In this episode, Dan is joined by Minneapolis-based comedian Ben Katzner, and they discuss actively avoiding each other, how you can get stuck in a “pocket” in a larger scene, and the importance of getting out of that comfort zone. In addition, Dan and Ben talk about the plague of vanishing clubs, allowing overconfidence to get in the way of doing a good show, being able to read the room and positioning yourself right with the audience, (once again) picking the right clothes, and the eternity that is 27 minutes of silence and the loneliness that follows. Additionally, the importance of recording everything and making that part of the routine.

Ben Katzner

A stand-up comedian and writer, Ben Katzner blends a subversive style, biting observational humor, and skilled storytelling to deliver a one-of-a-kind live show that's equal parts charming, smart, and relatable. 

Katzner regularly opens for comedian Kelsey Cook and has opened for a variety of performers, including Chad Daniels, Josh Johnson, Zainab Johnson, and Kyle Kinane. 

Besides performing in clubs and theaters across the country, Katzner has also participated in numerous comedy festivals, including the Limestone Comedy Festival, 10,000 Laughs Comedy Festival, Let's Fest, the Harlem Comedy Festival, and the Raleigh Comedy Festival. In 2025, Ben will be releasing his debut comedy album via Blonde Medicine's label, along with a coinciding comedy special on YouTube. 

Katzner is also a burgeoning talent in the graphic novel space. His debut graphic novel, "Hello, My Name is Poop," was published by Wonderbound Books in 2021. His second graphic novel, Muddy Waters Too (co-written with legendary rapper Redman), is set to be released in the summer of 2025. 

When he's not on a stage or behind a keyboard, Ben co-hosts the Troll Hole Podcast with comedian Mike Lester. Equal parts playful and painful, during the fast-paced show, the quick-witted duo of Lester and Katzner invite guests to discuss internet trolls, life in the public eye, and much more.

IG: https://www.instagram.com/shaqkatzner

Supple Harlot: https://youtu.be/KXf02vKB70k?si=qt56tFpmF8sabxki


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Art of Bombing:

"Nobody Had a Podcast Called The Art of Bombing" Theme by John Hult https://johnhult.bandcamp.com/album/half-a-life-to-recover
Website: https://www.artofbombingpod.com/
Links: https://linktr.ee/artofbombingpod
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-art-of-bombing-a-guide-to-stand-up-comedy--5788059/support.

Hosts:

Dan Bublitz Jr: http://www.danbublitz.com/
Larry Smith: https://larrysmithcomedy.com/