Talking Simpsons

In a captivating conversation, Peter Avanzino, Supervising Director of Futurama, shares his extensive animation journey, including work on The Simpsons and Ren & Stimpy. He reveals the trials of breaking into the industry and the evolution of storyboarding techniques. Peter discusses the darker themes explored in animated shows and the creative challenges behind producing Futurama, especially during its reboot. Listeners will also get insider insights on industry changes and the behind-the-scenes hurdles that shape beloved animated series.

We go slightly off schedule to do 2003's holiday Simpsons ep, and we welcome back YouTube creator Pop Arena (check out their Nickelodeon retrospective Nick Knacks)! After we reflect on all of the Xmas specials we grew up watching, we follow Homer on a journey of self-discovery. Can you give Certs as a gift? How many bits were cut from the script? And how accurate is this to Mr. Magoo lore? We dig into all of that in this seasonal 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, not to mention Bluesky and Instagram!

Journalist Louis Peitzman joins to unpack a classic Simpsons episode featuring Krusty the Clown. They dive into Krusty's bar mitzvah journey and explore the episode's cultural and religious themes. Discussions touch on the evolution of animated humor, the interplay of faith and identity, and how contemporary satirical content adapts to political landscapes. They also reflect on comedic portrayals of celebrity figures, blending personal anecdotes with critiques of today’s entertainment. It's a delightful exploration of nostalgia and creativity in animation!

As Marge and Ruth battle the police state, we welcome back experts in satirizing dumb cops, Matt Bors and Ben Clarkson, creators of the comic Justice Warriors (the new volume 2, Vote Harder, makes a great seasonal gift)! After reflecting on this story in the current post-election climate, learn how Thelma And Louise inspired this ep, why good waffles stick together, and how to balance parenting with watching Simpsons reruns constantly. Plus, the history of sunshine, lollipops, and everything that's wonderful on this podcast! 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!

Whew, that was certainly an eventful November to say the least, and we're not just talking about all the podcasts we released. After we look back on the Simpsons news of the last few weeks like Halloween eps and NFL crossovers, we look back on the movies/TV/games we used as escapism in these dark times before heading out on a vacation for the rest of this Thanksgiving month. Then we reply to some of our favorite comments as usual, so listen in and commiserate in our monthly community pod! 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!

What happens when Homer Simpson recreates the misadventures of a weird Canadian outdoorsman? You get the last ep of production season 14, where Homer battles a bear after shopping for Mother's Day gifts. Following our review of the this ep's "Project Grizzly" origins, we dig into how this story of the hunter becoming the hunter won an enviromental award 20 years ago. Plus, podcast chat of Veggietales, Walmart, bear mascots, and all the other stuff we were scared of in 2003! 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!

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!