Today I am joined by several recent writing students and answer their comedy questions. Specifically, we talk about:

• What is a good way to know that you should continue pursuing stand-up comedy?
• How many shows is a good barometer for getting your feet wet?
• When should you quit!
• The value in bombing (and recording it)
• Is it okay to try different characters when you first start?
• A bunch of things that can go wrong during your show
• How to perform when you just don't feel funny
• Performing when you are sick
• Having a back-up comedian friend ready for some gigs
• The value of listening to comedy when you are down
• What Minnie Pearl said about audiences
• When you are there for the audience (and when they are there for you)
• The adrenaline surge you get when performing
• The connections between comedy and speaking
• How to structure a speech based on your comedy
• Finding your HOOK for your message
• When should you transition into movies from stand-up?
• The benefits of character work in your comedy
• Tips on incorporating voices and characters into stand-up
• Should you try a bunch of characters when you first start at open mic?
• The benefits of no one knowing who you are
• What Garth Brooks did that you shouldn't do
• Jim Gaffigan workshopping new material
• How to workshop new material and where is best to try
• Songwriter open mics versus comedy open mics
• Following a great (or horrible) act on stage

and a whole lot more!

This episode is brought to you by Patreon Sponsor Allen Smith. To find our how you can support the podcast with a small monthly donation, visit www.Patreon.com/SchoolOfLaughs.

Do you have comedy questions? Send them in and I'll address them on the show. [email protected].

CLUB 52!

"Club 52" is a 52 week, email based stand-up program. It will include a weekly challenge designed to help you become a better comedian. This year long program will feature an email every Friday from me. I will ask you to take a serious look at some of your business practices, writing processes, performance techniques, branding, marketing and a whole lot more.

The program starts the week you join and continues for 52 weeks as long as you are still supporting the podcast through Patreon at the $7 a month level. Questions? Email me (Rik) at [email protected]. Or call 1-888-895-8549. Or. if you are ready, head on over to www.Patreon.com/SchoolOfLaughs to get started.