Episode 505
Changing the game with Greg Fitzsimmons.
This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 13th, 2009 at 6:00 pm and is filed under Season 5. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.









May 13th, 2009 at 10:38 pm
I didn’t even know Jimmy knew him! This will be fun. Uno!?
May 13th, 2009 at 10:58 pm
Bring back Pat!
May 14th, 2009 at 1:25 am
This is definitely in the top 5 episodes (this season) ….. actually its pretty friggin good - the awkward pauses and silences were golden.
Keep it up team ….. and bring back Pat Francis soon.
May 14th, 2009 at 3:30 am
I thought this ep was gonna go off the rails but Mr Pardo & the crew turned it around in the true spirit of NNF…
May 14th, 2009 at 7:51 am
Don’t miss Matt’s killer line, “He’s now time-travelling to insult you!”
May 14th, 2009 at 8:09 am
Nice to have Fitzsimmons on.
Please don’t ever have him back.
May 14th, 2009 at 8:21 am
wow. never heard anyone miss the point of the show by so much. probably the worst show thus far. oops
May 14th, 2009 at 8:55 am
Wow, it looks like this will be a polarizing episode! I loved it, for all the reasons that others might not have.
May 14th, 2009 at 9:15 am
It happened! Truly unfunny and un-enjoyable. I was startng to get the feeling towards the end of season four that the show has run its course. This episode blew.
May 14th, 2009 at 9:39 am
At first, I was a little unsure of Greg’s attitude towards Jimmy and our beloved show, but you got to take it with a grain of salt and realize they are just having fun. This is a comedy show first and foremost. It is the same thing as Jimmy shitting on everyone (namely Todd Glass and Jimmy Dore’s podcast), but since you don’t know this guys personality as well, he just came off as kind of a dick. It was a really funny episode in the end. It was a little different, but I think it still held up to all the NNF standards. You guys are being too close minded about your Never Not Funny.
May 14th, 2009 at 9:56 am
Well put, AirJordan. If anyone thought Jimmy was serious when shitting on people, no one would ever laugh. It’s the larger-than-life insulting persona that makes Jimmy funny. He is not an asshole, he is mocking assholes.
That’s what made this episode so funny to me. If Greg went on, say, This American Life and started ripping into the mild-mannered Ira Glass, it wouldn’t be funny. He would be a bully in an unfair fight. But lashing out at Pardo (or “Pardo’s character” to be fair) is hilarious to me, because they can both dish it out as well as take it. This is just the first time we’ve heard someone stick to it so relentlessly for so long, and yet he did it WHILE genuinely praising Jimmy’s talent.
Yes, this episode was off-kilter from the others. But I’ve already heard it 3 times because it makes me laugh just about non-stop. “Your sitting next to a 2-drawer aluminum file cabinet” had me in tears.
May 14th, 2009 at 10:05 am
I love this episode. One of the all-time best. I was unsure at first, but I really enjoyed the back and forth.
May 14th, 2009 at 10:11 am
Like Bill Dwyer’s episodes, this episode was “work” to listen to. I’ve always been on the edge about Fitzsimmons and I think this turned me off from him. His overly confrontational and aggressive attitude isn’t for me. I like when the show flows more smoothly and jokes come up organically. Plus, more people probably listen to NNF than Greg’s show on Howard’s second-tier satellite channel.
May 14th, 2009 at 10:20 am
I had no problem with the ball busting. That was fine. It was the sheer fact that Greg clearly had no idea what the vibe or feel of the show was. He seemed to really think he was being interviewed and wouldn’t let anyone else get a word in edgewise. My favorite part was when Greg mentioned how Matt and Andrew don’t talk, and Andrew quickly responds, “We can’t…” Greatness. The show is still great, it’s just once in a long while someone comes along that actually has so little personality, are so unable to just relax and go with the flow, they just come across as completely clueless. I know Greg’s real funny, but he seems to have a problem interacting with other people. sorry, rant over.
May 14th, 2009 at 11:13 am
This episode had me laughing more in the first 20 minutes than in a long time. It was interesting to have the table turned on Jimmy and hitting all of his own comments about being rejected by LA and having to do a podcast in a shopping mall. Thank God Jimmy said they were friends because I feared during the break he would go to that disgusting bathroom and hang himself.
