School Of Laughs

We did it. You did it. I did it. It was done. What is IT? 100 episodes! Woo hoo! This episode of the School Of Laughs podcast is brought to you by Chelle Baxter, Peter Margaritas, Sandi Joy Chadwick and John Charlton - thanks!

It is crazy to think that a couple of years ago we started this journey together. When we did, I had no idea that we would make it to 100 episodes of the School Of Laughs podcast. I hoped to. Just didn't know if it was going to be something I could pull off. What a ride! With help from Gavin Miller, the ball got rolling and rolling and ...

I've learned a lot! Hopefully you have as well. We've listened to jokes go from the brainstorming phase to the stage. We've talked with Letterman comics like Jeff Caldwell, Keith Alberstadt and Andy Hendrickson. We heard from Tonight Show regular Nate Bargatze and his dad Stephen.

Comedy Central comedians Robert Mac, Luis Ramey and Pat McGann also shared insights. Seasoned veterans Jeff Jena, Jeff Allen and Dan Swartout also shared many golden nuggets of information about becoming a comedian.

We also heard from folks who write for TV like Martha Bolton and Scott Dunn. We learned booking tips from Tim Grable and Midwest Clean Comedy. We know now what it takes to record a CD, and a DVD as well as how to put on your own shows.

Former students (Monty Mitchell, Jonnie W., Brian Bates, Chris Cherry, Mike James, and Paulina Combow) stopped by to share their successes.

WOW.

So where do we go from here?

The plan is to continue for the next three months and see if there is enough interest and support through PATREON (see below) to continue. If so, we will lock in for another full year. If not, we will ride on into the sunset and sleep well knowing we gave it our all.

On today's episode, I reflect back on the past year and what lies ahead. Specifically, I talk about:

• The Broken record Comedy Show with Chad Riden
• Listener feedback emails from YOU the listener
• What it takes to put together a podcast
• My favorite episodes from the first 100
• We check in with Gavin Miller

And a lot more.

Thank you so much for listening and I hope to continue to provide you with beneficial information and tactical strategies for becoming BIGGER, BETTER and MORE BOOKABLE!

A listener recently told me about Patreon and I totally love this concept.

In a nutshell, in exchange for a small RECURRING monthly donation of your choice, you gain access to many extra opportunities to interact with the show. My favorite bonus is our very own, private "School Of Laughs Patreon News Feed". Think of it as a Facebook page without all the drama. In this feed I will post exclusive articles, bonus podcasts and more. And of course, you will be invited to share ideas and support other listeners of the show!

The funds would help offset the costs associated with time incurred producing the show, and at the same time give you more of what I believe you find valuable. It's up to you as far as the amount. We average 4 episodes a month and are hoping you feel like the information is worth at least $1.25 a show. So, a monthly pledge of $5 is our hope. More is great, less is still helpful. If we reach the target of 200 patrons (which is just a fraction of the overall listener downloads per episode), I think we would be on track to continue the production of the show and creating opportunities for you to grow as a performer and see definite returns on your support.

In short, I want to continue to provide the podcast and reach out to bigger names, more helpful comics and incredible resources.

Please VISIT www.SchoolOfLaughs.com/Patreon or www.Patron.com/SchoolOfLaughs to find out more.

We did it. You did it. I did it. It was done. What is IT? 100 episodes! Woo hoo! This episode of the School Of Laughs podcast is brought to you by Chelle Baxter, Peter Margaritas, Sandi Joy Chadwick and John Charlton - thanks!

It is crazy to think that a couple of years ago we started this journey together. When we did, I had no idea that we would make it to 100 episodes of the School Of Laughs podcast. I hoped to. Just didn't know if it was going to be something I could pull off. What a ride! With help from Gavin Miller, the ball got rolling and rolling and ...

I've learned a lot! Hopefully you have as well. We've listened to jokes go from the brainstorming phase to the stage. We've talked with Letterman comics like Jeff Caldwell, Keith Alberstadt and Andy Hendrickson. We heard from Tonight Show regular Nate Bargatze and his dad Stephen.

Comedy Central comedians Robert Mac, Luis Ramey and Pat McGann also shared insights. Seasoned veterans Jeff Jena, Jeff Allen and Dan Swartout also shared many golden nuggets of information about becoming a comedian.

