NewsRadio Season 1 Episodes

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Season 1 Episode Guide

Episode 1 - Season 1, Episode 1: The Pilot

As the new News Director at New York's WNYX radio, Dave Nelson is ready for his first day on the job. But there's just one problem -- station owner Jimmy James has yet to fire Ed Harlow, the man Dave has been hired to replace. According to Jimmy, that's Dave's first job. To make matters worse, Jimmy has not told anyone on the staff that Dave is their new boss as he proceeds to introduce him as the station's new sports reporter. As he looks for a way to break the news to Ed, Dave meets the rest of the WNYX news team, and quickly realizes what's in store for him. First of all, the station's news anchors, Bill and Catherine, are locked in a power struggle that threatens to paralyze the newsroom. Then there's Lisa Miller, a reporter and the hardest working member of the staff, who thinks she is about to be named news director. Meanwhile, as Jimmy heads off to look into his latest business venture, Dave discovers that Ed is highly sensitive to any bad news. However, when Ed suddenly quits, Dave thinks he is off the hook. However, Dave's relief is just temporary. It seems that Ed quits several times each week, only to be back at work soon thereafter. After witnessing an argument between Ed and the station's new ace reporter, Matthew, Dave decides he has to tell someone the truth. But, even after swearing Matthew to secrecy, Dave soon finds that the entire WNYX staff is waiting for him to make his move. Before dealing with Ed, Dave saves Lisa some embarrassment by announcing to everyone that he was hired only after she turned own the job first. Unable to continue the ruse any longer, Dave finally breaks the news to Ed before making it very clear to everyone else that he is now in charge.
Episode 1 - Pilot

As the new News Director at New York's WNYX radio, Dave Nelson is ready for his first day on the job. But there's just one problem -- station owner Jimmy James has yet to fire Ed Harlow, the man Dave has been hired to replace. According to Jimmy, that's Dave's first job. To make matters worse, Jimmy has not told anyone on the staff that Dave is their new boss as he proceeds to introduce him as the station's new sports reporter. As he looks for a way to break the news to Ed, Dave meets the rest of the WNYX news team, and quickly realizes what's in store for him. First of all, the station's news anchors, Bill and Catherine, are locked in a power struggle that threatens to paralyze the newsroom. Then there's Lisa Miller, a reporter and the hardest working member of the staff, who thinks she is about to be named news director. Meanwhile, as Jimmy heads off to look into his latest business venture, Dave discovers that Ed is highly sensitive to any bad news. However, when Ed suddenly quits, Dave thinks he is off the hook. However, Dave's relief is just temporary. It seems that Ed quits several times each week, only to be back at work soon thereafter. After witnessing an argument between Ed and the station's new ace reporter, Matthew, Dave decides he has to tell someone the truth. But, even after swearing Matthew to secrecy, Dave soon finds that the entire WNYX staff is waiting for him to make his move. Before dealing with Ed, Dave saves Lisa some embarrassment by announcing to everyone that he was hired only after she turned own the job first. Unable to continue the ruse any longer, Dave finally breaks the news to Ed before making it very clear to everyone else that he is now in charge.
Episode 2 - Season 1, Episode 2: The Crisis

Only two weeks into his new job, Dave is facing his first big news crisis. A fire has stranded a subway train between stations, leaving its 35 passengers in the dark and smoky tunnel. Though Bill suggests sticking with the station's usual approach of periodic updates with little information, Dave has other ideas. He wants to be the first station to have a reporter inside the tunnel for an eyewitness account of the rescue. There's just one problem -- the transit commission has never allowed anyone in a tunnel during an emergency. Then another problem throws a wrench into the works -- the delivery of Matthew's new desk, a purchase that was approved by Dave. While trying his best to get the transit commissioner to approve his request, Dave must fend off an endless stream of complaints by the rest of the staff about their not getting new desks, too. After Jimmy arrives with a friend to watch the staff operate during a crisis, Dave makes matters worse when he lets slip that he approved the new desk over a dinner Taking Matthew with him, Dave heads for the transit commissioner's office to see about getting access to the stalled train. Even though the commissioner refuses to even meet with him, Dave manages to steal a tunnel pass for Matthew. However, upon returning to work, Dave is shocked to find that Jimmy has authorized new desks for everyone. Taking the station owner aside, Dave then complains about undercutting his authority in the newsroom and insists on sending the new desks back at once. Meanwhile, at the disaster scene, Matthew finds it too dark and smoky to see much of anything. Finally, Dave's insistence on returning the new desks causes one last problem when the movers take the old ones, too, leaving the station without any office furniture at all.
Episode 2 - The Crisis

Only two weeks into his new job, Dave is facing his first big news crisis. A fire has stranded a subway train between stations, leaving its 35 passengers in the dark and smoky tunnel. Though Bill suggests sticking with the station's usual approach of periodic updates with little information, Dave has other ideas. He wants to be the first station to have a reporter inside the tunnel for an eyewitness account of the rescue. There's just one problem -- the transit commission has never allowed anyone in a tunnel during an emergency. Then another problem throws a wrench into the works -- the delivery of Matthew's new desk, a purchase that was approved by Dave. While trying his best to get the transit commissioner to approve his request, Dave must fend off an endless stream of complaints by the rest of the staff about their not getting new desks, too. After Jimmy arrives with a friend to watch the staff operate during a crisis, Dave makes matters worse when he lets slip that he approved the new desk over a dinner Taking Matthew with him, Dave heads for the transit commissioner's office to see about getting access to the stalled train. Even though the commissioner refuses to even meet with him, Dave manages to steal a tunnel pass for Matthew. However, upon returning to work, Dave is shocked to find that Jimmy has authorized new desks for everyone. Taking the station owner aside, Dave then complains about undercutting his authority in the newsroom and insists on sending the new desks back at once. Meanwhile, at the disaster scene, Matthew finds it too dark and smoky to see much of anything. Finally, Dave's insistence on returning the new desks causes one last problem when the movers take the old ones, too, leaving the station without any office furniture at all.
Episode 3 - Season 1, Episode 3: Inappropriate

In the wake of Matthew's inappropriate, and obscene, pronunciation of a name in the news, Dave must try to limit the damage. Yet, much to his chagrin, Lisa takes charge and suggests an on-air apology before Dave has had a chance to react. And despite the possibility of a lawsuit, Jimmy is delighted with the mistake and hopes he can sell tapes of the error to collectors. However, after he asserts his seniority, Lisa convinces Dave to join her for dinner to discuss the matter. When Beth notices them acting strangely the following morning at work, Dave admits to having spent part of the evening making out with Lisa. Though Beth pledges to keep their little affair a secret, she warns Dave that he and Lisa are bound to have a confrontation which will alert everyone. Agreeing that an affair is unprofessional, Dave and Lisa just can't keep it from escalating even further. Meanwhile, Bill persists in trying to convince Catherine to join him for a date, while Matthew is convinced he's being fired as a result of his on-air mistake. Realizing that Lisa and Dave have gone on to have sex, Beth reaffirms her earlier warning. As Bill tries to enlist them into coaxing Catherine to join him for lunch, Lisa and Dave pledge to nip their affair in the bud once and for all, only to end up making love on his office couch. Finally, after deciding their only choice is to keep the romance a secret, Dave learns the reason behind Catherine and Bill's tense relationship -- their own inter-office affair four years ago.
Episode 3 - Inappropriate

In the wake of Matthew's inappropriate, and obscene, pronunciation of a name in the news, Dave must try to limit the damage. Yet, much to his chagrin, Lisa takes charge and suggests an on-air apology before Dave has had a chance to react. And despite the possibility of a lawsuit, Jimmy is delighted with the mistake and hopes he can sell tapes of the error to collectors. However, after he asserts his seniority, Lisa convinces Dave to join her for dinner to discuss the matter. When Beth notices them acting strangely the following morning at work, Dave admits to having spent part of the evening making out with Lisa. Though Beth pledges to keep their little affair a secret, she warns Dave that he and Lisa are bound to have a confrontation which will alert everyone. Agreeing that an affair is unprofessional, Dave and Lisa just can't keep it from escalating even further. Meanwhile, Bill persists in trying to convince Catherine to join him for a date, while Matthew is convinced he's being fired as a result of his on-air mistake. Realizing that Lisa and Dave have gone on to have sex, Beth reaffirms her earlier warning. As Bill tries to enlist them into coaxing Catherine to join him for lunch, Lisa and Dave pledge to nip their affair in the bud once and for all, only to end up making love on his office couch. Finally, after deciding their only choice is to keep the romance a secret, Dave learns the reason behind Catherine and Bill's tense relationship -- their own inter-office affair four years ago.
Episode 4 - Smoking

In compliance with a new state law, Dave announces that the station is now officially a no-smoking office. News of the ban doesn't sit well with Bill, who claims that cigarettes are the key to his radio voice. And when he discovers a provision in the law allowing a special smoking area, Bill insists that Dave comply. When this idea proves impractical, Dave decides to inspire Bill to quit and ends up offering to give up coffee if Bill gives up smoking. Meanwhile, Lisa worries about her affair with Dave being exposed after Joe sees them at the movies together. Upon arriving at the station to find Dave in a trance and Bill coughing his way through the news broadcast, Jimmy takes action himself, popping a cigarette in Bill's mouth and immediately improving his performance. However, when Dave plucks the cigarette from his mouth, Bill suddenly reverts back to coughing. Dave then gives him some nicotine patches prescribed by his doctor, and Bill gets relief from his craving -- unaware that using them without medical supervision has serious side effects. With Bill in the hospital, Jimmy demands that Dave start drinking coffee after telling him it's decaffeinated -- even though it isn't! Confronting Joe about their encounter at the theater, Lisa learns he is more concerned about his being seen there with a gay man than seeing her with someone in a stupid-looking hat. Finally, Dave solves his problem by sealing off the broadcast booth so that Bill and Catherine can do their show enveloped in a cloud of cigarette smoke.
Episode 4 - Season 1, Episode 4: Smoking

In compliance with a new state law, Dave announces that the station is now officially a no-smoking office. News of the ban doesn't sit well with Bill, who claims that cigarettes are the key to his radio voice. And when he discovers a provision in the law allowing a special smoking area, Bill insists that Dave comply. When this idea proves impractical, Dave decides to inspire Bill to quit and ends up offering to give up coffee if Bill gives up smoking. Meanwhile, Lisa worries about her affair with Dave being exposed after Joe sees them at the movies together. Upon arriving at the station to find Dave in a trance and Bill coughing his way through the news broadcast, Jimmy takes action himself, popping a cigarette in Bill's mouth and immediately improving his performance. However, when Dave plucks the cigarette from his mouth, Bill suddenly reverts back to coughing. Dave then gives him some nicotine patches prescribed by his doctor, and Bill gets relief from his craving -- unaware that using them without medical supervision has serious side effects. With Bill in the hospital, Jimmy demands that Dave start drinking coffee after telling him it's decaffeinated -- even though it isn't! Confronting Joe about their encounter at the theater, Lisa learns he is more concerned about his being seen there with a gay man than seeing her with someone in a stupid-looking hat. Finally, Dave solves his problem by sealing off the broadcast booth so that Bill and Catherine can do their show enveloped in a cloud of cigarette smoke.
Episode 5 - Season 1, Episode 5: Luncheon At the Waldorf

