My First Joke

Comedian Tim To joins My First Joke to share how he started stand-up comedy in Hong Kong during COVID, performing in empty venues, Zoom shows, and one of the toughest environments for new comics.

In this episode, we talk about what it takes to become a stand-up comedian, from bombing at open mics to developing a comedy style, navigating different audiences, and learning the difference between getting laughs and earning respect. Tim breaks down the realities of the Hong Kong comedy scene vs. Toronto comedy, including reserved crowds, cultural differences, and why bombing in front of a PTA crowd might be the ultimate nightmare.

We also dive into:

• Starting stand-up comedy during the pandemic
• Open mic experiences and first jokes
• Comedy in Hong Kong vs. North America
• Finding your voice as a comedian
• Dealing with bombing and tough crowds
• The global comedy scene and career growth

If you're interested in stand-up comedy, comedy podcasts, or behind-the-scenes stories from working comedians, this episode is for you.

Follow Tim To on Instagram: @timt0

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What’s the difference between stand-up comedy and storytelling—and why does it matter?

In this episode of My First Joke, host Karim Kanji talks with comedian and producer Michael Salvatore about how he found his voice through storytelling, and how it changed the way he approaches stand-up.

Michael shares how he got started taking classes at Second City, what it was like performing his first joke, and why early success can be misleading when you step into real comedy rooms. He also explains how storytelling helped him become more natural on stage, less dependent on memorization, and more connected to audiences.

The conversation dives into:

• How storytelling differs from traditional stand-up
• Why storytelling audiences are more forgiving—and more engaged
• The importance of timing, structure, and conciseness
• How to balance laughs with emotional depth
• Why personal stories can create stronger comedy

Michael also talks about producing his own storytelling show in Toronto and how combining storytelling with stand-up helped him stand out in a crowded comedy scene.

If you're a comedian, creative, or podcast listener interested in how great stories connect with audiences, this episode offers practical insights and real-world experience.

Follow My First Joke for more conversations with comedians about how they got started and how they craft their material.

What actually pushes someone to try stand-up comedy for the first time?

Karim Kanji sits down with comedian Carolina DG to unpack how she went from being “the funny one” in everyday life to stepping onto a stage and making it real. Her path isn’t traditional—and that’s exactly what makes it interesting.

Carolina talks about turning life experience into material, why she resisted comedy at first, and how she eventually found her footing without becoming a strict “joke writer.” Instead, she leans into presence, connection, and being a strong host—something that’s shaped her entire comedy journey.

The conversation also explores:

• The mindset shift needed to try stand-up for the first time
• What bombing feels like—and why it stops mattering
• How confidence on stage is built over time
• The balance between structure and spontaneity in comedy
• Creating opportunities in comedy beyond clubs and festivals

This episode offers a real-world look at building a creative career in comedy while juggling work, family, and everything in between.

If you’re thinking about trying stand-up—or just want an honest perspective from someone doing it their own way—this one’s worth a listen.

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On this episode of “My First Joke,” host Karim Kanji welcomes Toronto-based comedian John Mostyn for an honest and hilarious conversation about the journey into stand-up comedy. John shares how moving from Glasgow to Canada—and overcoming social anxiety—set him on a path to the stage. He recounts his early days in comedy, the nerves of performing for small crowds, and the gradual transition to making comedy a full-time career.

John opens up about performing in some of the most unusual venues imaginable, from sex clubs to pirate boats, and reflects on the differences between city and small-town audiences. He offers advice for new comics about focusing on material before crowd work, and highlights some of Toronto’s top rising comedians: Tracy Hamilton, Fiona O’Brien, Hisham Kelati, Chris Locke, Adam Christie, and Todd Graham.

Plus, John talks about his upcoming comedy album and the importance of living life outside of comedy to inspire new material.

Follow John Mostyn on Instagram: @jmostyncomedy

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In this episode, comedian Nitish Sakhuja joins us for an open and insightful conversation about his path in stand-up comedy. Nitish reflects on his personal health journey during the pandemic, the challenges and surprises of performing virtual shows, and how he found his comedic voice through years of experience. He shares stories from Toronto’s unique “weed show” scene, discusses the realities of moving to Los Angeles for greater opportunities, and the process of rebuilding his career from the ground up.

Nitish also talks about the invaluable support he’s received from comedy legends like Russell Peters and Kenny Robinson, and what it means to be part of a creative community. He offers candid thoughts on success, resilience, and his hopes for the future—whether it’s touring internationally or breaking into TV and film, all while staying dedicated to stand-up.