We also heard from folks who write for TV like Martha Bolton and Scott Dunn. We learned booking tips from Tim Grable and Midwest Clean Comedy. We know now what it takes to record a CD, and a DVD as well as how to put on your own shows.

Former students (Monty Mitchell, Jonnie W., Brian Bates, Chris Cherry, Mike James, and Paulina Combow) stopped by to share their successes.

WOW.

So where do we go from here?

The plan is to continue for the next three months and see if there is enough interest and support through PATREON (see below) to continue. If so, we will lock in for another full year. If not, we will ride on into the sunset and sleep well knowing we gave it our all.

On today's episode, I reflect back on the past year and what lies ahead. Specifically, I talk about:

• The Broken record Comedy Show with Chad Riden
• Listener feedback emails from YOU the listener
• What it takes to put together a podcast
• My favorite episodes from the first 100
• We check in with Gavin Miller

And a lot more.

Thank you so much for listening and I hope to continue to provide you with beneficial information and tactical strategies for becoming BIGGER, BETTER and MORE BOOKABLE!

A listener recently told me about Patreon and I totally love this concept.

In a nutshell, in exchange for a small RECURRING monthly donation of your choice, you gain access to many extra opportunities to interact with the show. My favorite bonus is our very own, private “School Of Laughs Patreon News Feed”. Think of it as a Facebook page without all the drama. In this feed I will post exclusive articles, bonus podcasts and more. And of course, you will be invited to share ideas and support other listeners of the show!

The funds would help offset the costs associated with time incurred producing the show, and at the same time give you more of what I believe you find valuable. It’s up to you as far as the amount. We average 4 episodes a month and are hoping you feel like the information is worth at least $1.25 a show. So, a monthly pledge of $5 is our hope. More is great, less is still helpful. If we reach the target of 200 patrons (which is just a fraction of the overall listener downloads per episode), I think we would be on track to continue the production of the show and creating opportunities for you to grow as a performer and see definite returns on your support.

In short, I want to continue to provide the podcast and reach out to bigger names, more helpful comics and incredible resources.

Please VISIT www.SchoolOfLaughs.com/Patreon or www.Patron.com/SchoolOfLaughs   to find out more.

At age 14, Derrick Tennant, was pursuing his dream for acareer in sports when one evening in 1985 he laid down and didnot wake up for three days.

He had undergone whatdoctors would later term "random bleeding from point 'x' for anunknown reason". Paralyzed and in a coma, Derrick underwentbrain surgery from which he became unable to move the left side ofhis body. It would take years of therapy to re-learn the basicslike walking, talking and simple daily tasks. Derrick is stillunable to use his left arm and he walks with a limp, but he haslearned a lot through this process.

• We cover a lot in this interview, including ...
• When and why he moved to Atlanta
• Having a headache that turned into a coma and then brainsurgery
• Being 14 and in a wheelchair
• Dealing with "looks, discrimination, strange treatment" aftercoma
• Riding an "invalid coach" and then playing for one in thePhilippines
• How humor has helped him get through the tough times
• Hosting talent shows in college
• Running the REV'D UpComedy Jam
• Developing new comedians
• Derrick's sister JULIE who is also insipiring
• Creating a two new DVD's before end of the year

and much, much more!

This podcast is a production of The Rik Roberts School OfLaughs. Visit SchoolOfLaughs.com for more information.

At age 14, Derrick Tennant, was pursuing his dream for acareer in sports when one evening in 1985 he laid down and didnot wake up for three days.

He had undergone whatdoctors would later term “random bleeding from point ‘x’ for anunknown reason”.  Paralyzed and in a coma, Derrick underwentbrain surgery from which he became unable to move the left side ofhis body. It would take years of therapy to re-learn the basicslike walking, talking and simple daily tasks. Derrick is stillunable to use his left arm and he walks with a limp, but he haslearned a lot through this process.

• We cover a lot in this interview, including ...
• When and why he moved to Atlanta
• Having a headache that turned into a coma and then brainsurgery
• Being 14 and in a wheelchair
• Dealing with "looks, discrimination, strange treatment" aftercoma
• Riding an "invalid coach" and then playing for one in thePhilippines
• How humor has helped him get through the tough times
• Hosting talent shows in college
• Running the REV'D UpComedy Jam
• Developing new comedians
• Derrick's sister JULIE who is also insipiring
• Creating a two new DVD's before end of the year

and much, much more!

