Too Much Information

Your poets of pop culture podcasts stand on their desks and sound their barbaric yawps in salute to this uplifting classic of the twinkly-eyed cinema canon — which made Robin Williams into a dramatic star and an untold number of kids crack open 'Leaves of Grass.' You'll learn about the hilarious aborted start to the movie (which resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars of sets being torched after Robin Williams failed to show up) and the sweet bond that formed between Robin and Ethan Hawke. You'll also hear all about the lost ending that would have made this movie even more tear-inducing than it already is. Jordan recalls his less-than-pleasant days at a Welton Academy-like New England prep school, and he and Heigl debate the very nature of creativity and artistic instruction. It's a surprisingly soul-baring discussion for the TMI Guys, filled with their patented blend of conversational detours, earnest enthusiasm, and nihilism. So carpe that diem and give a listen!

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iHeart's resident Mogwais accidentally got splattered with water, and they've emerged from their cocoons all sticky and vicious -- and ready to talk about 1984's 'Gremlins.' They'll dive into the absolute murderer's row of 80s luminaries involved — Chris Columbus! Steven Spielberg! Joe Dante! — and the real stars of the film: the puppets! — and the man who nearly killed himself bringing them to life, SFX icon Chris Walas. Along the way they'll trace the aviation-related source of the word "gremlin," how this film forced Spielberg and the MPAA to invent the PG-13 rating, and touch briefly — and ecstatically — on the insane blank-check sequel Dante got to do with a different SFX god — Rick friggin' Baker — 'Gremlins 2: The New Batch!' Too Much Information: Just don't feed them after midnight!

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Your professors of pop culture embark on a three hour tour of trivia about this beloved monolith of mid-century sitcom kitsch. It's a ride as wild as the S.S. Minnow's doomed voyage as Jordan and Heigl somehow manage to link CIA mind control experiments, the JFK assassination, numerous tragic Hollywood deaths to talk of the seven castaways. You'll learn all about the hilarious feud among the cast, the ridiculously petty secret meaning behind the boat's name, all the ways Mary Anne was a real-life angel, and a story about the Skipper's final days that is guaranteed to make you sob. In addition to the stranger-than-fiction tales of naive good samaritans who tried to launch their own campaign to rescue Gilligan and Co., you'll also hear all about the truly insane made-for-TV reunions projects that somehow encompassed the Harlem Globetrotters, a nuclear apocalypse and murder. You're sure to get a smile from seven stranded castaways — and two crazy podcast hosts — here on Gilligan's Isle!

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Jordan and Alex close out APE-ril by traveling back in time -- or is it forward? -- to the original Planet of the Apes! No aspect of the original will be free of their dirty paws as they probe the original novel, written by the guy who wrote Bridge on the River Kwai and initially translated as "Monkey Planet!" No APE-spect of the film's torturous run-up to production will be missed, from the 30 drafts Rod Serling wrote to the revolutionary makeup that cost more than the actors! Oh, and there's a Sammy Davis, Jr story! Head into May-PE with Too Much Apes-formation!

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Your Chairmen of the Bored are back with a deep dive into the life and times of Ol’ Blue Eyes and the twisted origins of his signature tune — which went from an obscure French pop song to an immortal karaoke anthem. It was all thanks to former teen star Paul Anka, who wrote the stirring lyrics at his idol’s request on the eve of his retirement. You’ll learn how a Beatle (maybe) witnessed the recording, and you’ll hear an early version of the lyrics written by a pre-fame David Bowie. You’ll discover why Las Vegas became the home base for the Rat Pack, and hear all about Frank’s risky dealings — and crazy love triangle — with the Kennedys and the Mob (and why some believe he maybe-kinda-sorta inadvertently triggered JFK’s assassination…). Jordan and Alex also go deep on the Sex Pistols’ punk-rock cover of the classic, sung by the doomed bassist Sid Vicious, and examine the shocking number of murders that have occurred as a direct result of this song. Regrets, we’ve all had a few — but listening to this episode will not be one of them.  

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Alex and Jordan don their finest sweaters and Buddy Holly glasses to explore one of the touchstones of '90s alternative rock. Together they discuss the enigma known as Rivers Cuomo, touching on how his tumultuous upbringing inspired tracks like "Say It Ain't So" and "My Name is Jonas," why he was disappointed that Weezer weren't heralded as the next Nirvana, and the time he replaced all of his newly-fired guitarist's parts in a single session. The TMI guys also share the (slightly corny) original lyrics to "Buddy Holly," explain how Henry Winkler saved Spike Jonze's famous 'Happy Days'-themed video, and the adorable bond between the band and their producer, Cars legend Ric Ocasek — plus the many reasons why Jordan's beloved Beach Boys are the secret MVPs of this record. 

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Jordan and Alex explore the beloved (yet terrifying) classic of children’s cinema. You’ll learn the many ways the kid who played Atreyu nearly died on the set, the true fate of the horse that sank in the quicksand, the insane lengths they went to build Falkor the Luck Dragon, and Steven Spielberg's secret role in helping finish the movie. They’ll also discuss how the Oracles left some viewers scandalized, why the “Childlike Empress” wore dentures, the ingenious effects that helped create The Nothing, and why the author of ‘The NeverEnding Story’ book hated the movie so much that he sued the studio. 

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Your list-living Lotharios are back with an episode that's just too good to be true. Get ready to dive deep into this crown jewel of the late '90s teen movie boom. You'll learn all about the alternate leads we nearly saw instead of Heath Ledger, the songs he nearly sang instead of Frankie Valli, what exactly was behind those tears when Julia Stiles recited the titular poem, and the on-set romance that will blow your minds. Jordan sounds off on why teen movies from this era are just so damn good, Alex opines on all the ways the band Letters to Cleo nearly died by performing on the roof, and together they speculate on the uncompleted sequel that's been tied up in legal hell for over a decade. 

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Jordan and Alex don their tightest PVC outfits to jack into this week's topic: 'The Matrix,' which turns 25 this month! They'll take this thing alllllll the way back to the Wachoswkis' roots writing Clive Barker comics for Marvel (really) and the early pitches that paved the way for their hit. They'll also get into the grueling training period that the film's leads had to go through, the insane process behind "bullet time," and the film's legacy as both trans allegory and eerie portent of the online hell in which he currently live! You'll also pick up facts about the classic sci-fi authors that inspired the film, the exact provenance of some of the sounds of the Matrix, and whether or not "the Matrix defense" is a real thing that works in court! Too Much Information: We're jacked in!

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Zoinks! The TMI twosome take a ride in the Mystery Machine as they explore 55 years of Scooby-Doo and his human pals. You'll learn how a misheard Frank Sinatra lyric inspired the name of the titular pooch, the '50s sitcom that helped shape the teen characters, and why Velma has been embraced by the LGBTQ+ community — plus discover the origins of the hated Scrappy Doo character, the behind-the-scenes studio battles that erupted as a result of the big screen version in 2002, and the show's bizarre connection to Charles Manson. 

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Your real estate novelists of real interesting facts take a trip down the Joel Hoel with a deep dive into the musical genius and dark underside of the idiosyncratic maestro — who's in the midst of an artistic comeback following three decades of self-imposed creative exile. Though spotlighting his breakthrough classic (which recently turned 50!) you'll also learn about his pre-fame heavy metal band, the recording snafu that nearly ruined his career before it began, the hidden heartbreak behind his greatest love songs, and all the reasons why his signature tune was an unlikely hit. Plus you'll hear all about his ongoing battle with critics, why he hasn't released a new album in 31 years, and why Jordan thinks he just might be the most fascinating Boomer Rock icon of all time.

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The TMI guys are back with an episode you'll want to hear over and over and over again! They're diving deep into this beloved 1993 Bill Murray/Harold Ramis collaboration — a cinematic masterpiece disguised as a standard-fare early '90s rom com. Jordan and Heigl speak at length (and with an almost pathological intensity) about the startlingly deep themes of Groundhog Day, and argue why Danny Rubin's clever screenplay is a genius-level meditation on life, love and what it means to grow as a human being. You'll learn all about the EXTREMELY dark early version of the script that had the main character reliving the same day for 10,000 years, the philosophical and spiritual implications of the movie that touch seemingly every single religion, and the psychotic lengths that some fans have gone to calculate exactly how long Bill Murray spent stranded in Punxsutawney. You'll also hear how on-set drama sparked a heartbreaking feud that ended Ramis and Murray's unparalleled creative partnership (until a the deathbed reunion that rekindled their friendship), the even bloodier feud Murray had with an on-set groundhog, the bizarre origins of the titular holiday, and the perfect reason why that deathless Sonny & Cher song was featured so prominently. 

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On their previous episode, the TMI gang wondered about doing an episode on the windy '90s disaster drama. Then, when the first trailer for the new Twister sequel dropped days later, they knew it had to be a sign. In anticipation of TwisterS, Jordan and Heigl look back at the original. You'll learn all about the injury-filled set, the insane Dutch director who had physical altercations with his crew, the soundtrack that reunited Fleetwood Mac AND broke up Van Halen 2.0, the bizarre animal noises recorded to make that horrific wind sound, the time Bill Paxton nearly saw the assassination of JFK, and the time the SFX experts at Industrial Light and Magic had to use CGI to erase Philip Seymour Hoffman's testicles. Enjoy TMI's 'Twister' Edition — with more hot air than usual! 

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Jordan and Alex head to Hollywood by way of Nashville for an in-depth examination of one of the greatest love songs of all time, the Dolly Parton-written and Whitney Houston-defined "I Will Always Love You!" They'll drill down into Parton's relationship with her early mentor Porter Wagoner, the guy she wrote the song about, take a quick look at the development of the movie that featured the song, "The Bodyguard," and pepper in some wonderful anecdotes from the recording process, like when Whitney's mom Cissy told producer David Foster she was witnessing greatness as Whitney tracked it. Along the way, there's some patented TMI digressions into the Linda Ronstadt's sneaky status as the Forrest Gump of 20th-century music, whether or not Kevin Costner is Cool, Actually, and of course, the story of Parton and Houston's mutual admiration and friendship. Oh, and a guest appearance from enemy of the pod Saddam Hussein. Too Much Information: *We* will always love you.

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Jordan and Alex run with the devil through the sunny streets of Pasadena to tackle one of the all-time combinations of musical genius and lunkhead rawk: Van Halen's '1984'! For this transitional record -- when the band stormed the pop charts thanks to Eddie Van Halen's controversial use of synthesizers, and the last to feature iconic frontman "Diamond" David Lee Roth -- Alex will drag Jordan through discussions of everything from Eddie Van Halen's guitar tone to Roth's insane vocal antics to the models of cars connected to the record. They'll detour through the insane childhood crucible that forged Eddie's virtuosity, recount a panoply of incredible quotes from the band at their heyday, and get firsthand experiences from one of the kids in the "Hot for Teacher" music video. Did we mention Jordan doesn't like this band and Alex does? Thrill to the tension of hearing the Nice TMI Guy being driven slowly insane by Alex's use of a David Lee Roth Soundboard! Too Much Information: Might as well jump!

