Josh Radnor

Shows

Episodes

  1. How We Didn't Meet the Goat | S3E17 "The Goat"

    3d ago

    How We Didn't Meet the Goat | S3E17 "The Goat"

    Josh and Craig revisit Season 3, Episode 17, “The Goat,” which, despite its title and Future Ted’s spectacularly unreliable memory, is really about the breakup of Ted and Barney’s friendship after Barney sleeps with Robin. They dig into Barney’s guilt, Marshall’s attempt to find a loophole in the sacred Bro Code, Ted’s surprisingly brutal reaction, and the growing connection between Barney and Robin that had been quietly building throughout the season. Craig recalls why the writers decided to make such a huge story move in Season 3 and how the frantic post-WGA-strike schedule pushed them to take some of the show’s biggest creative swings. They also talk about friendship breakups being every bit as painful as romantic ones, the creation of the real-life bestselling Bro Code, Barney’s mysterious job, the goat story that technically hasn’t happened yet, and the show’s fascination with memory and time. Plus, longtime second second AD Chris Hissong looks back on nine seasons of wrangling the enormous and often insane background action of How I Met Your Mother. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  2. How We Revertigo'd to the Mall | S3E16 "Sandcastles in the Sand"

    Aug 31

    How We Revertigo'd to the Mall | S3E16 "Sandcastles in the Sand"

    Josh and Craig revisit “Sandcastles in the Sand,” exploring the very real phenomenon of “revertigo,” Robin’s transformation around her gloriously awful ex-boyfriend Simon, and James Van Der Beek’s hilarious, deeply committed performance. Cobie Smulders shares memories of filming the star-studded music video with Van Der Beek, Alan Thicke, and Tiffany, while Craig reveals the surprisingly emotional story behind writing the song—with help from his one-year-old son, Elliot. Plus: the origins of “Murder Train,” the introduction of Punchy, Robin and Barney’s shared emotional armor, and the kiss that launches the final stretch of Season 3.Listen to HOW I MET YOUR MUSIC on Apple Music or Spotify. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  3. How We Met Bob Odenkirk | S3E15 "The Chain of Screaming"

    Aug 24

    How We Met Bob Odenkirk | S3E15 "The Chain of Screaming"

    Josh and Craig revisit Season 3’s “The Chain of Screaming,” an episode about work, money, dignity, and the question of whether we pass anger down the line or choose to break the cycle. Then they’re joined by the great Bob Odenkirk, who looks back on playing Artillery Arthur, explains how a HIMYM scheduling conflict inadvertently helped lead to the creation of Mike Ehrmantraut on Breaking Bad, and remembers being genuinely surprised by the warmth and enthusiasm of the HIMYM set. The conversation expands into creativity and the value of limitations, why writers are always working even when they appear to be doing nothing, Spielberg’s love of problem-solving on set, and Bob’s evolution from comedy into drama. They also talk candidly about fame, ambition, knowing when “more” isn’t necessarily better, and parenthood—including Bob’s moving reflections on missing the years when his children were young and recognizing the rare moments when grown children are ready to hear a little hard-earned wisdom from their dad. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  4. Flashback: Howwww We Met Ted | S1E1 "Pilot"

    5d ago

    Flashback: Howwww We Met Ted | S1E1 "Pilot"

    For everyone who has found How We Made Your Mother in the last few weeks, maybe from our episodes with Sarah Chalke and Bob Odenkirk, we just wanted to drop our original rewatch of the HIMYM pilot. And if you are enjoying this look back with Josh and Craig, please follow in your podcast app of choice and start from the very beginning.  Here are the O.G. show notes… This week, Josh Radnor and Craig Thomas kick off the official rewatch of the PILOT episode of How I Met Your Mother! They reflect on the origin of the series, the narrative complexity of the show’s storytelling, and the way the pilot sets up the entire series—from Ted’s romantic optimism to Barney’s legendary schemes. They also revisit memories from filming, discuss the impact of the show’s themes on fans, and answer the big question: If they could rename the first episode, what would it be? CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  5. How We March Madness’d | S3E14 "The Bracket"

