Podcasts about Second City

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Best podcasts about Second City

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Latest podcast episodes about Second City

Arts Calling Podcast
123. Jim Clayton | Round II: Look Out, a new album!

Arts Calling Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2023 72:04


Weekly shoutout: My Bad Poetry Podcast! Comments and suggestions welcome: Send Jaime a message! -- Hi there, Today I am excited to be arts calling musician Jim Clayton! (jimclaytonjazz.com) About our guest: DownBeat Magazine called Jim Clayton's music “warm, happy, and soulful.” He calls it a blend of bebop and New Orleans, the city he considers a second home. His repertoire is a mix of jazz standards, reimagined pop classics, and his own memorable writing. Jim's last two albums, Lenny Jumps In (2016) and Songs My Daughter Knows (2014) landed on the jazz radio charts in both Canada and the USA. He won three national awards with recording act The Clayton/Scott Group, and his music has been heard internationally on radio, in film, and on television (including Dateline NBC, Keeping Up With The Kardashians, and MTV). Jim spent a decade as a music director with acclaimed theatre company The Second City, entertaining audiences around the globe, from ex-pats in Asia to our troops in Bosnia. He began streaming nightly performances at the start of the pandemic; after over 750 online shows, Jim garnered 30,000 new online followers. LOOK OUT, A NEW ALBUM OUT OCTOBER 3RD: https://jimclaytonjazz.com Thanks for this wonderful conversation, Jim! All the best! -- Arts Calling is produced by Jaime Alejandro (cruzfolio.com). If you like the show: leave a review, or share it with someone who's starting their creative journey! Your support truly makes a difference! Go make a dent. Much love, j https://artscalling.com

John Williams
The Mincing Rascals Live from The Second City 9.27.23: Migrant housing, end of cash bail, Senator Menendez, and more!

John Williams

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2023


This week’s Mincing Rascals was recorded in front of a live audience at The Second City on Tuesday, 9/26/23! Check out the photos here! The Mincing Rascals for this special show are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ […]

The Mincing Rascals
The Mincing Rascals Live from The Second City 9.27.23: Migrant housing, end of cash bail, Senator Menendez, and more!

The Mincing Rascals

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2023


This week’s Mincing Rascals was recorded in front of a live audience at The Second City on Tuesday, 9/26/23! Check out the photos here! The Mincing Rascals for this special show are John Williams of WGN Radio, Eric Zorn, Publisher of The Picayune Sentinel, Jon Hansen of WGN Radio and Block Club Chicago, Brandon Pope, host of ‘On the Block‘ […]

Finding Mastery
How Improv Can Level Up Our Creativity, Connection and Leadership | Kelly Leonard, VP of The Second City

Finding Mastery

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2023 90:09


Could improv comedy be the key to unlocking human potential?Our guest today isn't just tossing around this idea—he's used the alchemy of the improv stage to forge groundbreaking strategies that are sure to ripple through business, sport, and life itself.Let's set the stage for Kelly Leonard. His title—Vice President of Creative Strategy, Innovation, and Business Development—only begins to capture his role at The Second City. And this isn't just any theater. It's a global comedy powerhouse that gave us legends like Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler, to name a few. Yet the improv stage is merely a starting point for Kelly's broader mission. He's on an epic journey to inspire and empower people to use improvisation as a tool for positive change and growth. Kelly's best-selling book, 'Yes, And,' and a pioneering partnership with the University of Chicago reflect this mission—bridging behavioral science with the principles of improv.I love how Kelly offers us unconventional wisdom on reframing challenges, daring to risk, and savoring the present moment in all its unpredictability.And our conversation goes deep. We explore thoughtful leadership, building a culture that unlocks radical creativity, tools to deepen relationships and even some remarkably profound ways to approach grief.So, if you're leading a team, wanting to live fiercely in the now, or simply searching for a fresh lens on life's curveballs, this is one episode you won't want to miss.-----WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.Connect with us on our Instagram.For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.To check out our exclusive sponsor deals and discounts CLICK HERE!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast
129. What is a Fractional CMO? with Aimee Schuster

Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2023 37:16


Founders: this one is for you!   Today, Michelle is joined by seasoned marketing expert, Aimee Schuster. Together, they dive into juicy subjects, from the power of AI tools in streamlining business processes to the value of in-person interactions in building lasting relationships. Aimee shares insights on being a fractional employee, sales methodologies, and the importance of scalability in sales.   Aimee Schuster is an expert at marketing the invisible, having spent the last twenty-five years supporting B2B organizations like Miller Heiman Group, DLA Piper and Homefinder.com build, advance and energize their lead generation programs. Aimee founded Bandwidth Strategy, a fractional CMO and COO consultancy, to help growth-stage organizations drive the right leads into the funnel that result in closed-won business. Aimee uses her experience and a bit of humor and improv (honed as a student at Second City) to create a common language among the all-too-often warring factions of sales and marketing. A go-to voice on sales-marketing alignment and workplace equity, her work has been featured in Fast Company and Business Insider.   Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and practical advice for navigating the ever-evolving business landscape!   ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: What is a fractional CMO? What is "selling the invisible"? Different stages of marketing funnel for organizations The value of SEO and sales methodologies Top struggles working with founders: AI's impact in the job market Scaling your business beyond yourself Trends in workplace cultures Benefits of working in-person Sources that inspire Aimee's work ----------------------- RESOURCES: Read The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber Read Built to Sell by John Warrillow   ----------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Aimee and her incredible insights on marketing you can follow her on LinkedIn, @AimeeHSchuster website, bandwidthstrategy.com. ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok   ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee!   ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free atwww.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

There It Is
No. 320 - Comedy Shop Talk: WGA Strike, Hasan Minhaj's Emotional Truths, Russell Brand, & More

There It Is

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2023 39:17


This episode is also our first on-camera video episode, which you can watch on our YouTube: @ThereItIs! Jason and (Fiancée of the Show) Justina talk a little comedy shop! They chat about the last round of negotiations in the WGA strike (right before they negotiated a tentative deal), the potential impact of the upcoming arrival of Second City to New York City as well as UCB reopening, and about some controversies in the comedy world like the Tonight Show, Russell Brand, and Hasan Minhaj exposés. We primarily discuss the idea of "emotional truths" in comedy. Twitter: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis Sources: WGA Strike: https://deadline.com/2023/09/writers-strike-deal-wga-studios-1235551531/ Drew Barrymore: https://www.vox.com/culture/2023/9/19/23880858/drew-barrymore-show-writers-strike-backlash-apology Bill Maher: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/comedian-bill-maher-postpones-real-time-show-return-writer-talks-resume-2023-09-18 Tonight Show: https://www.rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-features/jimmy-fallon-tonight-show-toxic-work-environment-crying-rooms-nbc-1234819421/ Russell Brand: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/russell-brand-rape-sexual-assault-abuse-allegations-investigation-v5hxdlmb6?utm Hasan Minhaj: https://www.newyorker.com/news/annals-of-communications/hasan-minhajs-emotional-truths

Grown Dad Business with Aaron Kleiber
Every Job I Ever Had: Part 2 | ep. 220 #GrownDadBusiness with Aaron Kleiber

Grown Dad Business with Aaron Kleiber

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2023 26:50


Part 2! We don't wanna bore you at the car or at work.. we keep 'e, bite size!  || How did all the jobs you've ever had prepare you for NOW? Laugh our way thru every job Aaron has ever had - learn anything? or just good stories? Little a both. Listen & Subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts! || FollowFollow on FB/IG/Tk/Yt @AaronKleiber @GrownDadBusiness info, events, business inquiries http://linktr.ee/AaronKleiber -- Find the EARLY VIDEO, AUDIO & STANDUP on Patreon! Please consider supporting monthly at Patreon.com/AaronKleiber  subscribe, just like Netflix, to your fave creative people AND get exclusive content - Patreon/com/AaronKleiber -- *Aaron's Amazon Comedy Special 'Grown @%$ Dad' is NOW streaming on YouTube! Audio album available on iTunes, Spotify, Pandora, IHeartRadio AND SiriusXM! -- #GrownDadBusiness podcast with Aaron Kleiber It's comedy, it's a podcast, it's a vibe. Aaron Kleiber — comedian, actor, proud husband and father of three — hangs with funny n creative friends talm'bout comedy, parenting, food, culture, movies/tv, sharing stories and experiences. 200+ episodes EVERYWHERE you listen to podcasts - please subscribe to them all! Title Instrumental theme ""King for a Day"" by Passion HiFi @Passion_HiFi http://EvilTwinRecords.com Produced/Edited by Aaron Kleiber; with Sam Sprunger of Lounge Media Group copyright 2023 Aaron Kleiber -- Aaron Kleiber has been entertaining his entire life — from climbing atop his grandmother's coffee table as a child and being voted class clown at Steel Valley High School - to playing make-believe in front of a camera or taking the stage at comedy clubs across North America today. Aaron began his entertainment career producing, performing & writing sketch comedy, award-winning short films at Steel Valley High School in Homestead, PA with friend Chris Preksta (Mercury Men, Echo Torch, Pittsburgh Dad) - graduating to independently produced feature films, 'Captain Blasto' and 'A Great Disturbance' , garnering dozens of film festival awards and appearances. A short stint of ala carte classes at Second City, Chicago later and the birth of his first daughter, made a permanent home in Pittsburgh and try the ‘solo sport' of stand-up comedy in 2009. Meanwhile, already adding dozens of memorable commercial credits and roles in major studio films to his performance resume. First touring with Steve-O of Jackass fame and former 'Last Comic Standing' winner, Josh Blue - quickly breaking-out as one of the most in-demand opening acts - touring alongside the likes of Bob Saget, Brad Williams, Jim Breuer, John Witherspoon, Tammy Pescatelli, Bert Kriescher, Ralphie May and Harland Williams.  Aaron made his nationally-televised stand-up comedy debut on 'Gotham Comedy Live' with Jim Breuer, Dean Edwards & Mitch Fatel - which was subsequently  included in the 'Best of Season 2.'  Shortly thereafter making his second appearance on 'Standup and Deliver' NUVO TV, filmed live during the Cabo Comedy Festival at Cabo Wabo, Mexico. Named a top 5 finalist in the Big Sky Comedy Festival, appeared at Gilda's Laugh Fest (Best of the Midwest), San Luis Obisbo SLO Fest, and twice at industry favorite Limestone Comedy Festival. When out west, a regular at the Hollywood Improv, Comedy, Laugh Factory & Magic Club of Hermosa Beach. His comedy podcast with over 200 episodes, ‘Grown Dad Business' has been streamed over A MILLION times, with guests like Bob Saget, Paul Rodriguez, Bobcat Goldtwait, to name a few, and can be heard everywhere you listen to podcasts and now with video streamed on YouTube. ​A culmination of creating entertainment for over two decades, Aaron produced and premiered his own one-hour standup comedy special ""Grown @%$ Dad,"" premiering  on Amazon Prime in 2020, during the height of the pandemic, produced with Animal Studios and directed by Michael Killen of ABC's Downward Dog, reaching millions streaming thereafter. The audio concert album, mastered by Big Science Sound, has a regular rotation on SiriusXM, Pandora, Apple, IHeartRadio, Audacy & Spotify. As a content creator, producer and creative consultant, Aaron has provided an array of creative for non-profits, studios, agencies  and major brands. A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Aaron has been a fixture in the city's booming comedy scene for the last decade - creating and performing hundreds of packed stand-up and variety shows 'Parent's Night Out,' with the Pittsburgh Improv; 'Comedy Sauce' in Bloomfield's Pleasure Bar; and the ever-popular and growing standup gameshow 'Standup Getdown,' at Arcade Comedy Theater, where Aaron served as stand-up programmer for it's first 5 years. Named “Best Local Comedian” by Pittsburgh Magazine, City Paper, local media at least like 5or 6  times. Aaron continues to create, cut grass and collect things he doesn't need in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with his wife Wendy and three children."

Acting Lessons Learned
Unforeseen Actor Success: Scrapping Networking for Community Building

Acting Lessons Learned

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2023 28:18 Transcription Available


Networking is the key to acting success. But what if it terrifies you? Listen to how I learned to redefine networking into community building by joining a mastermind group, training at The Second City and connecting with a rich range of Hollywood Individuals.Also, take a trip down memory lane to my days as a hip-hop dancer in the 90s where my  shyness inhibited me from growing my dance career after performing in LL Cool J's "Around The Way Girl" music video. If you'd Like to SUPPORT the show & Tiwana. Here are 5 simple ways to do so. Follow/Subscribe A ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Rating Write a Kind Review Share an Episode With Your Actor Friends Buy Tiwana a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/TiwanaF Be sure to follow on Instagram as well. @actinglessonslearned @LifebyTiwana Learn more about Tiwana Floyd at https://www.tiwanafloyd.comActing Lessons Learned is Produced, Written, Engineered, and Edited by Tiwana Floyd Music Pixababy "Mesmerized" 15617 & 11492_comamedia

The Ben Maller Show
Hour 4 - Second City Blues

The Ben Maller Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2023 38:17 Transcription Available


Ben Maller talks about the Bears GM claiming that Justin Fields is "not a finger pointer," Bill Belichick praising Jets QB Zach Wilson, DraftKings Round Robin, Coop's Scoop on Entertainment, Sports Jeopardy, and more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Innovation and the Digital Enterprise
Growth-Stage Leadership with Arne Saupe

Innovation and the Digital Enterprise

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2023 28:48


Second City is an iconic Chicago institution training comedic geniuses across generations, but developing the talents of a VP of Technology is one of its more under-the-radar accomplishments. Arne Saupe, Vice President of Technology at Farmer's Fridge, learned more than acting and improvisation when exploring this new arena. He discovered lessons in management, failure, team building, empathy, and communication that bolstered his years of experience as a technologist and growth-stage leader. In this episode, Arne dives into finding complementary team members, ensuring diversity in thought, and balancing the vision with guardrails. He provides clear advice for approaching feedback and determining growth opportunities, including quarterly check-ins to identify what you want to think about the least and recognizing those as areas you likely must improve. (02:11) – Farmer's Fridge and Trunk Club(05:23) – CEO and CFO partnership(09:15) – Investing your time in what you're good at(11:59) – Motivating the team(14:32) – Lessons from improv and acting at Second City(21:07) – Management training(25:01) – Failure and mistakesTechnology leader and team builder Arne Saupe is the Vice President of Technology at Farmer's Fridge. Previously, he served as the Director of Engineering at Trunk Club and led teams at several innovative companies during significant periods of growth. Arne earned a bachelor's degree from Kent State University in computer science.If you'd like to receive new episodes as they're published, please subscribe to Innovation and the Digital Enterprise in Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review in Apple Podcasts. It really helps others find the show.Podcast episode production by Dante32.

