How “Lucky” are we? Jim O’Heir (Jerry Gergich himself!) and Greg Levine are back to discuss Season 4, Episode 18 - it’s “Lucky!” They discuss the return of Ron’s post-coital polo shirt, Jerry’s mechanical envelope-stuffing method, Andy’s Women’s Studies exam, why it’s so fun to see Sean Hayes play an asshole, and much more. And stick around for an interview with our friend, Hadley Hall Meares, discussing her time as Amy Poehler’s stand-in on “Parks & Rec!” This episode was recorded on July 13, 2...
Aug 15, 2023•1 hr 17 min•Transcript available on Metacast Rob Lowe returns to talk “Campaign Shake-Up!” Rob and our hosts Jim O’Heir and Greg Levine discuss this episode’s appearance from the legendary Carl Reiner, how a magazine cover altered the character of Chris Traeger, the comedic talent of Kathryn Hahn, and much more. This episode was recorded on July 13, 2023.
Aug 08, 2023•34 min•Transcript available on Metacast Parks writer Norm Hiscock (whose illustrious writing credits include King of the Hill, Saturday Night Live, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine) joins Jim O’Heir and Greg Levine to discuss “S4E16: Sweet Sixteen” (written by… Norm Hiscock!). They discuss Jerry’s leap year birthday, R&B star Ginuwine, the joys of a simple plot, Wheels for Meals on Wheels, and Jim’s emotional backstory for this episode. Got a question for the Pawnee Town Hall? Send us an email at ParksandRecollectionTownHall@gmail.com ! This ep...
Aug 01, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jim O’Heir (Jerry Gergich himself!) and Greg Levine are here to discuss “Dave Returns!” They discuss Adam Scott’s tour de force performance in this episode, the triumphant return of Mouse Rat, Jim and Greg’s shared love for “We Are the World,” what if Jerry had a Duke Silver-style alter ego, and much more! Treat yo’ self and give it a listen! Got a question for the Pawnee Town Hall? Send us an email at ParksandRecollectionTownHall@gmail.com ! This episode was recorded on June 26, 2023....
Jul 25, 2023•49 min•Transcript available on Metacast Happy Galentine's Day! This week, Jim O'Heir and Greg Levine are talking "Operation Ann." Leslie Knope makes it her mission to find Ann Perkins a Valentine's date, Ron Swanson proves himself to be a master puzzle-solver, and, for one beautiful moment, Chris Traeger contemplates a life with Jerry Gergich. It’s an excellent Valentine’s Day episode - treat yo’ self and give it a listen! Got a question for the Pawnee Town Hall? Send us an email at ParksandRecollectionTownHall@gmail.com ! Episode rec...
Jul 18, 2023•50 min•Transcript available on Metacast Comedian, actor, and writer Kevin Dorff (known for his work with Conan O'Brien and his appearances on shows like The Office, 30 Rock, and White House Plumbers) joins Jim O'Heir and Greg Levine to discuss his role as Derek in “Bowling for Votes.” Yes, this is the episode where Ben Wyatt punches a guy. It’s also the episode where: Jerry Gergich gives a stranger his social security number, Tom Haverford stumbles upon the most effective (and most embarrassing) bowling technique in history, and Chris...
Jul 11, 2023•1 hr 10 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jim O’Heir (Jerry Gergich himself!) and writer Greg Levine are back to discuss S4E12 of Parks and Rec - it’s Campaign Ad! Jim and Greg discuss the arrival of Bobby Newport, Paul Rudd’s method acting, the Better Better Business Bureau, Greg’s brief turn as a film star, and so much more. Treat yo’ self! Got a question for the Pawnee Town Hall? Send us an email at ParksandRecollectionTownHall@gmail.com !
