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Chris Ruppe is our guest on this episode, and he is also our Patreon sponsor. I first met Chris at a Christian Comedy Association conference. Since then he has developed material and started to think about going full time into comedy. Along those lines, Chris had some specific questions about making that move. If you are considering making comedy a full-time job, this episode is a musty listen. CHRIS RUPPE SHOW NOTES Specifically, we talk about: How he got started promoting shows before being a comedian Jokes he's working on now Tips on finding an “extra gear” to copse your show on Writing his closing bits A fun way to find out who you talk about in your show Paul Gilmartin's “Sister Joan” poem Tips on when to go full time in comedy How do you navigate secular shows as a Christian comedian? Do you think it is okay to collaborate as a comedian? Tips on getting booked. And much, much more. (c)(p) 2021 Rik Roberts School of Laughs www.SchoolOfLaughs.com
“Cancel Culture” is a term that has become more prevalent. In the world of comedy, it’s one step further down the path of political correctness. Today we talk about what it is, how it affects comedy, and what comedians can do to neutralize its invasion of our art form. Webster defines cancel culture as “a way of behaving in society or group, especially on social media, in which it is common to completely reject and stop supporting someone because they have said or done something that offends you.” But here’s here is the thing. Stand-up comedy specifically is your opinion, your thought, and your attempt to make somebody laugh. That’s what standup comedy is. It’s your opinion, your thought, your attempt to make somebody laugh. And that is important. It should be about trying to get people to laugh. Standup comedy is an art form with its primary focus on generating laughs, but it has evolved over time into an art form that can also be used to address social issues, advance one’s agenda, or potentially lead others to change their thought or alter their beliefs. And then evolution is the tricky part because that’s what is rubbing up against the edges of cancer culture because now you’re taking your belief system and challenging someone else’s or challenging someone else’s with yours, and you start taking a stance against things. That tension can lead to some friction, some push back. We tackle this evolutionary overlap in today’s episode. COUNTERING CANCEL CULTURE Specifically, we talk about: The definition of comedy and cancel culture What causes people to be offended How comedians leave themselves vulnerable to it What comics can do to prevent attacks The reason you need to know your target in a joke Different types of targets “The Planet is Fine” routine by George Carlin How to back up your opinions like George Carlin What I think about Ruth’s Chris Steak House Why you should work on your craft What Jon Stewart thinks about Thanksgiving How assumption and cancel culture go hand in hand And a whole lot more! (c)(p) 2021 The Rik Roberts School of Laughs www.SchoolOfLaughs.com
Have you ever wondered what it takes to produce a movie, write a jingle, or land Bob Dylan's manager? Well, today you are in luck! I have a pod-swap interview with Rick Altizer. Not only is Rick an incredibly good friend, but we also share an office! Over the years I've learned a lot about his character, his dedication to his work, and his incredible focus. I thought you would find his story interesting and inspirational. Join me as I sit down and talk with Rick Altizer about what he has learned from his years in show business. Specifically, we talk about his run as a film director of such movies as Russ Taff - I Still Believe, and three projects with Chonda Pierce - "Enough", "Laughing In The Dark" and "Unashamed". Currently, Rick is working on a movie for the Kendrick Brothers (War Room, Courageous, Fire Proof) titled "Show Me the Father". In the discussion, we talk about the gravity of story in films that can also be applied to your stand-up. We also dig into the nuts and bolts of organizing hours of material into a tangible product. Film Maker Rick Altizer Show Notes: Rick's early years as a rock-n-roller How Bob Dylan's manager took him on Why he didn't get a deal with Sony The healthy lesson of finding your identity Finding a business partner to complement his creativity His work with Chonda Pierce How a plan for a 5-minute demo turned into a documentary Learning how to edit a movie The burden of expectation Looking at disappointments objectively And a whole lot more! THANKS TO OUR PATREON SPONSOR: Thanks to John Smith for being our Patreon sponsor for this episode. You can learn more about supporting the podcast by visiting THIS LINK. More with Rick Altizer: And if you like this episode, you may want to check out Rick's previous visit to the podcast on Episode 119 Stand-Up Comedy Examined. Visit his website: http://www.rickaltizer.com (c)(p) The Rik Roberts School of Laughs www.SchoolOfLaughs.com
