Podcast Summary: Office Ladies – "A Look Back on An Interview with Mike Schur"

Release Date: July 2, 2025

Hosts: Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey

Introduction to the Episode

In this special episode of Office Ladies, Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey delve deep into their rich history with "The Office" by featuring an exclusive interview with Mike Schur. Known for his dual role as writer and actor—portraying the lovable yet awkward Mose Schrute—Mike offers invaluable insights into the creation and evolution of the beloved sitcom.

Meeting Mike Schur and His Journey on The Office

Timestamp: 10:50 – 16:34

The episode kicks off with Mike Schur expressing his admiration for Jenna and Angela both as actors and podcasters. He fondly recounts his initial skepticism about adapting the British version of "The Office" for American television. Despite his reservations, he narrates how his intense two-hour meeting with creator Greg Daniels changed his perspective, leading to his pivotal role as a writer and performer on the show.

Mike Schur (11:09): "I don't know if that guy's going to offer me a job, but if he does, I'm going to take it because I think he's going to teach me how to write."

Mike emphasizes the foundational lessons he learned under Greg Daniels' mentorship, describing the writers' room as a "strike force" that was both elite and exceptionally collaborative.

Writing for The Office: A Masterclass in Storytelling

Timestamp: 16:34 – 23:59

Mike Schur delves into the intricacies of writing for "The Office," highlighting the rigorous process of scriptwriting and story development. He shares anecdotes about Greg Daniels pushing the writers to explore diverse character pairings and storylines, ensuring the show remained fresh and engaging over its ten-year run.

Mike Schur (19:01): "Greg was in lecture mode, and I would turn the page and start taking notes like I was in college."

He reflects on the challenges and triumphs of early seasons, including the pressure to produce quality scripts and the camaraderie that developed among the small writing team.

Becoming Mose Schrute: Balancing Writing and Acting

Timestamp: 31:22 – 46:22

One of the standout segments of the interview focuses on Mike's transition from writer to actor, specifically his role as Mose Schrute. Mike candidly discusses the physical demands and humorous challenges of portraying Mose, from growing a real beard to performing grueling running scenes.

Mike Schur (35:00): "I was always a little bit like, this is torture. I always felt like it was a little bit of torture."

Angela Kinsey shares her memories of intense filming moments, including a particularly painful slap scene that left Mike momentarily disoriented.

Angela Kinsey (39:16): "You slapped me for real."

Despite the difficulties, Mike expresses gratitude for the opportunity, acknowledging how these experiences deepened his appreciation for the craft of acting.

Creative Collaboration: Writers and Actors in Harmony

Timestamp: 46:22 – 62:10

The conversation shifts to the symbiotic relationship between writers and actors on "The Office." Mike praises Greg Daniels for dismantling traditional hierarchies, fostering an environment where the best ideas prevailed regardless of their origin.

Mike Schur (63:50): "Why would we not take the best idea? And that is very frequently, sadly, not how it works on other shows."

Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey echo these sentiments, reminiscing about the open lines of communication and creative freedom that defined their time on the show. They contrast this with their experiences on other sets, highlighting how rare such collaboration truly is.

Mike Schur's Book: "How to Be Perfect"

Timestamp: 73:21 – 76:10

Towards the end of the episode, Mike introduces his book, "How to Be Perfect: The Correct Answer to Every Moral Question." He explains that the book stems from his work on "The Good Place", aiming to make complex ethical theories accessible and entertaining.

Mike Schur (73:28): "It's a summary of a lot of different theories and moral philosophy... explaining these ideas in a way that doesn't give you a headache."

Jenna and Angela express their excitement about the book, sharing blurbs from notable figures like Mindy Kaling who praised its brilliance and humor.

Mindy Kaling's Blurb: "As someone who worries that a deep dive into morality will ruin my fun and problematic life, I was certain this book wouldn't be for me. Boy, was I wrong."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Timestamp: 76:10 – End

The episode wraps up with heartfelt gratitude from both Jenna and Angela towards Mike for his contributions to "The Office" and the insightful interview. They encourage listeners to check out Mike's book, emphasizing its charitable contributions and engaging content.

Mike Schur (75:34): "You know right away that you've made the world a slightly better place just by buying the book. It's that easy."

Key Takeaways:

• Mike Schur's Dual Role: Balancing writing and acting on "The Office," bringing depth to his character Mose Schrute.
• Creative Process: Emphasis on collaboration, idea meritocracy, and the rigorous writing environment fostered by Greg Daniels.
• Challenges of Acting: Physical demands and humorous anecdotes from portraying Mose.
• Book Insight: Mike's approach to making moral philosophy accessible and engaging through his book "How to Be Perfect."

Notable Quotes:

• Mike Schur (11:09): "I don't know if that guy's going to offer me a job, but if he does, I'm going to take it because I think he's going to teach me how to write."
• Angela Kinsey (39:16): "You slapped me for real."
• Mike Schur (63:50): "Why would we not take the best idea? And that is very frequently, sadly, not how it works on other shows."

For Listeners Interested in More:

• Mike Schur's Book: How to Be Perfect: The Correct Answer to Every Moral Question – Available now with proceeds going to charity.
• Follow Mike Schur: Engage with his work across various television projects and his active presence on social media.

Credits:

• Executive Producer: Cassie Jerkins
• Audio Engineer: Sam Kieffer
• Associate Producer: Ainslie Bubaco
• Executive Producer (Odyssey): Leah Rees Dennis
• Theme Song: Rubber Tree by Creed Bratton

Thank you for tuning into this episode of Office Ladies. Join Jenna and Angela next week as they explore another iconic episode of "The Office", providing more behind-the-scenes stories and insider insights.