Podcasts about Second City

Peter Barg has spent his life building creativity in high-pressure environments. Beginning as a messenger in New York City during the final era of physical film editing, he learned every aspect of post-production before advancing into advertising production with McCann Erickson, where he worked on major campaigns for brands including Coca-Cola, AT&T, L'Oréal, and Miller Brewing. By his mid-twenties, he was producing national campaigns and later moved to St. Louis and Hollywood, where he led animation productions and eventually founded a pioneering virtual animation studio years before remote collaboration became commonplace. Throughout his career, Peter became known for solving complex creative problems, building systems, and bringing people together to produce exceptional work. Ironically, those same instincts initially made improvisation difficult. Introduced to improv through a client, Peter struggled with the uncertainty of the form but gradually discovered its deeper lessons in listening, trust, and collaboration—skills he later recognized would have made him an even stronger producer. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Peter immersed himself in online improv training with leading teachers from around the world and found a global creative community. In response, he founded Improv Dim Sum, an online workshop series that connected improvisers across cities and countries while making high-quality training accessible and affordable. The project grew into a thriving nonprofit organization dedicated to education and community building. Peter also served as President of Compass Improv in St. Louis, helping preserve the city's vital place in improv history through its connection to Compass Players, Viola Spolin, Paul Sills, and the roots of both Second City and iO Theater. Today, Peter continues to produce workshops, coach performers, and connect improvisers with outstanding teachers. Whether in advertising, animation, or improvisation, his work has always centered on the same mission: creating environments where trust, creativity, and meaningful human connection can flourish.

Welcome to a show about death. We've got some unfinished business as Alex Garday returns (from the dead?) for an all new fully improvised musical. Crashing cars, mystical mirrors, liminal limerence, and more as we put the FUN in funeral on this week's Charm Scene! Alex Garday is a performer from Phoenix, Arizona. He has performed in Chicago for the past 16 years at all of the major comedy theaters including recently as an understudy for The Second City's Mainstage production, Don't Quit Your Daydream. He regularly can be seen performing with Baby Wine at The Annoyance, Blank! The Musical at The Revival, Phony Award Winning Musical at iO, and Baby Wants Candy at the Second City. He has worked across North America as a host/emcee/facilitator for corporate events for Fortune 500 companies. He is the Talent/Product Coordinator and Marquee Host for Game Night Out a company that provides entertainment and curated in-person game nights for clients from across the Chicagoland area. He is 6'5″ and ethnically ambiguous. You can find him on social media platforms @alexgarday. Cast: Lily Ludwig, Austin Packard, Alex Garday Music Director: Sam Scheidler Drums: Chris Ditton Charm Scene is performed entirely by humans in sunny Chicago, IL. For more on the podcast, follow us @CharmScenePod on Instagram, visit us online at charmscenepod.podbean.com, or email us at CharmScenePod@gmail.com. In listening to this show, we hope you continue to support live human art wherever you find it. Stay charming!

Communications professor Heather Barnes teaches us how to use what she learned teaching at Second City, managing the Museum of Science and Industry, and taking classes at the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science to truly engage with difficult people through the power of positive rants. Kitted Previous Episodes How Minds Change Heather Barnes Improv@Work Second City The Center for Enlightened Disagreement Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science David McRaney's Twitter David McRaney's BlueSky YANSS Twitter YANSS Facebook Newsletter Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

John Lutz is an actor, comedian, and screenwriter. He is best known for playing J. D. Lutz on the sitcom 30 Rock, and for his work as a writer on the NBC series Saturday Night Live for seven seasons. In 2014, he joined the writing staff of the NBC late-night talk show Late Night with Seth Meyers.Lutz began his professional career as a writer-performer with Chicago's ImprovOlympic and The Second City theaters. He was hired at Saturday Night Live in February 2004 after spending three years touring with Second City. We discussed life on the road and in Chicago, struggling with the Harold and succeeding with its structure, and so much more. Don't miss this one!John will be performing in 2SQUARE with Peter Grosz at Del Close Marathon (DCM) 26, Sunday, June 14, at 7:30 PM at the Theater for the New City, Stage Two. For tickets, go to https://ucbcomedy.com/dcm.This episode, like all episodes of If This Is True, brings forth what drives creatives to do what they do. For more of this content and interaction, you can also go to my substack, coolmite25.substack.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this 1911th episode of Toronto Mike'd, Mike chats with Patrick McKenna about his start at Second City, landing the role of Harold Green on The Red Green Show and Marty Stephens on Traders, winning a Gemini Award for both, and how being diagnosed with ADHD in his late-40s changed his life.Toronto Mike'd, an award-winning podcast, is proudly brought to you by Great Lakes Brewery, Palma Pasta, Toronto Maple Leafs Baseball, Ridley Funeral Home, Nick Ainis, and RecycleMyElectronics.ca.If you would like to support the show, we do have partner opportunities available. Please email Toronto Mike at mike@torontomike.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recapping the spring legislative session with Illinois Farm Bureau Director of State Legislation Chris Davis. Scot Loyd at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum's Oral History Project highlights circus history in Petersburg and The Second City in Chicago.  