May 14th, 2009 at 12:47 pm
For a second I thought Greg’s reference to “sitting next to a two-door filing cabinet” was another dig at Matt. Still think that’s a decent insult for a boring guy. Not that Matt’s boring, but yeah.
May 14th, 2009 at 12:47 pm
Mr. Pardo - Avoiding phone conversations. Never forget slydial.com
That references the first 10 minutes of the podcast. I am struggling with this one.
May 14th, 2009 at 1:45 pm
great podcast - hope he becomes a regular
May 14th, 2009 at 1:53 pm
The episode was funny, and it was engaging to listen to. I definitely like the idea of NNF trying new things, and I hope they go even further with that intention.
May 14th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
>For a second I thought Greg’s reference to “sitting next to a two-door filing cabinet” was >another dig at Matt.
——————-
See? ANOTHER reason to drop the $5 and subscribe to the video! PLUS, in this episode, Andrew keeps gives us a few extra seconds more than the audio, so we can see Greg fall on the floor and hear what he says to Jimmy after the close of the show.
May 14th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
(er… strike “keeps”)
May 14th, 2009 at 3:18 pm
Having a hard time with this episode - although I just made it to the part where Mr. Pardo makes it clear that they “give each other a hard time” - I am still finding this episode pretty abrasive to listen to … its not so much that he is talking nonstop, that can work (see Mr. Francis) its that he isn’t really giving anyone anything to respond to. I very much like the comparison to Mr. Dwyer.
Give me an Auckerman anyday of the week. Casual conversations - the stuff on Mr. Pardo’s last night of drinking was amazing stuff.
@Darryl - Love the loyalty, but obviously anyone posting on this Pardcast message boards is already a pretty loyal, hardcore follower and must have solid reasons for not re-upping to the video. For me, I only can listen on my commute to work so video really wouldn’t be conducive to my lifestyle.
May 14th, 2009 at 3:19 pm
@Darryl - If I got the video pardcast my car would be found in a ditch with the back tire wheels spinning.
May 14th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
I shall beat the “get the video” drum until my least breath. Or until I decide to stop.
And you’re suggesting that the video is not worth risking death in nasty crash? Pffff!
May 14th, 2009 at 4:09 pm
Please don’t have him back, I did laugh out loud a couple times but I really felt like greg didn’t get the feeling of the show, matt and andrew hardly said anything the whole time.
May 14th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
Percentage of time talked on this show:
Fitszimmons - 80%
Jimmy - 10
AK - 8
matt - 2
It was funny but not one of the greatest guests - not what this show has been in EVERY OTHER EPISODE. Still good but not on the top 20 list.
May 14th, 2009 at 5:36 pm
I for one did not care for Mr. Fitzsimmons appearing as a guest on a gentleman’s podcast and insulting his host so liberally. A little too much, for me. I say it’s time for Dave Holmes to come in and clean things up.
May 14th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
I fully understand that Greg wasn’t being serious while insulting Jimmy, Matt, or the show, but it still wasn’t funny. If someone goes around insulting people all day and then says “just kidding,” it doesn’t make that guy funny. This was probably the worst episode ever aside from episode 60. I have to say Greg had about three great lines, but I hope he joins 40YOB in the never asked back club or becomes one of those risky guests who are joined by Pat whenever they’re on.
May 14th, 2009 at 5:54 pm
+1 to Paul. It’s a miss, for me.
May 14th, 2009 at 6:21 pm
+2 to Paul! I totally got Greg’s humor - I didn’t think he was just being a jerk. And I think he’s a funny guy. I like his stand up. He just wasn’t funny *here*. He didn’t fit with the flow, and everyone in that room knew it. The show has definitely become an ensemble, and the lack of interaction with Matt and AK in this episode was glaring. I too hope they don’t ask Greg back, but I wish him the best of luck.
May 14th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
I loved this episode and I like that NNF is willing to try something new. I don’t pretend to tell JP who he should invite on his own damn show, but if Greg shows up again, I’m definitely going to listen. Hilarious.
May 14th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
un-com-for-táb-le
I enjoy guests taking their shots at Jimmy, but GF forgot to add any funny to it. I’m always up to hear a non-regular on the show - though maybe we should wait a few more seasons for him again. Let’s bring back Oliver to lighten the mood!
