A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy

Hannah Roeschlein pulls no punches on stage or off, a fact which has spurred the Indiana native to new heights across the country. She's also got a lot on her mind – and her return to A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy is the place where you can find out all she has to say! In just seven years of comedy, Hannah has achieved quite a bit: Her debut album, Asian American Psycho, was released  in 2023, she's a regular at The Stand in New York City and The Laugh Factory in her current home of Chicago ... And she was the cover subject of Pattern magazine's March 2022 issue. She's also working on her acting chops, the short film It Happened One Weekend – a tale about two friends explore the boundaries of their relationship after both getting dumped – finding her playing the role of Abby. On this episode of A Tight 45, Hannah chats with Tabari on a number of subjects, including sports, racism, being uncensored, maturity on and off stage ... And why you can slide in her DMs anytime you want as long as you're prepared to be disappointed.  Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

There are three things you should know about Mia Jackson: (1) She's a funny (2) She's tall ... and now, (3) She's a two-time guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!A New Face by the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival  and Atlanta's Creative Loafing's Critic's Choice Best Stand-Up in the city in 2017, Jackson has toured nationally with Amy Schumer and is a featured comic at festivals and clubs across the country. Her first stand up special aired in October 2018 as part of Unprotected Sets on EPIX (Now MGM+).  Additionally, she has appeared on "NickMom's Night Out," Viceland, "Comedy Central's This Week at the Comedy Cellar" and was even a semi-finalist on season nine of NBC's "Last Comic Standing." You may have also seen her starring in her own Comedy Central Half-Hour in 2019. On this episode of A Tight 45, Mia chats with Tabari on a number of subjects, including Atlanta sports, OutKast, their mutual love of sneakers and so much more! Why are you still reading – go listen to the episode!!!  Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Cy Amundson is a very funny native of Minnesota with a litany of achievements to his credit. This includes appearances on CONAN, Comedy Central's This is Not Happening and Adam Devine's House Party  as well Family Guy and American Dad!, all of which cemented his work on stage as a top stand-up comedian with appearances on The Bob & Tom Show and the former Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal. Away from the stage, he's also overcome a  lot in recent years, which is inspiring his comeback to the stage in very personal and honest ways. But on this episode of A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy, the only thing happening is pure hilarious insanity from start to finish!On this episode of A Tight 45, Cy flips the tables on Tabari, taking the role of interviewer, throwing jabs and zingers faster than his host can think of a response. This leads to covering a lot of subjects including their height difference, the weather in Amundson's native Minnesota and - oh, just listen to the episode and find out for yourself!  Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

 Luke Capasso is a renaissance man. Funny on stage, he has been seen on  MTV, heard  on  BBC Radio,  Provided Content and Performed for Channel 5's Furious and Funny as well as a few failed TV pilots for Dave and ITV. Off stage, he is a very skilled craftsman whose work with hands should have landed him a PBS or HGTV show by now.But while he waits for things to happen, he'll just have to settle for being the  latest guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!A self-fancied absurdist who got into comedy in a very unexpected way, Luke joins this episode of A Tight 45 to chat with Tabari talks with Robert about military life, comedy, the seemingly lost art of working with one's hands and dollhouses. Yes ... Dollhouses. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Robert Jenkins not only passed the bar as a comedian, he actually also passed the bar as a lawyer. Now, he combines both talents to leave his clients happy and audiences in stitches.   And now, he's the latest guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!Beginning his comedy career in 2012, Robert has quickly established himself as a comedic force throughout the Midwest, appearing on the Fox television show Laughs as as well as several festivals including Gilda's Laughfest's "Best of the Midwest Competition" and the Bridgetown Comedy Festival in Portland, Oregon. On this episode of A Tight 45, Tabari talks with Robert about Ohio and Michigan's football rivalry, the duality of holding down a very regulated day job while pursuing wild comedy dreams at night, the benefits of therapy ... And the insanity of watching criminals snitch on themselves on television shows. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Rachel Gallager knows two things: Comedy and talent. Now that she's part of the Avail Comedy team, she's combining her two loves into a career while helping her clients laugh all the way to the ... Well, why not let her tell you on the latest episode of A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!A lifelong fan of stand-up comedy who got hooked on live performance when her womb-mate first got on stage at 18, Rachel started working in the corporate world in project management, working and living in London, Munich, Melbourne and Singapore before going back to her first love: Comedy. That led to her settling in Los Angeles in 2018, before producing podcasts. The pandemic saw her start running the "Nowhere Comedy Club," the first virtual club to bring live stand-up to your living room. She also produced and co-hosted a virtual show that raised almost $100K for comedians that were out of work.In 2020 she transitioned into talent management, now alongside Jessica and Tasha. Her primary focus are comedic actors, writers, and performers. Her clients are on Netflix, Comedy Central, Hulu, Adult Swim, Hartbeat, and can be heard on Sirius/XM.On this episode of A Tight 45, Tabari talks with Rachel about the business side of comedy, detailing everything from the differences between agents and managers as well as all the various trends that should (and shouldn't) continue in 2024 and beyond ... And clowns. Yes ... Clowns. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

In 2019, Kyle Grooms was just cruising along, doing his thing. Then, he endured a challenging health setback leading to emergency brain surgery, leaving the comedian to do the only thing he could: Turn it into comedy.Now, the veteran stand-up is simply enjoying his time on and off stage every day by finding the humor in life and joy in simply being alive.A native of New Jersey now living in Florida, Grooms is a veteran familiar to fans of stand-up with a resume filled with esteemed credits. This inlcude his half-hour special on Comedy Central as well as notable appearances on "Chappelle's Show," VH1, NBC, "Showtime at the Apollo," BET,  CBS, HBO ... and a standout role in the Amy Schumer-led film "I Feel Pretty."  He also turned his medical experience into a comedy special,  "Kyle Grooms: Brain Humor" in 2020.On this episode of A Tight 45, Tabari talks with Kyle about his outlook on life post-brain surgery, the joys of parenting, going vegan ... And gets some insight into the former "Straight Plan for the Gay Man" cast member's dream acting role. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

