Tina Fey and Conan O’Brien share the secret to success in comedy

Conan O’Brien had his podcast wish come true when Tina Fey sat down for an episode of Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend.

For anyone interested in a career in comedy, modeling him or herself after Tina Fey and Conan O’Brien is a good start. Easier said than done, yes but the two chatted about life in comedy on “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” and it may be simpler than you think.

Fey has been a longtime guest of O’Brien’s late night shows dating back to her time as Saturday Night Live‘s head writer and “Weekend Update” host. That continued during Fey’s run on 30 Rock, her movie career, and the launch of her Netflix series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.

During that time O’Brien has developed a strong admiration for Fey as a comedy writer and performer. The late night host admitted that Fey was his ideal guest for his “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” podcast.

O’Brien’s wish was granted in just the second episode of season two. The pair gave listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the old school approach they take to comedy and show business. And seeing the results of their careers, it’s very difficult to argue with their style.

For Conan O’Brien, Tina Fey’s work ethic is her most admirable trait. She is willing to put in the time and effort necessary to write and come up with the stories and jokes that have made her a comedy icon. It’s why she became the first female head writer of Saturday Night Live, why 30 Rock remains one of the best sitcoms, and why she was able to turn the success of Mean Girls into a Broadway production.

And while O’Brien sings Fey’s praises, he shares the exact same characteristics that he appreciates in Fey. O’Brien’s work ethic got him into Harvard, got him writing gigs with The Simpsons and Saturday Night Live, and got Late Night with Conan O’Brien out of an early funk to become a body of work that inspired an entire generation of comedians.

It’s not often that fans get to hear two comedy legends talk about their craft while still in their prime. It was certainly one of the more inspirational episodes of O’Brien’s podcast as the virtues of hard work were celebrated by two people decades into their success.

Following the premiere episode with David Letterman and now having Tina Fey on, it is clear that it will be a big year for “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend.” Keep checking in with Last Night On for all the highlights.