interview: Sal Governale On 'Big Meals, Small Places'

When you think of "Howard Stern Show" writer Sal Governale your first thought may not be cooking, but the master of the phony phone call knows his way around the kitchen.

To show off his culinary skills, and help other people learn how to perform edible magic Governale has launched a YouTube show, "Big Meals, Small Places," in which he travels to various homes and shows people how make meals using only their toaster oven.

Governale sat down for an interview with Empty Lighthouse via email to discuss the program.

How did you get the idea for "Big Meals, Small Places?"

It started organically on Twitter. I made an Italian roast pork on garlic bread with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe and kept getting requests for more recipes and then requests for videos.

I hooked up with Doug Goodstein and Todd Baker and suggested doing something that would not only taste great but a video that looked clean and professional.

I take a lot of pride in my dishes and felt they deserved the proper respect and production.

I also needed a twist, something different and appealing and that's when I came up with the toaster oven concept. It came easy because I've been cooking in a toaster oven for the past 15 years.

When my first son was born our microwave broke and my wife decided she didn't want to use one anymore so I improvised with the toaster oven.

We live in a small home so the title made perfect sense. "Big Meals, Small Places!"

How did you get Richard Christy involved?

Richard Christy loves beer and I love Richard so I asked if he wanted to pair up and "pair up" and he was kind enough to be a part of some of the episodes too!

Since then we've had some great comedians and guests such as Larry Caputo from "The Long Island Medium" and we have some great guests lined up for the future.

How do you produce the episodes?

The production comes from Doug and Todd and these guys do a spectacular job. We work real hard but these guys drag the footage back with them and edit it to make it appealing and desirable for the viewer. I give them so much credit.

One thing I notice most from the fans is that they appreciate the production value and I owe it all to Doug and Todd. They're awesome.

Is doing your own program part of your plan for life after Stern?

My life now (and hopefully for many years to come) is the radio show. Cooking is a hobby and I'm doing it because I truly enjoy it and I love sharing my recipes with the fans.

It's a form of entertainment -- creating, cultivating, fine tuning and presenting. When the final product is appreciated then my job is considered done. Good food plus pleasing people in a positive way is a win win.

Do you have any plans to go back on the road as a comedian or tour more with Richard Christy?

I've been dedicating my time and energy to the radio show but when I do have some free time I'll do a set at Governors on Long Island.

It's a great place to work out material so if your ever in the area you may see me there.

Plus it's great way to keep your finger on the pulse of comedy. I enjoy watching and learning from other comics and helping them too.

Collaborating with comedians is imperative to sharpen your skills and hone your craft. If you're ever near Governors stop in and you may see me. Just shout 143 and I'll make my way over! Haha!

To subscribe to "Big Meals, Small Spaces" and see other Sal Governale news visit his website horsetoothjackass.com.