How To with John Wilson poster

TV series

How To with John Wilson

2020TV-MA3 seasons8.1 / 10

Hey, New York.

In a uniquely hilarious odyssey of self-discovery and cultural observation, documentary filmmaker and self-described "anxious New Yorker" John Wilson covertly and obsessively films the lives of his fellow New Yorkers while attempting to give everyday advice on relatable topics. The awkward contradictions of modern life are eased by Wilson’s candid, unpolished commentary. Building upon Wilson’s previously released "how to" short films, each episode takes wildly unexpected turns but is grounded in John's refreshing honesty.

Streaming, rental and purchase options

Where to watch in United States

Checked Jul 22, 2026

How To with John Wilson is available to stream on HBO (Via Hulu), HBO Max, Max (Via Amazon Prime), and YouTube TV in United States. Use the direct links below to open the provider.

Availability and prices can change. Confirm the details on the streaming service before you subscribe, rent or buy.

Synopsis

In a uniquely hilarious odyssey of self-discovery and cultural observation, documentary filmmaker and self-described "anxious New Yorker" John Wilson covertly and obsessively films the lives of his fellow New Yorkers while attempting to give everyday advice on relatable topics. The awkward contradictions of modern life are eased by Wilson’s candid, unpolished commentary. Building upon Wilson’s previously released "how to" short films, each episode takes wildly unexpected turns but is grounded in John's refreshing honesty.

Season 3 episodes

Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.

← Season 2

Episode 1

How to Find a Public Restroom

29m8.7 / 10

As the availability of public restrooms dwindles in NYC, John tries to find clever ways to relieve himself.

Episode credits

Directed by John Wilson

Where to watch How To with John Wilson

Episode 2

How to Clean Your Ears

29m8.0 / 10

After having his ears properly cleaned, John wonders if better hearing is what he actually wants.

Episode credits

Directed by John Wilson

Where to watch How To with John Wilson

Episode 3

How to Work Out

29m8.0 / 10

John starts working out and tracks the pros and cons of big.

Episode credits

Directed by John WilsonGuest stars Mariska Hargitay, Christopher Meloni, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Martha Stewart, Michael Bloomberg, Elon Musk

Where to watch How To with John Wilson

Episode 4

How to Watch the Game

29m8.0 / 10

John's discovery of the deeply-embedded rituals and bonding in sports leads to a greater appreciation of the game.

Episode credits

Directed by John WilsonGuest stars Ron Howard

Where to watch How To with John Wilson

Episode 5

How to Watch Birds

29m7.7 / 10

After realizing too much of his life is spent inside, John tries out birding, which opens up a world of possibility...and dubious claims.

Episode credits

Directed by John Wilson

Where to watch How To with John Wilson

Episode 6

How to Track Your Package

38m8.7 / 10finale

After having a delivery stolen, John investigates how to keep his packages secure.

Episode credits

Directed by John Wilson

Where to watch How To with John Wilson

Episode information updated Jul 23, 2026

More about How To with John Wilson

Cast

John WilsonSelf
Kyle MacLachlanSelf (Swiping MetroCard on the Subway)
Liz SchackSelf
YanjaaSelf
Mariska HargitaySelf
Christopher MeloniSelf
Maggie GyllenhaalSelf
Martha StewartSelf

Credits

Created by
John Wilson
Written by
Alice Gregory, John Wilson, Michael Koman, Susan Orlean, Conner O'Malley

Production details

Status
Ended
Series type
Scripted
Episodes
18
Original language
English

Networks & production

  • HBOUnited States
  • Blow Out ProductionsUnited States
  • John's Movies
  • Atlantic PicturesUnited States

Themes

anti-humordocumentary filmmakingnew york cityrealismurban life