How do conservatives survive a stint on HBO’s “Real Time” with Bill Maher? First, they spell his name right.

An email circulating the story today reads, “How conservatives survive a stint on Bill Mahrer [sic].” No offense, TWT — spelling gaffes happen to the best and worst of us.

The meat of the story by Patrick Hruby is insightful. They provide a “Real Time” Survival Guide for conservatives who choose to go on the show. The gist of it: Prepare your ass off or be prepared to be embarrassed. Those quoted in the story include Reason‘s Nick Gillespie, former Rep. Rick Lazio (R-N.Y.), GBTV’s Amy Holmes, and Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist.

TWT goes relatively easy Maher. They essentially write that he’s a polite potty mouth with a large staff who knows the issues.

A quote from Lazio points to a sentimental side of Maher not usually displayed on TV:

“I wouldn’t keep doing the show if people were talking over me and not letting me express my point of view,” Mr. Lazio said. “Bill doesn’t do that. The last time I was on, he came up to me afterward and said, ‘I know it’s very difficult for you and people who are more conservative to come on the show, and I just want you to know I do appreciate and respect the fact that you were willing to do this.’ Now, I don’t need to hear that. But it’s nice.”