Jul 04, 2023•46 min•Transcript available on Metacast Writer Mike Scully ( The Simpsons, King of the Hill ) joins Jim O'Heir and writer Greg Levine to talk about one of our favorite Parks episodes: it’s S4E11, The Comeback Kid (written by Mike Scully)! They discuss one of the all-time funniest Parks & Rec bloopers, Ben Wyatt’s descent into madness, a delightful three-legged dog named Champion, and, most importantly, that chaotic scene on the ice rink. Give it a listen and treat yo’ self! Got a question for the Pawnee Town Hall? Send us an email at ...
Jun 27, 2023•57 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jason Mantzoukas joins Jim O’Heir (Jerry Gergich himself!) and writer Greg Levine to discuss “Citizen Knope” and his role as the Fragrance King of Pawnee: Dennis Feinstein! They discuss Jason’s various roles in the Schur-verse ( Parks and Rec , Brooklyn Nine-Nine , The Good Place ), a major change in Leslie’s political campaign, Jerry’s perfect Christmas gift, Barney Varmn's accounting firm, and much more. Got a question for the Pawnee Town Hall? Send us an email at ParksandRecollectionTownHall@...
Jun 20, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Transcript available on Metacast Our friend and (former host of this very podcast!) Rob Lowe joins Jim O’Heir and writer Greg Levine once again to discuss the wonderful world of Pawnee! This week, we’re talking S4E9: The Trial of Leslie Knope. They discuss Rob's viral 9-1-1: Lone Star moment, the evolution of Chris Traeger’s character, the amazing Helen Slayton-Hughes (better known to Parks fans as court stenographer Ethel Beavers), the power of specificity in comedy, and a very important revelation about Jerry Gergich's birth ...
Jun 13, 2023•46 min•Transcript available on Metacast The hilarious Chelsea Peretti (Netflix, Brooklyn Nine-Nine) joins Jim O’Heir (Jerry Gergich himself!) and writer Greg Levine to discuss the best writer’s room snacks, an important moment in Ben and Leslie’s relationship, working with the brilliant Harris Wittels, and much more. It’s Season 4, Episode 8 (directed by the brilliant Nicole Holofcener): “Smallest Park!” Chelsea also discusses her upcoming feature directorial debut, “First Time Female Director" - co-starring and produced by Amy Poehle...
Jun 06, 2023•52 min•Transcript available on Metacast “We got the freaking Moon!” Jim O’Heir (Jerry Gergich himself) and writer Greg Levine are discussing Season 4, Episode 7 of Parks and Recreation - it’s “The Treaty!” A meeting of the Pawnee Central High School's Model UN club leads to a historic face-off between Leslie and Ben, Ron and Tom interview some terrible job applicants (including Kyle Mooney and the show’s actual accountant!), and Chris seeks dating advice from his co-workers (including, for some reason, his girlfriend’s father). It’s a...
May 30, 2023•47 min•Transcript available on Metacast Hail Zorp! Actress/director Natalie Morales (who Parks fans know and love as Lucy!) joins Jim O’Heir (Jerry Gergich himself!) and writer Greg Levine to discuss one of our favorite Parks episodes: End of the World. The three discuss the surprise return of Lucy, Andy Dwyer’s bucket list, the finances of Entertainment 720, and much, much more. See Natalie in the upcoming comedy film “No Hard Feelings” (starring Jennifer Lawrence) this summer!
May 23, 2023•42 min•Transcript available on Metacast It’s a Gergich family reunion! Sarah Wright Olsen (aka Millicent Gergich) joins her TV dad Jim O'Heir and writer Greg Levine to discuss her days on Parks, her TV mom Christie Brinkley, and much more. Jim and Greg also recap a great Halloween episode of Parks, featuring rubber nipples, blood orphans, and the spookiest man in Pawnee - Orin. Treat yo’ self!
May 16, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Transcript available on Metacast The episode that birthed a cultural phenomenon - Jim O’Heir and writer Greg Levine are here to discuss “Pawnee Rangers,” better known as the “Treat Yo’ Self” episode! Yes, it’s the B-story that (accidentally) changed the way we talk about self-care forever. Jim and Greg discuss Treat Yo’ Self Day, the Pawnee Rangers vs Pawnee Goddesses, Greg's stint as Pierre, Chris' budding romance with Jerry's daughter, and much more. You will not want to miss this episode!