Have you ever wondered what goes through a comedian’s mind when they tell a joke that doesn’t work? Whether you’re an aspiring comedian or a hardcore comedy nerd, The Art of Bombing Podcast has something for everyone. From useful comedy insight to entertaining stories of bombing and failure told by the comedians that lived through them. Join Rik Roberts as he sits down and talks with comedian Dan Bublitz Jr about what he has learned from his interviews. After talking with comedians of all levels from across the country he has some great insights. Show Notes: Different comedy communities from South Dakota to St. Paul, MN What it's like being new to a comedy scene even though you aren't new to comedy Moving to the Midwest to be closer to road work Rick Bronson's House of Comedy https://moa.houseofcomedy.net Acme Comedy Company http://www.acmecomedycompany.com The Joke Joint Working out material at other rooms before the comedy club open mic Approaching political comedy topics as a neutral POV Christopher Titus And a whole lot more! THANKS TO OUR PATREON SPONSOR: Thanks to Josh Liston for being our Patreon sponsor for this episode. You can learn more about supporting the podcast by visiting THIS LINK. More about Dan Bublitz: And if you like this episode, you may want to check out Dan's "The Art of Bombing Podcast" which takes an in-depth look at bombing on stages around the world to turn failure into success, perhaps, with a laugh or two along the way. Check out this episode with Alonzo Boden: https://theartofbombing.libsyn.com/size/5/?search=alonzo+ Or this one with Andrew Deans: https://theartofbombing.libsyn.com/the-art-of-bombing-episode-50-andrew-deans Maybe listen to my first episode with Dan: https://theartofbombing.libsyn.com/the-art-of-bombing-episode-59-rik-roberts The Art of Bombing Podcast was created in 2017 by Dan Bublitz Jr. after he bombed so badly at a private gig that he almost quit comedy. Instead of quitting he decided to talk about failure with other performers to see how they use their failure to succeed. (C)(P) 2021 Rik Roberts School of Laughs
This is the follow-up podcast to episode 235 where I shared my process of preparing for my last recording. You can listen to that podcast HERE. In this episode, I review the live recording. Offering up insights into my thinking for choosing certain jokes, we talk about what went well and what could have been different. We start off by listening to the set. If you prefer, you can watch the set to see the facial expressions, etc., at this link: https://vimeo.com/518305058 We cover a lot in this episode, including: Leading up to show My "purpose" for the set The jokes I chose to set up my P.O.V. (Point of View) Having to abandon a call back because of a change in a set order Using the process of conditional logic to create material Using a technique that enables me to "pick on" someone Examples of rhymes, alliteration, and visual images Being extremely current Experimenting the day of the recording And much more. You may have a different process for getting ready. Feel free to comment below and help others. This is the first of two parts of the podcast. Episode 236 will include the recording of the set and my reactions to it. You can listen to it by clicking here. Thanks to Kevin Hardy for being our Patreon sponsor for this episode. You can learn more about supporting the podcast by visiting THIS LINK. (C) (P) 2021 Rik Roberts School of Laughs www.RikRoberts.com