Tell Me What Happened
Hannah Rehak, improvasationalist, podcaster, recalls making friends with a girl at a Summer Camp who later revealed that she believed all gay people went to hell.

Tell Me What Happened

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2023 18:59


Hannah Rehak is a comedian, essayist, podcaster and filmmaker. She is the Communications Manager at Not Sorry Productions, an understudy at The Second City, the producer of Material Girls and Gender Playground, and the co-host of Nina, Hannah, and Emily in Paris. Hannah is a proud Chicago Public Schools and Macalester College alum with a background in critical race theory and media and cultural studies. She has spent time in Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Morocco, New York and Chicago working in the performing arts and new media. You can learn more about her and see her work at hannahrehak.com.Tell Me What Happened features the music of Susan Salidor.More information about Susan Salidor can be found at her websiteGet Susan Salidor's One Little Act of Kindness Children's BookGet Susan Salidor's I've Got Peace in My Fingers Children's BookMore Information about other quality publications from our sponsor can be found on Sidelineinkpublishing.comThose interested in recording and saving your laughter for free and forever go to Laughsaver.com

Grown Dad Business with Aaron Kleiber
Every Job I Ever Had: Part 1 | Ep. 219 #GrownDadBusiness with Aaron Kleiber

Grown Dad Business with Aaron Kleiber

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2023 29:58


How did all the jobs you've ever had prepare you for NOW? Laugh our way thru every job Aaron has ever had - learn anything? or just good stories? Little a both. "FollowFollow on FB/IG/Tk/Yt @AaronKleiber @GrownDadBusiness info, events, business inquiries http://linktr.ee/AaronKleiber -- Find the EARLY VIDEO, AUDIO & STANDUP on Patreon! Please consider supporting monthly at Patreon.com/AaronKleiber  subscribe, just like Netflix, to your fave creative people AND get exclusive content - Patreon/com/AaronKleiber -- *Aaron's Amazon Comedy Special 'Grown @%$ Dad' is NOW streaming on YouTube! Audio album available on iTunes, Spotify, Pandora, IHeartRadio AND SiriusXM! -- #GrownDadBusiness podcast with Aaron Kleiber It's comedy, it's a podcast, it's a vibe. Aaron Kleiber — comedian, actor, proud husband and father of three — hangs with funny n creative friends talm'bout comedy, parenting, food, culture, movies/tv, sharing stories and experiences. 200+ episodes EVERYWHERE you listen to podcasts - please subscribe to them all! Title Instrumental theme ""King for a Day"" by Passion HiFi @Passion_HiFi http://EvilTwinRecords.com Produced/Edited by Aaron Kleiber; with Sam Sprunger of Lounge Media Group copyright 2023 Aaron Kleiber -- Aaron Kleiber has been entertaining his entire life — from climbing atop his grandmother's coffee table as a child and being voted class clown at Steel Valley High School - to playing make-believe in front of a camera or taking the stage at comedy clubs across North America today. Aaron began his entertainment career producing, performing & writing sketch comedy, award-winning short films at Steel Valley High School in Homestead, PA with friend Chris Preksta (Mercury Men, Echo Torch, Pittsburgh Dad) - graduating to independently produced feature films, 'Captain Blasto' and 'A Great Disturbance' , garnering dozens of film festival awards and appearances. A short stint of ala carte classes at Second City, Chicago later and the birth of his first daughter, made a permanent home in Pittsburgh and try the ‘solo sport' of stand-up comedy in 2009. Meanwhile, already adding dozens of memorable commercial credits and roles in major studio films to his performance resume. First touring with Steve-O of Jackass fame and former 'Last Comic Standing' winner, Josh Blue - quickly breaking-out as one of the most in-demand opening acts - touring alongside the likes of Bob Saget, Brad Williams, Jim Breuer, John Witherspoon, Tammy Pescatelli, Bert Kriescher, Ralphie May and Harland Williams.  Aaron made his nationally-televised stand-up comedy debut on 'Gotham Comedy Live' with Jim Breuer, Dean Edwards & Mitch Fatel - which was subsequently  included in the 'Best of Season 2.'  Shortly thereafter making his second appearance on 'Standup and Deliver' NUVO TV, filmed live during the Cabo Comedy Festival at Cabo Wabo, Mexico. Named a top 5 finalist in the Big Sky Comedy Festival, appeared at Gilda's Laugh Fest (Best of the Midwest), San Luis Obisbo SLO Fest, and twice at industry favorite Limestone Comedy Festival. When out west, a regular at the Hollywood Improv, Comedy, Laugh Factory & Magic Club of Hermosa Beach. His comedy podcast with over 200 episodes, ‘Grown Dad Business' has been streamed over A MILLION times, with guests like Bob Saget, Paul Rodriguez, Bobcat Goldtwait, to name a few, and can be heard everywhere you listen to podcasts and now with video streamed on YouTube. ​A culmination of creating entertainment for over two decades, Aaron produced and premiered his own one-hour standup comedy special ""Grown @%$ Dad,"" premiering  on Amazon Prime in 2020, during the height of the pandemic, produced with Animal Studios and directed by Michael Killen of ABC's Downward Dog, reaching millions streaming thereafter. The audio concert album, mastered by Big Science Sound, has a regular rotation on SiriusXM, Pandora, Apple, IHeartRadio, Audacy & Spotify. As a content creator, producer and creative consultant, Aaron has provided an array of creative for non-profits, studios, agencies  and major brands. A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Aaron has been a fixture in the city's booming comedy scene for the last decade - creating and performing hundreds of packed stand-up and variety shows 'Parent's Night Out,' with the Pittsburgh Improv; 'Comedy Sauce' in Bloomfield's Pleasure Bar; and the ever-popular and growing standup gameshow 'Standup Getdown,' at Arcade Comedy Theater, where Aaron served as stand-up programmer for it's first 5 years. Named “Best Local Comedian” by Pittsburgh Magazine, City Paper, local media at least like 5or 6  times. Aaron continues to create, cut grass and collect things he doesn't need in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with his wife Wendy and three children."

WGN - The John Williams Uncut Podcast
Second City's Kelly Leonard on the benefits of failure

WGN - The John Williams Uncut Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2023


Kelly Leonard, Vice President, Creative Strategy, Innovation and Business Development at The Second City and host of the “Getting to Yes, And…” podcast, joins John Williams to talk about his recent chat with Harvard professor Amy Edmondson about her new book “The Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well.” Kelly explains how people […]

WGN - The John Williams Full Show Podcast
Second City's Kelly Leonard on the benefits of failure

WGN - The John Williams Full Show Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2023


Kelly Leonard, Vice President, Creative Strategy, Innovation and Business Development at The Second City and host of the “Getting to Yes, And…” podcast, joins John Williams to talk about his recent chat with Harvard professor Amy Edmondson about her new book “The Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well.” Kelly explains how people […]

John Williams
Second City's Kelly Leonard on the benefits of failure

John Williams

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2023


Kelly Leonard, Vice President, Creative Strategy, Innovation and Business Development at The Second City and host of the “Getting to Yes, And…” podcast, joins John Williams to talk about his recent chat with Harvard professor Amy Edmondson about her new book “The Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well.” Kelly explains how people […]

Strangers on the Internet
Special: Exclusive Interview with Comedian Allison Goldberg

Strangers on the Internet

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2023 60:18


Comedian Allison (Alli) Goldberg is on a mission to make dating fun again. Once named one of the top 10 funniest women in NYC by Time Out NY, the now-Los Angeles based performer delights her public both on the stage and on the air. A friend of previous SOTI podcast guest Talia Lerner, Alli tells Irina and Michelle why dating provides such fertile material for her work from her matchmaking live comedy show "Love Isn't Blind" to her "How to Break up by Text" performances (the latter will soon be released as an audio show with celebrities reading the texts out loud and experts analyzing them!). Come hear how Alli's worst online date ever was with a fellow Yalie who was in the middle of convincing his former lover to have an abortion, why it's tricky to find the right male contestants for her matchmaking show, and what her philosophy is to overcome fears about any creative endeavor. Allison Goldberg's profileAlli's IGAlli's TikTok "Love Isn't Blind" show"How to Break up by Text" showAlli's podcast "2 Girls, 1 Podcast"Related SOTI episodes:SOTI ep. 21: Second Marriage in the Second City with Prof. Talia Lerner and Phillip NightingaleSOTI ep. 18 & ep. 19: Exclusive Interview with Bestselling Author Nancy Jo Sales (Part 1 & Part 2)SOTI ep. 35: Evolving out of the Man Box with Dr. John Schinnerer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caropop
Jane Lynch

Caropop

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2023 57:06


The first time I saw Jane Lynch, she was playing Carol Brady on stage in Chicago in Real Live Brady Bunch, but you're more likely to know her from Glee or The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel or Hollywood Game Night or The 40 Year Old Virgin or Best in Show or Funny Girl on Broadway or…the list goes on. She's a quick-witted improviser, a hard-working performer, a five-time Emmy winner and, as you'll hear, a dynamic conversationalist. Did she know she was funny while growing up in the Chicago south suburb of Dolton? Did she have a positive experience at Second City? Does she prefer improvising or working with a script? What was her "white hot ambition"? How important is projecting confidence? And why and how is she so busy? You'll listen with glee...

Uncommon Convos
Matt Garard | Season 01 | Episode 014

Uncommon Convos

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2023 84:33


SummaryMatt Garard talks about his career in theater, working in standup and improv comedy, and his current stint with Thunder Bulge in this weeks podcast episode. In This EpisodeWhen and why Matt started to performWhy Matt turned down a scholarship for theaterMatt's work with Comedy SportsWorking in a murder mystery showWinning The World Comedy ChampionshipsThe difference between standup comedy and improvHow to handle hecklers while doing comedyHow Matt got into teaching Junior Theater classesWorking in long-form improv in ChicagoLearning at Second City Conservatory with improv legendsGilda's Club, a cancer support organization named after Gilda Radner, an American comedian who got her start in Second City and eventually went on to star on SNL, ensures that people impacted by cancer have the knowledge and community that they need. If you'd like to support Gilda's Club, you can donate here: https://www.gildasclubchicago.org/donateTouring with Mission Improvable and working in edutainmentHow to get out of not having professional headshotsPlaying clean vs. going blueWorking shows behind-the-scenes to learn that end of the businessWorking with Thunder Bulge to promote body positivity and comedyThunder Bulge on the Gong ShowAuditioning for America's Got TalentGetting kicked out of a bridal conventionDoing virtual events during the pandemicShout out to Lance Bass, and getting Thunder Bulge to perform at RageStarting Rose Entertainment group while doing shows and planning a weddingMatt's comedic and theatric heroes that propelled his careerMatt's best advice to aspiring actors and comediansCheck out Matt's show: https://thunderbulge.com

Second City Works presents
Getting to Yes And… | Jeffrey Sweet – ‘Something Wonderful Right Away'

Second City Works presents "Getting to Yes, And" on WGN Plus

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2023


Kelly sits down with playwright and author Jeffrey Sweet to discuss the new edition of his legendary book “Something Wonderful Right Away,” an oral history of The Second City.

The Official Fantasy Premier League Podcast
S6 Ep7: FPL Pod: Trying to predict Pep Guardiola

The Official Fantasy Premier League Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2023 43:49


Pep roulette is already proving tricky to guess but Kelly Somers and the FPL Pod team are here to help with Man City options

Permission to Kick Ass
Mike Lukas: Finding the Funny in Business (and Life)

Permission to Kick Ass

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2023 52:06


Ever feel like you're stuck on the world's wonkiest roller coaster? Being neurodivergent in business is kinda like that, especially when everyone else is operating by some sort of “rulebook” we haven't been given access to. If you've been feeling like everything you do is wrong and you're screwing things up beyond repair, you're going to like this one. Mike and I dive deep into navigating life with neurodivergence, turning facepalms into high-fives, and embracing your true self so you can show the world what you're made of.Can't-Miss Moments From This Episode: What if we're all just winging it? What could you achieve if you embraced the idea that everything's made up and the points don't matter? Mike and I dive deep on breaking free from Impostor Syndrome… Time to flip the script on failure: we've all been there. Now that we've established that, time to shake it off and get down to business. Mike and I will walk you through how to transform your personal disasters into stepping stones to your Next Big Thing.   Let's just go ahead and set the idea of “perfection” on fire, here and now. Mike and I will show you how to step into the spotlight, flaws and all, and watch the magic unfold. Consider this: if you're not happy where you're at, maybe it's time to mix things up. The universe might just be sending you a sign – are you catching them or burying your head in the sand? Mike and I reveal how setbacks can become signposts steering you in the right direction… We've all heard about knowing where you're going, and that without a destination any road will do. So what does that mean for YOU? Mike and I break down what it looks like when you've become your OWN roadblock, and how to clear the mess so you can move forward…  This one is jam-packed full of advice. Don't miss out - listen now!Mike's Bio:Mike Lukas grew up in Cleveland and was a successful internationally touring comedian and improvisor (NBC, Comedy Central, Second City, CBS Radio, A&E) for twenty-four years before he decided to hang up his clown shoes and give writing a full time go.A graduate of his own Million Words Challenge and the University of Dayton as well as the training programs at the Second City and iO Theaters in Chicago, Mike is ready to talk comedy with anyone willing to engage in such silliness.The first book of his FUNNY MUSCLE humor writing series will be available in mid-May.Be sure to enter your name and email below to join the free waitlist and to get your free giveaways.Raised a Browns fan in Cleveland, Mike graduated from the University of Dayton with honors in 1987.Foregoing a rising corporate computing career, Mike spent the next two-and-a-half decades writing, performing, and improvising comedy around the world:Multiple national TV, radio, and comedy festival appearancesNBC's Tonight Show with Jay Leno (2)NBC's Late Night with Conan O'Brien (2)CBS RadioMontreal Comedy FestivalChicago Comedy FestivalAspen Comedy FestivalNational headliner at America's top comedy clubsHosted and co-write The Straight Dope on A&EUnderstudy for The Second City's mainstage in Chicago.Cast member of The Second City's mainstage in Las Vegas and National Touring CompanyCo-hosted and produced Crackin' Up on CBS Radio in Los AngelesNow hammering his keyboard out of Dallas, Mike co-raises his two babies when he's not pumping out twisted short stories, novels, and non-fiction books that unlock the secrets of the universe.And lots of fart jokes. Not for him, for the kids. Mike hates those. The jokes, not the kids.Ahem.He's a frequent podcast guest and circuit lecturer (if you count his driveway), and Mike can't wait to share his latest stories and theories with you if you'd only ask.Mike's upcoming ‘Communicate in Third-Person‘ workshop will be taught by me.Resources and links mentioned:Mike's WebsiteFinding your funny muscle bookMike on FacebookCome kick ass with me:Permission to Kick Ass websiteAngie's Facebook PageAngie on InstaAngie on YouTubeIf you dig the show and want to be part of bringing more awesome episodes to the world, consider buying a coffee for the production team