May 09, 2023•53 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jim O'Heir (Jerry Gergich himself!) and writer Greg Levine are joined this week by actress and comedian Mo Collins, who Parks fans know and love as Joan Callamezzo, the host of Pawnee Today. They discuss one of our favorite Parks scenes of all time - and explore what makes Mo such a gifted comedic performer. Jim and Greg also discuss Leslie’s shocking birthplace, Ann’s quest to make Ron and April enjoy chatting with her, and much more. Treat yo’ self!
May 02, 2023•1 hr 17 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jim O'Heir (Jerry Gergich himself!) and writer Greg Levine are here to discuss another great episode of Parks and Recreation: Ron and Tammys. They discuss the brilliant Patricia Clarkson's performance as Tammy One, why we all idolize Paula Pell (who plays Ron's mom, Tammy Zero), and Jim explains the secret behind proper jug chugging. Treat yo’ self!
Apr 25, 2023•56 min•Transcript available on Metacast Welcome back to Pawnee! Today Rob Lowe ushers in a new era of Parks and Recollection, handing over the reins to our new hosts: the great Jim O’Heir (Jerry Gergich himself!) and writer/script coordinator Greg Levine. Our hosts discuss the show’s jam-packed season four premiere, featuring the start of Leslie’s city council campaign, the first appearance of Tammy One, and an important revelation about Jerry’s, ahem, package. Got a question for the Pawnee Town Hall? Send us an email: ParksandRecolle...
Apr 18, 2023•53 min•Transcript available on Metacast Your favorite Parks and Recreation rewatch podcast is back with new hosts! Jim O’Heir (Jerry Gergich himself!) and writer/script coordinator Greg Levine are taking the reins, and they couldn’t be more excited to have you along. Each week, Jim and Greg will talk through a new episode of Parks and Rec, breaking down all our favorite moments and characters. Join them in Pawnee every Tuesday, beginning Tuesday, April 18! Special guests include Rob Lowe, Jason Mantzoukas, Chelsea Peretti, and more!...
Apr 14, 2023•43 sec•Transcript available on Metacast Today Rob Lowe and Alan Yang have a huge show for a small horse when recapping the season three finale of Parks and Recreation. In "Li'l Sebastian" Leslie and the Parks Department organize a memorial for a departed friend. In this episode you'll find out how an awkward encounter in the writer's room caused one of the funniest jokes on the show, which character is like Colossus from The X-Men, why changing Tom's career trajectory was important, an update on Biff Yeager, and a huge bombshell is re...
Jul 26, 2022•1 hr•Transcript available on Metacast The hilarity is popping in Pawnee, when Rob Lowe and Alan Yang discuss S3E15 of Parks and Recreation! In "The Bubble" Leslie's mom makes a pass at Ben, not knowing that he and Leslie are dating. On today's episode the team share how fun it is to have Chris interacting with all of the parks department, Greg gives insights on his first writing credit, and why it took so long to get Marlene back in an episode! All of this and some surprising data about opening credits. Got a question for the Pawnee...
Jul 19, 2022•47 min•Transcript available on Metacast Grab your banjo and put on your seatbelts because today Rob Lowe and Alan Yang are watching S3E14 of Parks and Recreation! In "Road Trip" Chris sends Leslie and Ben on a trip to the capital while Tom's new game creates tension between April and Andy. In this episode you'll hear why the rare bonding moment between Ann and April was important, Mike Schur's love of Neutral Milk Hotel and hate for hot fruit, how RoLo's Banjo improv came to be, and why creating a mix CD is a true artform. All of this...
