iHeartPodcasts and SNAFU Media have announced the launch of a new original podcast series, “Here We Go Again,” hosted by actor, writer, and producer Kal Penn. The show is set to premiere on October 21, 2025, and will be available on the iHeartRadio app and other podcast platforms.
The podcast will explore how current events echo moments from history, featuring expert guests and notable figures such as Bill Nye, Ed Helms, Michael Lewis, Stacey Abrams, Pete Buttigieg, and Lilly Singh. Each episode will focus on a trending topic and draw parallels to similar situations from the past.
Kal Penn, who is making his podcast debut as both host and executive producer, said, “From serious things (like financial collapse) to ludicrous pet peeves (like why there’s never a gate agent ready when your plane lands), I wanted to combine institutional knowledge with uplifting, calm conversation that can help us all sort through the chaos of this planet we share. In each episode, we’ll have hopeful conversations with people who understand things best, before looking ahead at what the future might hold and what our place in it could be.”
Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts, commented, “We’re thrilled to be working with SNAFU Media again as listeners’ appetite for fresh perspectives on history continues to grow. Kal brings both genuine curiosity and a unique viewpoint to every story he tells. His engaging storytelling makes history feel personal and relevant, and we’re excited to have him join iHeartPodcasts where he can reach and inspire an even wider audience.”
SNAFU Media is a partnership between Ed Helms’ Pacific Electric Picture Company and FilmNation Entertainment, with production support from Kelly and Kelly. The two companies have previously collaborated on the podcast “SNAFU with Ed Helms,” which has received recognition including Signal Awards for Best Writing and Best Host in the Limited Series and Specials category. The fourth season of “SNAFU” launched earlier this month.
Ed Helms said, “SNAFU Media is all about smart, fun storytelling that tackles today’s chaos head-on, and Kal Penn is a perfect new partner in that mission. He’s authentic, hilarious, absurdly talented, and, thanks to his White House gig, frighteningly well-informed. With Kal on our team, SNAFU Media’s cartoon supervillain plot for worldwide podcast domination is officially unstoppable.”
“Here We Go Again with Kal Penn” is executive produced by Penn, Helms, Mike Falbo, Alyssa Martino, Andy Kim, Pat Kelly, Chris Kelly, and Dylan Fagan. Dave Shumka and Megan Tan are the producers.
Kal Penn is known for his roles in television and film, as well as his service in the Obama administration as Associate Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement. He has also been involved in academia as an adjunct lecturer.
FilmNation Entertainment is an independent entertainment company involved in film, television, podcasts, and theater productions. Its recent projects include award-winning films such as “Anora” and “Conclave,” as well as the podcast “SNAFU with Ed Helms.”
Pacific Electric Picture Company, founded by Ed Helms and Mike Falbo, has produced television shows like “Rutherford Falls” and “True Story with Ed & Randall,” along with films such as “Coffee and Kareem” for Netflix.
The new podcast aims to provide historical context for current events while offering insight and optimism for listeners.