Belmont Stakes 2026 next Saturday concludes the Triple Crown series as well as the race's three years at Saratoga. It is the focus of this week's Ron Flatter Racing Pod. Maggie Wolfendale-Morley of Fox Sports and the New York Racing Association checks in with early angles on some of the top choices in the Belmont, including likely favorite Renegade as well as Kentucky Derby 2026 winner Golden Tempo. She also has a snapshot of the Grade 1 Met Mile, where Nysos and Journalism are expected to start on the Belmont Stakes undercard. Case Clay of Wathnan Racing talks about Belmont Stakes contender Commandment and multimillionaire Hit Show, who races Saturday on Stephen Foster preview day at Churchill Downs. He also discusses the rapid rise of the Qatar-based operation and his own move from Three Chimneys Farm, which his family used to own. Clay even shares the story of how he tried his hand at comedy with Second City in Chicago. Super Screener creator Mike Shutty has early angles that he is pursuing for the Belmont Stakes as well as handicapping of two of the graded turf stakes on Saturday's card at Churchill Downs. Co-hosts John Cherwa of the Los Angeles Times and Keith Nelson of Fairmount Park have their popular chat segment and weigh in on listener and reader feedback from last week's interview with Brent Musburger and Chuck Todd. The Ron Flatter Racing Pod via Horse Racing Nation is available via free subscription from Apple, Firefox, iHeart and Spotify as well as HorseRacingNation.com.

Jack McBrayer (Zillow Gone Wild, 30 Rock, Wreck-It Ralph) is an Emmy-nominated actor, and comedian. Jack joins Armchair Expert to discuss growing up in a family of school teachers, finding his people in Chicago improv, and why he's wary of letting too much private silliness become public record. Jack and Dax talk about the early magic of Second City, his steel trap memory for dates and birthdays, and the wild houses and homeowners of Zillow Gone Wild. Jack explains why reading the room isn't the same as being inauthentic, how suntanning is his version of meditation in a chaotic world, and why sometimes your skin feeling tight is enough reason to leap into the next chapter.Sign up now in the app or at grubhub.com/plus/golddays to unlock exclusive Gold Days deals.Check Allstate first for a quote that could save you hundreds: https://www.allstate.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Danny Farber on Vertical Filmmaking, Platform Strategy, and the Future of Storytelling Danny Farber joins Drinking During Business Hours for a smart, energetic conversation about what it really takes to build a creative career across directing, acting, producing, and modern platform-driven storytelling. Sarah and Rich dig into Danny's rise in vertical filmmaking, his approach to respecting the platform, and why story, pacing, and audience behavior matter just as much as traditional craft. The episode also explores the balance between art and commerce, the realities of international production, and why authenticity and relationships still drive the industry forward.  As an actor, Danny has appeared in 1923, Chicago Fire, Proven Innocent, national campaigns for Chase, Home Depot, and Subway, and comedy/digital outlets including Funny or Die, Cracked, and The Onion. He trained at Second City, The Groundlings, UCB, and iO Chicago. If you're interested in vertical filmmaking, directing, acting, film production, networking, storytelling, or platform strategy, this episode is packed with useful insight from someone actively shaping the space. Guest Info: Danny Farber Danny Farber is a Chicago-born director, actor, writer, and producer based in Los Angeles. His work spans vertical dramas, music videos, commercials, branded content, and narrative film, and his projects have generated tens of millions of views across social platforms. Since 2023, he has directed more than twenty feature-length vertical dramas for platforms including ReelShort, Dramabox, Goodshort, Dramapops, and KalosTV, with productions in Los Angeles, Istanbul, London, and Vancouver. He also wrote, directed, and starred in the award-winning short film "Thoughts and Prayers," executive produced by Amy Poehler. Guest Social Links Danny Farber Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sirdannyfarber/ Website: https://www.sirdannyfarber.com/ Pretty Awesome Productions: https://www.sirdannyfarber.com/shop Thoughts and Prayers: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8uo4EOPz5v/ Drink of the Podcast This episode features two wines on the table: a 2022 Shafer TD-9 Napa Cabernet and La Fiorita Brunello. In the conversation, the hosts describe the Shafer TD-9 as iconic with a phenomenal nose and palate, and later shift from Cab to Brunello during the interview. Danny specifically joins them in drinking wine rather than a mocktail.  Chapters 00:00 Welcome back and introduction 02:45 The business of show business 05:37 Meet Danny Farber: director, actor, producer 08:32 Respecting the platform 11:12 The art of vertical storytelling 14:02 Navigating the challenges of production 16:48 Authenticity in performance 19:13 The balance of art and commerce 22:32 International productions and global filmmaking 27:25 Building relationships in the industry 32:08 The evolution of directing and storytelling 37:43 Understanding the vertical format 47:07 Leadership, collaboration, and communication on set FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS! Sarah IG @sarahhalstead https://www.instagram.com/sarahhalstead/?hl=en  FB @sarahjhalsteadcomic https://www.facebook.com/sarahjhalsteadcomic/ X @sarahjhalstead  https://twitter.com/sarahjhalstead  Website   @SarahHalstead | sarahjhalstead.com Rich IG @richchassler https://www.instagram.com/richchassler/ FB @chasslerfans https://www.facebook.com/Chasslerfans/ X @richchassler https://x.com/richchassler  Website  richardchassler.com