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Today your high maintenance hosts of hilarity turn their attention to When Harry Met Sally — the movie that gave false hope to a generation of love-lorn friend-zoned saps. (Like Jordan.) To debate and discuss one of the most famous "battle of the sexes" in pop culture history, the TMI gang welcomes podcasting royalty: Brooke Siffrinn & Aricia Skidmore-Williams! In addition to hosting Wondery’s Even the Rich, which just wrapped a hilarious season on Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg, the pair are also going strong with their spin-off series Even the Royals, which is a must for fans of The Crown...or messy drama of the obscenely wealthy. Together, the foursome discuss the chemistry (or lack thereof) between Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal, screenwriter Nora Ephron's surprising connection to the Watergate scandal, the strange saga of the infamous deli scene, and the long-lost original ending of this rom-com to end all rom-coms. 

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Jordan and Alex take you behind the velvet ropes and into the most decadent and debaucherous nightclub in history. You'll discover all the insane ways wannabes tried to get into the club (including a guy who got stuck in the air vent), the time a disgruntled reject tried to drive his car through the front door, and all the crazy stuff that celebrities got up to in the rubber-lined balcony or basement sex playground. In addition to a deep dive into the surprisingly radical history of disco, you'll learn about the club's maverick owners, Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager, who perpetrated one of the biggest tax frauds in history to throw one epic 33-month party. There's sex, drugs, fashion, horses, glitter, and too many tales for a normal-length episode. So take a bump and try to keep up. It's TMI — disco diva edition! 

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Heigl and Jordan take a trip to Wellsville to explore the baffling-yet-beloved staple of early Nickelodeon. You'll learn about the off-kilter sitcom's surprising origins as a Nick at Nite promo, and its strong ties to the downtown New York avant-garde arts scene of the late '80s. You'll also discover how the hell they got an insane number of shocking guest stars and learn about the adorable friendship that blossomed between Danny Tamberelli and Iggy Pop on the set. The TMI gang also crack some of the more enduring mysteries of the show — why did their mom have a plate in her head, why did Little Pete have nautical tattoos, and why did the boys share a single name in the first place? Sadly, they were unable to get the name of the song Little Pete overheard the garage band play in that one episode, or decipher the unintelligible lyrics of the theme song "Hey Sandy," by Polaris — but you can't win 'em all.

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Showing up fashionably late to the party, your punks of pedantry bring you a drunk tank-full of minutiae behind this timeless duet between reluctant lead-Pogue Shane MacGowan and Kirsty MacColl. The boys of the TMI Choir rummage through the two year (!!!) gestational period for the song to be written and recorded, through the tumultuous lives of the two who gave it voice, the repeated controversies over the song's language, and much much more. We wish you a belated happy holidays and the most merciful of new years.

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As the holiday season draws nearer, TMI's Misfits of Minutiae delve into the tale of Santa's favorite genetic mutant. In addition to learning all about the song and the production of the beloved 1964 Rankin/Bass TV special, they also explore Rudolph's truly tragic backstory, which is SO much sadder than all the other reindeer laughing and calling him names. You'll learn all about the controversy surrounding his red nose — and the gross reason why it would occur in real life — as well as the insane lengths producers went to get their puppets accurate, and the ridiculous amounts fans have paid for the surviving figurines. And, at long last, Jordan and Heigl will clear up the most enduring mystery involving The Island of Misfit Toys. 

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The power of TMI compels you to listen to this epic deep dive into the beloved (?) horror classic, which turns 50 years old in December. You'll learn about the many deaths and other on-set misfortunes which gave rise to the legend that the production was cursed, and you'll also discover all the ways that director William Friedkin was an IRL monster. And speaking of IRL, you'll hear all about the (allegedly) possessed kid who inspired the source material, the future serial killer who played a bit part in the film, and the insane lengths that voice actress Mercedes McCambridge went to summon the nightmare-inducing voice of Pazuzu the Demon. It's a beautiful day for an exorcism — just in time for the holidays!

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The TMI twosome show their gratitude to listeners with a heaping helping of true-life turkey day absurdity. Listen as Jordan forces Heigl to channel his inner looner (google it) and discuss the bizarre origin of this holiday tradition — which somehow involves the Titanic, burning the fingers of children, and elephant droppings. You'll hear all about the mayhem caused during early editions of the parade, when the gargantuan character balloons were released into the sky to collide with planes, buildings and high-tension wires. You'll also find out if you have what it takes to be a "balloon pilot" (spoiler: you probably don't) and learn all about the hilariously petty feud between rival TV networks battling over broadcasting rights. Along the way, the TMI team offer their trademark tangents on the Rockettes, mid-century minimalist composers, pumpkin pie, the JFK assassination, 'Miracle on 34th Street,' living statue performers, and the new and exciting things that can be done to your body after you die. 

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Jordan and Heigl sort through their trick-or-treat haul to bring you everything you ever wanted to know about your favorite confections. You'll find out which candy Frank Sinatra was buried with, how Milky Way nearly destroyed a family, and why Skittles spent millions of dollars on an advertisement that only one (1.) person ever got to see. You'll also learn why Snickers might just be the most controversial candy bar of all time, why Japan is obsessed with Kit Kat bars, and why the origin of gummy bears is super dark. Plus, you'll discover the answer to that age-old question: "How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop?"

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Jordan and Alex shake off the funk of 40,000 years to investigate Michael Jackson’s epochal hit “Thriller” and its equally iconic music video! While conceding it’s no “Monster Mash,” the pair delve deep into the track, from its original title “Starlight” to the tricks employed by the engineer who recorded it. They’ll also go long on the music video, from the former Playmate who starred in it — and got in some quality time with Jackson behind the scenes — to the Hollywood royalty who worked on it. They’ll also moonwalk their way through bits on Vincent Price’s monologue — and the time he showed Johnny Carson how to cook salmon in a dishwasher — and how Jackson’s album quite literally saved a flagging record industry. Too Much Information: No one’s gonna save you from the pod about to strike!

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Everybody relax, Jordan and Alex are here ... to talk about Alex's favorite movie of all time, John Carpenter's action-fantasy epic "Big Trouble in Little China." Listeners will trace the film's route from a Gold Rush-era cowboy fable to the film that convinced Carpenter to stop working with major studios after it flopped. But it's not all bad: Detours will be taken to the history of crime in San Francisco's Chinatown, the famous burlesque dancer from the city who cameos in the film, star Kurt Russell and Carpenter's heart-warming friendship and the controversy that greeted the film. Alex will recite approximately 40% of the film's lines and the phrase "hand-punched hairs" will be used referring to at least TWO separate costumes! Too Much Information: If we're not back in two hours after a digression on "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension..." call the president.

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Hey! Ho! The TMI guys go downtown to NYC's Bowery to examine the birth of punk and one of the greatest debuts in rock history. You'll learn the often-traumatic backstory of these four non-brothers and explore the equally horrific urine-streaked venues in which they played.  You'll also delve into the insanely low-resource recording sessions for their self-titled first album and revisit the Ramones' famous London gig that jump-started punk in the UK. Plus, Heigl makes a compelling argument that the '60s Laurel Canyon music scene was a CIA psy-op, and Jordan makes sure to highlight each of the Ramones MANY surprising Beatles connections. (There are a LOT.) 

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The TMI gang is back when their second installment exploring the work of everyone's favorite besuited eccentric. Today they're looking at Paul Reuben's gift to TV — the trippy Saturday morning show that made an entire generation yearn for a talking chair. You'll learn about the insane lengths that Reubens went to preserve the illusion that Pee Wee was a real person, the insane lengths he went to achieve his creative vision of the perfect Googie Playhouse, and the insane lengths he went to create an all-natural breakfast cereal for kids that looked like dog food. You'll also hear about the time Imelda Marcos signed his marriage license, and... *checks notes​* something about a porn theater.

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Jordan and Heigl kick off the first in their two-part tribute to Paul Reubens and his beloved besuited character by examining his early years on the LA comedy scene and 1985 big screen breakthrough. You'll learn about the strange blend of influences that went into this offbeat comic creation, his surprising debut on The Dating Game, Reubens' early brushes with children's TV greatness, his rivalry with SNL, his friendship (and falling out) with Phil Hartman, the absurd price someone once paid for one of those famous bikes, and how we almost got a Pollyanna remake starring Pee Wee. Along the way, the TMI guys also somehow touch on Greek mythology, the murderous past of boxing promoter Don King, the wit and wisdom of Tom Waits, Michael Caine's fear of blinking, The Goonies star-studded set, Batman and....*shudder* Large Marge. 

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As the record-breaking album turns 25 — and Ms. Hill announces an upcoming anniversary tour — Alex and Jordan educate you on The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. You'll learn all about the intense relationship drama that went into its creation, the controversy surrounding the proper credit for the album's songs, and how the stress of making and then living up to the masterpiece ultimately led Hill to retreat from public life. Plus, they also do a lengthy sidebar on the surprising genesis of "Killing Me Softly With His Song," and a rundown of celebrities who (reportedly) don't let non-famous people look them in the eye.

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As Jordan reveals his true colors as an ardent aughts pop stan, the TMI gang celebrates Ms. Britney Jean Spears. While revisiting her much-maligned feature film debut — written by Shonda Rhimes!? — they somehow manage to touch on the work of Frank Zappa, the origin of the word "yikes," the specifics of the Lunchables product line, and MTV's aborted plans for a musical version of Alice in Wonderland featuring a who's who of TRL-era pop stars. (Plus, they fantasy-cast other epic road movies with Britney and her '02-era associates.) You'll learn about the surprising origins of the Crossroads script, the admirably hands-on role Britney had while working on the plot; her adorably humble culinary demands during the shoot, and the surprising role that Robert De Niro had in rounding out the cast. 

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Jordan and Alex commemorate the recent loss of Robbie Robertson by taking a load off, Fanny, and revisiting The Band's iconic 1968 debut, 'Music from Big Pink.' They trace the group's path from Canadian bar-band hellraisers to woodsy Woodstock balladeers and the album that launched 1,000 Americana bands. Also featuring patented TMI detours that include Alex getting way too excited about Rick Danko's use of the fretless bass and a meditation on the very nature of what collaborative music making means in a capitalist society that demands having the least amount of people on the paperwork. And hey, why not let Alex get a little too angry at a recently deceased icon whose creative output he'd never be able to surpass if he worked ten lifetimes...as a treat? Also, Jordan brings up the Beach Boys at least twice! It's Too Much Information: Tears of Rage edition!

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Get ready for an all-new iteration on the classic Too Much Information: Crystal TMI™!  No, just kidding, it's a game we stole from Tim Heidecker called Stump the Buff, in which a series of increasingly byzantine trivia questions in the buff's chosen field threaten to, well, stump them. And your two hosts couldn't have a more cognitively-dissonant spread for you: Heigl's answering questions about god's chosen movie genre, horror; Jordan's going HAM on his beloved Beatles. Along the way there will be the patented digressions spurred by each question, and Alex will slightly infuriate Jordan with his off-the-cuff question selection. It's Too Much Information: Stump the Buff: BLOOD AND BEATLES!

