Alive with Steve Burns Origin Stories with Steve Burns
Dec 31, 2025
In a captivating chat, Steve Burns, the beloved former host of Blue's Clues, dives into his journey of creating his podcast, Alive with Steve Burns. He shares how a viral COVID video inspired him to speak candidly about mental health. Steve reflects on the importance of listening, both learned through children's TV and fostered in his new medium. He discusses the power of silence in conversations and the beauty of embracing imperfection, all while aiming to help listeners reconnect with their childhood curiosity and wonder.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Viral Check-In That Opened Doors
- Steve improvised a heartfelt 2020 video checking in on grown-up fans instead of doing a promo for the new hosts.
- The clip went viral because it filled a missing need for care-driven, respectful conversation online.
Listening As The Core Craft
- Steve says the key skill from Blue's Clues is listening to the camera and leaving space for response.
- That cultivated listening creates conditions for vulnerability and real engagement from listeners.
Make Silence Productive
- Steve emphasizes the power of leaving awkward silences and listening into them.
- He argues silence is a radical act that invites audience participation rather than a production flaw.