Brick's going into the archive tonight. Three tracks, three different moods. First up: August Heat and Tempers Rise, pulled from last preseason when the timeline was on fire over dropped passes and vanilla scheme. Brick logged the panic when it was loud. He's playing it back now that everyone who was loudest in August has gone quiet about what they said in August. Then: Second City Blues. Brick has nothing against the city of Chicago — beautiful architecture, great skyline, Lakeshore Drive is worth seeing before you die. Their football team, however, is a civic embarrassment. Their pizza is a casserole. The song documents both positions thoroughly. And finally: Green Bay Grotesque. Written in 7/8 time. Contains a brass section. Uses the phrase "diminished and strained" to describe a wide receiver's hamstring. Brick has been waiting for the right moment to air it. He decided tonight was the moment.

Brick's going into the archive tonight. Three tracks, three different moods. First up: August Heat and Tempers Rise, pulled from last preseason when the timeline was on fire over dropped passes and vanilla scheme. Brick logged the panic when it was loud. He's playing it back now that everyone who was loudest in August has gone quiet about what they said in August. Then: Second City Blues. Brick has nothing against the city of Chicago — beautiful architecture, great skyline, Lakeshore Drive is worth seeing before you die. Their football team, however, is a civic embarrassment. Their pizza is a casserole. The song documents both positions thoroughly. And finally: Green Bay Grotesque. Written in 7/8 time. Contains a brass section. Uses the phrase "diminished and strained" to describe a wide receiver's hamstring. Brick has been waiting for the right moment to air it. He decided tonight was the moment.

The KC Crew learned that The Kindness Chronicles was ranked #2 on Feedspot's “30 Best Kindness Podcasts for 2026,” THANK YOU, listeners! They quickly review the Masonic Children's Hospital gala that raised about $2.5 million, as an example of kindness through philanthropy. The episode then focuses on an extended discussion of The Blues Brothers, including Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi's origin story from Second City, the film's role in reviving and spotlighting blues musicians and Chicago culture, standout scenes and cast members (Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Cab Calloway, Ray Charles, Carrie Fisher, John Candy, Frank Oz, Steven Spielberg), and themes of redemption, loyalty, friendship, and joyful comedy through music. Check it out. 

Emmy-winning writer-producer Dick Blasucci joins Mark Malkoff to discuss a comedy career that spans Chicago's Second City, SCTV, The Tracey Ullman Show, The Larry Sanders Show, Mad TV, and Muppets Tonight. Along the way, he shares stories about John Belushi and Bill Murray, co-creating SCTV's Jackie Rogers Jr., doing punch-ups with Mel Brooks on Spaceballs, and discovering Jordan Peele and Keegan-Michael Key during his years running Mad TV.

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 journey with open heart surgery. Kelly also talks about a podcast he recorded with an education expert from England, Daisy Christodoulou, about their new book […]

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 journey with open heart surgery. Kelly also talks about a podcast he recorded with an education expert from England, Daisy Christodoulou, about their new book […]

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 journey with open heart surgery. Kelly also talks about a podcast he recorded with an education expert from England, Daisy Christodoulou, about their new book […]

Comedian Laura Ramoso delights her millions of online followers with her larger-than-life characters, such Chiara, an acerbic Italian airline check-in agent. On this episode, Dan speaks with the rising star in the midst of a global tour (her American “Calm Down” tour starts in September) to discuss how the troupe Second City changed her life, what her own parents think about becoming recurring characters of hers, what Italian audiences think about her comedy, what Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are like in person, and much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wolfie looks at the expected line-up for Semi Final 2nd leg of the Europa League against Aston Villa! Check FFTV INSTAGRAM

Episode Summary Danny is creator of The Art of First Impressions™ (TAFI) telephone skills mastery curriculum, and The Persuasion Blueprint communication skills mastery program. He is President of AIM Dental Marketing, which has helped grow dental practices since 1989. He is also Executive Director of Climb for a Cause, and is the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health's Founding Executive Committee Chair. He holds two MBAs, one from the University of Chicago's Graduate School of Business, and one from K.U.L., Belgium. Danny was certified as both a mediator and an arbitrator for the Center for Conflict Resolution and Better Business Bureau, respectively. He is a graduate of the Players Workshop (Improvisation Curriculum) of The Second City in Chicago. He is also an alpine patroller with the National Ski Patrol and instructor with the Professional Ski Instructor's Association. He has successfully summited 20 peaks on three continents, and is a staunch proponent of Patient Persistence and Respectful Resilience. Who's your ideal client and what's the biggest challenge they face? What are the common mistakes people make when trying to solve that problem? What is one valuable free action that our audience can implement that will help with that issue? What is one valuable free resource that you can direct people to that will help with that issue? What's the one question I should have asked you that would be of great value to our audience? When was the last time you experienced Goosebumps with your family and why? Get in touch with Daniel: Website, LinkedIn, Facebook Stakeholder Confidence Focus Turn board skepticism into enthusiastic alignment with the KAIROS assessment system. Book your 30-minute KAIROS Strategic Assessment (€147) and receive frameworks that build unwavering stakeholder trust in your strategic timing. Only 5 spots are available this week. https://www.uwedockhorn.com/research