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Your two bio-exorcists of big-ticket trivia dive into one of the most idiosyncratic movies of all time. This early Tim Burton joint gave Jordan nightmare as a kid, so they brought in a guest expert — the third member of the TMI triumvirate, beloved producer Mykal Alder June! You’ll learn all about the much darker original script, the perils of building a bridge in Vermont for the film, the gross look they landed on for the titular character and an update on its long-delayed sequel. 

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Our Mexican Pizzas of minutiae make a run for the border this week, covering the history of the perennial late night fast food option, Taco Bell. From its origins in unabashed caucasian theft, the hilarious corporate pettiness that has kept the chain running for decades, the life and legacy of America's favorite ad campaign-affiliated Chihuahua, just where the hell Baja Blast came from (spoiler: not Baja, that's for damn sure), Alex and Jordan serve us a Deluxe Cravings Box of facts. Listen Más, my friends!

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Barbie Fever has swept TMI thanks to Greta Gerwig's upcoming film, and Jordan forces Alex to discuss the making of one of the most polarizing hits of the '90s. You'll learn all about the doll's surprisingly scandalous backstory in the German red-light district, the band Aqua’s confounding fixation on Rick Astley, and the lengthy lawsuit that resulted from the hit song, and why it won't appear in the new movie. Alex's hatred of "Barbie Girl" leads to an expansive sidebar on the history of pop music as a method of torture, while Alex ponders his revenge on Jordan for making him talk about this song in the first place. It's a wild and shockingly dark journey through the world of Europop, feminism, toy manufacturing and the War on Terror — so let's go party! 

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With a new Indiana Jones movie allegedly out, Alex and Jordan prepare to likewise desecrate a sacred artifact in the spirit of scholarship and/or greed: 'Raiders of the Lost Ark'! They'll leave no stone — or idol — unturned as they comb through the minutiae of the film's genesis in a sandcastle-building session between Steven Spielberg and George Lucas, marvel at the myriad ways in which Harrison Ford could have been killed while performing most of his own stunts, and reveal just how they exploded those Nazis' heads so good. They'll also uncover the species of animal Indy's whip is made from, investigate how many snakes is too many snakes, and laugh about the time Karen Allen punched Harrison Ford in the face. Too Much Information: It ain't the podcasts, honey, it's the mileage.

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Jordan and Alex delve into the coming-of-age classic that dares to ask, "Do you guys wanna see a dead body?" You'll learn about the deeply autobiographical Stephen King short story that spawned the script, discover which of the four leads had sex for the first time on the set, and find out which star married a 'Stand By Me' superfan. You'll also hear how River Phoenix's experiences in a cult informed his performance, how the production team pulled off all the grossness with the leeches, corpses and pie eating contests, and all about the weird role Michael Jackson nearly played in the film's soundtrack. Alex shares his theory that Stand By Me was just a dry run for Stephen King's 'It,' and Jordan shares the one line in the movie he can't hear without sobbing. 

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Alex and Jordan take a wide-ranging look at the life and deeply troubled legacy of '90s television's answer to PT Barnum — and how he made the jump from Cincinnati Mayor to giving a platform to individuals who fetishize Spam and date livestock. (Hint: it involves at least one very public sex scandal.) You'll learn about his Forrest Gump-ish early days at the center of a truly bizarre number of historical events and discover how his first-hand encounters with the London Blitz, RFK's assassination and the 1968 Democratic National Convention riots helped plant the seeds for his trademark televisual mayhem. In addition to covering the rise and fall of his show — and all the controversies and even murders it caused — the TMI guys touch on ghost ships, a woman married to the Eiffel Tower, Oprah, Austin Powers and a 70-pound baby.

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Jordan and Alex cruise through the making of a comedy classic that salutes the uniquely American phenomenon of taking a long, arduous road trip to a place that sucks. They'll explore the film's genesis as a John Hughes-penned short story in National Lampoon Magazine all the way up through the multi-million-dollar movie franchise it spawned — including some questionable sequels that mercifully went unproduced. You'll learn all about the epic cross-country shoot that nearly killed several members of the cast and learn how the Griswold's hideous car killed off the station wagon. Plus, you'll hear all sorts of tales of Chevy Chase behaving badly. So give a listen: you'll have so much f-cking fun, you'll need plastic surgery to remove your goddamn smiles!

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Alex and Jordan throw on their skinny jeans, vintage Ts and leather jackets to discuss one of the turn-of-the-century masterpieces of modern rock and roll — a dirtbag opus that taught us that rich kids could, with the right tunes and production, convincingly cosplay as legitimate scuzzbags. You'll learn about the band's privileged beginnings among the upper Manhattan elite (Sean Lennon introduced them at a Swiss prep school!) and then head downtown to the gritty recording sessions for "Last Nite" and "Someday" done in the basement of a methadone clinic. In addition to lots of drugs, sex and fist-fights — plus a surprisingly comprehensive overview of all the artists who've ripped off Tom Petty — you'll get a fascinating overview of the Meet Me in the Bathroom-era indie-rock scene of the early '00s — NYC's last gasp of punk. 

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Jordan and Alex take a trip to Bluffington to pay tribute to everyone's favorite sweater-vest clad diarist. You'll learn all about the real-life love story behind Doug Funnie and Patti Mayonnaise, the behind-the-scenes drama stemming from the show’s transition from Nick to the House of Mouse, and the controversies that continue to rage concerning Skeeter Valentine's blue skin tone. Plus you'll discover how the creation of Doug was fueled by endless margaritas and a passion for the Peanuts gang, and all the influences that went into the greatest rock band of our time — The Beets! 

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Jordan and Alex put the podcast in the basket to talk about one of the all-time masterpieces of horror cinema. Join your well-scrubbed, hustling hosts as they debunk the oft-repeated theory that Anthony Hopkins doesn't blink during this film, celebrate the determination Jodie Foster brought to campaigning for her role, and marvel at all the creepy touches that make the film so great, from its sound design to the Guy Who Handled the Moths. They'll also explore its checkered legacy in the trans community and the mostly unfortunate series of cash-in sequels that followed. Even under threat of getting the hose again, Alex is unable to stop doing Hannibal Lecter lines in a Sean Connery voice after learning Connery was initially considered for the role!  Too Much Information: You will tell us when the pods stop casting, won't you, Clarice?

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Jordan and Alex discuss one of the best-selling singles of all time. It's a song that boasts more top tier talent than perhaps any other. It's also a song that brings new meaning to the phrase: “Well, it’s the thought that counts..." They'll give you the backstory and behind the scenes drama of that one night in January 1985 when 40-something of the biggest stars in music crammed into a single studio, checked their egos at the door and worked through the night to record a sub-part tune by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie that raised some $80 million for African famine relief. You'll find out why a terrified Michael Jackson was reduced to curling up in the fetal position in the bathroom, why mega-talents like Prince and Madonna blew off the session, and why the proceedings were nearly torpedoed by Cyndi Lauper's earrings and a buffet. You'll also learn about Bob Dylan's intense stage fright, the surprising reason why Huey Lewis was given a solo when Smokey Robinson was NOT — plus all the reasons why Ray Charles and Bruce Springsteen were the MVPs of the session. 

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Jordan and Alex explore the beloved early Aughts comedy that taught a generation important facial expressions like Blue Steel and Magnum, dared to ask the question “But why male models?”and showed us that sometimes all you need to sort through important issues is an orange mocha Frappuccino. You'll learn all about the VH1 sketch that birthed the character of Zoolander, how Ben Stiller got David Bowie to judge the "walk off," and the long-lost original ending to the film — which was kind of a downer! You'll also discover which '90s pop punk band nearly provided the soundtrack to the gasoline fight, which legendary American author sued the production for plagiarism, and which controversial actor who nearly played the villainous Mugatu. So take a listen — it's so hot right now. 

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Alex and Jordan salute the 25th anniversary of the biggest, dumbest, most ass-kickin'-est '90s action blockbuster. It's a film that taught us all that oil rig workers can (with the right montage) make successful astronauts, the leathery glam Muppets in Aerosmith still had hits in 'em, and there's no problem that Uncle Sam can't blow up real good. They'll get into all the messy reasons why Bruce Willis was forced to do this movie, why Ben Affleck was forced to get new teeth, and Michael Bay forced NASA to let the production sit in on a shuttle launch. You'll also learn about how Armageddon and less-good end-of-days asteroid movie Deep Impact caused an inter-studio feud, the film's soundtrack helped heal a rift between Liv Tyler and her Aerosmith front man father, the time Ben Affleck nearly died in a space suit, and all the ways that humanity would be screwed if a big rock was headed our way in real life. Hit play and enjoy! Trust us, you don't want to miss a thing. 

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Jordan and Alex move the pod to an an-up-and-coming Chicago neighborhood—ah, it's already been gentrified. Well, they'll self-soothe by immersing themselves in a beloved chronicle of a similarly bygone era, Liz Phair's "Exile in Guyville!" From a quick history of the Chicago indie scene that birthed the record, to the myriad of odd sonic tricks that make up its production, to the kinda-weird lengths Phair went to in order to tweak the Rolling Stones' "Exile on Main Street," not a single cobblestone of Guyville remains unturned. They'll also tackle the backlash Phair faced once her record broke big, the *other* backlash she faced a decade later later when she pivoted her sound, and make Jordan uncomfortable with some of Phair's patented sexually explicit lyrics! Too Much Information: A dive deeper than Chicago deep-dish!

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Jordan and Alex scale their own personal Cliffs of Insanity to take listeners deeper into the warm heart of "The Princess Bride" than ever before! They round up the (practically) inconceivable list of directors who tried and failed to adapt the beloved novel, take a quick sidebar into pirate code, and demystify some of the stories about Andre the Giant's youth ... and drinking habits. They'll also shed light on the marvelous sword fight between Westley and Inigo, and explore the deep personal motivation Mandy Patinkin brought to his role as Inigo. Too Much Information: Never try to match wits with a podcaster!

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The warm smell of pod-itas rises up through the air as Jordan and Alex tackle one of the biggest songs of the 20th century from one of the biggest punching bags of all time: The Eagles' "Hotel California!" They're prisoners here of their own device as they delve into why, exactly, the Eagles are so hated (spoiler alert: it's mostly Don Henley), wax rhapsodic about Joe Walsh and dissect the operatic dissolution of the band. An already-weakened-by-a-cold Alex is taken to his limit by quotes from lead-Eagles Glenn Frey and Henley as no stone is left unturned parsing the song's lyrics, including their applications to foreign economic policy and their possible bearing on friend of the pod Satan! Also a brief rundown of most of the people Henley has sued, the IRL location of the Hotel California and naturally some great Joe Walsh debauchery stories. Too Much Information: Some pod to remember, some pod to forget.

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Let's take a journey to the Neighborhood of Too Much Information! Jordan and Alex go  deep on the secular saint known as Fred Rogers, tracing his early years as a bullied rich kid to his ascent to the benevolent king of children's television. You'll learn about his oddly beautiful obsession with his weight, the time he danced around the set with a sex doll, the hidden message behind his trademark cardigans, and his under-appreciated musical brilliance. You'll also learn how he single-handedly saved PBS, paved the way for Netflix, and gave early breaks to Michael Keaton and 'Day of the Dead' horror icon George Romero. And, in a series first, you'll hear how Fred's unconditional love and kindness turns the TMI guys into weepy children. Get ready for 'Too Much Information — Oops, All Sobs!' edition.