She's no Southern belle ... She's just very, very talented. "She" is Allison Summers – and she's the next guest on this episode of A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!An actress and filmmaker who can be seen in both commercials and performing in sketches and with improv groups, Allison Summers is also an accomplished stand-up comedian. Earning her  BFA from University of Maryland, she studied at The Second City in Chicago, the Upright Citizens Brigade and The Annoyance Theater.  A person who values her sobriety, she has also taught improv and stand-up to people in recovery and women in prison. She's even got several entries on her IMDb page!On this episode of A Tight 45, Tabari talks with Allison about the similarities and differences between stand-up and sketch,  how people seem to be getting married earlier and earlier as well as why there are few things funnier than people tripping and falling. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Lee Michael Kimbrell traded in classrooms for comedy clubs ... And he's been teaching people to laugh along ever since.A humble Southern gentleman who likes to make every show a chill party full of good times and great vibes, Lexington, KY native Lee Kimbrell is making waves - and plenty of fans - nationwide. Often seen performing in comedy clubs and theaters nationwide as a regular opener for fellow comic Theo Von, Kimbrell is poised for big things in 2024 and beyond as he gains more and more followers.   His debut special, "Mike & Molly," is available on YouTube now and is on Tubi, which you can find in between all the low budget 'hood movies,  old episodes of "The Bachelorette" and kids' programming  – "The Son of Bigfoot," anyone? - you didn't even know existed.  On this episode of A Tight 45, Tabari and Lee discuss everything from their shared days working in America's classrooms to working with Theo Von and the key to a great relationship - and more! This episode was also recorded at the new Go Bananas Comedy Club podcast studio ... Although Tabari had to use his own mic since the finishing touches were still being put in place at the time! New episodes of A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy, sponsored by Everybody's Records, release Thursdays at 9 a.m. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

So ... Did you miss me???There's been a sabbatical in between episodes ... But after 13 months, A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy is back – and Emmy Award-winning sports journalist Elise Jesse is the guest!   A Tight 45 specializes in chatting with people who have interesting careers/hobbies/habits/insight into this thing we call life ... And Jesse has all four.  As noted on her page on SI.com, Jesse has been covering the NFL with an emphasis on the Cincinnati Bengals and AFC North since 2013 – her feature storytelling has earned her an Ohio Valley Emmy Award in broadcast journalism. In addition, the former TV reporter is an  avid college basketball watcher, a mother of two and is the wife of Mike Rehfeldt, the Associate Athletic Director for Sports Performance at the University of Cincinnati.  On this episode of A Tight 45, Tabari dives into Jesse's career and finds out how the near 6-foot tall sports junkie got her start in journalism, the wonders of working in Montana and discusses her non-sports specialty (cooking) among other subjects. And this was before Tabari himself turned on his oven to do something more than make bacon and she became obsessed with sourdough bread!Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

She's got credits a mile (OK, at least a quarter-mile long, but you get the point!) long, is recognized as one of the top artists in her field ... Not to mention an actress, record label owner, wife and teacher to boot."She" is DJ Shortee ... And now, she's the next guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!Dubbed “Queen of the Scratch World” by DJ Times, DJ Shortee is recognized as one of the most diverse and technically skilled female DJs in the world. Rolling Stone distinguishes her among the “fader-flipping elite,” which helps explain why she is the only female DJ featured in the critically-acclaimed documentary Scratch. Starting her career in the 1990s, she can spin  everything from Drum and Bass, Glitch Hop, Moombahton, Trap, House, Dubstep, Drumstep, Techno, Breaks, Rock, Funk, Hip Hop, Top40 and the catch-all known as ‘Open-Format'.Her fast-paced mixing style, expert scratching skills and energetic stage presence has made her one of the most in demand DJs touring in North America, South America, Central America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. She was also the first female Fever-Buzz Battle of the DJs Champion in 1997 and the first female PowerMixer ever to rock the airwaves of LA's #1 Hip Hop Station, Power 106 FM, circa 2006. She's also shared the stage alongside world class artists such as KRS One, Method Man and The Roots among others.Her full-length solo debut “The Dreamer” became the first turntablist album ever produced by a female in 1999. At the same time, her track “Shortee's Return” became the only track produced by a female turntablist on Bomb Record's critically acclaimed, “Return of the DJ” series, with her tune appearing on Volume 3 of the compilation.Alongside her husband DJ Faust, they produce and perform under the name “Urban Assault." In 2006, the duo launched their record label Heavy Artillery Recordings, specializing in energetic electronic ‘bass music' such as Drum & Bass, Dubstep, Drumstep, Glitch Hop, Trap and Electro House.Their influential Heavy Artillery Recordings imprint, which has licensed music to blockbuster films such as Elysium with Matt Damon & Jodi Foster, has made such a lasting mark on the global electronic music scene that it has won Symphonic Distribution's Awards for‘Hardest Working Label' and ‘Label of the Year'.She is also a published author, with her book Spin Now! The DJ Starter Handbook (Hal Leonard Publishing), a favorite among aspiring DJs worlwide.As as actress under her birth name of Shannon Ames, she has portrayed various fictional characters in Films, Televisions, Web Series and live Theatre productions. This includes her recognition for “Outstanding Acting Performance” Award at the ZedFest Film Festival for her performance in the role of “Marnie” in the suspense thriller The Long Way Home .On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022), DJ Shortee and Tabari talk about the art of turntablism, overcoming stereotypes, why DJs can get some of the ladies more often than not ... And who was the dream artist she got to perform with on a certain late night host's former talk show. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

He's an award-winning comedian, accomplished musician, playwright and director. "He" is Billy D. Washington (no, NOT that one), the next guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!Once described by The Denver Post  as possessing “Low-key intensity and dead on humor,” Billy has been a steady presence in the world of stand-up comedy since 1991.His long litany of credits include performances at the prestigious 'Just for Laughs' Comedy Festival, Def Comedy Jam, The Bob & Tom Show, Last Comic Standing, Comedy Central and The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson just to name a few. His humor and musical ability has led to him working with many entertainers, including spending 3 years traveling as "The Queen of Soul" Aretha Franklin as her opening act.  ​He has also written and directed 14 plays, 2 award winning short films and in 2020 he created “Tales of the Virus”, an urban story about a pandemic driven zombie apocalypse podcast. Most recently, Billy wrote and produced the satirical romp, Trump Is Gone, a political anthem that has generated over 5 million views worldwide. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022), Billy and Tabari talk about their mutual love of baseball, the former's upbringing and its influence on his comedy,  cruise ships, labels, working as a police officer before going into comedy ... And a VERY (in)famous person to whom Mr. Washington is related! Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

