Open Mic Comedy Podcast

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, host Marc sits down with Australian open mic comic Joey Seph for an engaging and candid conversation. They delve into Joey's journey through the comedy world, comparing the scenes in Canberra and Sydney, and the crucial process of discovering one's comedic voice.The discussion covers the intricacies of joke writing, the art of timing and pacing in a set, and the common pitfalls comedians face on stage. Joey and Marc share personal stories about their early jokes, the relentless drive for improvement, and the value of mastering crowd work. They also touch on the challenges of incorporating audio clips into their acts and the importance of self-reliance during performances.Joey opens up about his highlights, such as performing for a comedy idol and making his family laugh, as well as his low points, including technical glitches and failed riffs. They discuss the mixed emotions Joey has about his comedy career and the moments when he considers quitting.Throughout the episode, Marc and Joey reflect on the significance of finding strong openers, handling negative self-criticism, and the ongoing process of honing their craft. They talk about the allure of trying different comedy styles, like character comedy, and the benefits of stepping outside their comfort zones. The conversation wraps up with a fun challenge from the book of Shit Jokes, adding a lighthearted end to an insightful episode. ————————Joey Seph Links:https://www.instagram.com/joey_seph_comedy/ Open Mic Comedy Podcastwww: https://openmiccomedypod.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Rebecca Sangster-Kelly (RSK) takes us through her journey in stand-up comedy, sharing how she discovered her unique style and uses humour to tackle taboo topics. She highlights the importance of understanding her audience and pushing boundaries while staying relatable.The conversation delves into the influence of other comedians and the phenomenon of similar jokes emerging in the comedy scene. Rebecca recounts her first gig on Father's Day and opens up about the challenges of balancing motherhood with her comedy career. She underscores the importance of networking and learning from both successful and not-so-successful gigs.Discussing the benefits of writing classes, Rebecca explores the fine line between authenticity and exaggeration in comedy, even sharing her favourite joke about a royals sexual practice. Throughout the discussion, she reflects on her experiences, from finding her comedic voice to developing her stage persona.She offers insights into open mic nights, the use of stage names, and the significance of all-women comedy shows. The episode wraps up with a look at the value of comedy challenges and the need for comedians to continually adapt and evolve.————————RSK Links:https://www.instagram.com/rsangsterkelly/https://linktr.ee/RSKcomedy Open Mic Comedy Podcastwww: https://openmiccomedypod.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Part 2 of this special episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, I am joined by 3 of the first 4 ever podcast guests: Kim Hope, Hasan Al-Habib and Jim Hooker, with a smattering of Chris Ali from beyond the studio. We get into the question - out of the 4 of us who would MC, open, middle and close each of their own comedy nights. Advice for using social media in the modern day for the benefit of comedy, revealing the best tips we've received whilst on the circuit and much much more….LINKS:Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypodKim Hope: https://www.instagram.com/thatkimhopeHasan Al-Habib: https://www.instagram.com/amusingarabJim Hooker: https://www.instagram.com/jimhcomedy ————————EDINBURGH TICKET LINKS:Kim Hope [Is That Not Normal]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/kimberly-policella-and-kim-hope-is-that-not-normalHasan Al-Habib [2 Muslin 2 Furious - Mecca Drift]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/2-muslim-2-furiousJim Hooker [Pitch It Good Podcast Live]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pitch-it-good-live————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this special episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, I am joined by 3 of the first 4 ever podcast guests: Kim Hope, Hasan Al-Habib and Jim Hooker, with a smattering of Chris Ali from beyond the studio. In this episode we discuss the progress each of the guests have made with their own comedy projects and the anticipation of taking their respective shows to the Edinburgh Fringe 2024.As well, as Edinburgh we get into some topics about funny things that have happened over the last 6 months to our guests. We delve into some writing techniques and performance enhancements they've all made. How they see the comedy industry, and just general experience within it. It's also as entertaining as hell, and full of outstanding takeaways from everyone. This is Part 1.... Part 2 to follow in the coming days if you are watching this on the day of release.