May 14th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
People that say “trying somethingnew” what exactly do you mean?
give me 5 funny lines.
May 14th, 2009 at 9:09 pm
When I watched the video I felt like many on here, uncomfortable and felt like Greg missed what the show was about.
Second time through just listening to it, you can tell Greg is just playing it up and I found it hilarious. Sure it was different than former NNF guests, but trying something new isn’t always bad.
May 14th, 2009 at 9:52 pm
Wreck of the Gregmund Fitzsimmons – easiest thing to do in the world. One with the consensus here about this episode being a bit off, though I did enjoy the “give it a good name for traction” talk from Greg.
How ‘bout an aforementioned Schwaba in season 5…? Oh and Jimmy please bring up Kevin Trudeau with Pat next time he’s on the Cast.
May 14th, 2009 at 10:01 pm
This is an episode that has layers to it. It needs to be replayed to be fully understood. I will admit that I hadn’t heard this much of Fitzsimmons ever. Everyone appeared uncomfortable, but perhaps it was planned that way in a pre-show meeting. Who knows?
Greg should get another appearance in season six.
I don’t think he should be in the “never be asked back” club.
A previous post said the 40YOB is in that club. My feeling is that the 40YOB has moved on to other things. He shouldn’t have to worry about being asked back. I wish him the best of luck. Thank you and good night.
May 14th, 2009 at 10:55 pm
Hmm, not sure what to think of this episode. I guess it was a nice change of pace. An episode like that is good about once a season (hint, hint).
May 15th, 2009 at 1:03 am
I haven’t seen the video yet, but this episode might be the one that makes me cough up the extra five bucks. I really want to see the expressions on Jimmy and Matt’s faces. If they enjoyed it, then they should have him back. I happen to think Mr. Fitzsimmons is a really funny guy. It might have helped if he had listened to a couple episodes before coming on (which, by the way, should be obvious). He did a great job of doing what he thought he was expected to do. In any case, I laughed my ass off when I stopped trying to get “behind the scenes” to figure out what the hell was going on. BTW, when Matt and Andrew did finally chime in, it was pretty damn good.
May 15th, 2009 at 2:02 am
Love NNF. Have listened to every episode. Had never heard of Greg before the show. He’s okay, comedically but
all in all he didn’t play that well in the show. He never let up. With Pat, it’s part of his shtick. The other guys do get to get a word in with him. Greg just wouldn’t let up. Yeah, it is an ensemble. I am not going to say that he shouldn’t be back on again, though.
When they have the female comedians on, like Maria Bamford, I really enjoyed it. That is the change of pace that others aforementioned on the board. I can see that they are trying different stuff, like Judge Jimmy, Truth or Dare. I respect their efforts at trying to make improvements. A great podcast, NNF, right? Gotta love it. Bring back Pat, Paul Gilmartin, and Graham Elwood!
May 15th, 2009 at 2:56 am
Oh, wait a minute. Listened to the cast til the end. I changed my mind. I wouldn’t have Greg back.
Uncomfortable to say that least.
May 15th, 2009 at 4:50 am
I totally agree with Marvin and Mike. After watching the video once, I thought it was super uncomfortable (with a few laugh out loud moments). But after only listening to it the second time through, I found it much more funny. But even with the improvement the second time around, I have to say that it’s not in my top 20 episodes. I just thought many parts of it dragged on, which I have very rarely felt in the past four seasons. I love Greg’s comedy, but like others have said, just didn’t work as well in this ensemble. I’m not saying that I don’t want him back though (as if I was the one who makes that decision!). And I was impressed that Greg actually had an interesting sock story! Well done, sir!
May 15th, 2009 at 5:51 am
… and so it begins. The so-called devoted all of a sudden become the arbiters of humour for everyone else. Well I say enough Sir! There is room for cracker and Negro, for beauty and beast, for Francis and Fitzsimmons….. Why can’t we all just get along?
May 15th, 2009 at 5:56 am
Is that you Pastor Pinder?
May 15th, 2009 at 7:02 am
But you know, Jesse Thorn is new to the show too, and he was funny.
May 15th, 2009 at 7:42 am
Maybe Greg shouldn’t have taken so much adderol before hand. Then he might have slowed it down and let other people talk too.