This is a big week for your host Tabari McCoy as he prepares to headline a benefit show for the Cincinnati Police Department's Real Men Wear Pink organization benefitting the American Cancer Society ... And then headlines the club where it all started, Go Bananas, for the first time all weekend as he records his third album and first streaming special. So where does Shanda Sung come into play in all this? She's going to be the feature act this weekend – and she's the next guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!  Based out of Bloomington, Ind., Shanda is an accomplished stand-up comic, headlining and featuring at clubs throughout the Midwest, all while balancing life as a wife and mother to three young children (two boys and a girl). She has also performed at the revered Limestone Comedy Festival in her native Bloomington and is the co-host of "Passing Notes" podcast with her childhood friend Amanda that finds them discussing a topic they've researched, often to hilariously insightful results. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022), Shanda chats with Tabari about balancing  mom/wife life with being a working stand-up comic,  planning for the future ... And even the time when she and Tabari first met that he completely forgot about!  Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

On the field, Reggie Williams was an ever-present force of nature, proudly wearing no. 57 for 14 seasons as a member of Tabari's hometown Cincinnati Bengals.  And now, the renaissance man that is the former NFL player/politician/businessman/author is the featured guest on the 80th episode of A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!A native of Flint, MI, Williams was the Bengals third-round draft pick in 1976 out of Darmouth University, the same college where he was awarded an academic scholarship. Eventually graduating with his degree in an A.B. in psychology (after also winning an Ivy League wrestling championship), he would become a force on the gridiron for the Bengals,  where he would play in both Super Bowl XVI (1981) – he led the Bengals defense with a team-high 11 sacks and second most tackles with 106 – and XXIII (1988) .Football wouldn't be the only place Williams would make his mark, however, as he would go on to be appointed to and win re-election of a seat on Cincinnati City Council in the late 1980s. This is in addition to the two year span that saw him win the Byron "Whizzer" White Award for Humanitarian Service (1985), NFL Man of the Year (1986) and Sports Illustrated's Co-Sportsmen of the Year (1987).  After retiring from football, he would go on to work as the director of sports development for Disney - yes, THAT Disney – helping to develop the World Wide of Sports complex that is still thriving today. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022), Williams chats with Tabari about life in the NFL, the litany of injuries he has dealt with post-football, his dual existence as a football player and politician and why cannabis is important to his quality of life today. There's even a question that only Tabari would ask which Williams provides an answer to as only he can – but you'll have to listen to the whole episode to find out what that is! Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Like many kids in America, Scott Smith grew up loving sports. Then, his grandmother gifted him a subscription to Sports Illustrated - and his life was forever changed.For while she may not have known it at the time, she had just laid the seed to create the man who would grow up to simply be known as "the SI King." Smith is the curator of the "SI King Collection," the 20,000+ autographed issues of Sports Illustrated in his home (yes, Tabari knows where, but he's not telling in case any of you have criminal leanings)! Smith has traveled the world working on his collection over the past 40 years, meeting countless athletes, politicians and celebrities along the way. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2022), Scott chats with Tabari about the origins of his collections, who has been the nicer athletes he's met over his collecting career, the highs and lows of collecting ... And the one or two signatures he'd be willing to drop thousands of dollars on to add to his collection. (If you have it, you'd gonna want to holler at him!)Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

In a former life,  Lauren Bishop was a simple journalist at a then top newspaper, often covering pop culture to the masses. Then, one day, she saw a sport on TV she had never seen before, becoming so enthralled that it became a major part of her life.   And that what led her to now be the next guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!Bishop is the owner of the Cincinnati Rollergirls, the women's roller derby team based out of Cincinnati, OH.  On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022), Lauren chats with Tabari about how she went from her laptop to the track, the sport's evolution over the past few decades, its connection to the LGTBQIA+ community, future plans and how it even led to her meeting the love of her life, a.k.a. a fellow podcaster on whose show Tabari may or may not have appeared in the past (he did)!Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

With apologies to DJ Khaled, all Spark Tabor does is win. After all, what else can you say to a man who was named the funniest person in Cincinnati not once but twice, the funniest person in Columbus, the funniest amateur comedian in Ohio, Chicago and most recently, Philadelphia? You can say hes's the next guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!Seen on Fox's "Laughs" series and soon to have his debut stand-up special hit the Internet, Spark Tabor has been making moves (both literally and figuratively) on the stand-up comedy scene for more than a decade. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2022), Spark chats with Tabari about basketball, whether they both said yes to "Nope," video games, the similarities and contrasts between stand-up comedy and deejaying weddings, having a fiancé who's professionally strong ... And why Spark still loves cookies for breakfast despite getting older.Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Don't let her pretty face – or cockney accent – fool you: Hatty Preston may be only 4 years into her stand-up comedy career, but she's a captivating, funny presence when she is on stage. And that makes her a perfect guest for the next episode of A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!A London-born, Chicago-built comedian, Preston is a regular at comedy clubs across her native city and adopted comedy hometown. The 2018 winner of ‘Breakin Thru' stand up competition, she also runs the popular regularly-sold-out ‘The Big Fizz' show at Notting Hill's Little Yellow Door when back across the pond in London. Whilst in Chicago she is a regular at all major comedy venues: Laugh Factory, Zanies, Comedy Bar and Second City. At The Laugh Factory she was a semi-finalist in their ‘Verified Laughs' competition and is a regular on their Saturday Night 'Chicago's Best Stand-Up' show. She has opened for major US comics such as Theo Von  and has performed at the prestigious New York Comedy Club and The Stand as well as The Creek and The Cave, Go Bananas (where she and Tabari first met) and The Virgil in Los Angeles. She also has performed at several  festivals across the US in Cleveland, Iowa City, Madison and Milwaukee in Wisconsin and Raleigh, North Carolina.As an actress, Hatty is best known for playing Princess Maribel in the E! Entertainment Network 's first scripted drama "The Royals" and for originating the role of Minty in Jennifer Saunders's ‘Viva Forever!' in London's West End.On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022), Hatty chats with Tabari about why she got out of acting, how she got into stand-up comedy, the oft-maligned subject of women in comedy, America vs. the UK and accents a'plenty!Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