This podcast is a production of The Rik Roberts School OfLaughs. Visit SchoolOfLaughs.com for more information.

Bill Foley is a walking miracle. I don't know how else to put it.

Earlier this year on February 11, 6 p.m. 30-year-old Mohamed Barry came into the Nazareth Restaurant in Columbus, OH while Bill was preparing to perform. Barry started swinging a machete and quickly had injured a couple seated near the door. Bill Foley sacrificed his body as he barreled into the attacker in hopes the others there could escape.

Bill was stabbed and suffered a punctured lung and liver. He also sustained stab wounds in his hand. His guitar strumming, finger-picking hand. Just the fact that I am able to interview Bill and share his story with you is a blessing.

We talk about the attack, but also get some perspective on Bill Foley's early days as a musician and the gigs he played leading up to it.

Specifically, we talk about:

• Bill's aspirations as a drummer changing with one opportunity
• His love for early rock and roll
• How Mark Cordes helped him with his catch phrase
• Meeting and hanging out with Paul Reubens BEFORE he was Pee Wee Herman
• His definition of real country music and playing at the Blue Bird Cafe
• His days at Fort Hayes Career Center and how it shaped his life
• Looking in the Yellow Pages and calling a booking agent out of the blue
• His love and hobby as a Civil War Re-Enactor (ForTheLoveOFHistory.com)
• Playing a 2-4 hour show with no set list
• Keeping his voice in good shape when you are not feeling well
• Tips on traveling with gear and with a full band
• Recounting the night of his attack at the Nazareth Restaurant and Deli
• Bill Foley's love for James Taylor and how he's going to meet up with him again

and much, much more.

You can help Bill with some of his medical bills by donating through his GoFundMe campaign

Check out his web site: http://www.omgilts.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billfoleyband

In this episode, I also answer a question from listener Robert Talbott. Robert wants to know:

What is my favorite bit that I have ever written?

What is my favorite bit that someone else has written or performed?

And I mentioned the Patreon "Laugh Partner Reward" Program as well. Here is a link to learn more: www.Patreon.com/schooloflaughs

The School Of Laughs podcast is a production of SchoolOfLaughs.com

Bill Foley is a walking miracle. I don't know how else to put

Earlier this year on February 11, 6 p.m. 30-year-old

Bill was stabbed and suffered a punctured lung and liver. He

We talk about the attack, but also get some perspective on Bill

Specifically, we talk about:

and much, much more.

You can help Bill with some of his medical bills by donating

Check out his web site: http://www.omgilts.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billfoleyband

In this episode, I also answer a question from listener Robert

What is my favorite bit that I have ever written?

What is my favorite bit that someone else has written

And I mentioned the Patreon

The School Of Laughs podcast is a production of

Christian comedian Mike Hickman joins me on the show today to discuss his comedy journey. Mike is a versatile performer who can entertain at a retirement home one day and a youth group the next. HIs comedy goes beyond just the stage. As an ambassador for Compassion International, he uses his platform to help children in need.

Mike has been in ministry for over 20 years in various forms as a former youth pastor, worship leader, touring Christian musician and of course now traveling the nation as a Christian comedian and speaker and is an active part of the Christian Comedy Association (CCA).

Mike is also the co-host of the WhatNow Christian Radio Show streaming worldwide. Mike has been on ABC, HBO and performed & spoken in churches, theaters, conferences & events all over the US for over 2 decades.

We cover a wide variety of topics today, including …

• Gigging in West Texas
• Performing shows for his parents when he was a little fella
• The Austin comedy scene
• His writing process
• Digging into his adoption story to find some laughs
• The debut of his new podcast Laugh Track Comedy Cast

And a whole lot more!

==

Check out Mike Hickman at any of the following links:

WEBSITE: http://mikehickmancomedy.com

https://www.facebook.com/mikehickmancomedy/

My episode of his podcast via iTunes: http://apple.co/1VE0URI

===

You can contact us anytime for more information at [email protected].

Guest Blog PostsIf you are blogging about your comedy journey or have written articles about your experience we’d love to share them. Send a link to the post and any other info you would like us to know and I’ll consider posting it and promoting from our site.

School Of Laughs

Email: [email protected] and put “insider tip sheet” in the subject header. I’ll make sure you get the official tip sheet and I promise to keep your email anonymous and spam free.