————————LINKS:Open Mic Comedy Pod: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod Kim Hope: https://www.instagram.com/thatkimhope Hasan Al-Habib: https://www.instagram.com/amusingarab Jim Hooker: https://www.instagram.com/jimhcomedy————————EDINBURGH TICKET LINKS:Kim Hope [Is That Not Normal]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/kimberly-policella-and-kim-hope-is-that-not-normalHasan Al-Habib [2 Muslin 2 Furious - Mecca Drift]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/2-muslim-2-furiousJim Hooker [Pitch It Good Podcast Live]: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pitch-it-good-live————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode, host Marc sits down with Michael Yanny, the creative force behind Yogie Belle. They delve into Michael's rich background in writing and directing, his passion for animation, and his adventurous leap into stand-up comedy. Michael opens up about his journey, sharing his experiences making award-winning short films and eventually transitioning into the comedy scene.They discuss the critical elements of comedy, such as physicality, storytelling, and the power of silence, all aimed at bringing joy and entertainment to others. Michael reflects on his evolution as a comedian, including overcoming his stage fright and developing his character work. He reveals his favourite jokes and routines, emphasising the importance of taking the audience on a storytelling journey.In the final segment, Michael talks about expanding his repertoire from short sets to hour-long shows, the nuances of live performance, and the thrill of connecting with an audience. He highlights the therapeutic power of laughter and the joy of making people happy. The episode wraps up with a fun challenge: Marc dares Yogie to tell a joke from a  sh*t joke book on stage and record it, promising a light-hearted end to an insightful conversation. ————————Yogie Belle Links:https://www.instagram.com/yogie.belle Just Desserts (Short Film - Amazon Prime): https://rb.gy/y206mp————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode, Henry Reilly, co-owner of the Other Side Comedy Team, delves into his personal journey within the comedy world, emphasising the pivotal role of writing and refining comedic material. He shares insights into the essential nature of open mic nights, which serve as a platform for budding comedians to hone their craft, and the supportive community that bolsters performers within the comedy circuit.Henry recounts the intricate process of initiating a comedy night, including the significant challenges encountered in securing a suitable venue. He underscores the value of friendship and collaboration, highlighting how these elements are crucial to thriving in the comedy industry. Throughout the episode, Henry elaborates on the operational aspects of running comedy shows at various locations, shedding light on the logistical hurdles of finding and maintaining these venues.Sharing personal anecdotes, Henry discusses his most memorable moments on stage, both triumphant and disastrous, and provides a glimpse into his experiences at the Brighton Fringe. He offers a detailed account of his joke writing process, balancing the introduction of new material with the perfection of existing bits. In the latter part of the conversation, Henry and Marc dive into the intricacies of crafting effective jokes, refining material, and the crucial feedback loop provided by audience reactions.The episode wraps up with a light-hearted discussion about the significance of walk-on music for comedians and concludes with a fun challenge where Henry attempts to tell a joke sourced from a joke book. This comprehensive conversation offers a rich tapestry of insights into the comedic world, reflecting both the challenges and joys of pursuing a career in comedy.————————Henry Reilly Links:https://www.instagram.com/henry_reilly/https://www.instagram.com/theothersidecomedy/ Open Mic Comedy Podcastwww: https://openmiccomedypod.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode, we chat with Tevin Everett, a talented writer, director, and comedian. Tevin takes us through his unique journey from the military to the comedy scene in Los Angeles, and now in London. He dives into the differences between American and British comedy, noting the impressive quality of London’s open mic nights.Tevin doesn’t shy away from sharing his most challenging comedy experience in London, as well as his best moments on stage, like winning the Big Belly Ding Dong competition and performing at The Blackout. He also gives us a sneak peek into his show "Secretly Pissed" and talks about his favourite joke that always gets the audience laughing.Throughout our conversation, Tevin explains his approach to writing and performing comedy. He reveals how he crafts his jokes by starting with a premise and building them into a three-act story, emphasising the importance of smooth transitions and compelling storytelling. He also shares his insights on the comedy scene in London, the challenges of lengthy shows, and the constant need for more stage time. Plus, Tevin lets us in on his choice of music to kick off a comedy set and his all-time favourite joke.————————Tevin Everett Links:https://www.instagram.com/tevthewriter/https://www.instagram.com/secretlypissedcomedy/ Open Mic Comedy Podcastwww: https://openmiccomedypod.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