Listen and Share DSP: https://www.deadsetpodcasting.com (https://www.deadsetpodcasting.com) Support DSP: https://buymeacoffee.com/deadpod (https://buymeacoffee.com/deadpod) In this episode Josh talks content creation with Professional Comedian and Long-time Podcaster, Rik Roberts, from The School of Laughs podcast. Rik has shares some serious gold in this episode, including: • how Rik views praise for his early work (spoiler: he is completely content with the audience mentioning his first 50-70 episodes on a constant basis). • how Rik moved from working with a co-host (the fantastic Gavin Miller) to working without a co-host, and how he approaches School of Laughs now in 2020. • how Rik edits to give both his interview guests and also his listeners the best possible experience while taking part in School of Laughs (spoiler: he edits for non-Boring first and foremost!) Find Rik online here: • https://www.schooloflaughs.com (https://www.schooloflaughs.com) • https://rikroberts.com (https://rikroberts.com) Support this podcast
Sword Swallower Dan Meyer grew up as a scared, shy, skinny, wimpy kid who was teased and beat up by the bullies. He convinced himself that someday he would perform superhuman feats, DO the IMPOSSIBLE, and change the world. And he did! Today Dan mixes danger, laughter, and swords to defy death with a smile. And as he does … he inspires audiences to do the impossible in their lives. I first found out about Dan when he contacted me about taking the online writing course this past spring. As we talked I could tell this guy had an incredible love for life and desire to constantly up his game. My kind of dude! Then I learned even more about his sword swallowing and his accomplishments. Dan has performed in 50 countries and was given the title of “World’s TOP Sword Swallower” by Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Dan holds 40 World Records, has appeared on the Today Show, the finals of America’s Got Talent, Italy’s Got Talent, France’s Got Talent, and Israel’s Got Talent. In 2007, Dan won the 2007 Ig Nobel Prize in Medicine at Harvard; and his viral TED Talk “Cutting through Fear” has been translated into over 80 languages as the “Most Translated TED Talk” in the world. Dan’s goal is to challenge others to think beyond the obvious, stretch beyond their limitations, dream bigger than they ever thought possible, and dare to do the impossible in their lives. Learn more about sword swallower Dan Meyer at www.CuttingEdgeInnertainment.com Specifically, we talk about: Establishing a life goal or Throme How Dan uses the rule of threes in structuring his show Focusing on serving the audience And much, much more! THANKS Thanks to our Patreon sponsor for this episode Lauren Aynsley. This podcast is a production of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs. (C)(P) 2020 All rights reserved. Learn more at www.SchoolofLauhgs.com.
OVERCOMING STAGE FRIGHT Today we make a call all the way to Scotland to talk about overcoming stage fright. Elissa Di Napoli is the best-selling author of “Dare to Be Seen” from Stage Fright to Stage Presence. She helps performing artists command the stage and magnify their presence. By doing so, they can share their gifts with their audience and shine their light on the world. She has been featured on radio, podcasts, blogs, and online magazines. As a musician and performer, she has insights on overcoming fright. There are so many things to consider when taking the stage. We should consider a few ways to prepare before we get under the spotlight. As a hypnotherapist, she found ways to address the fear and saw results. She is as passionate about helping you deal with stage fright as she is performing. Specifically, we talk about: What "didn't work" for her initially How Improvisation helps with stage fright How to "warm-up" before a performance to take control of the situation Being connected to your subject matter The role of the Amygdala in processing fear What is happening during a panic attack The role of pre-show aerobic exercise How to ground yourself like a tree How diaphragmatic breathing affects the nervous system The freedom of a "giving" mindset How to address a show where the other performers have created a bad situation Using disruption as an opportunity Focusing on being in the moment And much, much more! FREE RESOURCES FOR SCHOOL OF LAUGHS LISTENERS!!! Please take advantage of these offerings from Elissa! https://hypnotichealing.co.uk/schooloflaughs (FREE BOOK) https://hypnotichealing.co.uk/getonlinecourse (HER COURSE) THANKS Thanks to our Patreon sponsor for this episode Rhonda Corey. Check out her "Talk is Cheap" Show. Learn how you can support the podcast HERE. This podcast is a production of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs. (C)(P) 2020 All rights reserved. Learn more at www.SchoolofLauhgs.com.