@SCHOOLOFLAUGHS on Twitter

Christian comedian Mike Hickman joins me on the show today to discuss his comedy journey. Mike is a versatile performer who can entertain at a retirement home one day and a youth group the next. HIs comedy goes beyond just the stage. As an ambassador for Compassion International, he uses his platform to help children in need.

Mike has been in ministry for over 20 years in various forms as a former youth pastor, worship leader, touring Christian musician and of course now traveling the nation as a Christian comedian and speaker and is an active part of the Christian Comedy Association (CCA).

Mike is also the co-host of the WhatNow Christian Radio Show streaming worldwide. Mike has been on ABC, HBO and performed & spoken in churches, theaters, conferences & events all over the US for over 2 decades.

We cover a wide variety of topics today, including …

And a whole lot more!

==

Check out Mike Hickman at any of the following links:

WEBSITE: http://mikehickmancomedy.com

https://www.facebook.com/mikehickmancomedy/

  My episode of his podcast via iTunes: http://apple.co/1VE0URI

===

You can contact us anytime for more information at [email protected].

Guest Blog Posts
If you are blogging about your comedy journey or have written articles about your experience we’d love to share them. Send a link to the post and any other info you would like us to know and I’ll consider posting it and promoting from our site.

School Of Laughs

Email: [email protected] and put “insider tip sheet” in the subject header. I’ll make sure you get the official tip sheet and I promise to keep your email anonymous and spam free.

@SCHOOLOFLAUGHS on Twitter

Jeffrey Jena started comedy in ... 1978! Were you even born? Ha. I was just 10 years old eating fruit loops in my jammies when Jeffrey Jena first hit the stage. Thirteen years later I worked with him for the first time. And now, some 18 years later, we catch up. Jeffrey is still performing at a high level. Today he reflects back on his run and some the things he's learned. In the hey-day of comedy he appeared on over 40, yes 40 - tv shows. So there are many lessons indeed.

We talk about:

• When you have to put your foot down with bookers
• A story about staying in a garage with Daniel Tosh
• How he approaches teaching comedy
• Why desire and drive trump talent nearly every time
• How Steve Prefontaine and great comedians are alike
• A quote by George Burns that you will flat out love
• Frustration with other comedians having similar bits
• Why his 5 year stint as a house emcee was a great experience even 20 years in to the business
• How he takes time off to enjoy being a father
• The dangers of alcohol and drugs
• How golf and comedy is alike
• His biggest pet peeve in comedy
• Intros and Bios and how people get them mixed up
• Performing at a "going away party" for a terminally ill person - by mistake
• And the importance of leaving early enough when headed to a gig

And much, much more!

Jeff provides a number of tips and you owe it to yourself to listen in to almost 40 years of comedy experience.

At a time when a lot of guys his age are winding down their careers Jeff's is finding its second wind. Over the last ten years he has established himself as one of the top corporate and cruise entertainers in the country. "My audience," Jeff says, "has moved from smokey clubs to sleek cruise ships and private events, I just followed them."

They have responded! At recent events he has received high praise and standing ovations for his blend of one liners, storytelling and touching personal tales. His act is focused on family and coming to fatherhood later in life.

Find out more about Jeffrey Jena at ... http://jeffreyjena.com

Or check him out on Facebook ... https://www.facebook.com/jeffrey.jena

==

Rik Roberts

Stand-Up Comedy Classes

Starting off in stand-up comedy can be REALLY intimidating. It’s like driving in the fog with no lights. That is the way I felt when I first started. There was no way to see what was ahead, how long it would take to get there, or which way I should be going.

After 24 years as a full time, professional comedian, I can now easily see the path. The fog has long lifted. The obstacles – some great challenges – are less intimidating. The journey is much more clear.

You’ll have to learn a lot on your own. No one can do this for you. But, the journey doesn’t have to be so intimidating. It all comes down to three areas: Writing, Performing and Business. And it all starts with WRITING.

The School Of Laughs online writing course contains all the tools I wish I had when I first started. You will immediately start to see stand-up comedy in a new light.

There are many techniques comedians use in their writing. You will learn them. You will practice them. You will layer them and you will get laughs.

Click here to learn more about the various levels of the online class and see which is the best fit for you.