As Dave and Lisa struggle to keep their own romance a secret, another potential inter-office relationship arises when Bill invites Beth to the Annual Broadcaster's Luncheon. While Beth believes him when he says the invitation comes with no strings attached, no one else in the office does. And when Bill asks her to wear the revealing dress she wore at their last Christmas party, even Beth begins to suspect things are getting out of hand. With Dave facing a $6,000 budget shortfall, Lisa quietly suggests taking a look at Matthew's phone bill. Caught making personal long distance calls on the office phone, Matthew then points to Catherine's corporate account at an expensive hair salon. Meanwhile, Bill insists that their luncheon date is harmless and that he thinks of Beth as a daughter. But, after a few glasses of champagne, it isn't Bill but Beth who makes an unsolicited advance. However it's not the kiss that gets Dave's attention. Rather, it's Beth's 93 magazine subscriptions on the company account and the chauffeured limousine Bill hired for the luncheon. As a result of the unsolicited kiss, Bill is in a state of shock, especially once everyone in the office knows what happened. After listening to Beth explain how she was simply swept away by the moment, Bill hesitatingly accepts her apology, but insists that the two of them never be left alone in the same room anymore. Finally, when Dave's investigation of the budget leads him to question Jimmy's use of a helicopter to fly home and play with his dogs at lunch, the owner's solution is simple -- increase the budget for fuel.
Episode 5 - Luncheon At the Waldorf

As Dave and Lisa struggle to keep their own romance a secret, another potential inter-office relationship arises when Bill invites Beth to the Annual Broadcaster's Luncheon. While Beth believes him when he says the invitation comes with no strings attached, no one else in the office does. And when Bill asks her to wear the revealing dress she wore at their last Christmas party, even Beth begins to suspect things are getting out of hand. With Dave facing a $6,000 budget shortfall, Lisa quietly suggests taking a look at Matthew's phone bill. Caught making personal long distance calls on the office phone, Matthew then points to Catherine's corporate account at an expensive hair salon. Meanwhile, Bill insists that their luncheon date is harmless and that he thinks of Beth as a daughter. But, after a few glasses of champagne, it isn't Bill but Beth who makes an unsolicited advance. However it's not the kiss that gets Dave's attention. Rather, it's Beth's 93 magazine subscriptions on the company account and the chauffeured limousine Bill hired for the luncheon. As a result of the unsolicited kiss, Bill is in a state of shock, especially once everyone in the office knows what happened. After listening to Beth explain how she was simply swept away by the moment, Bill hesitatingly accepts her apology, but insists that the two of them never be left alone in the same room anymore. Finally, when Dave's investigation of the budget leads him to question Jimmy's use of a helicopter to fly home and play with his dogs at lunch, the owner's solution is simple -- increase the budget for fuel.
Episode 6 - Big Day

The Big Day when Jimmy hands out the annual bonuses has arrived. And after he's cautioned against having an affair with anyone at work, and particularly Lisa, Dave is saddled with the responsibility of deciding this year's bonuses. Explaining how he motivates with paranoia and fear, Jimmy says that everyone should get $400 except for two. One gets "the big bonus" of $3,000, while the other gets "the shaft, " or nothing. Not wanting to be "shafted" for the fourth year in a row, Matthew pleads his case with Dave, while Lisa is convinced she's getting the big bonus to make up for not being made news director. Dave suggests that no one get "the shaft" this year. But Jimmy won't accept any changes in the policy and offers to take full responsibility for whatever Dave decides. However, when Lisa accidentally finds his list of who's getting what, she discovers that she isn't the only candidate for the big bonus. Upset over Dave keeping his role a secret, Lisa then offers to keep quiet about what she's found -- -- in exchange for the $3,000! Realizing that things have gotten out of hand, Dave calls a staff meeting and suggests pooling all the bonus money to give everyone an equal share. What he finds is that everyone is willing to take their chances with his decision, as each of them certain they're the one getting the $3,000. Seeing how to manipulate the situation to her advantage, Catherine claims she doesn't care one way or the other and ends up with the big bonus, while Dave gives himself "the shaft" to make everyone else feel guilty. However, Dave soon realizes that not recognizing Joe can mean real problems for the station.
Episode 6 - Season 1, Episode 6: Big Day

The Big Day when Jimmy hands out the annual bonuses has arrived. And after he's cautioned against having an affair with anyone at work, and particularly Lisa, Dave is saddled with the responsibility of deciding this year's bonuses. Explaining how he motivates with paranoia and fear, Jimmy says that everyone should get $400 except for two. One gets "the big bonus" of $3,000, while the other gets "the shaft, " or nothing. Not wanting to be "shafted" for the fourth year in a row, Matthew pleads his case with Dave, while Lisa is convinced she's getting the big bonus to make up for not being made news director. Dave suggests that no one get "the shaft" this year. But Jimmy won't accept any changes in the policy and offers to take full responsibility for whatever Dave decides. However, when Lisa accidentally finds his list of who's getting what, she discovers that she isn't the only candidate for the big bonus. Upset over Dave keeping his role a secret, Lisa then offers to keep quiet about what she's found -- -- in exchange for the $3,000! Realizing that things have gotten out of hand, Dave calls a staff meeting and suggests pooling all the bonus money to give everyone an equal share. What he finds is that everyone is willing to take their chances with his decision, as each of them certain they're the one getting the $3,000. Seeing how to manipulate the situation to her advantage, Catherine claims she doesn't care one way or the other and ends up with the big bonus, while Dave gives himself "the shaft" to make everyone else feel guilty. However, Dave soon realizes that not recognizing Joe can mean real problems for the station.
Episode 7 - Season 1, Episode 7: Sweeps Week

As their clandestine affair progresses, Dave begins to learn some of the details about Lisa's former boyfriend, Stewart. Aware of just how much Stewart was liked by the station's staff, Dave then finds himself facing a problem of his own -- the unexpected arrival of his former girlfriend, Nancy. Meanwhile, over Lisa's objections, Dave chooses Bill to interview a business visionary who has made a real impression on Jimmy. However, when Bill makes himself the center of attention, Tom Baxter walks out of the interview without saying a word. It's only when Nancy arrives that Lisa learns that Dave never really broke up with her before leaving Wisconsin to take his new job in New York. In his own defense, Dave explains that he didn't call off the relationship for fear of hurting Nancy's feelings. Though Dave insists that she's fragile and needs to be handled with care, Lisa learns otherwise when Nancy warns her to stay away from her boyfriend -- or else! Meanwhile, after Baxter gets another chance at an interview, Bill refuses to say anything at all. Though Beth is sure that Lisa must be joking, she realizes just how serious it is when she, too, gets one of Nancy's stern warnings to keep away from Dave. After Dave finally sets her straight about his relationship with Lisa, he thinks he's gotten rid of Nancy once and for all. However, when Nancy arrives at the station to bid everyone farewell and tries to tell everyone of the affair between Lisa and Dave, the incredulous staff refuses to believe her. Finally, only after Catherine is finally given a chance to interview Tom does everyone realize just how shallow he really is.
Episode 7 - Sweeps Week

As their clandestine affair progresses, Dave begins to learn some of the details about Lisa's former boyfriend, Stewart. Aware of just how much Stewart was liked by the station's staff, Dave then finds himself facing a problem of his own -- the unexpected arrival of his former girlfriend, Nancy. Meanwhile, over Lisa's objections, Dave chooses Bill to interview a business visionary who has made a real impression on Jimmy. However, when Bill makes himself the center of attention, Tom Baxter walks out of the interview without saying a word. It's only when Nancy arrives that Lisa learns that Dave never really broke up with her before leaving Wisconsin to take his new job in New York. In his own defense, Dave explains that he didn't call off the relationship for fear of hurting Nancy's feelings. Though Dave insists that she's fragile and needs to be handled with care, Lisa learns otherwise when Nancy warns her to stay away from her boyfriend -- or else! Meanwhile, after Baxter gets another chance at an interview, Bill refuses to say anything at all. Though Beth is sure that Lisa must be joking, she realizes just how serious it is when she, too, gets one of Nancy's stern warnings to keep away from Dave. After Dave finally sets her straight about his relationship with Lisa, he thinks he's gotten rid of Nancy once and for all. However, when Nancy arrives at the station to bid everyone farewell and tries to tell everyone of the affair between Lisa and Dave, the incredulous staff refuses to believe her. Finally, only after Catherine is finally given a chance to interview Tom does everyone realize just how shallow he really is.
Episode 8 - Season 2, Episode 1: No, This Is Not Based Entirely On Julie's Life

Mystery of the mystery gelato.
Episode 9 - Season 2, Episode 2: Goofy Ball

A new toy disrupts the staff.
Episode 10 - Season 2, Episode 3: Rat Funeral

Dave has no sympathy for a dead rodent.
Episode 11 - Season 2, Episode 4: The Breakup

The romance is exposed!
Episode 12 - Season 2, Episode 5: Shrink

Faced with an abysmal mood at the office, Dave does his best to cheer everyone up. But Catherine and Beth are in mood to listen to anyone, while Matthew is arguing with Joe. Yet nothing can top Bill's decision to build a cubicle around his desk for privacy. Jimmy thinks the time is right to call in a popular therapist who has counseled them in the past. But Dave is sure he can handle it with a staff meeting. When the meeting is a dismal failure, Dave discovers his staff would welcome a visit by the ever-popular Dr. Frank Westford. And when he arrives to the staff's warm welcome, even Bill is more than willing to respond to the affable therapist. Though Lisa suggests some therapy may help him, too, Dave is concerned to learn Dr. Frank was her college psychology professor. But it's not until their session is getting underway that he's told of their student-teacher affair. Even after seeing how much he's helped the staff, Dave continues to balk at a session of his own. Yet once Dr. Frank lures him into conversation, Dave suddenly realizes the value of therapy, too. However, it's Dr. Frank who finds himself on the couch when, as he's questioned by Dave about the relationship with Lisa, he admits to having an incurable addiction to sex. Finally, despite their suggestion that he tear down the walls of his cubicle, a look inside convinces Dave and Dr. Frank that Bill needs a little more time.
Episode 13 - Season 2, Episode 6: Friends

When Dave hires someone to help with a backlog of filing, Beth couldn't be happier -- until she learns the temp is her childhood friend, Sandi Angelini. In a private moment, Beth complains that Sandi used to copy everything she did, from her hairstyles and mannerisms, to stealing a boyfriend. Lisa and Dave think she's just being paranoid, so Beth suggests an experiment which could prove her claim. Meanwhile, after leaving his identification card at his desk, Bill is denied entry by a pair of the building's security guards. To prove her point, Beth suggests to Sandi that she is romantically interested in Matthew. As predicted, Sandi then makes an obvious pass at him as well. And while Matthew isn't sure what to make of all the attention, Dave and Lisa see that Beth was right. Meanwhile, as the security guards continue to foil Bill's attempts to sneak inside, Catherine decides to have some fun by getting into the act, too. Disgusted by Sandi's flirtatious behavior, Beth ups the ante in her little game by giving Matthew a big kiss. So Matthew seeks Lisa's advice on how to handle the two women who seem to be in love with him. But when Beth decides to put an end to the charade and confronts her about the mimicry, Sandi finally admits she only did it out of envy and admiration. Upon making up, they each let Matthew down gently with some help from Dave, while Bill recovers his ID for the benefit of the guards, only to discover it's expired.
Episode 14 - Season 2, Episode 7: Bill's Autobiography

When Bill's slightly shady agent drops by the station, Dave learns that the star newscaster is writing an autobiography. And though Bill asks that the book be kept under wraps for now, Dave mentions it to Lisa and the news soon spreads throughout the office. As a result, Bill is forced to admit in confidence that he has written virtually nothing after three months of work. News of Bill's writer's block leads the staff to offer all kinds of suggestions. And though Bill doesn't find them at all helpful, Dave does find the staff's preoccupation with Bill's problem to be a distraction. Yet, even though Bill does his best to keep up appearances, he finally concludes that he's a bore with nothing of interest to say about himself to anyone. After flirting with the idea of suicide, Bill concludes that seeing him fail is just what everyone has been waiting for. So Dave enlists the rest of the staff to boost Bill's confidence. Only then, Bill realizes that Dave isn't the only one who knows about his problem. Finally, after Bill agrees to give up on the project, Dave helps him save face by insisting his own refusal to sign a release has kept the book from being written.
Episode 15 - Season 2, Episode 8: Negotiation

