Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me! Episode Summary: Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe

NPR’s "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!" delivers its signature blend of humor, current events, and engaging quizzes. In this episode titled "WWDTM: Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe," host Dulce Sloan steps in for Peter Sagal to guide listeners through a lively show filled with interactive games, witty banter, and insightful conversations with special guests—sports legends Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe.

1. Introduction and Host Welcome (00:20 - 02:26)

Dulce Sloan opens the show with her vibrant energy, amusing the audience with playful remarks about her role as a temporary host:

• Dulce Sloan [00:20]: "Get out your diaper cream. I am the voice as smooth as a baby's butt."

She introduces the panelists—Helen Hong, Adam Burke, and Alonzo Bowden—setting the stage for an entertaining and interactive episode.

2. Listener Contests and Games

2.1. Listener Contest with Katie Peele (02:26 - 10:02)

Listener Katie Peele from Denver, Colorado, participates in a news quiz challenge. The panelists present her with three news-related quotes, and she must identify or explain two to win a prize.

• Dulce Sloan [03:06]: "All the single ladies. All the single ladies..."

Katie correctly identifies Beyoncé's unofficial endorsement of Kamala Harris, leading to humorous discussions about celebrity endorsements in politics.

• Helen Hong [01:56]: "That's very Colorado, very NPR."

The segment highlights the playful camaraderie among the panelists as they navigate quirky and satirical news snippets.

2.2. Bluff the Listener Game with Kristen (14:17 - 19:59)

Kristen from Pittsburgh engages in a game where panelists share three stories about greeting cards in the news—two fictitious and one true. Kristen must discern the genuine story to win.

• Helen Hong [15:05]: "Getting laid off and not even getting a goodbye card from your coworkers…"

The real story involved a woman named Karen suing British Airlines for not providing a farewell card, only to discover that a card was indeed sent but lacked sufficient signatures.

• Dulce Sloan [19:03]: "I'm sorry you didn't win, but you did earn a point for Adam."

Kristen's thoughtful participation underscores the show's interactive nature and the panelists' sharp wit.

2.3. Limerick Challenge with John Blankenship and Josh (37:28 - 50:52)

Listeners John Blankenship from Franklin, Tennessee, and Josh participate in a limerick game, filling in missing words related to current events.

• Dulce Sloan [38:22]: "Don't dress like a schlub. Hey. And don't stand in the cheap catered grubs way. Champagne corks will pop as they're calling out stops. Cause our wedding is held on the subway."

John correctly fills in the missing word, showcasing his quick thinking and familiarity with the show's humor.

• John Blankenship [41:25]: "I'm a perfect player."

The limerick segment blends poetry with news, adding a creative twist to the quiz format.

2.4. Lightning Fill in the Blank Game (42:15 - 50:52)

In this rapid-fire segment, panelists answer fill-in-the-blank questions based on recent news within 60 seconds. Each correct answer scores points, contributing to the competitive spirit of the show.

• Alonzo Bowden [46:44]: "If my Roomba's chasing my cat, can I call in sick in New York?"

His humorous response reflects the lighthearted approach the panel takes toward even the most bizarre news items.

• Dulce Sloan [43:24]: "During her CNN town hall on Wednesday, Kamala Harris said she believes that Donald Trump is a…"

Panelists swiftly navigate through the questions, maintaining the show's brisk pace and engaging listeners with their quick wit.

3. Guest Segment: Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe (20:09 - 32:37)

Sports icons Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe join the panel to discuss their collaborative podcast, "A Touch More." Known for their illustrious careers and numerous accolades, they offer insights into transitioning their podcast from informal Instagram Live sessions to a fully-fledged production.

• Dulce Sloan [21:16]: "We took out the tipsy part and got a couple of Google Docs going, and that's basically it."

The conversation delves into the dynamics of being a sports power couple with achievements like seven Olympic medals and a Presidential Medal of Freedom between them.

• Sue Bird [23:46]: "We actually have none of it in the house. None of it. It's all, like, in storage or in a safe or something."

Their candid discussion about managing their awards with a touch of humor resonates with listeners, highlighting their grounded personalities despite their fame.

• Megan Rapinoe [22:29]: "Megan watched me in college. How do we feel about this?"

Their playful banter underscores the strong partnership they share, both personally and professionally.

4. Panel Discussions and Humor

Throughout the episode, the panelists engage in humorous debates and commentary on various news topics, enhancing the show's entertaining atmosphere.

4.1. Celebrity Endorsements in Politics (03:53 - 04:33)

• Helen Hong [03:53]: “I love that. Because they keep saying, oh, it's unofficial. It's unofficial.”

The panelists joke about Beyoncé's unofficial endorsement of Kamala Harris, making light of the sometimes ambiguous nature of celebrity political support.

4.2. New York City's "Click to Cancel" Law (05:04 - 07:14)

A discussion ensues about a new federal ruling requiring subscription services to offer easy cancellation methods.

• Alonzo Bowden [07:11]: “So do I have to be drunk?”

The panelists humorously explore the implications of the law, imagining exaggerated scenarios where easy cancellation could lead to unforeseen complications.

4.3. Airport Rules and Social Etiquette (07:24 - 09:21)

A lighthearted take on New Zealand’s new airport rule limiting goodbye hugs to three minutes.

• Helen Hong [08:55]: “This is from an airport in New Zealand, which I feel like this is so off brand for New Zealand…”

The panelists playfully critique the practicality and cultural fit of such a rule, blending real news with imaginative humor.

5. Conclusion and Final Remarks (50:52 - End)

As the show wraps up, Dulce Sloan acknowledges the panelists' contributions and teases upcoming segments and episodes.

• Dulce Sloan [50:22]: “Well, if any of that happens, we're going to ask you about it on Wait, Wait, don't tell me.”

The episode concludes with gratitude towards the staff and crew, ensuring listeners are left anticipating future episodes filled with more laughs and engaging content.

Key Takeaways

• Engaging Interactivity: The episode's various games foster listener participation, making the audience feel like active contributors to the show's dynamic.

• Humorous Commentary on Current Events: Panelists adeptly blend humor with news, providing both entertainment and insightful takes on contemporary issues.

• Insight into Celebrity Lives: The guest segment with Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe offers a glimpse into the lives of two sports legends, their collaborative efforts, and their approach to fame and achievements.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dulce Sloan [00:20]: "Get out your diaper cream. I am the voice as smooth as a baby's butt."

• Helen Hong [01:56]: "That's very Colorado, very NPR."

• Alonzo Bowden [46:44]: "If my Roomba's chasing my cat, can I call in sick in New York?"

• Adam Burke [22:29]: "Megan watched me in college. How do we feel about this."

This episode of "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!" exemplifies NPR’s ability to combine sharp wit with current events, all while celebrating notable guests and fostering a sense of community among listeners. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the show, this episode offers plenty of laughs and engaging content to enjoy.