Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me! — Episode Featuring Jeff Gordon
Release Date: June 7, 2025
Host: Peter Sagal | Guest: Jeff Gordon | Panelists: Adam Burke, Negin Farsad, Zach Zimmerman
Introduction & Guest Announcement
The episode kicks off with Peter Sagal expressing his excitement about the live show at the Studebaker Theater in Chicago, Illinois. He announces the special guest for the evening: NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon. To make Jeff feel more at home, Peter humorously mentions that halfway through their conversation, a crew will change all four of Jeff's tires—a nod to Jeff's racing background.
Peter Sagal [00:39]: "It's a little, you know, this sort of thing not what he's used to. So to make him feel more at home, halfway through our conversation, a crew will come out and change all four of his tires."
Listener Quiz with Lauren Ring
The first segment features Lauren Ring from Seattle, a nephrologist, participating in the show's signature quiz. The panel introduces themselves:
- Adam Burke, a comedian performing at Hey Nonnie in Arlington Heights.
- Negin Farsad, comedian and host of the podcast Fake the Nation.
- Zach Zimmerman, a comedian whose debut special Surprise Me is available on YouTube.
Lauren Ring [01:15]: "Hi, this is Lauren Ring calling from Seattle, Washington."
During the quiz, Lauren successfully identifies quotes related to the sudden fallout between Donald Trump and Elon Musk. The witty exchange includes humorous banter about public feuds and personal relationships.
Peter Sagal [03:02]: "Trump gave Elon Musk, his partner, a nice send off in the White House last week. But then things suddenly got real dark."
Lauren answers correctly, showcasing her sharp wit and understanding of current events.
Bluff the Listener Game
Next, the panel engages in the Bluff the Listener game, presenting three fictitious money-making schemes. Craig Ventura from New Haven, Connecticut, participates and correctly identifies the real story about a fake AI company that raised $450 million by pretending to be an innovative AI product.
Peter Sagal [17:33]: "An AI company raises hundreds of millions in investment for their technology that turns out to be just 700 people."
Lauren Ring [19:40]: "Is that right? You just go with Negeen's story? Yeah. About the A.I. okay. That's your choice."
Craig's successful guess earns him the prize, demonstrating the panelists' knack for entertaining storytelling and audience engagement.
Interview with Jeff Gordon
The highlight of the episode is the live interview with Jeff Gordon, a living legend in American auto racing. The conversation delves into Jeff’s early racing days and his transition from BMX bikes to professional car racing.
Jeff Gordon [21:13]: "Yeah, I mean, I guess I just think all professional race car drivers started racing when they were five or six years old."
Peter probes into Jeff's experiences on the track, particularly focusing on the challenges drivers face with radio communications during races.
Jeff Gordon [22:38]: "And these things are being broadcast to everyone, really. So you have to be careful."
Jeff shares amusing anecdotes about communication mishaps and emphasizes the importance of staying focused during races.
The discussion also touches on Jeff's life post-retirement, including his role in co-owning racing teams and his philanthropic endeavors. A humorous exchange arises when Jeff talks about teaching his children to drive, balancing his racing instincts with parental concerns.
Peter Sagal [26:29]: "Here's the question. Are you, Jeff Gordon, one of the greatest race car drivers who have ever lived, going to teach your children to drive?"
Jeff candidly discusses his fears and aspirations as a parent, providing a personal glimpse into his life beyond the racetrack.
Listener Limerick Challenge with Jenny Legath
Jenny Legath from Moorestown, New Jersey, participates in the Listener Limerick Challenge. Bill Curtis presents her with three news-related limericks, and Jenny successfully completes them by filling in the missing words, demonstrating her quick wit and familiarity with current events.
Bill Curtis [38:19]: "Though diet fads often entice me, their meal plans are often too pricey. Now I'll lose my spare tire. When my tongue is on fire, I make sure that my food is too spicy."
Jenny correctly identifies the theme, adding humor to the segment.
Lightning Fill in the Blank Game
The episode continues with the high-energy Lightning Fill in the Blank game, where panelists Adam Burke, Zach Zimmerman, and Negin Farsad race against the clock to complete as many sentences as possible. Adam leads with impressive speed and accuracy, followed closely by Zach and Negin.
Peter Sagal [43:05]: "Fill in the blank. On Wednesday, Adam. President Trump announced a [blank] ban targeting 12 countries travel."
Adam swiftly responds, showcasing his quick thinking under pressure.
Panel Predictions and Closing Remarks
In the final segment, the panelists predict the summer's hottest book. Each brings their unique comedic flair to their selections, adding laughter and anticipation for upcoming releases.
Adam Burke [49:15]: "And Adam Burke, I'm Cheating and Getting AI to read the books for me. So it's working its way through the Asimov classic, you robot."
The episode wraps up with acknowledgments to the crew and sponsors, along with a teaser for future live shows and segments.
Peter Sagal [49:29]: "This was great. Thanks to our fabulous audience here at the Studio Baker Theater in downtown Chicago. Thanks to all of you listening wherever you might be. I'm Peter Sagal. We'll see you next week."
Notable Quotes
- Peter Sagal [03:02]: "Trump gave Elon Musk, his partner, a nice send off in the White House last week. But then things suddenly got real dark."
- Jeff Gordon [22:38]: "We have to be careful because these radios are being broadcast to everyone."
- Adam Burke [49:15]: "I'm Cheating and Getting AI to read the books for me."
Conclusion
This episode of Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me! masterfully blends humor with current events, featuring engaging panel discussions and a captivating interview with Jeff Gordon. The seamless integration of games and listener interactions keeps the audience entertained and informed, making it a standout installment for both regular listeners and newcomers alike.