Life Happens Laugh Anyway
Episode 139 Doreen Went to the Hospital

Life Happens Laugh Anyway

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2023 12:20


Hey Humor Consumers, ***ATTENTION: Help spread the word to all near Holland, Michigan*** Join me for some LIVE comedy fun on Thursday, September 28, 2023. "Not Biologically Dutch" is what we are calling this 90-minute endeavor (because I married a Dutch man and Holland Michigan is crawling with Wooden Shoes. ;0). Grab tickets here: https://tracydegraaf.com/events Now, back to episode 139 "Doreen Went to the Hospital" Friends, It's Tracy here. Cat is really going through a stressful time. Her mom, Doreen, a 79-year-old beautiful British (and also American) soul who has Alzheimer's disease got Covid and was hospitalized. It was very traumatic for Doreen and for Cathrine and her sister Wendy too.  She is ok. Doreen got out of the hospital yesterday and is staying with Cathrine and her husband Kenny until she recovers enough to go back to Wendy's. And now.....Cat has Covid too. Dang Covid. I'm sure we are all sick of it. Literally. This week's episode is short and sweet. We had to use some "new to us" tech and I thought I was capturing video too, but that didn't work. At least we have some audio. Cat explains just how tough it was for her mom. She was scared, confused, frustrated, tired, and on top of all of that she had Covid. Booooo. Friends, if any of you are going through a health journey with an elderly loved one, our hearts go out to you all. I've been there with my dad prior to his death in 2019 and with my mom 30 years ago. She wasn't elderly, but the whole process was just hard. Just know that we love you all. We believe in Jesus and kindness. Let's go spread some. Keep Doreen in your prayers as she gets her strength back up. Pray for Cat as she cares for her.  Love, Tracy and Cathrine P.S. Cat had to GO cuz Doreen had to GO. ;0) So we closed in a rush. Sorry. Hopefully all will be better next time. ***P.S. Help us grow the podcast*** Give feedback. Let us know what topics you would like us to cover. We did a brain dump a few months ago and we were all proud of our ideas, but now we look back on some of the topics we came up with and

There It Is
No. 316 - BCC's Artistic Director Philip Markle Makes Improv More Playful

There It Is

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 52:15


Brooklyn Comedy Collective Artistic Director and performer, Philip Markle, joined us for a great talk! Philip Markle has performed all over the place! He studied in Chicago at iO, Second City, and also at The Annoyance which had a huge impact on him. He talks about performing improv on a cruise ship, musical theater and improv, Philip Sparkle, getting burned out and stepping away from running an improv theater for a bit, the heart and purpose behind starting the Brooklyn Comedy Collective, and he shares a lot of wisdom on improv! It's a super fun chat and especially a great listen if you feel stuck in your improv journey. http://brooklyncomedy.com Look up Philip Sparkle on Spotify for his musical comedy Instagram: @PhilipSparkle, @ComedyBrooklyn, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics TikTok: @PhilipSparkle, @ComedyBrooklyn, @JasonFarrToks Twitter: @PhilipSparkle, @ComedyBrooklyn, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrJokes Facebook: @PhilipSparkle, @ThereItIsPod Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

NoseyAF Podcast
Comedy as Practice and Purpose w/ Christina Anthony

NoseyAF Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 73:07


Christina Anthony is a multi-talented actress, writer, vocalist, and improviser. She is originally from the Chicago comedy scene and is best known as an emeritus company member of Playmakers Lab after teaching creative writing throughout Chicago Public Schools to countless students. Christina is also an alum of the Second City e.t.c. Chicago where she co-wrote three award-nominated sketch revues and performed thousands of shows for Chicago audiences. Most recently, Christina was a series regular on the ABC Black-ish spinoff Mixed-ish and starred opposite Kristen Bell in the Netflix dark comedy series The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window. This spring, she made the move to NBC to appear in a lead role in Non-Evil Twin, a sitcom pilot created and starring Amber Ruffin. In this episode of the Nosey AF Podcast, host Stephanie Graham sits down with her good friend and multi-talented comedian, Christina Anthony. They dive into the different worlds of comedy, from stand-up to improv, and discuss the importance of conserving energy and finding support within the artistic community. Christina shares her journey into comedy and reflects on the innate humor that has always been a part of her. Get ready for a hilarious and insightful conversation with this talented comedian. Follow Christina on Instagram  Connect with me on the social meeds!! Follow me on: Instagram See my art, photography, and films at www.missgraham.com Check out our website at www.noseyaf.com   Thanks to Amanda at Cassiopeia Studio for producing this episode  

Second City Works presents
Getting to Yes And… | Mike Lukas – ‘Finding Your Funny Muscle'

Second City Works presents "Getting to Yes, And" on WGN Plus

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023


Kelly reconnects with Second City alum Mike Lukas to talk about his new book, “Finding Your Funny Muscle: How to Create Laughs Like a Pro.” “A good laugh can feel better than sex on drugs in a rock and roll hot tub.” “Bottom line, humor isn't some obscure concept that only the chosen few can master.”  “Shared pain makes us […]

The Rage and Pillage Podcast
#118: This Guy Even Comes Slow (feat. Scott Holt and Max ABV)

The Rage and Pillage Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2023 86:04


Scott is a stand up comedian, entertainer, prankster, and graduate of Second City in Hollywood. Performed from NYC, LA, Barcelona, and Hong Kong. Max ABV is the host of the Drink O'clock Podcast. He interviews very interesting people weekly. Follow them on Social Media! Scott Holt: @ballsyholt Rob: @Max _ABV Rage and Pillage Hotline: (872)228-RAP3 Call and leave a message (or jerk off) Rage and Pillage merchandise is available! Rate and Review on Apple Podcasts and Rate on Spotify! FOLLOW THE WHOLE SHOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA! Rage and Pillage @rageandpillagepod Burley @Burley_Rage

