Bob's Burgers, S3E14 'Lindapendent Woman' (2013) with writer Mike Benner
Summary
Hosts Patrick Kotner and Brian Lynch discuss the *Bob's Burgers* pilot, "Independent Woman," with guest writer Mike Benner. Benner shares how his experience working at Trader Joe's inspired the episode and reveals the behind-the-scenes process of writing for the show, including casting Matt Besser and creating the signature end-credit songs. The conversation also touches on the show's unique writer's room culture, the importance of full season orders, and the hosts' favorite hamburgers and celebrity sightings at local restaurants.
Topics discussed
Intro: Choosing the Bob's Burgers pilot episode
Show format, streaming availability, and commentary rules
Guest introduction and pre-watch banter about Psych and Monk
Mike Benner's background and the 'Let Scissor' gag
Writer's room process and Mike's path from Trader Joe's to Bob's
Family business themes and favorite characters to write
Script length, the Steve Miller Band bit, and casting choices
Casting comedians and the 'John Ham' vs 'Shrimp' change
Mike's shrimp tattoo and his experience showrunning during the pandemic
Collaborating on music with Nora Smith and the 'I Am Woman' draft
The show's musical style and John D'Aiello's compositions
Assistant duties, pitching jokes, and Garland Testa's advice
Mike's favorite hamburger at Good Dog in Philadelphia
Trader Joe's anecdotes: Lucy Lou, Danny Woodburn, and Forrest Whitaker
More celebrity sightings and favorite episodes of the show
Production order vs. air order and the 22-episode season
Emmy-winning episode and future ideas for the show
End credits music and wrap-up of the guest interview
Hosts' favorite characters and discussion of Star Trek: Lower Decks
Brian's favorite hamburger and celebrity sightings at Hugo's
Psych vs. Monk, Patreon promotion, and episode outro
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