Comedy talent manager and producer Barry Katz answers your questions about the stand-up comedy business in this episode of Industry Standard. Barry answers questions about how to turn your career around, his favorite SNL sketches, the traits of his least favorite comedians, how avant-garde comedians can succeed in the business, and more.

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In this episode, talent manager Barry Katz sits with stand-up comedian and actor Paul Rodriguez to discuss Paul's path to success in the entertainment business, from his desire to get out of Compton, to working as a doorman at the Comedy Store and getting noticed by Mitzi Shore, to becoming one of The Original Latin Kings of Comedy, and appearing in major motion pictures. Paul talks about working with Clint Eastwood, Michael Mann, Will Smith and more. He also provides insight into his joke writing process, and drops advice for aspiring comedians.

In Memory of Marty Callner August 25, 1946-March 17, 2025

In this classic and exclusive episode of Industry Standard, Marty Callner shares the story of his rise to show business success, from beginning as a local news director in Ohio, then on to directing Celtics broadcasts, before moving to Los Angeles where he directed numerous classic comedy specials for comedian like Robin Williams, Chris Rock, George Carlin, Jerry Seinfeld, and more, as well as directing iconic music videos for Aerosmith, Cher, Fleetwood Mac, Twisted SIster and more. Marty also reveals his proudest achievement in entertainment: creating the NFL x HBO series Hard Knocks. Marty also offers his advice for aspiring directors, producer and comedians working towards success in the entertainment industry.Blueprint for SuccessAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainmentbarrykatz.com

In this episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz has an insightful conversation with successful network executive Cheryl Bayer about her career. From orchestrating the success of shows like Baywatch, Sex and the City, and Family Guy, to connecting with actors like Rob Lowe, Chris Rock, Pamela Anderson, and more at the beginning of their careers. Blueprint for Successbarrykatz.com/blueprintAre you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!Barry Katz Entertainmentbarrykatz.com

Comedy talent manager Barry Katz provides a beacon of tough love and knowledge for anyone trying to navigate the extremely tough industry of stand-up comedy and entertainment. In this Ask Me Anything episode of Industry Standard, Barry takes your questions, and shares what makes a good stand-up premise, the road to success in stand-up comedy, and what makes people stand out as comics and entertainers. Blueprint for Success (https://barrykatz.com/blueprint) Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!

In this episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz chats with comedian and actor JB Smoove, as he opens up about the mindset that’s fueled his success. JB shares how his "Teflon mentality" keeps him focused on self-growth, and how he navigates opportunities—turning moments that seem like luck into career-shaping moves. He shares stories from his youth - growing up in a family that always kept him on his feet comedically, his audition with Larry David for Curb Your Enthusiasm, his special bond with Chris Rock, and reveals why he carries two phones and the powerful voice memos that help him stay grounded.

Blueprint for Success (https://barrykatz.com/blueprint) Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!

In this episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz sits down with comedian Pablo Francisco for an in-depth conversation about his journey in comedy. Pablo shares how he landed his first agent at rock bottom, his proudest moment performing for just eight people who changed his life, and the time he unknowingly took GHB and ended up in the hospital. He also opens up about the struggles of addiction, how he helped a friend fight for redemption, and why he believes Theo Von’s unique perspective makes him a standout comedian. Plus, Pablo discusses his plans for a sketch comedy YouTube channel and how technology is reshaping opportunities for comedians today.

Blueprint for Success (https://barrykatz.com/blueprint) Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!

Talent manager Barry Katz sits down with esteemed writer Perry Rein for an insightful conversation. Rein shares his journey, working odd jobs such as Al Pacino’s driver to getting fired on his birthday from his first big PA gig to winning an Emmy. Rein found his way through a writing assistant job and with the help of long time collaborator and partner, Gigi McCreery. He imparts words of wisdom every young and aspiring writer who hopes to break into the industry should hear.

Blueprint for Success (https://barrykatz.com/blueprint) Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!

In this episode of Industry Standard, Barry Katz, Emmy nominated comedian talent manager and TV/Film Producer imparts wisdom onto those who wish to pursue a career in entertainment. Barry shares with his viewers common misconceptions about the comedy industry, advice for new comedians, and how to find a balance when writing jokes.

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⁠⁠Industry Standard Video Podcast with Barry Katz⁠⁠

Barry Katz Entertainment⁠⁠barrykatz.com⁠⁠

Blueprint for Success⁠⁠Blueprint-for-Success.com⁠⁠Are you a comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, manager, host, podcaster or agent? Would you like personalized help to reach all of your goals in the entertainment business? Click the link to learn more & join our FREE industry networking group full of decades of experience!

In this classic episode, comedy talent manager Barry Katz sits with stand-up comedian and podcaster Marc Maron for an engaging and candid conversation, reflecting on their early days in the New York comedy scene, and Marc's success and evolution in stand-up and pioneering the podcast format with his WTF podcast. The episode also dives into some unresolved history, as Barry and Marc address lingering tensions from their past. Marc sends shout-outs to Nate Bargatze, Maria Bamford, and Al Madrigal; as well as thoughts on contemporaries and legends like Richard Pryor, Louis CK, and Johnny Carson.

Watch the podcast on YouTube

⁠Industry Standard Video Podcast with Barry Katz⁠

Barry Katz Entertainment

Blueprint for Success