Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard Susan Morrison (on Lorne Michaels)
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Apr 30, 2025 
Susan Morrison, a journalist and author known for her work at SPY Magazine and The New Yorker, dives into the intriguing life of Lorne Michaels. She discusses the unique blend of comedy and journalism during her time at SPY. Topics include the significance of humor as a universal language and how Lorne's experiences shaped his production brilliance at SNL. With insights on the evolution of live comedy and the art of audience engagement, Morrison highlights SNL's impact on entertainment and shares personal anecdotes that reveal the quirks of the industry.
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Childhood of Frequent Moves
- Susan Morrison moved frequently as a child due to her father's IBM job, living in multiple states.
- She now treasures her 40-year residence in New York to provide stability for her family.
Early Career with Lorne Michaels
- Susan Morrison's first grown-up job was working for Lorne Michaels on The New Show in the 80s.
- She then transitioned into journalism and helped start Spy Magazine, combining comedy with reporting.
Humor as Universal Language
- Humor has become a universal language necessary to navigate daily life and media.
- Lorne Michaels understood this, using comedy as an entry point even for figures like the Pope.