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John Hodgman and Maximum Fun
John Hodgman's Today in the Past podcast is now The Judge John Hodgman Podcast. Have your pressing issues decided by Famous Minor Television Personality John Hodgman, Certified Judge. If you'd like John Hodgman to solve your pressing issue, simply email it, along with your phone number, to [email protected]. THAT IS ALL.
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In Combat Chambers

In Combat Chambers

Judge John Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse Thorn are in chambers this week, discussing listening to Hamilton before seeing the show, the famous noise from Law and Order, the sporty merits of cheer leading and more! Plus, some letters in response to Episode 258, In Moto Parentis. Tickets are still available for Judge John Hodgman's East Coast tour! Get 'em while you still can. More info at MaximumFun.org. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
40:2725/05/2016
Capital T and That Rhymes With P and That Stands for Justice

Capital T and That Rhymes With P and That Stands for Justice

Judge John Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse Thorn clear the docket and rule on pizza ordering, when to watch the next season of Game of Thrones, cereal dust, learning to drive as an adult and more. Tickets are on sale now for Judge John Hodgman's East Coast tour! More information at MaximumFun.org. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
39:0918/05/2016
Grand Theft Risotto

Grand Theft Risotto

Mike brings the case against his mom, Maribeth. He says Maribeth knowingly took her daughter-in-law's recipes for a family cookbook and passed them off as her own. Maribeth says that the attribution was implied and there was no wrongdoing. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
57:0111/05/2016
All Laws Are Off

All Laws Are Off

Judge John Hodgman rules on overfilling ice cube trays, the best spelling of Elliot for a baby, dog park etiquette, podcast recommendations and more. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
44:5005/05/2016
Livin' That CALI415 Life

Livin' That CALI415 Life

SPONSORED BONUS EPISODE: Judge John Hodgman, Bailiff Jesse Thorn and Expert Witness and Automotive Enthusiast Rhea Butcher clear an all-automobile-related docket in a bonus episode of Judge John Hodgman sponsored by Chevrolet. They'll weigh in on whether you can avoid being a jerk with a vanity plate, how to decide whose car to drive to the malt shop, new-car advice, and more. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
39:4829/04/2016
No Acquitting for Taste

No Acquitting for Taste

Abtin brings the case against his girlfriend Kelsey over the decor in their new apartment. Abtin wants to go modern and classy. Kelsey says that would be boring and wants furnishings that are more quirky and unique. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
50:0627/04/2016
In Moto Parentis

In Moto Parentis

Leigh files suit against her son Duncan. Duncan is ready to take to the open road on a motorcycle. His parents aren't fans of the idea, and want him to wait until he's older and can shoulder the cost and risk on his own. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
57:3620/04/2016
Jesse Finds a Crux

Jesse Finds a Crux

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse Thorn clear out the docket on free refills, open mics (or is it open MIKES?), canoe weekends and what to do if your friend recommends a book he hasn't actually read. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
46:4913/04/2016
Baggage Claims

Baggage Claims

Ty files suit against her partner Zach. Zach is obsessed with earning and using airline points and miles. Ty also likes to travel, but she wants to give up the crazy schemes and choose their vacation destinations and itineraries the "normal" way. Who's right? Who's wrong? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
45:5806/04/2016
Anecdontal Evidence

Anecdontal Evidence

With expert witness Teresa McElroy of Shmanners! Bob brings the case against his fiancee Alessandra. They have a "no boring stories" policy when they are at home together. Now Alessandra wants an exception for stories about the workplace. Should they change the rules? Only one man can decide. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
49:0031/03/2016
Greasy Rider

Greasy Rider

With Special Expert Witness Alton Brown! Stephanie brings the case against her partner Jeff, who works as a chef. Jeff will often leave his smoky and bacon-y aprons and detritus in his car. Stephanie thinks that the car should remain neat and clean; Jeff says the mess is manageable, and comes with the job. Who's right? Who's wrong? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
01:05:1523/03/2016
Decease and Desist

Decease and Desist

We premiere a new segment this week, Status Conference, plus a dad goes on trial. Marc brings the case against his wife Polly. They had a beloved dog who passed away several years ago. Marc would like to assemble and prepare a display of the skeleton in memory of their pet. Polly thinks this is weird and gross. Who's right? Who's wrong? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
01:07:2316/03/2016
The Cradle of Pizza Civilization

The Cradle of Pizza Civilization

Judge Hodgman fills us in on the birthplace of Italian-American pizza, garbage and breezeways, the adventures of Alex Vennenzula, and more. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
41:0009/03/2016
Wrecks Libris

Wrecks Libris

Jeanna files suit against her husband Craig. She insists that Craig mishandles books, by dogearing the pages and using them as doorstops around the house.  Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
01:00:4602/03/2016
Phone of Contention

