Episode 1
How to Make Small Talk
John Wilson reflects on the delicate balancing act of making – and safely redirecting – casual conversation, highlighting the rewards and risks of small talk.
Where to watch How To with John Wilson
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.
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 1 episodes
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 2
How to Put Up Scaffolding
John Wilson offers a unique history of New York's hideous yet sprawling network of overhead "protection," otherwise known as scaffolding – and contemplates what it might take to reduce its nearly 300-mile eyesore presently overtaking the city.
Where to watch How To with John Wilson
Episode 3
How to Improve Your Memory
John Wilson taps into his "Memory Palace" for an unforgettable exploration into our ability – or inability – to remember things.
Where to watch How To with John Wilson
Episode 4
How to Cover Your Furniture
While trying to live peacefully with his furniture destroying cat, John Wilson explores the challenges of keeping an object in pristine condition.
Where to watch How To with John Wilson
Episode 5
How to Split the Check
John Wilson attempts to make sense of the intricacies – and fairness practices – behind the complex art of splitting the check.
Where to watch How To with John Wilson
Episode 6
How to Cook the Perfect Risotto
To thank his elderly landlord for all the times she has cooked and cleaned for him, John attempts to make her favorite dish.
Where to watch How To with John WilsonEpisode information updated Jul 22, 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 StewartSelfCredits
- 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
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