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Jordan and Alex hurtle their bodies off the top of a keyboard and microphone with no safety precautions to bring you an in-depth discussion of 1998's classic 'Rush Hour'! Podcast stunt coordinators were horrified at the lengths Alex goes to in his Jackie Chan fandom, unpacking Chan's legacy as one of the world's singular entertainers, the film's role in Hollywood's Nineties' dalliance with the Hong Kong martial-arts/action-film industry, and the difficulties Jackie had on his first English-language feature. Along the way, Jordan and Alex will recount the first meeting between Jackie and co-star Chris Tucker that led to one of the film's most famous lines, recount a brief litany of Chan's most horrific injuries, and marvel at the fact that he apparently once catered one of his own films — while also working as the gaffer and composing the theme song! It's Too Much Information: Rumble in the Pod!

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Jordan and Alex celebrate their 100th episode (and their friendship) by honoring the most famous best buds in entertainment — Matt Damon and Ben Affleck.  They'll talk about their initial bond as kids in Boston, the complex personal histories that went into the movie's script, and their long road to the Oscars. They'll also explore the early version of the film that was intended to be a thriller, another draft where everyone died, still another with a long-lost sex scene between Will and Sean, and the early casting that featured the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt. An in-depth psychological exploration of Ben Affleck's existential crisis is offset by tons of tales of Robin Williams at his hilarious best, and they'll probe the boys' passionate relationship with the Red Sox. 

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Here's the story of a man named Brady, a lovely lady, six adorable kids, and the wild, surprisingly raunchy way that they became The Brady Bunch. Jordan and Heigl dive into their craziest episode yet, outlining all the weird pseudo-incestural relationships between the kids in the cast (including Barry Williams' famous date with his TV mom), the real-life drama between two of the Brady sisters, and the all the reasons why Mike Brady was such a pain in the ass that the show’s creator planned to kill him off. They'll also get into all the ways the actors nearly died during the show, the scene that Barry Williams filmed while stoned (as well as a supposedly "banned" scene), the extremely dark (and extremely short-lived) Brady Bunch spinoff series in the '90s, the curse of Cousin Oliver, the time the Brady mom got an STD from a New York City Mayor, and the story behind those ridiculous perms. Get ready for sex, drugs and a little rock 'n' roll — Brady style. 

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Jordan and Alex spend most of their lives living in a podcast paradise this week going deep on Stevie Wonder's magnum opus ‘Songs in the Key of Life’! They'll explore the chaos that was Stevie's work process at the time, including 3:30 a.m. call times for bassists and guitarists sleeping in the studio, scour the insane guest roster of the sessions for hidden gems (Alice Coltrane? Frank Zappa?) and run down the hallmarks of Stevie's keyboard sound. Along the way they'll marvel at the scope of Stevie's record-breaking contract with Motown, the still-unheard songs from the era he's got in the vault, and run down the expenditures for the premiere party for the album. (How much does a bespoke cowboy outfit cost, anyway?) Too Much Information: Pod's in Need of Pod Today.

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Jordan and Alex do a little fandango, as a treat,  as they dive into the stygian depths and falsetto highs of Queen's immortal hit "Bohemian Rhapsody!" Thunderbolts and lightning are the least of their worries as they try to pronounce "Zoroastrian" to get to the bottom of Freddie Mercury's lyrics, dive deep into the literal pieces of trash that make up Brian May's iconic guitar sound and ponder a timeline in which Guns N' Roses soundtracked *that* scene in 'Wayne's World'! Along the way they'll get into the acoustic phenomena behind Freddie Mercury's voice, find out exactly how many vocal overdubs make up "Bohemian Rhapsody," and explore how the band sort-of pioneered the music video as an art form out of laziness! Too Much Information: Beelzebub has a podcast put aside for you!

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Jordan and Alex don their best Juicy Couture sweatsuits for a deep dive into one of the most iconic Aughties comedies of all time: 'Mean Girls'! They try to make fetch happen by going long on the author of the source material's gripe with the film's writer, Tina Fey, drill down into the difficult process of assembling the sterling cast, and figure out exactly how they made a movie written by a New Yorker and shot in Canada feel like a John Hughes comedy set in Illinois.  They'll also explore the film's very explicit connection to 'Heathers,' what went into the wardrobe and provide a lengthy update on the film's long-stalled sequel. Too Much Information: You CAN sit with us.

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Your VJs of very granular facts are back with behind-the-scenes stories from MTV's beloved countdown extravaganza. You'll hear all about the unholy bromance between Carson Daly and Kid Rock, the time he took the Backstreet Boys to their very first strip club, and the painfully awkward interview between him and Prince. Jordan and Heigl also discuss the moment when the BSB vs. NSYNC battle almost turned deadly on the air (and give their picks for the ultimate boy band), reminisce about the time Fred Durst blew up a boat, revel in Eminem's TRL-related beef with Mark Wahlberg, chuckle at the time Tom Green's "Bum Bum Song" caused a minor production crisis, and marvel at the crazy lengths fans went to get themselves inside MTV's Times Square studios. They'll also explore the complex pop cultural/technological convergence that made TRL the original example of social media, and also explain how these shifting trends ultimately doomed the show. And, of course, they'll get into the Mariah Carey ice cream incident. 

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Jordan and Alex crack open their sarcophagi for a deep-dive into one of the best popcorn flicks of the last century: The Mummy! THRILL as they trace the film's torturous development path through some of the biggest horror names of the era! CHILL as they recount the trials the cast faced from the climate, animals AND people of the remote filming location! GASP at Arnold Vosloo's body-shaving routine to play the titular character! JOIN the Brendan Fraserssance! It's Mummuary on Too Much Information!

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Jordan and Alex lock themselves into a shack with just a chess computer, a bottle of J&B and a shape-shifting cosmic horror for company in this week's Too Much Information on John Carpenter's 1982 classic "The Thing!" They'll delve into the hows and whys the film got made with the writer of "The Bad News Bears," give the SFX wunderkind responsible for the film's monsters his roses, and ponder why Ennio Morricone's film scoring contracts specify his contributions down to the minute.  Listeners will also be privy the boozy secret ritual of the bar the cast and crew drank at in Hyder, Alaska and learn the one aspect of this film's pre-production that Carpenter vowed to never do again. Whatever's in there, it's weird and it's pissed off: It's Too Much Information!

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What do Atari, Pixar, pizza, beer and rats have in common? Jordan and Alex dive into a suspiciously sticky ball-pit under the uncanny valley gaze of an animatronic rat to go deep on everyone's favorite source of cherished childhood memories and/or trauma: Chuck E. Cheese! They'll discover the roots the chain shares with the iconic video game company behind "Pong," get the heart of the vicious feud between Chuck and his closest competitor, and shine a light on the animatronics wunderkind and vexed utopian who crafted the indelible animatronic band whose songs live on in all our hearts. Also, there will be pizza. And fistfights! Alex won't stop calling the rat "Charles!" Jordan is baffled by all of this! So take a listen to where a kid can be a kid: Too Much Information.

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Jordan and Alex revisit the beloved 1986 masterwork that blended South African sounds with American dance pop — and became one of the most controversial albums of the decade. Paul Simon's unsanctioned trip to Johannesburg in the era of Apartheid violated a UN boycott, kicking off an international firestorm that nearly cost Simon his life. (Until E Street Band guitarist Stevie Van Zandt intervened...) They'll discuss the complex cultural questions surrounding the creation of this album, and also delve into history of these fascinating rhythms and melodies in South Africa. Plus, you'll learn how the album never would have come together without SNL producer Lorne Michaels, discover the dinner party faux-pas that inspired "You Can Call Me Al,' and hear why "Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes" was a last minute addition to the tracklist.

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You've never had a friend like the TMI guys, who dove deep into the making of this 1992 Disney animated classic. You'll get all the behind-the-scenes stories of Robin Williams' hilariously non-family friendly Genie dialogue, learn the truth behind his long-running feud with Disney, and discover how his role in the movie changed the course of animation forever. You'll also hear how the plot differs from the Aladdin story from antiquity, learn why the film caused some controversy upon its release, get to the bottom of the supposed hidden sex joke, and discover why "A Whole New World" is the greatest Disney song of all time. 

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With the global success of 'Wednesday' on Netflix, Alex and Jordan are exploring the history of everyone's favorite creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky family — from its humble beginnings as a New Yorker cartoon to an endearingly weird '60s sitcom to the beloved '90s movies. You'll learn about the Addams Family's eccentric creator who had a secret affair with Jackie Kennedy, the show's mini-rivalry with 'The Munsters,' and the time director Barry Sonnenfeld built a pillow fort to hide from nightmare producer Scott Rudin. There's also the mystery of Lurch's missing bodily remains, the time Cher almost got cast as Morticia, and the story behind that banger of a theme song. 

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In the final installment of their TMI Titanic Trilogy, Jordan and Alex dive into the truly insane stories behind the many repeated sinkings of James Cameron’s gargantuan Titanic set — an experience that nearly killed Kate Winslet many times over and cost the sanity of the crew. They’ll also get into the true-life stories of heroism on the real Titanic, bust some myths about the lifeboats, and tackle the most enduring controversy associated with the Titanic production: could Jack have fit on that floating piece of wood paneling along with Rose? Perhaps most importantly, they’ll explain how Celine Dion’s iconic ballad “My Heart Will Go On” very nearly was cut from the film. 

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Wanna go to a real party? Jordan and Alex continue their trilogy diving deep (ha!) into the making of James Cameron’s epic. This episode explores how he built a 775-foot sinkable replica of the ship — the largest film set in the world — and the insane lengths he went to get it exactly as the original. Focusing on the first VHS of the original film’s release, the TMI guys will discuss the iconic lines that were improvised, the adorable awkwardness of the “Draw me like one of your French girls” scene, the mind-breaking camera tricks required to film the ship’s departure — and the finer points of turn-of-the century car sex. 

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Jordan and Alex present their first TMI trilogy exploring the making of James Cameron's disaster epic. Part one covers the extensive pre-production that saw Cameron spend a month on the bottom of the ocean filming the wreck of the REAL Titanic, work overtime to convince Leonardo DiCaprio to sign on, and convince 20th Century Fox to shell out over $100 million on a movie that didn't even have a script. You'll hear about the real life figures who inspired Jack and Rose, the romantic subplot that wound up on the cutting room floor, the crazy lengths Kate Winslet went to secure her role — and the time a disgruntled caterer spiked the chowder at the on-set lunch table with PCP, resulting in Cameron and half the crew getting high as hell and hallucinating. 

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Alex and Jordan wrap up their holiday extravaganza — and 2022 in general! — with a salute to most hilariously foul of all Christmas movies. They’ll talk about the record-breaking number of obscenities, the surprising involvement of the Coen Brothers, the behind-the-scenes legal battles it took to get the film to the big screen, and Billy Bob Thornton’s heroic drinking during the shoot — plus some harrowing tales of real life bad Santas. (Like, really bad.) 