CREATING A TV SHOW with JIM HOPE Today we are talking about creating a TV show with my friend Jim Hope. He's a whiz who writes, performs, and produces comedy. I first met Jim when I performed on the Henry Cho Show on Great American Country (GAC Cable TV). He was a co-writer and producer and I could tell a smart guy. I caught him again a few years later performing on the showcase for the Christian Comedy Association in Los Angeles. And then one morning I was watching the Disney Channel with my kids and his name popped up as the co-executive producer for "Dog with a Blog." I reached out to Jim in the early phase of the COVID-19 crisis because I figured it might be the only time I could reign in the busy man. And we all benefit from the conversation. Jim gives us a lot to think about. Jim Hope Show Notes Specifically, we talk about: His early goal of being a college professor just like his grandfather How he got a little burned out with college and tried stand-up The pros and cons of starting comedy in Los Angeles How performing on stage is like being naked When comedians start to "build their armor" Opening for Tim Allen, Gilbert Gottfried, Chris Rock, and Damon Wayans Getting tips early on from Ellen Degeneres Why you shouldn't try to be Jerry Seinfeld What motivates him to keep doing comedy Developing a show for Disney Jr., and an animated adult show Teaching at Chapman University Creating a TV show The types of comedy tropes "Helpers and obstacles" Breaking down the characters on "The Office" The ideal length of a comedy show And much, much more! This podcast is a production of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs. (C)(P) 2020 All rights reserved. Learn more at School of Lauhgs.com
On this episode we are talking college comedy with Eric O'Shea. Colleges have entertainment budgets and seek out comedians, bands and other performers to fill their schedule. Could you fill your schedule with college work? Eric breaks down what you need in terms of material, personality, flexibility and longevity. If you are curious what it takes to break into the college comedy scene this is a great listen! Our guest shares insight on the National Association For Activities . He reveals what it takes to connect with 18-21 year olds year after year. Even as you get into your 50's. In this episode "College comedy with Eric O'Shea " he also discuss the magic that can happen at a NACA regional conference. And if you want to learn more about the college market, be sure to listen to Episode 149 Summit Comedy Inc. . On that episode I discuss the college market from the perspective a college agent with Chuck Johnson. College Comedy with Eric O'Shea Show Notes We discuss a lot, including ... How a guy calling Bingo numbers inspired his comedy career His niche within the niche of the college market Embracing the need to be clean and respectful and still generate laughs Connecting with a younger audience The types of kids who typically show up at a college gig A gig we did together in Victoria British Columbia What he likes about Savannah, GA and Billings, MT Being a positive role model Writing a book about college comedy and a whole lot more! Thanks to Wayne Fitzpatrick, our Patreon sponsor for this episode. If you would like to supportive podcast through a small, recurring monthly donation check out THIS LINK. CLASSES AVAILABLE ONLINE Remember you can always jump into a stand-up comedy writing course online through the school of laughs. Just click the online comedy classes link to learn more. This podcast is a production of The Rik Roberts School of Laughs. www.SchoolofLaughs.com
MOODY MOLAVI joins us today to talk comedy. Specifically we talk about: MOODY MOLAVI SHOW NOTES Getting started in Chattanooga Crashing cars and motorcycles Learning about trigger words in a joke Using his background for stage material His desire to perform for the military Doing his DryBar comedy special Going on the road with Killer Baez and much, much more! The Patreon sponsor for the episode is Bo Shuster. To learn how you can support the podcast go to www.SchoolOflaughs.com /Patreon. Learn more about Moody at www.MoodyMolavi.com This is a production of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs All Rights Reserved 2020 (C) (P)
In this episode, we have a conversation with Rik Roberts, professional comedian and founder of School of Laughs. He is a mentor of comedians and travels extensively across the country performing at live comedy shows. Discover his tips for staying fit while traveling, it will surprise you. Learn the process he uses to be funnier as a comedian. Be inspired to tap into more laughs for your life as you hear Rik’s journey as a stand-up comedian.
This week's guest is Doc Kennedy. He’s a comedian currently based in the Nashville area. When we recorded this, the plans were to move to Dallas…though I am not sure that’s still the case. But, if you follow our friend on social media, he’ll keep you up to date. Doc is a podcaster on the Free to Laugh Podcast, he’s a comedian, and he’s also the editor for the School of Laughs podcast by Rik Roberts. We talk about faith and comedy, and the new blessing that is on the way for his family, and a whole lot more. www.dockennedylive.comFacebook: DocKennedyLiveFree to Laugh Podcast: http://freetolaugh.us/Check out the Rik Roberts School of Laughs podcast here: https://www.schooloflaughs.com/podcast/________________________Would you consider being a patron? Visit our Patreon Page at www.patreon.com/gifts4glory and help us continue to do this great work!For our ministries within Gifts for Glory, follow us on:Facebook: @Gifts4GloryTwitter: @Gifts4GloryInstagram: @Gifts4GloryContact Dave directly at:Dave@gifts4glory.comImprov Ministry:Facebook/Twitter/Instagram: @WellVersedCMDYPureFest: Chicago’s Faith-Based Improv and Sketch Festival:Facebook/Twitter/Instagram: @PureFestChicago#OGHG Our Gifts for His Glory.Music: https://www.purple-planet.com
Mike Goodwin is a refreshingly funny comedian, speaker, and leader. His signature bowtie is a nod to his expectation-defying brand of comedy that leaves a variety of audiences - from corporate events to swanky galas - laughing hysterically and completely inspired, without a foul or vulgar word spoken. A native of Camden, South Carolina, Mike was raised in a family that had its share of dysfunction. He learned at an early age how to use laughter to pierce through tension and in some cases, ease pain. As a result, he developed an affinity for comedy and used it as a way to cope through difficult situations he faced as a child. After graduating from high school, Mike enlisted in the United States Army, where he served for a total of 12 years - four in active duty, and the balance as an ROTC cadet and commissioned officer in the U.S. Army Reserves. While attending college at Lander University in Greenwood, SC, he became active on campus and honed his leadership skills by serving as a campus ambassador, hosting events, and joining his fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi. MIKE GOODWIN SHOW NOTES: Today we talk about many things, including: Pacing Your Set Getting started with Akintunde Taking the focus off of him at the beginning of the set Having Fun and Blessing the People Leadership Speaking Gigs All of this and more in this episode of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs! LEARN MORE ABOUT NMIKE GOODWIN: WEBSITE: https://www.edwileycomedy.com Episode Sponsors ... THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY PATREON SUPPORTER KAY DODD AND THE ART OF BOMBING PODCAST ... SUBSCRIBE TODAY!
Ed Wiley is a comedian who weaves spot-on impressions and music into a traditional stand-up act. A native Georgian, Ed lives on a south Georgia farm with his wife, six children, eight cats, a dog, umpteen goats, two rabbits, and a healthy supply of antacids. In other words, it's a homeschool paradise. Ed blends just the right mix of stand-up, guitar, improv, and impressions to bring a clean, relevant show with something for everyone. His act reaches across generations and backgrounds to connect with people of all ages. ED WILEY SHOW NOTES: Today we talk about many things, including: His previous life as a Elvis Impersonator Six Children / Sixty Goats The subjectivity of Stand up comedy Derrick Tenant’s "Bleep Free" Comedy Show Family open mics on the farm Having three different pieces go viral on Facebook Civil War Mix Tape Trump hands on April the Giraffe Trump on staff at your church video clip with 6 million views How tweets don’t always translate to the stand-up show Dealing with trolls and haters Driving two and half hours (each way) to do an open mic, every week Doing impressions in grade school to get out of trouble All of this and more in this episode of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs! LEARN MORE ABOUT ED WILEY: WEBSITE: https://www.edwileycomedy.com FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/edwileycomedy TWITTER: https://twitter.com/EdWiley Episode Sponsors ... THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY PATREON SUPPORTER BRAD BER AND THE ART OF BOMBING PODCAST ... SUBSCRIBE TODAY! FOLLOW ART OF BOMBING ON TWITTER: https://twitter.com/artofbombingpod FOLLOW ART OF BOMBING ON FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/artobpodcast/ RIK'S UPCOMING LIVE PUBLIC APPEARANCES June 15, 19 | July 13, 17, 27 | 6:ooPM TBN Studios Hendersonville, TN(Just North of Nashville) Tickets are FREE but must be reserved. Tickets for HUCKABEE in Hendersonville from ShowClix https://www.showclix.com/event/huckabee REQUESTING TICKETS. All available live taping dates for the HUCKABEEshow are listed on the calendar as they are confirmed one month out. Please choose the taping date you are interested in and follow the prompts. If the date you choose is already at capacity, feel free to enter as standby or choose a future date.
