Jun 2, 2026
Ryan is off losing money in Las Vegas, so we all chanted "Barnacle! Barnacle! Barnacle!" -- and lo and behold, Ben Zimmer appeared in the studio to regale everyone with tales of the Scripps National Spelling Bee! That, plus jealousy of the British, misery around baseball, and even discussion of some crosswords.
If you...
May 26, 2026
This week, Ryan and Brian celebrate the Marx Brothers, Van Halen, and mediocre cryptic clues, all at varying levels of ... celebration. Consider participating in the upcoming NPL Convention and/or Scott Weiss's newest Anti-Match Quiz.
If you get bored (how could you?!), write something for the Fill Me In wiki. And if...
May 19, 2026
This week, Ryan and Brian continue their efforts to understand unusual math, this time courtesy of the Dozenal Society. Other topics include the Minute Cryptic, Les Miserables (but not really digging into Musical Theater analysis, sorry), and whether your streak stories are "interesting."
If you get bored (how could...
May 12, 2026
This week, Ryan and Brian try to understand sexagesimal counting, take a crack at some cryptic crossword clues, and say the number five in a way they haven't said it in over two years. Also, check out the new charity pack of crosswords, Midis for Minnesota.
If you get bored (how could you?!), write something for the
May 5, 2026
This week, Ryan and Brian can't find a burger at a burger bar, learn about the Peanut Butter Lacuna, and marvel at the existence of a 6-day week.
If you get bored (how could you?!), write something for the Fill Me In wiki. And if you're feeling philanthropic, donate to our Patreon.
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