Hey Streetwalkers. This is a throwback episode with actor John Kapelos, the janitor from The Breakfast Club! John first appeared on the show on 6.24.24It was such a compelling & fun episode, l decided it needed to be re-visited!Enjoy this throwback episode, tell a friend, and thanks for listening!John KapelosTake a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know John Kapelos. You may know John as 'Carl, The Janitor' from the 1984 cult classic film: The Breakfast Club; but he is so much more than that! In this episode, we chat about him spending nearly a decade with Second City, his experiences on some of the greatest John Hughes films, and even his time as 'The Sniffing Accountant' on Seinfeld. We discuss how the show must go on, even after his father unexpectedly passed. John reveals the moment he found out that Emelio Estevez was the son of Martin Sheen, stories from the set of The Breakfast Club, and his scene from Ferris Bueller's Day Off that got cut. As if all of this improv comedy and hall of fame acting isn't enough, John Kapelos also put out an album! It is called "John Kapelos: Too Hip For the Room"; and he lets me play a track from it. I think you're gonna dig it!John is a consummate professional, and he gets honest and vulnerable with me in this interview. I appreciate him for letting go, and not holding back. If you have a chance to see John in a play, or singing, or in television and film; I highly suggest you check him out. In everything he does, he BRINGS IT!

How do you find joy at work without faking positivity or losing yourself in the process? Episode Summary In this episode of the Joyosity™ Podcast, Jenn Whitmer talks with performer, teacher, and creator Tara DeFrancisco about joy at work, authenticity, leadership, creativity, trust, and self-judgment. Together, they explore how to be fully yourself at work, why presence matters, and how authenticity helps people connect more deeply in leadership, performance, and everyday life. Tara shares insights on bringing your full self to work, letting go of the need to perform for your inner critic, and learning how to enjoy the work you have already earned. Jenn and Tara also discuss improv, emotional connection, workplace joy, online identity, and what it means to lead with truth instead of control. This episode is for anyone who wants more joy in work and life without forcing positivity. If you are a leader, creative, speaker, performer, or professional trying to stay grounded, authentic, and connected, this conversation offers practical wisdom and a refreshing perspective on authentic leadership and meaningful work. In this episode, you'll learn: 03:21 What do you do with joy when energy is low, and you still have to show up. 04:52 Why presence is the reward for the work you have already done. 07:43 How trust is built through modeling rather than controlling in leadership, improv, and creative work. 12:18 What happens when people realize they are actually allowed to enjoy the way they work. 17:33 What it means to be the same person everywhere you go, and why authenticity creates deeper connection. Key takeaway: Joy at work grows when you stop performing for your inner evaluator and become present enough to enjoy the work you have already done. About Tara DeFranciscoTara is a globally respected improviser, educator, speaker, and comedic performer known for her powerful blend of humor, connection, and authenticity. She has performed more than 8,000 shows on renowned stages, including iO Chicago, The Second City, and ComedySportz, and is especially known for HERE: The (Improvised) Musical, her acclaimed two-person show performed in 24 countries and more than 90 cities. Tara is also the Co-Founder and Artistic Director of The Nest Theatre in Columbus, Ohio, and a sought-after teacher whose work has taken her around the world. Most recently, she began serving as a facilitator and artistic liaison for Cirque du Soleil. Through speaking, teaching, and performance, Tara helps people and organizations unlock more play, presence, trust, and connection. taradefrancisco.com/ Tara's Socials:Instagram: instagram.com/taradefranciscoTikTok: tiktok.com/@taradefrancisco About the Host: Jenn Whitmer Jenn is an international keynote speaker, leadership consultant, and the founder of Joyosity™, helping leaders create positive, profitable cultures through connection, curiosity, and joy. With a background in communication, conflict resolution, and team dynamics, Jenn helps leaders and organizations navigate complex people challenges, reduce burnout, and build flourishing workplaces. Her insights have resonated with audiences worldwide, blending real-world leadership expertise, engaging storytelling, and a dash of humor to make the hard stuff easier. Whether on stage, in workshops, or with coaching clients, Jenn equips leaders with the tools they need to solve conflict, cultivate communication, and lead with purpose. Her book Joyosity and the Joyosity Works Playbooks offer leaders a fresh approach to joy at work that builds real results. jennwhitmer.com Jenn's Socials: Instagram: Instagraminstagram.com/jenn_whitmer LinkedIn: Linkedinlinkedin.com/in/jennwhitmer Podcast edited by Katey Perkins, Midsouth Story Co Resources & Links: Ready to stop over-functioning and start leading with more clarity, intention, and joy? There is a program for you. Join the waitlist here: jennwhitmer.com/waitlist Get Joyosity and the Joyosity Works Playbook Joyosity: How to Cultivate Intense Happiness in Work & Life (Even If Things Are What They Are) Joy isn't extra. Joy is how you thrive. This book gives leaders the tools to turn exhaustion into resilience and build cultures where work is a joy, people are whole, and organizations flourish. Joyosity Works Playbook: Practical Plays and Strategies for Joy at Work and Beyond is the official companion workbook to Joyosity to help you practice joy every day. Find direct links to purchase at your favorite booksellers at https://jennwhitmer.com/books. Free 99: Joyosity Explorer Map → This map will guide you to understanding the deeper purpose and story you tell yourself about your work. Joy is linked to purpose and productivity increases by 20% or more when you directly link your purpose to your work. Ready to Make a Plan: Joyosity™ Jumpstart → Get crystal clear on what you want, what's in the way, and how to move forward with traction. Starting the Journey: Enneagram Navigator → Stop guessing your type. In this 1:1 session, get clarity on your motivations and blind spots. Ready to Dive In: Joyosity™ Intensive → A one-day transformative experience to realign with your values and build a practical plan for joyful leadership. A Party for More: Bring Jenn & the Joy to Speak → Bring the spark (not just the spark notes!) to your whole team with contagious joy, practical tools, and plenty of laughter. Loved this episode? Rate, review, and share with a fellow leader who's ready to ditch the drama and lead with more joy, curiosity, and clarity.

