Listen "Mike Reiss: How The Simpsons Changed TV | Reasonably Happy with Paul Ollinger"
Episode Synopsis
The Simpsons writer and showrunner Mike Reiss shares behind-the-scenes secrets from 36+ years on the iconic animated series. From working with comedy legends like Sam Simon, Al Jean, and Conan O'Brien to writing for Johnny Carson and witnessing the wild beginnings of FOX, Mike recounts hilarious Hollywood stories and life lessons from his travels to 147 countries. He reveals the origin of the Simpsons, why Harvard wasn’t funny, how VCRs and fan feedback helped shape the show, and why the writers’ room was like a "kibbutz but more Jewish." It’s a deep dive into comedy, creativity, and the wild ride of creating a global phenomenon.
Follow Mike's Substack: https://substack.com/@mikereiss
Get Paul's Book: https://www.paulollinger.com/the-book
Follow Mike's Substack: https://substack.com/@mikereiss
Get Paul's Book: https://www.paulollinger.com/the-book
More episodes of the podcast Reasonably Happy with Paul Ollinger
High Net Worth Divorce with Laura Wasser
03/12/2025
Confronting Mortality with Thad Reichley
05/11/2025
Stoic Street Smarts w/ Ed Latimore
15/10/2025
ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.