Finding Favorites with Leah Jones
Ronnie Raviv only dabbles

Finding Favorites with Leah Jones

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2023 73:13


Ronnie Raviv joined Leah to try and figure out if he has any favorite things. We talk about cocktails, cocktail bars, books, TV, great meals and our friendship origin story. For someone who claims to have no favorite things, there was no lacking in conversation. Like my beloved Zouks, Ronnie is not on twitter. Show Notes Second City Conservatory  Quipfire Improv  Sally Albright Chicken Pot Pie origin story  Mexican Mule Journeyman White Whiskey Jasper Fforde  OCD TLV Taizu  Fantastic TLV  Shades of Grey by Jasper Fforde Blind Barber Duck Duck Goat Aviary Rosemary Tango Sur Bar Roma Frasca Monte Verde Dear Margaret  Yom Tov Deli (Tel Aviv) Harry's Epic Israel Food Tours Transcript follows Ronnie Raviv  0:00   Hello, my name is Ronnie Raviv. And I don't think I really have favorite things, but I have a lot of things that I like a lot, and you can hear all about them. In this week's finding favorites. ----more---- Announcer  0:10   Welcome to the findings favorites Podcast where we explore your favorite things without using an algorithm. Here's your host, Leah Jones. Leah Jones  0:23   Hello, and welcome to finding favorites. I'm your host, Leah Jones. It's Sunday, August 27. Really a beautiful, perfect day in Chicago after that brutal heatwave earlier in the week. Nice to have the windows open and to eat dinner outside today. Not too much to report other than my shoulder MRI shows a what seems to be a completely boring, small rotator rotator cuff tear. So hopefully, I will have some resolution to my shoulder pain soon. The orthopedist I saw last week said shit your shoulder is jacked. Which I think is sports for let's take this injury seriously. This week on the podcast I am talking with my one of my very dear friends Ronnie Raviv. You have heard about him on the podcast for years because he kept me company during a lot of chemo therapies and steroid Saturdays. We went to Israel on overlapping trips recently, so we just had that fabulous dinner in Tel Aviv. We talked about that a little bit. So I twisted his arm and said, Come be on a podcast. Now he does not listen to podcasts. He's not a he's not into the audio medium of podcasting. So I don't know if he will ever listen to this. But we have a fun conversation. Just sitting around bullshitting on the couch for an hour or so. And hit record. So without further ado, wear your mask. Wash your hands. Get your booster. I know a new booster is coming out soon. So I guess, wear your mask more diligently while you wait for the new booster to be available. And keep enjoying your favorite things. Leah Jones  2:43   Hello, and welcome to finding favorites. I'm your host, Leah Jones. And this is the podcast where we learn about people's favorite things and get recommendations without using an algorithm. Today I'm joined a rare in person interview for finding favorites. With my own personal algorithm. You do all the research that wire cutter doesn't do for me. So I don't have to do it. Yeah. What do we just found out recently? You didn't know what wire cutter Ronnie Raviv  3:08   was? No, I had no idea. You introduced me to wire cutter. Leah Jones  3:11   Right. So wire cutter is consumer a modern consumer reports. Yeah, basically. And then anytime I need a new phone. You are my Consumer Reports. Ronnie Raviv  3:23   Yeah, I would just from like the one article that I read or the one article with all the links to the other articles that I read. It it I wouldn't describe it necessarily as the modern consumer reports. I would describe it as the less nerdy Consumer Reports. So let's let's charts and figures and more. Recommendations. Leah Jones  3:49   Yes. Ronnie Raviv  3:50   It's a curated fair Consumer Reports. Leah Jones  3:57   I'm fine with him doing all the research for me. Sure. Because I am too lazy. Yeah, I would rather buy it. It'd be the wrong thing. Never return it and buy another thing. I wouldn't rather that but that's more likely how my life goes, Ronnie Raviv  4:10   right? Yeah, no, I'd much rather would buy the right thing to begin with. Leah Jones  4:14   Yes. Right. Which is why every two years when I'm a Verizon, it's time to buy a new phone. I call you with no warning. And I'm like, What phone am I buying today? Right. I've done that for 15 years, at least. Once I went away from my Blackberry, Ronnie Raviv  4:29   which I think we're all happy for. Leah Jones  4:31   Yeah. So Ronnie, usually, this is when so this is like the time of the podcast where people get to know the guest. And often we're I'm getting to know the guests because usually they are a complete stranger. Right? And you're not No, Ronnie Raviv  4:48   no, we've known each other for I was trying to do the math. I feel like 21 or 22 years we've known each other. Yeah. And we've known each other well, for maybe 18 years. Yeah, we know each other very well for 15 years. Yeah, maybe that's I think Leah Jones  5:06   that's about right. I moved here in Memorial Day 2002. Okay. And started going to open mics immediately. Yeah. And very quickly. Got to the tequila Roadhouse. RIP, RIP tequila Roadhouse and Ronnie Raviv  5:25   their crack fries. Yeah, they were surprised that were I don't know what they put on. There were so bad. Leah Jones  5:33   Well, there was my cousin's Friend's Boyfriend maybe wasn't conservatory with you? I don't remember. Okay. I think he was Greek. Okay, or he had a friend and I don't remember. Somehow I want to but one of your conservatory shows Ronnie Raviv  5:55   site. Yes. Second City conservatory Right. Leah Jones  6:00   Which quickly led to tequila Roadhouse. Yes. Ronnie Raviv  6:03   Because my many of the people I would go into group and that improv group, not only did stuff but also held an open mic. First tequila Roadhouse, then they went to Weiss fools. Yep. Neither of which are around because this is over 20 years ago. Leah Jones  6:19   Yeah. So it was a mixed bag. Open Mic. Yes. Very. So I did stand up comedy. And you were reading your as of yet unfinished novel Ronnie Raviv  6:31   as of still yet unfinished novel? Yes. And you would read a chapter a week? Yes, that was probably the most productive time because I had the actual deadline to like, do the chapter, right. But the way I write I don't outline or plan ahead, I sorta have to get into the, into the fugue state, which means that every time I sit down and write I don't necessarily remember what it was that I wrote, because I'm in a bit of a fugue state, right. And that's generally how I read books as well. I don't remember things after I just sort of get the good feeling. Yeah. And so I, so now it's just become this daunting mountain, because as the chapters pile up, every time I sit down, I have to read the whole thing to get into that flow. And it's just like, you know, if I have an hour to write, that's all well and good, but it'll take me like three or four hours just to read the thing to like, get into the meat into you know, and I don't have three or four. Let's be honest, I probably do. I just don't have the, Leah Jones  7:28   you don't have it set aside. You haven't scheduled in, right. Reread the novel, Ronnie Raviv  7:33   right? Before I read a new chapter, right? You know, so I'll like read, I like spend three hours rereading it to the right, a few pages. And then the next day, I have to like, reread a bunch to get into, this doesn't really happen. Maybe one of these days, I'll outline what I actually want to have happen. And that will help spur me on to like, Oh, now I need to read. Now I need to write this thing that happens. But I don't even know what will happen. It just sort of happens as it happens. Yeah. That's why I always wrote short stories when I was in college. Yeah, Leah Jones  8:06   I was gonna say maybe your short story guy. Ronnie Raviv  8:08   I am. But I don't like I want to write a novel. Yeah. I like I'm better suited for short stories. It's the same. It's the same thing with improv. Like, I did improv in college and we did short form improv improv games. And then and that's what I was good at, because I'm like, I'm good at that kind of quick joke thing. And then I went through the conservatory program at Second City, after many different things like twists and turns of my life and then ended up there. And I appreciate improv long form. Improv is an art form. And I sort of denigrate short form improv is just gimmicky, right? And so I don't like the short form improv as much. But that's the thing I'm better at I'm not good at the long form. So now I can't really do improv because the thing that I like, I'm not as good at writing that I I'm better at I don't like as much right. Leah Jones  9:01   But do you have? When's the last time you I don't I've never I don't think I've ever seen you do short form improv. I've seen you do sketch. Yeah. No, you haven't because I don't even know if I've ever seen you do long form improv. You have. Ronnie Raviv  9:13   I think, Okay, what if you? Well, I guess no, because it's because the seconds are the conservatory shows were more your sketch. They were born they were born out of improv to do with the improv in the class. And there was, there was a certain amount of improv, improvising on the stage. Like we make beats, we didn't have anything written out. Right. Sketches weren't, weren't scripted. But we sort of knew what was going to happen. A little more like, Curb Your Enthusiasm type. Leah Jones  9:37   I remember I guess I mostly remember your musical numbers. Yeah. White people brown line. Yes. Ronnie Raviv  9:43   I did not write that one. No, Leah Jones  9:45   but somebody asked you that you look at your watch. And somebody asks you the time and you were like, I don't know what time it is. And you put your hand down. Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  9:54   You have more memory than I do. Leah Jones  9:56   I think because of the time I lived on the brow, I took the brown line about Each and every time I get on the Brown Line, I would think about the song. Yeah. So Ronnie Raviv  10:04   yeah, no white people brown line. That was that was a brilliant piece of work. I did a song that was a parody of modern gender. Yeah. That was a mouthful. It was like a victim of the new new economy or something, which at this point is like, three economies ago. Because this was in the early aughts. Yeah. It's been awhile. It's been a lifetime. It's been so long. So yeah, so the last time I did improv, I think is when my undergrad improv group. This is pre pandemic came through Chicago, they would come through Chicago, New York or LA. So every three years it comes to Chicago. And then they, they they did a little show to basically no audience is just really for us. Yeah. And then they called on the alums to come. And I thought they were gonna just kind of, we were just gonna do a quick little scene, like what we would do at reunion is like a world's worst. I like my women or men, like I like my blank or whatever. Yeah. But no, they then said, Okay, now you're going to do now, all the alarms now you're going to do a long form improv. Which, so when I was going through that group, it's called quickfire? Yeah. When I was going through it, we only did short form improv, right? Leah Jones  11:21   Because it was before UCB. It was before the Herald had New York. Ronnie Raviv  11:25   Yeah, this was this was in the mid in the early mid 90s. So we only did short form improv. And so the only reason I even knew like, luckily for me, I had gone through the second city experience. So I had had experience with long form, right. But so this was in I think, 2017. Okay. And my last experience with long form improv was in 2002. Yeah. So, and I was by far the oldest alarm there. The next oldest alarm was from the class of 2009. Okay, so the next oldest alarm was sort of complaining that they hadn't done improv in a while. had done it at like at that point. quickfire had done long form improv when they were in school. And so they had last done in 2009. You know, I had last done it before they were even in school. Leah Jones  12:22   Right before they were in grade school. Ronnie Raviv  12:25   Not quite that far, but they weren't probably Junior High. Last time I did long form improv, right. And that only by like luck, because previous to Second City, I'd only done short form improv. So I was like, I felt like it was a fish out of water, but somehow didn't. Didn't crap the bed too bad, I guess. I don't know. We did. Okay. It was only for us. So it didn't really matter, right. low stakes, no stakes, stakes improv. Leah Jones  12:50   I did. Eventually I gave in and I did the five classes at annoyance when I was managing the ice cream parlor, right? Because so many lifetimes ago, many, many lifetimes ago. Because I was so tired of people asking me if I did improv, I was like, I do stand up comedy. Sometimes, Ronnie Raviv  13:12   ironically, because literally everybody who does improv their families all assumed that their stand up comedian, right, right. Oh, do some do some stand up comedian comedy Ford's like, that's not what I do. I do improv. Okay. Well then do improv. Right? No, it's a group thing. Right. Stand up here and do improv. Leah Jones  13:27   I know. But you did have me come out once and do stand up comedy. For your parents friends. For Param. Yes, I remember that. Ronnie Raviv  13:37   I wasn't, I don't think you would not have gone without No, I wouldn't you did it. And you were brave. They were they were they were welcoming audience. Leah Jones  13:48   They were welcoming audience. You had Ronnie Raviv  13:52   you had my favorite joke, my favorite Lea joke. But it will have been we don't necessarily have to. Leah Jones  13:58   Was it about the date with a little person? No, I remember that one being Ronnie Raviv  14:02   No, it was the learning Hebrew. Oh, yeah. That you the needle pointed for me. And I still haven't hung but I will in a minute. Yeah. Leah Jones  14:10   Right. So Ronnie helped me. When I was learning the alphabet, the Hebrew alphabet. We would like go to Jack's for chicken potpie. And sometimes I would drag out these giant workbooks and make them help me with Hebrew. And when I had finally gotten really confident that I could like, kind of like know the alphabet in order. I was like, Ronnie, I have learned everything from Alif to Zion, Ronnie Raviv  14:37   which you know, translated from A to Z except it's really more like if you're familiar with the Greek alphabet from alpha to zeta, and that's like the seventh letter. Right? But Leah Jones  14:48   you know, yeah. So I for Ronnie's 40th birthday, I cross stitched him something that said met LF Ronnie Raviv  14:57   Zion Yeah, from A to zeta Right. So essentially, Leah Jones  15:00   right, I've learned everything from A to F. Yeah. Which honestly appropriate. Yeah. Because I had not learned Hebrew from A to Z like, No, probably not. I can. I can't even function anymore. I used to use my Hebrew used to be better, but everybody in English, everybody in Israel's English got way better. And also technology got way better. Ronnie Raviv  15:23   Yes. Not as important anymore. No. But I remember that crowd really liked that joke, right because it was a crowd of Hebrew speakers. Right. So they, they were all right there they that was the that was the crowd. That Leah Jones  15:36   was the only crowd I didn't have to explain the punchline to Yeah, yeah, like we just did here. Right. Ronnie Raviv  15:43   But you know, jokes are always better when you have to explain the punchline. Leah Jones  15:46   Yeah. Right. So I did improv it annoyance. But I've never performed it outside of a class. Ronnie Raviv  15:57   So that's alright. That's fine Leah Jones  15:58   with me. Yeah, it's okay. I understand it. And I understand I don't want to do it. Ronnie Raviv  16:04   Yeah. Yeah, I'm sort of I'm sure I'm right there with you. It took me longer time to understand that. Leah Jones  16:10   Yeah. That you didn't want to do it anymore. Or that or to understand it? Ronnie Raviv  16:15   Both, I guess. Yeah. Because I was in a more because they started with the short form, right, which is like the games and the, the joke Enos right. Leah Jones  16:23   The Whose Line Is It Anyway, who's that's exactly boarded for puns and jokes and dad jokes and quick thinking, right. Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  16:30   Which is what we were, which is what I was really good Leah Jones  16:33   at. Yeah. So you're still really good at? Yeah, Ronnie Raviv  16:36   I think so. I'm okay that for sure. Yeah. But you know, when it comes to like, improvising long scenes where you have to like, react and have emotions and whatever, I'm not as good as that. Leah Jones  16:51   Till we met, and then comedy ended, comedy didn't really end I got transferred to London. So I was like, and you finish conservatory. And I think by the time I was back from London, I think the tequila Roadhouse might have been closed. Ronnie Raviv  17:09   I think it was around for maybe a little longer than that. But we were but they were no longer doing the open mic. Yeah. Leah Jones  17:15   Yeah. And we ran into each other at a board game. It's a bar on Addison started with a G threes. threes. Ronnie Raviv  17:23   I have no recollection of this. You know, me. I'm, you know, me. I sort of have no recollection of things. Yeah. Leah Jones  17:30   I remember it clearly, somewhat clearly. And then I recently searched my blog to see if I had when it happened. Okay. And I reference people that I'm like, I referenced someone named Jamie. And I'm like, Who the fuck is Jamie? Jamie Allen? Probably no, no. Like I was there with my friend Jeff from high school. Were Jeff from college. Jamie might have been his girlfriend at the time. Ronnie Raviv  17:52   Oh, girl. Okay. Yeah. Leah Jones  17:55   I don't know. Like, I don't know the description of the people that I say I walked in with Oh, okay. And then you watch because I moved to London and quit comedy. And we figured out like, Oh, hey, what's up? Sell your number. And so then we went for chicken Popeye. Nice. Shortly thereafter, Ronnie Raviv  18:14   yeah. Chicken. Popeye was so good. Yeah. Last, Leah Jones  18:19   so rip jacks. Yeah. And long before they were closed. Rip the chicken pot pie. Ronnie Raviv  18:23   Right. Rip that chicken pot pie. More so than jacks. Yeah. And then the Diag. Yeah, it's Leah Jones  18:28   rip. Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  18:31   Yeah. But yeah, the chicken pot pie was gone long before that. And that was really the big tragedy of the whole thing. Leah Jones  18:39   Was the chicken potpie gone before your ability to process? Dairy? Ronnie Raviv  18:45   No, it was worth it. Ya know, my ability. My inability to process dairy disappeared before the dream pop. I did. But it was worth it. Leah Jones  18:53   Yeah. That's another conversation locked in my brain because it was so insane. Because you picked me up from the 14th station. And you pretended like I had any choice about where we were going to dinner. Right? Which was nice of you to pretend. Right? And then you said, Leah, you know, the type of chicken Popeye that you dream of? And I was like, I do not dream of chicken pie. I Ronnie Raviv  19:14   see. You remember this as dream of I feel like I wouldn't have put it that way. Maybe I did at that point. But I sort of always see it as you know, when you have a hankering for chicken, Popeye. And you sort of have in your mind's eye. What? You're sort of picturing like, Oh, I could go for that. Right? And then you order it. And it's like, oh, well, that's not really what I was picturing. Chicken Popeye, but it's not the chicken coop I had in my brain. Yes. This place had that chicken. Leah Jones  19:45   Yeah. And I was very skeptical. Of course, Ronnie Raviv  19:49   as was everybody I told this story to right there. Leah Jones  19:53   And you were of course correct because they they baked it an individual that you had a cross pinched on To the top of your bowl. Ronnie Raviv  20:01   Yeah. But it was just it wasn't it was beyond that it was I think it was like the way the sauce that like Allah King sauce or whatever it is. It's like the like just the chicken, the combination of vegetables, the proportions, the sauce, the flavor, the cross, like all of it. It was like the platonic ideal of a chicken about pie, right. And I had many a convert to that chicken. Popeye was good. It was great. And then the chef left and they could not recreate it. No. And then it just kept getting worse and worse and worse. And then they closed and it became a sports bar. Leah Jones  20:38   Yeah. And then somehow that was the last time we went I think was probably my 40th Ronnie Raviv  20:45   Yeah, I don't know what's been called for a while. Leah Jones  20:47   Yeah. But we went that's where we went after. That was where the after party was okay? Was Diag. Okay, because it was walking distance. So, according according to the pictures I have. Yeah, I don't I don't recall that either. No, I don't have a lot of memories. Right that night. Ronnie Raviv  21:07   Yeah, no, that and that was a bit of a blur. Yeah. Yeah. Leah Jones  21:12   Um, yeah. So that's the origin story. Yeah. Is comedy. And then happened to happen? Chance happenstance, happenstance. Yeah. Yeah. And people were listened to the podcast have heard about you, Matthew. David brozik. One of your good one of your best friends from college has been a guest. And people have certainly heard about you on steroids. Sunday. Steroid Saturday's one of my Mayo Clinic. Road trip buddies. Yeah, the OG hospital host the OG hospital husband. Yes. And you still probably wear your pen. That was that was really sweet. Leah Jones  22:02   So one of the things when we talked about favorite things, like what would you talk about? As favorite things first, you're like immediately I don't have anything. Ronnie Raviv  22:12   No, I still I've been racking my brains. And I have. I have no favorite things. I have a lot of things I dabble in and things I like, right. Like a lot of things. Yeah. I'm a fairly easygoing, sometimes guy. Usually going in a sort of very high maintenance way. Leah Jones  22:31   I joke last night about you being Sally Albright. But you are Sally Albright from When Harry Met Sally. I mean, I'm you are easy going in the way that Sally Albright is easygoing. Ronnie Raviv  22:42   I think maybe not quite that heightened. But yeah, there's just there's no, there's certainly some truth to that for sure. No, I'm, I like a lot of things. Yeah. I also hate a lot of things. But I like a lot of things. And I'm sort of, you know, generally fairly open to whatever. Is there a certain way Leah Jones  23:01   you'll eat almost anywhere as long as you can order around the menu. Which is true. Ronnie Raviv  23:06   Yeah. Because you're a lot of picky eater. Bit of a super taster. Yeah, not an adventurous Well, no, that's not true. I Leah Jones  23:14   don't think that's fair. Ronnie Raviv  23:15   You know, I'm an I'm adventurous. I just picky. Leah Jones  23:18   You are adventurous. If you trust the chef. Yeah, that's true. Because we could just talk about, we can even just talk about great meals we've had together. Yeah, we've had some good ones. Yeah. Because Thai zoo and Tel Aviv last year. Yep. And OCD. Yep. Are both to where it was where? You would? I mean, they both places where they took our tastes seriously? Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  23:49   Yeah. We said what we liked and didn't like whatever and pointed them in a direction, right? And they said, Okay, trust us, and they delivered. Leah Jones  24:00   Yeah. So I think if the chef can't deliver at that level, you are less adventuresome. Right, for sure. Or you will amend the menu to make something better than they have on them. And yeah, Ronnie Raviv  24:13   well, I mean, I try not to be as annoying about it as Sally. I try to, I generally try to say, just eliminate these one or two things that I don't like. And also like if there's like a thing that I have to eliminate five things. I'm not going to get that thing, right. I'm gonna just get the thing like okay, I can have this like just take out the raw onions and avocado and I'm good. Yeah, you know, just like the things I don't like. I don't try to like have them do a concoction. Except for if there's mac and cheese on the menu and there's chili on the menu. That's a thing where things have to be put together. Yeah, because that's amazing. Chili Mac is the best thing ever. And I don't know why any restaurant that has chili and then has mac and cheese does not have Have a chili Mac. Yeah, option. It's silly. Leah Jones  25:03   Yes. I do think we have to get the purchase doesn't have Mac and mac and cheese right? Ronnie Raviv  25:09   I don't believe so they have an amazing chili. Chili was so good. Chili was so good, but I did not see mac and cheese. Yeah. Leah Jones  25:16   So we'll have to get it to go and then take and then go to the mac and cheese. Max. Yeah, yeah. Be like don't worry. We have purse chilly Ronnie Raviv  25:28   we got chilly to go. Leah Jones  25:30   Yeah. Um, I don't know, do you wanna talk about with CD? We could. Or something? Ronnie Raviv  25:37   Oh, no, I could. I could. I could throw this back on you. Okay. I mean, the name of the podcast is finding favorite. Yes. So find my favorite. What's my favorite? Leah Jones  25:51   Well, your favorite liquor right now is Mezcal. True? That is? Yes. It's Mezcal number is affirm. Number one. This Ronnie Raviv  26:01   girl is affirmed. Number one, but with a huge caveat. Like the bartender was mixologist. Whatever has to be Mezcal is pickier. It's harder to blend. Okay, well, so if I don't trust the bartender, I will fall back on tequila, which is easier to deal with. But if the bartender is really good in Moscow, they can do a better job. Leah Jones  26:29   Right. So the the Mezcal meal has been your go to cocktail this summer? Ronnie Raviv  26:37   Yes. If I again, if you trust them, trust them. Otherwise, I'll go with Mexico meal because that's a lot more right. Reliable, Leah Jones  26:46   yeah. But I don't know when that because not you were never really you're not really a Gen drinker? Because that's a little too aromatic. Yeah. But for a long time, it was like vodka or rum, but like tequila, I feel like is new on like, in the last five years has gone up your list? Ronnie Raviv  27:11   Well, I think it probably was, realistically, it was there longer than that. Maybe afraid. Like I figured, because I'm like, I don't love the taste of alcohol, like vodka is my thing. And I like you know, and if you go to a bar that doesn't have anything, like you go to a like, an event, right? And all you know, they had the most basic stuff, then I'll get a vodka cranberry, right, you know, splash soda and some wine. Ronnie Raviv  27:40   But if there's a place that and then for a while, I was like, oh, but if you have ginger beer, I'll do a Moscow Mule. Yeah. And then I discovered the Mexico mule. And that is so much better than the Moscow Mule. Right. And then I was also like, at that point, I was like, But wait, but also if there's a margarita, I will go for a margarita. Yeah. And it's like, well, maybe, you know, really the only vodka drink I like is the vodka cranberry. And I like the Mexico mule as my fallback, right? You know, my my go to and I like the the the margarita, right? Maybe, maybe tequila is my favorite. And so then I'm like, You know what, maybe I want to kill a guy and I didn't know and then like, and then I discovered the Moscow Mule. And I'm like, wow, that elevates the, the Mexico mule to a whole new level. But you go to a bar that doesn't know what they're doing a Moscow Mule is gonna be hit or miss. Yeah. Leah Jones  28:33   I also I mean, mezcal has come into its own in America in the last few years. So Ronnie Raviv  28:38   it's more popular. You it was there, there were times where you there are a lot of bars that still don't have it. Yeah. Leah Jones  28:44   And they also suspect as you and your friends as like all of our paychecks have changed. And our base level to Keela has changed in our houses. Like in the I think there's like grote, we're older. We're middle age now. So we're not getting like the cheapest tequila and none of your friends have the cheapest tequila in their house and and so like I also think there's something to be said for like access to better quality. Yeah, I Yeah, that's a killer you were introduced to at 21 You probably want to drink today. Ronnie Raviv  29:25   Maybe or maybe it's about the mixers the quality of the mix. Like ginger beer just really solves a lot of problems. Yeah, alcohols in general. But also think that vodka is a much, much more consistent thing. So you know, there's bad gin and bad tequila and certainly bad Moscow. Yeah, vodka. It might be mediocre you know, but But by the same ticket there's excellent tequila is an excellent Moscow's right and excellent gins. And there's not really an excellent vodka. Maybe there's a few I have a very Leah Jones  30:00   nice vodka right now. Ronnie Raviv  30:02   Exactly a very nice vodka. Leah Jones  30:04   It's a Polish. It's the buffalograss. Polish vodka. Ronnie Raviv  30:08   Very nice vodka. It's not an excellent vibe. But it can't be excellent because there's just not enough complexity there. Right? It's like the best vodkas are the ones that taste least like anything. Right? Like the bad vodkas are the ones that like tastes a little bit like gasoline and the ones that the excellent bikers are the ones that taste less like gasoline fare, whereas tequila has the complexity of the brown liquors that I don't like right without being the brown occurs and I don't like Leah Jones  30:34   right, because the brown look, error is not on my favorites. No. Ronnie Raviv  30:40   But it's not just a bitter there's it's just that gasoline, turpentine sort of alcohol it tastes Yeah. And I don't know there's the peatiness I don't know there's something the barrel. Yeah. Because I because journeyman, we're plugging so many should get. You should get all sorts of free stuff. Leah Jones  30:57   Oh, I don't link to all of it. And they they give me nothing. Yeah. But Ronnie Raviv  31:02   journeyman, in three oaks, Michigan. They have a white whiskey Leah Jones  31:10   that's aged in glass, Ronnie Raviv  31:13   or it's not aged. They distill the whiskey but then they don't agent in the barrel, maybe a moonshine? No, it's whiskey, right? But it just doesn't have that PD. Yeah. Woody, barely taste or whatever it is that I don't like about it. That makes an excellent mule. And they also have this drink called OCG. The old country goodness, it's like an apple cinnamon, nice cider that they do either straight up or is a frozen slushy. And it's really, really good. It's good. Yeah. So with a white whiskey, that's the only whiskey to drink. Unless it's like a really, really cool, complicated, right drink where the whiskey sort of really balanced out by other stuff. Like get at the aviary. Yeah, plug plug plug. Leah Jones  32:05   Right so that the aviary and like less so the violet hour or what's the one on Damon? Ronnie Raviv  32:16   Violet hours on Damon? Oh, what's Leah Jones  32:18   the other one on Damon? closer to me? Damon on LinkedIn. Victor or Victor Victor bar? Ronnie Raviv  32:24   Yeah. Just like the sticks. Used to be Yeah. Leah Jones  32:28   So you do you also have I would say also a favorite thing of yours is a well crafted complex, very Ronnie Raviv  32:35   well crafted. Interesting cocktail. Yes, I do like that. Yeah. Oh, sorry. Yeah. Yeah. Well crafted, interesting cocktail or fantastic. In Israel. Yeah. Or bellboy? Right? In Israel in Tel Aviv, Leah Jones  32:53   Imperial. Ronnie Raviv  32:55   Imperial was good. Like Ultra. Yep. also has very good cocktails. Leah Jones  33:04   Yeah, I do Ronnie Raviv  33:05   have one Barber has good cocktails. Yep. There's another place that has had really good cocktails. I can't remember. There's a lot of places with good cocktails. Yeah. Leah Jones  33:17   So I think that is I think, like if you're in a new city, not that you go to new cities often, right? No, I don't if you are returning to a city. So like my friend Dave. He uses hardrock cafes as like, an excuse to go to a city. He collects going to them just because it gives him a reason to put a city on his itinerary. Ronnie Raviv  33:41   In and of itself, that's a terrible excuse. But if it gets you to a new city, it gets you there. But it's terrible underlying excuses. Leah Jones  33:49   Check off boxes. Yeah, right. There's a list you can check out against the list. Okay. So that is not, you know, not implying it is. So if you are returning to a city you've been to before Tel Aviv, New York. Chicago, I think you will seek out a new interest. Like you will seek out a cocktail bar. Yeah. Something to do. Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  34:16   I'm usually if I'm if I'm there on my own. No, that's not true. I'm usually there with somebody. Visiting somebody seeing somebody. Yeah. So I will get from them. What's the good? What's the good cocktail, right? So I went to business. I went on business to Copenhagen. And so I made sure that our business contacts told me where the good cocktail bar Leah Jones  34:39   right was. Yeah, yeah. So all right, so there I've already found Mezcal and fancy pants cocktail bar, Ronnie Raviv  34:51   Fancy Pants cocktail. Yes, girly drinks, girly, girly drinks. Leah Jones  34:56   I was just reading an article this morning about how sometimes men to freak out when they're served something in stemware and will like make the bartender put it in a rocks glass. Oh, my Ronnie Raviv  35:08   friend Bob hates coupe glass. Really? I don't like martini glasses because martini glasses are stupid. Because they spill everywhere. Right? But a coupe glass that doesn't spill as much as a little bit because it's up to the rim. Yeah, but no, my friend Bob hates Kool Aid. He like will reject cocktails if they come in. Like he's not if they come to him that he won't reject them. But he was like, sometimes if you if you remember his he'll say, Is that coming to coupe? Like, oh, and then I want it? Leah Jones  35:33   Yeah. I mean, I will sometimes say like, is it up or on the rocks? And I will often ask for something that's served up to be served on the rocks. Yeah. But that's because I love ice. Right? Yeah, that's a whole different thing. And not because I hate Well, it's I love ice. I will drink it way too fast and a coupe. Like if there's not ice in it. It's just might as well just be a shot. Right? So Ronnie Raviv  35:57   I don't know why I feel myself to ice. I do a good job of sipping when it's in the coupe glass. Yeah. Something about the coupe glass. Not that I love it or hate it and anything else but something about it always. Like if it's in a tall glass. I will down that like nobody's okay. Yeah, I'll go and like down. Yeah. Whereas in the coupe glass that's like, oh, it's like I can see the whole thing. And I can sort of take little, little dainty sips and none of Leah Jones  36:25   its hiding behind the ice. Right. Exactly. Exactly. And they're not served with a straw. Ronnie Raviv  36:30   Which I never use. I very rarely use. Yeah. Only if it's like, really, really like impossible. Like it's piled high with ice and other things like, like sticking out of the rim. Leah Jones  36:43   Like the so we had a drink at fantastique in Tel Aviv with Ronnie Raviv  36:48   Chuck flowers, electric flowers, look them up on Google, which are Leah Jones  36:53   I have smuggled them home. They're in my purse. Ronnie Raviv  36:57   They're crazy. Yeah. It's just this little. It's like It's like almost I don't know how to describe it. It's Leah Jones  37:07   not quite a thistle. Yeah, because it doesn't. It doesn't poke you hurt, right? It's kind of like Ronnie Raviv  37:15   it's like the dandelions like the inside of the puffball. Dandelion. Yeah, before it's opened. No, after after it's open. When you've blown all the puffs off. It's like the round ball. It's a little bit bigger. And it's a little bit fuzzy, Leah Jones  37:28   right? Oh, you know, it's kind of like a pussy willow. Like the Yeah, Ronnie Raviv  37:34   but yellow. Yeah. And you bite into it just a teeny tiny little, tiniest, tiniest amount. It's bitter, and it's not great. And it doesn't taste good. But you just the tiniest amount just a little tiny nibble, like Alison Wonderland noodling on, nibbling on it and mushroom, just the tiniest little nibble. And then for the next, depending on how big the nibble was. 1015 minutes. Your tongue feels like it's constantly licking a nine volt battery. And as you drink something, it enhances that. Yes. And it's really, really interesting and cool and different and bizarre. Yeah. And unpleasant and pleasant at the same time. Leah Jones  38:18   I think you have been telling me about it for like four years. Ronnie Raviv  38:21   Yeah. And you and you still didn't quite picture it in your head. Leah Jones  38:25   No. Even in my mouth. I did not. It was so in SAM. It was you are as giddy right now as you were in the moment. So wonderful Ronnie Raviv  38:35   to see. For the look of a horror and shock on your face of like, what is this? What am I done? What is happening to my insides in my face right now? It was so awesome. Leah Jones  38:49   It was so weird. Yeah. And then it was right like a tequila based drink with a lot of ice. Yeah, a lot of drama. Oh, yeah. Ronnie Raviv  38:57   There was a plan sticking thorns. I'm all sorts of stuff. It was. Yeah. I think the drink was called like, dangerous. Something deep something like danger in the world in the name, Leah Jones  39:06   right. But it was very, it was it was very fun. Ronnie Raviv  39:12   Yeah, yeah. It was really, really tasty drink, too. Yeah. Leah Jones  39:18   I think that was the I think you did a better job or I got whatever. Oh, might have a good and plenty, isn't it? Ronnie Raviv  39:25   Well, yeah. Because you wanted something that tasted like licorice. Leah Jones  39:29   Yeah, but it was such a literal interpretation of tastes like licorice. It was was good. And plenty is melting in the bottom of a whiskey drink Ronnie Raviv  39:37   with some bitters that you could inject with? Yeah, syringe? Yeah. Leah Jones  39:42   It was dramatic and creative, but not delicious, right. I mean, it was fine. Yeah, it was but I'll never order it again. Ronnie Raviv  39:50   No. My drink was better. But honestly, the best drink was the one that we went with the electric flower. Yeah. Leah Jones  39:59   Was very funny. It Ronnie Raviv  40:00   was just for the gimmick would be fine. But it was not just a gimmick. It was a really, really good drink. Right. Really well balanced with the gimmick. Yes. Leah Jones  40:06   Yeah. So that was that's That was great. And I had gone to loutra earlier in the weekend in Tel Aviv and had some very nice cocktails to I don't remember what they were. Because it was all tequila. Yeah. And Ronnie Raviv  40:24   very few Mexican restaurants in Israel. Yeah. A little surprising. Yeah, but I mean, just from like, the palate like you would think like spicy foods and right. Cilantro. Yeah. It's like all these things. Oh, yeah, it's all rice. You'd think that it would be really popular in Israel and for some reason. There aren't that many of them Leah Jones  40:50   for many years. When I would like check a huge bag instead of checking a small bag or three Ronnie Raviv  40:57   small bag, three medium sized. Leah Jones  41:01   Um, and I would take like my friend David, when a trash bags like Benji and tall Tali both wanted like, El Paso taco seasoning. Like my friends were like, bring me like envelopes of taco seasoning. And American trash bags. And American toothpaste. And aspirin. Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  41:24   And then what would you bring back? Israeli ketchup? And my friend who is a modern Orthodox would ask me for Doritos, because Oh, because they're kosher isn't Israel. They're kosher. Leah Jones  41:39   I I remember, early trip bringing you back like olives. Ronnie Raviv  41:44   Yes, you brought? Yeah, but now you can get them. Yeah. I still have those olives and pickles because they were the wrong ones. They're the cracked olives that are bitter, as opposed to the sort of the more the Arabic olives that are bitter as opposed to the kibbutz olives that I like, and it was the the cucumbers in vinegar instead of in Brian. Leah Jones  42:11   I still I still have entries been at minimum 10 years that I gave you those possibly longer Ronnie Raviv  42:20   I think more like eight but yes, it's been a while. During the probably not. They're not. I'm moving in six weeks or so. Leah Jones  42:28   Yeah, I will sneak in and take them and throw them out for you. You're not moving them? Ronnie Raviv  42:36   Probably not. But it's against my religion to throw food away. Leah Jones  42:40   I understand. I understand that. Ronnie Raviv  42:42   I know. I know. It's possible I gave the olives to my mom because she does like those correct olives. Yeah, but none of us like the pickles and vinegar. Brian, Leah Jones  42:52   it's also sweet of you to wait eight years to tell me that I brought you the wrong thing. Ronnie Raviv  42:57   No. It was like it was so sweet of a gesture I'm not gonna I didn't have the heart to tell you know, beggars can be choosers I don't like the free thing you got me. Leah Jones  43:09   Um, when my nephews were of a certain age, which is much younger than they are now I would bring back I would go to the shuk and Jerusalem and buy like all of the fake Kinder eggs like I would go to the Kinder Egg store that had like all the off brand unlicensed Kinder eggs Ronnie Raviv  43:30   because they were legal here for a while. They're still Leah Jones  43:31   illegal here. Ronnie Raviv  43:32   I thought they weren't I thought they just thought they figured out how to because now you can buy it now they just buy them but they suck. Right because they don't have because they they've been protected for the litigious American mark. Yes. Leah Jones  43:43   So there were times when I would like have an entire layer of Kinder eggs and bootleg Kinder eggs for the kids of Leroy, Illinois, for the O'Briens and the DeVivo is to have like a Kinder Egg Unboxing party at my sister's house. Nice. Yeah. Leah Jones  44:12   Okay, other favorite things of yours. You consume a lot of TV for someone who is not a TV critic. Ronnie Raviv  44:21   Right? I do. I used to consume a lot more admittedly. I consume less nowadays. Yeah, still consume a lot. Leah Jones  44:28   Right? For sure. When we met you had three VCRs. Correct. Ronnie Raviv  44:32   And then you worked on a client on the TiVo account and the TiVo account. And so I got a TiVo that can record six things at once. Yeah. Which I still have. Yeah. Actually, no, between those I had a DVR I had like a I had a Windows Media DVR that could record four things at once. Yeah, but the hard drives kept going out. Yeah. And then I got the TiVo. I have that to this day. But now I'm not going to have cable in my new place. Right? So I'm gonna have to figure out what's going on with that whole new era. It's a whole new era. Yeah. Because YouTube TV isn't going to quite do it for me, but I'm not sure that ATT DirecTV is going to do it for me, but like, I can get you like I can get internet for sort of free because the building has internet, but I don't know if it's reliable enough, and it won't have the 18 T. Like, I'd have to pay extra. So do I want to pay the extra it's a whole big thing that I have to Leah Jones  45:30   sort of figure out it's, it's going to be a major lifestyle, it is going to be a major lifestyle change. But how what is your origin story with TV? Like, how did you become? When did you go from one to two to three visa like when I've only ever known you as someone with a huge queue of TV to watch, but I don't know why you watch so much TV. Ronnie Raviv  45:56   I don't either. Um, because it's good escapism, I always like watching TV. Like I had a TV, I got it, I got a small little TV. Like, I don't know, like a 13 inch TV or something for my Bar Mitzvah that I had in my room. So I'd watch TV there sometimes. And then I took that to college, and then we would watch Whose Line Is It Anyway, like we'd all crammed right, and we didn't have cable, freshman and sophomore year. So I would like take speaker wire and toss them out the window, click attach to the rabbit ears in hopes of getting a decent signal on. Because that's how old we are Lea. And so yeah, so I was watched that and then and then I guess maybe after college I started recording things on on the VCR so I wouldn't like because, you know, I'm I have friends who will not have plans because they want to go do something they want to watch TV or something. So I would like record whatever because why not? And so maybe a little bit after college that started but then it really was in earnest it during business school. That's when I collected sort of like a second and maybe even my third DVR. VCR. Yeah. In business school. So I could record things but not miss out on social occasion. Right. And also, there's an additional advantage of that is because if there's an hour long show that you record, you can zip through the commercials and watch it in 45 minutes very efficient. So yeah, so I think it's, I'm all about if you if I had to pick a favorite thing would be efficiency. That's which is really the polite way of saying lazy. But yeah, so it was really the efficient thing to do. Leah Jones  47:50   Right. And when and when, like comedy so much of it wasn't right. Yeah. I mean, classes might have been during the day, but like so much of comedy was Yeah, evenings and yeah, Ronnie Raviv  48:01   so I wouldn't be never home but I wouldn't want to I wouldn't want to miss out on things. Like you know, I'm, I'm a very much a homebody, right and need an inordinate amount of me time, right? I don't like having plans day after night after night after night after night after night. Right? Even if I'm enjoying all those plans it just like I get stir crazy. I need my time. But I don't want to be the kind of person who misses out on plans with friends. Because Oh, no, I have to watch this at home. Right? That's I feel like, you know, that's You can be addicted to the thing, but not make it ruin your life. Right. So, yeah, so I just like started recording anything that was vaguely interesting. And I would watch it. Yeah. And my bar for vaguely interesting is pretty low. Right? Leah Jones  48:51   It's not reality. No, I Ronnie Raviv  48:52   don't I don't do reality TV. And I don't like shows about unpleasant people making bad decisions. Leah Jones  49:02   It's a madman. Ronnie Raviv  49:03   Yeah. Madman Breaking Bad. I watched a few episodes and like, succession. Haven't you watched that? Yes. Like at this point, I kind of know, oh, this is a show about shitty people making bad decisions, right? I'm not gonna like it. Because if it's a good person making bad decisions, okay, if it's a shitty person making good decisions, like an antihero kind of a thing. You know, like a Dexter or whatever, fine. But if it's like a crappy person who's making bad decisions and gets in trouble for their bad decisions, like I'm not gonna root for them to get out of trouble. Like you just you do this yourself. Yeah. Why do I care if you get out of it? Leah Jones  49:38   That's how I felt. I feel like I watched the pilot of girls. The TV show it was on HBO. Lena Dunham. Yeah. Adam Driver. Yeah. And I think I watched the pilot and I was like, Oh, I agree with the parents. This show is not for me because I think the parents should be kind Putting her off. And then I think that was like one of like five episodes of the whole series that I ever watched because I was like, No, I think I think she should be cut off and have to like, figure it out a little bit better. Yeah, I Ronnie Raviv  50:13   think that was on during the years that I didn't have HBO. Yeah. Because I had HBO for many years while I was, you know, when I first moved into my apartment, because for some reason, the cable company screwed up and it wasn't scrambled. Great. So I had free HBO and Showtime and then one day they caught on and they re scramble them and it's not like I could pick up the phone and call them and say Hey, how come he scrambled the free Why am I free cable that I'm not taking away? Yeah, so I you know, watch the first several seasons of sopranos and the first couple seasons of Kirby enthusiasm, and then I lost HBO so then I didn't watch those shows anymore. Well, sopranos Leah Jones  50:51   was on Sunday nights right before the tequila Roadhouse. Open Mic. So sometimes people would watch it at kill Roadhouse in the front and the bar and then go to the back for the open mic. Yeah, maybe I recorded it. Yeah. Right. You're gonna have to find a whole new system. Ronnie Raviv  51:10   Yeah, well now so they all it's streaming DVR, so you could just have hit it, but from what I read, they're not good about time shifting. Yeah, like in my current on the on the TiVo, I can say, okay, record this show, like when it supposed to be but then keep recording for another, you know, three, five minutes, another hour and a half. Like if there's a baseball game on before a football game before? And they're gonna like start it late. I can just keep recording. Yeah. But now with these online, these these streaming DVRs. You have to sort of set to record the show after it because he can't like extend the show. They don't know well enough, and but you might be able to go back and I don't know. It's a whole complicated thing. Yeah. I'm gonna have to figure out yeah. So yeah, TV is sort of a favorite. Yeah. But again, okay. I have a lot of things I like but none of these are my favorites. The the cocktails is probably the closest Yeah, but like people ask me, oh, what's your favorite show? If you watch too much TV? I don't have a favorite show. Just like I watch a lot of shows. Yeah, I don't favorite. Yeah, efficiently. I don't have a favorite though. Yeah. I have a bunch that I like. So I like more or less, where I'd be hard pressed to even say what those are. Yeah. I also like with books, I watch a TV show or a movie or a book. And I get the good feeling of it in the moment. And I appreciate it. I enjoy it in the moment, but then asked me what it was about. Right. When I'll have a tough time. Yeah. I just like it goes out of my head. I'm like, Oh, I remember I liked that book. What's it about? I don't know. What happens and I don't know. I just remember that it came away thinking it was a great book. Leah Jones  52:49   Do you ever come away thinking it's a bad book? Yeah. Okay. Ronnie Raviv  52:54   But I'll still read it. i There's only there's only, I think, two books on my list that I have started and not finished. Which are Moby Dick. And gravity's rainbow by Thomas Pynchon. Which is weird, because there was a time period where I was when every book I was really enjoying and reading. Everyone was describing it as pinching ask. And I'm like, well, it's weird that the one book that I didn't finish is by Thomas Pynchon. But all these bitchiness, yes. I liked Leah Jones  53:30   I thought you were gonna say Moby Jack, either because you have told me before or because in the airfare she is sentence to live until she finishes the most boring book in the world. Ronnie Raviv  53:46   Book airfare and I don't remember. I have no, Leah Jones  53:49   not in airfare. It's it's further along in the series. Ronnie Raviv  53:53   I've read the whole series, and I have no recollection of what you're saying. This is what I'm talking about. Right. No recollection of these things? Leah Jones  53:58   Yeah. It is. It's one of my top topics I recommend to people. Ronnie Raviv  54:06   It's a good it's a good series of books. Yeah, sure. Leah Jones  54:08   Especially if people are readers. You're rewarded for being a lifelong reader. Yeah. And in his books, yeah. Ronnie Raviv  54:16   And there's good wordplay. And there's just clever. Yeah, yeah, it's good stuff. Yeah, Jasper Ford is very good. Yeah, I'm very much looking forward to eventually reading the sequel to my favorite book of his the great. The shades of grey shades of grey. Yeah. Not to be confused with 50 Shades of Grey, right. Shades of Grey is an awesome book. Again, don't ask me what it's about because I don't remember. I just remember thinking it was an awesome book. Let me tell you what I know. I know. It's I vaguely know it's like some people can't see certain colors, but some people can see certain colors, but not all of them. But then some people can like the more of the spectrum we can see. I don't remember what it signifies. But I just remember there are people who can like see greens and People can see reds. And there's like, sort of, but I don't really remember anything beyond that. Leah Jones  55:04   The it's the caste system is based on how much how colorblind, you are right with the people with the best cut the best vision at the top, and the most limited vision or at the bottom. Ronnie Raviv  55:18   But even the best limit, even the best vision, it's like, you only see one spectrum of colors, Leah Jones  55:23   right? And it's a coming of age story because of the age 16. You take the test, right? You're allowed to live without a caste until you're 16 or whatever. And then you take the test. And it is is the protagonist, I believe is realizing that if his parents are who his parents are supposed to be, he should not be able to see what he can see. Right. So they his mom stepped out to get his to get the kid better vision of a chance of a better future. You don't remember any of that that Ronnie Raviv  56:06   part? I don't remember. Yeah, no. No, I like read the book I enjoyed in the moment. And then I just come away with a good feeling. Leah Jones  56:14   Yeah. No, I'm excited for the sequel to Yeah, yeah. Ronnie Raviv  56:20   Yeah, it was really? Yeah. Because for a long time, it looked like he wasn't gonna do the sequel because it didn't sell that well, even though it's his best book, like by far. Yeah, the goal is because all of his books are good. But that one is the best book by far. Leah Jones  56:32   I think I've heard about him a lot during this current war in Ukraine. Why is that? Because a detail you don't remember from the era fair, right, is that the Crimea, the Crimean War has been ongoing for 20 years. Okay. Everybody in the UK eventually fights in the Crimean War, and it's unending. Ronnie Raviv  56:54   Yeah. I bet you remember something about the Crimean War? Yeah. Leah Jones  56:58   And so when it when it was annexed ahead of the war, a couple years ago, I was like, this Jasper Ford, like, actually, psychic, because it was like that. There was something wild that happened with Amazon and Kindles and like the deleting of content. And, you know, you don't really own your digital content. And so it was like Crimea, digital content going away, and something else and I was just like, what is Jasper Ford on? Like, how can he, as a futurist, and a science fiction writer have such a clear vision of where things are going, Ronnie Raviv  57:43   especially since it was written in such an almost absurdist fantastical way? Like nothing here is even remotely close to reality, right? Leah Jones  57:52   Yeah, I forget what your airfare is from. Ronnie Raviv  57:59   The 80s? Maybe? Oh, no. Like when it was published, or when published? Oh, like takes place in like, what feels like the 80s? Yeah. But I think it was, yeah, I Leah Jones  58:09   think I'm looking at my early aughts. I'm looking at my bookshelves as if it's there as if I haven't loaned it out for the 50th time, right. I've given it to so many people. Ronnie Raviv  58:19   I mean, I can Oh, takes place in alternative 1985. Right. Publishing 2001 According to Google, July 19 2001. So So pre 911, but Leah Jones  58:34   yeah, a pre Kindle. Ronnie Raviv  58:38   Yeah. You know, yep. Leah Jones  58:42   Amazon was only Amazon existed. But barely, barely. And only for books. Yeah. Yeah. All right. Cocktails, efficient TV watching. chicken potpie. That doesn't exist anymore. Right. Trustworthy chefs. Yeah. So which dinner do you think was better? tysew or OCD, OCD by far? Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  59:09   I mean, he was great. But OCD was amazing. Yeah. OCD was some of the best food I've ever read. Leah Jones  59:13   I was so nervous. I got so anxious that week, leading up to it that we oversold that we had oversold it. Ronnie Raviv  59:22   No, no, no, no, I wasn't nervous about that. I knew no matter what it was going to be good and fun and an experience and interesting. Yeah. And what was all those things, but it also was delicious. Yeah. Leah Jones  59:34   It was it was just a remarkable. Yeah. And every bite with one exception was phenomenal. For me. There was just that one salad. That was a little too sour. The chard? The chard, lettuce, chard greens. Yeah. And like the lemon sauce. Ronnie Raviv  59:55   Oh, yeah. You have you have a thing with sour right now. Leah Jones  59:58   Yeah, yeah. I made a face. I made a face when I tried it and I saw the staff see me make the face. And I was like, Oh, it was like unintentional, right? Because everything had been so perfect. Yeah. And even that one I appreciated but like just my Ronnie Raviv  1:00:16   I'm just off, ya know, just hit your jaw. Yeah, sour in the sour spot. Leah Jones  1:00:20   I mean hard in the sour spot. I still am thinking about the the freeze dried parfait the cloud? Oh, yeah. Ronnie Raviv  1:00:30   Which you would think that the top layer of it would be the melty part would be the melt in your mouth part. And the bottom layer would be sort of like the, but it was the opposite for me. Like the bottom layer was the stuff that melted and disappeared in your mouth like candy. Almost. It wasn't. And the top layer was sort of like it crunched down like those like, green plant. You know, the green Styrofoam look really thick. Yeah, Styrofoam stuff. Leah Jones  1:00:57   I know. You're talking about floral, floral Styrofoam. Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  1:01:01   Yeah, so it was like it's sort of that just got dense. So I would, I was expecting that top layer to just melt away like cotton candy. But it got dense. Yeah, and really good. And the bottom stuff, which was like more ice creamy sort of that. I figured it was going to just be like sort of become liquid and it just sort of disappeared. I don't know how Yeah, that was that was really good. Leah Jones  1:01:22   Yeah. And then like cuz it started with like, that was like a celery. Grenada. Yeah, it was wild. Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  1:01:30   And the creme brulee that mean made out of potatoes. Yes. With like little potato chips on it like yeah, like shoestring potatoes, but sweet. Yeah, that was and what was the ice cream with that? Leah Jones  1:01:45   It wasn't it was non dairy. I think it was salted like a salted caramel maybe. Ronnie Raviv  1:01:50   I feel like it was also something that was savory. Yeah. Like a savory like some of you would expect to be savory but they made it a sweet Yeah, ice cream. Yeah, potatoes, but like some like not potato ice cream. But like some other kinds of something like turnips. Yeah, like something. Yeah. Leah Jones  1:02:08   And now they've already changed. We were we went for the smoke and fire menu. They're already on a new menu. And it's like, Ronnie Raviv  1:02:22   yeah, we have to we have to go back. Right. So good. It was so good. Leah Jones  1:02:25   I think Thai zoo because it was so I think Thai zoo is what unlocked for us. Like, we can have a nice time if we don't have plans. Yeah. So Thai zoo was like a friend of your cousin's got us a last minute reservation. It's hard. it hard to get reservation but not impossible. Like OCD, right? We went a year ago. And it was they interviewed us at the beginning of the meal. And we were like, Yeah, take it away. Like what they ordered for us. Yeah. And my only the only thing I told them about me was like they serve like whole fish like racinos like whole fish. And I was like, I don't face. I can't deal with a face. I'm already embarrassed thinking about how to eat that in public. Right. So like, I don't want the full fish. But other than that, like, I'll try anything. Yeah. And that was such an amazing dinner because it was just like, didn't know it. We didn't know what we were gonna do. Yeah, Ronnie Raviv  1:03:29   we didn't know what to expect. Yeah. Yeah, we were very good at the sponge. We've had incredible luck with the spontaneous. Yeah. dinners in the last few months. Yeah, for sure. Yeah, like your birthday was awesome. Leah Jones  1:03:44   We couldn't if we had planned if we had made all those reservations, it wouldn't have worked. Ronnie Raviv  1:03:48   No, we couldn't have planned that. Yeah, the one thing we did plan like we did plan Yes. But we just decided to skip it at the last minute. Yeah. And go completely plan LIS Yeah. To like the most the busiest part of town for like restaurants like where you can't get reservations for anything. No. And we just went to four different places all without reservations. And ended up being we just went from place to place to place all within like a block and a half. Yeah. Leah Jones  1:04:21   Because that's all I could do at the time right? Yeah, blind barber for drinks. Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  1:04:28   And then Duck Duck go duck duck go for a last minute dinner right Open Table reservation Yeah, yeah, that Leah Jones  1:04:34   we did make a reservation but then like literally just walked across the street. Two minutes later. Yeah, we looked Ronnie Raviv  1:04:39   looked like oh, look, they have a table. It's 15 it's six. Let's go. Yeah, we put our name down. Yep. Went Leah Jones  1:04:46   and then and before every stop. We've went to aviary and tried to get an aviary Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  1:04:54   So tried to start the evening at aviary. We were denied because it was closed for private event. Yeah. So We went to get drinks at blind Barber. Yeah. And we went to dinner. Then we tried to go back to a beer. Yeah. And we're denied again. So then we went to to get dessert. Leah Jones  1:05:08   And we said, where would you go for dessert? And they told us about rosemary. This Croatian restaurant. Yeah. It's like what do you have now been for dinner? And I have not been Yeah, Ronnie Raviv  1:05:15   it is. Really good. Yeah. Leah Jones  1:05:20   So then we just like so rosemary, also very hard to get a table at Ronnie Raviv  1:05:24   like I've looked. Yeah. And I might, it's not an easy get. Leah Jones  1:05:28   But we just waltz in. And they Ronnie Raviv  1:05:30   sat us like, at the kitchen. Yeah. Like, at the counter at the kitchen. We were the only ones and yeah, had dessert there. Leah Jones  1:05:38   So we have like three, we ordered two. And they brought us a third because it's my birthday. Yeah. So we had these amazing desserts there. Ronnie Raviv  1:05:45   And as soon as they pop them down, we get a text from the aviary saying okay, you can come over Yeah, so we just download desserts and went wander over the aviary and had a nightcap there. Yes. A really good evening. Leah Jones  1:05:57   It was a fun night. Yeah. Yeah, so we've had good luck and we had good the night before your birthday party. We went to Frasca. Ronnie Raviv  1:06:06   Yeah, fresca, fresca. Braska fresco Frasca? Yeah Leah Jones  1:06:10   oh my god, we ordered so much food we Ronnie Raviv  1:06:12   ordered so much. Leah Jones  1:06:16   Delicious. Got it got a table right before it started to rain again. Right before everybody from the patio had to come inside. Yeah. Tremendous luck. Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  1:06:28   A few other like one or two other places to that we just lucked out on. Leah Jones  1:06:32   Yeah, like we went to Tango sore after we saw Oh, yeah. Heimer. Yeah. Ronnie Raviv  1:06:35   And that's like, yeah, we're just like, hey, let's walk towards your car, and then maybe go drive somewhere. It's like, oh, or we could go into here, right. Oh, and then. Oh, and a few months before that we had we went to Barbara Roma. Yes. Where my friend is my friend's husband is the headshot. And so we went there and just like got a table there. Also not a particularly easy get that's pretty popular place. Leah Jones  1:07:01   Because it was a day after Ronnie Raviv