Jul 12, 2022•52 min•Transcript available on Metacast Pawnee is full of clearances and apologies when Rob Lowe and Alan Yang tackle S3E13. In The Fight Tom invites everyone to the Snakehole as he debuts a new drink, and Leslie encourages Ann to apply for a job with the city. On today's episode find out how front loading the B-story helped the slow burn of the A-story, why Janet Snakehole has a Mid-Atlantic accent, and which actors improvised their drunk talking heads. All of this and some interesting talk about agents! Got a question for the Pawnee...
Jul 05, 2022•46 min•Transcript available on Metacast Call your friends and welcome them to Pawnee. Today Rob Lowe and Alan Yang are watching S3E12. In "Eagleton" Leslie is forced to deal with a former beloved colleague-turned bitter enemy when a neighboring town separates a shared park with a fence. On this episode find out how amazing it was to work with Nicole Holofcener, why a trash fight convinced Parker Posey to be in this episode, what in this script made Rashida cry, and why Alan never keeps ice cream in his home! Got a question for the Paw...
Jun 28, 2022•46 min•Transcript available on Metacast You never know when inspiration will strike while visiting Pawnee—and today Rob Lowe and Alan Yang are inspired by S3E11 of Parks and Recreation! In "Jerry's Painting" Chris deals with community uproar over Jerry's new painting, and Ben tries to help teach Andy and April responsibility after he moves in with them. On today's episode you'll hear why Ben couldn't just live alone, how it was important for Chris to deliver non-jokes in a humorous way, and how a misbehaving Leslie strengthened the ch...
Jun 21, 2022•39 min•Transcript available on Metacast Grab your food rakes because today Rob Lowe and Alan Yang are swiping right on S3E10! In "Soulmates" Leslie is matched up with Tom on an Internet dating website, while Chris and Ron compete in a hamburger cook-off. On today's episode find out why clarity in comedy helps the audience laugh, how copyright trouble helped make better comedy, and why RoLo loves this episode! All of this and why Danny Glover's love for prop food is rivaled only by Chris Pratt's. Got a question for the Pawnee Town Hall...
Jun 14, 2022•41 min•Transcript available on Metacast Today Rob Lowe and Alan Yang are celebrating love in this landmark Parks and Recreation episode! In "Andy and April's Fancy Party" April and Andy's dinner party turns into a surprise wedding. On today's podcast you'll hear why this unwieldy script gave the actors more drive, how airconditioning can be funky on set, the silliness of a rare Donna and Ann B-story, and why Tom Cruise had a tooth removed in The Outsiders. All of this and the first appearance of Orin! Got a question for the Pawnee Tow...
Jun 07, 2022•37 min•Transcript available on Metacast Pack your bags because Rob Lowe and Alan Yang are heading to the Disney Ranch to recap S3E8 of Parks and Recreation! In "Camping" Leslie takes the whole department camping in order to brainstorm new ideas. On today's episode find out how this episode mirrored the writer's room retreats, why team building exercises didn't always help build the team, and some insider knowledge on a filming technique called the Texas Switch. Come for the Parks and Rec recap, stay for the NCIS lore! Got a question f...
May 31, 2022•44 min•Transcript available on Metacast It's a festival of massive proportion on today's episode, when Rob Lowe and Alan Yang recap S3E7 of Parks and Recreation. In "Harvest Festival" the day before the fest, a local Native American leader places a "curse" on the event because Leslie refuses to give in to his demands. On today's episode find out what happens when the entire town of Pawnee comes together, the origin of Li'l Sebastian, we get to the bottom of the Matchbox 20 / Rachel Ray mystery, and why a drone shot was necessary for w...
May 24, 2022•49 min•Transcript available on Metacast Today we're taking a trip, as Rob Lowe and Alan Yang recap the sixth episode of Parks and Rec's third season! In "Indianapolis" Leslie and Ron journey to Indianapolis to receive a commendation from the state. On today's episode find out why S3E6 could have been the last episode for Chris Traeger, how the Ron Swanson meat meme evolved, how blocking for tv works, and the rare dramatic turn in this episode that raised the stakes! All of this and your host's favorite steakhouses! Got a question for ...
May 17, 2022•48 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