Lisa looks for a new job.
Episode 16 - Season 2, Episode 9: The Cane

The annual office retreat divides the staff.
Episode 17 - Season 2, Episode 10: Xmas Story

Bill is stalked by Santa Claus.
Episode 18 - Season 2, Episode 11: Station Sale

Newsradio goes on the block.
Episode 19 - Season 2, Episode 12: Bitch Session

Dave's thin skin is pierced.
Episode 20 - Season 2, Episode 13: In Through the Out Door

After overhearing his colleagues talking about bets they've won or lost, Matthew is eager to become a gambler, too. But when he asks for help, Matthew's irritating persistence prompts Joe to teach him a lesson he'll never forget. Meanwhile, when Jimmy can't make it to a big broadcasters dinner, he gives his seat to Dave. And Dave accepts before learning that he'll be expected to introduce the evening's keynote speaker, Bill. Recalling his own dismal record at speechmaking, Dave nervously sits down to compose his remarks. And while Bill offers him some pointers, the helpful hints only serve to make him angry as well as nervous. In order to help Dave out, Beth makes preparations for him to try out his speech. Only his confidence isn't boosted by the distractions offered by her and Catherine. Meanwhile, after losing bet after bet, Matthew suddenly finds himself owing Joe thousands of dollars. After learning of Matthew's mounting debt, Lisa tries getting to Joe to call the whole thing off. But the losing streak continues despite a chance to win everything back. Fearing that Dave's introduction will fall flat, Bill tries one more time to coach him. But an angry outburst ruins Bill's voice, leaving him unable to speak at the dinner. Finally, after realizing that Matthew has been duped, Jimmy wins back the hapless reporter's money.
Episode 21 - Season 2, Episode 14: The Song Remains the Same

April Fool's Day at the station.
Episode 22 - Season 2, Episode 15: Zoso

After getting a big order for a hat she's designed, Beth needs help getting them made and delivered on time. So Jimmy offers to teach her his secrets to the art of negotiation. And Lisa decides to listen in, hoping she can use the techniques to get a raise out of Dave. However, Lisa's subsequent attempts to persuade Dave to increase her salary only creates confusion and fails to produce a raise. Meanwhile, after Bill tells his new girlfriend that he's British, Matthew and Joe go way overboard in their efforts to play along. After trading outfits with Lisa, Beth sets out with Jimmy to negotiate a deal for her new hats. Only after they arrive for their meeting that Jimmy realizes they are dealing with a notorious Mafia boss. However, once Jimmy's efforts to intercede are silenced, Beth's emotional outburst results in a deal with Don Green. Meanwhile, as Lisa tries to get an advance on her salary, Dave urges Bill to tell his girlfriend Linda the truth. As Jimmy asks Beth to teach him her crying secrets, Lisa tells Dave that the advance is to finance a recording by her ex-boyfriend's band. Though she insists it has nothing to do with their past relationship, when pressed Lisa admits it's for a song encouraging her to stop seeing Dave. Finally, Bill's efforts to tell Linda the truth are set back when she admits she's falling in love with him.
Episode 23 - Season 2, Episode 16: Houses of the Holy

A temp gives Dave a headache.
Episode 24 - Season 2, Episode 17: Physical Graffiti

Dave, Beth and Stewart makes three.
Episode 25 - Season 2, Episode 18: Led Zeppelin

Dave and Lisa make an announcement.
Episode 26 - Season 2, Episode 19: Presence

Bill's the price in high stakes poker.
Episode 27 - Season 2, Episode 20: Coda

Though Dave is pleased with the results, Bill is unhappy with a new promotional spot they've recorded for the station. But upon seeking Jimmy's advice, they find themselves in the midst of a non-stop editing session to produce one upon which everyone can agree. Meanwhile, Matthew proposes that everyone go together on a summer house in the Hamptons, and Joe turns to Lisa for help studying for an important certification exam. As Jimmy, Dave and Bill struggle to agree on a new spot, Beth inquires about subletting her share of the summer home. While Matthew is quick to encourage her idea, Catherine makes it clear that she doesn't want to spend her summer weekends with a bunch of strangers, not to mention one with Bill running around in a skimpy bathing suit. Meanwhile, Beth pitches in to help Joe prepare for his exam. As a condition of Lisa's participation, Matthew guarantees that she and Dave will be scheduled to use the summer house on alternate weekends. Yet, Dave's hoping to use the house as a chance to revive their relationship and wants to be scheduled on the same weekends. Once it becomes clear that Matthew has been less than honest with them, the staff sells their shares in the house to anyone they can find. Finally, after a long day of editing produces a very, very brief promo, Joe gets a passing grade, but only after saving his professor from a stalled elevator.
Episode 28 - Season 2, Episode 21: Led Zepplin II

A building fire reunites Lisa and Dave.
Episode 29 - Season 2, Episode 22: Injury

Matthew has a work accident.
Episode 30 - Season 3, Episode 1: Review

An annual review of the station sparks problems; Matthew quits over a story he isn't allowed to do.
Episode 31 - Season 3, Episode 2: President

Back from a Wisconsin vacation to find Matthew has grown a mustache, Dave learns that Jimmy has decided to declare himself a candidate for President of the United States. Though Dave points out his lack of background for the office and Lisa insists she'll scrutinize him as much as any other candidate, Jimmy is still determined to run. And realizing an opportunity for advancement when they see one, Bill and Beth throw themselves behind Jimmy's quest. As Jimmy works to find the right slogan for his campaign, Dave suspects an ulterior motive behind his decision to run. However, when he and Lisa sit down with their boss for a friendly chat, they still cannot get to the reason for his candidacy. Meanwhile, after Jimmy produces up a disgusting old photo of himself sporting a mustache, the station's staff does their best to persuade Matthew him to shave. As Jimmy prepares to publicly announce his candidacy, Lisa reveals that she's uncovered enough personal information to nip his run for office in the bud. And while Dave warns against going too hard on their boss, Bill's questions during the press conference prompt Lisa to reveal what she's found. However, when it comes to discussing a running mate, Dave realizes that the presidential campaign is just one more attempt by Jimmy to find a wife. Finally, with Jimmy's scam exposed and his candidacy shelved, Matthew fails to find anyone other than Bill who'll give his mustache any respect.
Episode 32 - Season 3, Episode 3: Massage Chair

Bill leads the staff in a revolt after their free snacks fall victim to budget cuts.
Episode 33 - Season 3, Episode 4: Arcade

Dave's old nemesis comes back to haunt him when Beth replaces the lobby sandwich machine with a popular 1980's arcade game; Lisa retakes her college entrance exams to see if her mind is slipping.
Episode 34 - Season 3, Episode 5: Awards Show

Dave is determined to end the station's losing streak at a big awards banquet.
Episode 35 - Season 3, Episode 6: Stocks

Beth turns to Jimmy for some investing advice; Lisa balks at asking Dave for a favor.
Episode 36 - Season 3, Episode 7: Halloween

In the midst of the preparations for Jimmy's annual Halloween party, the station's staff is hit with a big surprise. Because of their previous unwillingness to actively participate, no one except Matthew has been invited this year. Upset with the slight, they turn to Dave for help. And though Dave isn't interested, Lisa guarantees Jimmy that the staff will be at the party in costume if invited. Meanwhile, the psychic hired for the party tells Bill exactly when he's going to die. When Lisa runs into trouble, she announces that Dave is going to wear an outrageous costume and gets everyone to change their minds about the party. Although Dave still has reservations about the idea, it's enough to convince Jimmy to invite everyone back. While finding getting in isn't going to be quite as easy as she thought, Lisa notices that Dave is wearing one of her dresses as his costume and is upset that he looks better in it than she does. But when he offers to change, she insists that it will only make things even worse. Knowing that he's going to die in another 35 years has Bill depressed about his future. In response to his own immortality, he arrives at the party with his elderly date, Dorothy. When he persists in thanking the psychic for her insights, Bill is told that she made a mistake and that he's destined to live much longer than originally thought. However, when the news causes him to dump his elderly date, Bill discovers too late that beneath Dorothy's costume is a young and attractive woman. Finally, Jimmy uses Dave and Lisa's eager-to-please attitude to get his party guests dancing.
Episode 37 - Season 3, Episode 8: Daydream

A broken thermostat and some excessive heat induces strange dreams in the staff.
Episode 38 - Season 3, Episode 9: Movie Star

To prepare for a new movie in which he plays a radio broadcaster, actor James Caan arrives to spend some time observing Bill. As one of his biggest fans, Matthew can't wait to get an autograph from the movie star. But Bill is certain that they will be much too busy to bother with Matthew's request. Meanwhile, as Beth and Catherine jockey for a ticket to join Jimmy to a big basketball game, Dave prepares to surprise Lisa with an unexpected birthday gift. While Bill is certain he'll want to understand what drives him to do his job, all Caan wants is to watch him at work. However, after meeting Matthew, he does take an interest in what it is that makes him so strange. Then, as Catherine and Beth are quizzed for the right to the basketball tickets, Dave unveils his present for Lisa...her first television set. But they quickly part ways over the question of the intelligence of TV viewers. As Bill tries getting him interested in the deeper meaning of being a radio announcer, James becomes fascinated with Matthew's unusual behavior. And once Bill accuses him of trying to steal the actor's attention, Matthew offers to go home to avoid being a distraction, but only after nervously getting an autograph. Meanwhile, when Lisa discovers there's a channel that carries congressional hearings 24-hours a day, she immediately decides that she wants a television. And when Jimmy offers to buy an extra ticket so he can take them both, Catherine and Beth have second thoughts after seeing just how big a fan he really is.
Episode 39 - Season 3, Episode 10: Rap

Lisa balks at being the Cutest Reporter in New York; Bill starts his own anti-rap music crusade.
Episode 40 - Season 3, Episode 11: Christmas

After telling everyone they can leave early for the holidays provided their work is done, Dave prepares for his own Christmas Eve trip to Wisconsin with Lisa. But when Catherine conveniently forgets to finish one last, laborious task, Dave agrees to help out so she can leave early. Meanwhile, when Bill needs a partner to record a commercial audition tape, Beth agrees to help. And when the job is offered provided she can work, too, Dave agrees to address the station's Christmas cards so Beth can have her shot at stardom. When the commercial's producer is more taken with Beth's performance than with Bill's, he suggests that she try another partner. Although Beth holds back hoping to make Bill look good, her efforts ultimately fail. And when Bill encourages her to try her best, Beth discovers that she's ruined her voice. Meanwhile, Dave agrees to clean the office refrigerator so Joe can leave early, too. So, as Jimmy turns to Matthew for gift ideas, Dave's generosity forces him to delay going home to surprise his mom and dad on Christmas Eve. In need of help so he and Lisa can leave on their trip, Dave turns to Matthew. After agreeing to pitch in, Matthew suddenly drops everything after Jimmy offers him a helicopter ride to his aunt's house for Christmas. With Lisa's help, Dave finishes all of the pre-holiday duties so they can be on their way. However, after another delay in their flight, they arrive at his parent's house to discover that the annual Christmas Eve dinner has been moved to Chicago. Finally, as Dave and Lisa head back to New York, Bill is called on to complete the commercial by reading Beth's part.
Episode 41 - Season 3, Episode 12: The Trainer

Bill thinks he's been cheated by his new health club; the staff discovers a secret about Dave's past.
Episode 42 - Season 3, Episode 13: Led Zeppelin Boxed Set

Bill's relentless sarcasm leads to Matthew experimenting with his own dark side; Jimmy looks to Catherine for help beating a crooked card dealer.
Episode 43 - Season 3, Episode 14: Complaint Box