    Aug 17

    How We March Madness’d | S3E14 "The Bracket"

    Josh and Craig welcome writer Joe Kelly for a lively look back at “The Bracket,” Joe’s very first How I Met Your Mother episode. They reminisce about Joe joining the staff just before the Writers Guild strike, the frantic race to restart production afterward, and how the episode evolved into one of the show’s most memorable Barney stories. Joe reflects on learning to balance broad comedy with emotional storytelling—a lesson that later shaped Ted Lasso and Detroiters—while Craig and Josh discuss building the writers’ room, crafting Barney’s outrageous persona without losing audience sympathy, and turning a March Madness promotion into a mystery episode. They also dive into behind-the-scenes stories about the show’s collaborative writing process, memorable jokes, the creation of TedMosbyIsAJerk.com, and how the pressure of the post-strike schedule forced everyone to trust their instincts, resulting in one of Season 3’s funniest and most ambitious episodes. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  6. How We Met Sarah Chalke | S3E13 "Ten Sessions"

    Aug 10

    How We Met Sarah Chalke | S3E13 "Ten Sessions"

    Josh and Craig are joined by Sarah Chalke to revisit “Ten Sessions,” one of the series’ most beloved episodes, and the conversation is every bit as joyful as the episode itself. Sarah shares behind-the-scenes stories about being cast at the last minute, balancing Scrubs and How I Met Your Mother simultaneously, and filming the iconic two-minute date, while Josh and Craig reflect on emerging from the Writers Guild strike, welcoming Britney Spears to the show, and why the episode became such a perfect blend of inventive storytelling, heartfelt romance, and rapid-fire comedy. They also reminisce about the extraordinary chemistry that made Ted and Stella’s relationship work, celebrate the cast and crew’s intricate choreography behind the episode’s biggest moments, and explore why “Ten Sessions” remains one of the defining episodes of the series.  CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  7. How We Kissed The Blarney Stone | S3E12 "No Tomorrow"

    Aug 3

    How We Kissed The Blarney Stone | S3E12 "No Tomorrow"

    Josh and Craig return after the three-month Writers Guild strike to revisit “No Tomorrow,” reflecting on the frantic challenge of producing the back half of Season 3 and why this episode serves as a turning point for Ted. They discuss Ted’s attempt to embrace Barney’s carefree philosophy, the importance of consequences, and how Marshall’s heartfelt intervention reminds Ted—and the audience—who he really is. Along the way, they share personal stories about moments that forced them to reevaluate their own lives, celebrate the ingenious reveal of the yellow umbrella as Ted unknowingly takes his first real step toward meeting the Mother, and explore why How I Met Your Mother is ultimately a story about becoming the person you’re meant to be before finding the love you’re meant to have. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  8. How We Weren’t There | S3E11 "The Platinum Rule"

    Jul 27

    How We Weren’t There | S3E11 "The Platinum Rule"

    Josh and Craig revisit “The Platinum Rule,” one of the series’ most structurally ambitious episodes, while sharing the remarkable behind-the-scenes story of how it became the only How I Met Your Mother episode produced during the 2007 Writers Guild strike. They reflect on the unusual experience of shooting without writers on set, discuss the episode’s intricate “flashback within a flashback” storytelling, and explore whether some life lessons—especially about love and relationships—can only be learned through experience. Along the way, they celebrate memorable performances from Charlene Amoia, Kristen Schaal, and Hayes MacArthur, revisit Ted’s unwavering optimism, and close with two extraordinary listener letters that examine The Platinum Rule through the lenses of psychology, storytelling, and why the show continues to provide comfort and companionship years later. Listen to EMOTIONAL CHAMP by New Buffalo CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  9. How to Salute Your Mother | S3E9 "Slapsgiving"

    Jul 13

    How to Salute Your Mother | S3E9 "Slapsgiving"

