I did. Well, I just love this company because for every pair of Bombas that you purchase, Bombus donates one to someone facing homelessness on your behalf.

[B]

We love bombas. You guys head over to bombas.com officeladies and use code officeladies for 20% off your first purchase.

[A]

That's B O-M-B-A-S.com officeladies use code officeladies at checkout. The United States Postal Service has been connecting families, friends and businesses near and far for over 250 years. And during the holidays, that promise is more important than ever because it's about more than just gifts and cards. It's the peace of mind knowing your love will arrive reliably and affordably. That's why they're building a better network to meet your needs this season.

[B]

Working around the clock to ensure timely deliveries, offering easy and affordable ways to ship, and providing everything you need to make your season full of holiday cheer. From stamps to packages, this holiday season, trust the United States Postal Service to carry your most precious deliveries. Visit USPS.comholidays to find tools and tips to help you ship with confidence. The United States Postal service delivering since 1775. You guys. You know, I love, love getting holiday cards. I love sending holiday cards. I start a folder on my Shutterfly account of possible pictures for my Christmas card. I have contenders and then my family votes.

[A]

I want to say that if people don't know how much you love holiday cards, they have not been listening to this podcast. This is definitely something we know about you.

[B]

Here's the other thing I love about Shutterfly. They just make it so easy. They have so many options for you to design your card. If you like them vertical, horizontal. If you like the collage of pictures. If you like one big one. If you like the gold little foil writing you got. Guys, there's so many fun ways to design your holiday card.

[A]

Well, you haven't even talked about the envelopes, Angela.

[B]

Oh my gosh.

[A]

Because my favorite part, I do my holiday cards on Shutterfly as well. Oh, the envelopes. Different colored envelopes. What design do you want for the line? So many choices. Find your perfect holiday [e-mail] officeladies and start customizing today.

[B]

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[A]

This promo code can be stacked with any other offer. Details are on the site.

[B]

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[A]

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[B]

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[A]

Visit sixpenny.com officeladies for a leisurely browse through their impeccably designed pieces and perhaps even order yourself some free swatches.

[B]

So now we're in the annex, and Kelly is telling Ryan, you know what? I am doing great. In fact, I am dating a lot of guys. And he's like, kelly. And she's like, what? She's, like, so pissed. And of course, Toby. Toby is listening to the whole conversation.

[A]

Well, then Kelly says she's pregnant.

[B]

Yeah. And then she has a talking head where she just shakes her head no.

[A]

It made me laugh out loud. It was so funny.

[B]

And then this is how she gets Ryan to go to dinner with her. He's like, okay. She was like, I'm keeping the baby. And he's like, let's just. I can't talk about this now. Let's go to dinner. And then she has a talking head where she's like, we have a date.

[A]

Yes. Well, also in this conversation, Ryan says, I did take our relationship seriously. Karen asked me out six months ago, and I said no.

[B]

Oh, he's such a liar. He's such a liar.

[A]

Well, this was a fan question from Hannah Kallson. Do we think Karen really asked Ryan out, or was he just saying that to make Kelly jealous?

[B]

No, he was to show Kelly how committed he was. The truth is, he hit on Karen and asked her out, and they talked about it in the bathroom in Women's Appreciation.

[A]

That's right.

[B]

It came up. Jim was like, yeah, she told me about that. So, no, Ryan's being a big old liar right here.

[A]

Well, we got a letter from Renata in Brazil about the Ryan and Kelly relationship.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Renata, she was very passionate about it. And here is what she had to say.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

She says, I love this episode so much, but I just need to make a comment about Kelly and Ryan's relationship and how relatable it can be and how it shouldn't be. I've met a lot of Ryan's in my life, and, ladies, it is not worth it. I just want to send some love to all of you and say that you deserve someone who's going to put Your love on top of. So I hope that this crazy relationship will teach you something about what not to accept because you deserve more. I don't know, maybe someone out there needs to hear this. That's from Renata.