Vato Radio
Exploring Cultural Identity and Humor with Japanese-American Stand Up Comedian Michelle MaliZAki!

Vato Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2023 33:45


Uncover the candid and quirky world of Michelle MaliZAki, a stand-up comedian navigating the waters of cultural identity and humor. Our conversation with her is a delightful romp through her personal experiences from being a Japanese-American, having pets named after food items, and working in diverse fields like TV production and stand-up comedy. She opens up about her journey from Japan to America, her love for American television, and her surprising viral success with a song about napping. The laughter continues as we follow Michelle's career path from working as a TV production assistant in Japan to stand-up comedy. Hear about her fascinating travels with the Yankees, trying out local foods at various baseball stadiums. She shares her transition into comedy, with improv classes at the Second City and Upright Citizens Brigade, and the surprising viral success of her song about napping. Also, learn why she always stylizes her last name as MaliZAki. The conversation gets even more interesting as we explore cultural differences and misconceptions. Discover the distinct variations between different regions of Japan and how Michelle blended in when she studied Taekwondo and developed a love for sushi. She shares a hilarious account of recognizing a Japanese person from Osaka due to their loud talking, and recounts her visits to Italy, Scotland, and England. Don't miss her funny anecdote about getting paid to see male genitalia during her sports-related job, and her first attempt at stand-up comedy in 2017. Plus, you'll hear about her encounter with the Minnesota Saints mascot, Hamlet the pig. Be sure to check out Michelle on Instagram and look into Ocean Tree Creative's post-production services and podcast coaching. Michelle MaliZAki The Number One Japanese Mom, Michelle MaliZAki, came from Japan to pursue her mom's dream, to become an American housewife! Michelle MaliZAki is a musical artist and a standup comedian. Her song, Nap Time! By nap8sta is the official song for National Napping Day. She was the second place winner at Calgary FunnyFest Comedy Competition (2023) and runner up for the US Comedy Contest in 2021 and the finalist for the Clean Comedy Challenge in 2020 and 2021. Her play, “How Did You Get TO LA?”, co-written with Christine Blackburn, premiered at Hollywood Fringe 2022. Connect with Michelle MaliZAki at ⁠⁠⁠MichelleMaliZAki.com⁠⁠⁠, on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠. HIGHLIGHTS (0:00:01) - Cultural Identity and Stand-Up Comedy (0:08:56) - TV Production, Comedy, Viral Songs (0:18:18) - Misconceptions and Cultural Differences (0:32:18) - Gratitude, Support, and Promotion EPISODES (0:00:01) - Cultural Identity and Stand-Up Comedy: Michelle's experience of becoming an American citizen, her pet names, Japanese beliefs, and affinity for American TV are discussed. (0:08:56) - TV Production, Comedy, Viral Songs: Michelle travelled to Japan, visited baseball stadiums, tried local food, transitioned into stand-up comedy, and wrote a viral song about napping. (0:18:18) - Misconceptions and Cultural Differences: Michelle shared her experiences blending in in Japan, visiting Europe, stand-up comedy, and the Minnesota Saints mascot, Hamlet the pig. (0:32:18) - Gratitude, Support, and Promotion: Michelle shares her experience of forming an improv team in Chicago, exploring regional culture differences in Japan, and encourages listeners to follow her on Instagram. PAUL VATO ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paul Vato⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is an actor, improvisor, comedian, poker player, podcaster & entrepreneur. Connect with Paul Vato across all social media at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PaulVato.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SPONSORS - Check out Paul Vato's Step by Step Podcast Launch Course & Ignite Your Brand's Voice! Available at PaulVato.com - Buy The Kama Sucia aka The Filthy Bed at ⁠⁠⁠⁠VATO.tv⁠⁠⁠⁠. Thank you! - Monetize your time & knowledge w/⁠⁠⁠⁠Owwll⁠⁠⁠⁠. Enter referral code "VATO" at sign-up to get $10 to use on the app: Apple: ⁠⁠⁠⁠apple.co/35HC0hd⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Android: ⁠⁠⁠⁠bit.ly/OwwllGooglePlay⁠⁠ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/paulvato/message

Modern Exhibits: A Sketch Comedy Podcast
The Rear Wee-ndow Episode (S2 E17)

Modern Exhibits: A Sketch Comedy Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2023 25:12


The Rear Wee-ndow Episode! Listen to hear: us banking on you knowing what Rear Window is, the return of two cop characters and their car that sucks, a possible murder, a Fix it or Shit it "Where Are They Now?" segment, the guy from Jaws can't find a ride for his daughter again, a grassy knoll, a wrongful arrest, and a pissing manifesto. Plus, a special message from Tom Kippur!Written by Bo SegrestStarring: BO SEGREST as Jimmy Stewart and Officer KimballROSEMARY WEST as Grace Kelly and the 9-1-1 DispatcherMOLLY RODENBUSH as Officer Cooper and CaseyDAN KARLIN as the Third Property Brother, Quint, and Tom KippurRHETT SOSEBEE as Clyde the Nice RobberDAN RAMIREZ as Jesse the Nice Robber, the Old Man, and Bo Segrest If you like the show, help us grow! rate, review, and subscribeFollow us on instagram  @modernexhibitspodA part of the Asylum Podcast Network @asylumpodcastsYou can see the cast of Modern Exhibits perform Tuesdays at 8:00pm EST at Improv Asylum Theater in Boston: TICKETS

The SCTV Podcast with Michael Delaney
Episode 15: Jeffrey Sweet

The SCTV Podcast with Michael Delaney

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2023 52:41


Second City historian, playwright, author Jeffrey Sweet tells us about Second City Chicago, a notable SCTV cast rehearsal with Del Close, The Premise, Beyond the Fringe and the re-issue of his legendary oral history of Second City; Something Wonderful Right Away. 

