Listener sentiment
International Waters built a deep well of listener loyalty over its run, with the large majority of reviewers praising its transatlantic comedy-quiz format, Dave Holmes's energetic and charming hosting, and the consistently strong roster of US and UK comedian guests who trade cross-cultural barbs. Listeners repeatedly highlighted the show's blend of genuine trivia competition and playful international ribbing as a refreshing alternative to typical interview-format podcasts, and many described the back catalogue as reliably hilarious. However, the most recent reviews — from 2019 — mark a clear downturn in sentiment: several listeners report that the show's apparent rebrand to "Troubled Waters" has lost much of its comedy, leaning more into current-events discussion than the sharp pop-culture wit that defined earlier seasons. One recent reviewer also flagged a grating cross-promotional ad for the show that runs across the MaxFun podcast network as a persistent irritant. The picture that emerges is a beloved show whose classic episodes still earn enthusiastic recommendations, even as its more recent direction has prompted mixed-to-disappointed reactions from longtime fans.
Apple4.8 · 298
Summary generated Aug 12, 2026