May 15th, 2009 at 8:20 am
Well, I think this episode is not what I expect from NNF, but it wasn’t terrible.
Jimmy, your Cameo pull at the end of the video made me laugh harder than anything in the rest of the show.
May 15th, 2009 at 9:16 am
What’s with all the bitching on here? Just deal with it. There’s only 51 more episodes in the next year, I’m sure one of them will be up to everyone’s standards.
NNF shouldn’t have to cater to the whims of everyone, it is what it is.
May 15th, 2009 at 9:48 am
God that was a great episode. Have laughed out loud to the show in a long time. Great job guys.
May 15th, 2009 at 9:53 am
Good news. Even if you discount this episode and pretended it never existed, we still get a hell of a deal:
19.99 divided by 25 = 0.7996 an episode.
May 15th, 2009 at 10:52 am
Craigslist Hall of Fame! http://sidewayspony.com/pictures/57825
(Thanks to @therealmcavoy for finding this and posting it on Twitter)
May 15th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
please wait another five seasons to have him back. thanks.
May 15th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Wow, look at the back and forth. Oh man! This is intense.
May 15th, 2009 at 12:47 pm
Sorry, just not a fan of this episode. And the distinction between Bil Dwyer and Greg is that Bil is actually hilarious. Thumbs down, Mr. Pardo, it was a good experiment but let’s move on and bring back some people who understand the show. And by understand the show I mean not make me regret spending money on it.
May 15th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
I think it’s fascinating how many people are complaining about how much Fitzsimmons disrupted the “usual” interplay among Jimmy, Matt and Andrew. I think that one of NNF’s only real weaknesses is the “sameness” of some of the shows: the repetition of not-terribly-funny inside jokes that only long-term listeners will get, the frequent rehashing of Jimmy’s musical obsessions, multiple repetitions of character quirks like Jimmy’s haircut obsession, his hatred of cooking smells, etc.
If you didn’t think he was funny, you didn’t think he was funny … sense of humor is a subjective thing, after all. I can’t support the argument that the fact that it was different was a strike against it, though … things really DO need to get more shaken up around the NNF headquarters, and more frequently, so they don’t start treading water and end up with a long rambly nothing like some other podcasts I could mention.
May 15th, 2009 at 2:55 pm
For some reason, the way he said, “…wrapping your hand around a dick” made me laugh out loud.
I generally like the episode and would recommend (if you haven’t already done so) at least a second listen for those that didn’t like it so much. There is some funny to be enjoyed. It’s just a shame Matt and Andrew weren’t much a part of the conversation. That part of it did kinda suck.
May 15th, 2009 at 5:11 pm
I am amazed at the number of repeat listeners. Makes me suprised that we don’t have websites dedicated to screen caps of the videocast reviewing any possible eastereggs.
I love change - Pat Francis yells and screams and does not “come up for air,” but he is friendly and enjoyable. This guy just made me angry.
May 16th, 2009 at 6:05 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQ7×6way2-M
I stumbled across the video and found it entertaining for anyone with 5 minutes to spare.
And yeah, greg made it feel as though it was an interview for him…it started to become annoying listening to it.
Not trying to be negative because i’m all for new guests, but in past seasons, new additions understood what was going on and fit in right away.
May 16th, 2009 at 4:00 pm
>Makes me suprised that we don’t have websites dedicated to screen caps of the videocast reviewing any possible eastereggs.
Be patient, I’m workin’ on it!
May 16th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
Here’s My Two Cents, Usually I Use This Podcast To Sooth Me Enough To Where I Am Comfortable To Sleep, Greg Is One Of Those Rare Episodes Where It’s The Greatest To Listen To In The Mornings To Get Me Energized.
The Energy Presented Is As Much As A Dwyer And A Francis. I Knew Greg Was Giving A Hard Time For The Hell Of It, And Sometimes I Worry He Is For Real, That Is What Makes This Episode So Memorable.