Jimmy's new employee policy covering harassment backfires and brings work at the station to a standstill.
Episode 44 - Season 3, Episode 15: Rose Bowl

Jimmy hires Joe to represent him in a lawsuit; Dave takes Lisa's suggestion for a new performance evaluation.
Episode 45 - Season 3, Episode 16: Kids

As Dave looks for the owner of some pornography he's found lying around, Jimmy arranges for a group of third grade interns to work at the station.
Episode 46 - Season 3, Episode 17: Airport

When Dave and Bill are stranded by a storm in St. Louis, Lisa is put in charge.
Episode 47 - Season 3, Episode 18: Twins

Matthew's twin brother comes to visit; Bill's secret contract nearly bankrupts the station.
Episode 48 - Season 3, Episode 19: Office Feud

When new occupants of the floor above are making too much noise, Joe agrees to call them. But, after Matthew's struggle with a faulty fire extinguisher accidentally ends up dousing him instead, Joe thinks it's in retaliation for his angry complaint. And while Dave simply wants the noise to stop, Joe sets out to get revenge. Meanwhile, as Jimmy recalls the behavior that caused him to be banned from the president's residence, Lisa phones in with problems of her own from the White House Easter Egg Roll. After Matthew absentmindedly leaves a honey bottle in the microwave oven, Joe is the unintended target when it explodes. And while realizing that it was not the new neighbors that caused Joe's accidents, Matthew decides to keep the information to himself. Meanwhile, as Jimmy takes delight in Lisa's problems getting interviews at the Easter Egg Roll, Bill is hired to advertise a malt liquor using language that Catherine finds offensive. So, making sure he's had plenty to drink, Catherine convinces Bill to use her rewritten ad copy. And when he's fired, she makes sure the sponsor knows how she feels, too. As Lisa continues to struggle with precocious children in the nation's capitol, Dave loses his patience with the upstairs neighbors, too. But when he goes to complain, he's embarrassed to see that the noise is being made by a wheelchair. Yet, once Dave sheepishly retreats, the wheelchair-bound man resumes a noisy basketball game. Finally, as Dave implores him not to seek revenge, Joe finds himself a victim when one of his own pranks is rigged to backfire.
Episode 49 - Season 3, Episode 20: The Real Deal

As Matthew reveals he's a virgin, Bill and Lisa struggle to keep their new program on the air.
Episode 50 - Season 3, Episode 21: Our Fiftieth Episode

An argument over a traffic ticket gets Bill committed to a mental hospital.
Episode 51 - Season 3, Episode 22: Sleeping

When practical joke of Matthew's backfires, Jimmy is rushed to the hospital with a heart attack. Because his will specifies that he spend his final hours with his friends at WNYX, Jimmy's unconscious body is moved to the station where Dave and the staff can take turns sitting and talking with him. While Matthew insists on believing that Jimmy is just taking a nap, Bill takes the first shift. But when Dave objects to his jokes about death, Bill recreates his days as a college disk jockey instead. Meanwhile, as he's comforting Jimmy, Joe is forced to cover when he's caught affectionately holding his hand. When Lisa comes to the conclusion that she wants to have a baby with Dave as soon as possible, the revelation causes Jimmy to have another mild heart attack. In the privacy of his office, Dave demands to know the details about her sudden decision to be a mother. And while Dave suggests they discuss getting married first and then having a child, Lisa is ready to get on with it as soon as possible and gives him a few minutes to think it over. Meanwhile, Bill's efforts to recreate his college radio show takes him and Jimmy back to the 70's. As Catherine tries suggesting that Jimmy play the ultimate practical joke on Bill, Dave asks for some time with their boss to discuss Lisa's proposal. As Matthew swears off any more practical jokes if only Jimmy will live, Dave still cannot come to a decision. But as he and Lisa argue, Jimmy suddenly regains consciousness and asks them to be quiet. And while claiming to remember nothing of everyone's talks, Jimmy does credit a song Bill played for bringing him back from the dead.
Episode 52 - Season 3, Episode 23: Mistake

Dave is forced to apologize for his comments in a magazine interview.
Episode 53 - Season 3, Episode 24: Space

The NewsRadio crew faces disaster on a space station hundreds of years in the future.
Episode 54 - Season 4, Episode 1: Jumper

After finding a man outside his office window threatening to jump, Dave does his best to remain calm as he tries to call the police. But as Joe's work on the office phone system makes it hard for Dave, Bill does his best to make sure the police don't show so he can be a hero by rescuing Mike. And even though Dave insists on waiting for the police, Joe helps Bill out the window in order to rescue Mike while still live on the air. Even though Bill has made contact with Mike, Dave still refuses to put them on the radio. After Mike makes it clear that all he wants is to read a statement attacking his former employer, Jimmy agrees provided that he can be secured with a safety line. But before they can get started Mike falls, pulling Bill from the ledge, too. As Beth and Catherine watch and worry from above, Joe heads outside to rescue Bill and Mike from their precarious position. But when Mike threatens to cut the safety line with a pair of scissors, Jimmy agrees to let him make his statement on the air. However, when his statement reveals that he's been fired from one of Jimmy's companies, he's quickly cut off. And only to save Bill's life does Jimmy agree to let Mike go on TV with his complaint before giving him a new job -- not telling him it's in Siberia.
Episode 55 - Season 4, Episode 2: Planbee

Having had enough of the station's financial losses, Jimmy decides that the time has come for drastic action. While Dave offers to come up with a plan to keep everyone's job, Jimmy brings in an efficiency expert. And though Andrea does her best to put them at ease, everyone realizes that they could be the one who's fired. Although Matthew is more than willing to find a way to prove just how efficient they are, Joe, Beth, Lisa and Catherine all quickly realize that he's likely to be the first one fired. And despite their efforts to make him look good, Matthew manages to prove they are right. Meanwhile, seeing the handwriting on the wall, Bill auditions for a TV news job. In hopes of keeping Matthew on the staff, Dave sets out to convince Andrea that an anonymous accountant is the station's least effective employee. However, things backfire when, after Dave builds up Matthew, Andrea suggests doing without Lisa. Meanwhile, after seeing how much he's a part of the WNYX family, a make up artist sets out to sabotage Bill's TV audition. Finally, despite everyone's attempts to cover for him, Andrea identifies Matthew as the employee who'll have to go. And when she can't be persuaded otherwise, Bill is drafted to deliver the bad news, which Matthew manages to take in stride.
Episode 56 - Season 4, Episode 3: Super Karate Monkey Death Car

While continuing to work under the watchful eye of Jimmy's efficiency expert, the WYNX staff makes it clear that they miss having Matthew around. Ignoring their requests to hire him back, Andrea alerts everyone to a test she'll be giving. But after Joe steals a copy and Dave discovers that it's for a lie detector, Lisa insists that Andrea cannot force anyone to take it. Meanwhile, when Jimmy's memoir becomes a big hit in Japan, he orders Dave to attend his reading at a local book store. Meeting at a nearby restaurant in order to coordinate what they are going to tell Andrea, the staff is surprised to find Matthew pretending to be their waiter. While lunch isn't forthcoming for anyone but Bill, Dave is stunned to learn that Lisa has several serious arrests on her record. As a result, he insists that everyone keep Andrea in the dark about Lisa's criminal past. And while Beth turns to an herbal remedy guaranteed to slow her metabolism and fool the test, Joe's efforts to redirect the polygraph's electrical current works a little too well. Much to Lisa's surprise, she finds Andrea isn't going to give her the same exam she's administered to everyone else. However, when she cannot keep from blurting out her own secrets, Lisa learns that Andrea has a criminal past, too. Meanwhile, both Dave and Jimmy find that translating his book back into English from Japanese has resulted in a very fractured, memoir. So after Jimmy's reading in New York leaves most of his audience confused, he and Dave head for dinner in Japan where he's a hero.
Episode 57 - Season 4, Episode 4: The Public Domain

While trying to keep Matthew's presence at the office to a minimum, Dave learns that Andrea is bringing in someone to share his own job. But after making his case for his management skills, he's given one day to prove himself before Steve is allowed to start. Meanwhile, as Bill tries to get a singing career of the ground, Jimmy arrives with a crew making a movie about a day in his life. When Jimmy's self-consciousness gets in the way, Lisa suggests that they not tell him when the camera is really filming. As Matthew continues lurking about in hopes of getting re-hired, Dave does his best to cover with Andrea. And while Bill's songwriting efforts begin getting on everyone's nerves, Beth and Catherine lobby Andrea on Matthew's behalf. After pointing out some of Matthew's more obvious flaws, Andrea gets Steve started in his job with Dave. And Joe is enlisted in the effort to sabotage the movie and get rid of some of Jimmy's more incendiary remarks. Finally, when Steve decides he doesn't want the job after all, Matthew's hopes are briefly raised about his own return to work.
Episode 58 - Season 4, Episode 5: French Diplomacy

When Dave suggests giving their relationship a break until things settle down at work, Lisa accuses him of dumping her. On news of their rocky office romance, Andrea chastises Lisa for not telling her sooner and claims that she's going to have to investigate and then file an official report. Meanwhile, as Dave and Lisa try fending off Andrea's probe, Bill causes trouble with an editorial that demands foreign diplomats be dragged from their cars and beaten for parking violations. As Andrea continues her investigation of Dave and Lisa's affair, Beth spots someone watching from a nearby office building. While Beth enlists Joe in her effort to stop the spy, Dave takes on Bill for his outrageous editorial, especially after the French ambassador is hospitalized following a severe beating. And as Lisa tries to accept full responsibility for his poor judgment, Dave demands that Bill issue an on-air apology. Meanwhile, after finding that Matthew is the Peeping Tom, Beth and Joe are even more surprised that he has opened a long dormant dental practice across the street. After making it abundantly clear that he is Lisa's boss, Bill goes on the air with his apology. However, when his remarks only serve to inflame tensions when he inadvertently calls for another public beating, Bill is again asked by Lisa to apologize. But when Bill continues to point out that he is her superior, Lisa's efforts to get a retraction are momentarily stalled. Meanwhile, as Matthew uses the opportunity to work on Beth's teeth to explain his love for radio, Andrea tries to make amends with Lisa. And when Bill's next retraction causes yet another disaster, she demotes Dave and gives his job to Lisa.
Episode 59 - Season 4, Episode 6: The Secret of Management

Though she's trying to get off to a good start as the station's new manager, Lisa finds it hard to keep Jimmy from focusing his attention on Dave. Despite her attempts to replicate the banter that existed between the two men, Lisa still cannot hold Jimmy's attention. And she's really irritated when Jimmy reveals that he has yet to tell her what he told Dave about his "Secret of Management.' Meanwhile, as Dave attempts to get a handle on his new job, Bill hires a personal valet. When Lisa tries getting him to divulge Jimmy's secret, Dave refuses to be fooled. Returning to her boss, Lisa then persuades him to tell her what it is over dinner at his house. And once they arrive, she's taken aback by the elaborate web of secrecy surrounding "The Secret." Meanwhile, after getting Beth and Joe to take him to lunch, Matthew insists they pretend Bill is there, too. And while he and Bill are having their own dinner with Matthew, Dave tries to discuss the problems he's had ever since changing jobs with Lisa. However, Bill is only interested in listening if it has something to do with sex. After pressing Jimmy to get on with telling her "The Secret," Lisa is disappointed to discover that it's just a long list of clichés ones that Jimmy claims credit for having written himself. And Lisa is disheartened after Dave reveals that she has many more clichés to get through before Jimmy is done. Finally, after his dinner with Matthew, Bill's manservant Cadbury sneaks away after stealing everything he owns.
Episode 60 - Season 4, Episode 7: Pure Evil