[B]

Renata. Applause. You're right. You're absolutely right. Another thing going on during the scene is we quickly see Phyllis and Stanley trying to figure out the BlackBerry. And Jenna, if you go to 12 minutes, 41 seconds in the deep background, you can just see me surfing the Internet. You see me like scrolling through. I jot something down. I scroll through some more. I'm probably shopping.

[A]

That's amazing. Well, then we move into Angela and Dwight having another one of their back to back conversations in the kitchen.

[B]

Yes, but do you know who we have to thank for this moment? Who? Pam. Why? In a deleted scene that would have come right before this, Pam is going to give Angela some advice. Sam, I'm going to play the clip. He tried to give me a new cat to replace sprinkles. As if you could replace sprinkles.

[A]

He just has a hard time expressing himself.

[B]

Well, it's really upsetting me. You probably noticed, but this last week I've been a raging bitch. What should I do? Look, there's a lot of good parts.

[A]

To this relationship, right?

[B]

None of your business.

[A]

Right. We'll just try to focus on those. Why don't you guys go out to dinner tonight and talk about whatever you always talk about.

[B]

Maybe you're right. Yeah. Yeah, I said maybe. So, yes, Angela and Pam met at the elevators and Pam gives her this relationship advice.

[A]

I am so sad that did not make it in. That was delightful.

[B]

It was so fun. It was so fun. So Angela actually takes Pam's advice and is like, okay, there's something worth fighting for here. I'll ask him out to dinner and, you know, maybe. Maybe I'll be able to forgive him. And I'll start with this dinner.

[A]

Well, Dwight offers to make you dinner. He says he will cook you noodles and cauliflower with a side of baked potato. I want you to know, Angela.

[B]

What?

[A]

For whatever reason this caused me to Google noodles and cauliflower.

[B]

I just saw it as, like, she loves her starches and she's a vegetarian. What'd you find?

[A]

Noodles and cauliflower is a very popular vegetarian dish. Oh, the New York Times cooking page had a recipe that looks so good. I think I'm gonna make it.

[B]

Ooh, send it to me.

[A]

Guys. Google noodles and cauliflower. It's a bonanza. It's fantastic. I Can't wait.

[B]

Oh, my Lord. Who knew? Well, now we have what I think is such a deliciously tacky scene. It is a tacky off, if you will, between Jan and Ryan. Oh, it's so good. He's like, well, you know, we should probably talk about the elephant in the room. I got your job. And she's like, didn't get my job. Not my salary, but you'll get there. And it's super tacky. And then Ryan says, scranton suits you. And Jan says, best decision I ever made. Ryan says, you were let go. And then Jan goes, and she looks maniacal. She says, you know what? Love the beard. Keep it forever. And scratches his beard.

[A]

And that makes him super insecure about his beard.

[B]

I thought it was amazing. Love the beard. Keep it forever.

[A]

Well, did you notice what she's wearing in this scene?

[B]

It's a velour jumpsuit, right?

[A]

A Juicy Couture velour jumpsuit, which were all the rage at the. This time.

[B]

Yeah, they said juicy across the butt. Do you remember that?

[A]

Some of them did. Not all of them. But the zipper for the hoodie, because it was a hoodie. And pant set the zipper. It had a little J as its. What do you call that thing you hold in your thumb and finger to zipper?

[B]

The zipper toggle. Yeah.

[A]

Is it called a zipper toggle?

[B]

I don't know, but that's what I call it.

[A]

Yeah. Well, it was a J. I remember there was this really, really popular thing, which was that brides would change into a white Juicy Couture jumpsuit after the wedding, some point during the reception, and they would get it embroidered with, like, just married or like, Mrs. Whatever their new last name is going to be. And I might have done that when Lee and I got married. I might have ordered one of these white.

[B]

But you didn't wear it. I was at your reception. You never came out in your little jogging outfit.

[A]

Well, Angela, there was, like an after after party for the reception for everyone who stayed at the hotel. You left at a certain point. I left early.

[B]

You were annoyed with me a little bit, but I. I was.

[A]

I don't remember being annoyed.

[B]

Well, you left. Well, you just said, and you can't leave yet. And I was like, jenna, because I, you know, I had a toddler. I was like, it doesn't matter what time I go to bed. She's gonna wake up at the same time.

[A]

Were you there for the miniature burgers and fries? Because those came out at midnight. And I think that might have been why I wanted you to stay. There were also miniature shakes because you know I like miniature foods.

[B]

I know you do.

[A]

No, I like it when you take a regular burger and you just shrink it on down to baby size.

[B]

I know.

[A]

Little fries, little fry containers, a little shake with a tiny straw.

[B]

I left around 10:30 and you were like, what?

[A]

You left at 10:30?

[B]

I had a young kid.

[A]

Nothing had happened yet.

[B]

I had a young kid, I had to get home. I had a sitter. I had a sitter who I said I'd be home by 11. And you said to me, you're like, angela, we're gonna watch the sun come up. And I don't know if you know this about yourself, but every once in a while you're determined to party until sunrise.

[A]

Yes. And I've done it a handful of times and it's always the best time. I don't do it too much. I keep it as like a special treat. My wedding night was one of them. And around 2:30 in the morning, I changed into my white velour Juicy couture custom embroidered just married Mrs. Kirk jumpsuit.

[B]

Well, that's so cute. I want to see a picture of that. I did get a cute little jacket that I wore at the end of my wedding as I left that said Mrs. Snyder on the back.

[A]

I remember that.

[B]

Yeah. Okay, so I didn't know that was a thing. And I didn't even know you did it. Oh my God.

[A]

Well, now you know.

[B]

Now I know.

[A]

I'll show you pictures.

[B]

Yeah, I want to see.

[A]

Well, now Jan and Michael are having lunch. And Jan is going to explain ageism to Michael, which is just wonderful.

[B]

It's so good. And there is a deleted scene that they cut to where Michael says to Dwight, I need you to find out everything you can about something for me. Ready? It's called ageism.

[A]

Write it down.

[B]

And he's like, I don't know what it is. I need to find all the details. I don't know if Jan is just pranking me or if it's a real thing, but I need you to find it all out. I need you to do it in an hour.

[A]

Well, Michael has this great line where he's like, wait, are you saying that old people have the same rights as young people? And Jan's like, yes.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[A]

So fan catch from Sadie S in this scene. Hi, Jenna and Angela. I'm Sadie. I'm 14 and I love the office and your podcast.

[B]

Thank you, Sadie.

[A]

At 15 minutes, 10 seconds, when Michael is having lunch with Jan, it looks Like, Michael has a personal homemade salad dressing. It is on his desk in a jar with his face on it. A picture of a salad. And it says, great Scott. Just like the production company of Threat Level Midnight. She said. I couldn't stop laughing when I noticed this. Who thought to make this prop?

[B]

Oh, Sadie, you and I are on the same page. I have a post it note. 15 minutes, 10 seconds. I put salad dressing. I think it's a callback from the Fun Run episode.

[A]

But wasn't that a deleted scene?

[B]

Yes. So, guys, there's a deleted scene. And it's so good. It's in fun running. Michael has this talking head where he's talking about his charity for rabies. And he says, look, it's struggling. And he says, what do I look like, Paul Newman? And then he goes, actually, that's not a bad example, because people have told me I look like Paul Newman. You know, it's the eyes and the face. And he said, also, I make my own salad dressing. He mixes Newman's Ranch with Newman's Italian and sells it at a flea market for a loss. He could make a profit on it if he changed one of the ingredients to wishbone, but he won't do it.

[A]

That is incredible.

[B]

So I think that is his mixture of Newman's Ranch and Newman's Italian.