The Vibe Of Greg Is A Rebuttal To The Character Of A Pardo, Which Makes Me Feel Like Pardo Is A Struggling And Forceful Belknap, Which Is Great To Hear, If You Put It That Way Where Greg Is Jimmy And Jimmy Is Matt, Some People Will Go “It’s The Same Sh*t”
With That Said, People Are Complaining Because They Aren’t Use To That Kind Of Switch Or Maybe Not Liking Sarcastic Humor As Much As I Do. Yes Risky But No Not On The Do Not Come Back List. Just Like Salts And Oils In A Diet, Have Sparingly
May 17th, 2009 at 8:43 am
Again, love people giving each other a hard time. I just felt like no conversations got off the ground.
May 17th, 2009 at 8:46 am
loved it.
May 17th, 2009 at 8:59 am
@JBel To get me energized in the mornings I’ll just continue to listen to Andrew W.K.
May 17th, 2009 at 9:39 am
i wonder how many of us subscribers listen to the episodes more than once. i’ll admit that greg had a slightly different vibe than most guests, but i think in repeat listens it really isn’t *so* different from a typical episode of nnf. and i think jimmy did a good job of making it clear that him and greg were friends, and if you understand that, then all of the ribbing fits in well with the show.
admittedly there was a lot less from andrew and (especially) matt (whose line about the show starting once he stopped shitting on them was one of the best), but i think greg is a great new addition to the roster, and i can’t wait to hear him on the cast again!
May 17th, 2009 at 10:16 am
I am definitely a re-listener. I just listened to 410 with Andy Richter this morning, it’s one of my favorites.
May 17th, 2009 at 3:57 pm
@JBel Was that entire post also the title of a book?
May 17th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
I think it’s to compete with John Hodgman’s book titles.
May 17th, 2009 at 9:12 pm
I get it. I loved it.
And even if you didn’t care for it, let’s not even think about calling it the worst episode ever. On a scale of 1 to 3,000, they’ve all been above 2,800, except for the Heffron episode. That one, of course, was a -4.
May 17th, 2009 at 9:27 pm
awkward…I actually considered turning it off. I know Jimmy and Fitz know one another but I don’t really give a shit. I don’t care about the “flow” of the show I just didn’t like it. I’m still a primo listener and will continue to be one. No biggy, keep up the good work fellas, I’ll be curious to see if Fitz comes back on and what that episode will be like… -4 on a scale from 1 to 3,000 (probably the best line from the show).
May 18th, 2009 at 6:24 am
I didn’t think there was anything wrong with the initial berating (or whatever you’d like to call it) of the show in the first 20. That seems to be what most people are reacting negatively to. But what grated on me was the discussion about not being in the tone of the show or GF not being in on the idea of the show. I’m sure that they went over the format and style of the show beforehand, so I don’t understand the need to discuss what the show is supposed to be “on air” when we the listener already knows it. Brought the show to a screeching halt for me.
That being said, everyone deserves a mulligan, and maybe Fitzy’s next go round won’t be as polarizing.
May 18th, 2009 at 8:29 am
I for one enjoyed this cast and I enjoyed old Fitzy on it.
May 18th, 2009 at 12:56 pm
this guy was a total douche and ruined to show. i applaud Jimmy and Matt for trying to keep Fitz in check but he was insulting and rude to those of us in showbiz, please to not have this a-hole on again. he was rude to Jimmy, the host of the show and insulted Matt and Andrew to there faces. what a bad episode.
May 18th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
I’m on board with those who were not a fan of Fitzsimmons on this show. It was obvious he didn’t really get what the show was about when he was referring to it repeatedly as an “interview”. He also kept trying to insert bits, etc. What it came down to for me was that his stuff just wasn’t funny. Jimmy, Matt, and Andrew each had a few good one-liners but since they didn’t get much change to get a word in edgewise, they were few and far between.
Changing it up and trying new things is fine. In my opinion it just didn’t work out with this guy.
Of course I’ll be back and I’m not at all disappointed with Jimmy and the gang for having him on. You never really know what you’re going to get until you have someone down and on the blue mic. This guest should maybe just be reconsidered before a repeat return is requested.
May 18th, 2009 at 3:54 pm
Great episode!. I’ve *watched* it 3 times, and I think that is the key; this one needs to be watched. The expressions on JP’s and MB’s faces (AK, nice work with the 1’s and 2’s) at the times when it looks like they might have lost control of the show are great. And AK’s off-camera giggles (I think he was hoping things might go more sideways) made me giggle along with him.
Get the video.