"I'm back."OK, so maybe it doesn't quite have the big Michael Jordan returning to the NBA after that terrible experiment with baseball feel to it, but considering it's been 2+ months since the last episode of  A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy dropped, it will have to suffice! On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022), Tabari comes out with a solo episode that is exactly what you think it is: A long rant about everything from Donald Trump and Jan. 6 to Kanye West and sports before becoming the most detailed one man conversation about a soda some of you may or may not know well (but definitely will after this)!Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

So ... There hasn't been an episode of A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy in a while ... And on this episode, Tabari himself gets personal and explains just why that is.On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, May 25, 2022), Tabari gives an update on his recent trip to Oregon, some highs and lows of the last few weeks and other tidbits loyal A Tight 45 listeners might find interesting.  Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

He's a dad. He's a husband. He's a comic. He's Mark Chalifoux – and the next guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!Hailed as a “hilarious up-and-comer” by College Humor, Mark been featured on both FOX and IFC as well as on the Bob and Tom national radio show. His Midwestern upbringing contributes to the laid-back, relatable style that belies a sharp-wit and unflinching honesty relatable to audiences of all ages. His debut album, Think Fast, opened at No. 2 in Apple Music and was called “one of the funniest albums of the year” by the Daily Dot. His jokes can be heard regularly on SiriusXM and have been streamed more than 1 million times on Pandora. Mark is also one of the writers for The Dad, one of the most popular new entertainment brands on social media with more than 10 million followers. An accomplished journalist, he has also written for ESPN, The Baltimore Sun, The Cincinnati Enquirer and CBS Digital. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, May 4, 2022), Mark chats with Tabari about fatherhood and its impact on his comedy, his comedy's impact on his marriage, the pros and cons of life in and out of New York City ... And why it's best to turn off your competitive edge when coaching youth soccer. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Despite what Wikipedia says, Greg Morton is not a former NFL player. That is a different Greg Morton with the same spelling, but no relation.And once you see him live, there is no mistaking Greg Morton for anyone else – because he's a one-of-a-kind entertainer that delivers a show unlike any other. Getting his first job as a store P.A. announcer in his teens, Morton has spent 35+ years entertaining audiences worldwide opening for the likes of Celine Dion, Harry Connick, Jr. and Luther Vandross among others. Known for his impressions and physical humor, he has also been featured on numerous shows such as Comedy Central's Premium Blend, Comics Unleashes and in his own Dry Bar Comedy special. It was his run on season 14 of America's Got Talent where he made it to the semi-finals, however, where many people discovered what makes his show one of the most unique they'll ever experience.On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, April 13, 2022), Greg talks to Tabari about his comedy origins, having the ability to do all the voices in his head and what being on a show on AGT is really like. Tabari also shares a few of his own impressions with Greg to get feedback from the master - but you'll have to tune in to find out how that goes! Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

A native of Grapevine, Texas, Ben Baby grew up wanting to be a sportswriter, so much so that he once made a crazy ... Well, why give away that story when you can hear it for yourself on the latest episode of A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!Joining the ESPN, "The Worldwide Leader in Sports," in July 2019, Ben covers the Cincinnati Bengals as its beat writer for the web and ESPN Radio. Prior to joining ESPN, Ben covered Texas A&M and college athletics for The Dallas Morning News. He has also worked at the San Antonio Express-News and started his career as a full-time journalist in 2011 at the Denton Record-Chronicle. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, March 30, 2022), Ben talks to Tabari about his humble beginnings in Texas driving across the state to gigs, the sheer passion of Texas' high school football, the highs and lows of being a professional sportswriter, his amateur boxing career and his noted fashion sense among his peers. He also goes into where you can find some of the best food based on his road journeys, why we probably have yet to see a  Indian-American star break through in sports  ... And his thoughts on going to the Super Bowl LVI (and his breakdown of the halftime show).  Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

What is a musical art form that is classic in its nature but often overlooked for the skill and talent it takes to pull off, especially when 99.9% of the people you do it for have next to no idea it's about to happen? If you said the singing telegram, you'd be correct – but if you happen to be in the market for one, Jen Forti, owner and operator of Bellgram Telegrams of Portland, Ore. is standing by at your service!A woman of many talents and entrepreneurial ventures including various bands, performances and even a t-shirt company, Forti's origins with Bellagrams date back to 2018 as a simple side hustle. Eventually, the business grew to the point where it is now her main line of work, perfect for a self-starter who wanted to be her own boss and still exercise her performance genes. This is why she calls Bellagrams the culmination of all her previous work, which includes stints in the acts the March Fourth Marching Band and The Tangled Threads among others.   Now, she is focused on growing Bellagrams, which seeks to "Deliver  messages, lifting spirits, creating connection and bringing harmony into the world through memorable, music moments." With several others helping assist delivering tunes, the company is seeking to get into jingle writing and also offers virtual telegrams ("Zoom-A-Grams," if you will) that can be performed anytime, any place if the gig is right. The company is making all the right noise, if you will, as detailed in a recent feature in Portland Monthly, which is how they came onto Tabari's radar before coming reaching yours. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, March 16, 2022), Jen talks to Tabari about her vast travels as a singer, dancer, performer ... And even a living marionette puppet. The conversation then flows into what led to her launching Bellegram, the unique experience that comes from  traveling on a bus with dozens of people ... As well as what you might expect if your ex is still mad at you and you want Jen to help save your relationship. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

In addition to being a prominent tour de force in the stand-up comedy industry, Jackie Kashian is an actress, voice-over talent and podcaster. So what else did she recently fit into her schedule? The time to be the latest guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy! A working standup for  35+ years who has been heard and seen on the likes of NPR, Comedy Central, HBO's 2DopeQueens and most recently, The Late Late Show with James Corden, Jackie Kashian's credits are as numerous as her jokes are funny. (And she's got a lot of credits.) The host of two podcasts – the long-running The Dork Forest and The Jackie and Laurie Show with fellow comedian Laurie Kilmartin, Kashian's albums have reached no. 1 on both the Amazon and iTunes comedy charts and have earned 50 million+ listens on Spotify and Pandora internet radio. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, March 9, 2022), Tabari and Jackie talk about a slew of subjects including comedy, podcasting, getting older, music, politics, romance, movie pitches, fashion ... And the magic of California strip malls. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