Tune in for an inspiring look at the hustle, heart, and humor behind Nitish’s journey. Follow Nitish on Instagram @nittysak and visit nitishsakhuja.com for more.

In this episode, Karim Kanji sits down with Toronto comedian Ernie Vicente for an insightful and entertaining conversation about the journey from everyday life to the comedy stage. Ernie shares how a college presentation and a viral wedding video inspired him to pursue stand-up, and reflects on the nerves and excitement of his first open mic experiences.

The discussion covers Ernie’s evolution as a comic—from experimenting with one-liners to embracing storytelling, and the ongoing process of finding his comedic voice. Ernie talks about building connections in the comedy scene, memorable moments like meeting Russell Peters and performing in the Yukon, and the realities of both great and challenging gigs.

Ernie also introduces his latest project, “Pinoys to Men,” a comedy-music show touring across Canada with Big Norm. Throughout the episode, listeners will hear candid stories, practical insights, and plenty of laughs about the creative process and the resilience it takes to succeed in comedy.

Tune in for an inspiring look at persistence, adaptation, and the joy of making people laugh.

In this episode, Karim Kanji sits down with comedian Nick Reynoldson for a candid and entertaining look at Nick’s two-decade journey in stand-up comedy. Nick shares how he stumbled into comedy through Humber’s writing and performance program, discovering his passion during a three-minute set at Yuk Yuk's. He reflects on the thrill of immediate audience feedback and the creative freedom that drew him to stand-up.

Nick recounts his early days running a monthly show, the support he received from friends and fellow comics, and his memorable first big break performing on Kenny Robinson’s legendary Nubian show—a pivotal platform for comics of colour in Toronto. He describes the high-pressure environment of the show, where comics could be booed off stage, and discusses Kenny’s lasting impact on the Canadian comedy scene.

The conversation explores Nick’s career highlights, including TV appearances, Just For Laughs, and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, as well as his experiences performing in the U.S. Nick and Karim discuss the current comedy boom, the rise of crowd work and audience participation, and how social media is changing the landscape. Nick shares his approach to adapting material for different cities, his favorite places to perform, and some of his toughest gigs—including a disastrous show in Cranbrook, B.C.

Nick also talks about performing virtual shows during the pandemic and gives a shoutout to up-and-coming comics Hershawn Arora, Peter Saran, and Jesse Singh. The episode wraps up with Nick sharing where fans can find him online and plans for future performances, including a possible appearance at Scarborough's Got Jokes Open Mic.

Visit Nick online at https://www.nickreynoldson.com/

Our final guest this season is comedia Himansu Patel. Himansu recounted his two-decade journey in comedy, starting from promoting parties in Montreal to performing at notable venues like the Broadway Comedy Club in New York City. He discussed the evolution of his comedic style and the importance of audience connection, particularly in diverse cities like Toronto. Himansu humorously reflected on his experiences in Japan and shared a comedic anecdote from a past job, showcasing his commitment to developing his craft. 

In this episode, Karim Kanji sits down with comedian Thea Rainford to explore her journey into stand-up and the stories behind her earliest jokes—a perfect fit for Karim’s upcoming season centered on comedians' “first jokes.”

Thea opens up about discovering comedy during a difficult breakup in the pandemic, when she began writing material about her ex and her beloved cat. She reflects on her first-ever showcase at Tallboys, where she delivered a hilariously sharp roast of her ex, and shares the emotional moment her father proudly declared her a “real comedian.”

Throughout the conversation, Thea discusses the ongoing process of shaping her comedic voice—through workshops, disciplined writing, and continuous stage time.

With humor, honesty, and shared excitement, this episode highlights Thea’s evolution as a performer.

Follow Thea on Instagram here -> https://www.instagram.com/thea_rain3/

Comedian Clif Knight is this week's guest on My First Joke.

Clif began by sharing his journey into stand-up comedy, detailing how he discovered the open mic scene in Toronto after moving from Mississauga. He described his initial performance as challenging, emphasizing the significance of preparation, which prompted him to create a personalized joke book for refining his material.

Over time, Clif's comedic style has transitioned from straightforward jokes to more intricate storytelling and comparisons. He expressed enthusiasm for his upcoming tour and his goal of producing a comedy album, highlighting his commitment to continuous improvement in the dynamic world of stand-up comedy.