As Lisa anxiously prepares to lead her first staff meeting, Dave plots to get his job back by becoming pure evil. To make sure he's deemed unfit as a producer, he allows Bill to go on the air with some fake interviews with President Bill Clinton. However, after letting Bill run one laced with obscenities, Dave is surprised when Jimmy simply denies any knowledge of it and refuses to fire him. Meanwhile, Lisa's efforts to run a tight ship are hampered by Matthew's spending the night in her office. And when her first staff meeting is quickly brought to a close by her choking on a piece of gum, Dave senses his chances of getting the job back are improving. After insisting that Matthew find somewhere else to sleep at night, Lisa decides to win the staff's approval by providing snacks for their meeting. Despite Beth's warnings that it would be trying too hard, Lisa's elaborate snacks sweep everyone off their feet. Then, as Bill continues to stage riskier and more ribald interviews with the president, Dave is warned against them by the Secret Service. But Bill continues unabated and becomes a celebrity in the process. After efforts to keep Matthew from sleeping at the office inadvertently lands him at her apartment for the night, Lisa's attempt to avoid another staff meeting ends in much embarrassment. And as Bill is brought to Washington to defend his racy mock interviews, Lisa applauds Dave for all they've done to increase the station's ratings. However, even after she frightens the staff by criticizing his poor attitude, Dave realizes that he's only improved his chances of being kept as a producer as he and Lisa agree that switching jobs has had a serious impact on their relationship.
Episode 61 - Season 4, Episode 8: Catherine Moves On

As Dave is trying to work over Bill's noisy eating and Matthew is breaking his third coffee pot of the week, Catherine asks for a staff meeting. Though busy with work, Lisa agrees to listen as Catherine announces that she's leaving WNYX. However, when Jimmy wants an explanation, everyone has a different story about what prompted her to quit on short notice. Meanwhile, as Lisa leaves a phone message at home asking her to reconsider, Joe reveals that he has been tape recording his conversations with Catherine ever since she threatened him with a sexual harassment lawsuit. When asked for his version of the story, Dave recalls how difficult it was to hear over Bill's cereal, suggesting that the noise may have been the catalyst for Catherine's abrupt resignation. Quizzed by Jimmy for his explanation, Bill claims he was calmly eating a quiet breakfast his desk when Catherine made a pass at him before turning her resignation into a not-so-subtle invitation to have sex. Then, as Lisa continues to leave desperate messages for Catherine, Jimmy turns to Matthew who, after blaming a weird thief for breaking the coffee pot, can only recall a suggestive dream he had about Bill. As Beth tries persuading Joe that Catherine was really interested in him, Jimmy turns to Lisa. Remembering herself as being incredibly busy at the time, Lisa blames herself for Catherine's sudden departure. Then, as Beth recalls how everyone quickly descended on her desk to scavenge office supplies, Catherine arrives to explain how another lucrative job offer came up that she just couldn't resist. Finally, after convincing both Joe and Bill to meet her at her apartment to say good-bye, Catherine stays behind at the station as the two men end up there with only each other.
Episode 62 - Season 4, Episode 9: Stupid Holiday Charity Talent Show

Following the lighting of the company Christmas tree, Jimmy is prepared to give Matthew his job back under two conditions. First, the staff must agree to clean up after him. And second, in order to keep from losing a big bet to media mogul Ted Turner, someone has to win the New York Corporate Charity Talent Show. But when Dave agrees to tap dance for Matthew's sake, Jimmy refuses to allow him to do the act. Meanwhile, as Bill lobbies to hire an attractive replacement for Catherine, Dave warns Lisa about revealing secrets about him that she learned during their relationship. As a result of her intimate knowledge of Dave, Lisa knows of another talent that could win the show and get Matthew re-hired. Yet, when pressed by Lisa, Dave refuses to either divulge his hidden talent or perform it in public. But after watching everyone else trying to get their acts together for the show, Dave realizes that he's Matthew's only hope and agrees to perform his knife throwing act. With Lisa as his assistant, Dave arrives at the show only to find his old knife throwing nemesis, Throwdini. And recalling an incident from their past, he suffers a lapse of confidence that causes him to drop out of the show. So Beth steps in to do her cabaret act with Bill at the piano. But after she bombs and Jimmy is certain he's lost, Matthew and his ventriloquist's dummy use the opportunity to explain his predicament, winning the audience's sympathy, their votes and, ultimately, his job.
Episode 63 - Season 4, Episode 10: Chock

Dave is surprised when David and Bob, a pair of old college friends and former singing partners, arrive to help him celebrate his birthday. Though having not performed together since 1988, Bob recalls making a pact to reunite their group, Chock Full O Notes, if none of them were married by age thirty-two. And while Dave tries to get out of it by claiming that the quartet isn't complete, their missing fourth member Brian shows up after a long drive from Arizona. Meanwhile, Lisa gets a bad reputation after she hurts Matthew's feelings. Despite Bob's quitting his job and Brian's canceling his wedding, David begins to suspect that Dave and the others don't want to reunite after all. However, just when Dave thinks he may be off the hook, Bob and Brian decline to back out on their agreement. When Dave can't bring himself to tell his old friends that he isn't really interested, Bill steps in and gives the three other members of the group his scathing opinion of their singing style. Meanwhile, Lisa continues to upset Matthew, leading Jimmy to suspect that they are having an affair. After being honest about his lack of interest in the reunion, Dave learns that David is only doing it because he doesn't want to disappoint their friends. But when Dave tries to get everyone to admit their true feelings, David fails to back him up. Meanwhile, Jimmy's efforts to keep Matthew's feelings intact at the office come to an end with the end of the work day. Finally, as they prepare to give him a musical good-bye, Dave's fellow Chock members find that they can no longer sing.
Episode 64 - Season 4, Episode 11: Who's the Boss

When Bill's unpredictability makes it difficult for Lisa to run the station, she and Dave devise a plan to make him realize just how tough the job is. While Lisa and Dave team up to force Bill into the top job, a labor strike forces Joe to picket the station. And as Joe tries to help Beth fill in for him, it's when the office coffee maker breaks down that Bill shows he knows more about running the station than anyone thought. As doing the news again rekindles Lisa's passion for radio, Dave finds Bill sitting at the piano he's brought into the office to help him think. When Dave finds his co-workers busy with meaningless projects, Bill claims that appearances are important, too. However, when Dave insists that Matthew and Beth stop their fake work tasks, Bill manages to shift the blame away from himself and onto Dave. Meanwhile, Jimmy tries persuading Joe to return to work. With Lisa at his side, Dave admits that making Bill the boss was all part of a plan to make him realize just how hard running the station can be. But when Lisa is asked to return to her job, she's reluctant to take responsibility again and asks Dave if he would do it instead. Finally, after a coin toss fails to settle who's in command, Jimmy gives in to a union demand that allows Joe to return to work.
Episode 65 - Season 4, Episode 12: Look Who's Talking

When Bill announces that he wants to adopt a baby, no one can believe it. And while Dave and Lisa try to explain just how hard it is to be a single parent, Bill is determined to follow through with the adoption regardless of the sacrifices. Meanwhile, Beth agrees to pose as a wealthy duchess in order to make the winning bid for Jimmy at a charity bachelor auction. As Joe helps Beth rehearse for her role as the Duchess of Greater North Chesterborough, Dave and Lisa arrange a field trip to a nearby playground to watch real parents in action. After watching Bill help comfort a crying child, Dave reconsiders his opinion of him as a father. However, Lisa wonders if he can provide the same highly structured upbringing her parents gave her. Meanwhile, Beth tells everyone at the auction that Joe is her homosexual escort. While at the adoption agency, Dave and Lisa argue over the merits of their respective childhoods while Bill passes the time talking to a couple who are there to adopt. But when Bill learns that it's only the beginning of a process that could take another five years before he gets a child, he's tempted to steal the other couple's baby. Finally, after Beth sneaks off with a wealthy patron's limousine driver, Joe scares away any potential bidders with an offer of $15,000 for Jimmy, reinforcing the belief that he's gay.
Episode 66 - Season 4, Episode 13: Who's the Boss: Part II

After a coin toss fails to determine who's the boss, Jimmy decides the staff should vote for either Dave or Lisa. As the reluctant candidates lobby for a job that neither really wants, Joe's brother Russ arrives to discuss plans for their parent's thirty-fifth wedding anniversary. Meanwhile, as tensions between the two estranged brothers erupt into violence, Matthew declares his own candidacy for office fire marshal. As Matthew prepares for an as-yet-to-be-identified opponent, Dave and Lisa participate in a debate at Jimmy's request. However, once they are interrupted by another Garelli brother's fight, Matthew seizes the opportunity to make his speech for the fire marshal's job. Then, even as the arrival of another brother cannot keep Russ and Joe's hostility in check, Dave quietly learns that the staff is supporting him. As Bill seeks Lisa's help in derailing Matthew's campaign, Dave tells her that he's likely to win the election with nearly unanimous staff support. But once the results prove otherwise, he realizes everyone was humoring him while intending to vote for Lisa all along. Yet when Jimmy realizes that the staff likes Lisa but respects Dave, he gives him his old job back anyway. Finally, as Dave learns the truth about the shaky support for Lisa, the eldest Garelli brother arrives to settle the score between Joe and Russ as Matthew loses his election despite being unopposed.
Episode 67 - Season 4, Episode 14: Big Brother

After signing up to be a Big Brother to a young boy, a mix up pairs Matthew with another adult named Danny. But Matthew doesn't see anything unusual about their relationship, and Danny realizes that Matthew is in need of someone to look after him. Meanwhile, after Dave reassumes control at the office, a leotard in Lisa's old desk convinces Bill that she's dating someone. And after Dave finds a pair of movie ticket stubs there, too, Bill concludes that it's Beth. Though Dave is reluctant to believe it, Joe agrees with Bill. And a surveillance videotape from the lobby convinces Jimmy, Bill and Joe that Lisa has been spending the night with someone. Meanwhile, when he and Danny are reluctant to break off their Big Brother-Little Brother relationship, Beth claims to have been Matthew's Big Sister for more than two years. But after they both take Matthew to the zoo, it's Danny and Beth who really hit it off. After spotting Danny and Beth kissing at the zoo, Matthew makes his way back to the office alone. And while she tries to cover by claiming they were looking for him, Beth still must agree to spend an entire day with Matthew. After a search of Lisa's phone records fails to identify her new lover, she and Dave are forced to admit that they've been sleeping together. And, finally, Lisa lets Dave know that, even though he has a date, she'll be waiting back at his apartment in order to have sex again.
Episode 68 - Season 4, Episode 15: Security Door

To stem a rash of thefts in the office, Dave installs a security door to keep out unwanted strangers. However, while Dave is intent on seeing that the station is safe, the rest of the staff sees it as an inconvenience to be circumvented. Meanwhile, as Jimmy carefully monitors the station's news broadcasts, Bill asks Lisa to be his agent for a television commercial. But he still can't keep from interfering with her negotiations. As Dave continues to tout their need for the door, his colleagues try to make it seem unnecessary, and even dangerous. While trying to prove its worthiness, Dave is accidentally locked outside without his key. So in an attempt to demonstrate it's need, he stages an elaborate presentation. Meanwhile, when Bill fears being taken advantage of in the TV commercial deal, Lisa tries to bolster his confidence. When Lisa joins Bill at the taping of his commercial, she's surprised to find he's taken an embarrassing role that could damage his credibility on the air. However, when she tries to intervene on his behalf, it turns out that Bill isn't embarrassed at all. Finally, the staff confronts Dave's fears in an intervention that ends up taking the station off the air. And though Jimmy is sure Dave is overreacting about their need for security, the theft of a briefcase proves otherwise.
Episode 69 - Season 4, Episode 16: Beep, Beep