Life Happens Laugh Anyway
Episode 138-Emotional Eating

Life Happens Laugh Anyway

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2023 77:16


Hey Humor Consumers, ***ATTENTION: Help spread the word to all near Holland, Michigan*** Join me for some LIVE comedy fun on Thursday, September 28, 2023. "Not Biologically Dutch" is what we are calling this 90-minute endeavor (because I married a Dutch man and Holland Michigan is crawling with Wooden Shoes. ;0). Grab tickets here: https://tracydegraaf.com/events Now, back to episode 138 on Emotional Eating... Emotional Eater Quiz and the difference between emotional hunger and physical hunger Identify triggers and causes Ways to conquer the struggle Helpful links: Shttps://www.helpguide.org/articles/diets/emotional-eating.htm Below is the link to our friend and health coach Lindy Flanigan. She is amazing! Check her out. https://lindyflanigan.com   Inspirational close: 1 Corinthians 10:31 and 1 Corinthians 10:13 (Yes, both. ;0) CTA: Memorize 1 Corinthians 10:13 and recite it when you are tempted to eat your emotions. Tracy and Cathrine ***P.S. Help us grow the podcast*** Give feedback. Let us know what topics you would like us to cover. We did a brain dump a few months ago and we were all proud of our ideas, but now we look back on some of the topics we came up with and

The Clean Comedy Podcast
EP 346: Dave Thurston - Outliers of Comedy

The Clean Comedy Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2023 43:18


This week we welcome Dave Thurston. Dave is the founder of The Outliars, a Second City-trained comedian, ASU graduate, and holds an MBA from Keller.He is the Author of, “43 titles including "The Ravish Hotel," "The Bail Bondsman" and "Jaime Bathos." His earlier works include, "AZ Essay Vol. 1-4, a collection of essays" and, "Phoenix Phiction Vol. 1-3 a collection of short stories."Dave annually produces the Arizona Standup Festival, Arizona Improv Festival, and Arizona Sketch Festival. He is a graduate of the Second City Chicago, IO Chicago and The Annoyance.Dave teaches standup, improv and sketch comedy, essay, short story and screenwriting. His favorite things is seeing his students headline the Tempe Improv.Check them out at @dave.thurstonWe now have an INSTAGRAM! Check it out at thecleancomedypodcast on Instagram and add @jdcrevistoncomedy on IG as well!Turn your funny into money! Check out the official website here: http://comedypreneur.comPick up a copy of “How To Produce Comedy Shows For Fun & Profit” here: https://amzn.to/31H4wxmDo you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed? Are you a clean comedian looking for an awesome podcast to be in? Do you have life-burning questions?Reach out to us at https://www.thecleancomedypodcast.com/contact/This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/4825680/advertisement

Medical Myths, Legends & Fairytales
Marta's story - Dangers of thyroid meds when overprescribed.

Medical Myths, Legends & Fairytales

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2023 43:58


In this episode of Medical Myths, Legends, and Fairy Tales, we have the pleasure of chatting with Marta, a behavior change facilitator who shared her journey battling hypothyroidism. The thyroid's primary purpose is to control the body's metabolic rate, which is the speedometer for energy conversion. If it goes haywire, it can affect the entire body system. We're talking about everything from sluggishness to skyrocketing energy levels. This is what exactly happened to Marta; she went through all the hallmark symptoms (breakouts, weight gain, renal change, depression, anxiety) of a person suffering from thyroid disease. While on desiccated thyroid medication, she learned through the discussion the importance of maintaining the correct medication dosage, eating healthy, and showing the body the TLC it deserves.   Marta's incredible tale and insights will have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about thyroids. There's so much misinformation about thyroid conditions that it's enough to make your head spin! Understanding the ins and outs of thyroid treatment is crucial, so let's dive right in!   Key Takeaways:   (0:00) Episode Overview (0:37) Introduction to Marta, a behavior change facilitator. (1:54) The story of Marta's journey with thyroid disease. (3:51) Diagnosis of hypothyroidism, experiencing the hallmark symptoms, and initial treatment. (5:53) The ‘Spoonie Concept' for managing energy and the body's resources. (7:18) Suffering from depression due to declining health. (8:06) Initial benefits observed from the desiccated thyroid medication. (8:52) Coping with weight gain, fluid retention, and overall electrolyte management. (10:08) Desiccated thyroid for ten years, followed by a brain injury. (10:43) Marta's growing distrust in the medical industry and the Western medicine. (13:31) Overdosing the T3 resulting in dangerously low TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). (14:38) Marta's realization leading to her tapering off desiccated thyroid. (16:13) Dr. Christianson's anecdote about a patient who experienced hyperthyroidism. (18:56) Discussion on the correct dosage for desiccated thyroid. (20:01) Dr. Christianson's interpretation of Marta's dependency on desiccated thyroid: the cycle of feeling better and raising the dose until unbearable risks manifest. (22:38) The history of testing thyroid levels. (23:44) High mortality from heart disease among people on thyroid treatment around the 1930s to 1970s. (24:53) Marta's reintegration of certain types of foods following reading Dr. Christianson's book. (27:43) The pros and cons of both basic medication and overtreatment. (28:45) The body's need for a TSH. (30:40) Taking care of your body and eating well to regain function. (32:41) Successfully deprescribing and tapering from medication. (33:54) Discussion on the T3 and T4 levels while on medication and in a healthy state. (36:48) Misconceptions on the correlation of TSH and T3 levels. (39:27) T3 levels that are continuously high as risk factors for both breast cancer and diabetes. (39:48) Impact of elevated T3 levels on renal frequency. (41:36) Relationship between the thyroid hormones, medication, and body weight. (42:42) Discussion wrap-up (43:03) Closing statement   Marta is not just your average person. She's a Spoonie, a mental health advocate, and a behavior change facilitator in employee wellness and healthcare. Marta sustained a traumatic brain injury years ago, leaving her with cognitive issues. During her recovery, she realized she was trapped in what the scientists refer to as the Intention Behavior Gap– the place between knowing what to do and actually taking action. Driven by a passion for discovering methods for bridging this gap, she embarked on a transformative journey involving the guidance of experts in the medical field. She proves that change doesn't have to be complicated or boring—it can be easy and FUN!   When Marta isn't busy discussing behavior change, you might catch her doing something silly at the Second City's amateur improv classes and hunting down the best gelato in town!   "...I had this really horrific negative experience and I still wasn't hearing them [the doctors]... and I had the same thing happen to me the following year. That's when it shook me...my mental health is more important than whatever other things I'm afraid of."   Did you find this episode helpful? Let us know by leaving a review! Visit these links to learn more: ●  https://www.drchristianson.com/ ● Dr. Christianson on Facebook ● Dr. Christianson on Instagram   Subscribe for more Medical Myths, Legends, & Fairytales: ● Apple Podcasts ● Spotify ● YouTube

Live From Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show
Get Ready For Hal Sparks

Live From Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2023 57:58


Join us for an engaging episode as we sit down with the versatile Hal Sparks. From his early start at Chicago's Second City to becoming the youngest host ever on the game show "Treasure Mall," Hal's journey is nothing short of fascinating. Get ready to hear his captivating tales from behind the scenes of VH1's "I Love..." shows and his heartwarming experiences filming "Queer as Folk." Recorded prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike.   My guest, Hal Sparks, and I discuss: Hal's role in the MCU now that Spider-Man opened up the universe. Time for "man in elevator" to shine! Hilarious Anecdotes from Hal's Lois and Clark Adventure Revealed! Hal's Rise from a 15-Year-Old Second City Prodigy! Being hired by Sian Saban as the youngest game show host ever of the game show, Treasure Mall Hal shares some of his awesome voice impersonations. Behind-the-Scenes Scoop: The Untold Stories from VH1's "I Love..." Tapings! Hal's Memorable Moments Filming Queer as Folk with Sharon Gless! Megaworld-wide and a whole lot more - buckle up! Also, check out my first chat with Hal Sparks here   You're going to love my conversation with Hal Sparks: Website: https://halsparks.com/  IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005452/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HalSparksChannel/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/Halsparks  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Halsparks/  Live stream: https://halsparks.live/  Twitch: https://t.co/NDCjOlemOu   Follow Jeff Dwoskin (host): Jeff Dwoskin on Twitter The Jeff Dwoskin Show podcast on Twitter Podcast website Podcast on Instagram Join my mailing list Buy me a coffee (support the show) Subscribe to my Youtube channel (watch Crossing the Streams!) Yes, the show used to be called Live from Detroit: The Jeff Dwoskin Show Love the books I talk about on the show? Here is my Amazon store to shop.

Life Happens Laugh Anyway
Episode 137-Women & Personal Safety

Life Happens Laugh Anyway

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2023 46:01


Hey Humor Consumers, ***ATTENTION*** Join me for some LIVE comedy fun on Thursday, September 28, 2023. "Not Biologically Dutch" is what we are calling this 90-minute endeavor (because I married a Dutch man and Holland Michigan is crawling with Wooden Shoes. ;0). Grab tickets here: https://tracydegraaf.com/events Now, back to episode 137 on Personal Safety... Ways to be safe (tips) Gadgets Stats Helpful links: Self-defense weapons for women Amber Haddock  Self-defense keychains Safety jewelry Inspirational close: Joshua 1:9, 2thes 3:3 CTA:Do something from what we said to keep yourself safe. Tracy and Cathrine ***P.S. Help us grow the podcast*** Give feedback. Let us know what topics you would like us to cover. We did a brain dump a few months ago and we were all proud of our ideas, but now we look back on some of the topics we came up with and

Reduced Shakespeare Company Podcast
TV’s Neil Flynn (Pt. 1)

Reduced Shakespeare Company Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2023 16:21


Film (Mean Girls, Magnolia) and television (Scrubs, The Middle) veteran Neil Flynn talks about the joys of meeting your heroes, including working with Dick Van Dyke twice and Harrison Ford three times in The Fugitive (below), which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, and in Shrinking. A Second City alum, Neil shares the fun of working with people you look up to, as well as the possibility of working with people who've looked up to you, and the surprising things you do and don't remember from your career. PART TWO OF THIS CONVERSATION WILL DROP NEXT WEEK! (Length 16:21)

If This Is True with Chris Hall
Merry Mary Hynes!

If This Is True with Chris Hall

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2023 28:14


I interviewed Mary Hynes on her birthday in April. She is a professional improviser, educator and stage manager. Her performance and teaching career brings her back and forth between NYC, Chicago and LA. She is a faculty member with the storied Second City Training Center in Chicago, Toronto and LA.  After graduating with her BA in Theatre from Butler University, she discovered a love for helping students young and old discover their creative voices. The power of the “yes, and” mindset in improvisation teaches presence, acceptance, courage and creativity.  She is one of the pioneers of the role of virtual stage manager. During the pandemic, she was on a team of innovators with The Second City Training Center that assessed the needs, and implemented the solutions to keep theater vital and vibrant through trying times of isolation and uncertainty. She is now both highly revered and in demand as a remote operator, virtual stage manager, and facilitator for live and online events in education, entertainment and corporate workshops.  She is an inspiration. Give it a listen!    

Laugh Tracks Legends of Comedy with Randy and Steve

Whether Tina Fey is selected to follow Lorne Michaels as SNL honcho or not, her legendary status is more than secure, including a long-running stint as SNL head writer and Weekend Update anchor. But there is so much more to Tina, including work at The Second City, starring in and producing award winning hit sitcoms (30 Rock and Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), and teaming up with Amy Poehler to make an unbeatable awards show hosting duo. Add to that a Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and shelves full of Emmy and Golden Globe awards and you've got yourself a legendary career right there! Want more Tina? Tina was SNL's first female head writer, and when she was added as Weekend Update anchor her star became even brighter. Here is some of Tina's best from the anchor desk. https://youtu.be/l3vAVhaIEIk After leaving SNL, Tina developed and starred in the hit comedy 30 Rock, about the backstage antics at a show that looked a lot like SNL. As Producer Liz Lemon, she held it all together -- plus dropped in some snarky one liners of her own. https://youtu.be/9dYW_m5I074 When Tina and Amy Poehler signed on to host the Golden Globes they were seen as a safer choice than long-time host Ricky Gervais. Ha! They threw down with the best of them -- here is some of their best.https://youtu.be/Sy6CfQCiBUk  

Modern Exhibits: A Sketch Comedy Podcast
The Hamlet Improvised Episode (S2 E16)

Modern Exhibits: A Sketch Comedy Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2023 30:12


The Hamlet (Improvised) Episode! Listen to hear Shakespeare's classic tragedy in its purest form! The cast of Modern Exhibits improvises a production of Hamlet starring Maddy Lenahan as the Danish prince. Developed by Bo Segrest With Special Guest MADDY LENAHAN as HamletAlso featuring Special Guest JONATHAN ANDERSON as Claudius THE CAST OF