May 18th, 2009 at 6:46 pm
@Zaner27
Prefer Talk In The Morning, Usually I Listen To ESPN Radio, Anything Ozzy (Mostly Sabbath) Or A Pat Francis Episode. It’s A Build Up Mood.
No Comment On Title Of Book Comment
May 18th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
BTW, Fav Quotes So Far
501 - “Who Are You Fuckin” - Matt
502 - “She Was H-O-T Attractive” - JP
503 - “Y’all Got Claims To Fame?” - Matt
504 - “Yeah Man I Am As High As A Kite” - Matt
JP - Everytime I See You Album Pic On My MP3, I Laugh Like An Idiot To This Day, Love It
Matt - Keep Going Man, Getting Hot Again Like Season Three, But Better.
AK47 - STAY ON MIC, Want To Hear More Stories And Hate Shoes On Bed.
May 18th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
Well, I listened to this on my 10 mile run and I’ll say it made the run seem longer than it should have. Wasn’t terrible, just was not the type of flow that I like. I’m willing to give it another chance, but I’d prefer a different feel. Surprising I actually Liked Dwyer’s episode but not this one. Weird.
May 18th, 2009 at 11:10 pm
I don’t understand the comparisons to Dwyer. Maybe they both seem like they’re in their own worlds, but I feel like what Bil does is genius at best, and playful at worst. He’s my favorite guest, now that I think about it.
May 19th, 2009 at 9:26 am
Patrick,
Can you elaborate on that a bit more?
(so that we hit 80 comments)
May 19th, 2009 at 9:43 am
I enjoyed this ep (Matt’s time travel line was hilarious) but it’s not the one I would present to, say, a Johnny Carson.
May 19th, 2009 at 11:16 am
Alright, only to light the message board on fire …
Greg Fitzsimmons is worse then Hitler
May 19th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
I don’t know what I enjoyed more, Fitzsimmons or all the people he made angry. We need to have him on again, and soon!
May 19th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
It has all kind of been said at this point, but I’ll throw in my two cents anyway. I just finished listening/watching the episode for the second time, because I really wanted to see if I just wasn’t in a good mood watching it the first time around, but I can now fairly say that it wasn’t me. Ultimately, there is always at least one clunker of an episode every season, and I think it can safely be said that this is it for season five. Simply put, this episode is actually fairly boring, and I think it’s because Greg does not allow anyone to say anything; what Greg talks about is dull and uninteresting, but because he has his own radio program, he felt he needed to have control on NNF as well.
Comments above have made comparisons between Greg and Bill Dwyer, in regards to nonstop talking, but the difference between Bill and Greg is that Bill still comes across as pleasant and has funny things to say. Also, in regards to other comments about NNF trying something new, I have to disagree, I don’t think it was Jimmy’s and Matt’s intention to try something new with Greg; I think they believed he would fit in just like a Graham Elwood or Scott Aukerman. Having Jesse Thorn on, that was trying something new, and it worked.
I’ve seen Fitzsimmons standup, and he can be funny, but he’s just a little too bitter/angry in his persona; he drifts a little too far into what I like to call “Dom Irrera territory,” basically more rants, less laughs. End result, if he is on the show again, I just won’t watch that episode.
May 19th, 2009 at 1:23 pm
I’ve been watching this one at work. It’s average in my opinion. I probably won’t listen to it again, but it probably doesn’t seem as great because the bar has been so high this season so far. I don’t have too many episodes that I don’t find funny, but this one is not up to the standard in my opinion.
@ AirJordan
My son has ADD and although Aderall is a form of speed, it counteracts impulses in the brain and actually slows down their impulses and improves concentration. So if he hadn’t taken the extra pill, you may have hated the episode even more. If I took a pill I’d be wired, but it helps people who acually need it.
OK, PSA over, I’m ready for a new episode to make me laugh on the way to work
May 19th, 2009 at 3:28 pm
Loved this episode. Loved it. The awkward. The discomfort. The funny. Great stuff. And I am completely amazed at the polarizing effect it’s had on the listeners. Variety is the spice of life people! We’re all snowflakes, and I appreciate that NNF took the time to showcase a different kind of snowflake.
The kind of snowflake that apparently makes people say “Fuck this snow.”
Loved it.