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Jordan and Alex welcome special guest Mo Rocca to discuss his time writing for the beloved PBS classic about a highly literate little dog with a big imagination. You'll learn about the real-life Jack Russell who inspired the titular character, the Herculean efforts that went into costuming this show, the painstaking process of rewriting classic literature for a dog, and the infuriating reasons why this Peabody-winning show was canceled at the top of its game. 

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The TMI gang pay tribute to one of Heigl’s favorite movies as the Cher-led romantic black comedy turns 35! You’ll learn about the rough-and-tumble Bronx playwright who penned the script, the genesis of the infamous “Snap out of it!” line, the fistfight that nearly broke out as they filmed the climactic scene — and a whole lot of Nic Cage facts. You’ll also discover why everyone in the cast thought this movie would bomb, the tension between the two romantic leads, and the tragic, Springsteen-esque story of the real-life bakery at the heart of the film. 

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Let Jordan and Alex be your filthy animals of facts on this exploration of what might possibly be the most violent movie in the holiday canon. They'll explain the feud with a comedy legend that helped set this production in motion, and also the insanity of Macaulay Culkin's literal rags-to-riches family drama — plus the time Joe Pesci bit him on the set, quite literally scarring him for life. You'll also learn which role Chris Farley nearly played, why John Candy was pissed at the production, all the ways they pulled off those brutal booby tracks, and what a doctor says those traps would do to you in real life.

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Jordan and Alex explore the creation of this idiosyncratic holiday classic, from the beat poet who wrote the original book, to the influence it had on the beloved TV mainstay The Wonder Years. You’ll also learn how a vintage soda ad inspired the famous leg lamp (a.k.a. the major award), how the director went from a Christmas-themed slasher to a raunchy teen sex comedy to this, and how they got Flick’s tongue stuck to that pole. 

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The TMI Team take a look at what Jordan calls “the best Christmas song of the 20th century” and what Heigl calls “the evil twin of ‘Monster Mash.’” (You can make up your own mind about who’s right.) You’ll hear about the traumatizing circumstances of Carey’s early life that lends a poignancy to this holiday party anthem, and the ongoing battle over the songwriting credits. They’ll explain the music theory of why it’s so damn catchy and so damn Christmas-y, the many sales records it holds, and why it makes goats produce more milk than the Chipmunks' Christmas song. (Long story.)

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There's more of gravy than the grave about Jordan and Alex as they forge ahead with their holiday programming by tackling the beloved 'Muppet Christmas Carol,' the first film released by Jim Henson Production following his tragic death. They'll continue to explore star Michael Caine's complicated relationship with blinking, reveal how Jim Henson gave his Kermit successor Steve Whitmire his blessing in a dream, and delve into why this was an especially poignant project for Muppets songwriter Paul Williams. Along the way, they'll detour into the behind-the-scenes magic that makes a Muppet movie and explore why enemy of the pod Jeffrey Katzenberg ensured a crucial musical number remained missing from the film's digital releases for years. Wherever you find love it feels like Christmas — and this episode has it in spades.

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Jordan and Alex’s hearts grow three sizes as they explore the making of the classic 1966 animated holiday special. You’ll learn about the truly devastating personal story that inspired the original book, the crappy car rental that influenced the Grinch’s green color, the surprising impact of WWII on getting the special green-lit, the drama over the Grinch’s singing voice, the little-known sequel specials — and the CORRECT way to pronounce “Seuss.” (Yes, we’ve all been saying it wrong.) 

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Jordan and Alex observe Black Friday by delving into the agony and the ecstasy of one of the greatest albums of the 21st century. They'll explain the relationship drama and emotional turmoil that influenced the record, explore the classic '60s songs that inspired its distinctive sound, and introduce the band of Brooklyn soul giants who gave it the groove. They'll also explain the argument that led Amy to cover the Zutons song “Valerie,” the NYC stroll that inspired "Rehab," and how Mark Ronson got Amy Winehouse to overcome her unholy hatred of strings for "Love Is a Losing Game."

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You ever pod with the devil in the pale moonlight? Alex puts Jordan through the Bat-wringer in a Bat-tastic exploration of "Batman: The Animated Series," in tribute to the recently deceased voice of the Dark Knight, Kevin Conroy. They'll Bat-detour through the show's origins in a show about Looney Tune babies, the secrets behind the series' beautiful aesthetics, how Mozart informed Mark Hamill's positively terrifying performance as the Joker, and the woman behind the Bat-music, Shirley Walker. They are the vengeance, they are the night, they are ... Too Much Information.

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It's Double Trouble Day on TMI as Jordan and Alex give you the behind-the-scenes lowdown on the beloved remake of the Disney classic. They'll discuss the future superstars who duked it out with Lindsay Lohan for the lead role (or rather, roles), the crazy twin-centric coincidence involving the actress playing Chessy, and the wild real-life reunions of long-lost twin siblings. They'll also explain the cutting-edge camera tricks employed to turn one Lilo into two, how they came up with that elaborate secret handshake, and all subtle ways the remake paid tribute to the original — plus, the time the author of the original children's book was chased down by the Nazi SS!

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Alex and Jordan take you inside the pioneering reality series, which provided our favorite aughts-era celebrities with the opportunity to take us inside their homes — or, in some cases, rent fake homes and lie to us. You'll discover who was honest and who balled out for the sake of the show as the TMI gang reflects on the most truly ridiculous celebrity abodes. You'll also learn about all the ways this show nearly never got made, hear the surprisingly heartfelt story at the center of Mariah Carey's famous appearance, and get the whole backstory on Redman's infamous episode — plus they'll reveal the first artist to describe their bedroom as "where the magic happens." 

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Jordan and Alex pay tribute to the most concentrated dose of coming-of-age TV nostalgia this side of The Wonder Years. They’ll pore through Judd Apatow and Paul Feig’s real life teenage traumas that inspired the most iconic scenes and the interpersonal ups and downs in the cast of future film stars. (Spoiler: James Franco was kind of a pill and Linda Cardellini was the best...but y'all knew this.) They’ll also explore the once-in-a-generation convergence of talent that made this show unforgettable, and the once-in-a-blue-moon convergence of poor network decisions that ultimately doomed it to One Season Wonder status. You’ll learn all about all the ways the show broke network sitcom convention, the insane attention to detail that went into the production, and the fate of the characters had the show continued for another season. 

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Jordan and Alex pod it off there, boss, to talk about one of the most iconic films of the 20th century. They delve into the life of the sailor-turned-failed-safecracker who wrote the novel the film is based on, travel down the winding road of Florida court records to explore the sad fate of the real-life Luke, and perhaps most importantly, determine exactly how many eggs Paul Newman ate in that iconic scene. They'll also uncover Newman's preferred salad recipe from the era and get to the root of the shouting match he had with the film's director directly before shooting a key scene. You won't find any failure to communicate here, just a lot of George Kennedy impressions and a whole host of reasons to fall back in love with the film (and Newman).

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The two taxmen of trivia are back to explore side two of the Fab Four’s 1966 masterwork. They go track by track to discuss the surprising song that inspired “Good Day Sunshine,” why Paul McCartney wrote “For No One” in the toilet after a fight with his girlfriend, the real-life NYC doc who gets name-checked in “Doctor Robert,” and which future George Harrison classic got rejected during the sessions. You’ll also learn how the album was nearly recorded at a landmark Memphis recording studio and named after a groan-worthy Rolling Stones pun.

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The Lennon-McCartney of trivia revisit the Fabs' game-changing 1966 record, which also happens to be Jordan’s favorite record of all time. Listen as Alex tries and fails to stop him from having a full-on attack of Beatlemania over the course of this two-part episode. You’ll discover how John Lennon was nearly electrocuted during sessions for “Yellow Submarine,” why Paul McCartney’s composition teacher didn’t think “Eleanor Rigby” was any good, how a broken sitar string changed the course of rock history, and why the solo on “Taxman” nearly caused an inter-band incident. You’ll also learn why a proposed western movie starring the Beatles almost derailed the sessions, hear how George Harrison sucks at coming up with song times — and get the insane story of two teen girls who hired a helicopter to buzz The Beatles’ rental house. 

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Jordan and Alex discuss a Disney Halloween classic much beloved by their fellow Millennials. It’s a tale chock full of rotted pumpkins, bad Boston accents, an army of black cats, and even LSD. You’ll learn about all of the weird ties this movie has to the film Titanic and the show Friends, in addition to Sarah Jessica Parker’s ancestral ties to the Salem Witch Trials. You’ll also discover why Kathy Najimy was initially afraid to appear in the movie, why the producers led Disney exec Jeffrey Katzenberg through a homemade elementary school-style haunted house, why actor Doug Jones had to walk around with real moths in his mouth, and why this film broke Steven Spielberg’s heart. Plus, Massachusetts-native Jordan will get to the bottom of why everyone in New England says “wicked” — an insane explanation that, incredibly, involves The Wizard of Oz.

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Alex and Jordan set the controls for the heart of the Scholastic Book Fair with a deep-dive on the world-conquering, multi-medium-spanning success of R.L. Stine's Goosebumps! They'll explore literally every job Stine had as a struggling writer before making it big, a brief history of evil ventriloquist dummies and horror icon George A. Romero's sadly unrealized attempt to make a feature film out of the series' first book. Along the way, they'll get way too granular about the work that went into those iconic book covers and the Canadian-produced children's horror-TV rivalry of "Goosebumps" vs. "Are You Afraid of the Dark!" Alex won't stop calling Stine "Robert Louis Stinevinson:" Listener beware, you're in for a scare!

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Jordan and Alex explore the creation of everyone’s favorite coming-of-age psycho-horror New Wave time-travel flick — with rabbits. Listen to learn all the ways rookie director Richard Kelly beat the hellish odds to make his incredibly ambitious feature film debut, why Jason Schwartzman was very nearly the title character, and how this movie quite literally couldn’t have happened without Drew Barrymore, the true MVP of the production. You’ll also find out what song was supposed to be used for the Sparkle Motion dance sequence, why Gary Jules’ haunting “Mad World” cover was a last-minute addition, and why Donnie Darko is real-life neighbors with Ferris Bueller. Plus, the TMI Boys make a valiant effort to parse apart the many theories about the true meaning of this unexplainable movie.

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Jordan and Alex are discussing perhaps the most twisted example of the ‘90s teen movie boom — a film about deception, seduction, borderline incest and cocaine stuffed in a crucifix. Listen and learn about how Ryan Phillipe threw up on the set, how they got Reese Witherspoon drunk to get her to sign on, and why Katie Holmes got the boot from the cast. You’ll also hear how a pornographic actress created a stir on the set, how Selma Blair prepped for that famous kissing scene with Sarah Michell Gellar, and why Ross Gellar from ‘Friends’ is partially responsible for making this all happen. Plus, they’ll talk about all of the ill-fated attempts to bring the story to television, and why the fake cocaine on the set gave SMG an allergic reaction.

