In this hilarious and insightful episode, Russ and Lori sit down with comedians Kim Burns and Mina Hartong to talk about the grind of stand-up comedy, the art of writing jokes, the importance of stage presence, and the balance between creativity, careers, and family life.

From navigating late-night shows to teaching comedy and even writing for TV, Kim and Mina share how they’ve built careers in stand-up while inspiring the next generation of comics. Whether you’re a comedy fan, an aspiring comic, or just love unfiltered conversations, this episode is packed with laughs and wisdom.

⭐ Topics include:

• Life as a working comedian in New York and beyond

• Writing vs. performing: how comics develop their best material

• Overcoming stage fright and “bombing” with confidence

• Comedy communities that lift each other up

• Balancing careers, family, and creative pursuits

• Introduction & Late-Night Energy vs. Early Nights (00:00)

• Parenting, Proms, and the Comedy of Everyday Life (03:12)

• Juggling Comedy with Family and Career Commitments (06:18)

• Guest Introduction: Kim Burns Joins the Show (08:49)

• Hosting Comedy Shows & Keeping Material Fresh (10:50)

• The Writing Process: Finding Material Everywhere (12:46)

• Teaching Comedy & The Importance of Brevity (15:06)

• Comfort, Confidence, and Stage Presence (20:08)

• Kim Burns’ Journey: From Decorating to Stand-Up (21:09)

• Lessons from Tough Crowds & Awkward Gigs (24:36)

• Kim’s New TV Project “Relentless” (31:06)

• Guest Introduction: Mina Hartong Joins the Show (34:58)

• From Teaching to Comedy: Building a Community (36:22)

• Stage Time, Nerves, and the Power of Reps (41:05)

• Building a Supportive Comedy Network (46:53)

• Smart Humor, Audience Attention, and Control (49:37)

• Wrapping Up with Mina: The Comedy Community (50:34)

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to Unbridled and Unfiltered for more candid conversations with comedians, creators, and culture shapers.

🎧 Available on Spotify, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.

In this episode of Unbridled and Unfiltered, hosts Lori Rothman and Russ Flicker dive into the chaotic stock market, trade wars, and how financial uncertainty trickles into everyday life — with plenty of laughs along the way. Special guest comedian and social media influencer Rebecca Berman joins to share her journey from real estate to comedy, the art of handling hecklers, and the beauty of food-driven humor. This episode is packed with real-world lessons, honest advice, and hilarious stories for anyone looking to break into the world of stand-up comedy.---(01:00) – Financial Panic Hits HomeLori shares a funny story about explaining market chaos to her daughter.(02:00) – Laughing Through Financial CrisesComic relief as Lori and Russ discuss rich friends, jewelry shopping, and handling stock market whiplash.(04:00) – Russ’s Tariff Comedy SetRuss shares a standout joke about tariffs, Vietnam, and unexpected economics.(05:00) – Boba Tea, Gelatinous Balls, and Plastic JunkLori rants about unnecessary imports like boba tea and dangerous dog toys.(09:00) – Introducing Rebecca BermanComedian and influencer Rebecca Berman joins the conversation with her signature wit.(11:00) – Rebecca’s Comedy Origin StoryHow a monologue class with Jeffrey Tambor unexpectedly launched Rebecca’s stand-up career.(13:00) – Food, Comedy, and Social Media StardomRebecca explains how her passion for food and restaurants turned into a social media brand.(16:00) – First-Time Stand-Up ExperiencesRebecca recounts the nerves and lessons from her first-ever stand-up set.(18:00) – Managing Stage FrightThe group shares real strategies for calming pre-show nerves — from vodka to visualization.(22:00) – Handling Hecklers and Tough CrowdsRebecca talks about staying composed during crowd work and unexpected audience reactions.(28:00) – Knowing Your AudienceThe hosts discuss how audience demographics can affect a set — and how to adapt quickly.(30:00) – Final Thoughts + Closing LaughsTechnical glitches, sincere thank-yous, and a strong message for aspiring comedians.

On this episode, Russ and Lori step outside their comfort zones and talk about their Open Mic experience. They also chat about putting together a travel team for comedy and the art of creating relatable material for any audience. Plus, the dynamic comedy duo welcomes the Georgia Peach in the Big Apple, comedian Cyndy Cecil to discuss her journey into comedy, the importance of community, and the challenges of crafting material. They explore the dynamics of the comedy scene, the role of life experiences in shaping comedic voices, and the aspirations for future performances.

Chapters

(03:03) Experiencing Open Mic Comedy

(05:52) The Art of Stand-Up Comedy

(09:11) Family Ties and Comedy

(12:08) Navigating the Comedy Scene

(14:49) The Challenges of Relatable Comedy

(18:06) Humor in Current Events

(22:01) Introduction to Comedy and Networking

(24:43) Cyndy Cecil's Journey into Comedy

(27:39) Balancing Production and Performance

(30:22) Inspiration and Influences in Comedy

(33:28) Finding Your Voice and Life Experiences

(36:11) The Challenges of Aging and Comedy

(39:14) Conclusion and Future Endeavors

In this episode of Unbridled and Unfiltered, hosts Russ and Laurie explore the dynamics of friendships, personal growth, and the comedic journey of their guests, Ben Rosenfeld ⁠and ⁠Michelle Slonim⁠. On today's episode, we discuss the roles individuals play in friend groups, the importance of supportive relationships, and the challenges of balancing family life with a career in comedy. The conversation touches on personal experiences, emotional connections, and the humorous aspects of navigating life as a couple in the entertainment industry.

