After his “nine year Raymond cocoon,” Rosenthal noticed these issues extending beyond sitcoms into all forms of television, including travel. There’s a lot of aspirational content, not inspirational content.

“Take Anthony Bourdain as an example,” Rosenthal explains. “He’s amazing, and I think a lot of people live vicariously through him. But most of us aren’t going to do what Bourdain does — aren’t going to Beirut to get shot at. I’m not saying I’m better than him, but I do think more people are like me than are like him.”

In his words, Rosenthal is the guy sitting at home, watching Bourdain and thinking, “I’ll never do that.” And much like he did with Raymond, he’s parlaying that sentiment into content aimed at connecting with — and then inspiring — the everyman.

“On my show, I’m not interested in eating crazy stuff, like lamb eyeballs, that doesn’t sound delicious to a regular person,” he says. “And when I pick locations, I start with the greatest hits — Paris, Barcelona, Tokyo. Places people will actually visit… Which doesn’t mean I won’t try anything new. It just means I’m relatable.”

The reason being: A wildly adventurous show is entertaining, but does it inspire people to travel?

“Maybe, maybe not. But I do think the best way to motivate someone is by showing them how to do something. People watch my show and think: ‘If this schleppy guy can do it, so can I.’ Then maybe they book a vacation. And isn’t that what it’s all about? That the world will be a better place if we all get a taste of one another’s experiences?”