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Alex and Jordan kick off TMI’s Halloween Spooktacular month with a look back at the Nickelodeon show that taught a generation of kids how to fear. They’ll discuss the roster of pre-fame child actors who populated the show, creator D.J. MacHale's burning hatred of both the Midnight Society, Nickelodeon AND Canadian television, and the classic literature that helped inspire some of the plots. They’ll also delve into the show’s groundbreaking representation and diversity, the complex psychology of the scares, and what exactly was in that magic dust they’d throw into the campfire. 

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Jordan and Heigl dive into this beloved ‘80s adventure classic — and you don’t have to do the Truffle Shuffle to listen! They’ll tell you all about Spielberg’s secret role as unofficial co-director, the authentic blood and skulls used for props, and the real-life shipwreck that inspired the legend of One-Eyed Willy — plus Sloth’s nightmarish makeup prosthetics that nearly electrocuted him. They’ll also explain the crazy connections between The Goonies, Gremlins and Back to the Future, the onset feud between Corey Feldman and Martha Plimpton, the prank war between the Fratelli brothers, the time Michael Jackson visited the set (it got weird), and the lost subplot involving escaped gorillas. You’ll also learn how a bout of chickenpox almost cheated us out of Jeff Cohen’s hilarious performance as Chunk, how the production crew built — and destroyed — a full-sized pirate ship, and how Alice Cooper crashed the epic cast party.

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Alex and Jordan explore the psychotic lengths Donald Fagan and Walter Becker went to create their ’77 yacht rock classic — including the time they burned through nearly a dozen of LA’s best studio guitarists in search of a single guitar solo, the time they spent more than six hours trying to nail a two-word phrase, or the time they persuaded a legendary session drummer to play garbage can lids. They’ll also explain the origin of the album’s title, the Hollywood tragedy that supposedly inspired “Peg,” the tour with jazz-royalty they scrapped at the last minute, and the mystery of the missing master tapes. Plus, they'll delve into the rap beef they inadvertently started, and luxuriate in every glorious second of Michael McDonald’s pillowy vocal harmonies. 

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What's better? Dark chocolate or milk chocolate? Jordan and Alex go head-to-head in a bittersweet (eh? EH? C'mon!) grudge match presided over by celebrity chef Richard Blais (Top Chef, MasterChef, etc.) Which confection will come out on top and will our intrepid semi-sweet morsels of minutiae still be friends when the wrappers settle? Listen in and find out!

Food Court with Richard Blais is a production of iHeart Radio, just like yours truly! Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

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Today on a special prehistoric episode of "Too Much Rock-formation" (sorry), Jordan and Alex throw it back to the genesis of the first animated sitcom. They'll discuss all the famous firsts on The Flintstones (including a weirdly sexual one), some of the surprisingly dark plotlines and non-kid-friendly jokes that crop up throughout series, the time the voice of Barney was near death and recorded his parts from a body cast in a hospital bad, the surprising way that Beethoven inspired the theme tune, and the controversies that drew threats of lawsuits from Jackie Gleason and Hulk Hogan. Plus, as if that's not enough, Jordan delivers a brief history of toilets on television! 

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Alex and Jordan delve into all the inter-band drama, personal traumas and prank calls that went into the political pop-punk concept record. They'll explore the painting that inspired "Boulevard of Broken Dreams," the heartbreaking meaning of "Wake Me Up When September Ends," and the mystery of the missing album Green Day were recording before they tackled American Idiot. You'll also learn about the hilariously debauched recording sessions — during which a studio caught fire — the time the band locked a famous drummer in his room, plus the album's bizarre second life as a Broadway musical. 

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Jordan and Alex close out their Olivia Newton-John tribute week with a special expanded episode delving into all the behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the making of the record-breaking musical. You’ll hear all about the surprisingly gritty stage play and early versions of the film: including a proposed X-rated cartoon, another that starred Fonzie and Princess Leia in the leads, and still another that featured a tragic Romeo & Juliet ending! You’ll also learn the multiple tragedies hidden in the “Greased Lightening” scene, why the theme song caused a standoff between the director and The Bee Gees, the occasionally tense moments between John Travolta and Jeff Conaway, and why the production reeked of pork. Plus, the TMI guys helpfully point out the surprisingly dirty references and jokes that definitely went over your head as a kid, and the bizarre fan theories that have sprung up on Reddit. You’ll also discover all the hilariously homemade ways they tried to age down these 30-year-old playing high schoolers, and the misery that resulted when Olivia Newton-John had to be sewn into her skin-tight “Bad Sandy” pants for the film’s finale — and the lost ending to this cherished classic. 

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Jordan and Alex kick off their Olivia Newton John tribute week by exploring one of the biggest, splashiest, most notorious films in Hollywood history. It may have been a box office bomb, but it’s also the only movie that combined disco, Greek mythology, Gene Kelly, roller skating, an abandoned LA landmark, bargain basement special effects, and our beloved ONJ. Learn about how this bizarre project came to be and hear all the crazy behind-the-scenes stories — including the time Olivia Newton-John literally busted her butt on skates, producer Joel Silver (reportedly) locked a screenwriter in a room for days, and Gene Kelly had a hilarious beef with the director. You’ll also learn why Electric Light Orchestra front man Jeff Lynne blamed the movie for his band’s nosedive in the charts and find out why John Lennon had a soft spot for the soundtrack.  

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Alex and Jordan explore one of the greatest left-turns in music history, a stripped-down solo album that finds The Boss grappling with the fallout of fame and the political sea change of Reagan's America. They'll discuss the late-night drives and complicated family dynamics that helped inspire the emotion of the record, as well as the surprising literary, musical and historical influences that crop up, as well. You'll also learn about Springsteen's stubborn insistence on releasing his rough demo cassette (which he'd carried around in the pocket of his jeans jacket for weeks) and the long-lost "Electric Nebraska" recorded with the E Street band. 

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Come on down! Jordan and Alex are diving into the beloved daytime TV juggernaut, which turns 50 years old this very month. You'll learn about the surprising role that Bob Barker’s gray hair played in ratings, the Plinko accident that cost the producers $30,000, the incident where a woman nearly gave birth in the audience, and the time the mom from the Brady Bunch had a car accident live on stage. They'll also discuss the troubling legal squabbles between Bob Barker and the show's models, the scandal that nearly shut down the production, and the potential kinda-sorta-maybe mini feud between Barker and his successor, Drew Carey. 

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Alex and Jordan go deep on the ‘90s one hit wonder with an incredibly colorful origin story, spanning nearly half a century of British social and pop cultural history. Penned by a band of deeply principled anarchist punks squatting in a decaying Victorian manor home, the track’s goofy drinking-song style masked a surprisingly serious political message. Learn how the band became the most unlikely of pop stars and hear about the controversial stunts they staged — from soaking the Deputy Prime Minister to encouraging fans to steal their album, and advocating for a death row inmate while performing on The Tonight Show. You’ll also find out about the true meaning of “Chumbawamba,” the drunk who inspired the lyrics, why the band never scored another hit, and how they weaponized their fame to support social causes. Trust us, there is MUCH more to this  song than you ever realized. Buckle up, because it’s a wild ride.

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Jordan and Alex mark the (unofficial) end of summer with one of the greatest summer flicks of all time. You'll hear the heartbreaking story that inspired the script, learn which cast member blackmailed the crew for porn, and discover why the fake chewing tobacco was gross enough to make the kids puke for real. They'll also delve into the precedent-setting lawsuit sparked by the character of Squints, the gargantuan puppet used to create The Beast, the time the guy who played Smalls headbutted a cop, and the mystery of the missing trout cap. 

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Fresh out the box. Stop, look, and watch. Ready yet, get set, because Jordan and Alex are tackling Nickelodeon’s answer to Saturday Night Live! They’ll discuss the Oscar winner who was passed over for a spot on the show, the historic natural disaster that nearly wrecked the pilot, the time Chris Farley destroyed the entire set in a single take, and Danny Tamberelli’s awkward incident with Britney Spears. They’ll also delve into the unusual origins of Good Burger, the mild backstage drama with the cast, and the slightly-less-than-mild drama behind Kenan and Kel’s temporary split — and a surprisingly touching story about the big ear of corn. 

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Alex and Jordan go deep on the idiosyncratic hip hop mainstay, often cited as one of the best songs of the 21st century. They get into the deceptively heartbreaking lyrics, the unexpected musical inspirations, the brain-crushingly complex music video, and the science of why it’s simultaneously an earworm, a wedding reception staple, and a dangerous song to listen to while driving. They’ll also explore how the song inadvertently set the stage for the infamous “Wardrobe Malfunction” at the 2004 Super Bowl, juiced sales for Polaroid, and sparked Andre 3000’s apparent exile from music in recent years. 

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Jordan and Alex celebrate the Patron Saint of PBS, the Buddha of the brush, the Confucius of the canvas: Mr. Bob freakin’ Ross! They’ll get into the origins of his famous perm (and why he grew to hate it), the time he raised a baby alligator in the family bathtub, and the neurological reasons why his show is guarenteed to bliss you out — plus a deep dive into the ASMR phenomenon. But Bob wasn’t always the King of Chill. You’ll hear about his rough and ready days as a loudmouthed sergeant in the Air Force, his brutal rivalry with his painting mentor, his bizarre connection to the CIA, the mysterious reason you can’t actually buy one of his paintings, and the vicious legal battle that continued in the wake of his death. 

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Alex and Jordan get emotional over appliances as they explore the movie that laid the groundwork for the Toy Story franchise and sparked a debate about the nature of consumer AI products. You'll hear about the eccentric misunderstood sci-fi genius who wrote the book on which the film was based, the Disney-related drama that kept it from reaching a wider audience, the insane lengths the creators went to in order to figure out the personality and psychology of a vacuum cleaner,  and the adorable friendship between castmates Phil Hartman and Jon Lovitz.

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Jordan and Alex talk about the breakups, the beefs, and even the bindis at the heart of No Doubt’s breakthrough record. In a sense, it's the '90s equivalent of Fleetwood Mac's 'Rumours' — not just because of the glut of radio hits like "Just a Girl,” “Spiderwebs,” and, of course, “Don’t Speak,” but also because of the DRAMA. There's inter-band romances, bitter jealousy, teenage tragedy, family squabbles, and…ska! You’ll hear about Gwen Stefani’s phone stalker, the mystery of the missing cover photo dress, the band’s weird-but-deep connection with 'The Simpsons,' and how a stomach bug inspired a standout album cut — plus, be prepared to learn about Walt Disney’s cryogenically frozen head!

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Jordan and Alex dive into the kinder, gentler 1990s outer space movie, which turned 25 in July. They take a look at the romance and creative partnership between Carl Sagan and Ann Druyan that birthed the narrative -- along with detours into Sagan's favorite sci-fi authors and a number of adorable anecdotes about the pair's love story -- and the torturous time the project spent kicking around Hollywood development hell. Gasp at the astonishing number of screenwriters and directors the film went through; thrill at Jodie Foster behind-the-scene stories; ponder at why Matthew McConaughey wanted to play his character with an enormous lumberjack beard! All together now: They should have sent a poet.

