Mike Sweeney

Jeff Ross, a longtime executive producer for Conan O’Brien, joins writer Mike Sweeney to reflect on their comedic journey. They reminisce about Conan's early days in late-night, including their first meeting and hilarious anecdotes from live tapings. Hear tales of a ringtone incident, emotional struggles before performing, and significant career milestones. The duo also explores the chaos of navigating late-night television and share heartfelt stories that highlight the unique experiences that shaped their careers in comedy.

Mary Lincoln is the First Lady everyone loves to hate. But without her, would Abe Lincoln even have been president in the first place? Theirs is a love story that contains many tragedies—and a key to how America became the country it is today. Starring: Rita Wilson as Mary Lincoln and Timothy Olyphant as Abraham Lincoln. Also featuring Matt Gourley and Mike Sweeney. Source List:Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln, by Doris Kearns GoodwinMiller Center, The University of Virginia, www.millercenter.orgThe Lincolns: Portrait of a Marriage, by Daniel Mark EpsteinMary Todd Lincoln: A Biography, by Jean H. Baker“Lincoln’s Looks Never Hindered His Approach to Life or Politics,” by Susan Bell, USC News“Mary Todd Lincoln, Patient at Bellevue Place, Batavia.” by Rodney A. Ross., Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society“Acts of Remembrance: Mary Todd Lincoln and Her Husband’s Memory.” by Jennifer L. Bach, Journal of the Abraham Lincoln Association“New Mary Lincoln Letter Discovered.” by Jason Emerson, Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society

Mike Sweeney and Jessie Gaskell, talented writers for Conan O’Brien, dive into their rich experiences in late-night television. They reminisce about their favorite bits from the early days and the emotional reconnections post-pandemic. The duo shares humorous anecdotes about chaos in live productions, absurd sketches, and their evolving podcast journey. With reflections on aging and nostalgic moments, they celebrate iconic guests and their creative team, blending warmth and comedy throughout the conversation.