Join us in this episode as we sit down with Kimberly Policella, a comedian and author, who shares her incredible journey in the world of comedy and writing. Kimberly opens up about how she first ventured into comedy, recounting her favourite moments on stage, the challenges she’s faced, and her memorable appearance on Comedy Central's "Out of Order."She also delves into her work as an author, her upcoming projects, and her plans for a future show based around her role as "The Trophy Wife." Throughout our conversation, Kimberly emphasises the importance of consistency and progression in creative pursuits.We explore her creative process, discussing how she balances the art of writing with the craft of performance. Kimberly highlights the crucial role both words and delivery play in making a joke land. She also talks about the significance of her stage persona, including how her appearance and style enhance her act.Kimberly shares her experiences performing at the Brighton Fringe with Kim Hope as part of their split bill show “Is That Not Normal” and how daily performances there helped her refine her set, plus listen to the details of  the upcoming run at the Edinburgh Fringe festival during August of 2024.Don't miss this insightful and entertaining conversation with the one and only Kimberly Policella!————————Kimberly Policella Links:https://www.instagram.com/kimberlypolicella/ IsThatNotNormal Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isthatnotnormalEdinburgh Fringe: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/kimberly-policella-and-kim-hope-is-that-not-normal Open Mic Comedy Podcastwww: https://openmiccomedypod.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/————————Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, join host Marc as he chats it up with the hilarious comedian Daniel Cohen. They dive into the world of comedy, sharing personal stories and discovering the incredible impact laughter can have. Daniel opens up about his journey into comedy, revealing how it became a healing balm after a devastating loss.Together, they navigate through the wild and wonderful landscape of open mic nights, where comedy knows no bounds and every style finds its place. Daniel spills the beans on his adventures performing comedy beyond the bright lights of London, recounting tales of rowdy hecklers and gigs that tested his mettle. Through it all, he emphasises the importance of staying flexible and gleaning wisdom from the tough gigs.From nerve-wracking moments to the sheer joy of a successful show, they unpack the rollercoaster ride of performing comedy. And as they wrap up, Daniel shares his standout memories from the stage, including some epic moments at Up the Creek and Beat the Blackout. Plus, he spills the beans on his dream walk-on music for Live at the Apollo and dishes out his favourite joke (hint: it involves the word 'slag').But the fun doesn't stop there! Marc throws down a challenge: Can Daniel brave using a joke from the infamous Little Book of Sh*t Jokes on stage? Stay tuned to find out! ————————Daniel Cohen Links:https://www.instagram.com/dcdoescomedy Open Mic Comedy Podcastwww: https://openmiccomedypod.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com

In this episode of the Open Mic Comedy Podcast, host Marc sits down with the hilarious and insightful comedian Tom Dell. They dive deep into Tom's comedic journey, exploring his beginnings in stand-up, the influences that shaped his style, and his most memorable moments on stage. Tom opens up about his creative process, sharing the intricacies of joke writing and the art of storytelling. He highlights the crucial elements of timing and word economy in crafting a perfect set.The discussion takes an intriguing turn as Marc and Tom dissect the nuances of performing different set lengths—five, seven, and ten minutes. They chat about the unique freedom and storytelling possibilities afforded by longer sets, as well as the challenges of maintaining audience engagement throughout. Tom also gives listeners a sneak peek into his future plans, including his aspirations to perform at the renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival.As they touch on the dynamics of open mic nights, Marc and Tom emphasise the importance of a diverse lineup to keep the comedy scene vibrant and inclusive. The episode wraps up on a high note with a playful challenge: Tom picks a random joke from a joke book and delivers it on stage, showcasing his spontaneous comedic flair.Join Marc and Tom for a delightful and insightful conversation that’s sure to entertain and enlighten comedy enthusiasts and aspiring comedians alike. ————————Tom Dell Links:https://www.instagram.com/tomdell98 Open Mic Comedy Podcastwww: https://openmiccomedypod.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmiccomedypod/———————— Music: https://www.purple-planet.com