She was just a small town girl ... Then she moved to Los Angeles to pursue a music career ... Only to inadvertently get an audition when she was, by her own admission, "terrible" at acting. Then she got a second chance – and the rest as they say (who are "they," by the way?!) is history.Known best to the world for her role as the spunky spitfire Nikki Franco on 90s hit V.I.P., Natalie Raitano (pronounced "ree-tah-no" if you're uncertain) is now back at home in her native Pennsylvania. She would go on to star in her own series, Pink, as well as several other movies and television roles thereafter, racking up a pretty nice iMDB resume in the process.  Now, she is living her proverbial best life, working as an entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast whose Superbodies by Nat is set to expand in a major way, continuing the work she's done as a celebrity fitness trainer for years. Quite comfortable away from the spotlight, she finds peace in the simple things and helps others to do the same. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, March 2, 2022), Tabari and Natalie talk about her journey from PA to LA, going from being an unknown to a star overnight, her relationship with Pamela Anderson during the VIP days, her faith, why being fit makes her so happy and what she might love to do should she ever decide to return to La La Land.Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Tabari first met Kevin Necessary when they both worked at The Cincinnati Enquirer ... And then they both got laid off. Then, they both went their respective ways on their own unique career paths, the latter having drawn a new path to happiness - literally.For you see, Kevin is now an award-winning editorial cartoonist whose work can once again be seen in Enquirer. But that's not all.  He's also had his work featured on WCPO-TV/ABC 9 On Your Side in Cincinnati and a syndicated editorial cartoonist through GoComics.com. He is also the illustrator of a children's book, My Best Friend Fiona written by Lucy May about the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden's prized hippo of the same name. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2022), Tabari and Kevin chat about drawing, the creative process,  the highs and lows of the last few years ... And a NSFW story that is also not safe for an amusement park!Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

The Cincinnati Bengals are in the Super Bowl – and Tabari could not be more excited! So, as opposed to having a new guest on this week, this seems like the perfect time to talk football with former A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy guests – and former NFL quarterbacks – Ken Anderson and Ryan Leaf!  On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022),  highlights from Tabari's interviews with two of A Tight 45's most popular guests are remixed together for one football mega-episode. So, if you want to hear about life in the NFL, life after football, takes on the Bengals – what did Ken have to say about the current team back in 2021? – and the highs and lows of fame, this episode is perfect for you to catch some of the best conversations you'll find from two men who played the game.  Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Matt Bergman is a very funny fellow who just dropped his latest album, Between You & Me, who also has a love of sports like A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy's namesake host. I guess that makes them kindred spirits in a way that connects thier shared love of cracking jokes and hear the crack of a baseball bat.   Matt  realized his love for comedy in his last year of college where he was pursuing a degree in criminal justice, pursuing after graduating. That has since led him to perform all across the country and on several TV shows such as Gotham Comedy Live, Comedy Central Live and star in A Little Bit Balder Now, his own special for the popular Dry Bar Comedy online network.  He has also put out several albums including his latest release, 2022's Between You and I and can be heard in regular rotation on Sirius/XM satellite radio.On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022), Tabari and Matt chat about their love of traveling to watch sports, food, gambling, Buffalo, Washington, D.C., the Midwest ... And of course, one of the worst candy bars on the market.  Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Mike Cronin was the emcee the night A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy's namesake Trecorded his debut album ... Now, he's headlining clubs nationwide all on his own. Funny how time flies, isn't it – the keyword in this case being "funny," of course.  Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio (hey - that's Tabari's hometown, too!), Mike now calls  Michigan home when he's not on the road performing. Self-deprecating and smart and yet somehow also not the brightest guy means well, Mike spent several years honing his craft at clubs and colleges near his hometown before relocating to Chicago, where he hosted the popular showcase, “Best Night Ever.” A performer  at the inaugural Limestone Comedy Festival, he has gone on to hit stages at The Boston Comedy Festival, the 10,000 Laughs Festival and can be frequently seen opening shows for Tom Segura. He also co-wrote and co-directed the music video for “The Hipster Song” with friend Alex Stone (another Tight 45 alum), which has been viewed over 900,000 times on YouTube. His debut album Hot For Too Long is out now with a second album set to be released in 2022. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2022), Tabari and Mike chat about their history in comedy, Midwest life, how a teacher inspired Mike's comedy career ... And just a bunch of other stuff that is as silly as you would expect when two decade-plus long friends start shooting the $!@!Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Clark Jones is a Chicago native that left a big city to chase his dreams in an even bigger city – and now, he's also the latest guest on A TIGHT 45 with TABARI McCOY! Moving to Brooklyn to pursue his stand-up dreams, Jones left his former job – teaching – in 2017  only to establish himself as one of the rising stars in New York City's comedy community.  In addition to appearing on Season 2 of Pete Holmes former HBO dramedy Crashing and Night Train with Wyatt Cenac on Starz , he has hosted the wildly popular Comedy at the Knitting Factory , taking over the spot once held by Hannibal Buress. In addition, 2016 saw Jones named one of the “11 Funniest Comedians in the Country” by BET and “One of the 50 Funniest People in Brooklyn” by Brooklyn Magazine.On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022), Tabari and Clark chat about all things Chicago (including baseball, hip-hop and pizza), their experience working in modern education, therapy, stand-up ... And why if stand-up doesn't work out, don't be surprised if you find one of Clark's creations at your local haberdashery (if you even know what a haberdashery is, that is)! Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Some people can paint a pretty picture, they say ... But in Jared Kelley's case, he literally paints pictures that thousands of people collect on a weekly basis.An illustrator who earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Auburn University in 2008, Kelley began working full-time as an illustrator in 2010 ... Only to end of leaving the art world later to support his wife and children. But a recommendation in the height of the first wave of the pandemic would change his life forever, bringing the largely self-taught trainer back to his first love: Painting portraits for what is arguably the most prominent and well-known trading card company in the world. Then again, his work as the official portrait painter for the National Trial Lawyer Association Hall of Fame, he likely won't have to go back to his previous career as a software engineer anytime soon. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2022), Tabari gets acquainted with Kelley as they talk about how he got his start, the toughest part of painting portraits and the advice he would give any parent with a child that wants to pursue a career in the arts. Of course, there's also plenty of sports talk which, given Kelley's status as an Auburn fan and Tabari's as a University of Cincinnati Bearcats fan, means the National Title Game this past Monday provided an instant common ground for both.Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