    Josh and Craig revisit “Slapsgiving,” one of the series’ most beloved episodes, beginning with the latest—and perhaps fiercest yet—chapter in the battle between producer Alek Lev and his childhood best friend Joel over who truly invented the legendary “Major General” salute. (Alek did. He can say that now because he’s writing these show notes.) From there, they celebrate Matt Kuhn’s script, Orson Bean’s unforgettable guest performance as Bob, and how the episode balances outrageous comedy with genuine emotional stakes as Ted and Robin struggle to figure out whether they can really stay friends after their breakup. They also reflect on Jason Segel’s iconic “You Just Got Slapped” song, the episode’s many classic running gags, and how How I Met Your Mother created its own shared language that fans still use today. The episode closes with a thoughtful listener letter about how different characters resonate at different stages of life—from Barney in youth, to Ted while searching for love, to Marshall and Lily in marriage—highlighting the show’s remarkable ability to grow alongside its audience.   CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok.  READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE.  CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED. SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today. FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok. AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack.

  10. How We (Glass Shatters) | S3E8 "Spoiler Alert"

    Jul 6

    How We (Glass Shatters) | S3E8 "Spoiler Alert"

    Josh and Craig revisit “Spoiler Alert” (Season 3, Episode 8), breaking down the episode’s central idea: how one pointed-out flaw can permanently change the way you see someone. They discuss the ethics of telling friends uncomfortable truths, the surprisingly philosophical themes of love and acceptance, and how the episode’s two mysteries—Kathy’s endless talking and Marshall’s forgotten bar exam password—fit together so elegantly. Along the way, Josh reflects on feeling personally exposed by Ted’s “intellectual snob” characterization, Craig shares behind-the-scenes stories about Stephen Lloyd’s writing, Jason Segel’s improvised songs, and the episode’s memorable sound design, and the conversation closes with a thoughtful listener letter about why How I Met Your Mother has always felt like storytelling rooted in genuine care rather than simply making people laugh. And read WHY YOU WILL MARRY THE WRONG PERSON CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  11. How We Met the Mosby Boys | S3E7 "Dowisetrepla"

    Jun 29

    How We Met the Mosby Boys | S3E7 "Dowisetrepla"

    Josh and Craig dive into Season 3’s “Dowisetrepla” with a conversation that ranges from real estate disasters to the magic of New York City. They discuss how the episode serves as a continuation of Marshall and Lily’s financial crisis from the previous week, exploring Lily’s hidden credit card debt, the couple’s impulsive apartment purchase, and why the storyline feels so grounded and emotionally real. They praise Alyson Hannigan’s performance as a guilty, panicked Lily, reflect on the stresses of buying property, and share personal stories about their own New York apartments. The hosts also revisit Ted’s CSI-inspired detective work, Barney’s surprisingly dark apartment scheme, and the enduring appeal of the show’s uniquely New York mythology. Along the way, they celebrate writer Brenda Hsueh’s work on the episode and her later success at Pixar, reminisce about other HIMYM writers’ post-show accomplishments, and end with a listener letter about friendship, chosen family, and finding unexpected new chapters in life.   CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  12. How We Blah Blah [with Gloria Calderón Kellett] | S3E5 "How We Met Everyone Else"

    Jun 15

    How We Blah Blah [with Gloria Calderón Kellett] | S3E5 "How We Met Everyone Else"

    Josh and Craig are joined by writer and producer Gloria Calderón Kellett to discuss “How I Met Everyone Else,” one of the most mythology-rich episodes of the series. Gloria shares the origins of fan-favorite ideas like Blah Blah, the sandwich euphemism, the Hot/Crazy Scale, and the various “how we met” stories that flesh out the gang’s shared history. The conversation explores the episode’s use of Ted as an unreliable narrator, the challenge of building authentic long-term relationships through Marshall and Lily, and the many real-life experiences that inspired the show’s stories. They also reminisce about working with future filmmaking superstar Phil Lord, Abby Spencer’s memorable guest appearance, the early days of the writers’ room, and how HIMYM captured a generation’s experiences with friendship, dating, and growing up. The episode closes with a heartfelt listener letter about a mother who bonded with her sons through the show over many years, underscoring the lasting emotional impact of both the series and the podcast. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  13. Howwww We Met Ted | S1E1 "Pilot"

