Good Hang with Amy Poehler: Episode with Leanne Morgan – A Detailed Summary
Released on July 29, 2025
Introduction
In this vibrant episode of "Good Hang with Amy Poehler", host Amy Poehler welcomes the talented and hilarious stand-up comedian Leanne Morgan. Known for her Netflix special and the upcoming show "Leanne", Leanne brings a wealth of experience and infectious humor to the conversation. Joining them is Kristen Johnston, an accomplished actress who shares her insights and anecdotes related to the entertainment industry.
Early Life and High School Memories
Leanne Morgan opens up about her formative years in Tennessee, reminiscing about her high school experiences and the early seeds of her comedic talent.
Leanne Morgan [14:23]: "I was voted Best Looking in Joe Burns High School because I still had my bloom."
Leanne reflects on growing up in a small town of 500 people where she and her sister were the center of attention. Despite the limited opportunities, she was deeply involved in school activities, including being an emcee and participating in speech and drama classes.
Leanne Morgan [15:30]: "I did all the announcements and was a ham, always ready to dazzle."
Her teachers recognized her potential, which paved the way for her initial forays into performance, even though her school lacked a dedicated "funniest" superlative.
Journey into Comedy and Early Career
Leanne discusses her early aspirations to enter show business, inspired by classic television icons like Lucille Ball and Carol Burnett.
Leanne Morgan [15:58]: "I grew up watching Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, and all that. My mama said, 'You're going to Hollywood!'"
Her first attempt at stand-up comedy began while she was still waiting tables, leading to her initial performances in Texas. Balancing motherhood with her budding career, Leanne shares the challenges and humorous moments from her early days in comedy clubs.
Leanne Morgan [27:00]: "Chuck Morgan always supported me. He said, 'I'm not a dreamer, you're a dreamer,' and that kept me grounded."
Marriage, Family, and Balancing Act
Leanne delves into her relationship with her husband, Chuck Morgan, highlighting the dynamics that make their marriage enduring.
Leanne Morgan [31:48]: "He takes care of the checkbook because I can't deal with that. He's very introverted, and I'm extroverted."
Their complementary personalities have been a cornerstone of their long-lasting marriage. Leanne emphasizes the importance of support and understanding in maintaining a healthy relationship, especially amidst the demands of a career in show business.
"Leanne" – A Multicam Sitcom Inspired by Life
One of the highlights of the episode is the discussion about Leanne's new Netflix show, "Leanne", a multicam sitcom loosely based on her life and comedy.
Leanne Morgan [53:45]: "It's based on my comedy and my sensibility. The premise is, my husband walks off after 30-something years of marriage, and now I'm sitting here, what am I going to do?"
The show portrays Leanne navigating life post-divorce, blending humor with relatable life experiences. Kristen Johnston plays her sister, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Leanne Morgan [56:01]: "Doing a multicam was a new experience for me, but the laughs make it all worthwhile."
Health, Wellness, and Personal Insights
Throughout the conversation, Leanne and Amy touch upon topics like menopause, health challenges, and the importance of self-care.
Leanne Morgan [06:34]: "With all due respect to the boomer women ahead of us, we have a different language, resources, and attitude towards menopause."
They discuss the generational differences in handling health issues, emphasizing openness and support. Leanne shares her own experiences with melanoma diagnosis at 21, underscoring the significance of regular health check-ups.
Leanne Morgan [19:48]: "I had a melanoma when I was 21 from laying out with all those copperheads."
Touring, Performances, and Audience Interactions
Leanne provides an insider's view of her stand-up tours, the rigorous preparation involved, and the unique connections she forms with her audience.
Leanne Morgan [46:25]: "The 'Just Getting Started' tour is about embracing life in my 50s and connecting with women who share similar stories."
She recounts humorous interactions with fans and the supportive environment she fosters during her performances. The discussion highlights the therapeutic aspect of comedy and its power to make people feel seen and understood.
Leanne Morgan [40:35]: "People feel seen when they watch me perform; it's like there's some version of them that isn't spoken of."
Reflections on Aging, Beauty, and Self-Acceptance
A candid conversation ensues about aging gracefully, the societal pressures of maintaining beauty standards, and the personal journey towards self-acceptance.
Leanne Morgan [43:29]: "Being blonde is a lot of work, and now that I'm older, white comes out or gray comes out all the time."
They humorously navigate the challenges of maintaining hair color and the misconceptions about aging, reinforcing the message that embracing one's true self is liberating.
Leanne Morgan [65:24]: "It's never too late to keep dreaming and trying new things."
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As the episode winds down, Leanne shares her optimistic outlook on life, emphasizing the importance of relationships, continuous growth, and finding joy in every stage of life.
Leanne Morgan [71:49]: "Keep dreaming. It's never too late."
Amy Poehler echoes these sentiments, celebrating Leanne's success and encouraging listeners to pursue their passions regardless of age.
Amy Poehler [71:54]: "It's never too late. The best is yet to come."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Leanne Morgan [14:23]: "I was voted Best Looking in Joe Burns High School because I still had my bloom."
- Leanne Morgan [15:30]: "I did all the announcements and was a ham, always ready to dazzle."
- Leanne Morgan [31:48]: "He takes care of the checkbook because I can't deal with that. He's very introverted, and I'm extroverted."
- Leanne Morgan [53:45]: "It's based on my comedy and my sensibility. The premise is, my husband walks off after 30-something years of marriage, and now I'm sitting here, what am I going to do?"
- Leanne Morgan [19:48]: "I had a melanoma when I was 21 from laying out with all those copperheads."
- Leanne Morgan [40:35]: "People feel seen when they watch me perform; it's like there's some version of them that isn't spoken of."
- Leanne Morgan [65:24]: "It's never too late to keep dreaming and trying new things."
Final Thoughts
This episode of "Good Hang with Amy Poehler" offers an intimate glimpse into Leanne Morgan's life, her comedic journey, and the personal philosophies that drive her success. From navigating the early challenges of stand-up comedy to balancing family life with a flourishing career, Leanne exemplifies resilience and passion. Her candid discussions on health, aging, and self-acceptance provide valuable insights, making this episode both entertaining and inspiring for listeners.
Stay tuned for more engaging conversations on "Good Hang with Amy Poehler", where laughter and heartfelt stories intertwine to celebrate the joys of life.