John welcomes five-time Emmy-winning writer Ali Barthwell (Last Week Tonight) to ask, can writers learn to be funny? Drawing from her time as a teacher at The Second City, they look at what writers can learn from sketch and improv, and how to reliably find ways to make an audience laugh. We also celebrate the WGA membership's ratification of the 2026 MBA, the educational future of the Scriptnotes book, and answer listener questions on the first scene of a comedy and when to stop taking assistant gigs and bet on yourself. In our bonus segment for premium members, Ali shares how she built a thriving writing career without ever having to live in New York or LA. Links: Ali Barthwell Preorder Ali's new book, Reality TV for Snobs The Second City Pre-inked star stamps The Padilla Pause: How the Breakout Star of SNL Nails Comic Timing by Jason Zinoman for NYTimes Funnier by Anne Libera Get your copy of the Scriptnotes book! Get a Scriptnotes T-shirt! Check out the Inneresting Newsletter Become a Scriptnotes Premium member, or gift a subscription Subscribe to Scriptnotes on YouTube Follow Scriptnotes on Instagram and TikTok John August on Bluesky and Instagram Outro by Matt Gillespie (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Drew Marquardt and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at ask@johnaugust.com You can download the episode here.

We got to talk to satirist Caitlin Kunkel! Jason sits down with Caitlin to trace her journey from collegiate distance swimmer to satire expert. Caitlin delves into how being an athlete led her to naturally merge sports psychology concepts with creative practice. She recounts the experiences that formed her comedy brain, working in Chicago theater fundraising, training and teaching at Second City, discovering satire after her “drama” scripts kept getting laughs, how her satire curriculum developed, and shares teaching strategies for activating students. She also talks about her forthcoming book, "Inside Jokes," and how a viral McSweeney's piece became her book "New Erotica for Feminists." Her website: caitlinkunkel.com Pre Order "Inside Jokes" here: hachettebookgroup.com/titles/elissa-bassist/inside-jokes/9781538770771/ Her newsletter, Input/Output, about the creative process: inputandoutput.substack.com Her upcoming classes: writingworkshops.com/collections/creative-writing-classes-with-caitlin-kunkel Instagram: @KunkelTron, @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

Nick pays tribute to one of the most underappreciated cast members in Saturday Night Live history, the late Danitra Vance. Raised on the south side of Chicago, Vance came up through improv, earned her Master's degree, taught for a time, and eventually found her way to Second City before landing on SNL as the show's first female African American cast member. Unfortunately, she arrived during the troubled Season 11, where the writing often held her back from doing the kind of work she really wanted to showcase. Even with those limitations, her character work stood out and her writing was sharp, topical, and honest. She brought attention to the experiences of young Black women in the inner city and delivered smart satire that pushed back on stereotypes and tropes. You'll hear some of her best sketches, including multiple appearances by her unforgettable character Cabrini Green Jackson, along with stories about her life, her career, and her passing in 1994 after a battle with breast cancer. It's a well-earned spotlight on a performer who never got the recognition she deserved. [Ep 172]

Folks it's Holy Smokes! The comedy podcast where we sm*ke w**d and tell Bible stories.Our guest for ep 90 are the hilarious husband and wife duo of Chas Lilly and Claire Favret! Chas picks an extremely specific passage about mold laws, and we do some insane improv about a far away drill sergeant.Check out Chas' band Kid Copter (@kidcopter) and their new single "Weedtown" which dropped today 4/20/2026!and see him live at Second City's ETC show Thursdays through Sundays!In honor of our 69th episode, use promo code: NICE to get 69% off your first month on the patreon.patreon.com/holysmokespodPatreon members get exclusive monthly videos including unreleased songs, discounts on Scoochie merch, and a Cameo from Scoochie Boochie.