    03/24/2025

    Howwww We Met Ted | S1E1 "Pilot"

    This week, Josh Radnor and Craig Thomas kick off the official rewatch of the PILOT episode of How I Met Your Mother! They reflect on the origin of the series, the narrative complexity of the show’s storytelling, and the way the pilot sets up the entire series—from Ted’s romantic optimism to Barney’s legendary schemes. They also revisit memories from filming, discuss the impact of the show’s themes on fans, and answer the big question: If they could rename the first episode, what would it be? CONNECT WITH THE SHOW: Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages) Substack (Join the mailing list, get announcements, and read more from Josh and Craig) Instagram HOW YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Donate to our ongoing campaign to support congenital heart disease research AND MORE: Josh’s “Museletters” on Substack Josh’s Official Website Josh on Spotify Craig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing) Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: BetterHelp: How We Made Your Mother is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://betterhelp.com/yourmother Mint Mobile: If you like your money, Mint Mobile is for you. Shop plans at mintmobile.com/yourmother Advertising inquiries: hwmym@wearebv.com AND IN CASE IT HELPS: 03:10 Antidote to Loneliness 08:59 Character Dynamics and Relationships 15:03 The Hero's Journey of Ted Mosby 21:00 The Art of Storytelling in the Pilot 27:02 The Cinematic Quality of the Pilot 39:31 Editing and Narrative Structure 43:57 Character Development and Themes 49:22 Fan Reactions and Expectations 01:01:44 The Impact of the Show on Fans

  14. How We Met Your Models | S3E10 "The Yips"

    Jul 20

    How We Met Your Models | S3E10 "The Yips"

    Josh and Craig revisit “The Yips,” candidly reflecting on why they consider it one of the weaker episodes of the series while pulling back the curtain on the realities of making network television. They discuss how a corporate mandate to feature the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show shaped the story, why Barney’s crisis of confidence still offers an interesting glimpse into his past, and how production challenges—including last-minute recasting and enormous guest-star logistics—made for an unusual week on set. Along the way, they explore the balance between art and commerce, what gives How I Met Your Mother its emotional heart, and why even the episodes that don’t fully come together still reveal fascinating stories about how the series was made.  CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  15. How We Met NPH [with Neil Patrick Harris] | S2E20 "Showdown"

    Mar 16

    How We Met NPH [with Neil Patrick Harris] | S2E20 "Showdown"

    Josh and Craig are joined by Neil Patrick Harris to revisit How I Met Your Mother Season 2’s “Showdown,” the episode where Barney appears on The Price Is Right believing that host Bob Barker might be his father. Neil reflects on the lasting cultural impact of Barney Stinson, the freedom the show’s unusual hybrid format gave actors to experiment with comedy, and the physical-comedy influences—from Buster Keaton to Cirque du Soleil—that shaped his performance. The conversation dives into Barney’s mix of bravado and vulnerability, how the writers gradually revealed the emotional core beneath the suit, and why the character’s deep loyalty to his friends often drove the story more than his playboy antics. They also share memories of filming on the real Price Is Right set, discuss how the show’s early “on the bubble” years kept everyone creatively hungry, and explore the idea that the heightened moments of the series may represent Ted’s exaggerated memories rather than literal reality. And we end on HWMYM’s first… cliffhanger! CONNECT WITH THE SHOW: Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages) Instagram READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK: Subscribe HERE. CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE! Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED. SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH: Click HERE to learn more and donate today. FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES: Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPod Follow on TikTok AND MORE: Josh’s Official Website Josh on Spotify Craig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing) Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  16. How We Met Ted Mosby [with John Cho] | S3E6 "I'm Not That Guy"