She's a media personality, an entrepreneur and now, she's the first three-time guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy to kick off the new year!On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022), Tabari  and his old friend Allie Martin catch up on all the things that have been going on since the last time they spoke, including Allie's pending return to the airwaves, the ups and downs of various social media platforms and dating/romance talk aplenty. It's always a fun, spirited (and dare one say, insightful?) conversation when these two get together – and this episode is no different. (Why do you think this is the third time she's been on the show?!)Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

She's a comic, a business owner and an all-around nice person ... And now, Kaitlin McCarthy is the latest guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!A Wisconsin native, McCarthy is a stand-up comic and co-producer – along with partners Matt Kemple and Greg Bach – of Milwaukee Comedy LLC, the force behind the renowned Milwaukee Comedy Festival and The Laughing Tap, the stand-up comedy venue they own in the heart of downtown Milwaukee. Opening just a few short months before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the club has become a lightning rod for all things funny in the best known city in America's Dairyland, where numerous notable comics such as Dulce Sloan, Jon Dore ... And even Tabari McCoy have headlined on the stage!  On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Dec. 15 2021), Tabari  talks with Kaitlin about all things comedy, from being a performer herself to running a club and a festival, the challenges of free speech in modern America and some of her favorite memories to date .... All while making a not-so-subtle pitch to make sure he returns to the land of beer and cheese next year himself.Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Some people make history – Soren Baker excels at documenting it ... And now, he's here to make a little history of his own as the latest guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!The man behind 3,500+ articles found in outlets such as The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, XXL and The Source, Baker is one of the most prolific journalists in hip-hop history. The former co-host of Open Bar radio with rapper/actor Xzibit on the legendary 93.5 KDAY in Los Angeles from 2014-16, he is also the co-author of 2020's acclaimed The Gucci Mane Guide To Greatness. In addition, he is the author of the critically acclaimed 2018 book The History Of Gangster Rap. He also authored 2006's The Music Library: The History of Rap and Hip-Hop and 2011's I'm The White Guy - The Tech N9ne Edition and I'm The White Guy - The Jay-Z Edition. This is in addition to co-authoring books with The Game, Glasses Malone as well as three books on the Baltimore Ravens. His Unique Access Ent. YouTube channel has more than 7.3 million views and 36,000 subscribers. A Maryland native, Baker has penned liner notes for albums by 2Pac, Ice Cube, N.W.A. and Gang Starr among others. The former News Editor of HipHopDX.com, he has written and produced programs for several television networks and record companies. He produced the Ultimate Albums episode on Eminem's The Marshall Mathers LP for VH1, and wrote and served as creative consultant for CeeLo Green's Lay It Down show on Fuse. He also co-directed, wrote and produced the Tech N9ne Psychumentary DVD, which sold more than 14,000 copies independently. He has also penned two feature films/scripted series in development, both to be directed by Bill Duke (Hoodlum, Sister Act 2: Back In The Habit, Deep Cover). Baker made his directorial debut in 2017 with White Girl Voice, a short that he also wrote and produced.On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2021), Tabari and Soren talk about how he got his start in journalism, what it's like to cover some of the biggest names in hip-hop history, their shared Cincinnati connections ... And who would be in his collective Top 5 artists of all-time.Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Rachel Mac is a very funny stand-up comedian and writer. She is also a teacher and very dedicated to her job. Sometimes those two careers cross paths with hilarious - and other times, very serious - results.   Which will happen the next time she grabs the microphone? Only time will tell ... But in the meantime, she's willing to tell Tabari all about on the latest episode of A Tight 45!Featuring on Lights Out with David Spade on Comedy Central, Rachel Mac is a Midwest native who moved to California to pursue her dream of being a stand-up comedian. But then a global pandemic changed up her plans quite a bit.  On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Dec 1, 2021), Rachel talks with Tabari about teaching, the high and lows of working in education and stand-up comedy, motherhood and more in a conversation that is honest, insightful and humorous all at the same time.Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Ben Katzner (@shaqkatzner on Twitter) is a comedian originally from the Midwest who now can be found all around New York City slinging jokes. Luckily, that's all he's slinging – on stage at least. For if he was the lead character in the children's book that debuted this year, let's just say things would get messy to say the least. Ben's work can be seen in the likes of several prominence places around the Internet, including like Insider, Buzzfeed and The National Lampoon Network. Earlier this year saw him debut his  graphic (pun intended in a good-natured way) novel Hello, My Name is Poop. Published by Vault Comics/Wonderbound books, the story revolves around a young African-American named Will Poupé who faces the normal problems associated with adolescence. Then he moves to a new school, runs afoul (pun intended) of some people ... And then gets blessed with a new name that comes with certain privileges ... On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021), Ben talks with Tabari about their Midwest roots, adoption, his campaign to free a no-longer imprisoned rapper and adoption on a fun-filled episode featuring two dudes just having fun conversing. In these crazy days, isn't that enough? Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

