In this deep-dive Ask Me (Bart) Anything episode of Simpsons Declassified, legendary showrunner and writer Dave Mirkin joins Nancy Cartwright for an uncensored, laugh-packed, and surprisingly emotional conversation about what truly made The Simpsons endure. Pulled directly from fan questions, the episode explores how iconic characters like Bart, Homer, Marge, Ralph, and Lisa were written—and why Bart’s rebellious genius came straight from Dave’s own childhood as a “school terror.” Dave explains why Bart isn’t dumb, just misunderstood, and how that philosophy shaped some of the show’s most memorable episodes. Fans get rare behind-the-scenes stories about celebrity guest stars, including why stars like Paul McCartney, James Taylor, and Sting only appeared briefly, and how Meryl Streep’s turn as Bart’s girlfriend became one of the show’s most unforgettable performances. Dave also shares hilarious, candid stories about directing legends like Kirk Douglas and Mickey Rooney, plus the real rules behind cameo casting versus full-character roles. The conversation dives into the evolution of animation, from hand-painted cels to digital color—and why Dave believes modern perfection has stripped away some of the “human breathing” that made early Simpsons episodes feel alive. He also tackles AI, technology, and why human imperfection is essential to art. Of course, no Simpsons Declassified episode is complete without chaos: expect multiple donut tastings, brutally honest ratings, one donut declared a “hostile food,” and another crowned a true Homer-level classic. Thoughtful, hilarious, irreverent, and deeply insightful, this episode is a must-listen for Simpsons fans, animation writers, voice actors, and anyone who loves the messy humanity behind great storytelling. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Voice acting legend Maurice LaMarche (Pinky and the Brain, Futurama, The Simpsons, Zootopia) joins Nancy Cartwright for an unforgettable, laugh-out-loud episode of Simpsons Declassified packed with fan questions, iconic voices, and surprising emotional depth. From the very start, Maurice dives into classic characters as fans ask about world domination schemes, the genius of Pinky and the Brain, and why the show’s rare moments of heart made it so timeless. He breaks down why the writing was so strong that ad-libbing was rarely needed—and how the “informed idiot vs. uninformed idiot” dynamic made the series work. Simpsons fans will love the deep cuts, including Maurice’s first Simpsons contribution (yes, it involved legendary burps), behind-the-scenes stories from The Critic crossover, video game voice sessions, theme park recordings, and why writers eventually “write to the actor’s voice.” There’s also a masterclass in belch technique, complete with live demonstrations and tongue placement tips you probably didn’t know you needed. Of course, no Simpsons Declassified episode is complete without chaos—enter multiple donut tasting segments, complete with synchronized bites, accidental finger chomping, brutally honest ratings, and one donut that earns a historic minus-one score. The episode takes a powerful turn as Maurice opens up about loss, recovery, creativity, and resilience, sharing why comedy matters—especially now—and how making people laugh for even a few minutes can genuinely change lives. He also teases future projects, including Zootopia 2, possible Futurama returns, and a deeply personal one-man show inspired by his own life journey. Funny, raw, nostalgic, and unexpectedly moving, this episode is a must-listen for Simpsons fans, animation lovers, voice actors, and anyone who believes laughter really can save the world. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Legendary voice actor Rob Paulsen (Animaniacs, Pinky and the Brain, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) joins Nancy Cartwright for a wildly funny, deeply moving, and fan-driven episode of Simpsons Declassified. Packed with Ask Me (Bart) Anything–style questions, this episode blends laugh-out-loud improv with genuine life wisdom from one of animation’s most beloved voices. Rob and Nancy answer fan questions ranging from the weirdest lines ever requested, favorite Bart Simpson prank calls, and unforgettable recording moments that nearly broke the cast with laughter. Simpsons fans and animation lovers alike will enjoy rapid-fire improv, classic character voices, and spontaneous moments that only happen when two animation legends are in the room together. The episode takes a heartfelt turn as Rob opens up about his battle with stage-three throat cancer, sharing how humor, gratitude, and perspective carried him through the most difficult chapter of his life. His story is powerful, hopeful, and deeply inspiring—especially for creatives navigating fear, uncertainty, or major life challenges. Listeners also get a behind-the-scenes masterclass in voice acting, auditioning, and character creation, as Rob explains how voices evolve, why bold choices matter, and what makes animation such a uniquely collaborative art form. From Animaniacs reboot stories to reflections on Phil Hartman, Steven Spielberg, and decades of animation history, this episode is packed with insight and nostalgia. Of course, no Simpsons Declassified episode would be complete without chaos—enter the donut tasting segment, complete with ratings, laughter, and some truly questionable bite coordination. Funny, heartfelt, nostalgic, and uplifting, this episode celebrates creativity, resilience, and the simple power of making people laugh—straight from two of the most iconic voices in animation history. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special Ask Me (Bart) Anything episode of Simpsons Declassified, Nancy Cartwright—the iconic voice of Bart Simpson—is joined by Sofy for a fan-driven conversation packed with behind-the-scenes stories, laughs, and classic Simpsons energy. Pulled straight from fan questions, this AMA covers everything fans have always wanted to know about Bart, voice acting, and life inside Springfield. Nancy shares candid insights into performing Bart across decades, switching between characters, and how she keeps the voice fresh after thousands of episodes. Along the way, she reflects on career lessons, creative instincts, and the unexpected moments that shaped one of television’s most recognizable voices. The episode blends heartfelt storytelling with playful banter as Nancy and Sofy react to fan prompts, riff on Bart’s personality, and explore what makes The Simpsons endure across generations. From vocal technique and character evolution to fan culture and personal growth, this AMA feels intimate, funny, and unscripted—just like Bart himself. Whether you’re a lifelong Simpsons fan or discovering the magic behind Bart Simpson for the first time, this episode delivers insider knowledge, warmth, and plenty of “Eat My Shorts” energy—straight from the source. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Legendary voice actor, Dungeon Master, and Critical Role creator Matt Mercer joins Simpsons Declassified for an unforgettable crossover of animation, fantasy, and storytelling. From rolling dice to reimagining Springfield as a tabletop campaign, this episode blends Dungeons & Dragons, voice acting, and The Simpsons in a way only Matt Mercer can. Matt walks listeners through a live D&D roleplay demo, guiding Nancy Cartwright into an improvised fantasy adventure that perfectly explains how tabletop storytelling works—choices, dice rolls, danger, humor, and heart included. Whether you’re brand new to D&D or a longtime fan, this segment makes the magic instantly click. The conversation dives deep into world-building, including how Matt created Exandria (Zandra), his inspirations from Tolkien, sci-fi legends, Final Fantasy, and why fantasy worlds can empower people to make the real world better. He explains the difference between preparing as a Dungeon Master versus a player, how NPCs are born, and why unused ideas are never wasted. Simpsons fans will love the crossover chaos as Matt answers fan questions like: • What D&D class would Bart Simpson be? (Spoiler: Bart the Bard) • Which Critical Role character would thrive in Springfield • How Bart would interact with the Mighty Nein’s chaos gremlins The episode also tackles serious, timely topics—especially AI voice cloning, ownership of performance, and why technology can never replace the heart, soul, and humanity behind real voice acting. Matt and Nancy share powerful insights on protecting creative integrity in an evolving industry. And yes—there’s donuts. A full donut tasting segment with expert-level descriptions, crunch analysis, and surprisingly passionate scoring adds pure Simpsons-energy fun to the episode. Packed with laughter, improv, fan questions, heartfelt reflections, and storytelling wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for D&D fans, Critical Role viewers, voice actors, animators, gamers, and Simpsons fans alike. 🎲 Eat your shorts… and roll for charisma. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Beverly D’Angelo (National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, The Simpsons) joins Simpsons Declassified for a hilarious, revealing conversation that jumps from Springfield to Hollywood—and straight into the stories fans beg for. Beverly finally explains the infamous “crotch grab” moment on Christmas Vacation, why she did it, and how it accidentally became the take they had to use. Then the episode dives deep into her Simpsons legacy as Lurleen Lumpkin, including the wild truth that Beverly wrote “Finally Bagged Me a Homer” with her brother in about ten minutes—and how that song became a long-term “gift that keeps on giving.” You’ll also hear how she met Matt Groening through Frank Zappa, why musical theater rules made the Lurleen episode work so well, and what it was like recording in the early days of the show (plus the best Simpsons perks—yes, the luggage!). The conversation turns personal as Beverly shares advice she’d give her younger self: self-validate, trust your creative engine, and don’t conform for approval. Packed with classic improv, behind-the-scenes trivia, and real-life wisdom—this one’s a must-listen. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special Ask Me Anything episode, Nancy Cartwright goes fully “behind the yellow curtain” to answer fan questions about The Simpsons, voice acting, and the real-life mischief that shaped Bart Simpson. Nancy reveals how she accidentally became Bart: originally called in to audition for Lisa, she spotted the description of “10-year-old, school-hating underachiever and proud of it” and instantly knew that was her character. One bold ask later, Bart’s now-iconic voice was born on the spot in front of Matt Groening. From there, Nancy dives into her early days on the speech team, discovering she could create characters, win trophies, and literally pay for college with her voice. She shares a hilariously “very Bart” story about getting busted for writing something awful on a school bathroom stall in brown marker—and the painfully creative punishment that followed. Fans also get rare behind-the-scenes insights, including: How she combined Ralph Wiggum and Nelson Muntz to build new characters Why Nelson is the biggest vocal “throat ripper” to perform How multi-character scenes with Bart, Rod, Todd, and Ralph pushed her early in the series The secret reason some couch gags run extra long What it was really like working with Michael Jackson on “Do the Bartman” and the “Happy Birthday Lisa” song Nancy also talks about Bartmania, early anonymity, her first big voice job as Gloria on Richie Rich, the mentorship of voice legend Daws Butler, and why the show’s integrity and emotional center—especially Lisa as the moral compass—are a huge part of The Simpsons’ long-term success. Packed with stories, confessions, and fan-favorite lore, this AMA is a must-listen for anyone who loves Bart, animation, or the craft of voice acting. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Legendary impressionist Jim Meskimen (Parks and Rec, America’s Got Talent) joins the show for a fast-paced, hilarious, and insightful deep dive into the craft of voices and impressions. From his earliest days imitating Tiny Tim to voicing iconic characters for Disney, Jim breaks down how he studies vocal patterns, physicality, pitch, and personality to bring celebrity impressions to life—sometimes within seconds. Jim and Nancy jump into rapid-fire Simpsons challenges, reimagining Bart catchphrases as delivered by celebrity voices, plus dramatic reenactments, Krusty Burger clashes, and Springfield improv that only a world-class mimic can pull off. He also shares stories about stepping into Robin Williams’ Genie roles, meeting actors he imitates, and the surreal moment he “lost” an impression the same day the real performer passed away. Beyond impressions, Jim opens up about his artistic roots, his mother Marion Ross, his early animation days at Hanna-Barbera, and how he approaches acting in both comedy and drama. He explains why authentic humanity—not tricks—makes performances memorable, and how he prepares characters for film, TV, and his upcoming projects. Whether you’re a Simpsons fan, a voice-acting nerd, or someone who loves celebrity impressions, this episode is packed with technique, nostalgia, storytelling, and nonstop comedy from one of the greatest vocal performers working today. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Rick and Morty star Spencer Grammer sits down to talk voice acting, growing up in a Broadway family, and her dad Kelsey Grammer’s iconic Simpsons role as Sideshow Bob. She shares behind-the-scenes insights on improv in animation, how episodes are rewritten and re-recorded, and what it’s like performing emotional turns in the booth. Spencer also opens up about recovering from a life-changing injury, finding music as healing, and building her band Bell and Chain. You’ll hear hilarious Simpsons × Rick and Morty crossover improv, movie scene reenactments, and Spencer’s spontaneous song “Sunshine.” Fans will love her thoughts on multiverses, Easter eggs, and why Springfield is in “every state.” This fun, heartfelt, and creatively wild episode is packed with comedy, storytelling, and exclusive insights from one of animation’s most dynamic voices. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered what happens when Bart Simpson collides with the queen of cartoon multiverses? Nancy Cartwright sits down with Tara Strong for a wild, heartfelt romp through voice-acting mayhem—Timmy Turner, Harley Quinn, Raven, Bubbles, Batgirl, Miss Minutes, and more. Tara shares fangirl moments (singing with Jodi Benson in Little Mermaid II), origin stories (Hello Kitty’s first English voice!), and the craft behind “singing in character.” She opens up about fandom’s real impact—from tear-jerker con hugs to helping a bullied My Little Pony artist find her community. Then chaos ensues in “Fanfiction Theater,” as Tara and Nancy swap voices, trade Bartman bars, and mash up Springfield with Toy Story, The Shining, and a Harley-babysits-Bart scenario that would definitely set the town on fire. Tara even pitches a new Springfield resident—Nova, a cosplay-rock star who pulls Lisa out of her shell. It’s jokes, joy, and genuine magic with one of animation’s most beloved voices. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered who really sang for Michael Jackson’s character on The Simpsons? Nancy Cartwright welcomes legendary vocalist Kipp Lennon—the hidden voice behind Stark Raving Dad’s unforgettable tunes. Kipp shares the wild story of how he ended up channeling the King of Pop in Springfield, from the day he got the call to performing live years later at The Simpsons Take the Bowl concert. Along the way, he dishes about his musical roots as a founding member of the harmony-rich band Venice, and drops hilarious behind-the-scenes tales—like the time Conan O’Brien and Weird Al turned a hallway into an impromptu jam session. This episode hits every note: nostalgia, laughter, and pure Simpsons magic To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered what happens when the voice of Bart Simpson sits down with the director who helped make Treehouse of Horror iconic? Nancy Cartwright welcomes Simpsons legend Mark Kirkland for a spooky, laugh-packed deep dive into Springfield. Mark lifts the lid on classic Halloween segments—from “The Omega Man” to “Easy-Bake Coven”—sharing how colonial research, crooked sets, and even the color of falling leaves shape the scares. He recalls his path from Hanna-Barbera to CalArts mentors, treating animators as “actors with a pencil,” and why sitcom timing beats long crosses every time. The trio play a chaotic “Simpsons Catchphrase: Halloween Edition,” revisit Bart-the-Fly’s squeaky register, and reveal how lines are stitched together take by take. Mark shouts out Suzie Dieter’s Grinch homage, dishes Easter-egg signage lore, answers fan mail (yes, “The Shinning” wins), and crowns donuts the ultimate studio “candy.” Plus: his favorite to direct (“Last Exit to Springfield”) and what he’s creating in his fine-art life now. FOLLOW NANCY: https://www.instagram.com/nancy_cartwright/ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialnancycartwright https://x.com/nancycartwright https://www.facebook.com/Nancy.Cartwright.Official/ Produced and showrun by Monica Gil-Rodriguez. From Audacy Podcasts and CRE84U Entertainment—this is your all-access pass to Springfield. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode features one of the original architects of The Simpsons, John Vitti! A true comedy writing genius, John penned some of the show's most iconic and beloved episodes, including "Bart the Genius," "Bart Gets an F," "Mr. Plow," "Cape Feare," and "Lisa's Substitute." In this unforgettable interview, John and Nancy Cartwright geek out about the show's legacy and its chaotic-yet-brilliant origins. Jon also shares what it was like to pitch to James L. Brooks, why the full-face shot of a Simpson character is never a good idea, how much the voice actors, like Nancy, shaped characters like Ralph Wiggum and Mr. Burns, and those high-pressure days writing early-season episodes. Plus, Nancy and John play a hilarious writer's room game, pitching plots for ultimate crossover episodes: "Jaws at Springfield Lake," "The Godfather at Springfield’s Mob Summit," and "Star Wars at Springfield Space Expo!" To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered what happens when an Oscar-winning actress meets the voice of Bart Simpson? Allison Janney and Nancy Cartwright sit down for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation talking about The Simpsons, I, Tonya, West Wing, Minions, and more. In this exclusive interview, Allison shares her experience guest-starring on The Simpsons and pitches wild new ideas for the show, including a character for herself and a storyline involving a new dog for the family. Nancy, a voice-acting legend, offers Allison tips on character voices and reveals behind-the-scenes stories from the show's history. They also reminisce about their shared connections to their hometown, from local pizza joints to the Kenley Players theater. They put their skills to the test in a chaotic game of "Simpsons or Real Life" and even attempt to rap!  FOLLOW NANCY: https://www.instagram.com/nancy_cartwright/ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialnancycartwright https://x.com/nancycartwright https://www.facebook.com/Nancy.Cartwright.Official/ Produced and showrun by Monica Gil-Rodriguez. From Audacy Podcasts and CRE84U Entertainment—this is your all-access pass to Springfield. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Nancy Cartwright and the incredible Cedric Yarbrough (Deputy Jones on Reno 911!, Colonel H. Stinkmeanor on The Boondocks) for a hilarious and insightful conversation about their careers. In this episode Cedric and Nancy dive deep into the art of voice acting, discussing how they find the voice, breath, and truth for characters ranging from a mob boss in the animated Batman series to the unforgettable Deputy Jones. They explore the chaos and genius of improvised comedy on Reno 911! and the longevity of The Simpsons. Then, prepare for an incredible improv moment as they recreate the phone call from Taken as Bart and Deputy Jones, and sing Broadway-style songs as their iconic animated characters! Plus, Cedric shares the emotional story behind his most meaningful live-action role on Speechless and what it was like to work with Clint Eastwood on Juror No. 2. FOLLOW NANCY: https://www.instagram.com/nancy_cartwright/ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialnancycartwright https://x.com/nancycartwright https://www.facebook.com/Nancy.Cartwright.Official/ Produced and showrun by Monica Gil-Rodriguez. From Audacy Podcasts and CRE84U Entertainment—this is your all-access pass to Springfield. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we’re joined by one of the most important voices in The Simpsons: Mike Reiss! A four-time Emmy-winning writer and producer, Mike has been a cornerstone of The Simpsons since its inception, a run so celebrated he even earned a Peabody Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Animation Writers Caucus. Beyond The Simpsons, Mike created the cult classics The Critic and Queer Duck, and has written for blockbuster animated films including The Simpsons Movie and Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs. Nancy Cartwright sits down with Mike Reiss to talk about everything from his humble start as a writer on a new animated show to the over three decades he spent shaping the world of Springfield. This is a deep dive into the show's history from two people who were there from the very beginning. You'll hear never-before-told stories about what it was like to be in the writers' room and behind the scenes of the most iconic animated series of all time. But it's not all nostalgia! Mike also gets put in the hot seat to rank some of his favorite "Simpsons" characters and answers burning questions submitted by fans of the show. Don't miss this hilarious and insightful conversation! FOLLOW NANCY: https://www.instagram.com/nancy_cartwright/ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialnancycartwright https://x.com/nancycartwright https://www.facebook.com/Nancy.Cartwright.Official/ Produced and showrun by Monica Gil-Rodriguez. From Audacy Podcasts and CRE84U Entertainment—this is your all-access pass to Springfield. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week’s guest is the one and only "Weird Al" Yankovic, a GRAMMY-winning icon known for his brilliant musical parodies and comedic anthems. With a career spanning decades, Al has entertained millions and even made memorable appearances on The Simpsons.Nancy and Al dive deep into their shared history with The Simpsons, revealing exclusive stories from the recording booth and behind the scenes. You'll hear Nancy's pure delight as she recounts her genuine "fangirl" reaction to finally meeting Weird Al after years of admiration! Then get ready for a hilarious challenge as they play a unique game, trying to distinguish truly wild scenarios from actual Simpsons plotlines or real-world headlines!" And the grand finale is something you won't want to miss: "Weird Al" grabs his accordion as Nancy channels her inner Ralph Wiggum and other characters, for an absolutely iconic musical tribute to her talented niece, pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter!  FOLLOW NANCY: https://www.instagram.com/nancy_cartwright/ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialnancycartwright https://x.com/nancycartwright https://www.facebook.com/Nancy.Cartwright.Official/ Produced and showrun by Monica Gil-Rodriguez. From Audacy Podcasts and CRE84U Entertainment—this is your all-access pass to Springfield. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who keeps Springfield alive when the stars can’t make it to the table read? Chris Edgerly—the show’s secret vocal chameleon. From Homer to high-profile guest stars, Chris steps in with pitch-perfect impressions that give producers and writers the full Simpsons experience before the real recording begins. In this episode of Simpsons Declassified, Chris shares how he slips seamlessly into the voices of Homer and countless others, giving writers and producers the full Springfield experience before the official recordings. From the art of perfectly mimicking iconic voices to untold stories from behind those closed doors, this is your rare backstage pass to the hidden craft that keeps The Simpsons pitch-perfect. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Simpsons fans —THE VAULT IS OPEN! I’m Nancy Cartwright, the voice of Bart Simpson for 35+ years, and I’m finally taking you inside Springfield. Simpsons Declassified is your all-access pass to the world’s most iconic, animated series. Each week, we crack open wild predictions, eerie coincidences and fan conspiracies and stories from 36 seasons (that’s 800+ episodes!) behind-the-scenes with writers, directors, the cast and celebrity superfans, PLUS…Simpsons-themed games— play along and test your Springfield IQ. Hear exclusive stories from our guests who were there! Perhaps some scenes that almost never aired, the jokes that died, the ones that lived and the moments that still shock me at the mic. Produced and showrun by Monica Gil-Rodriguez. From Audacy Podcasts and CRE84U Entertainment. Follow now to get new episodes first — and drop your wildest Simpsons’ theory in a review for a chance to be featured on our uniquely unique podcast, Simpsons Declassified. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices