Fitzdog Radio: A Candid Conversation with Kevin Nealon (Episode 1088)
Release Date: February 27, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 1088 of Fitzdog Radio, host Greg Fitzsimmons welcomes the illustrious Kevin Nealon, a veteran comedian best known for his tenure on Saturday Night Live (SNL) from 1986 to 1995. Celebrated as one of the longest-running cast members and ranked among the greatest anchors of all time, Nealon brings a wealth of experience from his stand-up career, acting roles in beloved films like Happy Gilmore and The Wedding Singer, and his endeavors as a podcast host and author. This episode delves deep into Nealon's insights on comedy, his personal life, and his views on corporate America.

Corporate America and Customer Service Frustrations

The conversation kicks off with Greg expressing his frustrations with corporate customer service systems, particularly the inefficiencies of being perpetually on hold:

Greg Fitzsimmons [07:45]: "I think maybe Luigi killing that guy, putting a little bounce in their step, maybe they're going to pick up after, after 72 agents instead of 79 times of you saying agents."

Nealon empathizes with the universal annoyance of long wait times and automated systems, highlighting the emotional toll it takes on consumers.

Stand-Up Comedy and the Changing Landscape

Greg shares his critical perspective on modern stand-up comedy, lamenting the rise of "mediocre" acts that lack genuine life experiences. He emphasizes that true comedians often have tumultuous backgrounds, which fuel their humor.

Greg Fitzsimmons [08:55]: "There's so much mediocre comedy and they're watering down whatever. I sound like a bitter old guy, but I'm not."

Nealon responds by reflecting on his own comedic journey, discussing the challenges of maintaining authenticity in an evolving industry and the pressures of staying relevant.

SNL Experiences and Legacy

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Nealon's time at SNL. He humorously disputes Greg's claim about being ranked ninth by Steve Martin, correcting it to Bill Murray:

Kevin Nealon [12:52]: "Oh, it's Bill Murray."

Nealon delves into the dynamics of the SNL cast over the years, expressing both pride and frustration over how his contributions have been recognized. He reminisces about seeking approval from Lorne Michaels and the enduring impact of his SNL sketches on his career.

Personal Anecdotes and Life Stories

The duo shares a series of entertaining and heartfelt stories from their careers and personal lives. One standout moment is Nealon recounting an incident where he mistakenly attempted the Heimlich maneuver on an audience member who wasn't choking:

Kevin Nealon [10:02]: "I found out later if I did that to his stomach, it probably would have spread throughout his whole body."

These anecdotes not only showcase Nealon's comedic timing but also highlight the unpredictable nature of live performances.

Family Life and Parenting

Transitioning to personal topics, Greg and Nealon discuss their relationships with their children. Nealon talks about his son's budding interest in entertainment and his own challenges in connecting with him:

Kevin Nealon [24:11]: "He used to want to be a director, but then he did this course at Northwestern University during the summer for five weeks... he's not like me."

Greg shares his experiences in parenting, emphasizing the importance of allowing his children to explore and choose their own paths without undue pressure.

Future Projects and Creative Endeavors

Towards the episode's conclusion, Nealon highlights his latest projects, including his book "I Exaggerate" and his podcast "Hiking with Kevin." He also proudly announces his involvement as an executive producer in the Sundance-acclaimed documentary Come See Me in the Good Light:

Kevin Nealon [75:56]: "It's about living in the moment. And it's got a lot of humor in it, too, unexpectedly."

Greg encourages listeners to support Nealon's ventures, praising his continued dedication to comedy and storytelling.

Conclusion

Episode 1088 of Fitzdog Radio offers an unfiltered and engaging glimpse into Kevin Nealon's multifaceted career and personal life. From his foundational years on SNL to his reflections on modern comedy and his latest creative projects, Nealon provides listeners with a blend of humor, wisdom, and genuine insight. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, this episode is a testament to Nealon's enduring influence in the world of comedy.

For more insights and updates, visit fitzdog.com and check out Kevin Nealon's projects, including his podcast "Hiking with Kevin," his book "I Exaggerate," and the documentary "Come See Me in the Good Light."