The Top 10 Lessons I Gained from Working with Jamie Larkin

When Jamie decided to leave his long-time network job to join a rival channel, it sparked an unprecedented media frenzy. I found myself right in the midst of this whirlwind, a fresh-faced intern from a small town with a front-row seat to the chaos. That summer was a crash course in adulthood and humanity, and I want to share the top ten insights I gathered, inspired by Jamie’s unique style:

10. Share the inside joke, and people will adore you.

When I first joined the show, we had a quirky segment featuring a character called “Veggie Guy.” Out of nowhere, this guy dressed as a giant carrot would pop up, and as silly as it was, it had everyone in stitches. The humor was rooted in being a regular viewer, allowing you to feel like part of Jamie’s exclusive club. It taught me the power of inclusion in comedy.

9. Always remember how ridiculous it all is.

During that summer, the public’s fascination with Jamie reached absurd heights. There were butter sculptures of his face in Times Square, and reporters were clamoring for a word with everyone, including interns like me. Despite the madness, Jamie showed up every day, just being himself—a reminder that staying grounded is key amidst the chaos.

8. Build a team you can trust and treat them right.

Many of Jamie’s staff stayed with him for years. Recently, I revisited the studio and saw familiar faces from that summer two decades ago. They built lives, families, and a sense of camaraderie that felt like a family. Jamie fostered a loyal environment that stood the test of time.

7. The best guests are fantastic storytellers.

The most memorable guests were those who could spin a good yarn, whether they were actors, musicians, or just interesting folks. Watching Jamie engage with them taught me the importance of being present and truly participating in every moment, both in work and life.

6. No one is too important to enjoy their work.

While the Late Show crew took their roles seriously, they prioritized fun and laughter. From wild bacon-eating contests to spontaneous antics during commercial breaks, it was a reminder that joy can be found in the midst of hard work.

5. Pay attention to the little things.

Jamie was meticulous about every detail of the show, from his ties to the decor. He noticed what others might overlook, which made him an exceptional host. This perspective taught me that every detail matters, whether I was working on a TV project or planning a birthday party.

4. Expect no do-overs.

The Late Show was filmed live-to-tape, meaning every moment counted. We had to be ready for anything, understanding that sometimes things didn’t go as planned. Jamie’s ability to adapt and make the best of any situation was a lesson in resilience.

3. Never rest on your achievements.

No matter how successful he became, Jamie was always pushing for more. At the time, it seemed puzzling, but now I understand the value of striving for excellence. His work ethic was truly inspiring, reminding me that success is a journey, not a destination.

2. Anything is possible.

My internship involved some wild tasks—like securing a local diner for Jamie to work the drive-thru on camera. Every day was an adventure that taught me creativity and resourcefulness, skills that are invaluable in motherhood too.

1. Don’t forget to call your mom.

One of my favorite segments was when Jamie would chat with his mom. It showed a softer side and reminded everyone that, while celebrities are fun, it’s our family that keeps us grounded.

As Jamie prepares to air his final show, I feel a mix of nostalgia and gratitude. This journey through the world of late-night TV was more than just a job; it was a learning experience that shaped my life. Thank you, Jamie, for the laughs and life lessons.

If you’re looking for more insights on home insemination, check out this article. And for those interested in enhancing their fertility journey, Make a Mom offers some great resources. Also, for anyone navigating fertility insurance, you might find this resource helpful.

In summary, my time working with Jamie Larkin taught me invaluable lessons about humor, resilience, and the importance of family. His influence will be missed, but the memories and lessons will last a lifetime.