Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me: Arden Cho, K-Mart & Olympic Predictions

The February 14, 2026, edition of NPR’s weekly news quiz, Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me!, featured actress Arden Cho as the “Not My Job” guest. The show, recorded in Chicago, was hosted by Negin Farsad, with Bill Kurtis serving as judge and scorekeeper, and panelists Tom Papa, Paula Poundstone, and Beth Stelling contributing to the discussion.

A Blend of Current Events and Pop Culture

This week’s broadcast covered a range of topics, from a “Laser Party in Texas” and an “Olympic Cheating Scandal” to offering “Romance Advice for this Weekend.” The show’s format, as always, included segments like “Who’s Bill This Time,” “Bluff The Listener,” and “Panel Questions,” providing a mix of humor and insightful commentary on current events.

“Not My Job” Segment: Arden Cho Tackles K-Mart Trivia

The highlight of the show for many listeners is the “Not My Job” segment, where a celebrity is challenged to answer questions related to a field outside their expertise. This week, Arden Cho, known for her role in Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters, faced questions specifically about K-Mart. The segment, playfully titled “KPop Demon Hunters, meet K-Mart Bargain Hunters,” tested Cho’s knowledge of the now largely defunct retail chain.

Panel Discussions: From Airplane Etiquette to Spy Drones

Beyond the “Not My Job” segment, the panelists delved into a variety of contemporary issues. Discussions included the evolving etiquette of air travel – a topic ripe for debate – and a more unusual subject: Russia’s alleged use of “Pooping Spy Drones.” The show also featured Bill Kurtis’s signature limericks, offering a humorous take on recent news headlines, including verses about a rescue (“Who Rescued Ew!”), a dairy product (“A Double D Cup of Butter”), and fast-food indulgence (“Getting Fancy At McDonald’s”).

Filling the Gaps and Looking Ahead

The “Lightning Fill In The Blank” segment addressed news stories that didn’t fit neatly into other parts of the show, providing a rapid-fire recap of additional headlines. Looking ahead, the panelists offered predictions about the biggest story to emerge from the final week of the Olympic Games, a timely discussion given the ongoing competition in Milan/Cortina.

The Enduring Appeal of a News Quiz

Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me! continues to be a popular fixture on NPR, blending news analysis with comedic relief. The show’s success lies in its ability to make current events accessible and engaging, while also showcasing the wit and intelligence of its hosts and panelists. The format, which challenges participants to distinguish between real news and fabricated stories, encourages critical thinking and a healthy skepticism towards information sources.

The show’s enduring appeal is also reflected in its availability across multiple platforms, including NPR’s website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, and YouTube. A playlist of past episodes is available on YouTube, allowing listeners to catch up on previous broadcasts and explore the show’s extensive archive.

The February 14th broadcast, with Arden Cho’s participation, exemplifies the show’s consistent ability to deliver a unique and entertaining take on the week’s news. The combination of celebrity guests, sharp wit, and insightful commentary ensures that Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me! remains a compelling listen for news enthusiasts and comedy fans alike.