Talking Simpsons

We welcome back Ian Jones-Quartey, creator of OK KO and Executive Producer on Steven Universe, for arguably the best-looking Simpsons episode ever. We discuss Satan, gremlins, vampires, and scariest of all, dogs playing poker. How did the writers and animators make such a ghoulish gallery, and what amazing moments were cut from the show? Learn all that while enjoying all the donuts in the world on this Halloween classic! Support this podcast and get over 200 ad-free bonus episodes by visiting Patreon.com/TalkingSimpsons and becoming a patron! And please follow the official Twitter, @TalkSimpsonsPod, not to mention Bluesky and Instagram!

Join a delightful adventure through the unique cultural lens of 'The Simpsons' as they visit London, peppered with celebrity cameos from controversial figures like Tony Blair and J.K. Rowling. Explore the humor and absurdity of British culture, coupled with nostalgic reflections on iconic moments and characters. The hosts dig into John Swartzwelder's writing legacy and dissect memorable comedic elements, while also critiquing the complexities of nostalgia in light of modern controversies. Prepare for witty insights and laughter galore!

Celebrate a post-Election Day thrill as the hosts dive into the first four episodes of Season 36 and unveil juicy Simpsons Movie sequel news. The charm of nostalgia shines through with talks about upcoming live events, memorable cartoon tributes, and quirky visits to unique Portland spots. Discover how unpopular characters impact media, reflecting on the absurdities of politics and pop culture. Plus, enjoy insights into exciting games and their innovative mechanics, all while fostering a vibrant community connection.

It's time for the David Mirkin Era to begin on Talking Simpsons officially, and we're kicking it off with comedian/writer Mike Lawrence! After Mike shares fun stories of working with Simpsons legend Greg Daniels, we discuss the show's deepest tribute to Citizen Kane. In this absolute classic, Burns searches for Bobo, The Ramones sing "Happy Birthday," Homer eats a lot of cheese, and too many other beloved moments to name in one description. Plus, Mike gives us insights in Homer's debut as a roast comedian and much more in this deep dive. So look out Smithers, and listen to this podcast! Support this podcast and get over 180 ad-free bonus episodes by visiting Patreon.com/TalkingSimpsons and becoming a patron! And please follow the official Twitter, @TalkSimpsonsPod!

Join game developer Merritt K, known for her work on Fledgling Manor, as she dives into the satirical depths of The Simpsons episode featuring Lisa's presidency. They delve into how this 2003 parody of Evita resonates with today’s political landscape and discuss Michael Moore's comedic influence. From critiques of musical storytelling and the evolution of female empowerment, to nostalgic childhood TV reflections, Merritt's insights blend humor and critical thinking, making for an engaging conversation about culture and representation.

For the third time, we take our show on the road to Portland alongside Bill Oakley, former Simpsons showrunner and Steamed Hams Society boss. Recorded live on October 2, 2024, at Kelly's Olympian in Portland, OR! We all dissect a favorite ep from Bill's time on the series, The Itchy & Scratchy & Poochie Show. Bill has many fun memories and digressions about how this episode happened, with tales of the show you'll only hear on this extra-large live podcast. How is Poochie like Mac Tonight & Cousin Oliver combined? Who was their greatest enemy in the '90s Simpsons fan sites? Learn all that here, and then check out our previous live shows with Bill Oakley, both our 2018 edition, as well as our 2023 one! Support this podcast and get over 180 bonus episodes by visiting Patreon.com/TalkingSimpsons and becoming a patron! And please follow the official Twitter, @TalkSimpsonsPod!

As we head into production season 5 and a huge changeover for the series, we're joined by first-time guest, writer/podcaster Evan Susser! The Doughboys Commissioner helps us explore Conan O'Brien's final full ep of The Simpsons, as we give a timeline of how his unprecedented hiring to Late Night impacted the show. Then we dig into Homer's incredible trip to college,  one of the best eps ever, with nerds, pigs, and top-notch animation. Listen before the crusty old dean finds out!  Support this podcast, hear it ad-free, and get 180+ bonus episodes by visiting Patreon.com/TalkingSimpsons and becoming a patron! And please follow the official Twitter, @TalkSimpsonsPod!

As autumn begins, we have a whole month of Simpsons events to look back on, while also looking forward to our October 2nd Portland live show with Bill Oakley (get your tickets HERE before it sells out). Then, we've got a trip report from Orlando, lots of chat about newly released video games, and replies to some of our favorite Patreon comments. Prepare for Halloween/Treehouse season with the newest community podcast!

Now that the Halloween fun is over, it's time for the proper "season premiere" of season 15, as Homer reconnects with his mother. After we dig into the career of writer Michael Price, we discuss how this second appearance of Glenn Close on the series compares to the first. Plus, we chat about viral headlines, collectible t-shirts, the surveillance state of 2003, and the overuse of songs from the '60s in this week's groovy podcast! Support this podcast, experience it ad-free, and get over 200 bonus episodes by visiting Patreon.com/TalkingSimpsons and becoming a patron! And please follow the official Twitter, @TalkSimpsonsPod!

If you missed our 2018 Portland live show with Bill Oakley, or our 2023 show, good news: we'll soon be putting on another one of equal or greater value! And our beloved patrons have first dibs on tickets! (General public folks reading this later—we respect you as well.) Here are the details: WHAT: Our Talking Simpsons Live Show about "The Itchy & Scratchy & Poochie Show" with Special Guest, Bill Oakley WHERE: Kelly's Olympian in Portland, OR WHEN: Wednesday, October 2nd at 8:00pm And you can buy your tickets RIGHT HERE! Also, if you'll be in Portland the previous weekend, I (Bob) will also be hosting a Retronauts panel at 5:00pm on Saturday, September 28th at the Portland Retro Gaming Expo. It's a great convention that's worth going to, even for non-podcasting reasons. Thanks in advance; we hope to see you at the show! - Bob Poster art by Nina Matsumoto.