    Jun 22

    How We Met Ted Mosby [with John Cho] | S3E6 "I'm Not That Guy"

    Josh and Craig dive into Season 3, Episode 6, “I’m Not That Guy,” and find a surprisingly rich episode hiding beneath the jokes. They discuss Jonathan Groff’s first credited HIMYM script (the writer, not the actor), Marshall’s struggle between environmental idealism and financial security, Lily’s secret credit-card debt and how unusual it was to make her the one in the wrong, and Ted’s bizarre discovery that a porn actor has adopted his name as a tribute. Along the way, they reflect on money as a real concern for twenty-somethings, the challenges of finding your path after college, Josh’s own early Hollywood setback, and the way HIMYM tried to let life continue from episode to episode instead of resetting every week. The episode also includes a bonus excerpt from a later interview with John Cho, who talks about playing the charmingly evil Jefferson Coatsworth, working without a studio audience, and why HIMYM’s dense joke-writing stood out. Craig also shares the real-life inspiration for Marshall’s environmental-law storyline, drawn from college friend Noah Garrison, while the episode opens and closes with emotional listener messages that lead to discussions of congenital heart disease research and Craig’s novel, That’s Not How It Happened. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  17. How I Met the Roof | S1E2 "Purple Giraffe"

    03/31/2025

    How I Met the Roof | S1E2 "Purple Giraffe"

    In this episode of How We Made Your Mother, Josh and Craig revisit How I Met Your Mother’s second episode, “Purple Giraffe.” They talk about the pressure of following up the pilot, the decision to structure the story around three parties, and how the show continued to play with time and storytelling. They also reflect on Ted’s optimism, his flaws, and what this episode reveals about his character. The episode includes behind-the-scenes stories about writing, editing, and production, including how the purple giraffe came to be and why the rooftop scene was so important. Josh shares what it was like navigating early fame, and his wife Jordana offers thoughtful insight into Ted’s emotional growth. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW: Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages) Substack (Join the mailing list, get announcements, and read more from Josh and Craig) Instagram HOW YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Donate to our ongoing campaign to support congenital heart disease research AND MORE: Josh’s “Museletters” on Substack Josh’s Official Website Josh on Spotify Craig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing) Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Surfshark: Go to https://surfshark.com/yourmother and use code YOURMOTHER for 4 extra months of Surfshark. Advertising inquiries: hwmym@wearebv.com AND IN CASE IT HELPS: 03:08 Creating Episode Two: Purple Giraffe 06:13 The Challenges of Writing a Second Episode 09:03 The Great Gatsby Influence 17:57 The Essence of Ted Mosby 20:49 Balancing Humor and Heart 35:16 The Art of Cinematic Storytelling 40:39 Ted's Journey: The Tug of War Between Control and Destiny 49:00 The Evolution of Ted: From Childish Dreams to Adult Realities 59:00 Audience Engagement and Community Connection

  18. How We Met John Cho | S3E06 "I'm Not That Guy"

    Jun 25 ·  Bonus

    How We Met John Cho | S3E06 "I'm Not That Guy"

    In this bonus episode, Josh and Craig finally get the chance to sit down with John Cho, who played the delightfully manipulative Jefferson Coatsworth in “I’m Not That Guy.” What starts as a discussion of his HIMYM guest appearance turns into a wide-ranging conversation about comedy, acting, and career longevity. John shares why he loved playing a charming villain, reflects on the unique rhythm of HIMYM’s writing and production style, and compares it to traditional sitcoms filmed before a live audience. The three also revisit their early days in Hollywood, discuss rejection, resilience, and the unpredictable paths creative careers take, and explore how success often comes from following opportunities rather than trying to control every step. It’s a thoughtful, funny conversation about craft, friendship, and the lessons that only become clear when you look back. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  19. How We Spent Our Summer [2007 Edition]

    Jul 2 ·  Bonus

    How We Spent Our Summer [2007 Edition]