You can contact us anytime for more information at [email protected].

Guest Blog PostsIf you are blogging about your comedy journey or have written articles about your experience we’d love to share them. Send a link to the post and any other info you would like us to know and I’ll consider posting it and promoting from our site.

Sponsor An EpisodeDo you have something you’ like to promote? A new CD, big show, or your very own podcast? Contact us for sponsorship options. You can promote on one or multiple episodes.

Fix a JokeWe want to help as many comics as possible. If you have a short joke (100 words or less) that you would like some feedback on please send it in! You can email the joke written out or send us an audio clip, or even a link to a YouTube video. We will get it on the show and get feedback for you, give out your web site and / or twitter handle to help you get your name out there. Our show is PG so please take that into consideration when selecting a joke.

Better yet, subscribe to the bi-monthly School of Laughs “Insider Tips” email and get exclusive information delivered right to your inbox. It’s fast, free useful and fun.

School Of Laughs

Email: [email protected] and put “insider tip sheet” in the subject header. I’ll make sure you get the official tip sheet and I promise to keep your email anonymous and spam free.

@SCHOOLOFLAUGHS on Twitter

Jeffrey Jena started comedy in ... 1978! Were you even born? Ha. I was just 10 years old eating fruit loops in my jammies when Jeffrey Jena first hit the stage. Thirteen years later I worked with him for the first time.  And now, some 18 years later, we catch up. Jeffrey is still performing at a high level. Today he reflects back on his run and some the things he's learned. In the hey-day of comedy he appeared on over 40, yes 40 - tv shows. So there are many lessons indeed.

We talk about:

And much, much more!

Jeff provides a number of tips and you owe it to yourself to listen in to almost 40 years of comedy experience.

At a time when a lot of guys his age are winding down their careers Jeff's is finding its second wind. Over the last ten years he has established himself as one of the top corporate and cruise entertainers in the country. "My audience," Jeff says, "has moved from smokey clubs to sleek cruise ships and private events, I just followed them."

They have responded! At recent events he has received high praise and standing ovations for his blend of one liners, storytelling and touching personal tales. His act is focused on family and coming to fatherhood later in life.

Find out more about Jeffrey Jena at ... http://jeffreyjena.com

Or check him out on Facebook ... https://www.facebook.com/jeffrey.jena

==

Rik Roberts

Stand-Up Comedy Classes

Starting off in stand-up comedy can be REALLY intimidating. It’s like driving in the fog with no lights. That is the way I felt when I first started. There was no way to see what was ahead, how long it would take to get there, or which way I should be going.

After 24 years as a full time, professional comedian, I can now easily see the path. The fog has long lifted. The obstacles – some great challenges – are less intimidating. The journey is much more clear.

You’ll have to learn a lot on your own. No one can do this for you. But, the journey doesn’t have to be so intimidating. It all comes down to three areas: Writing, Performing and Business. And it all starts with WRITING.

The School Of Laughs online writing course contains all the tools I wish I had when I first started. You will immediately start to see stand-up comedy in a new light.

There are many techniques comedians use in their writing. You will learn them. You will practice them. You will layer them and you will get laughs.

Click here to learn more about the various levels of the online class and see which is the best fit for you.

You can contact us anytime for more information at [email protected].

Guest Blog Posts
If you are blogging about your comedy journey or have written articles about your experience we’d love to share them. Send a link to the post and any other info you would like us to know and I’ll consider posting it and promoting from our site.

Sponsor An Episode
Do you have something you’ like to promote? A new CD, big show, or your very own podcast? Contact us for sponsorship options. You can promote on one or multiple episodes.

Fix a Joke
We want to help as many comics as possible. If you have a short joke (100 words or less) that you would like some feedback on please send it in! You can email the joke written out or send us an audio clip, or even a link to a YouTube video. We will get it on the show and get feedback for you, give out your web site and / or twitter handle to help you get your name out there. Our show is PG so please take that into consideration when selecting a joke.

Better yet, subscribe to the bi-monthly School of Laughs “Insider Tips” email and get exclusive information delivered right to your inbox. It’s fast, free useful and fun.

School Of Laughs

Email: [email protected] and put “insider tip sheet” in the subject header. I’ll make sure you get the official tip sheet and I promise to keep your email anonymous and spam free.

@SCHOOLOFLAUGHS on Twitter