[1][2] Based upon an interview with a special guest, Tompkins and several "improvisational friends" (often co-stars from The Thrilling Adventure Hour, Superego, No, You Shut Up!, or Bajillion Dollar Propertie$) performed narrative improv, set in a location provided by the guest.

Each interview begins with a question supplied by the previous episode's guest, without revealing their identity.

Additionally, Tompkins begins each show with a brief improvised stream of consciousness monologue.

In addition to in-studio tapings, Spontaneanation is often recorded in front of a live audience at Café Largo in Los Angeles.

[6] Paste magazine placed Spontaneanation in the fifth spot on their list of The 10 Best Comedy Podcasts of 2015, referring to it as "both an illuminating chat show and a strong argument in favor of the often-maligned artform of improv comedy.