Once he has determined that their productivity has been decreasing ever since they broke up, Jimmy encourages Dave and Lisa to reunite, or at least to start having sex again. Though unwilling to be pressured, Lisa gets Dave to agree that Jimmy's proposal may have merit. Meanwhile, as Bill interviews documentary filmmaker Ken Burns for Catherine's old job, Matthew gets a toy car for his birthday. As Jimmy works to create a romantic mood, Lisa and Dave agree to give him a chance. Failing to restart their sexual relationship, Jimmy lets Bill take a crack at it. But when he tries jealousy as a way of encouraging his sexual interest in Lisa, Dave refuses to take the bait. Meanwhile, an accident with his new toy car leaves Matthew despondent, until the woman he hit agrees to a date. Deciding that it might be just sex that motivates Dave and Lisa, Jimmy hires a pair of beautiful but incompetent assistants. As a result, Dave and Lisa decide that things have gotten out of hand. After reprimanding Bill for fabricating stories about having sex with her, Lisa then attacks Dave for believing them. And when Jimmy notices another spike in their productivity, he realizes that it happened when Dave and Lisa were arguing. Finally, as Matthew manages to get a date despite having lost his car, Dave and Lisa give their bickering a break until the following day.
Episode 70 - Season 4, Episode 17: Balloon

In order to outdo his fellow billionaires, Jimmy has decided to circle the globe alone in a hot air balloon. And despite the concerns of his staff over the danger, he calls a press conference before leaving with Joe for a secret rendezvous with his balloon. Meanwhile, when Bill gives up smoking for chewing tobacco, Dave struggles to keep him from using his coffee cup for a spittoon. Worried about their boss, Lisa, Matthew, Dave and Beth all watch attentively as a TV newscaster tracks Jimmy's progress. However, Dave realizes that something altogether different is going on when he spots Jimmy sneaking a cup of coffee from the station's break room. Chasing him to the basement, he discovers a TV studio in where Jimmy and Joe have masterminded an elaborate hoax. And while Dave won't go along with the ruse, he agrees to give Jimmy twelve hours to bring it to an honorable end. As Beth and Matthew continue to worry, Lisa also begins to suspect something's not right with the flight. And that's when Dave reveals Jimmy's secret and secures her promise not to tell. As news of a crash leaves Beth worried, Dave and Lisa watch from the makeshift studio as Jimmy claims it has brought his gallant attempt to an abrupt end. However, with some help from Joe, he manages to get in a plug for his own business first. Finally, as Jimmy promises Lisa a major news story in exchange for her silence, Bill gives up chewing tobacco, but not the nicotine.
Episode 71 - Season 4, Episode 18: Copy Machine

Following a tragic accident with the office copy machine, Dave announces the death of an accounting department employee. Because he didn't really know Ted, Dave has a hard time mustering much grief over the loss. However, as Jimmy tries to get Dave to let his feelings out, Joe reveals that it was his modifications to the copier that caused Ted's death. And despite Lisa's efforts to comfort him, the responsibility weighs heavily on Joe, who tries flushing his tools down a toilet to keep from ever working again. As Matthew and Beth try getting Dave to open up about his grief, Jimmy arrives with Ted's college roommate, Jack. Asked by the family to deliver a eulogy at the funeral, Jack wants to spend some time with Ted's colleagues to help him prepare. While Dave is honest about their limited contact, Bill doesn't hesitate to regale Jack with his fictional accounts of the late accountant's life. But when pressed for details, he passes Jack along to Beth as Lisa hounds Joe about returning to work. As Matthew offers Jack a song he claims to have written about Ted, Dave and Lisa set out to prove that the death was a freak accident. But as he's trying to convince Joe that it wasn't his fault, the demonstration backfires, jeopardizing Dave's life, too. Announcing he's going to fix the copy machine so that it can never kill again, Joe discovers that Ted's death was actually a suicide. Finally, after Jack admits to never liking Ted very much, it's left to Dave to deliver the eulogy at his funeral.
Episode 72 - Season 4, Episode 19: Monster Rancher

Under pressure, Dave agrees to hire Jimmy's nephew as the station's new intern. As Walt is sent to spend some time with Bill, Matthew reveals that he has romantic feelings for Lisa. Armed with Dave's permission, he then sets out to ask her on a date. However, faced with actually asking Lisa out, Matthew freezes. Meanwhile, Bill initiates Walt into the office routine with some hazing. After being reprimanded by Dave, Bill admits that the real reason behind his hazing is Walt's good looks. And when Beth admits to feeling threatened by the intern, too, Bill decides to start wearing make up in order to compete. Once Joe also turns against Walt, Dave apologizes for the staff's poor treatment. And that's when he finds that the young intern is quite familiar with his radio career. However, while Dave is sufficiently impressed to want to offer Walt a job, Jimmy decides to transfer him to another company. Despite being warned by Beth, Lisa cannot keep from accepting a date with Matthew. As Lisa does her best to let him down easy on their date, Matthew takes her response to heart as she agrees to join him on the dance floor. Finally, Dave gives Walt some tips on dealing with a woman he admires from afar, only to discover that it's Lisa.
Episode 73 - Season 4, Episode 20: 4:20

After inviting everyone to an evening at his men's club, Jimmy announces that the entertainment will be an all-out fight between Matthew and Joe. And while Joe worries about hurting him, Matthew is ready to rumble. Meanwhile, after reminding Dave about the crush Walt has on her, Bill desperately wants Lisa to discuss her love life with him. In addition to Joe, both Lisa and Beth are concerned for Matthew's safety. But, despite being warned of the potentially disastrous consequences, Matthew refuses to back down, relishing the opportunity to take on Joe in a fight to the finish. Meanwhile, as Lisa starts enjoying his attention, Walt decides to ask her on a date. After discovering Lisa is going with him to the men's club along with everyone else, Dave tries to dampen Walt's expectations. And as Bill uses the phone to quiz Lisa about her relationship with Walt, Beth joins Dave at the fight where Matthew's tickling gets Joe to concede. Finally, as Lisa fills Dave in on her evening with Walt, Bill warns that Jimmy's nephew is about to steal her away.
Episode 74 - Season 4, Episode 21: Jackass Junior High

When Beth's vacation leaves Lisa as the only woman at the office, her co-workers soon start treating her just like one of the guys. When she gets someone to fill while Beth is away, the men suddenly reverse their loutish behavior. But Lisa's reaction ends up scaring their temp away. Meanwhile, Bill is offended when Dave hires a voice actor for some new commercials. After declaring the building a historic landmark, Jimmy tries to take advantage of a generous tax loophole by providing guided tours. As the tours disrupt work at the station, Bill lobbies for the chance at the new commercials. But once Dave and Jimmy hear the actor they hired in action, they're convinced they made the right choice. Although reluctant after what she's already seen, Lisa joins everyone in the break room where the men are holding a very proper and civilized tea party. While sure that they are simply mocking her, Lisa fails to realize that the tea party is a regular Wednesday afternoon affair. Finally, with Bill depressed over not getting the job, Dave enlists his colleagues at the station in an effort to lift his spirits. But he's taken aback when Bill turns his harsh imitation against him.
Episode 75 - Season 4, Episode 22: Sinking Ship

Instead of working at WNYX, the "NewsRadio" cast are the crew aboard the ocean liner, the Titanic. With Dave as its captain and Jimmy the fateful ship's owner, their colleagues serve as the rest of the crew, from the aristocratic and stuffy Bill down to the lowly and impoverished Walt. As Dave puts Matthew on iceberg watch, Bill complains about Walt being allowed out of steerage. And while Bill warns of the dire consequences of allowing the upper and lower classes to mix, Matthew refuses to take his job seriously. Warned of Walt's designs on Lisa, Dave gives her an elaborate and expensive diamond necklace for her birthday. But as Bill continues to try and convince Dave that strong action against Walt is justified, Matthew's inattentiveness causes the great ship to hit an iceberg. And as Jimmy and Joe try to convince everyone that things are fine, they begin to sink. As Joe struggles to stop the leak that is taking them down, Walt is determined to sketch Lisa's portrait as a birthday gift. But she would rather devote her attention to getting herself and her collection of artwork safely off the ship. As Joe comes to grips with the magnitude of the disaster, Jimmy and Dave pledge to go down with the ship as Bill looks for a way to save himself. And as Dave and Jimmy die while Lisa tries making it to New York on her own, Bill and Matthew are left to try and survive together.
Episode 76 - Season 5, Episode 1: Bill Moves On

Following Bill's death from a heart attack, his colleagues at WNYX mourn him at a memorial service. And though everyone agrees that Dave's two hour-plus eulogy was awful, they refuse to admit it to his face. Meanwhile, when Matthew claims that Bill isn't really dead, Lisa disagrees with the decision to humor him for awhile. As the staff shares how they dealt with their grief over Bill's passing, Lisa admits to drinking heavily for a few days and quickly gets a reputation as an alcoholic. Then, in an effort to make up for his poor performance at the memorial service, Dave insists on re-editing his eulogy. And when pressed to give his candid assessment of the speech, Jimmy tries to make Dave feel better by admitting that it was horrible. As former news anchor Catherine Duke arrives from London just in time to miss the funeral, Dave produces envelopes for everyone that Bill left to be opened after his death. After Matthew distributes a series of personal notes from Bill, everyone is asked to read theirs aloud to the group. And as they each read an apology for something he had done to them in the past, Matthew learns that Bill is really dead. Finally, as they all come to grips with their loss, everyone steals something from Bill's office to remember him by.
Episode 77 - Season 5, Episode 2: Meet the Max Louis

As a result of an exhaustive search, Dave has narrowed the field of highly qualified candidates to replace Bill. But a look through the rejects' resumes leads everyone else to settle on Max Louis -- an old friend of Bill's who hasn't been able to hold down a job for the past twenty years. And at the insistence of the staff, Dave consents to give Max a try. Meanwhile, Joe's efforts to protect their computers against the Millennium Bug causes the office's electronic devices to self-destruct. Having been fired so many times in the past has placed a heavy load on Max. Even though he is ready to move on before he can get started, Dave insists that, regardless of what happens, Max isn't about to be fired. Yet, once everyone gets a chance to meet him and they demand he be let go at once, Dave says they will now have to live with their choice and guarantees Max that his job is absolutely safe for the next two weeks. Upon learning that his employment is a sure thing for now, Max begins to display the kind of behavior that's led to him losing so many jobs before. Realizing his mistake, Dave doesn't hesitate to get Jimmy's permission to fire him. However, after the staff now balks at the idea, Dave is persuaded to give Max a chance after hearing his first broadcast -- and right before Joe's pre-Millennium Bug takes the station off the air.
Episode 78 - Season 5, Episode 3: Lucky Burger

Having decided that he should have been promoted to replace Bill, Matthew sets out on a campaign to get Max fired. However, when Dave refuses to do anything about it and Matthew enlists Joe in an effort to discredit Max, they discover his resume isn't all that it appears. Meanwhile, Jimmy sends Lisa undercover to expose a restaurant's unsanitary practices. Alerted to the problems with his resume, Dave calls Max in to his office to explain. And after Beth finds him hiding in the men's room, Max explains that no one at any of the stations he worked at remembers him because he used a different name and different persona at each job. Meanwhile, as a result of her hard work at Lucky Burger, Lisa is promoted to assistant manager. So, when Jimmy presses her to finish up her investigation, she claims that all the problems at the restaurant have been fixed. Even as Matthew steps up his campaign to have him fired, Max attempts to create a new identity for his job at WNYX. However, when he uses a foreign accent to read the news, Dave insists on Max just being himself or risk losing his job. And though Max claims that he's just too weird to be on the radio, Dave asks that he just take a look around at his co-workers before deciding. Finally, Lisa's job at Lucky Burger comes to a grinding halt after she tries to bribe a health inspector.
Episode 79 - Season 5, Episode 4: Noise