He's a comedian, an actor, married with children (and MUCH happier than Al Bundy was) as well as a fellow podcast – and as you may have guessed, Nick Hoff is now the latest guest on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!Known for hosting his own show on SiriusXM radio, "the Hoff" (not to be confused with the one that was on Baywatch) MTV and can often be seen in commercials for Miller Lite, Pepsi and Amazon among others, working with directors including Peter Farrelly (There's Something About Mary, Dumb and Dumber) and the late, great Philip Seymour Hoffman. A comedy writer who's contributed to Life & Style magazine, he was also  a featured act in Netflix's Wild West Comedy Festival.He was also was hand-picked by Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy to open for them on their critically acclaimed “We've Been Thinking” Tour.  He has headlined the “Pink Ribbon Comedy Tour,” raising money for breast cancer research, doing 65 shows in 40 cities.On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021), Nick talks with Tabari about dad life, working with the aforementioned Blue Collar Comedy all-stars, his native Nebraska ... And just a bunch of stuff as they go all over the place in a humorous conversation with twists and turns aplenty.Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Amy Miller may be older than she looks, but she's also much funnier than she knows you think she probably is when you first see her – and that's why she's one of the best comics working today.A native of the Bay Area now living in Los Angeles, Miller's resume is far from short on credits establishing her place in the world of stand-up. One of Comedy Central's "Up Next" comics for 2018 who gained even more national exposure on season nine of NBC's Last Comic Standing, Miller has also been seen on Viceland's Flophouse. Additionally, she was the winner of several awards during her tenure in Portland (2012-2015) and her Comedy Central Presents special has been viewed online more than 3 million times. This is in addition to being heard on SiriusXM, NPR, the popular Doug Loves Movies podcast with host Doug Benson, The Adam Carolla Show. She also recently wrapped  up her tenure on the podcast "Who's Your God?," where she and John Michael Bond would discuss religion and faith with other comedians. Her debut album Solid Gold, was named one of the top 10 comedy albums of 2016 by Interrobang. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021), Amy talks with Tabari about comedy, the idea of comedians as prophets, faith and our place in the universe before ending with some standard random, rapid fire questions that end things on an entertaining note. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Anthony "Tank" Mansfield is a lot like Tabari in many ways: They both like wrestling, they both live in the same neighborhood and they both have a few friends in common, including Mansfield's other half with whom Tabari used to work at The Cincinnati Enquirer. They also both hosts podcasts and collect things ... Which means this episode of A Tight 45 is about to be a total nerd fest or a love fest of hobbies depending on your perspective. Mansfield is the host of What Ya Into?,  "an interview show that focuses on deep diving into hobbies and collections. Every guest has a different one and host Anthony 'Tank' Mansfield wants to find out how they got into it and learn all about it." Billed as  "sometimes weird, often educational, and always fun," the show has featured Mansfield talking to some guests with some very interesting collections that Tabari never would have imagined in his wildest dreams. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021), Tank and Tabari talk about all things collecting and podcasts about collecting, making for a fun, lively conversation ... That's definitely as nerdy as you think it is. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Actor. Podcast host. Comedian – and no, we're not talking about Tabari. This man is also a father (which Tabari is not even close to ever being as of yet). He's Yannis Pappas – and he's the latest guest to grace the mic on the latest episode of A Tight 45. A man of many talents (and characters), there are plenty of places you've probably seen Yannis, even if you didn't know it. There's  his 2014 Comedy Central Presents half hour special and his 2019 hours special Blowing the Light (available directly on his website and YouTube). He was also the host of NextVR's 2018-19 pre-pandemic virtual reality live stand-up series, Live In Gotham (44 episodes 2018-19), AOL's award winning original series, 2 Point Lead (a sports comedy show) ... In addition to serving as the co-host of MSG's sports fan show, The Bracket as well as ABC's Fusion Live.  His 2016 album Let Me Be Yannis is available on iTunes and Spotify. He has also been part of the international Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal, the New York Comedy Festival and is known for his immensely popular characters Mr. Panos and Maurica. He is also the co-host of the podcast Long Days with Yannis Pappas, which is available on YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts. On this episode (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2021), the newfound friends come out the gates firing talking about a bunch of stuff at a rapid fire pace. (Seriously, we hope you can keep pace!) The episode ends, however,  with a much more solemn tone as Tabari talks about a friend that is no longer with us. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Like a lot of people, Kati Taylor loves music. Unlike a lot of people, however, she loves music so much that back in 2019, she decided to start hosting a monthly concert series in her home. Like, inside of her home. Two years-plus and one pandemic later and the shows are still going strong. Needless to say, the “little flower” that she started with has grown and blossomed quite well. Taylor is the creator, producer, booker and promoter of the “Little Flower Concert Series,” the monthly performance showcase she hosts at (both inside and outside) her home in Indianapolis, IN. A creative person by design (graphic design, to be precise), Taylor found a love of music at an early age and has stuck with it ever since. Now, her concert series has seen artists from as far away as California take the literal stage in her backyard and/or perform inside of her home to a steady crowd of well-wishers and supporters. On this episode of A Tight 45 (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2021), Taylor talks how she got her start hosting concerts, why she enjoys live entertainment so much and how much joy it brings her and the community of followers that have come to support it.  For more information on the concert series, contact littleflowerhouseconcerts@gmail.com today.Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com. 

Ben Butcher gets paid to play with toys for a living ... Pretty sweet gig, huh?Butcher is SVP of Creative for Funko, LLC., the Everett, WA based juggernaut that is "one of the leading creators and innovators of licensed pop culture products to a diverse range of consumers. Funko designs, sources and distributes highly collectible products across multiple categories including vinyl figures, action toys, plush, apparel, housewares and accessories." A 20 year veteran of the licensed product business that "has worked on all sides of the process," Butcher – a native of Tacoma, WA – joined Funko in 2013. Before joining Funko he spent the previous 11 years working as the Creative Director of Consumer Products for Pixar Animation Studios ... Yes, THAT Pixar Animation Studios. On this episode of A Tight 45 (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021),  Butcher talks about all things Funko including the company's creative process, how they try to deal with bootlegging and the occasional angry collector in addition to sharing a few fun stories while answering Tabari's burning questions. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Imagine giving a decade of your life to building a music career ... Only to find yourself hating your catalogue years later. What would you do? If you're Jay Mumford a.k.a. J-Zone, you nearly leave the business entirely, only to come back, leave again and completely re-invent yourself.  Which is exactly what he did.And now, he couldn't be happier – and his band The Du-Rites couldn't be making funkier jams if they tried.Beginning his musical career as a teenager interning as the famed Power Play Studios in Queens, NY in 1992, J-Zone released his first album – Music For Tu Madre – as his senior project at Purchase College (SUNY) in the late 90s. He would spend the next decade making ribald rap music that was lyrically influenced by the likes of 70s icons like Dolemite and musically by groups like Slave and the Ohio Players. His production talents (often found on his own label, Old Maid Entertainment), saw him work with a number of artists including Gnarls Barkley, the Lonely Island, E-40 and the late Biz Markie among others.   Then, in 2008, he quit.  He would return briefly between 2013-2016, releasing two more albums under his J-Zone moniker, 2013's introspective but still curmudgeonly Peter Pan Syndrome and 2016's Fish N' Grits. He would also release a book (Root for the Villain) during his hiatus detailing his musical career, in addition to teaching at his alma mater and writing for outlets such as Ego Trip and SLAM Magazine.  Now, he is pursuing his true passion: Playing drums as a member of The Du-Rites, the band he started with longtime collaborator Pablo Martin in 2013. On this episode of A Tight 45 (out on all major platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021),  Mumford tells the full story of music career as well diving into where it's going on the eve of The Du-Rites new six-song EP, Pressure. Tabari also manages to find the time to ask one of his favorites a number of random questions longstanding fans will want to know, including whether or not he ever heard from Lucy Liu and what his dream car would be if he could get it. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Sam Evans is a "Sweet Baby Boy" – or at least that's what the title of his debut album of the same name would have you believe. He's also  performed at the prestigious Just For Laughs International Comedy Festival ... And he's an old friend of Tabari's. He's also really, really funny – and the latest guest on A Tight 45.  A native of the Toledo, OH, area, Sam Evans (@reallysamevans on Instagram and Twitter) now calls New York City home. Releasing his debut album via the Blonde Medicine label in 2020, he is also one of the Big Apple's up-and-coming (truly!) comics ... And just so happens to be roommates with past A Tight 45  guest Katie Boyle! if you're going to be in the Denver area this September, be sure to catch him at the High Plains Comedy Festival, too! On this episode of A Tight 45 (out on all major podcast platforms Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021), Sam and Tabari talk about maturity both on and off stage, life in New York City, therapy, old shows and of course, diverge into frivolity and silliness at various points in between – especially when they get into hypothetical questions. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

