Judge John Hodgman

Two friends argue whether a low-rent, conversational Pennsylvania public-TV quiz or a fast, competitive Maine trivia show makes for better late-night viewing. They dig into quirky local hosts, panel banter, rapid-fire toss-ups, and how oddball public television became a pandemic-era rabbit hole. The debate hinges on charm versus game design and which show fuels their “Sicko Hours” discovery habit.

A live Portland show covers a heated debate about screen time on flights and creative parenting strategies. A quiche refusal turns into an onstage tasting and surprising truce. A romance vs. practicality clash asks whether asparagus counts as a bouquet and sparks a playful ruling about thoughtful gifts.

A domestic showdown over one partner’s indoor walking loop and the noise, anxiety, and family disruption it causes. Discussions cover why she avoids the basement treadmill, video evidence of the route, and how movement helps her nervous system. Practical fixes and compromises are explored, from timing and heaters to gyms or headphones, while playful anecdotes and demonstrations keep it lively.

A MaxFunDrive teaser about testing late-night snack ideas from listeners. They riff on popcorn mix-ins, crunchy concoctions, and peanut butter creations. A daring PB and Marmite sandwich is made and tasted. The short piece teases member-only bonus content and the chaos of midnight munchies.

A couple argues over a heavy spring-bar canvas tent versus a lightweight nylon option for family camping. They weigh comfort, setup time, repairs, and safety while sharing windstorm photos and a dog-related tent mishap. Practical compromises, trial runs, and who should handle the upkeep come under lively scrutiny.

Stuart Wellington, co-host of The Flophouse, shares behind-the-scenes podcast anecdotes. Dan McCoy, comedian and Flophouse co-host, talks film criticism and craft. They trade hilarious stories about picking movies, finding good conflicts, respect for filmmaking, and how podcasting shapes perspective. Short, funny, and insider-focused.

Couples argue over when it is reasonable to text during the workday and how to set phone boundaries. A sibling’s claimed honeydew allergy sparks debate about past reactions versus current avoidance. A contested Lego set start-time leads to compromise advice. A parade insult, Candyland token confusion, and a mother-in-law’s lamp obsession round out the quirky courtroom docket.

A couple argues over adding an interior door between two halves of a long-held family duplex. They debate convenience for caregiving versus costs, privacy, and rental value. Photos, layout quirks, and hoarding worries complicate a simple renovation. The ruling encourages professional inspection and family conversation.

A sibling rivalry over relentless phone alarms vs. handwritten to-do lists. A family law practice’s work dynamics and how personal systems collide with professional meetings. A 107-page babysitter manual and labeled sentimental alerts get examined. The courtroom unpacks compromises and whether habits should bend for workplace harmony.

It's time for the March Members Only Mailbag! What is the deal with carbonated lemonade?! Is it acceptable to serve at a party? Or should the host be more concerned with non-carbonated beverages for people who don't like bubbles? This and much more in the mailbag! For the full episode, check out the members-only bonus content feed! Not a member yet? You can become a member TODAY at maximumfun.org/join. Just $5 a month gets you immediate access to our full library of bonus content. Thank you to all of our members for keeping this show going! Judge John Hodgman is member-supported! Become a member to unlock special bonus episodes and more. Memberships start at just $5 a month. Just tap here!