When a physical indicates that Dave's blood pressure is on the rise, Jimmy worries about what all the stress at work is doing to him. To calm him down, Joe builds Dave a powerful white noise generator. And while skeptical at first, it doesn't take long for Dave to become addicted to the machine's soothing sounds. Meanwhile, as he and Lisa square off over her new on-air history segments, Max asks Beth to make Matthew to stop hating him. After Beth convinces Matthew to treat him with some tender loving care, Max upsets Lisa by going on the air with a history segment of his own. But when Lisa tries to complain, she finds that, because of the white noise machine's effect, Dave doesn't care. After Matthew fails to snap him out of it, Lisa intervenes by removing the generator from Dave's office. However, when he simply follows her around, Lisa's efforts only end up causing problems for everyone else, too. With Dave back in his office, Max irritates Lisa by interrupting her latest history moment with one of his own. When she complains, Jimmy realizes that Dave is too blissed out to handle the station's problems anymore. But, as he tries to intervene, Jimmy also falls under the machine's soothing spell. Finally, as Lisa strikes back on the air, Matthew exercises some motherly oversight of Max. And while Joe rescues Dave, he leaves Jimmy blissfully under the spell of the machine.
Episode 80 - Season 5, Episode 5: Flowers for Matthew

To test the effectiveness of a new intelligence drink, Joe uses Matthew as his subject. Though skeptical at first , Dave and Jimmy are surprised when it seems to demonstrate some impressive results. And as Matthew asks for meatier assignments as a result of his newfound intelligence, Jimmy sees some real possibilities for him and Joe to make a lot of money. Meanwhile, tired of listening to Max talk about his lust for Beth, Lisa sets out to get him a date. After Lisa tells her about the crush Max has on her, Beth confronts him. But Max panics at the sudden attention and claims it's Lisa who has a crush on him. And even as Lisa tries to set the record straight, Max cannot bring himself to let Beth know what he really thinks. Meanwhile, as Matthew plows through a complex analysis of the city budget while simultaneously reading four books, Jimmy and Joe lay plans to make a fortune off the smart drink. As Joe and Jimmy hurry to document his sudden increase in intelligence, Dave finds himself drawn to the new Matthew. Hoping to make themselves smarter, Jimmy and Joe begin drinking the concoction, too. But when Matthew's intelligence allows him to see that the drink is really just a placebo, the effects begin to wear off. Meanwhile, despite her efforts to keep Max at a distance, Lisa cannot convince Beth that she's the one he's after. And after Beth insists she can have him, Lisa forces Max to tell the truth, killing any chances he may have had for a romance.
Episode 81 - Season 5, Episode 6: Jail

When Mathew suggests doing a story on the legendary hijacker D.B. Cooper, both Jimmy and Dave are against it. However, when Jimmy is suddenly arrested and charged with the nearly three-decades-old hijacking, one of his managers arrives to oversee the station. Meanwhile, as Beth and Joe make plans to break him out of jail, Lisa's investigation begins to uncover evidence that suggests Jimmy is really D.B. Cooper. As a result, Dave puts Matthew on the story to keep from uncovering evidence that would harm their boss. Upon arriving from his post in Kuala Lampur, Johnny Johnson immediately begins to take charge at WNYX. While Dave is impressed with his ability to charm the staff, Jimmy tells Mathew that he must be fired at once. As Johnny continues to impress, Mathew finally gets around to delivering Jimmy's dire warning. So, as plans for a prison break continue to unfold, Jimmy notes that Johnny is out to take over his entire corporate empire and orders Dave to stop him. When Dave has trouble dislodging Johnny from the job, he seeks Lisa's help. But with the staff solidly behind him, the new boss can't be moved. And even though Dave insists he leave, Johnny suggests that he has enough evidence to tie the D.B. Cooper hijacking to Jimmy. Finally, when Jimmy manages to escape from the Federal Detention Center on his own, Johnny is forced to abandon his plans to take over the James business empire.
Episode 82 - Season 5, Episode 7: The Lam

As Dave is being grilled by the FBI as to Jimmy's whereabouts, Johnny Johnson continues endearing himself to the rest of the station's staff. Recognizing his evil intentions, Dave asks Lisa for help, only to find that she, too, has fallen under Johnny's spell. Meanwhile, a phone call reveals that Jimmy is hiding at Dave's boyhood home in Wisconsin. And when Jimmy orders Dave to get the green duffel bag that could implicate him in he D.B. Cooper hijacking, Lisa insists on using her seductive ways to get it. While Dave has his doubts, he has no choice but to accept her offer. But instead of getting the bag, Lisa is stunned when Johnny asks her to get married. Despite knowing that he's evil, Lisa cannot decide what to do about Johnny's proposal. As everyone else urges her to accept, Dave turns to Johnny to warn him to keep away from Lisa. Meanwhile, Johnny sends Matthew in an assignment to find Jimmy. When Johnny offers to turn over the duffel bag to him if only Lisa will accept his proposal, Dave sets out to get her to agree to the marriage. However, after Dave admits to hoping they would one day get back together, Lisa is't so sure about what to do. With Jimmy and Matthew holed up in Dave's childhood bedroom, Lisa decides to turn down Johnny's proposal. As a result, Johnny gets revenge by giving the bag to Dave before calling the FBI and getting him blamed for Jimmy and Matthew's subsequent arrest.
Episode 83 - Season 5, Episode 8: Clash of the Titans

As Johnny is starting to celebrate his successful takeover of the James corporate empire, Jimmy prepares to mount a defense in the D.B. Cooper hijacking trial. With the case looking grim, even Dave sees that he'll probably be working for Johnny soon. However, when Jimmy reveals the identity of the real D.B. Cooper, actor Adam West comes forward to accept responsibility for the nearly three decades old crime. Back at the station, Jimmy discovers that Board of Directors has made Johnny the new CEO. Realizing that he's lost the battle to control the business, Jimmy agrees to leave, accepting ownership of a string of failing Internet cafes long with his choice of one employee. In a last ditch effort to see the business restored to its rightful owner, Lisa offers to marry Johnny if only he'll return the company to Jimmy. But after Johnny turns his own charms on Lisa, Joe challenges him to a fight to the finish, only to have his efforts undermined when Matthew backs him up. Despite his claims to the contrary, Max is barely able to conceal his loyalty to Johnny. When Dave refuses his new boss's friendship, he's demoted to reporter as Johnny makes himself news director. But the ploy backfires when Jimmy turns around and chooses Johnny as the employee he wants. And just as quickly as he's made his choice, he fires Johnny and restores the corporate order.
Episode 84 - Season 5, Episode 9: Boston

As Dave prepares an inspirational videotape as a favor to his old high school English teacher, Max points out that Lisa has a speech impediment. And it's only after he offers to help correct it that Lisa discovers everyone else agrees he's right. While helping tape Dave's speech, Joe listens as he encourages Mr. Thernstrom's students to set high goals. Pointing to his own disastrous experience in college, Joe asks Dave to not repeat his mistakes and to tell the students to aim low. Meanwhile, a suspected case of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome sidelines Beth. As he works on Lisa's speech problem, it doesn't take long for Max's efforts to bring back a working class Boston accent that she's successfully hidden for many years. Though her colleagues at the radio station have a field day making fun of her, Lisa proudly embraces her working class background. But once Jimmy hears her on the air, he decides to take matters into his own hands. Meanwhile, when he overhears Dave recommend that the students follow their hearts, Jimmy suggests otherwise. As Beth take Joe aside to admit she's faking her injuries in order to cover up an embarrassing nail polish job, Max tells Dave not to pay any attention to everyone's suggestions about the tape. Yet, after defending his co-workers, Dave then sets out to finish his speech while Jimmy works on Lisa. Finally, Dave completes the speech and sends it off, unaware that Mr. Thernstrom is really in the hospital for the mentally ill.
Episode 85 - Season 5, Episode 10: Spooky Rapping Crypt

To boost employee morale, Jimmy wants to create a profit sharing plan at the station. However, when Beth beats him to the punch and asks for one herself, Jimmy decides he cannot give in to her demands, even though he just had the same idea himself. Meanwhile, following his first session with a therapist, Matthew accuses Lisa of ritual satanic abuse. Though Beth offers to negotiate, Jimmy declares he will bury her. And when Dave is unable to reveal the truth behind their boss's hard line stance, Beth decides she has no other alternative but to quit. Seeing Jimmy despondent over her leaving, Dave suggests simply telling Beth the truth about his plans. But Jimmy still won't give in for fear of appearing weak. Meanwhile, even though the evidence of Lisa's satanic connections are just Halloween decorations, Joe encourages Matthew to torment her anyway. When Beth returns to the office to inspire her former co-workers to rise up against Jimmy, Dave suggests that giving up her crusade for profit sharing will get her exactly what it is she wants. When Jimmy insists she be evicted from the office and threatens Beth with arrest if she ever returns, Dave arranges for a face to face meeting between them. And once Dave reveals the truth behind Jimmy's original plan, Beth backs down. Finally, Lisa decides it's easier to agree with Matthew than to fight him.
Episode 86 - Season 5, Episode 11: Stinkbutt

After Beth persuades the building supervisor to let all the tenants paint corporate murals in the lobby, Dave gives her the day off to finish the one for WNYX. As Beth enlists Joe to help, Jimmy arrives at work with his new personal security consultant, Jack Frost, who Max immediately recognizes as the imposter who once took out his appendix in an emergency operation. Meanwhile, Lisa is irritated when Matthew starts dressing just like her. Despite Max's warnings, neither Dave nor Jimmy see anything unusual about Jack. As Max sets out to get revenge on his own, Beth and Joe argue over just what the office's mural should look like. However, once they are done, it's left to Dave to defend their work from the building supervisor's angry attack. Meanwhile, in an effort to get Jimmy to listen, Max tells him of the appendectomy Jack performed almost eight years ago and recounts other instances where he pretended to be someone he's not. When questioned by Jimmy, Jack insists that he's a real security consultant -- until a chance to pose as the station's news anchor ultimately proves Max's accusation. As Lisa gets revenge by convincing Matthew to dress like him, Dave prepares to defend Beth and Joe's artwork from being censored. Yet, despite his vigorous defense, he cannot keep the building manager from painting over the mural. And following his own encounter with Jack, Matthew is surprised to find himself at work without any clothes on.
Episode 87 - Season 5, Episode 12: Assistant

When her contract reveals that she's entitled to an assistant, Lisa hires the lovely Foxy Jones. After getting one look at Foxy, Joe cannot keep from trying to get a date, forcing Lisa to seek Dave's help. But when he intervenes, Lisa suddenly sees that Dave and Foxy are also developing a liking for one another. Meanwhile, when Max complains about the ladies room having a couch, Jimmy installs one in the men's room, too. Yet, after Matthew and Max are both dissatisfied with a love seat, Jimmy converts their bathroom into a plush private club. As Foxy and Dave's attraction to one another grows, Lisa finds that she's getting virtually no work out of her new assistant. Unwilling to be pushed aside, Joe continues to court Foxy. But when she makes it clear that she's interested in Dave, Joe admits defeat. In retaliation for being banned from the women's lounge, Matthew imposes a similar ban on Beth when she wants to use the new men's room. However, when pressed, Matthew, Jimmy and Max all agree to consider her for membership in their exclusive new club. When Dave suggests keeping their budding romance under control at the office, he learns that Foxy is also interested in Joe. But when the two men can't agree to share her, she dumps them both. Meanwhile, following her membership interview, Beth is allowed in the new men's lounge. However, the clubby atmosphere is ruined when Matthew breaks the unspoken rule and uses the bathroom facilities. And once everyone else agrees, Jimmy returns the room back to its original condition. Finally, after Foxy quits, Lisa and Dave are left to discuss the futility of office romances.
Episode 88 - Season 5, Episode 13: Apartment