[A]

Well, what I like to think is that, you know, once something has been established on the show, we like to track it. They're eating a salad, so of course they're going to put his salad dressing out. I bet when we film this episode, we didn't yet know that that was gonna be cut out from Fun Run. Cause they were still in post production on it. And that's why the salad dressing remains.

[B]

Yeah, that's right. I totally believe that. And you guys, as they continue talking and eating their salad, I want you to know, at 15 minutes, 50 seconds, I think Steve, as an actor makes a very bold choice.

[A]

The broccoli.

[B]

He eats a piece of broccoli. I mean, you can't talk after that. It's a good thing the scene ended. That would have taken a long time to chew. And I feel like I see a moment, not Michael Scott. I see Steve Carell go, oh, crap, I just put this piece of broccoli in my mouth.

[A]

I think you're right. I do too. I think you see a moment of regret.

[B]

Mm.

[A]

Well, now, Angela, someone enters the office with jet black hair.

[B]

We don't know who because the camera is tracking him behind his head through the office.

[A]

And it is revealed to be Creed. He wants you to know he's only 30. I mean, well, he'll. In November, he'll be 30.

[B]

He'll be 30. Yeah.

[A]

Yeah, in November. We got a lot of fan questions about this. Sharlia G, Catherine Otto, Kelly Hendricks, Andrea V. And Julie Brown all asked, did Creed really dye his hair for this episode? Well, we texted Creed.

[B]

We did. We had a delightful text thread with him yesterday.

[A]

It was so funny.

[B]

I know.

[A]

Well, he said that it was a vegetable dye that washed out completely, no problem. But he suggested that we tell you all that it was a permanent dye that caused all of his hair to fall out so that he could possibly use this as evidence to sue Jim Ferry, who would then countersue him for libel. And I was like, you're turning our podcast into a courtroom thriller.

[B]

I think Creed yesterday was really tickled because he had a whole text thread with us where he went on and on about his different ideas of, like, a better story of how they dyed his hair. Yes, he was having a good time.

[A]

Texting us, but the truth was, it was just a washout. Vegetable dye. Sorry, Creed.

[B]

And of course, we find out in this conference room scene that Creed used all the ink from the printer.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

He put the printer ink. There is a deleted scene, Jenna, where he has a mirror and he's filling in the spots he missed with a black Sharpie.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

I know, I know.

[A]

Oh, my goodness. Well, we might have to start a different text thread with him about that black Sharpie deleted scene, because I need to know more. By the way, we not only had a text thread with Creed yesterday, just the three of us, we also had a lot of activity on our group office text thread. We were in, like, all texting each other up a storm.

[B]

Yes. And I had a separate text thread with just the accountants going, oh, my gosh. We were text happy as a cast yesterday.

[A]

I guess we were. Well, like Angela said, everyone is gathered in the conference room. Ryan enters to do his BlackBerry tutorial. But Michael tells Ryan, I'm sorry, this is still my office. Have a seat.

[B]

I could not believe that Ryan entertained this. I couldn't believe it.

[A]

Yeah. I mean, as soon as he saw the pictures on the wall.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

He was like, oh, Michael, here we go.

[B]

Here we go. It's the lady from Titanic.

[A]

Mm. The where's the beef Lady.

[B]

Yeah. And then the picture from Big where they're dancing on the keyboard.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And then the last one is Ben Kingsley.

[A]

Yeah. And this is when Pam is like, why did you reuse the old photos. And Michael says, because the ink ran out of the printer.

[B]

Yeah. And Creed kind of is like. There's like.

[A]

But then all of a sudden, someone enters the room just as Ryan has had enough. In walks Robert Dunder, one of the founders of Dunder Mifflin.

[B]

How fantastic was that scene with him?

[A]

It was so good.

[B]

Oh, man. I rewatched it like a few times because he's so perfect. His delivery is spot on.

[A]

Well, Robert Dunder was played by this actor named John Engel. And this is the only episode that Robert Dunder appears in. But John Engle starred on General Hospital. He played patriarch Edward Quartermain. From 1993 to 2012, he did 485 episodes of General Hospital.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

He also did a ton of other television work. He was also an acting teacher at Beverly Hills high school from 1964 to 1985. And listen to who he taught, taught while he was a teacher there. He taught Nicholas Cage, Albert Brooks, Swoozie Kurtz, David Schwimmer, and Jonathan Silverman, among others. He was also an active volunteer for Habitat for humanity. He had five daughters and he passed away in 2012.

[B]

Well, we were so fortunate to have him. He was such a seasoned actor and so, so delightful. And I love the scene.

[A]

He goes on this very, very long, meandering story, but the way he connects.

[B]

It all is so real and organic. And you guys, we have been there. We have all been there at that, you know, family gathering where someone gets up to talk and you're like, what, what do we. What are you talking about?

[A]

Well, yeah, you ask some innocent question like, oh, my gosh, where'd you get your sweater? And they're like, well, it was three years ago and it was raining that day. I remember.

[B]

I remember because I just got my hair done and they gave me a plastic net to put over it.

[A]

Yes. And my friend Cynthia called and she.

[B]

Said, well, you know Cynthia, she had lived abroad, and when she came back, she divorced and married that younger guy.

[A]

Well, she did. But first, remember she had that period of time where she went on that sex sabbatical.

[B]

She did. That's right about when she got that mole removed. Do you remember her dermatologist? He was such a nice guy. Of course.

[A]

Tall guy. Tall guy.

[B]

Tall and had an accent.

[A]

Yeah. But I could never figure out where he was from.

[B]

Yeah, he made a very good dip. And you're like, what?

[A]

You're like, where's the sweater from? Where's the sweater?

[B]

What did we just. Jen and I just completely improvised this Random conversation. But you guys know you've been in this moment.

[A]

Yeah. That was Robert Dunder. And so Michael throws him out.

[B]

Wait, can we also. Sorry, this is hopping around. Can we also talk about how Michael introduced is Robert to everyone, please? He says, who is this worthless bag of bones?

[A]

That's his introduction to the founder of the company. Well, we also had a fan question query from Erin Kearney, who says Robert Dunder mentions Robert Mifflin's wife and her husband, Jerry Trupiano, a South Jersey guy who was tall. My question is, was this a reference to Jerry Trupiano, the longtime Red Sox broadcaster? I thought it might be because so many of the cast members and writers were Boston area folks.

[B]

Well, I believe it to be true because Mike Schur, who wrote this episode, is a huge baseball fan, and I 100% think that's true.

[A]

I think that's a good catch.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Good catch.

[B]

Yeah. He snuck in a baseball player in there.

[A]

Well, as everyone is leaving the conference room, Ryan tells Michael this day was a wash. Michael needs to embrace the new technology as the way of the future. He really needs to get behind this new way of doing things.

[B]

And Michael's like, no, you know what? I'm going to prove you wrong. That the old way is the best way. I'm going to prove you wrong. We don't know what that's going to be. But Michael says that, and Jenna, there is a deleted scene. I have to tell you, there's another department that's very stressed out about this because Ryan has a moment with the accountants where he shows them the new program they're going to use online for all of the accounting of Dunder Mifflin, and it's basically going to make them obsolete.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

So people are freaking out about this new technology that Dunder Mifflin is going to be using.

[A]

Well, we're going to get more of Michael's reaction to all of this in the next episode. We end this episode, though, with Angela and Dwight's dinner date.

[B]

Yes. Well, lady, I have some location trivia. I know you love a good location story.

[A]

I do. And I will tell you, Ivy Burke will be very excited to hear what you have to say, because Ivy would like to know where you filmed the Dwight and Angela dinner.

[B]

We filmed it in the most beautiful neighborhood. It's called the Malibu Lake Mountain Club. It's a private community, so much so that there are no signs off the freeway for it.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

Yeah. It's like they don't want to be found. It's really, really Beautiful. This neighborhood was created in 1924. It was just like a valley. And they made a lake, a man made lake. And the members really wanted to keep it a secret, so they removed the highway signs that gave directions to the lake, hoping to hide it from tourists. In 1936, they built a. A clubhouse with a ballroom and a large patio. And it had a speakeasy, poker room and a mural of the original members. And only members can use the lake and the swimming pool and the tennis court. So it's this little private community. Ronald Reagan was the honorary mayor and technically, that's the first political office he ever held.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

Mm.

[A]

Now let me ask you a question. Did you film at this location? Because this lake is going to feature prominently in the next episode.

[B]

Ding, ding, ding, ding, ding. Okay. So we had this location for one day. Dwight and Angela filmed their dinner date in the lodge at Malibu Lake, their restaurant. And then we will see what happens to Michael and Dwight with the lake in the next episode. But that was all the same day. We filmed our scene at night. So, Jenna, I had a late call time. Oh, there was this huge moon. And after we did the scene, I walked out on this floating dock and just watched the moon for a minute. And it was just like, you know, one of those magical nights on set where you're like, this feels so cool. Because it's really a beautiful little area. And Steve Carell has made their official website ready for this. It says just a few of the famous faces that have shot here. Charlie Chaplin, W.C. fields, Diane Lane, Lloyd Bridges, Lucille Ball, Steve Carell, Bette Davis, Henry Fonda. It goes on and on. But Steve Carell made the list.

[A]

I love that.

[B]

I know, right? Really fun. But this scene between Rain and I, I just loved doing it. We took the scene apart because Dwight is hoping that it's one thing. Angela's trying for it to be a reconciliation and then she just can't do it.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And they wanted me to be able to show that emotion in my face that I was trying. And then I just couldn't get past it. I couldn't get past it. And it's got a couplet of dialogue that I love. It's when Angela says, I heard a joke today. And Dwight says, oh, that's funny. And Angela says, yes, it was.

[A]

Yeah. Well, this scene is just beautiful. It's beautiful for all the reasons you said it's funny. But then it breaks your heart because your performance. Angela, we really see your character's heart breaking in this moment. And. And it's just real. Like, you aren't playing it for comedy. It's just real. And these are the moments of the Office that I'm so proud of as a television comedy that we took these moments to get really real.

[B]

Thanks, lady.

[A]

I liked it.

[B]

Thanks. I really enjoyed this storyline. I loved Dwight and Angela being together and I loved when they were at odds. It was equally fun to play.

[A]

Yeah, it's such a good dynamic.

[B]

Well, you know, Jenna, one of the things that got me so tickled was that during this time, the Dwight Angela relationship was compared by a TV journalist to Hot Lips Houlahan and Frank from mash. And that was a show I grew up watching with my dad. And I just was so tickled by that.

[A]

Oh, that's perfect. And that was Dunder Mifflin Infinity Part one.

[B]

Yes. And I would like to say thank you to Joia Balfour for giving us the digital media inside info. And you can check out her [e-mail] for some fun stuff that they were [e-mail].

[A]

Well, when we pick up this storyline, we're going to have some lovely gift baskets and a huge stunt, especially for our show. I was so impressed. I can't wait to talk about it.

[B]

All right, you guys have a great week week.

[A]

We'll see you next time. Bye. Thank you for listening to Office Lady's second drink.

[B]

This episode was initially created in collaboration with Earwolf.

[A]

Office Ladies is a presentation of Odyssey and is produced by Jenna Fisher and Angela Kinsey.

[B]

Our executive producer is Cassie Jurkins and our audio engineer and associate producer is Molly Nugent. Odyssey's executive producer is Leon Reese Dennis.

[A]

Office Ladies was mixed and mastered by Bill Schultz. Our theme song is Rubber Tree by Creed Bratton.

[B]

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[A]

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[B]

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[A]

Yes.

[B]

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[A]

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[B]

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[A]

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[B]

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[A]

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[B]

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[A]

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