Phil Donohue passed today at the age of 88. The internet is abuzz with stories and people reminiscing about the TV pioneer. We thought we’d join in on the action. So, what made Phil Donohue great? He listened. If you had a strongly held belief, Phil Donohue would listen. He was also smart enough to know his audience might have better or at least different questions. Phil Donohue respecting the audience enough to let them participate was, in my opinion the stroke of genius. That and the fact that Phil seemed to genuinely be interested in what his guest had to say. Many a Gen-Xer who stayed home from school owes a big debt of thanks to Phil Donohue. That show was great. RIP Phil. Here’s a couple clips I really dig from the Phil Donahue show. These are ideas a kid wouldn’t get anywhere else on TV.