Phone of Contention

Must a stay-at-home dad be obliged to answer calls and texts? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
51:2625/02/2016
A Toast to Serra Angels

A Toast to Serra Angels

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse rule on toaster ovens, purchasing "singles" in card games and whether a couple should go for the animal trifecta - two puppies and a kitten. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
47:4017/02/2016
The Glass-Action Lawsuit

The Glass-Action Lawsuit

Dan files suit against his girlfriend Jessica. Jessica has a pair of low-grade prescription glasses. She prefers not to wear them, claiming they are not attractive. Dan says she's missing out on life by refusing to wear the glasses. Who's right? Who's wrong? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
55:5410/02/2016
Bros Before Globes

Bros Before Globes

Should a globe-trotting pal be forced to come home every once in a while? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
57:0403/02/2016
Miami Memories

Miami Memories

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse address airplane etiquette, the importance of Hamilton, swear words and more! There's no explicit content in this one, but you may not want kids listening to it all the same. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
51:1829/01/2016
Live from SF Sketchfest 2016

Live from SF Sketchfest 2016

"Beyond a Reasonable Drought" and "A Portrait of the Artist as a Weird Dad", taped in front of a live audience at SF Sketchfest 2016! Plus, Swift Justice and songs from special guest Thao Nguyen of Thao and the Get Down Stay Down. Look out for Thao's new record and tourdates at the band's site. A MAN ALIVE is out March 4th! Please note that this week's episode includes bleeped swearing. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
01:33:0421/01/2016
Commedia della Morte

Commedia della Morte

Jesse brings the case against his dad, Joseph. Joseph insists that his children hire a mime for his funeral (when the time comes). Jesse insists that a funeral is a time for grieving, not miming.  Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
55:5813/01/2016
The Nog Tank

The Nog Tank

Judge Hodgman and Jesse clear the docket on shouting at drive thrus, ski trips, subway turtles and more, and also set the record straight on Sha-Na-Na. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
50:2507/01/2016
The Long-Sleeved Arm of the Law

The Long-Sleeved Arm of the Law

Blair brings the case against her husband Jon. In hot weather, Jon would like to wear one of his few treasured tank tops to cool off and feel the breeze. Blair thinks that tank tops on men look terrible and expose their sweaty arms to the masses.  Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
49:4630/12/2015
Guilty as Charred

Guilty as Charred

Simone brings the case against her husband, Julian. They're currently living abroad in Portugal, on the island of Madeira. They've enjoyed adapting to the customs of their new home, but Julian can't get used to their special built-in grill. Simone says they should do as the Portuguese do and figure out how to take advantage of this beautiful piece of equipment. Julian thinks they should just buy a hibachi. Who's right? Who's wrong? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
53:1524/12/2015
Hockey Dockey Christmas

Hockey Dockey Christmas

Dramatic sneezing, toothpaste storage in the shower, ugly Christmas plates, and British vs. American PCs. Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse clear out the docket. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
37:5217/12/2015
Textual Harassment

Textual Harassment

When Hector wants to get a hold of his friend Molly, he'll send her repeated texts or emails, with just the word "hi" or an emoji. Molly says his digital poking has become a stressor in her life. Can Judge Hodgman help these pals resolve their dispute? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
51:3610/12/2015
Pedantry of My Own

Pedantry of My Own

Judge Hodgman's coda to the "A Hot Dog is Not a Sandwich" debate, plus rulings on wedding photography, urinating in public showers, pillow borrowing, and how to credit others' work on the internet. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
44:2502/12/2015
Trial By Kombat

Trial By Kombat

Laura has refused to play Mortal Kombat with her boyfriend Austin since he began doing extensive research and practice outside of their video game sessions. Should Austin come back down to her level so they can play a beloved game together? CAN he even do so? Guest Bailiffed by David Rees! Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
52:1625/11/2015
A Little Dockey

A Little Dockey

Judge Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse clear out the docket, taking on the right way to share a suitcase, how to order at restaurants without infuriating your server, and "The Game". Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
41:4518/11/2015
Grime and Punishment

Grime and Punishment

Guest Bailiff David Rees joins us to talk about whether or not a married couple should hire a housecleaner. GOING DEEP with David Rees returns for its second season tonight on the Esquire Network! Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
54:3311/11/2015
Shut Your Pious Hole

Shut Your Pious Hole

Libby brings the case against her husband Aaron. Aaron is a minister by occupation, and thinks he should always be upfront about his job when meeting new people. Libby says he should play it cool till he gets to know them a bit better. Who's right? Who's wrong? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
50:5106/11/2015
The Slight Freaks