Chapters

(02:48) Roles in Friend Groups

(06:00) Spa Experiences and Personal Boundaries

(08:56) Supportive Relationships and Weekend Getaways

(12:08) Midlife Reflections and New Experiences

(14:56) Comedy and Emotional Connections

(18:00) Meet the Guests: Ben and Michelle

(20:50) The Comedy Journey as a Couple

(23:54) Navigating Family and Comedy

(27:01) The Dynamics of Being Married to a Comic

Summary

In this episode Russ and Lori discuss their journey into the world of comedy, sharing personal anecdotes and insights about the challenges and joys of stand-up. They explore the importance of relatability in humor, the dynamics of performing in front of different audiences, and the preparation that goes into crafting a successful set. The episode features guest Andrew Rich, who shares his experiences starting out in comedy and the nuances of connecting with diverse audiences.

Make sure to catch Andrew at his next comedy show. For the most up to date information, follow Andrew on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/andrew_rich_comedian

Chapters

00:53 The Journey into Comedy

02:48 Finding Humor in Life Experiences

06:11 The Backyard Comedy Shows

08:53 Inspiration and Relatability in Comedy

11:51 Introducing Andrew Rich

12:47 Andrew's Comedy Beginnings

14:51 The Challenges of Stand-Up Comedy

17:56 Adapting to Different Audiences

20:59 Family and Comedy

23:50 The Art of Preparation

27:02 Navigating Different Demographics

30:03 Closing Thoughts and Future Shows

Summary

In this episode of Unbridled and Entitled, hosts Russ Flicker and Lori Rothman discuss the complexities of family dynamics during the holiday season, the challenges of winter blues, and the impact of aging on relationships. They share humorous anecdotes about parenting teenagers, the importance of friendships in midlife, and the need for social activities to maintain a vibrant lifestyle. The conversation also touches on the future of family relationships and the care of aging parents.

Chapters

00:00 Holiday Plans and Family Dynamics

05:59 Looking Ahead: Future Family Interactions

06:15 Embracing Winter: A Seasonal Perspective

13:14 The Humor in Aging and Relationships

20:18 Navigating Parenthood and Friendships

Summary

In this lively conversation, hosts Russ and Lori discuss the recent election, the humor that arises from it, and the unexpected escape of monkeys from a lab. They delve into their experiences with comedy writing sessions, exploring vulnerability and creativity, and share their thoughts on Thanksgiving gatherings and family dynamics. The conversation is filled with laughter, insights, and reflections on the importance of humor in navigating life's challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Election Reflections and Humor

07:23 The Comedy of Everyday Life

15:33 Navigating Comedy and Vulnerability

18:23 Thanksgiving and Family Dynamics

24:52 Holiday Shopping and Family Connections

In this engaging conversation, hosts Lori Rothman and Russ Flicker explore the joys and challenges of the fall season, from sports excitement to Halloween costume dilemmas. They discuss the evolution of family gatherings during Thanksgiving, the importance of midlife hobbies, and the complexities of navigating family politics. The conversation also touches on the Menendez brothers' case and its societal implications, concluding with light-hearted reflections on concerts and future plans.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Fall: Embracing the Season

02:55 Sports Frenzy: The Excitement of Fall

06:00 Halloween Evolution: Costumes and Parental Guidance

09:13 Midlife Hobbies: Finding Joy in New Activities

12:08 Thanksgiving Challenges: Hosting and Dietary Restrictions

14:52 Navigating Family Politics: Keeping the Peace

17:46 Reflections on Parenting: The Changing Dynamics

21:14 The Menendez Brothers: A Case Revisited

24:02 Closing Thoughts: Concerts and Future Plans

On this episode of Unbridled and Entitled, hosts Russ Flicker and Lori Rothman discuss their perspectives on art, their experiences with art, and the dynamics of art appreciation. They also connect with an art expert, Lauren Bender, to gain insights into the world of art. The conversation covers topics such as personal art preferences, art shopping, gallery experiences, and the challenges of art appreciation.

Find out more about Lauren and her business here: https://www.laurenlbenderfineart.com/

Takeaways

Art appreciation is subjective and can vary widely from person to person.

The process of art shopping and gallery experiences can be both enjoyable and challenging.

Understanding the dynamics of art and gaining insights from art experts can enhance one's appreciation for art.

Personal experiences and preferences play a significant role in shaping one's relationship with art.

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Reintroduction

02:04

Exploring Personal Perspectives on Art

05:34

Challenges of Art Appreciation and Gallery Experiences

10:23

Art Shopping and the Dynamics of Art Purchase

13:03

Interview with Lauren Bender

Are you someone with a gapping hole in our heart and soul that only a pet can fill? Has your furry friend taken ownership of your marital bed? Are you the kind of person that waits until AFTER you've signed adoption papers to add another four-legged member to your family to tell you husband or wife?

If any of these apply to you, then you're going to love today's episode of the Unbridled and Entitled Podcast with Russ and Lori. On today's show, our hosts talk about their relationships with their dogs and how those bounds have affected their lives and their families for the better.

Russ and Lori also talk Billy Joel, Tik Tok and you don't want to miss our faithful co-host break down what a "Thirsty Hampster" is!

So do yourself a favor, grab your favorite furry friend and tune in to today's episode.