'It all started as a bit of fun': Interviewing @englishmanmike

Michael Baker is an observational comedian. He shares insights into the language and behaviour of us Brits, and how we differ from his new American neighbours.

Michael Baker is an observational comedian who shares insights into the language and behaviour of us Brits, and how we differ from his new American neighbours. At the time of writing, he’s gained a following of 334,000 on Instagram - roughly 10,000 more than when I began the interview via email less than a fortnight ago.

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What inspired you to start making videos?

It all started as a bit of fun. My daughter kept insisting I’d be rather good at it, though I wasn’t so sure myself. But once I began sharing the subtle, clever ways we Brits go about things, whether it’s how we complain, flirt, or throw shade, it really seemed to strike a chord. It’s been brilliant seeing people not just enjoying the humour, but actually learning and implementing things along the way.

Have you always been a keen observer of how people speak and behave?

That’s a great question! I’d say I’ve always had an interest in how people communicate, but it became much more of a focus when I moved to the U.S. Observing the nuances of language and behaviour, especially the subtle differences between British and American cultures, became a bit of a hobby and eventually a cornerstone of my content. It’s fascinating how small shifts in phrasing or tone can completely change the meaning or impact of what’s being said!

Thank you! Does this mean you got into misunderstandings when you first moved? And do you have a favourite example of this?

Oh, definitely! I had plenty of misunderstandings when I first moved. One of my favourites involves the British habit of saying "Sorry" for everything. Early on, someone stepped on my foot, and without thinking, I immediately apologized. They just stared at me like I’d grown a second head. It was the first time I realized my reflexive British politeness might need recalibrating.

Another classic was when I asked someone where the "toilet" was. They looked genuinely horrified like I’d just said something completely indecent. I quickly learned that Americans prefer euphemisms like "restroom" or "bathroom," even though neither involves much resting or bathing. It was one of those moments where I thought, "Right, I’m definitely not in England anymore."

You must have a very analytical mind. Is there an area of social life you think Americans have "got right," that we Brits could learn from?

Great question! Yes, I suppose I do tend to analyze things, comes with being British, doesn’t it? One thing I think Americans have absolutely “got right” is their openness and enthusiasm when it comes to meeting new people. In Britain, we’re much more reserved.

In the U.S., strangers will chat to you at the supermarket, in a queue, or even while you’re just minding your own business on a park bench. At first, I found it a bit alarming, like, “Why are they talking to me? Do they want something?” But I’ve come to admire it. It’s a kind of warmth and inclusiveness that I think we Brits could learn from. Imagine a world where someone in a British pub struck up a conversation without needing three pints of courage first. It’d be revolutionary!

It's very funny the way you describe your experiences. I think the American openness you speak of is much needed in England. It would lift everybody's spirit!

Would you ever take your humorous observations on stage at a comedy club?

Thank you! As for stand-up, I’ve thought about it, but I’m not sure I have the nerve. My British politeness would probably have me apologizing mid-set for wasting everyone’s evening! Never say never, though!

It's nice to know you've thought about it. I actually think apologizing to the crowd would suit your British persona perfectly. Finally, do you have any questions for me?

That’s a brilliant observation! Perhaps apologizing to the crowd would be my unique comedic hook. 😂

It would work! I can picture it. Let me know if you ever try.

As for questions, I’m curious: what drew you to writing about comedians? And do you find yourself picking up habits or humour from the people you interview?

Growing up with autism and ADHD was stressful. Comedy and stand-up comedy always made me feel a bit better. When something is genuinely funny, any negativity evaporates. Additionally, I'm always interested in how things work. A joke is like a car, you can pick out the moving parts and explain how their combined efforts get the thing moving, so these interviews help me to understand the jokes on a deeper level.

I do learn something new every time. I'm busy transcribing my third interview with a different American improv comic, this time it's Jimmy Carrane. Together these conversations have helped me make sense of a scene I've not had any in-person experience with.

Most of my interviews before this one have been surprisingly serious, so I need to find ways to bring out the humour in each performer. I've interviewed one other comic via text (Luke Poulton) and it was a bit more jokey, like this one. I need to interrogate that thought and see where it leads me.

Thank you so much for doing the interview Michael. It's been sublime.