The Slight Freaks

Judge Hodgman and Guest Bailiff Elliott Kalan of the Flop House clear out the docket, ruling on how to talk to a robot, the rights and privileges of toys, the appropriate way to introduce your kids to team sports, and more. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
01:03:4230/10/2015
Oh, Goodie

Oh, Goodie

Judge John Hodgman and Bailiff Jesse Thorn clear out the docket, addressing issues of late-night hot tubbing, cuddling in theaters, rug placement and taking photos with Wayne Gretzky. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
44:1921/10/2015
The Hard of Hearing

The Hard of Hearing

Reed's dad Bruce has suffered some hearing loss - must he try hearing aids? How about an ear trumpet? Find out when Judge John Hodgman rules! Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
55:0114/10/2015
It May or May Not Take a Village

It May or May Not Take a Village

Switcheroo week! One Bad Mother hosts Biz Ellis and Theresa Thorn are guest hosting Judge John Hodgman this week. You'll find John Hodgman over at the RISK! podcast. Judge Biz and Bailiff Theresa decide: should a couple with a baby seek out other young parents? Or are their old (non-parent) friends sufficient? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
50:3407/10/2015
Rewind is a Sometimes Command

Rewind is a Sometimes Command

Judge Hodgman and Guest Bailiff Paul F. Tompkins clear out the docket! Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
48:5130/09/2015
Feliz Gravitas

Feliz Gravitas

Featuring Guest Bailiff Paul F. Tompkins! Siblings Rolland and Nyssa want to reboot the family Christmas. How should they go about it?  Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
57:0023/09/2015
No-show Contendere

No-show Contendere

Ted brings the case against his good friend Chris. They will make plans, but Chris will suddenly become unreachable when it comes time to meet up. Ted's calls and texts go unanswered. Ted says Chris needs to step up and let him know when his plans have changed. Chris says the plans weren't firm, so he's not entirely in the wrong. Who's right? Who's wrong? Only one man can decide. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
58:3017/09/2015
A Nothingburger Sort of Thing to Do

A Nothingburger Sort of Thing to Do

Judge Hodgman and Guest Bailiff Jean Grae take on the proper way to do the YMCA dance, marriage proposals, and more. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
43:1410/09/2015
Go Set a Tip Jar

Go Set a Tip Jar

Two friends co-host a literary reading series as a labor of love. Should they begin to seek donations? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
49:4002/09/2015
Justice De-furred

Justice De-furred

Is fresh best? How often should pet-soiled sheets be washed? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
44:0429/08/2015
Waiting for the Drop

Waiting for the Drop

Listen in as Judge John rules on metal meat utensils, 40 year olds listening to EDM, Vlad the Impaler-based religions, and the proper order to listen to podcasts. This week with Bailiff Jesse Thorn! Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
44:2420/08/2015
Eminent Toe-main

Eminent Toe-main

What's "public" and what's "private" space? A woman agrees to refrain from wearing a certain pair of shoes in public, but finds the terms unclear. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
45:4412/08/2015
I Want My nth TV

I Want My nth TV

  Caroline brings the case against her husband Steve. They cannot agree -- how many TVs is TOO many? Caroline thinks it's best to minimize TV watching, and that a single TV is most appropriate. Steve says it can't hurt to have a few extra screens as long as you don't go overboard. Who's right? Who's wrong? Only one man can decide. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
49:5805/08/2015
Good Time Summertime Docket Clearin'

Good Time Summertime Docket Clearin'

Judge Hodgman is assisted by Summertime Bailiff Monte Belmonte, taking on questions of broccoli-chomping, accidental raccoonslaughter, game night disputes, and the best construction of jokes. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
33:3030/07/2015
Axed and Answered

Axed and Answered

Should Adrian be allowed to purchase an artisanal axe, flouting house rules about weapons? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
49:2822/07/2015
Troll-o Contendere

Troll-o Contendere

When someone posts something offensive or wrong on social media, should you call them out? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
01:00:2915/07/2015
Battle of the Podcast Stars

Battle of the Podcast Stars

That's my verdict, that's my ruling! Judge John Hodgman rules on dressing cats in shirts, obnoxious behavior at Mexican restaurants, and more. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
45:4402/07/2015
An Alchemic Clark Bar of Delight

An Alchemic Clark Bar of Delight

Judge Hodgman tells us what's wrong and what's right! Is ice cream actually "candy"? Should you go to your mom's 60th birthday party? Is it ok to leave used snot rags lying around? Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
39:2024/06/2015
Great Balls of Ire

Great Balls of Ire

Aron and Molly's yard is littered with balls kicked over from the park next door. They can't agree on how best to return the balls and appease the kids. Judge John Hodgman: Road Court is happening NOW! Get your tickets at maximumfun.org/events.
47:5918/06/2015