He has talked about people's souls leaving this earth, being transported to the shadow realm, the upper realm, being transmogrified and generally, if there's a video of someone getting knocked out, he's there.He is Dave Antoine, stand-up comedian. But to thousands who love to watch his videos, he is best known as Chiseled Adonis – and he's the latest guest on on A Tight 45 with Tabari McCoy!  On this episode of A Tight 45 (out on all major podcast platforms Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021), Tabari sits down and talks with the Chiseled one about how he got his start in comedy, becoming a viral video sensation, their mutual appreciation of pro wrestling and his future aspirations among a number of subjects. As you might expect, there are plenty of laughs and insights ... And possibly even a new catchphrase or two as well!Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

So ... What happens when your scheduled guest has vehicle trouble and then can't make it in time for their interview? In Tabari's case (who's totally NOT writing this in the third person as if he's not the one composing it), you go solo for dolo and have yourself as the featured guest! On this episode of A Tight 45 (out on all major podcast platforms Wednesday, Aug. 11, 2021), Tabari delivers the first 45-minute-esque episode in a while as he talks solo about a bevy of subjects including masks, being black in America/the justice system, sports, dating ... And he totally can't remember the rest. Just listen to the episode! Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

She's still talented, she's still tall ... And she's now the first returning guest in the history of A Tight 45! On this episode of A Tight 45 (out on all major podcast platforms Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2021), Allie Martin returns to give a major career/life update before chatting it up with Tabari about a number of subjects. These include the Olympics, the Delta variant, motorcycles, entrepreneurship, sugary goodness vs. exercise, the key to being a good party guest and a personal battle in her life to which many can likely relate. The conversation runs long (as it always does when Tabari has a chance to catch up Ms. Martin), but the end result is the same as their first encounter: Filled with laughs, insight and introspection all within 45 minutes ... Plus about another 15-20!Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Hannah Roeschlein is many things – raw, uncensored, fearless and funny. She's also biracial, a preacher's kid, from small town Indiana and set to record her debut album for 800 Pound Gorilla Records. Needless to say, she's got a lot to say – and plenty of time to immortalize it with punchlines.On this episode of A Tight 45 (out on all major podcast platforms Wednesday, July 28, 2021), Hannah joins Tabari to talk about sobriety, being a woman of Asian descent in modern America, Reggie Miller, her comedy odyssey to date ... And her take on the "shoot your shot" approach when it comes to dating. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Gabe Kea is many things: Tall, a hockey fan, a dad and part part-Canadian among them. He's also a very talented comedian ... Which is why the latest episode of A Tight 45 is going to cover all those bases and more.Standing 6'5," Gabe is part showman and part thinker, part pure silliness and part abstract realism, a product surely derived from experiences living in the United States and Canada. Starting stand-up in St. Louis, he now resides in Cincinnati, OH although he can found regularly touring the country performing at comedy clubs nationwide, opening for the likes of stars like Joel McHale, Bert Kreischer ... And some fellow named Dave Chappelle.A frequent guest on the nationally syndicated Bob & Tom Show, his debut album Dumber Than a Fish released in 2020 and can be heard on Raw Dog Comedy, Laugh USA, & Comedy Roundup via Sirius XM radio. The son of former National Hockey League player Ed Kea, Gabe now is a dedicated dad and rec league player himself when not on stage attempting to make audiences guffaw at his observations. On this episode of A Tight 45 (out on all major podcast platforms Wednesday, July 21, 2021), Gabe joins Tabari to chat about a wide variety of topics ranging from serious to downright silly including names, joke writing and stage persona development, fatherhood, fisticuffs, hanging with famous peers ... and how his dad's prowess with the latter made quite the impression on some of hockey's most famous brothers. Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.

Seattle is known for many things: The Space Needle, the Seattle Mariners, Seattle Seahawks, Public Square Market and the Puget Sound. It was also home to the Comedy Underground, where comedian Ty Barnett got his start. And as the alumni of Last Comic Standing can tell you, he's never looked back since. A staple of the stand-up comedy circuit whose highlights include Comedy Central and Dry Bar specials, Barnett has also been seen on several TV shows including America's Got Talent and sitcoms such as Samantha Who and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. He has also been seen in a number of commercials, which has been quite lucrative over the years.On this episode of A Tight 45, Ty joins Tabari to chat about pandemic highs and lows, sports, he got started in commercials,  reality TV comedy shows, his hat game and drops knowledge about both sides on a very controversial topic .Check out this episode and others you may have missed at https://atight45.buzzsprout.com/or wherever you get your podcasts today! For more on Tabari or ask a question, be sure to visit www.tabarimccoy.com or email tabari@tabarimccoy.com.