    In this deeply personal bonus episode, Josh Radnor and Craig Thomas pause their Season 3 rewatch to revisit the life-changing summer between Seasons 2 and 3 of How I Met Your Mother. Josh opens up about struggling with the pressures of sudden fame, his increasing reliance on alcohol, and how transformative ayahuasca journeys to Brazil and Colombia led him to stop drinking and return to the show feeling calmer, more grounded, and better equipped to embrace his role as Ted Mosby. Craig then shares the heartbreaking story of his son Elliot’s birth, the terrifying weeks spent in the NICU, Elliot’s life-saving open-heart surgery, and his diagnosis with the rare genetic condition Jacobsen syndrome. The two reflect on how those parallel journeys profoundly shaped Season 3, their friendship, and the emotional core of the series, discussing themes of unconditional love, vulnerability, parenthood, finding community, and how life’s hardest moments can ultimately lead to unexpected purpose.  CONNECT WITH THE SHOW:Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages)Instagram Tiktok READ JOSH’S MUSELETTERS ON SUBSTACK:Subscribe HERE CRAIG’S BOOK IS AVAILABLE!Head over to CRAIG’S WEBSITE to order your copy of THAT’S NOT HOW IT HAPPENED.SUPPORT PEDIATRIC CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE RESEARCH:Click HERE to learn more and donate today.FOLLOW THE OFFICE LADIES:Check out "Office Ladies" at https://officeladies.com/ or wherever you get your podcasts! Follow on Instagram: OfficeLadiesPodFollow on TikTok AND MORE:Josh’s Official WebsiteJosh on SpotifyCraig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing)Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack

  20. How We Made a Cartoon | S1E3 "The Sweet Taste of Liberty"

    04/07/2025

    How We Made a Cartoon | S1E3 "The Sweet Taste of Liberty"

    In this episode of How We Made Your Mother, Josh and Craig revisit “The Sweet Taste of Liberty” and talk about how it marked a shift in tone for the show. The episode introduced Barney’s cartoonish side, the “legend—wait for it—dary” catchphrase, and a more outrageous style of storytelling. They discuss the influence of writers Chris Miller and Phil Lord, the origins of Barney’s character, and the episode’s mission to answer two big questions: Why is this wild man part of the friend group? And how do Robin and Lily become friends? The conversation also explores how Ted became more reactive in this episode, the challenge of balancing sitcom energy with character growth, and how early episodes were still “auditioning” the show’s style. They end with heartfelt letters from listeners about how How I Met Your Mother impacted their lives—and Craig shares his personal story about making the show while navigating his own family’s medical crisis, adding emotional depth to the series and the podcast. Make sure to listen through to the end, when Craig Thomas will announce the permanent fundraising campaign of this podcast, How You Make a Difference, raising money for congenital heart disease. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW: Official Website (Send us your audio and written messages) Substack (Join the mailing list, get announcements, and read more from Josh and Craig) Instagram HOW YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Donate to our ongoing campaign to support congenital heart disease research AND MORE: Josh’s “Museletters” on Substack Josh’s Official Website Josh on Spotify Craig’s Official Website (with links to his published writing) Alek’s “Dead Fathers Society” on Substack THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Nutrafol: Start your hair growth journey with Nutrafol at nutrafol.com and use the code YOURMOTHER. Advertising inquiries: hwmym@wearebv.com AND IN CASE IT HELPS: 00:00 Emotional Growth Through Television 07:14 The Creative Process Behind 'How I Met Your Mother' 14:00 Character Dynamics and Relationships 21:04 The Evolution of Storytelling in Sitcoms 30:54 The Creative Process Behind Iconic Moments 32:41 Balancing Character Arcs and Storytelling 35:49 The Role of Chaos and Creation in Relationships 39:03 Exploring Vulnerability and Masculinity 43:23 Fan Impact and Personal Stories 55:08 The Timelessness of Love and Resilience

Josh Radnor on Apple