Today I am joined by former School of Laughs students and full time comedians Jonnie W.and Brian Bates. Over some tasty BBQ we discuss the recent happenings in the world of comedy. Specifically, Michelle Wolfe and the White House Correspondents Dinner, Netflix Comedy Specials and the passing of a fellow comedian. THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY PATREON SUPPORTER NEIL RITTLEAND THE CLEAN COMEDY CHALLENGE. You would think that an occupation such as comedy would be relatively stress-free. After all, it's all about the laughs, right? Well, sort of yes and sort of no. You see every joke has a target. I could be the traffic, the drivers, the car or the police. Sometimes, the comedian hits on a target and the reaction is bigger than the joke. Or, even an unintended response from a misinterpreted punch line. Other times, the comedian is challenged for not being "sensitive" or "politically correct" with their material. Despite freedom of speech, as comedian is not free form judgement. In today's world, we are quick to celebrate the mistakes of others. Comedy is no different. It makes it hard for the comedian to do their job when every word is picked apart and mass distributed over a network of trigger-happy-texters and social media rabble-rousers. What is a comic to do? The three of us share our takes on Michelle Wolfe and the 2018 White House Correspondents Dinner roast. The good, bad and ugly as well as the reaction, opportunity and results. Also on the agenda is a quick discussion about the proliferation of NETFLIXcomedy specials. Is having so many specials good or bad for the comedy marketplace? Are great comedians putting out subpar specials just to grab a handful of cash? Am I only mad because I don't have a NETFLIX special? And, finally, we talk about the long-lasting feeling of connection to other comedians. When one of our own passes away, we feel like we just saw them yesterday. But, we may not have worked with or talked to them in over a decade. What is it about the brotherhood and sisterhood of comedy that connects us? All of this and more in this episode of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs! (C)(P) 2018 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED SCHOOL OF LAUGHS WWW.SCHOOLOFLAUGHS.COM
You better grab a pen and get ready to take some notes. This episode is like a mini-business course with comedian Kenn Kington. Kenn spent early years as a sales person for a Fortune 500 company. When he ventured into comedy he took that same work ethic and created a career that now spans over 30 years. Beginning by producing his own Incredible Ultimate Date Night Comedy Events at churches across the country, Kenn finds a need and solves it. Very few comedians think this way. Instead, most have shows and need someone to solve the problem of an empty calendar. Flipping your mindset into a problem solver will pay dividends every time. Kenn shares with us a lot of tips, including: Meeting his wife after a DVD taping Encountering Tim Hawkins really, really early on Using video to showcase your skill set to buyers Thinking ahead and seeing others Avoiding the bait and switch approach to date nights Duct Tape Date Night conception The value of giving something away A tip he picked up from me for after shows Why you should announce your vision more than you ask for gigs I know you are going to love this episode and probably listen to it more than once. Get to know Kenn through the links below. Kenn Kington Resources List ... KENNWORKS.com Follow Kenn Kington … Website: http://www.kennkington.com Twitter: @KennKington This podcast is a production of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs. All rights reserved. No unauthorized reproduction or use of this podcast is permitted without written consent from Rik Roberts. School of Laughs (c) (p) www.SchoolOfLaughs.com
In this Episode I get to speak with the super funny Brian Bates!! Brian is a comedian from middle Tennessee who started out differently and a little later in life than most comics do and talks about how it all came about and also leaving his full time job and becoming a full time comedian. He also speaks about the importance of Rik Roberts School of Laughs and how Rik was and is still a mentor to him,his 1st open mics,being a "clean" comedian,and lots of other things. Brian is also my 1st guest that i believe is actually depressed by the end of the podcast after i put him through the Questions of Torture and Awesomeness lol but he does survive...kinda. But seriously I really enjoyed getting to know Brian and I think you will enjoy it also..Enjoy!!
On today's show I catch up with Chuck Johnson, CEO of Summit Comedy Inc., in Charlotte, NC. I first net Chuck in the late nineties when he left Comedy Zone and started his own comedy agency. At that time he was doing a little bit of everything from booking one nighters and clubs to managing a handful of comics and pursuing the college comedy market. Over time he has narrowed his focus primarily to the college market. With a few dozen comics on his roster and a firm grip on that scene, Chuck stays very busy. Lucky for us, he took a break for a few minutes to give us an inside look at the College comedy market. He tells us what they are looking for, how he looks for talent and what you can do to get on track to test the waters. This episode is sponsored by Patreon supporter Wayne Fitzpatrick and the Clean Comedy Challenge. Summit Comedy Inc., Show Notes Chuck Johnson attended Appalachian State University in North Carolina. While there he followed his passion and booked bands at a local club. Bands like Dave Matthews and Rusted Root performed on the same bill. He followed up with roughly a three year stint at the Comedy Zone where learned about booking comedians, marketing, promotion and everything comedy business related. In 1998, he went solo and started what is now Summit Comedy Inc., We cover a lot about the college comedy market in this episode! INSIDER TIP SHEET - JOIN THE CLUB! If you love discovering comedy tips like this please consider joining our INSIDER TIP SHEET. Each month you will receive an email with over a dozen links to articles online about stand-up comedy. Also included are blog recaps and articles written by myself or other School Of Laughs friends. Simply send an email to schooloflaughs@gmail.com with "INSIDER TIP SHEET" in the heading and you'll join over 1000 comedians who stay in the loop with top comedy tips and news! This podcast is a production of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs. Any reproduction or use of this information without expressed written consent is strictly prohibited. For more on becoming a more bookable comedian or funnier speaker, please visit www.SchoolOfLaughs.com.
Episode Show Notes jeffsanders.com/211 Learn More About the Show The 5 AM Miracle Podcast Free Productivity Resources Join The 5 AM Club! Connect on Social Media Facebook Group • Instagram • Twitter • LinkedIn Episode Summary Is it possible to be a highly-productive road warrior? In this week's episode of The 5 AM Miracle Podcast I chat with comedian Rik Roberts about his extensive travel schedule and how he manages to stay wildly productive. In the Tip of the Week segment I share how to tackle big creative projects in very short time spans. Resources Mentioned in the Show The 5 AM Miracle Audiobook [Narrated by Jeff Sanders] Rik Roberts [Corporate Entertainer and Keynote Speaker] School of Laughs Course [Learn the art of comedy from Rik Roberts] School of Laughs Podcast [Hosted by Rik Roberts]
Today I talk with Jamison Yoder of the Funny Business Agency in Grand Rapids, MI. Funny Business Agency books comedians in clubs, at colleges and for corporate events. They also coordinate and book all the comedians for the annual LaughFest comedy festival created by Gilda's Club in Grand Rapids, MI every March. Thanks to this week's Patreon Sponsor Sandi Joy Chadwick and the Clean Comedy Challenge! Jamison gives us countless nuggets and endless insights into the booking agency world. We cover a lot of ground, including: How many calls and emails a day an agency receives Working for his father and with his brothers Eric and Michael How far out they book comics in the clubs they support Dr. Grins Comedy Club in the "B.O.B." The myriad of changes that came due to the digital age The evolution of Laugh Fest The Clean Comedy Showcase at Laughfest The process for getting booked at the festival How to get "on the radar" of a booking agency Why a comic's recommendation can be a vital key in your progress Why you might not be your best salesperson How you can eliminate steps and make it easier for the agency to find you How to utilize your local scene as a launching point Why being professional is as important as being funny The #1 thing you need in your promo kit Why a website is more important than a Facebook page Showing that you