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Jordan and Alex dive into this beloved '90s hit, which was recently resurrected at President Biden's inauguration ceremony. They'll explore the colorful story of Gregg Alexander, the reclusive pop genius who retreated from music stardom as soon as the song broke around the world, yet continued to pen chart-toppers under pseudonyms. They'll also get into the beef between Alexander and Marilyn Manson as a result of this song, and why it's earned praise from the likes of Bono, Joni Mitchell and Ice-T, and how they ripped apart a mall food court for the song's iconic music video. 

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Cowabunga, dudes! Alex and Jordan explore the rise of everyone's favorite pizza-loving, butt-kicking reptile, tracing their development from underground comic to the TV that launched a million action figures, record-breaking film and a truly bizarre musical. They'll talk about the killer costumes for the movies that caused the actors to lose 10 pounds in sweat, how the success of the show inadvertently led to an ecological crisis in the United Kingdom. — plus the surprising influence of Jim Henson, Marvel, 'Two and a Half Men' creator Chuck Lorre, and watermelon-smashing comedian Gallagher. You'll also learn about the turtle's wet 'n' wild appearance on Barbara Walters, the origin of their famous "Cowabunga" catch-phrase, and how TMNT superfan Robin Williams helped actress Judith Hoag prepare for her role as April.

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Jordan and Alex welcome their first guest to the show — Vanity Fair editor Maggie Coughlan! Together they explore the agony and the ecstasy of grown men getting hit in the crotch by bulls, launched into orbit in Porta-Potties, snorting wasabi up their nose, and locking themselves in limos with bees. They’ll also discuss the collective medical bills of the 'Jackass' cast, the numerous childhood traumas that led them to pursue this peculiar profession, plus their many run-ins with both the law and with network censors. But it’s not all gross-out gags and hospital stays! You’ll hear about Johnny Knoxville’s touching friendship with Hunter S. Thompson and Jessica Simpson, and Brad Pitt’s adorable desire to be an honorary member of the Jackass crew. (Errr, listener discretion advised...) 

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In this emergency episode of TMI, Jordan and Alex mourn the loss of this iconic frozen treat. In addition to providing a (brief) history of ice cream, Popsicles and the ice cream truck, they’ll explain how the Mexican food craze in the ‘80s lead to the creation of the Choco Taco, how it spread across the globe, and how it influenced ice cream products for years to come. They’ll also delve into an anonymous government employee’s crusade against the novelty dessert, why it’s being discontinued (Was it really the so-called Woke Mob?) and how Dippin’ Dots might point the way towards a Choco Taco rebirth. 

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Alex and Jordan set their sights on GNR’s chart-busting metal opus, which turns 35 years old this month. Get ready for tons of sex (occasionally in the studio), drugs (pretty much everywhere) and rock ’n’ roll on the gritty Sunset Strip of the ‘80s. They’ll discuss the band’s rough pre-fame days sleeping in parking lots and splitting cheeseburgers five ways, and explore the ludicrous decadence of their peak, during which they ripped the toilets out of the home of legendary director Cecil B. DeMille, smashed guitars through the window of rental vans and pushed their bodies to (and sometimes past) the brink of death. They’ll also delve into the (alleged) reason behind the classic lineup’s disintegration, the story behind Slash’s iconic top hat (and his early ties to Bowie), and why “Sweet Child of Mine” almost didn’t get recorded. 

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Jordan and Alex discuss the film that USA Today described as “‘Independence Day’ for smart people.” They’ll get into the finer points of (alleged) real life aliens, as well as Will Smith’s truly horrific farts, why Tommy Lee Jones was grumpy for the whole shoot, and how the movie helped pave the way for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Plus, they’ll touch on Vincent D’Onofrio’s insane makeup job, and the time he drank enough sugar water to seriously risk death. 

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Jordan and Alex dive into McLean's 1971 musical eulogy for both Buddy Holly and the '60s utopian dream. Learn about the secret choir of celebrities that sang on the chorus, the truly insane number of edits it took to stitch this 8-minute epic together, the non-Buddy Holly rock pioneer who inspired Don McLean to write it, plus the heartbreakingly tragic reason why Holly took that fatal flight in the first place. Then buckle up for their lengthy interpretation of the dense lyrical poetry — and discover how McLean's work helped launch Tupac, Gary Busey, Roberta Flack, and Greenpeace. (Though not in that order.) 

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Alex and Jordan discuss Lee's 1972 masterpiece. Find out why it made Chairman Mao cry, helped launch Jackie Chan's career, and influenced everyone from Quentin Tarantino to the Wu Tang Clan. They'll also delve into the mysterious death of the martial arts master, his fascinating connection to the Manson Family murders, his early years as a Hong Kong child star, and the hilarious reason he was rejected from the US Army board.

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Alex and Jordan revisit the groundbreaking, nightmare-inducing cinema classic that set the bar for blending animation with live action. They'll discuss the maddening production process that broke every rule in the cartoon handbook, and the performance challenges that drove star Bob Hoskins so crazy that he took a year off acting. They'll also delve into the hidden X-rated moments, the lost scene in which Popeye belts Goofy in cemetery and explain why this movie represents Bill Murray's greatest regret.  

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Attention all Parrotheads! Jordan and Alex take a trip to Key West to explore one of the breeziest, booziest songs in existence — and uncover the secret darkness at its core. They’ll discuss the colorful cast of characters that helped inspire the track, the drug runners who saved Jimmy’s life, and how Elvis Presley nearly wound up recording the tune. They’ll also recount the time Jamaican police nearly killed Buffett and Bono, the unproduced Harrison Ford/Robert Redford buddy movie inspired by the lyrics, and how the song birthed a multi-billion-dollar empire that’s made Buffett one of the richest celebrities in the world.

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In honor of the July 4th holiday, Jordan and Alex celebrate this flawless cinematic salute to America’s favorite pastime. They’ll discuss the grueling audition process and the rough and tumble shoot that resulted in some major injuries to the cast. They’ll also explore the romantic subplot left on the cutting room floor and the time Madonna pissed off an entire town. From live cow births to 53-second pee-streams, they’ll uncover all the behind-the-scenes details, as well as debunk the famous claim that there’s no crying in baseball. Most controversially, they’ll determine once and for all whether or not Dottie Hinson actually dropped that ball…

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Jordan and Alex discuss the family blood feud that led to the beloved cookie's creation, as well as the physics behind dunking, psychology behind twisting, chemistry behind the cream, and the mystery behind its iconic name. They'll also go deep on the 50+ different varieties, the rumored hidden meanings in the wafer embossing, and some truly gross Oreo-related hazing rituals. 

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Alex and Jordan celebrate the 25th anniversary of the diamond-selling country-crossover smash that spawned immortal hits like "Man! I Feel Like a Woman," "You're Still The One," and "That Don't Impress Me Much." They'll explore Twain's harrowing backstory in the Canadian wilderness, where she overcame abuse, poverty and the death of her parents, and also her unlikely musical (and romantic) partnership with a heavy metal icon — which splintered amid one of the messiest love triangles this side of Fleetwood Mac. Of course, they'll also examine the many influences that went into the album, from '80s new-waver Robert Palmer to Brad Pitt's lawsuit against Playgirl and drag queens in Twain's hometown. And finally, they'll spotlight her triumphant comeback after Lyme disease nearly robbed Twain of her singing voice.

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Jordan and Alex dive into Nickelodeon's ultimate test of physical and mental fitness. They'll explain how the classic millennial gameshow was produced on a shoestring budget, why the prizes were so lame, and how Olmec was made from old disco balls from Radio Shack. They'll also explore the rigorous auditions, why many contestants still have PTSD from doing the Temple Run, and why everyone sucked at assembling the Shrine of the Silver Monkey. 

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Jordan and Alex revisit Jim Carrey's inaugural dramatic role, released on the eve of the reality TV explosion. They'll discuss the gritty, violent first draft set in a faux-NYC (in which Truman abducts a stranger's baby!), the time Jim Carrey nearly died while filming the movie's climax, and why producers filmed at Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz's childhood home. Plus, they'll delve into the practical reality of living in a sunless dome, the psychiatric disorders named in the film's honor, and the truly sadistic reality TV shows that followed in its wake. 

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Jordan and Alex discuss the crown jewel of the PBS lineup, which turns 25 years old this year. They’ll talk about the biggest paydays, worst soul crushing disappointments, plus scams, shenanigans and prison sentences that resulted from the surprisingly cut-throat world of antiquing. There’s also the time one of the appraisers drank urine, another one pulled a severed dog head out of a suitcase, and an unsuspecting guest learned they accidentally spent thousands on grocery store olive oil. Plus, they’ll also explain how the show was used to defend a murder suspect!

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Alex and Jordan delve into the infamous animated '90s flick that traumatized a generation of kids with its terrifying (yet oddly sexy) pollution monster, Hexxus. But it's not all nightmare fuel! They'll discuss the 14 hours of improvised dialogue that Robin Williams provided for filmmakers, Disney's ruthless attempts to crush the film before it made it to theaters, and how Elton John, Jimmy Buffett and Tone Loc all got roped into the soundtrack. 

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Given its recent rediscovery thanks its inclusion on ’Stranger Things,’ Alex and Jordan celebrate Kate Bush’s immortal “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God).” Join them as they explore the song’s genesis in a rural English barn, the pioneering piece of technology that lent the song its distinctive sound, and the emotional backstory behind the lyrics. They’ll also discuss Bush’s battle with sexism, her unexpected connections with Pink Floyd, James Bond, David Bowie, and why Prince called her his “favorite woman.”

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In the conclusion of this two-part episode, Jordan and Alex explain how the Starman took flight, blasting Bowie into the upper echelon of the music world and setting a benchmark for rock ’n’ roll theatricality, physicality, and pure imagination — not to mention pure rock ’n’ roll excess. They’ll also take a look at Bowie’s complex relationship with both his band and the LGBTQ community, meditate on the likelihood that he was a sex addict, explore his fascination with Japan, and explain why he ultimately killed off his most famous creation at the peak of Ziggy’s popularity. 

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As Bowie’s boundary-shattering breakthrough turns 50, Jordan and Alex dive deep into his alien alter-ego with their first two-part episode. To kick things off, they dissect the many influences that went into Ziggy, from eccentric reclusive rockstars to David’s history with his tragic half-brother. They’ll also explain why the piano used on the sessions is one of the most important instruments in rock, explore the intriguing connection between “Starman” and ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ and describe the moment that Freddie Mercury stood front row for Ziggy’s grand unveiling.

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Alex and Jordan take a (wincing) look at David Lynch’s cult classic. They’ll explore how the film’s shoestring budget dragged the production into a truly wild five-year shoot that Lynch largely funded with his paper route. In addition to diving into the famous quirks of the eccentric auteur (milkshakes, multiple ties, animal dissections, etc.), they’ll get into the lost scenes, homemade sets, haunted houses and unsolved murders that went into Eraserhead. Finally, the pair try to answer the biggest mysteries surrounding the movie: what’s it mean, what’s up with Henry’s hair, and just what the hell is that baby made out of?

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Alex and Jordan take a Mach 5 look at Tom Cruise's beloved ‘80s fighter-plane flick, currently enjoying a new moment in the spotlight thanks to its long-in-the-making sequel. They dive into the tale of the maverick production team that took the story from the pages of a magazine to the big screen, explore Tom and Val Kilmer’s onset method-acting madness, and relive the time director Tony Scott had to pay $25,000 to turn a boat around. They’ll also explain how the movie was crucial in jumpstarting the home video market and describe how the famous baby oil-drenched volleyball scene came to be. 

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Alex and Jordan explore the genesis of Sir Mix’s salute to the glute, a wild saga that involves guns, nuns, and a 50-foot fiberglass butt. For the Seattle MC, it’s a surprisingly personal battle against racist beauty standards, as well as a fierce fight against censorship practices — and the vandals who keep popping his enormous inflatable ass during its promo tour of the country. As “Baby Got Back” turns 30, find out how Mix made the goofy-yet-serious ‘90s classic, and just how many butts he was forced to study to create the iconic music video.

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Jordan and Alex look back on the creation of one of rock’s most storied albums — from one of rock’s most cursed enterprises. They’ll discuss the band’s cocaine fueled pursuit of perfection, including the time Lindsey Buckingham strangled one of the engineers, as well as the saga of “Silver Springs,” and the mystery of Mick Fleetwood’s (wooden) balls. They’ll also discuss why Buckingham restrung his guitar every twenty minutes to record "Never Going Back Again," why Stevie Nicks wrote “Dreams” in Sly Stone’s bed, and why the Rolling Stone cover shoot added to the intense interpersonal drama within the group. (The answer to all of these, directly or indirectly, is cocaine.) 

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Jordan and Alex talk about hilarious true story that inspired classic 2001 film, as well as Reese Witherspoon’s nature documentary-style trips to Southern California sororities, Bruiser the Dog’s connection with the Taco Bell dog, the drunken origin of the bend-and-snap (and its long lost musical number), exactly what became of all of Elle’s 60 outfits from the film, and how it’s indirectly responsible for saving someone’s life.

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Alex and Jordan trace the creation of Aretha Franklin’s 1967 empowerment anthem, diving into the mystery surrounding who actually wrote the song (possibly NOT Otis Redding) and the origin of “TCB.” They also talk about how the song’s catchphrase may have gotten Ricard Nixon elected, why an in-studio brawl with a drunken trumpeter nearly killed the song before it was ever recorded, and how a surprising number of people associated with the song wound up getting murdered. 

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Jordan and Alex discuss the underdog of the ‘90s video game wars. They’ll explain why Bill Clinton inspired the speedy character, how Michael Jackson may (or may not) have composed the theme music, and how corporate chaos nearly sunk the beloved hedgehog before the game was ever released. They’ll also delve into the history of video game easter eggs, the strange subculture of video game high score champs, the Sonic balloon disaster at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the unfortunate “teeth incident” that occurred before Sonic made his big screen debut in 2020. 

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With 'Top Gun' Fever in the air, Jordan and Alex take a look at a different kind of Tom Cruise classic. They talk about how Cuba Gooding Jr got naked during his audition, the true origin of the phrase "Show me the money," and why Cameron Crowe went through way more humiliation than anyone should endure in order to make this film. They'll also explore how adorable Ray grew up to become an MMA fighter and discuss whether the human head really does weigh eight pounds. 

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Jordan and Alex settle into their Thinking Chairs to delve into the beloved ‘90s children’s TV classic. They’ll discuss the time Steve crashed a toddler’s ‘Blue’s Clues’-themed birthday party accompanied by a swimsuit model, why the program got props from Malcolm Gladwell, and the show’s weird connection to both Ray Charles and the Flaming Lips. They’ll also explore how show inadvertently gave rise to a generation of smelly, Ralph Lauren-wearing children, and trace the origin of the 'Steve Is Dead' urban legend. 

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Alex and Jordan take on the classic rock monolith, sorting through all the Satanism myths and supernatural lore. They’ll delve into the battle to record the famous solo, how it got its premiere in the middle of a war zone, and the drama behind the ‘Wayne’s World’ joke. They’ll also explain why Jimmy Page’s stinginess resulted in “Stairway” being recorded in a dilapidated haunted mansion, how Robert Plant paid a radio station thousands of dollars to stop playing it, and determine whether Phil Collins was to blame for their disastrous performance at Live Aid.

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Alex and Jordan turn their eyes to the pioneering First Family of reality TV. You’ll learn the truth behind the famous flying ham incident, discover all the ways the Osbournes tried to dodge the camera crew when they didn’t want to be filmed, and find out whether it’s medically possible for Ozzy to snort a line of ants. They’ll also explore the family feud with the sister who didn’t want to end up on camera and unpack the drama between Kelly and Christina Aguilera —who later bought the Osbourne family home and turned her old bedroom into a shoe closet. Jordan also shares his weirdly plausible theory of how Jay Leno could have fronted Black Sabbath….(really).

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Jordan and Alex are here to spice up your life by giving you all the behind-the-scenes details about the Spice Girls’ debut. You’ll find out how Mel B stole toilet paper from Nelson Mandela, Emma Bunton nearly died during the “Say You’ll Be There” video shoot, and Geri Halliwell made her iconic Union Jack dress from a dish towel. (Oh yeah, and the time she asked Prince Charles if he had a Prince Albert…) They’ll also dive into Margaret Thatcher’s surprising influence on “Girl Power,” the mystery of The Lost Spice Girl, and the true meaning of “zig-a-zig-ah.”

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Jordan and Alex explore the surprisingly emotional backstory of the iconic ‘90s spy-spoof franchise and run down the extensive list of influences Mike Myers pulled from — ranging from Bond and the Beatles to astrophysicist Stephen Hawking. They’ll also describe how Dr. Evil caused a rift between Myers and his ‘Wayne’s World’ costar Dana Carvey, explain which beloved scenes were completely improvised, and outline how the series impacted the future of 007. The tragic story of Random Task actor Joe Son is (almost) offset by the touching fan letter Myers received from George Harrison — the last note the Beatle ever wrote before his death in 2001. Buckle up because these guys are going deep — it’s their favorite movie, baby! 

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Alex and Jordan delve into the creation of Marvin Gaye’s magnum opus. Though recently crowned “The Greatest Album of All Time” by Rolling Stone, Motown chief Berry Gordy called it the worst thing he’d ever heard in his life and wanted to toss it on the scrap heap. They’ll explain how Stevie Wonder saved the day, why Gaye nearly abandoned his music career in favor of joining the NFL, and how the song’s iconic sax line came about as a total accident. They’ll also get into Gaye’s unorthodox pre-singing rituals — so take note, vocalists! (On second thought, maybe don’t…) 

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Jordan and Alex discuss the Olympics of Trivia on this extra-special “Jeop-isode” of TMI! You’ll find out how Lucille Ball helped get Alex Trebek the hosting gig (and how hash brownies nearly put him out of commission), how the theme tune was written on a Hollywood icon’s piano, and how the writers come up with clues in the first place. The duo will also lift the lid on the show’s finely-honed production process, offer tips on the insane, PTSD-inducing preparation that prospective contestants go through, and reveal whether or not Trebek ever met his SNL Celebrity Jeopardy nemesis Sean Connery in real life.

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Jordan and Alex invite you to be their guest as they revisit the crown jewel of the ‘90s Disney Renaissance. They’ll dive into the original non-musical incarnation before getting into the gut-wrenching backstory behind the legendary songs. They’ll also explain why the animators drew 20 different versions of Gaston’s chest-hair; the strange connection between the Beast, Luke Skywalker and Regis Philbin; and how Disney drew inspiration from The Wizard of Oz for the character of Belle. And, at long last, you’ll learn the truth about the Beast’s rainbow butt. 

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Alex and Jordan are taking on the gold standard of the '70s singer-songwriter era. You’ll find out how Neil's busted back impacted the sound of the record, which ‘70s icons had secret singing cameos, and how Neil crushed his father’s spirit by divulging the true meaning of the track “Old Man.” They'll also explain how some of the songs created a bit of tension with Bob Dylan, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and the London Symphony Orchestra. And, of course, they'll explore the true love story at the heart of this record: Neil Young and his barn. 

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Jordan and Alex dive into everyone’s favorite family of gifted misfits. They’ll talk about the time Anjelica Huston’s hair caught on fire, Mordecai the falcon was held for ransom by a random New Jersey resident, Gwyneth Paltrow’s bowling date with Paul McCartney, and also how Bill Murray had to protect Wes Anderson from being bullied by Gene Hackman. They’ll also take a close look at the fashion, music and typefaces of Anderson’s 2001 classic.

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Have MUR-SAY! Jordan and Alex pay tribute to the late great Bob Saget with their deep dive into this classic of the TGIF television lineup — which turns 35 this year! Get ready to learn about John Stamos’ over-the-top Disney collection, the Olsen twins’ experience with baby dentures, and Uncle Joey’s famous flatulence. They’ll also talk about the time the cast filmed a scene pants-less and did '"whippets" on the set. Plus find out why the show’s creator owns one of the most notorious crime-scenes in Hollywood history. And rest assured, there’s lots of stuff about the Beach Boys, too.

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Alex and Jordan are voulez-vousing their way through the hit that lit up countless dance floors and taught countless dudes the one line of French they'd take with them their entire lives. They'll delve into Patti LaBelle's iconic original, plus the assembly (and feuds) of the pop supergroup that recorded the Aughts version for Baz Luhrmann's epic, 'Moulin Rouge.' 

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Jordan and Alex go deep on Steven Soderbergh’s remake of the classic 1960 Rat Pack heist film. Listen and learn why Brad Pitt ate 40 shrimp, Don Cheadle refused to be credited, and why the original Rat Packers hated this movie. You’ll also learn how the most famous scene was improvised, The Royal Tenenbaums’s made casting a nightmare, and all the ways George Clooney pranked just about everybody. 

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In their ongoing effort to explain why the Swedes are so good at making pop, Alex and Jordan dive into the creation of “Dancing Queen.” (Spoiler: It might involve working their recording engineers to the brink of exhaustion.) They also touch on the lengthy writing process for the song, its long-lost verse, its debut before Scandinavian royalty, why it was banned in New York City, and how it inspired everyone from Blondie and Elvis Costello to Nirvana and MGMT. 

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The TMI trivia titans turn their sights towards the classic Nick Toon, explaining how the character of Chuckie Finster was inspired by a New Wave rock icon, how the voice of Tommy Pickles recorded an episode between contractions while giving birth, and how the show has ties to the biggest animated show in history: The Simpsons. They’ll also delve into messy legal squabbles that divided the show’s creators for decades — and what finally brought them back together. Get ready for everything you never knew about Rugrats. 

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Jordan and Alex serve up everything you didn’t know about Steven Spielberg’s beloved sequel to Peter Pan, diving deep into the saga of the on-set pirate wranglers, Dustin Hoffman’s disgusting daily breakfast, and a host of hidden celebrity cameos. They’ll also delve into all the ways that the kid who played Rufio was a real-life badass and all the ways that Robin Williams was (predictably) the best. You’ll find out why Julia Roberts had a miserable time, Michael Jackson placed a curse on the legendary director and Phil Collins got uptight. Most importantly, you’ll discover the true meaning of “bangarang.” 

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