When they both find themselves looking at the same apartment, Dave and Lisa each ask for a personal reference from their boss. Unable to make up his mind, Jimmy turns to the staff for their advice. But even Dave and Lisa's courting Matthew's vote by submitting to a series of questions fails to break the deadlock. Meanwhile, Jimmy gives Joe one day to improve the station's shabby Internet web page. In order to aid in their decision, the staff asks to see the apartment for themselves. While it doesn't help with the choice between Dave and Lisa, it does inspire Max to want the apartment for himself. And after persuading the landlady to accept just one more application, Max joins Dave and Lisa in their race. Meanwhile, Joe casts Beth, Matthew and Max in an outrageous soap opera to boost the visibility of WNYX's website. After giving each of the candidates a chance to state their views, Jimmy is prepared to let the rest of the staff choose which one gets the apartment. But when Beth, Joe and Matthew split their votes three ways, he decides to break the deadlock by having Dave, Lisa and Max each make their case over the Internet. And when she enlists a dog whose life would be in danger if she doesn't get the apartment, Lisa wins by a landslide. Finally, seeing the vote as the website's finest moment, Jimmy decides to close it down.
Episode 89 - Season 5, Episode 14: Towers

In an effort to immortalize himself, Jimmy announces that he's putting up the world's tallest building -- a pair of office towers in the shape of his initials. But his plan faces a setback when Lisa reveals that he'll need the approval of the city's Landmark's Preservation Bureau. Meanwhile, not even a party can keep Matthew from getting depressed on his thirtieth birthday. As a result, he rebels by becoming an authentic British punk rocker. Once Lisa breaks the story of his plans on the air, the public outcry against Jimmy's project is immediate and harsh. As a result, the city revokes its permits, forcing him to abandon the project. Meanwhile, as Matthew delves deeper into his new punk persona, Dave employs some reverse psychology in hopes of getting him back to work. In an effort to restore Jimmy's dream of a legacy, Lisa proposes everything from building a bridge to creating theme park. But Jimmy's faith in himself is finally restored when he decides to build the towers anyway-- in London! Finally, Joe and Dave team up and convince Matthew to give up his punk rock stance.
Episode 90 - Season 5, Episode 15: Hair

As Jimmy prepares to meet with a young computer genius about a new business venture, he asks Dave to join them in order to make the atmosphere less intimidating. However, when the longhaired Erik Stark arrives, Jimmy orders Dave to get rid of him at once. When pressed for a reason, Jimmy admits to an irrational fear of men with long hair as the result of a thirty-year-old incident in which some hippies beat him up. Meanwhile, as Lisa is training her new dog, Beth and Max conspire to break almost all of Daisy's good habits. When Joe recommends hypnotism, Jimmy allows himself to be taken back in time to face his fears. With Matthew at his side, he makes his way through the office, circa 1968. However, when Matthew becomes a problem, Jimmy demands that he be removed from the hypnotic state, leaving him to go on alone. Meanwhile, after ruining Daisy's highly regimented diet, Beth and Max try to change her name. And once Lisa forbids her from playing with Daisy, both Beth and the dog disappear. At Dave's request, Joe brings Jimmy out of his trance. But when Joe insists on putting him back under, Jimmy thinks that he, Dave and Lisa are hippies. And when Matthew is accidentally hypnotized again, he also ends up back in Jimmy's dream. Finally, as a result of the hypnotism, Jimmy realizes that a gang of bikers, not hippies, attacked thirty years ago. And while Jimmy's fear is cured, Beth finally returns with Lisa's dog.
Episode 91 - Season 5, Episode 16: Wino

During an encounter with a violent beggar, Matthew is saved by Jimmy's archrival, Johnny Johnson. Though Jimmy made sure he was penniless following the attempt to gain control of the company, Johnny is still determined to make good on his promise to marry Lisa. But, while everyone else is convinced that it's Lisa he wants, Joe is certain that Johnny has other motives in mind. While disappointed to learn that he didn't completely crush Johnny, Jimmy offers to help him in his quest for Lisa. And when Joe accuses him of plotting to destroy Jimmy's empire, Johnny makes it clear that he isn't a threat. However, after helping to get Johnny cleaned up, Jimmy enlists Lisa in another effort to break him. And though she tries, Lisa cannot resist Johnny's charms. Realizing that she's too weak to say no, Dave agrees to deliver Lisa's refusal to Johnny. With Joe continuing to carefully guard Jimmy's interests, Johnny insists on hearing Lisa turn him down in person. But when she finds the strength to do it, Jimmy and Max accuse her of being heartless. Finally, as everyone searches the local subway station for him in order to apologize, Johnny's charms are too much for Lisa to resist.
Episode 92 - Season 5, Episode 17: The Wedding

As Lisa asks Jimmy to stand in and give her away when her father refuses to attend her wedding, Dave sets out to persuade her not to marry Johnny Johnson. However, Dave's efforts are set back when Johnny asks him to be the best man. And though Lisa admits that marrying Johnny is irrational, she still refuses to reconsider. Meanwhile, as Matthew throws a bachelor party at work, Dave agrees to be the best man, if only to keep the honor from going to Max. Once everyone arrives at Jimmy's estate for the wedding, Dave does his best to move things along to where he can object to the union. But even Dave's pointing out that the groom is a homeless drunk fails to derail the marriage. However, when he and Lisa are pronounced man and wife, Johnny is arrested and taken to jail when the ring he gave her turns out to be stolen. Although Jimmy offers the best lawyers money can buy, Johnny chooses to accept his punishment. Admitting that Dave was right all along, Lisa wants the marriage annulled. But when Dave makes a humorous observation about the bright side of having a husband in prison, she changes her mind. Finally, still unable to set aside her feelings for Johnny, Lisa takes everyone to the jail to finish the wedding, even as Dave tries getting her to reconsider one last time.
Episode 93 - Season 5, Episode 18: Ploy

When Max announces that he's quitting, Dave is more than happy to let him go. But when Beth claims that it's only because she hasn't given in to Max's request for a date, Jimmy asks Dave to talk him out of leaving. And when confronted about his choice, Max admits it's all a ploy to get Beth in bed. Meanwhile, Joe and Matthew disagree over Lisa's changing her name now that she's married. In order to keep Beth from learning the truth, Max asks Dave for help. To allow Max to save face, Jimmy orders Dave to let the staff see him begging him to stay. But even though Dave complies, Max still bolts. Meanwhile, as Joe insists that Lisa's name has value for her career, Matthew tries coming up with one that's more exciting. With Max gone, Beth is convinced that he wasn't faking it after all. Playing along, Dave doesn't admit to groveling as a way of getting Max to stay. After tracking him down in the men's bathroom, Dave suggests that Max's ploy may be working after all. But when Beth agrees to kiss him, she decides that Max is just too disgusting after all. Finally, the squabble between Lisa, Joe and Matthew reveals that Jimmy owns the rights to all their names.
Episode 94 - Season 5, Episode 19: Padded Suit

Having finally had enough of the staff's lax behavior, Dave wants to set an example by firing someone. As an alternative, Lisa recommends giving them one more chance by asking everyone to submit a written description of their job. After receiving Lisa's forty-page submission, Dave asks for the others at a staff meeting. However, when everyone else falls short, he's still intent on letting someone go. As he and Max turn to Joe for martial arts lessons, a protective suit makes Matthew feel invincible to everything, including Dave's threats. And after deciding that once a year is too limiting, Jimmy sends Beth out to collect all the Mother's Day cards she can find before setting out to make every day one to celebrate mothers. After begging everyone to comply with Dave's request, Lisa is surprised when Jimmy takes to the air to announce his Million Mommas March on Washington, D.C. While a compassionate gesture towards Matthew causes to Max lose all respect for Joe's teachings, it doesn't take Dave long to realize that the job descriptions he's received were all written by Lisa. As Jimmy admits that the reason behind his efforts to honor mothers is because he forget his own mom's birthday, Lisa finally loses her patience, too, and recommends that someone be fired. But she soon finds that Dave has changed his mind after being allowed to take out his frustrations on Matthew's padded suit.
Episode 95 - Season 5, Episode 20: Freaky Friday

Having agreed to switch jobs for a day, Jimmy goes to work as a reporter at the station while Matthew becomes a tycoon. But as Dave keeps Jimmy from trying to make news that he can then cover, Matthew calls on Joe for help to turn on the computer in his new office. Meanwhile, after Dave bars Max from the breakroom for stealing food, Beth is caught using false names to cash in on a free CD offer. Out of boredom, Jimmy decides to do a little trading in the stock market for Matthew. But Matthew's efforts to do the same in his boss's account cost Jimmy his entire multi-billion dollar fortune. Meanwhile, as Beth tries enlisting the staff in an effort to hide her stolen CD's, Dave keeps Max from eating anywhere at the station. With Dave doing everything he can to keep Jimmy from killing Matthew, Beth resigns herself to the fact that her CD scam is going to send her to jail. However, when the investigator offers her $1,000 in cash to never discuss how she managed to get all the CD's, Beth is relieved. After deciding to forgive Matthew and get on with rebuilding his fortune, Jimmy learns that it was all a mistake and that he's still very rich. Finally, Max tricks Dave into restoring his breakroom privileges.
Episode 96 - Season 5, Episode 21: Retirement

After asking the staff about what they want to do in the future, Jimmy talks about selling everything and moving to a small New England town. But it still comes as a surprise when he claims that he's put the station up for sale so he can move to New Hampshire. And while Dave is sure it's a bluff, Lisa is convinced that Jimmy is serious. As Lisa sets Max to work listening for anything that would hint at the truth about Jimmy's plans, Matthew worries that a new owner would certainly fire him. In an effort to help him find another job, Beth and Joe team up to teach Matthew how to interview. Meanwhile, as Lisa begins making plans for a retirement party that will convince Jimmy to stay, Dave still suspects that all talk of leaving will be forgotten by the following day. As Matthew is prepared for a future as an astronaut, Lisa forges ahead with her plans for a modest retirement party, only to have Beth go overboard with a lavishly produced banquet. After a brief toast from Joe and a special song from Max, Matthew provides a farewell dance routine. When called on to speak, Dave simply asks that the ruse be dropped so everyone, including Jimmy, can get back to work. However, once the banquet is over, everyone is surprised when Jimmy actually leaves for a new life in New Hampshire.
Episode 97 - Season 5, Episode 22: New Hampshire

Following Jimmy's departure, the station staff is too despondent to work. Insisting that his absence is only temporary, Dave feels vindicated when Jimmy returns. However, after announcing that he's back just long enough to complete the sale of the station, Jimmy takes Dave aside to complain about being lonely and asks him to move to New Hampshire, too. After insisting that he can spare no one, Dave reconsiders and suggests that Jimmy take Matthew instead. While Matthew suspects some powerful reverse psychology is being employed to get him to accept the offer, Beth, Lisa and Joe all agree that he would never make it outside New York. However, when Jimmy suggests that they all come along, Dave must then keep everyone from defecting. Meanwhile, after Matthew accepts the offer, Lisa decides to follow Jimmy to New Hampshire for the upcoming presidential primary election. In the wake of Lisa's resignation, Dave learns that Beth and Max are going to New Hampshire, too. And though she's upset with the idea that he would let her go so easily, it's only after she's taken her revenge that Beth learns Dave really tried to keep her. With Max and Lisa gone, Dave turns the on air duties over to Joe. But when Joe is also persuaded to accept Jimmy's offer, Dave is left as WNYX's last employee. However, just when he thinks he's alone, Dave discovers that Matthew has decided to stay in New York after all.


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