Folks it's Holy Smokes! The comedy podcast where we sm*ke w**d and tell Bible stories.Our guest for ep 89 are the hilarious husband and wife duo of Chas Lilly and Claire Favret! We learn about Kentucky Catholicism and Claire tells the iconic story of the Golden Calf with some former babysitter's perspective. Plus some insane improv from two of the best in Chicago.Check out Chas' band Kid Copter (@kidcopter) and their new single "Weedtown dropping 4/20"and see him live at Second City's ETC show Thursdays through Sundays!In honor of our 69th episode, use promo code: NICE to get 69% off your first month on the patreon.patreon.com/holysmokespodPatreon members get exclusive monthly videos including unreleased songs, discounts on Scoochie merch, and a Cameo from Scoochie Boochie.

There's wind, there's confusion, there's whatever the hell "blowing to my mighty wind" was supposed to mean.  Take a tour with us through construction site asbestos anxiety, chicken wing philosophy, and a string of musical puns that should legally qualify as a workplace hazard. By the time anyone remembers we're here to talk about a movie, we've already emotionally prepared ourselves for death via Google notification. Of course we're here to talk about A Mighty Wind, which is to say we immediately derail into Christopher Guest lore, Second City reverence, and the realization that folk music has apparently existed since cavemen discovered obelisks and started strumming. We latch onto Irving Steinbloom's legacy as an excuse to meet the parade of deeply strange humans in this movie: painfully awkward folk trios, aggressively wholesome cult-adjacent choir people, and Mitch, who has been chemically sanded down into a human screensaver. The music is legitimately good, which feels unfair given how much of this is people making eye contact while saying the worst possible thing. We explore porn backstories, model train lore, folk band beefs, and a superhero whose powers should not be spoken aloud in polite society. The movie itself becomes almost secondary to the experience of sitting in prolonged, deliberate discomfort while incredibly talented people commit to the bit harder than anyone reasonably should. By the end, we are left with a deep appreciation for Catherine O'Hara, a lingering fear of hotel neighbors, and the realization that folk music is just emotional damage set to three chords and eye contact you cannot escape. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0310281/

9 Year Anniversary Live Show! April 24thhttps://shorturl.at/FhzCxKnock Knock Comedy April 18th @ Second City!https://shorturl.at/dzvVoPreorder your Toronto slang merch before April 16Limited run: extragravyshow.com(01:30) Being the bigger person(11:30) Kanye & Wireless Fest(22:40) Ebro Rosenberg Laura can't get guests(34:30) Write off people if they consume certain content?(47:35) Good gyal Zoie went to Jamaica(1:02:05) Akademiks still hasn't been touched(1:19:35) Jake Paul wants to do blackface(1:44:50) Not saying no to drugs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is it like to create a Shakespeare play that's never been written—and will never be performed again? The Improvised Shakespeare Company is a long-running ensemble that performs entirely unscripted plays in the style of Shakespeare. Founded in Chicago in 2005, the company has spent two decades building a devoted following through performances in the United States and internationally. In this episode, Blaine Swen, the company's founder, and Ross Bryant discuss how their performances take shape in real time, beginning with a single audience-suggested title and unfolding into a full-length play that will never be repeated. Drawing on techniques from long-form improvisation and a deep familiarity with Shakespeare's language, structure, and themes, the ensemble creates stories that balance poetry, comedy, spontaneity, and lots of fun. They reflect on what makes Shakespeare particularly well-suited to improv, from his larger-than-life characters and emotional intensity to the flexibility of his language and cultural references. They also explore the mechanics of their process—how they listen, build on each other's ideas, and embrace mistakes as opportunities—and why committing fully to the moment often leads to the most surprising and meaningful results. From the Shakespeare Unlimited podcast. Published April 6, 2026. © Folger Shakespeare Library. All rights reserved. This episode was produced by Matt Frassica. Garland Scott is the executive producer. It was edited by Gail Kern Paster. Technical support was provided by Voice Trax West in Studio City, California. Web production was handled by Paola García Acuña. Transcripts are edited by Leonor Fernandez. Final mixing services were provided by Clean Cuts at Three Seas, Inc. Ross Bryant is a writer/performer from North Carolina. Ross is a performer on Dropout.tv and can be seen regularly at the Upright Citizen's Brigade Theater in Los Angeles. Ross also tours the country and performs monthly at The Largo in LA with The Improvised Shakespeare Company. Ross began performing in Chicago where was a member of the resident cast of The Second City Mainstage. Ross is a writer for Mystery Science Theater 3000, and has co-written original television pilots for Pop TV, Warner Bros and the Showtime network. TV credits include The Good Place (NBC), Crashing (HBO), and I Think You Should Leave (Netflix). Ross also the host of the horror/comedy/improv podcast Push the Roll with Ross Bryant. Instagram: @rossbb Blaine Swen is the creator and director of The Improvised Shakespeare Company®. He is a writer/actor based in Nashville where you can catch him in the two-person improvised musical Erica & Blaine. Blaine also performs regularly in Chicago where the Chicago Reader named him the “Best Improviser in Chicago.” His iO Chicago credits include the two-person group Blessing with Susan Messing and the one-person improvised musical BASH! Additional Chicago stage credits include Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pegasus Players Theatre, The Back Room Shakespeare Project, and The Second City. He has appeared on Dropout.tv and has developed original pilots with NBC, Universal Cable Productions, and Pop TV. You can hear him as Arnor the Warrior on the podcast Hello, from the Magic Tavern. Blaine also has a PhD in philosophy from Loyola University, Chicago. Instagram: @blaine_swen

