Initial Reaction - Troy Zantuck with Denis Walter - Tue 24 Mar, 2026

In this lively episode of 'Nights with Denis Walter,' host Denis Walter welcomes back Troy Zantuck for the popular 'Initial Reaction' segment, a fan-favorite feature that blends cryptic wordplay, audience interaction, and playful banter. The evening's initials, F.A., spark a flurry of creative guesses ranging from sports teams and historical figures to pop culture references and puns. Listeners like Tanya, Andrew, Peter, and Jim contribute memorable nominations such as 'Frank Adams' (Melbourne footballer), 'Flying Albatross,' and 'Foreign Affairs,' while the hosts delight in the absurdity and cleverness of the submissions. The segment builds momentum with increasingly imaginative answers, including 'Fatty Arbuckle,' 'Family Affair,' and 'Felix Auger,' before culminating in a humorous and tense finale where the final two cryptics—'Even Stevens' and 'John Henry and Shirley'—remain unsolved. The episode closes with a warm appreciation for the 'Brainiacs' and a tease for Tony McManus’s late-night return, underscoring the show’s enduring charm and community spirit. Key takeaways include the power of audience engagement in shaping content, the joy of playful intellectual challenges, and the importance of humor and humility in hosting. The hosts’ chemistry—marked by self-deprecating jokes and genuine appreciation for listeners—creates a warm, inclusive atmosphere. Despite the unresolved cryptics, the episode celebrates creativity, connection, and the shared experience of live radio. The sentiment throughout is overwhelmingly positive, with a strong sense of camaraderie and fun.