May 19th, 2009 at 4:25 pm
I really enjoyed the Greg Fitzsimmons episode. I thought that he brought a great energy and a challenge to the guys on the pardcast. Very entertaining. It was nice to have someone different on. Excellent work.
May 19th, 2009 at 9:36 pm
Watching 506 and I needed to put my two cents in. Greg Fitzsimmons was awesome. Please have him back sometime.
May 20th, 2009 at 3:36 am
That is so crazy that people were mad at this show. The show is having guests play musical chairs with the seat and their character. Jimmy is the music and Matt knows how to broadcast him around the world, in the process humor has radiated off of Jimmy, Jimmys sweet melody has taken Matt over and has blossomed him. Their are rules and everyone fits: how will you make Jimmy and Matt react (kinda why, though he has some gems and i really do like him, i don’t think andrew fits on mic. he should be a force that jimmy keeps talking about. but, growth and change so blah blah blah). This was a perfect episode and meta wonder; i love when they talk about the show. if you thought this was bad, suck a muffler.
May 20th, 2009 at 3:40 am
Oh my god I’m so sorry I didn’t capitalize Andrews name. Excuse me, no disrespect meant.
May 20th, 2009 at 8:20 am
“The show is having guests play musical chairs with the seat and their character. Jimmy is the music and Matt knows how to broadcast him around the world, in the process humor has radiated off of Jimmy, Jimmys sweet melody has taken Matt over and has blossomed him.”
I guess we know what ecstasy does now.
May 20th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
I hardly ever use this, but, literally: LOL!
Dewwwwwwwd…
May 20th, 2009 at 3:27 pm
Good lord, Mr. Fitzsimmons really stirred the pot, didn’t he? … Well, from my end, all I can say is, keep it coming. Love the variety, the weirdness, the volleying; everything that makes me willing to pay for it every well. Was it my favorite episode or was Greg my favorite guest? No, but as my co-workers and I like to say, “They can’t all be FAWs (Fucking Award Winners).” Still, it always seems to live up to the NNF title. Jimmy, you’re one of a kind. Matt, you’re hilarious and your timing is impeccable. AK, please keep talking. And Greg, I gotsa know: Why is a grown-ass man — married with children, no less — still getting into fistfights?!? If we’re taking that train, I hope sometime maybe you’ll have Schmidt back on.
Great stuff, gentlemen. Thanks for the escape.
May 20th, 2009 at 7:26 pm
You don’t like it? Don’t fucking listen to it.
May 21st, 2009 at 5:51 am
Wow…I had no idea of the ire raised by this episode until it was brought up on the Varney ep. I liked what Fitzsimmons brought to the table and it was interesting to hear Jimmy get Jimmy-ed on his own show, but hey I also love Dwyer as a guest, so whatever.
Keep your chins up, boys, the show’s great.
-JG
May 21st, 2009 at 10:59 am
Also had no idea that people were so strongly anti-Fitzsimmons until they mentioned it on this week’s show. Thought I’d come and drop a pro-Fitzsimmons vote. I think it was hilarious to hear somebody who can come on and give Jimmy a run for his money …which seems pretty hard to do.
FITZSIMMONS: YES [x] NO [ ]
May 21st, 2009 at 6:38 pm
@Josh That is a bold, tough statement for an essentially anonymous message board.
May 21st, 2009 at 7:21 pm
I’ve been on board since Season 1 and the Fitzsimmons episode is my favorite in recent history. It was a very welcome change of pace. Please have more fresh faces like Fitzsimmons and Jesse Thorn.
FITZSIMMONS: YES [x] NO [ ]
May 22nd, 2009 at 6:46 am
Just watched it last night and I did like it for the most part. Greg must have thought it was really an interview rather than a “conversation”, and he seems to be giving his views on topics straightfowardly more than trying to be funny about them. Indeed, it was not NNF-esque, but I will agree that sometimes things need a change. However, I missed Matt’s contribution to the show.
I find it ironic how we have Janet Varney right after this episode. Maybe they were losing a lot of subscribers. I started watching her episode right after and it felt like being home again. Hilarious, couldn’t stop laughing.
May 22nd, 2009 at 10:19 am
I liked it…ball busting is funny
May 22nd, 2009 at 10:20 am
also i’m surprised he didn’t ask Jimmy why Demitri Martin is starring in a major motion picture…
May 22nd, 2009 at 10:21 am
99 dreams I have had,
And every one, a red balloon.
It’s all over and I’m standing pretty,
In this dust that was a city.
If I could find a souvenir,
just to prove the world was here.
And here is a red balloon,
I think of you, and let it go…
May 22nd, 2009 at 10:22 am
way to ruin everything tom
May 22nd, 2009 at 10:35 am
when i saw that trailer i imagined jimmy shooting his tv like elvis
May 22nd, 2009 at 6:34 pm
Loved this episode.
May 26th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
Well, 24 of us are wrong.
May 28th, 2009 at 8:44 am
Wow - shocked that so many folks listening regularly to such a fast and hip podcast could be so dim. Fitzsimmons was hysterical. So damn fast and clever and perfectly in sync with Jimmy. One of the best NNF shows ever. Bring him back soon!
May 28th, 2009 at 8:52 am
Second listen through and it is better than the first, but still not a fan. Not that Fitzsimmon isn’t a funny guy or the show is going downhill, just a miss for me. Will be one of those that I’ll skip over if I’m looking for something to listen to.
June 3rd, 2009 at 1:41 am
Late to the comments due to time-zone delay in South Africa.
Never heard of Greg Fitzsimmons before, but the dude is funny. And the episode worked.
Also want to mention that I recently saw the Last Comic Standing ep (time-zone delay) where Jimmy got cut.
He gave the camera a real heartbreaking look - like the cat in Shrek. Now that’s emoting.
Hollywood is bound to call soon Jimmy.
Cheers.
June 5th, 2009 at 8:00 pm
Great episode. I’d love to see Fitzsimmons back on.
June 6th, 2009 at 10:46 am
After listening to the preceding episodes I was expecting a train wreck. It was hilarious. Anyone that doesn’t get it should go back to the Morning Zoo.
June 10th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
A great episode, I laughed out loud more for this one than for any other season 5 show. I enjoyed Greg keeping Jimmy on his heels for much of this. I loved the frenetic pace — and look forward to his next appearance!
June 13th, 2009 at 4:51 pm
I loved it ~ it was fast moving & very clever. I am truly surprised at some of the comments, and read some before I had a chance to listen to the show. ah. well.
June 18th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
Loved this episode. Ab-so-lute-ly loved it. Has to be one of my favorites in 5 seasons. I laughed out loud at parts.
June 25th, 2009 at 7:33 am
How are so many people missing how great this episode was. It was like having two pardo’s on. I have never been a huge fitz fan but after this show I am. Great episode. Fitz came in and started busting his friends balls, ( that is what this show is supposed to be ) hope you have him back soon. This episode is right there with Jon Hamm as the top episode of new “primo” seasons. Keep it up guys
June 26th, 2009 at 12:18 pm
Mixed emotions — I don’t always like Jimmy’s bully-bashing on people (Pat, Andrew) because I forget its his “character”, not himself, but I liked this episode because I felt Jimmy could handle himself and Fitzsimmons was funny. Fitzsimmons’ energy really mixed things up and made it clearly Jimmy’s show (his show to defend, perhaps).
I’m going to listen again.
September 2nd, 2009 at 9:59 pm
I have listebed to this episode three times and it gets funnier every time. God I love this show!!!
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October 27th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
late to the game, but had to listen. greg f. was/is an asshole, pure and simple. insulting jimmy can be kind of funny, but it was very unprofessional for him to constantly insult matt and AK-47. unacceptable. i would listen to a podcast with just jimmy, matt and andrew any day. hell, even just AK and Matt.
May 10th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
listening to old episodes, still trying to catch up to real time but I’ve heard every episode so far and this is right up there as top 5 funniest so far. Loved it!
May 26th, 2010 at 8:00 am
Easily a top 5 episode. I understand how people might not get it because it was such a bold, conceptual pay on Greg’s part. Greg does this with almost everybody, but its never been funnier than here because of Jimmy’s reaction. It reminds me alot of the Ricky Gervais - Garry Shandling interview. What makes it work is one side refuses to let the other side fully in on the joke, so they are constantly second guessing what is happening.
July 12th, 2010 at 9:16 am
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