You know a performance is iconic when a simple phrase like “Kevin!” or “Fold in the cheese, David” can immediately bring a detailed image to your mind… and a smile to your face.    Such is the case with beloved actress and comedian Catherine O'Hara,  who passed away on January 30, and to whom we pay tribute in this podcast.    What young comedian (who would go on to become famous) helped Catherine get her start at Second City? How did renowned director Tim Burton play matchmaker for Catherine on the “Beetlejuice” set? What was the actress's breakout Hollywood role, and what title did it earn her? How did Catherine create the quirky but lovable character Moira Rose, and what role did Catherine say she would most like to be remembered for?    We discuss all this and more.    Thank you to Ron for his top-of-the-episode shout-out!    How to support Scandal Water: Rate, review, and subscribe! Follow the show on your favorite app or Scandal Water Podcast YouTube channel.  Send your shoutouts to scandalwaterpodcast@gmail.com. Become a member on patreon.com/ScandalWaterPodcast or buymeacoffee.com/scandalwaterpod – which will also grant you access to fabulous bonus content! #OCanada #CatherineOHara, #SchittsCreek, #MoiraRose, #HomeAlone, and #Beetlejuice #ComedyLegend, #FoldInTheCheese, #SCTV, #Icon #ScandalWaterPodcast

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

In the dark heart of Chicago, four newly Embraced vampires—fledglings—grapple with the brutal truths of unlife. Thrust into the shadows of a centuries-old struggle for power, they must navigate the blood-soaked politics of the Camarilla, the lurking threats to their stability, and their own monstrous instincts.Each kindred brings their own past, secrets, and ambitions to the city's dangerous nighttime web. Will they survive their first nights, or succumb to their inner beast?

