Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me! Episode Featuring Josh Gad

Introduction

In the January 11, 2025 episode of NPR's "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!" hosted by Peter Sagal, listeners were treated to an engaging mix of humor, current events, and celebrity interaction. The panel for this episode included comedians Josh Gondelman, Rachel Koster, and Nagin Farsad. The highlight of the show was an interview with Josh Gad, known for his iconic role as Olaf in Disney's "Frozen."

Listener Quiz: Caroline from Stanton, Virginia [01:18 – 04:31]

The show kicked off with Caroline calling in from Stanton, Virginia. Despite Caroline’s initial uncertainty about her hometown's recognition, she delighted the audience with her work on organic vegetable farms. The panel humorously remarked on the typical NPR listener's penchant for visiting farmer's markets, encapsulated by Josh Gondelman's light-hearted comment:

“Everybody listening to this is currently holding a tote bag on the way to a farmer's market.” [02:26]

News Quiz: Donald Trump's Greenland Ambitions [04:31 – 10:05]

Bill Curtis presented Caroline with three news quotes. The first quote discussed Donald Trump's continued interest in purchasing Greenland, an initiative Trump humorously referred to as a national security priority. Peter Sagal joked about the logistics and irony involved:

“Trump says if Denmark doesn’t cede Greenland, he’ll impose massive tariffs.” [04:54]

Caroline accurately identified the Greenland quote, winning the first prize. The discussion then shifted to New York City's congestion pricing, with panelists sharing their humorous takes on the reduced traffic and speculative improvements to public transport. Rachel Koster added levity by recounting an unpleasant subway experience:

“I just want that one wet. Not to come on my feet.” [07:19]

Bluff the Listener: Welsh Controversies [15:34 – 20:19]

In the "Bluff the Listener" segment, Greg from Daytona Beach participated by distinguishing between fictional and real stories about Wales. The panelists presented three outrageous tales involving harp scandals, cockle-eating cheating incidents, and the misuse of Welsh culture in literature. Josh Gondelman correctly identified the real story concerning Welsh scholars' criticism of romantasy novels misrepresenting Welsh culture:

“It’s about making that distinction that the people in the historic stories aren't fairies and are Welsh.” [20:43]

Not My Job: Interview with Josh Gad [20:19 – 31:00]

The "Not My Job" segment featured an in-depth interview with Josh Gad, who discussed his new memoir, "Gad We Trust." Gad humorously reflected on his recognition in various roles, expressing mixed feelings about being synonymous with Olaf the Snowman:

“I regret that now. But at the same time, I'm grateful that so many people love the voice of Olaf.” [22:43]

He shared anecdotes about being recognized for different characters, including a funny encounter with director David O. Russell, who failed to connect Josh Gad with his famous roles. Gad's self-deprecating humor shone through as he navigated questions about his varied acting career and personal experiences.

Listener Limerick Challenge: David from Baldwin Wallace University [38:36 – 43:35]

David Safford from Baldwin Wallace University participated in the Listener Limerick Challenge, where he successfully completed three limericks related to quirky news stories. His witty interpretations included celebrating a 50-year no-haircut streak and humorous takes on toxic Christmas trees.

Fill in the Blank: News Highlights [43:35 – 49:57]

Panelists Rachel Koster, Nagin Farsad, and Josh Gondelman engaged in a rapid-fire "Fill in the Blank" game covering recent news topics. Rachel showcased her quick thinking by correctly answering five out of six prompts, including:

• Wildfires: “On Wednesday, mandatory evacuation orders hit LA as multiple wildfires burned across the area.” [45:21]
• Avian Bird Flu: “On Tuesday, the first US Death from avian bird flu was reported in Louisiana.” [45:26]
• Ukraine Aid Package: “This week, the White House announced a $500 million aid package for Ukraine.” [45:32]

Josh Gondelman clinched the win by answering five questions correctly, including identifying Meta's policy changes and recognizing Justin Trudeau's resignation.

Final Predictions: What’s Next for New York? [50:34 – 51:35]

In the final segment, the panelists humorously speculated on what New Yorkers might have to pay for next following congestion pricing. Rachel Koster suggested payments for rat sightings, while Josh Gondelman jested about paying to interact with friends across the street. Their playful predictions underscored the show's signature blend of humor and topical commentary.

Conclusion

The episode concluded with heartfelt thanks to Josh Gad for his participation and an invitation to listeners to join future quizzes and challenges. The blend of celebrity insight, panelist banter, and interactive games made this episode of "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!" a memorable blend of information and entertainment.

Notable Quotes

• Josh Gondelman on the prevalence of tote bags among NPR listeners:

  “Everybody listening to this is currently holding a tote bag on the way to a farmer's market.” [02:26]

• Rachel Koster on dealing with messy subways:

  “I just want that one wet. Not to come on my feet.” [07:19]

• Josh Gad reflecting on being known for Olaf:

  “I regret that now. But at the same time, I'm grateful that so many people love the voice of Olaf.” [22:43]

• Rachel Koster's quick responses in the Fill in the Blank game:

  “Wildfires.” [45:21] “Avian bird flu.” [45:26]

Final Thoughts

This episode exemplified "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!" commitment to blending humor with current events, all while engaging listeners through interactive segments and celebrity interviews. Josh Gad's appearance provided both comedic relief and personal insight, enriching the overall experience for longtime fans and new listeners alike.