are working on the web site Tips on making a great corporate video Why focusing on your client is more important than you think The value of relationships How you can lose an agent and much, much (a whole lot) more. This podcast is a production of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs. www.SchoolOfLaughs.com CLUB 52 IS THE ONLY WEEKLY PROGRAM DESIGNED 100% FOR COMEDIANS! "Club 52" is a 52 week, email based stand-up program. It will include a weekly challenge designed to help you become a better comedian. This year long program will feature an email every Friday from me. I will ask you to take a serious look at some of your business practices, writing processes, performance techniques, branding, marketing and a whole lot more. The program starts the week you join and continues for 52 weeks as long as you are still supporting the podcast through Patreon at the $7 a month level. Questions? Email me (Rik) at SchoolOfLaughs@gmail.com. Or call 1-888-895-8549. Or, if you are ready, head on over to www.Patreon.com/SchoolOfLaughs to get started.
Today I talk with CLUB 52 member and PATREON supporter Susan Sussman about setting up your first fundraiser show. Susan is a comedienne from Norfolk, VA who I met through the podcast. She followed through on some of the suggestions I made in THIS BLOG about setting up a show. Then we talked live about the event. And, next I followed up afterwards to see how it went. Thanks to this week's Patreon Sponsor Ron Havens and the Clean Comedy Challenge! Lot's of great info on this episode about setting a comedy show, whether it be your own show or a comedy fundraiser show. We cover a lot of ground, including: How many comics to have on the show How long the comedy show should be Where to set ticket prices Stage, sound and lights set up Expecting the unexpected at a fundraiser show Marketing and advertising Food and beverage Structuring the line up of the show and much, much more. Thanks to this week's Patreon Sponsor Ron Havens and the Clean Comedy Challenge! This podcast is a production of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs. For more information on stand-up comedy classes and posts on how to go about getting the business visit: www.SchoolOfLaughs.com.
Kerri Pomarolli has a diverse background in comedy. With experience in Sketch, TV, Stand-UP and Speaking, she stays open to opportunities in a variety of areas of show business. After moving to L.A. in her early twenties, she soon started to find work in all kinds of areas. Now a mother of two, she continues to bring the laughs and shows no signs of slowing down. Specifically we talk about: Learning improv and sketch with the Groundlings and Second City Appearing in over 25 sketches on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno Being married to a comedian Having her babies on stage (with her) sometimes Working with people ahead of where you are to get better The benefits of groups like CCA and NSA Why you should always be nice to the folks in hair and makeup Taking classes from Judy Carter How feedback from a manager at the Improv helped fuel her drive Advice for beginning comedians Follow Kerri Pomarolli! You can find out a lot more about Kerri Pomarolli on her website: http://www.kerripom.com. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube today! SPONSORS: This episode is brought to you by PATREON SPONSOR BRIAN BATES and by Audible. Visit www.audibletrial.com/schooloflaughs for a free audio download and 3o day trial! OUR SPONSORS "Club 52" is a 52 week, email based stand-up program. It will include a weekly challenge designed to help you become a better comedian. This year long program will feature an email every Friday from me. I will ask you to take a serious look at some of your business practices, writing processes, performance techniques, branding, marketing and a whole lot more. The program starts the week you join and continues for 52 weeks as long as you are still supporting the podcast through Patreon at the $7 a month level. Questions? Email me (Rik) at SchoolOfLaughs@gmail.com. Or call 1-888-895-8549. Or. if you are ready, head on over to www.Patreon.com/SchoolOfLaughs to get started. ========= This podcast is a production of the Rik Roberts School of Laughs. All rights reserved. www.SchoolOfLaughs.com