9 Year Anniversary Live Show! April 24th https://shorturl.at/FhzCxKnock Knock Comedy April 18th @ Second City!https://shorturl.at/dzvVoPreorder your Toronto slang merch before April 16Limited run: extragravyshow.com(01:05) Jamaica vs Congo(02:50) Cardi B concert review(12:45) Ye - Bully review(17:35) J Cole's making it worse(39:00) Tyrese vs Tank(48:05) Druski's new skit(52:20) The Junos review(57:20) Cabbie on the Street(1:05:00) Kobe Bryant stories(1:22:20) Is betting going too far? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's AUDIO ONLY show we talk about the value of anonymity, how to try and not let The Simpsons take over your life, being writers and actors, bad auditions, the value of improv, The Tracey Ullman Show, Chicago (the city), singing dancing, the thoughts behind jokes, being actors and writers, the origin of The Simpsons, how actors often know their characters better than writers, being a creative couple, improvising plays, how to not be precious about your ideas, visual art, do we need an audience, the joys of being a character actor, Krusty the Clown, John Waters, and Marlon Brando! Bio: DAN CASTELLANETA is Co-Executive Producer and four-time Emmy recipient for his work (Homer, Grandpa, Krusty, etc.) on The Simpsons. Besides acting in numerous film, TV, and theater roles, he has written for The Simpsons (WGA Nominated “Kiss Kiss Bang Bangalore”), and The Tracey Ullman Show. He performed his acclaimed one-man show WHERE DID VINCENT VAN GOGH? in LA, NYC, Chicago, Edinburgh Theatre Festival, Aspen HBO Comedy Festival. He starred as the acerbic Oscar Levant, in his play FOR PIANO AND HARPO (Garry Marshall Theater, Burbank). His play A PURPLE DAWN premiered at Geneva College and Northwestern College, Iowa, BINKY PETUNIA (Little Renegade Theatre, LA). Other plays, co-written with Deb Lacusta: THE BANANA TREE (Telluride Playwrights Festival, Adirondack Theater Festival, Bloomington Playwrights Project), FRANKENSTEIN'S DAUGHTER (Here for Now Theatre, Stratford, Ontario), FORTUNES, as well as FOOD COURT, and THE SONS OF MOTHERS. A Second City alum, Dan co-founded the improv scenario group Instant Theater Chicago and the Improv Co-op LA. He also co-wrote and co-directed the award-winning film The Long Isolation. DEB LACUSTA is a writer, improvisational actress, and video artist. She has written numerous episodes of The Simpsons (WGA Nominated “Kiss Kiss Bang Bangalore”). Co-writing with Dan Castellaneta: THE BANANA TREE (Telluride Playwrights Festival, Bloomington Playwrights Project, Adirondack Theater Festival), SHOCK & AWW (Sci-Fest LA, Outstanding Short Plays, Vol. 4), ROSEBUD and DYNAMITE SALES (UCSB, Dramatic Publishing); EARTHERS and PIECES OF EIGHT (Organic Theater/Chicago, Theatre 6470/LA), FRANKENSTEIN'S DAUGHTER (Here for Now Theatre, Stratford, Ontario), FORTUNES, and OLD MAN IN A BIG CAR (Fanatic Salon Theatre, starring Paul Dooley).  She starred in and produced Castellaneta's play FOR PIANO AND HARPO premiering at the Garry Marshall Theatre LA. She co-founded, with Castellaneta, the improv scenario group Instant Theater Chicago, and the Improv Co-op LA. She also co-wrote, co-directed and produced The Long Isolation, which has won numerous film festivals awards, and the art film Starring Marlon Brando. BGS University of Michigan, BFA Otis College of Art, MFA Art Center College of Design. Her art and video performance work has been seen in museums and art galleries here and abroad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging episode, Shai Davidai sits down with Ryan Turkienicz, co-founder of The Daily Brine, a satirical news platform often described as “the Jewish Onion,” focused on Israel and the Jewish diaspora. Ryan shares how his background in real estate investment and development, combined with years of experience in music, improv, and comedy, set the stage for launching a humor-driven advocacy project in the wake of October 7, 2023, an “activating moment” that pushed him to step up as a Jewish voice. He explains how he and his brother Eric (a practicing lawyer trained at Second City with decades of satire-writing experience) chose satire as a “force multiplier,” not to trivialize tragedy, but to expose hypocrisy and empower a community that had struggled to laugh again. Throughout the conversation, Ryan breaks down the “rules” behind The Daily Brine's content, including red lines like not punching down, avoiding hate, and satirizing actions and power rather than identity or suffering, while also sharing how the project grew quickly through community support and relatable, accessible humor. Ryan also discusses the tension of being “moderate” in a polarized era, his involvement in Israel President Herzog's Voices of the People Council (focused on Israel-diaspora relations), and the next chapter for The Daily Brine, including building a more structured writers room and expanding into YouTube. Tune in for a thoughtful look at how comedy, when done with intention, can build resilience, strengthen community, and create a shared language in difficult times.Guest: Satirist Writer Ryan TurkieniczConsider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support!https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH!SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results

Everybody clap your hands, the UBP is Happy Just To Big Dance With You! That's right: it's March Fabness once again, and that means it's time to crown the official, legally-Calderstone-sanctioned 9th Beatle Bracket, A Ron Howard Motion Picture. This year's Beatle Bracket, much like the origins of the Fab 5, begins and ends in Chicago! From the Beatles BBC sessions recorded during the WLS Barn Dance, to the infamous rooftop concert atop Second City's Pipers Alley parking lot, Chicago was the home of every significant Beatles event. Few will forget John's touching tribute to his favorite retail emporium as a young tough, “Strawberry Marshall Fields Forever”. And much as Eleanor Rigby darned her White Sox in the night while there was nobody there (“there” being a May day game at Comiskey against the Royals - NOBODY CAME), Tony, T.J. and Producer Casey face some Malort-worthy matchups, featuring 312-flavored Beatlefigures everyone absolutely knows. And while you are only waiting for this one shining moment to arise, the boys must first settle some other business on the hardwood/hard would, such as: ☘ Did Howlin' Frank Ifield invent Chicago blues?

President Trump keeps undermining his administration's own talking points about the combat operations against Iran, Israel's foreign minister threatened “elimination” to anyone selected as Iran's next supreme leader, and the CEO of McDonald's is making food influencer videos.  “Rooster” star Steve Carell stops by to help Stephen Colbert raise some cash for World Central Kitchen by auctioning off one-of-a-kind pieces of television history ahead of the series finale of The Late Show. Learn more about what's up for grabs at colbertlateshow.com/ebay. Beloved comedian and actor Steve Carell recalls his Second City pal Chris Farley as “a force of nature” and says it was impossible to succeed as his understudy, especially in scenes like Farley's signature character Matt Foley who lived “in a van down by the river.” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices