The popular NPR news quiz show, "Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!," broadcast live from Honolulu, Hawaii, on October 11, 2025. The special event featured ukulele virtuoso Taimane as the 'Not My Job' guest, engaging with host Peter Sagal and the show's panel in a unique island setting.
The recording marked a significant occasion for the long-running program, bringing its distinctive blend of humor and current events to a new audience. Listeners experienced the show's format live from the Hawaiian capital, enjoying the interactive segments and comedic commentary that characterize "Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!".
Key Takeaways
- "Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!" broadcast live from Honolulu on October 11, 2025.
- Ukulele artist Taimane was the special 'Not My Job' guest.
- The show featured regular panelists Joyelle Nicole Johnson, Paula Poundstone, and Peter Grosz.
- Alzo Slade served as guest judge and scorekeeper for the Honolulu event.
Live Recording in Honolulu
The broadcast took place on October 11, 2025, with the show commencing at 12:30 PM ET. This live recording provided a fresh backdrop for the program, known for its recordings in various locations across the United States. The Honolulu event allowed for a direct connection with local audiences and introduced Hawaiian culture elements into the show.
The host, Peter Sagal, guided the proceedings, ensuring the usual mix of news, quizzes, and humorous discussions. The live atmosphere often leads to spontaneous moments and increased audience participation, which are hallmarks of "Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!" recordings outside its regular studio.
Show Facts
- The program runs for approximately 46 minutes and 41 seconds.
- It is a weekly news quiz show produced by NPR.
- The show combines humor with current event questions.
Guest Spotlight: Taimane
Ukulele virtuoso and composer Taimane was the featured 'Not My Job' guest. She joined the panel to answer questions on an unrelated topic, a traditional segment where guests are tested on subjects outside their expertise. Taimane is a highly acclaimed musician, recognized for her innovative playing style and original compositions.
She has received significant recognition in the music industry. In both 2019 and 2023, Taimane was named the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Favorite Entertainer of the Year. This award highlights her popularity and impact within the Hawaiian music scene and beyond.
"Mini Guitar; Meet Mini Golf" was the theme of the 'Not My Job' quiz for Taimane, challenging her knowledge of miniature golf with three specific questions.
Her participation brought a unique cultural flavor to the show, showcasing the talent of a local Hawaiian artist to a national and international audience. Taimane is known for her energetic performances and her ability to blend various musical genres with the ukulele.
About Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
The Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards are Hawaii's premier music awards, recognizing excellence in recorded music. Established in 1978, they are often referred to as the "Grammys of Hawaii." Winning this award is a significant achievement for artists in the Hawaiian music industry, indicating both critical and popular acclaim.
Panelists and Scorekeeper
The show's regular panel featured comedians Joyelle Nicole Johnson, Paula Poundstone, and Peter Grosz. These panelists are known for their quick wit and humorous takes on current events. They participated in segments such as 'Who's Alzo This Time,' 'Hit the Market Bluff the Listener,' and 'Panel Questions.'
Alzo Slade served as the guest judge and scorekeeper for the Honolulu episode. His role involved keeping track of points and occasionally offering comedic interjections. Slade also read three news-related limericks in a dedicated segment, adding another layer of humor to the broadcast.
The panelists engaged in discussions on various topics, including a segment called 'Friendly Hands Make Light Work.' This segment, along with 'Good News For Bickering Couples,' provided lighthearted commentary on everyday life and news stories.
Show Segments and Topics
- 'Who's Alzo This Time': A segment focused on identifying Alzo Slade's role in the episode.
- 'Fly The Frenzied Skies; An Ode To A Mighty Tree; Cocoa Cutting': These titles suggest stories about air travel, nature, and commodity production.
- 'Hit the Market Bluff The Listener': Panelists presented three stories, with the audience guessing which one was true, often involving controversies, such as those at Hallmark.
- 'Not My Job': Taimane answered questions about miniature golf, linking a 'mini guitar' (ukulele) to the 'mini golf' theme.
- 'Good News For Bickering Couples; Friendly Hands Make Light Work': These segments likely involved humorous news items or advice.
- Limericks: Alzo Slade read three news-related limericks on topics like 'Silver Snorters,' 'Starbucks Parties,' and 'Shopping Nightmares.'
- 'Lightning Fill In The Blank': A rapid-fire quiz on various news items.
- Predictions: Panelists offered predictions, including what might be a controversial song on Taylor Swift's next album.
These segments collectively form the structure of the "Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!" program, blending news analysis with comedic improvisation. The Honolulu setting offered a unique backdrop for these familiar elements.